Kyle Baker Teams Up with Webcarzz
to Drive Original Comic Series
Acclaimed Cartoonist to Bring the Webcarzz World to Life
Las Vegas, Kids@Play Summit at CES, January 8, 2009 – Webcarzz, Inc., the company developing the upcoming virtual world targeted towards boys and their affinity for cars and racing, today announced it has entered into a partnership with world-renowned cartoonist Kyle Baker. Baker will develop a comic book series based on the signature Webcarzz world, an isometric playground populated by original cars that kids are creating. The announcement was made in a press conference today as part of the Kids@Play Summit at CES.
"The world of cars and racing – from a kids perspective – is something that I am very interested in exploring," remarked Baker. "As both a father and an artist, I can appreciate the imaginative design of the Webcarzz world with its bold shapes and colors. It is the perfect setting for a new comic book."
"Comic books and graphic novels are increasingly used to fuel new brands and intellectual properties in the video game space – and our relationship with Kyle is sure to spark the interest of consumers all around the world," said Nique Fajors, Executive Vice President, Webcarzz Inc. "Kyle's talent, combined with his exceptional sense of humor, will no doubt deliver an outstanding comic book that captures the vision and quality of the Webcarzz world and further entertains our consumers."
An accomplished cartoonist, comic book writer, animator and artist, Baker has authored thirteen graphic novels, including You are Here, Why I Hate Saturn and King David. He was a writer and artist on Disney's PHINEAS AND FERB, and penned two Plastic Man books for Vertigo/DC Comics and Nat Turner, Cartoonist Volume 1 & 2 and The Bakers collection.
Baker is world recognized and the recipient of eight Eisner Awards, including four wins in the "Best writer/Artist: Humor" category. Baker has also won five Harvey Awards, several Glyph Comics Awards and three awards for his comic series Nat Turner (Best Cover, Best Artist, and Story of the Year); in 2007, he won Best Artist for The Bakers.
In addition to his comic work, Kyle Baker cartoons have been published in The New Yorker, The New York Times, Vibe, Esquire, BusinessWeek, Rolling Stone, The Village Voice and many other magazines, newspapers and books. His work in animation has appeared on MTV and he contributed to the Shrek and Looney Tunes movies.
Webcarzz is an integrated game experience that combines the depth of a massively multiplayer online game (MMO) and the competition of circuit track racing in a casual environment where all roads lead to fun. Webcarzz' environment is comprised of shapes and structures that are constructed in real-time 3D as the players explore and interact through the game's cities. The game is currently in closed beta. For more information on the closed beta test, email info@webcarzz.com.
About Webcarzz, Inc.
Webcarzz™ (www.webcarzz.com) is the next evolution in casual massively multiplayer online games. Targeted towards boys ages 6-12, Webcarzz offers the competition of circuit track racing in a casual environment where all roads lead to fun. Webcarzz.com is a COPPA-compliant site (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act) and offers safe chat services. The company is funded by Meakem Becker Venture Capital (www.mbvc.com). Webcarzz was formed in 2007 and is based in San Rafael, CA. To learn more about Webcarzz, visit us at www.webcarzz.com.
About Kids@Play
Kids@Play Summit is a conference and exhibition held at CES in Las Vegas that explores how kids, from toddler to teen, play, learn, communicate and entertain themselves in the digital world. For more information visit http://www.kidsatplaysummit.com
Friday, January 09, 2009
Thursday, January 08, 2009
WILLIAM SHATNER PRESENTS JOINS FREE COMIC BOOK DAY
The “William Shatner Presents” comic series at Bluewater Productions will blast off with a special one-shot collectors edition in honor of FREE COMIC BOOK DAY this spring.
On May 2nd, Free Comic Book Day the annual promotion sponsored by Diamond Distributors where participating comic book shops around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their stores.
Bluewater Productions and iconic actor/novelist William Shatner are providing a free 32 pages comic specifically for the occasion. The highlight of the book will be an original story prologue from the upcoming Tek War series.
This 12-page prequel takes place 4 years before the initial storyline. The story centers on protagonist Jake Cardigan’s arrest and conviction for murder as well as Tek trafficking. The story also leaves several clues as to important plot points that will happen in the series. We get an insiders look at the Tek War universe and the history behind Jake’s troubled past.
