Friday, December 05, 2008

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - DECEMBER 5TH 2008*

ONI PRESS HOLIDAY SALES EXTRAVAGANZA!
Oni Press is pleased to announce a holiday exclusive through their website at www.onipress.com.

ALL VOLUME 1 GRAPHIC NOVELS REDUCED 15-25%

FREE SHIPPING ON ANY ORDER OVER $30

AND WHAT MAKES A BETTER GIFT THAN THE OFFICIAL SCOTT PILGRIM T-SHIRT? … NOTHING, THAT'S WHAT!

Sale ends December 31st and supplies are limited so be sure to get to website today! All orders are shipped via USPS, so if you want your gifts to arrive by fat-man-with-presents-day your order will need to be placed no later than 2pm PST on December 19th!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ONI PRESS!
10TH MUSE IS BACK IN ACTION, READY FOR FUTURISTIC ADVENTURES

BELLINGHAM, WASH. (December 4) – Bluewater Productions is bringing back its flagship title 10th Muse as part of the Ray Harryhausen Presents comic book line. The exciting new series, "10th Muse: 800", is scheduled for a February 2009 release.

Just as Stan Lee took on DC Comics, Wonder Woman in the “Just Imagine” titles, Ray Harryhausen Presents will be putting a whole new spin on the 10th Muse. It all begins when Lxandra witnesses the destruction of Olympus. She wakes up in the year 2907 to find herself in a whole new world with a completely different body. The world may have changed, but the pursuit of justice hasn't. Not only must the 10th Muse adjust to her life in a different time, she must also fight a new enemy with an old face. The battle for the city of Neo Ithaca begins with a bang in the first epic issue of 10th Muse 800!

"2009 is going to be the year of the 10th Muse at Bluewater," said series creator, and Bluewater publisher Darren G. Davis. "This version of the character is going to be a little darker than the traditional series, along the lines of "Blade Runner." Some of the classic characters from the original Image Comics series will be making an appearance. There is also a new ongoing series in the works that will feature the new and fully reloaded Lxandra.

The new version of 10th Muse is written by Adam David Gragg. Gragg has worked on other Ray Harryhausen Presents titles, most notably "Sinbad and the Merchant of Ages." He will be teamed with former Chaos Comics penciler Roman Morales III. Roman is best known for his work on such Chaos series as Lady Death, Evil Ernie, Lynch Mob and also the X-Men book Time Gilders for Marvel Comics. Morales' long time inker Greg Harms who has done extensive freelancing work will be working on the inks. Rounding out the team, with breathtaking watercolor paints will be colorist Martina.

"I can say with all honesty, working this version of the 10th Muse is one of the highlights of my career," said writer Adam David Gragg. "It's not often a writer gets to work on an iconic character like the 10th Muse that has so much to offer, not only in story, but also in sheer kick-ass, take no prisoners characterization."

"Working with Bluewater Productions on the 10th Muse has been living up to the challenge and interest I wanted in a book" said penciler Roman Morales III. "I have been given an opportunity to apply my talents along with a group of other amazing artists who seem to compliment each others abilities."

10th Muse has been optioned as a film with Castlebright Films who has a deal with Universal Studios. Back in 2001 when 10th Muse debuted, it was the 6th highest selling comic on the Diamond charts. To order issue #1 through Diamond use the order code: DEC083829 F: RAY HARRYHAUSEN PRESENTS: 10TH MUSE 800 #1

For more information on Bluewater Productions, visit them online at their all-new, recently redesigned Web site (http://www.bluewatercomics.com), or check them out in your local comic book shop!
12 Days of Christmas Brings Free Comic Books from Asylum Press

ASYLUM PRESS HAS ANNOUNCES AGGRESSIVE FREE COMIC PLAN

(December 4, 2008 -Los Angeles) Asylum press announced today that for the first 12 days of December everyone who signs up for their mailing list will receive three free comic books mailed to them by the end of the month. The choice of comics will be at the discretion of the publisher. All free books will be mailed out by the end of December at the latest. Fans can sign up for the newsletter by emailing aylumpress@aol.com and put Christmas Newsletter promotion in the subject line. Fans should make sure and place their mailing address in the body of the email. This offer is only good in the United States. Fans outside the US can get the free comics by paying $12.95 which covers USPS Global Express shipping.
Asylum Press CEO Frank Forte explains, “Times are tough all over right now. This is our little way of giving back. We have had great success with our releases Asylum of Horrors #1 and Steve Mannon’s The Bomb and want to say Happy Holidays!” Asylum Press will be releasing Warlash Dark Noir # 2(OCT083866))this quarter as well and information on this issue at http://www.warlash.com/ and can be found at most comic book retailers nationwide.
Fans can check out the numerous titles available at www.asylumpress.com and signing up for the newsletter will ensure the most up to date information on releases, previews and sales!