The book will also feature a previews of the other Shatner-based comic series Quest for Tomorrow and Man O' War as well as a sneak peek of the yet-untitled original story developed by Shatner.
We are also please to announce the writing/art teams of the different series. William Shatner will be producing and editing each of the series with Craig Nevius. On top of these three series, Shatner will be debuting the forth series in this one-shot. It will be a brand new creation for both Shatner and Bluewater.
THE TEK WAR CHRONICLES
ARTIST: Erich Owens (Star Trek)
WRITER: Scott Davis (Ray Harryhausen: 20 Million Miles More, War of the Elementals)
SYNOPSIS:
Tek War, William Shatner’s detective noir science fiction novel serves as the foundation of this new comic book series. Set in the 22nd century, the storyline will loosely follow the original tale set out in the first novel of the series. Jake Cardigan is a police officer wrongly convicted of a crime and suddenly released from prison to find an enigmatic scientist involved in the drug trade. He does this on behalf of a mysterious benefactor.
Fans of the novel series will recognize many familiar characters and get introduced to a new rouges gallery of players. It will be a rollercoaster of plot twists and turns as we get closer and closer to the ultimate secret of the digital drug called Tek.
QUEST FOR TOMORROW
ARTIST: James R. Howard
WRITER: David McIntee (novelist: Star Trek & Dr Who.
Comic books: Ray Harryhausen’s: Jason and the Argonauts
SYNOPSIS:
This story will work as both a new interpretation of the “Quest For Tomorrow” trilogy, and as an extension. It's not going to be a radical remake such as the new Battlestar Galactica, but more of a back-to-the-basics reinvigoration. The book will feature the character of Jim, who has become a fan favorite. The fast-paced, action-oriented plot is steeped in matters of family and identity, and will focus on issues social relevance tackling the demonization of youth.
MAN O’ WAR
ARTIST: Patrick Broderick (DC Comics artist – Firestorm/ Green Lantern)
WRITER: C.J. Henderson (novelist Man O’ War & Jack Hagee : comics: The Phantom & Kolchak)
SYNOPSIS:
In the near future, the population of the Earth has lumbered past the ten billion mark. Most of the planet's natural resources are dwindling or gone. The only thing keeping the ever-increasing masses of Earth alive are the vast food vats of Mars and the mining operations of the asteroid belts. But, the promised rewards for those who thirty years previous went to the stars to save humanity have never materialized. Instead of a new world to homestead, the colonists have been turned into virtual slaves by Red Planet, Inc., the corporation granted the charter to develop Mars.
Now, cheated, lied to, with no hope in sight, the Martian colony has begun to boil with talk of strikes and revolution. A stop in production would mean riots and chaos on Earth, billions dead in a matter of weeks. It would mean war, plague and famine at levels never before known. Into this most explosive political situation is thrust Benton Hawkes, the most trusted diplomatic negotiator alive. All sides agree, he the only man to be trusted to avert a catastrophe which could bring destruction to the entire solar system.
But, bitter reasons of his own, Hawkes wants nothing to do with Mars. And, on top of that, there are those who don't want to see the situation calmed, and who will do nothing to stop Hawkes from interfering with their plans.
The comic is now available for order through Diamond Distributors, order code JAN090019. To find out more information about Free Comic Book Day go to www.freecomicbookday.com.
About Bluewater Productions:
Bluewater Productions, Inc., is one of the top independent production studios of comic books, young adult books and graphic novels. Its extensive catalog of titles includes the bestsellers 10th MUSE, VSS and THE LEGEND OF ISIS. Bluewater publishes comic books with legendary filmmaker Ray Harryhausen and soon will launch a series in conjunction with sci-fi icon William Shatner. Bluewater aims to unite cutting-edge art and engaging stories produced by its stable of the publishing industry's top artists and writers. For more information, visit www.bluewateprod.com.
The “William Shatner Presents” comic series at Bluewater Productions will blast off with a special one-shot collectors edition in honor of FREE COMIC BOOK DAY this spring.
On May 2nd, Free Comic Book Day the annual promotion sponsored by Diamond Distributors where participating comic book shops around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their stores.
Bluewater Productions and iconic actor/novelist William Shatner are providing a free 32 pages comic specifically for the occasion. The highlight of the book will be an original story prologue from the upcoming Tek War series.
This 12-page prequel takes place 4 years before the initial storyline. The story centers on protagonist Jake Cardigan’s arrest and conviction for murder as well as Tek trafficking. The story also leaves several clues as to important plot points that will happen in the series. We get an insiders look at the Tek War universe and the history behind Jake’s troubled past.
The book will also feature a previews of the other Shatner-based comic series Quest for Tomorrow and Man O' War as well as a sneak peek of the yet-untitled original story developed by Shatner.
We are also please to announce the writing/art teams of the different series. William Shatner will be producing and editing each of the series with Craig Nevius. On top of these three series, Shatner will be debuting the forth series in this one-shot. It will be a brand new creation for both Shatner and Bluewater.
THE TEK WAR CHRONICLES
ARTIST: Erich Owens (Star Trek)
WRITER: Scott Davis (Ray Harryhausen: 20 Million Miles More, War of the Elementals)
SYNOPSIS:
Tek War, William Shatner’s detective noir science fiction novel serves as the foundation of this new comic book series. Set in the 22nd century, the storyline will loosely follow the original tale set out in the first novel of the series. Jake Cardigan is a police officer wrongly convicted of a crime and suddenly released from prison to find an enigmatic scientist involved in the drug trade. He does this on behalf of a mysterious benefactor.
Fans of the novel series will recognize many familiar characters and get introduced to a new rouges gallery of players. It will be a rollercoaster of plot twists and turns as we get closer and closer to the ultimate secret of the digital drug called Tek.
QUEST FOR TOMORROW
ARTIST: James R. Howard
WRITER: David McIntee (novelist: Star Trek & Dr Who.
Comic books: Ray Harryhausen’s: Jason and the Argonauts
SYNOPSIS:
This story will work as both a new interpretation of the “Quest For Tomorrow” trilogy, and as an extension. It's not going to be a radical remake such as the new Battlestar Galactica, but more of a back-to-the-basics reinvigoration. The book will feature the character of Jim, who has become a fan favorite. The fast-paced, action-oriented plot is steeped in matters of family and identity, and will focus on issues social relevance tackling the demonization of youth.
MAN O’ WAR
ARTIST: Patrick Broderick (DC Comics artist – Firestorm/ Green Lantern)
WRITER: C.J. Henderson (novelist Man O’ War & Jack Hagee : comics: The Phantom & Kolchak)
SYNOPSIS:
In the near future, the population of the Earth has lumbered past the ten billion mark. Most of the planet's natural resources are dwindling or gone. The only thing keeping the ever-increasing masses of Earth alive are the vast food vats of Mars and the mining operations of the asteroid belts. But, the promised rewards for those who thirty years previous went to the stars to save humanity have never materialized. Instead of a new world to homestead, the colonists have been turned into virtual slaves by Red Planet, Inc., the corporation granted the charter to develop Mars.
Now, cheated, lied to, with no hope in sight, the Martian colony has begun to boil with talk of strikes and revolution. A stop in production would mean riots and chaos on Earth, billions dead in a matter of weeks. It would mean war, plague and famine at levels never before known. Into this most explosive political situation is thrust Benton Hawkes, the most trusted diplomatic negotiator alive. All sides agree, he the only man to be trusted to avert a catastrophe which could bring destruction to the entire solar system.
But, bitter reasons of his own, Hawkes wants nothing to do with Mars. And, on top of that, there are those who don't want to see the situation calmed, and who will do nothing to stop Hawkes from interfering with their plans.
The comic is now available for order through Diamond Distributors, order code JAN090019. To find out more information about Free Comic Book Day go to www.freecomicbookday.com.
About Bluewater Productions:
Bluewater Productions, Inc., is one of the top independent production studios of comic books, young adult books and graphic novels. Its extensive catalog of titles includes the bestsellers 10th MUSE, VSS and THE LEGEND OF ISIS. Bluewater publishes comic books with legendary filmmaker Ray Harryhausen and soon will launch a series in conjunction with sci-fi icon William Shatner. Bluewater aims to unite cutting-edge art and engaging stories produced by its stable of the publishing industry's top artists and writers. For more information, visit www.bluewateprod.com.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
ASYLUM PRESS EXTENDS AGGRESSIVE FREE COMIC PLAN
(Jan. 7, 2008 -Los Angeles) Asylum Press announced they will extend their free comic book gift plan. From now until Jan. 31 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 January at the latest. Fans can sign up for the newsletter by emailing asylumpress@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 New Year!” 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.