ABOUT ASYLUM PRESS
Founded in 1999 by Frank Forte, Asylum Press is a unique publishing house specializing in high profile projects from some of the industry's biggest names. Publishing superhero comics with Warlash: Zombie Mutant Genesis, continuing their tradition of horror with Undead Evil, Satan’s 3-Ring Circus of Hell, the upcoming Asylum of Horrors and Beyond Lovecraft, venturing into dark humor with Billy Boy The Sick Little Fat Kid and The Cletus and Floyd Show, Asylum Press continues to be on the cutting edge of comic and graphic novel publishing.
ALTERNA COMICS DECEMBER 2008 NEWSLETTER


UPCOMING RELEASES

FORMERA VOL. 2
$9.99 | BW | 152 pgs | ISBN 9781934985076

Written and Illustrated by ANDREW DOBSON

After recuperating from a near-fatal encounter, Darian begins a search for a mystical object which just might give him an edge in fighting against Mezteck and rescuing his kidnapped friend, Keisha. Led by a masked girl named Dee Dee, Darian must travel deep into the heart of Formera, where no one has ever come out alive. Writer/Artist Andrew Dobson takes the action and pace up a few notches with Volume Two of this imaginative ongoing series.

Want to see more? http://www.alternacomics.com/formera.htm


THE SPAGHETTI STRAND MURDER
$6.95 | BW | 72 pgs | ISBN 9781934985045

Written and Illustrated by BRET M. HERHOLZ

Lord Algernon Sloughshire has been found dead! The only clue to what caused the murder was a single strand of spaghetti found tied around his lordship's neck. Luckily there's only one person oblivious enough to "solve" this case, none other than the DETECTIVE INSPECTOR!

Want to see more? http://www.alternacomics.com/titles.htm


LATEST ALTERNA HEADLINES

HAVEN DISTRIBUTION CARRIES FULL LINE OF ALTERNA TITLES

Haven Distribution, formerly Cold Cut Distributors, has elected to carry the full line of Alterna Comics titles. Titles that are also not available through Diamond Comics Distributors, will be available through Haven. Retailers can place orders with Haven by using the following order codes:

American Terror Vol.1 - AMETT01, Birth - BIRTT01, The Chair - CHARALTT01, Confessions of a Peculiar Boy - CONFT01
Diary of the Black Widow - DIBLT01, Formera Vol. 1 - FORMT01, Jesus Hates Zombies: Those Slack Jaw Blues (First Edition) - JESHT01, Jesus Hates Zombies featuring Lincoln Hates Werewovles Vol.1 - JHZYALTT01, Morbid Myths - MOMYT01, Mr. Scootles - MRSCALTT01, Novo Vol.1 - NOVOT01, Novo Vol.2 - NOVOALTT02, Risers - RISEALTT01
The Unlikely Trio - UNLTALTB01

These books are all guaranteed in stock, meaning that when retailers place their orders they should receive them in a timely manner. This should help alleviate some of the strain caused by other distributors having items on backorder.

Retailers can visit the Haven Distribution website at www.havendistro.com for more information.


COMING TO STORES

RISERS
$12.95 | BW | 128 pgs | ISBN:9780979787478 | Diamond:AUG083685
Haven: RISEALTT01 | IN STORES 12-3-08

Written by MARTIN FISHER Artwork by KURT BELCHER

In Martin Fisher's RISERS, when people die with a secret they often come back as living corpses; in order to finally pass on they must reveal their secret. In Annette Thomas' case, she can't figure out what her secret is and why she has come back. One thing is clear though: she better find out soon, otherwise she will slowly start turning into one of the permanently undead: an animalistic, flesh eating, zombie!

Want to see more? http://www.alternacomics.com/risers.htm


NOVO VOL.2 THE PRIDE
$9.95 | BW | 88 pgs | ISBN:9781934985052 | Diamond:OCT08378
Haven: NOVOALTT02 | IN STORES 12-3-08

Written and Illustrated by MICHAEL S. BRACCO

Novo, the wasted messiah of the Aquans and the Terans, finds himself stranded on a new and foreign world, populated by a powerful feline tribe known as the Xennons. Finding an immediate connection with a species whose women and children are threatened by horrid beasts known only as The Enemy, Novo realizes that he may be able to help this world in a way he could never help his own.

Want to see more? http://www.alternacomics.com/novo.htm


IN OTHER NEWS

*WE'VE STREAMLINED OUR SITE AND MADE IT EASIER TO NAVIGATE, CHECK IT OUT FOR YOURSELF!

*NEW PAGES HAVE BEEN ADDED:
"NEWSLETTER" - TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
"DIGITAL" - WHERE YOU CAN FIND ALL OUR DIGITAL COMICS
"CONTACT" - IN CASE YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT TO SEND AN EMAIL TO YOUR FAVORITE ALTERNA CREATOR

*UPCOMING CONVENTION APPEARANCES:
http://nycip.org/bookfair/

The 21st Annual New York City Independent Publishing and Small Press Book Fair - December 6th and 7th

http://www.nycomiccon.com

New York Comic Con - February 6th, 7th, and 8th

Thursday, December 04, 2008

PRESS RELEASE - SHADOWLINE'S TED MCKEEVER LIBRARY BRINGS THE END OF DAYS WITH VOLUME THREE, METROPOL!Ted McKeever Library continues with the complete modern apocalyptic epic, METROPOL!

4 December 2008 (Berkeley, CA) - Image Comics Shadowline continues the acclaimed TED MCKEEVER LIBRARY SERIES this February with McKeever's industrial apocalypse, METROPOL!