(Jan. 7, 2008 -Los Angeles) Asylum Press announced they will extend their free comic book gift plan. From now until Jan. 31 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 January at the latest. Fans can sign up for the newsletter by emailing asylumpress@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 New Year!” 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.
JOE HILL’S SMASH-HIT LOCKE & KEY SERIES CONTINUES
WITH LOCKE & KEY: HEAD GAMES #1
(San Diego, CA; January 7, 2009) – In 2008, award-winning novelist Joe Hill launched his first-ever comic book series, Locke & Key. The first volume of this acclaimed series, Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft, was recently collected in a hardcover volume. And now Hill and artist Gabriel Rodriguez are set to release the first chapter of the book’s highly anticipated follow-up, Locke & Key: Head Games, in January 2009.
When Locke & Key debuted in early 2008, it was met with critical acclaim: IGN.com said "Locke & Key is a breath of fresh air in the comic book industry. A modern suspense thriller meets something more wondrous and magical;” Wizard magazine wrote "solid pacing and plot twists, combined with Rodriguez’s clean lines and detail pencils, make Locke & Key a lock for best horror book of the week” and the Detroit Metro Times said the book "stands apart from the rest of the cookie-cutter comics on display these days."
Further, it was optioned by Dimension Films, and Hill’s work on the series was recently awarded with the Wizard Magazine Best Horror Writer 2008 honors.
Locke & Key tells of the Locke family, who relocate after an unspeakable tragedy to Keyhouse, an unlikely New England mansion, with fantastic doors that transform all who dare to walk through them... and home to a hate-filled and relentless creature that will not rest until it forces open the most terrible door of them all.
In Locke & Key: Head Games features the stunning art of Gabriel Rodriguez. Following a shocking death that dredges up memories of their father's murder, Kinsey and Tyler Locke are thrown into choppy emotional waters, and turn to their new friend, Zack Wells, for support. However, the Locke family has no idea that Zack Wells hides a dire secret that tracks back to their father and Keyhouse, a secret Zack is willing to protect at any cost.
Locke & Key: Head Games #1 (Diamond Order Code NOV08 4115), a 32-page comic book, will be in stores in January 2009.
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.
About Joe Hill: Recently awarded Best Horror Writer for Locke & Key from Diamond Comic Distributors. As a novelist, Joe Hill has received the Bram Stoker Award for Best Fiction Collection and Best First Novel, the British Fantasy Award for Best Collection and Best Short Story, and the Sydney J. Bounds Best Newcomer Award.
WITH LOCKE & KEY: HEAD GAMES #1
(San Diego, CA; January 7, 2009) – In 2008, award-winning novelist Joe Hill launched his first-ever comic book series, Locke & Key. The first volume of this acclaimed series, Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft, was recently collected in a hardcover volume. And now Hill and artist Gabriel Rodriguez are set to release the first chapter of the book’s highly anticipated follow-up, Locke & Key: Head Games, in January 2009.
When Locke & Key debuted in early 2008, it was met with critical acclaim: IGN.com said "Locke & Key is a breath of fresh air in the comic book industry. A modern suspense thriller meets something more wondrous and magical;” Wizard magazine wrote "solid pacing and plot twists, combined with Rodriguez’s clean lines and detail pencils, make Locke & Key a lock for best horror book of the week” and the Detroit Metro Times said the book "stands apart from the rest of the cookie-cutter comics on display these days."
Further, it was optioned by Dimension Films, and Hill’s work on the series was recently awarded with the Wizard Magazine Best Horror Writer 2008 honors.
Locke & Key tells of the Locke family, who relocate after an unspeakable tragedy to Keyhouse, an unlikely New England mansion, with fantastic doors that transform all who dare to walk through them... and home to a hate-filled and relentless creature that will not rest until it forces open the most terrible door of them all.
In Locke & Key: Head Games features the stunning art of Gabriel Rodriguez. Following a shocking death that dredges up memories of their father's murder, Kinsey and Tyler Locke are thrown into choppy emotional waters, and turn to their new friend, Zack Wells, for support. However, the Locke family has no idea that Zack Wells hides a dire secret that tracks back to their father and Keyhouse, a secret Zack is willing to protect at any cost.
Locke & Key: Head Games #1 (Diamond Order Code NOV08 4115), a 32-page comic book, will be in stores in January 2009.
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.
About Joe Hill: Recently awarded Best Horror Writer for Locke & Key from Diamond Comic Distributors. As a novelist, Joe Hill has received the Bram Stoker Award for Best Fiction Collection and Best First Novel, the British Fantasy Award for Best Collection and Best Short Story, and the Sydney J. Bounds Best Newcomer Award.
PRESS RELEASE, for immediate distribution
Studio 407 Inks Publishing Deal with Argentina's Altercomics
January 5, 2009 - Studio 407 is excited to announce a deal with Argentina's Altercomics for distribution in North America. The four titles Studio 407 is picking up are The Spark, Jailed, Primordial Man and Fictionauts. The Spark GN by rising stars Martin Renard and Nahuel Sagarnaga Cozman, is a sci-fi/super-hero tale for all ages, and will be the first book to be released in the publishing deal. It is available now to order, and will be in stores March 25, 2008.
Preview The Spark GN at: http://studio-407.com/spark/preview.html
"We're very excited about bringing these books to the States." Says Studio 407's Editor-In-Chief Chad Jones. "There's a lot of great talent south of the border and we're very lucky to be able to work with them."
The local comic industry in Argentina has continued to thrive despite the economic adversity the country has faced. While many Argentine creators have made the successful crossover to North America and Europe, they also passed on their knowledge to successive generations which in turn helped fuel the boom in self-publishing in Argentina.
Adds Jones, “A lot of these guys have been honing their craft working for publishers abroad, and I think this is a great opportunity for Argentine talent to step into the spotlight as a force behind creator-owned work. As you can see from what Nahuel has done with The Spark (which looks like Matt Wagner doing manga), they have their own distinct take on things.”
"We are very pleased that Studio-407 has chosen our stories and demonstrated so much interest in publishing them." Explains Matias, publisher at Altercomics. "We feel more like a part of their family now and we hope that all the US readers can enjoy these books as much as the readers in Latin America have."
The Spark is described as: Fifteen years ago, a phenomenon called “The Spark” created four super-humans who sacrificed themselves to stop a worldwide cataclysm. Now, The Spark has happened again, creating a new generation of heroes. As three heroes emerge to accept their responsibility as protectors of humanity, everyone wonders, where’s the fourth? Turns out, not everybody wants to be a super-hero. Lucas has been hiding his powers because he has other responsibilities to contend with — school, his full-time job to help his mom with the bills and a little sister who’s more than a handful. But when an alien horde arrives to turn the planet, does Lucas leave his family to save the earth? What’s a super-hero to do?
The Spark ISBN# 978-1-935385-01-1
Writer: Martin Renard
Artist: Nahuel Sagarnaga Cozman
Full Color 84 pgs. $13.99
Look for Jailed, Primordial Man and Fictionauts to be released throughout 2009
For more information on Studio 407, visit them online at (http://www.Studio-407.com), or check them out in your local comic book shop!
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. www.Studio-407.com.
About Altercomics
Altercomics Studios is a group of artists from Argentina that have been producing comic books and manga since 2004. Some of the titles that have already been published in Argentina, include Time 5, Primordial Man, 78 mph and Fictionauts. They have also produced comics for companies such as Avatar Press (USA), Tokyo Pop (USA), Arcana (Canada), and Makma Studio (France). Altercomics ultimate goal is telling captivating and intriguing stories that entertain and provoke. www.altercomics.com.ar
Studio 407 Inks Publishing Deal with Argentina's Altercomics
January 5, 2009 - Studio 407 is excited to announce a deal with Argentina's Altercomics for distribution in North America. The four titles Studio 407 is picking up are The Spark, Jailed, Primordial Man and Fictionauts. The Spark GN by rising stars Martin Renard and Nahuel Sagarnaga Cozman, is a sci-fi/super-hero tale for all ages, and will be the first book to be released in the publishing deal. It is available now to order, and will be in stores March 25, 2008.
Preview The Spark GN at: http://studio-407.com/spark/preview.html
"We're very excited about bringing these books to the States." Says Studio 407's Editor-In-Chief Chad Jones. "There's a lot of great talent south of the border and we're very lucky to be able to work with them."