"The continuing success of the TED MCKEEVER LIBRARY is easily one of Shadowline's proudest moments," Shadowline Publisher Jim Valentino said. "Having METROPOL join the definitive editions of TRANSIT and EDDY CURRENT is something long overdue. In fact, with Ted's large body of work both behind and before him, we're looking forward to continuing the line's tradition for a very long time to come."
In METROPOL, McKeever reinterprets the biblical apocalypse through the eyes of non-entity Jasper Notorchord as angels and demons invade the stark future industrial landscape made popular in his earlier work, TRANSIT. Like the previous volumes of the Ted McKeever Library, this volume will not only feature METROPOL and its sequel, METROPOL A.D., in their entirety, but will be loaded with never and rarely seen material.

TED MCKEEVER LIBRARY VOL. 3, METROPOL (DEC082276), a 424-page black & white hardcover for $39.99, will be in stores February 25th, 2009.

Image Comics is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Since that time, Image has gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. There are currently five partners in Image Comics (Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino), and Image is currently divided into four major houses (Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, and Image Central). Image comics and graphic novels cover nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable, offering science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor, and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. Visit www.imagecomics.com.
Ashley Eckstein brings Ahsoka Tano to life

in STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS



Standing saber-to-saber with some powerful female enemies and allies, young Padawan Ahsoka Tano features prominently in “Cloak of Darkness,” an all-new episode of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS, premiering at 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, Dec. 5, on Cartoon Network.



In “Cloak of Darkness,” Ahsoka and Jedi Master Luminara escort captured Viceroy Nute Gunray to trial, unaware that Count Dooku has dispatched his lithe and deadly assassin Asajj Ventress to free the prisoner and eliminate the Jedi.



A veteran of hit live-action films and TV shows such as Sydney White, Blue Collar TV, That’s So Raven and Drake & Josh, Eckstein is a relative newcomer to voiceover work, but she has enthusiastically embraced the craft – as well as her role within the Star Wars galaxy.



“It’s such a fun line of work because you really get to tap into your imagination,” Eckstein says. “The action is in your mind and it has to come through your voice, so you have to envision everything. I have to think, ‘How would I sound if I were fighting Ventress right now? How would I sound if I were picked up by a giant bird, flown across the room, and dropped on the floor?’ It’s like imagination boot camp when you go into a session with (supervising director) Dave Filoni and the rest of the cast.”



While the role-play offers the opportunity to stretch her imagination, Eckstein admits that acting from a recording studio has its difficulties, as well, particularly in a project as epic in scale as STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS.



“The physical sounds are hardest because, well, you don’t think about these things in everyday life,” Eckstein says. “We talk all the time, so the dialogue is easy compared to figuring out what sound you’d make if you got hit by a lightsaber or fell out of a spaceship. I definitely have to get physical in the booth, and I probably look like the biggest nerd in there, using a pencil as a lightsaber. I really try to get into it, and it just helps to sound like you’re in the heat of battle.”



Ultimately, though, it is the character’s coming-of-age experience that helps to ground Eckstein’s performance. Despite her planet-spanning adventures, Ahsoka remains relatable thanks to her universal foibles and fumbles.



“Ahsoka’s emotions are very raw, and kids and teens can look at what she’s going through and really understand it,” Eckstein says. “Even though they’re not fighting in life-or-death battles, they may be dealing with bullies or trying to make the sports team or trying to impress a teacher. All of those situations easily mirror her emotions. That’s one of my favorite things about Ahsoka – while her experiences may be different, the personalities and the emotions are the same for everyone.”
CARTOONISTS BLOG AT NBM
NBM Publishing’s website to host Rick Geary, Ted Rall, and more


NBM Publishing -- home of bestselling graphic novelists such as Rick
Geary (A TREASURY OF VICTORIAN MURDER), Ted Rall (SILK ROAD TO RUIN),
and Lewis Trondheim (DUNGEON) -- has just started a blog by many of
its star cartoonists. The bloggers will include Geary, Rall, Neil
Kleid (BROWNSVILLE), Dirk Schwieger (MORESUKINE), Naomi Nowak (UNHOLY
KINSHIP), Jesse Lonergan (FLOWER AND FADE), and David Axe (WAR FIX).



The blog, at http://nbmpub.com/blog/, contains fresh comics and
commentary from the artists. In addition, the blog will replace
NBM’s present news page (http://www.nbmpub.com/news/latestnews.html)
and will announce NBM publications, author appearances, and other news.



"I'd like to think that for the first time anywhere we really are
creating a community with this blog instead of just the editors
informing their readers,” says NBM publisher Terry Nantier. “Each
artist has direct access to posting entries on this blog. You can RSS
a specific artist and talk with one or with all and the artists
between themselves as if on a panel at a con! Our readers will be
able to see snippets of our authors' new works as they're coming
along. This is the true NBM community coming to our site, and I'm
quite excited about it!"



The new works that the artists and writers are previewing on the blog
include:

• TO THE HEIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN AGE, Jesse Lonergan’s memoir of
life in the bizarre dictatorship of Turkmenistan.

• Naomi Nowak’s eerie graphic novel GRAYLIGHT.

• Neil Kleid and artist Nicolas Cinquegrani’s THE BIG KAHN. Kleid
says, “It’s the story of what happens when a New Jersey rabbi dies
and at the funeral, his family and congregation of forty years
discover that he’s been conning them: he isn’t even Jewish.”



Blogging is nothing new to NBM. The company has published
collections of comics blogs such as Trondheim’s LITTLE NOTHINGS and
Schwieger’s MORESUKINE. NBM has even run selections from these
blogs on its website.