The local comic industry in Argentina has continued to thrive despite the economic adversity the country has faced. While many Argentine creators have made the successful crossover to North America and Europe, they also passed on their knowledge to successive generations which in turn helped fuel the boom in self-publishing in Argentina.
Adds Jones, “A lot of these guys have been honing their craft working for publishers abroad, and I think this is a great opportunity for Argentine talent to step into the spotlight as a force behind creator-owned work. As you can see from what Nahuel has done with The Spark (which looks like Matt Wagner doing manga), they have their own distinct take on things.”
"We are very pleased that Studio-407 has chosen our stories and demonstrated so much interest in publishing them." Explains Matias, publisher at Altercomics. "We feel more like a part of their family now and we hope that all the US readers can enjoy these books as much as the readers in Latin America have."
The Spark is described as: Fifteen years ago, a phenomenon called “The Spark” created four super-humans who sacrificed themselves to stop a worldwide cataclysm. Now, The Spark has happened again, creating a new generation of heroes. As three heroes emerge to accept their responsibility as protectors of humanity, everyone wonders, where’s the fourth? Turns out, not everybody wants to be a super-hero. Lucas has been hiding his powers because he has other responsibilities to contend with — school, his full-time job to help his mom with the bills and a little sister who’s more than a handful. But when an alien horde arrives to turn the planet, does Lucas leave his family to save the earth? What’s a super-hero to do?
The Spark ISBN# 978-1-935385-01-1
Writer: Martin Renard
Artist: Nahuel Sagarnaga Cozman
Full Color 84 pgs. $13.99
Look for Jailed, Primordial Man and Fictionauts to be released throughout 2009
For more information on Studio 407, visit them online at (http://www.Studio-407.com), or check them out in your local comic book shop!
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. www.Studio-407.com.
About Altercomics
Altercomics Studios is a group of artists from Argentina that have been producing comic books and manga since 2004. Some of the titles that have already been published in Argentina, include Time 5, Primordial Man, 78 mph and Fictionauts. They have also produced comics for companies such as Avatar Press (USA), Tokyo Pop (USA), Arcana (Canada), and Makma Studio (France). Altercomics ultimate goal is telling captivating and intriguing stories that entertain and provoke. www.altercomics.com.ar
Monday, January 05, 2009
2009 Arrives With New ALTERCATIONS: Volume 2 of the History of Super-Hero Activity in 20th-Century North America Now Available
Writer/artist David Yurkovich has (finally) completed volume 2 of his 2-part graphic novel series ALTERCATIONS. Volume 1 was completed and published in 2002. Shortly thereafter, Yurkovich spent time completing AV2 but was side-tracked, first with two graphic novel projects for Top Shelf Productions (LESS THAN HEROES and DEATH BY CHOCOLATE: REDUX) and later with the production of the benefit/tribute magazine MANTLO: A LIFE IN COMICS.
Yurkovich's ALTERCATIONS "history" contains 10 unique stories, each highlighting a specific decade of the 20th century and tracing the evolution of the super-hero from lone vigilante to sophisticated, contract player. As was the case with AV1, each story in AV2 contains a 1-page text introduction by Yurkovich and renowned essayist Alfred Pinchley.
The five stories in AV2 cover the latter half of the 20th century and include appearances by Yurkovich's signature teams (Threshold [The Super-Heroes of Philadelphia] and NYSS, the New York Super-Hero Syndicate) as well as several new characters and teams. Of particular fandom note is the 1960s chapter "Born to Be Fab," which features The Fab Fore (a golf-inspired quartet of super-heroes that includes a fond homage to Stan Lee and Jack Kirby's most fantastic collaboration).
ALTERCATIONS: Volume 2, an 80-page full-color bookshelf graphic album with glossy, cardstock covers is available exclusively at IndyPlanet. It is not available via the direct market. AV1 is still available for purchase directly from SGC. To view sample pages and for more information on this project, visit the ALTERCATIONS page at SGC.
Writer/artist David Yurkovich has (finally) completed volume 2 of his 2-part graphic novel series ALTERCATIONS. Volume 1 was completed and published in 2002. Shortly thereafter, Yurkovich spent time completing AV2 but was side-tracked, first with two graphic novel projects for Top Shelf Productions (LESS THAN HEROES and DEATH BY CHOCOLATE: REDUX) and later with the production of the benefit/tribute magazine MANTLO: A LIFE IN COMICS.
Yurkovich's ALTERCATIONS "history" contains 10 unique stories, each highlighting a specific decade of the 20th century and tracing the evolution of the super-hero from lone vigilante to sophisticated, contract player. As was the case with AV1, each story in AV2 contains a 1-page text introduction by Yurkovich and renowned essayist Alfred Pinchley.
The five stories in AV2 cover the latter half of the 20th century and include appearances by Yurkovich's signature teams (Threshold [The Super-Heroes of Philadelphia] and NYSS, the New York Super-Hero Syndicate) as well as several new characters and teams. Of particular fandom note is the 1960s chapter "Born to Be Fab," which features The Fab Fore (a golf-inspired quartet of super-heroes that includes a fond homage to Stan Lee and Jack Kirby's most fantastic collaboration).
ALTERCATIONS: Volume 2, an 80-page full-color bookshelf graphic album with glossy, cardstock covers is available exclusively at IndyPlanet. It is not available via the direct market. AV1 is still available for purchase directly from SGC. To view sample pages and for more information on this project, visit the ALTERCATIONS page at SGC.
RADICAL PUBLISHING
Solicitation copy
MARCH 2009 shipping
HOTWIRE: REQUIEM FOR THE DEAD #2
Created by STEVE PUGH and WARREN ELLIS
Based on a story by WARREN ELLIS
Writer and Illustrator STEVE PUGH
Letterer STEVE PUGH
28 page, FC, March $2.99
3 covers
Hotwire #2 Cover A – Steve Pugh
Hotwire #2 Cover B – Stjepan Sejic
Hotwire #2 Cover C – Alan Brooks
Alice wakes with a broken nose and a surly house guest. As more city blocks fall to the rioters, a murdered man staggers into Police City Central and discovers his death was only the start of the worst day of his life.
SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING #3
Creator MARK LONG & NICK SAGAN
Writer M ZACHARY SHERMAN
Artist BAGUS HUTOMO
Colorist LEOS “OKITA” NG
Letterer SEAN KONOT
28 pages, FC, March, $2.99
2 Covers
Shrapnel #3 Cover A – Marek Okon
Shrapnel #3 Cover B – Borkur Eiriksson
As war rages across the Solar System, Sam launches a desperate gambit to evacuate all the non-hostile civilians from Venus before the unthinkable occurs. The military that Sam once served will accept nothing less than complete surrender, forcing her into an agonizing decision. She must choose between saving the lives of the innocents in exchange for the sacrifice of their freedom or sacrifice these same lives for a freedom that will remain undying.
Solicitation copy
MARCH 2009 shipping
HOTWIRE: REQUIEM FOR THE DEAD #2
Created by STEVE PUGH and WARREN ELLIS
Based on a story by WARREN ELLIS
Writer and Illustrator STEVE PUGH
Letterer STEVE PUGH
28 page, FC, March $2.99
3 covers
Hotwire #2 Cover A – Steve Pugh
Hotwire #2 Cover B – Stjepan Sejic
Hotwire #2 Cover C – Alan Brooks
Alice wakes with a broken nose and a surly house guest. As more city blocks fall to the rioters, a murdered man staggers into Police City Central and discovers his death was only the start of the worst day of his life.
SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING #3
Creator MARK LONG & NICK SAGAN
Writer M ZACHARY SHERMAN
Artist BAGUS HUTOMO
Colorist LEOS “OKITA” NG
Letterer SEAN KONOT
28 pages, FC, March, $2.99
2 Covers
Shrapnel #3 Cover A – Marek Okon
Shrapnel #3 Cover B – Borkur Eiriksson
As war rages across the Solar System, Sam launches a desperate gambit to evacuate all the non-hostile civilians from Venus before the unthinkable occurs. The military that Sam once served will accept nothing less than complete surrender, forcing her into an agonizing decision. She must choose between saving the lives of the innocents in exchange for the sacrifice of their freedom or sacrifice these same lives for a freedom that will remain undying.
FARSCAPE #1 GETS SECOND PRINTING
First Printing Saw Sell Out In 5 Days
Near Universal Critical Acclaim
LOS ANGELES - January 5th, 2008 - BOOM! Studios announced today that after selling out in five days, FARSCAPE #1 will be receiving a second printing. The second print will have a slightly altered cover to distinguish itself from the first printing.