The new blog is part of a tradition of innovation dating back to
1976, when NBM (under the name Flying Buttress) became the first
American house to publish an ongoing line of graphic novels. Visit
the company’s website for more news about the remarkable
publications that NBM will present in 2009 and beyond.



SEE PREVIEWS AND MORE AT WWW.NBMPUBLISHING.COM
For more information and to interact with us, visit our MySpace page,
www.myspace.com/nbm_publishing.
IDW’S FIRST EVER

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE,

DECEMBER 6, 10 AM – 3 PM

REMINDER!





(San Diego, December 3, 2008) IDW Publishing is holding its first ever sale of comic books and graphic novels at its San Diego headquarters on Saturday, December 6, 10 am – 3 pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for comic book collectors to scoop up some real bargains and hunt down some rare titles they may have missed, including some limited editions and signed copies – all at bargain prices. There will be surprises and giveaways with every purchase.


A number of comic book creators will be on hand offering free autographs of their work, including Ben Templesmith (Wormwood, 30 Days of Night), Chris Ryall (Clive Barker’s The Great and Secret Show, Zombies vs. Robots), and Chris Mowry (Transformers).



The sale gives IDW a chance to thank fans for their continued support and for helping with the company’s phenomenal growth over the past few years. IDW was recently ranked No. 4 comic book publisher in the United States by Diamond Comic Distributors.



The sale is primarily intended to free up space in IDW’s warehouse for the company’s expanded and exciting line up of titles in 2009.



“Our warehouse manager is literally buried,” says IDW’s Chief Operating Officer, Greg Goldstein. “After 10 years of publishing, it’s only natural that the boxes have piled up because of accidental print overruns, books that were set aside as office copies, books intended for reviewers and others earmarked for promotional purposes. Time to get them out of here.”



The sale will be held in IDW’s parking lot, 5080 Santa Fe St, San Diego, CA 92109.



IDW is offering new comics for $1 each (Reg. $3.99 cover). Titles include — subject to availability — 30 Days of Night, Transformers, Star Trek, Wormwood, Spike, Fallen Angel, Dr. Who, Scarface, Gene Simmons, Metal Gear Solid, Clive Barker, Zombies vs. Robots, and CSI.

Trade paperbacks / collections will be $5 each (Reg. $19.95-$24.95 each).


Other books, comics and magazines will be up to 80% OFF cover price.


Most items are brand new; some with nicks and dings.


There will also be some limited edition and signed editions TBD, along with special surprises.


For example:

· Signed and numbered, limited edition copies of Clive Barker’s Thief of Always (hardcover) only $10!

· Limited edition Zombies vs. Robots Bertie statue regularly priced at $350 will be reduced to $250.



(All prices are in effect day of sale only and are not applicable online.)

Giveaways with every purchase.

Cash or major credit cards accepted; no checks.



About IDW Publishing

IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. As a leader in the horror, action, and sci-fi genres, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry including: television's #1 prime time series CBS’ CSI: Crime Scene Investigation; Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; Hasbro's The Transformers, and the BBC's Doctor Who. IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. In April 2008, IDW released Michael Recycle, the first title from its new children’s book imprint, Worthwhile Books. More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com.
DEVIL’S DUE PUBLISHING’S PJ BICKETT TO EXIT AS CEO


Josh Blaylock to Assume Interim Role as CEO



CHICAGO, IL (December 02, 2008) – Devil’s Due Publishing today announced that PJ Bickett will exit his CEO position effective December 1st. In the interim, President Josh Blaylock will take over the familiar role. The move comes after Blaylock’s exit from Kunoichi, Inc., the creative services firm launched in 2005, to focus squarely on DDP.



Bickett, who began working with DDP over three years ago as an executive consultant advising on corporate realignment and development, has served as chief executive officer for the past 14 months. During his tenure as CEO, Bickett focused on diversifying the core business and streamlining operations, cutting overhead, production costs and increasing DDP’s marketing presence. Most notable was his role in opening DDP’s LA office in 2007, which has been instrumental in the expansion of co-development projects.



“I have really enjoyed being a part of the DDP family for the past several years, and now it is time for me to move on to new challenges,” commented Bickett. “It was an honor working with such talented people, and I look forward to watching the company evolve.”



“Coming from a strategic planning background, PJ was able to bring a fresh set of eyes to Devil’s Due,” said DDP President Josh Blaylock, “It has given us a unique perspective on the industry and where it’s going in years to come, and helped better prepare us for that.”



Bickett will remain on as an interim consultant for DDP during the transition. For more information visit www.devilsdue.net.



About Devil’s Due Publishing
Proliferators of comics culture, DDP is one of the largest and most established comic book publishers in North America, carrying a diverse line-up of original, creator-owned and licensed properties. With offices in Los Angeles and Chicago DDP has many projects in development for film and television with major studios including 20th Century Fox, ABC Family, and Rogue Pictures. DDP's titles include Drafted, Lost Squad, Sheena, Dungeons & Dragons, DemonWars, Voltron, Rest, Serpo and the cult-favorite Hack/Slash. The company recently launched a line of innovative designer toys and life accessories under the imprint DDPOP, found in specialty stores this summer.
UCLICK® and IDW Bring Clive Barker’s Horror Fable

The Thief of Always to iPhone





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Kansas City, MO (December 2, 2008) – UCLICK®, America’s #1 provider of comics on mobile phones, has added the graphic novel version of Clive Barker’s The Thief of Always to its rapidly growing line of comic book titles optimized for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Like the children lured to Mister Hood’s Holiday House in the novel, once fans begin reading this engrossing tale, presented in vibrant color and rich detail on their iPhone screens, they too will find it impossible to leave.



Creator of the well-known horror films Hellraiser, Nightbreed and Lord of Illusions, and author of more than a dozen horror novels and short story collections, Clive Barker has long been considered a master of the horror genre. Barker originally published The Thief of Always in 1992 as a fable for young readers. The novel was serialized as a graphic novel in 2005 by IDW Publishing, with story adaptation by Kris Oprisko and art by Gabriel Hernandez. All three installments of The Thief of Always are now available on the iPhone App Store for only 99 cents each.



“We feel very fortunate to once again be working with IDW and now Clive Barker,” said Uclick CEO Douglas Edwards. “Mr. Barker is a legend and literary genius. We are honored to bring his masterpiece to millions of fans on the iPhone through the Uclick graphic story player.”



“The Thief of Always graphic novel is based on one of Clive Barker's most popular stories,” IDW’s CEO Ted Adams said. “We’re very excited that this critically acclaimed title is now available for readers to download on the iPhone through the App Store. This is a great new way for fans to experience some of the best work in comics.”



The Thief of Always is the tale of Harvey Swick, an average boy bored with school until he receives a visit from an otherworldly stranger. Mister Rictus invites Harvey to Mr. Hood’s Holiday House, a child’s paradise where, Rictus declares, Harvey will find everything his heart desires. The Holiday House proves to be all Rictus promised, but Harvey soon discovers that its pleasures come at a heavy price.



Uclick continues to add to its already diverse collection of popular graphic novels and webcomics available on the iPhone App Store. IDW Publishing’s adaptation of the beloved Clive Barker fable joins Jeff Smith’s Bone, the cosmic sci-fi superhero series GODLAND, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles anthology series Tales of the TMNT, and webcomics Pibgorn and Basic Instructions.



To learn more about The Thief of Always and other iPhone releases from Uclick, visit the Uclick section in the App store. Visit

http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?id=289273526



About UCLICK:
UCLICK® is a leading digital entertainment provider of comic strips, manga, graphic novels, editorial cartoons, and other content for desktop web and mobile phones. Uclick is also the leading creator and distributor of crosswords, and other word and number puzzles. Partners featuring Uclick content include the leading consumer portals Yahoo!, MSNBC.com, New York Times, washingtonpost.com, CNN, USA Today, and AOL. Uclick features include the top brand franchises Garfield, Doonesbury, Calvin and Hobbes, Paul Frank, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, TOKYOPOP, USA Today, Pat Sajak, Wyland, and many more. Uclick creative content and services are available through the GoComics.com website, U.S. mobile phone operators, the iTunes App Store, and other distributors worldwide. UCLICK, LLC is a division of Andrews McMeel Universal, the leading newspaper syndicate and publisher of humor books and calendars in North America.



About IDW Publishing:

IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, Calif. As a leader in the horror, action, and sci-fi genres, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry including: television's #1 prime time series CBS' CSI: Crime Scene Investigation; Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; Hasbro's The Transformers, and the BBC's Doctor Who. IDW's original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. In April 2008, IDW released Michael Recycle, the first title from its new children's book imprint, Worthwhile Books.



More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com
ASYLUM PRESS HAS ANNOUNCED AGGRESSIVE FREE COMIC PLAN

12 Days of Christmas Brings Free Comic Books from Asylum Press



(December 2, 2008 -Los Angeles) Asylum Press announced today that for the first 12 days of December everyone who signs up for their mailing list will receive three free comic books mailed to them by the end of the month. The choice of comics will be at the discretion of the publisher. All free books will be mailed out by the end of December at the latest. Fans can sign up for the newsletter by emailing asylumpress@aol.com and put Christmas Newsletter promotion in the subject line. Participants should make sure and place their mailing address in the body of the email. This offer is only good in the United States. Fans outside the US can get the free comics by paying $12.95 which covers USPS Global Express shipping.



Asylum Press CEO Frank Forte explains, “Times are tough all over right now. This is our little way of giving back. We have had great success with our releases Asylum of Horrors #1 and Steve Mannon’s The Bomb and want to say Happy Holidays!” Asylum Press will be releasing Warlash Dark Noir # 2(OCT083866))this quarter as well and information on this issue at http://www.warlash.com/ and can be found at most comic book retailers nationwide.



Fans can check out the numerous titles available at www.asylumpress.com and signing up for the newsletter will ensure the most up to date information on releases, previews and sales!



ABOUT ASYLUM PRESS

Founded in 1999 by Frank Forte, Asylum Press is a unique publishing house specializing in high profile projects from some of the industry's biggest names. Publishing superhero comics with Warlash: Zombie Mutant Genesis, continuing their tradition of horror with Undead Evil, Satan’s 3-Ring Circus of Hell, the upcoming Asylum of Horrors and Beyond Lovecraft, venturing into dark humor with Billy Boy The Sick Little Fat Kid and The Cletus and Floyd Show, Asylum Press continues to be on the cutting edge of comic and graphic novel publishing.

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Acclaimed animation-and-comics writer Paul Dini (the “Justice League,” “Superman,” “Batman” animated series) amps up the action for Jedi heroines Luminara Unduli and Ahsoka Tano in “Cloak of Darkness,” an all-new episode of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS, premiering at 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, Dec. 5, on Cartoon Network.



In “Cloak of Darkness,” Ahsoka and Jedi Master Luminara escort captured Viceroy Nute Gunray to trial – but they’re unaware that Count Dooku has dispatched his deadly assassin Asajj Ventress to free the prisoner and eliminate the Jedi.



Supervising director Dave Filoni, who also directed “Cloak of Darkness,” and story editor Henry Gilroy have made concerted efforts to grow the series’ expansive universe of characters throughout the first season. When the focus turned to the strong female fighters of the Star Wars galaxy – both heroes and villains – they felt writer Paul Dini was a perfect choice to create the scenario.



Dini’s work in animation and comic books have built him a strong following among enthusiasts, and he is noted for creating stunning, memorable female characters. Dini, who has taken time away from the animation realm to be a story editor on ABC’s “Lost,” said he didn’t hesitate to take the assignment from Lucasfilm Animation.



“It was interesting to take Ahsoka, who plays by her own rules, and put her under the tutelage of a more established Jedi,” Dini says. “She can’t get around Luminara the way she plays with Anakin and Obi-Wan. It’s not just their generational difference, it’s a difference in methods – Luminara is very much by the book, and expects any padawan to follow the rules. Ahsoka grabs a lightsaber and runs into battle, whereas Luminara wants to take a moment and assess the situation through her mastery of the Force. Throw in the wildcard of Ventress and you’ve got a very interesting mix.”



Filoni says the Star Wars galaxy is filled with compelling female characters, but many of them have not had major roles – so far. “This series gives us an opportunity to use them in a much larger capacity,” he says. “In this episode, the focus is on how Luminara, an old-school Jedi master, would work with a young padawan like Ahsoka. Putting Luminara and Ahsoka together offers a real contrast in learning for both characters.”



In both comics and action-driven animation, Dini says, a preponderance of male characters provides a challenge to develop their underappreciated female counterparts with equal complexity and motivations.



“A lot of times, female characters – particularly the villains – come off as very one-dimensional,” Dini says. “They get the short shrift in that they’re only given the snappy comeback, or they’re relegated to a very stereotypical role. I want to know what’s driving them – that’s what’s really interesting. If you can find that human moment, then attach a human element of motivation, the character becomes more relatable and, even if she’s a villain, more sympathetic.”



But Dini says viewers won’t find much sympathy for Ventress – and not because she lacks crystal clear motives.



“Ventress has a savage desire to prove herself,” he explains. “She really wants to be the next Sith Lord, and she’ll do anything to achieve her goal. She’s as ruthless, cunning and merciless as any character in the series, and that intense, loose rage makes her a wild card. When she unleashes it, she becomes a berserker. When she fights, she’s like a snake, almost reptilian in some ways. If she kept her rage in check, she might win. But she gives in to that rage, and that is her undoing, her weakness.”
Radical Publishing gets hit by SHRAPNEL





December 1st, 2008 - Radical Publishing is proud to announce its most ambitious publishing commitment to date, the 18-issue, three-series epic SHRAPNEL. Radical will promote the first five-issue saga, SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING, by offering the debut 48-page double issue for only $1.99. Subsequent issues will run 28 pages at $2.99.



SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING, created by Mark Long (president of Zombie Studios) and Nick Sagan (Everfree), unfolds in a dystopian future in which imperialism has laid siege to the Solar System and Venus stands as the last free colony of humanity. Caught in the middle of this interplanetary war is Samantha “Sam” Vijaya, a soldier in self-imposed exile recovering from her service in the military. When the battle once again crashes into Sam’s life, she must choose to either remain on the sidelines and watch a colony destroyed, or risk her physical and psychological well-being to intervene. The first story arc revolves around Venus, while the second arc rages across Mars and the final climax carries over onto Earth itself.



The trilogy itself draws directly from the sagas of Greek tragedy, with planetary colonies standing in for the ancient city-states and phalanxes of mech-clad soldiers in place of history's legendary warriors. Like the classic Greek tragedies, the story confronts themes of personal hubris, destiny and consequences, all backdropped by the canvas of a vast human struggle.



“It’s a story about choices,” says Radical President and Publisher Barry Levine. “When Mark first brought the project to my attention, of course I marveled at the beautiful artwork and the grandeur of his vision, but what compelled me to publish SHRAPNEL was the journey of Sam through all three stories, and the impact of the choices she must make. Deciding to support a planned trilogy was a large commitment on our part, but Mark and Nick’s powerful imagination and creative dedication far outweighed the risks. I’m happy to be a part of Sam, her world, and this provocative, exciting and challenging narrative.”



SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING #1 is showcased in the NOVEMBER 2008 Diamond Previews catalogue and will ship in January 2009 with four covers: one by Clint Langley for cover A (NOV084236), one by Bruno Werneck for cover B (NOV084237), one by Kai for cover C (NOV084238) and one by Gerhard Mozsi for cover D (NOV084239).



Fans are encouraged to visit the Radical Publishing website at www.radicalcomics.com for more information.





About Radical Publishing



Radical Publishing is founded by BARRY LEVINE (Producer for Universal Studios, Spyglass Entertainment, Film 44, and Radical Pictures’ HERCULES, Lion Rock Productions, Infinitum Nihil and Radical Pictures’ CALIBER, and Bad Hat Harry Productions and Radical Pictures’ FREEDOM FORMULA. Executive Producer for the in development Warner Brothers’ REX MUNDI movie, written by JIM UHLS, starring JOHNNY DEPP), his protégé JESSE BERGER (Executive Producer of HERCULES, CALIBER and FREEDOM FORMULA), and longtime writer/publisher DAVID ELLIOTT (Atomeka Press and Tundra Publishing).



Radical Publishing is bringing the best in writing, storytelling and fully-painted cover and interior artwork to the global comic book market by prominent international talents such as YOSHITAKA AMANO, JOHN BOLTON, LUIS ROYO, JIM STERANKO, WARREN ELLIS, ARTHUR SUYDAM, STEVE NILES, IAN EDGINTON, STEVE MOORE, SAM SARKAR, STJEPAN SEJIC, DAVE WILKINS, STEVE PUGH, TOMM COKER, CLAYTON CRAIN, BILL SIENKIEWICZ, NICK SAGAN, CLINT LANGLEY, PATRICK REILLY, WETA WORKSHOP, ZOMBIE STUDIOS and many more.



www.radicalcomics.com
ANGORA NAPKIN’ GOES TO PRINT AND SMALL SCREEN IN 2009

New Graphic Novel from IDW Publishing Being Animated for Teletoon Canada





(San Diego, CA and Prince Edward Island, Canada, December 1, 2008) IDW Publishing will release the new graphic novel by Troy Little entitled Angora Napkin in January 2009. An animated pilot of Angora Napkin is also in production and set to air on Teletoon, Canada in March 2009.



Angora Napkin is an adult comedy about a pop music trio of girls who constantly find themselves mired in the horrible and confronted with the macabre. Unable to recognize the dark side of any situation, they always seem to come out on top (with the help of their impromptu peppy songs).



The book is written and drawn by Angora Napkin co-creator Troy Little as a break between volumes of his noir drama graphic novel Chiaroscuro, also published by IDW. A Limited Edition Preview comic was sent to retailers in August through Diamond and was also handed out at the IDW booth at last years San Diego Comic Con and SPX show in Washington.



TELETOON, in a Canada wide search for new and original adult animation ideas, selected Angora Napkin to be developed as an animated pilot. “The idea of Angora Napkin was originally developed by Nick Cross and me as an animated series so it’s really interesting to see the project come full circle” says Little. “We’ve teamed up with Mugisha Enterprises to produce the cartoon. Both Nick and I are putting many hours into the cartoon and are involved in all aspects of production to ensure the unique look of the show remains fresh and creator driven”.



Troy believes the timing of the book and cartoon will do much to compliment one another and help draw attention to the product. “Angora Napkin is one of those quirky little concepts that could potentially draw a cult status. It’s very subversive humor coupled with a healthy dose of sex and violence”.



For more information on Angora Napkin visit www.angoranapkin.com



Angora Napkin graphic novel synopsis:

Halloween is upon us! Historically this ancient event has been identified as the day in which the boundary between the living and the dead becomes unstable. It is on this fateful night that we find Beatrice, Molly, and Mallory, the pop music group known as Angora Napkin, running behind schedule for their performance at the big Halloween bash. Taking a short cut on a dark, twisting mountain road, the girls cross paths with one of the wandering dead. Undaunted by such an unusual encounter, they offer him a lift to a secret underground party. It is here that they are introduced to a lonely, misunderstood zombie boy named Dennis who they unwittingly convince to eradicate life on Earth in order to keep the party of the undead going for all eternity! Will Angora Napkin be able to set right the horror they've unleashed upon humanity and still make the show on time, or will we all become worm food in the wake of the zombie apocalypse?



Hardcover: 152 pages, ISBN 978-1600103391, Retail: $19.99 US



About IDW:
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, Calif. As a leader in the horror, action, and sci-fi genres, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry including: television's #1 prime time series CBS' CSI: Crime Scene Investigation; Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; Hasbro's The Transformers, and the BBC's Doctor Who. IDW's original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. In April 2008, IDW released Michael Recycle, the first title from its new children's book imprint, Worthwhile Books. More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com
CBS'S GHOST WHISPERER COMES TO ITUNES AS

DIGITAL COMIC FOR IPHONE AND IPOD TOUCH





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



(San Diego, December 1, 2008) IDW Publishing and iVerse Media are proud to announce the immediate availability of Ghost Whisperer: The Haunted #1 in the iTunes App Store. This five-issue comic book miniseries, licensed from CBS Consumer Products, is based on the hit CBS series starring Jennifer Love Hewitt as Melinda Gordon, the medium who helps ghosts cross over. "Ghost Whisperer: The Haunted" is written by Carrie Smith and Becca Smith, who are both writers on the CBS series, and features art by Elena Casagrande.

The story in the comic fits in between Seasons 2 and 3 of the show, and follows Melinda as she spends her days and nights helping earthbound spirits cross over into the Light. In the comic series, however, Melinda gets more than she bargained for when she comes face-to-face with Osiris, Egyptian God of the Dead, who wants the souls for himself.

The comic follows the same format as the show, with a ghost that needs to cross over in each issue. Unlike the show, however, another ghost - Osiris - appears in each issue, tying the miniseries together and keeping the tension on the rise from one issue to the next.

The digital version of the comic was adapted to the iPhone and iPod touch by iVerse Media. A new issue of the series will be released every few weeks until all 5 issues of the series have been adapted digitally.

“Many fans of the Ghost Whisperer TV show may not even realize that the comic book exists so this presents an excellent opportunity to reach out to both existing and new readers. The digital format is a no-brainer for this type of content,” IDW’s CEO Ted Adams said.



"We're very excited to be making Ghost Whisperer available to iPhone and iPod Touch owners," said Michael Murphey, owner of iVerse Media. "IDW has created a fantastic comic book that is true to the television series, and a great gateway into digital comic books for new readers of the format."

"Ghost Whisperer: The Haunted #1" is available in the iTunes App Store now for $0.99:
http://www.apple.com/iphone/appstore/



Ghost Whisperer airs Fridays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.



About IDW Publishing

IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. As a leader in the horror, action, and sci-fi genres, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry including: television's #1 prime time series CBS’ CSI: Crime Scene Investigation; Paramount's Star Trek; Fox's Angel; Hasbro's The Transformers, and the BBC's Doctor Who. IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. In April 2008, IDW released Michael Recycle, the first title from its new children’s book imprint, Worthwhile Books. More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com.




About IVERSE Media
iVERSE MEDIA is a leading provider of digital comics for mobile devices from top industry publishers and creators. iVerse currently offers digital comic solutions for APPLE'S IPHONE and IPOD TOUCH, and will be releasing comics for GOOGLE'S ANDROID PLATFORM in early 2009. More information about the company can be found at www.iversecomics.com
PRESS RELEASE, for immediate distribution

Studio 407's Shadow Chronicles: A Horror Anthology

November 24, 2008 - On shelves in January 2009, Studio 407 presents Shadow Chronicles, a bloodcurdling collection of all-new horror tales! A bloodthirsty vampire plagues 18th Century Europe - and a modern-day movie theater. In the farthest reaches of space, the crew of a research vessel is absconded by the military for a mission to a desolate planet of pure terror. And a small town is beset both by demons and the elite paramilitary squad tasked with destroying them! But which force is scarier? Find out in Shadow Chronicles, Studio 407's first ever anthology book, which affords readers a sneak peak at their most terrifying new comics!

ComicMonsters.com says "Studio 407’s first ever anthology delivers a taste of the bloody good time that lies ahead. Studio 407 will be a force to reckon with for quite some time."

"Netherworld was one of those ideas that sort of took me over creatively. One of those ideas that got its hooks in and wouldn't let go until it was finished." Says Netherworld writer Chad Jones. " I hate to say it wrote itself, because I definitely remember hitting keys."

"I've spent most of my professional life working in movies and TV. It's been great having the opportunity to take what I've learned about how to be scary on screen and expand that into the realm of the graphic novel." Says Demon Squad writer Neil Marshall Stevens.

Robert Heske and Diego Yapura are the writer/artist team on Night Projectionist. Chad Jones and R.B. Silva on Netherworld and Neil Marshall Stevens and Rafael Ortiz are the team on Demon Squad.

Pre-order now! Shadow Chronicles is scheduled to be in stores on January 21, 2009.
Full Color 32 pages $3.99 DCD item # NOV084263
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook.

About Studio 407

Studio 407 brings together the imagination and creative talents of writers and artists from North America and Asia to generate a flow of distinct and kinetic East-meets-West entertainment. A writer driven studio that blends innovation with tradition, Studio 407 is dedicated to publishing the highest quality in comics and manga, across a wide variety of genres. From capes to kung fu, giant robots to vampires, and secret agents to mad scientists; at Studio 407, we sweat the details.

PRESS RELEASE, for immediate distribution

STUDIO 407 UNLEASHES GOLEM

November 17. 2008 - This January, Studio 407 unleashes Golem, an all-new kind of anti-hero, where magic and might combine into an unstoppable force. Brilliantly illustrated by Mark Louie Vuycankiat and written by Scott Barkman and Jeff Lee. Studio 407 is known for their critically acclaimed comic series Night and Fog, and Hybrid, which has been optioned for a feature film with Myriad Pictures (Jeepers Creepers)

"Golem is a blend of Frankenstein and Hellboy, laced with a bit of humor and social commentary" says Golem writer Jeff Lee." Golem is definitely a take-no-prisoners kind of character with a black-and-white/Punisher-like attitude toward stomping on evil."

Ain't It Cool News says "Golem is another winner from Studio 407"

Golem is described as: When the Balkan conflict tears Sarajevo apart, Srdjan Zivojin, a professor of occult studies, creates a golem of immeasurable power to protect the cities inhabitants from persecution. But the novice magician soon discovers that creating a golem is one thing, but wielding one is another thing altogether. The creature not only has a mind of its own, it intends to crush evil, no matter what the consequences are or the collateral damage that results. Armed with a hair trigger temper, Golem is ready to blaze a path of retribution and destruction.

Pre-order now! Golem is scheduled to be in stores on January 28, 2009.
Full Color 32 pages $3.99 one-shot DCD item # NOV084262.
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook.

About Studio 407

Studio 407 brings together the imagination and creative talents of writers and artists from North America and Asia to generate a flow of distinct and kinetic East-meets-West entertainment. A writer driven studio that blends innovation with tradition, Studio 407 is dedicated to publishing the highest quality in comics and manga, across a wide variety of genres. From capes to kung fu, giant robots to vampires, and secret agents to mad scientists; at Studio 407, we sweat the details.