Diamond Comics Distributors will make the second printing of FARSCAPE #1 available on January 14th, at that time the second printing's code will open for orders, and a Diamond Daily article will also run that day alerting retailers to its availability.
FARSCAPE #1 second print has a tentative street date of February 4th.
"All of us involved with the Farscape comic books are ecstatic that the fans have embraced the project in such an overwhelming way," said BOOM!'s Managing Editor Matt Gagnon. " I couldn't be happier with the team we have in place. We're having a blast continuing the Farscape mythos, and we hope it shows."
FARSCAPE #1 is written by television series creator Rockne S. O'Bannon with script by Keith R.A. DeCandido, interior art by Tommy Patterson and cover art by fan-favorites Dennis Calero and Joseph Corroney!
Picking up directly where the television miniseries FARSCAPE: THE PEACEKEEPER WARS left off, fans can look forward to show creator O'Bannon steering their favorite characters into new and original stories, keeping with the existing canon - and then extending it!
Since the release of FARSCAPE #1, critics across the internet have raved:
"...a must-read..." - Newsarama
"...This is the best comic of a TV show ever done..." - Comics And...
"Every word and panel could be shot for a FARSCAPE episode... it's a great to day to be a FARSCAPE fan." - Weekly Comic Book Review
"FARSCAPE is probably the best TV series made into comics I have seen so far." - Independent Comics Site
"Fans of the TV series should rejoice ..." - Broken Frontier
"...FARSCAPE #1 is everything that made FARSCAPE a cult hit and fan favorite, successfully translated to a new medium." - Watch Farscape
"There's action, sex, exposition, and a bit of humor... Pretty much everything you want in a FARSCAPE episode. Color me happy." - Comixtreme
"...the scenes definitely ring true to the show, even some four years later." - Comic Book Resources
"...for those of you who weren't FARSCAPE fans during the TV series run and don't understand what the buzz is about, this is a perfect opportunity to jump in!" - Comic Related
"It's good. Very good... Strongly recommended." - Dave's Rants
Debuting on the SCI-FI Channel in 1998, FARSCAPE follows the adventures of astronaut John Crichton, who has a freak accident during an experimental space mission that catapults him across a thousand galaxies to an alien battlefield. Suddenly, he's trapped among alien creatures wielding deadly technology - a battle that 20th century sci-fi pop culture never prepared him for. Hunted by a merciless military race, Crichton begins his quest for home from a distant galaxy.
A groundbreaking award-winning sci-fi production, FARSCAPE from The Jim Henson Company and [HALLMARK] has become a global favorite. Named by TV Guide as one of television's "Best Cult Shows Ever" and most recently named by EMPIRE Magazine as one of the "50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time," FARSCAPE is known for the overwhelming fan-based campaign that led to its miniseries production. The show has continued to find new audiences as it airs in syndication and is available on iTunes and DVD.
About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (http://www.boom-studios.com) is a unique new publishing house specializing in high-profile projects across a wide variety of different genres from some of the industry's biggest talents. In its inaugural year, Wizard Magazine named BOOM! "Best New Publisher." Founded by the creator of the TV show EUREKA, Andrew Cosby, and his partner Ross Richie, BOOM! Studios continues to be on the leading edge of comic and graphic novel publishing.
First Printing Saw Sell Out In 5 Days
Near Universal Critical Acclaim
LOS ANGELES - January 5th, 2008 - BOOM! Studios announced today that after selling out in five days, FARSCAPE #1 will be receiving a second printing. The second print will have a slightly altered cover to distinguish itself from the first printing.
Diamond Comics Distributors will make the second printing of FARSCAPE #1 available on January 14th, at that time the second printing's code will open for orders, and a Diamond Daily article will also run that day alerting retailers to its availability.
FARSCAPE #1 second print has a tentative street date of February 4th.
"All of us involved with the Farscape comic books are ecstatic that the fans have embraced the project in such an overwhelming way," said BOOM!'s Managing Editor Matt Gagnon. " I couldn't be happier with the team we have in place. We're having a blast continuing the Farscape mythos, and we hope it shows."
FARSCAPE #1 is written by television series creator Rockne S. O'Bannon with script by Keith R.A. DeCandido, interior art by Tommy Patterson and cover art by fan-favorites Dennis Calero and Joseph Corroney!
Picking up directly where the television miniseries FARSCAPE: THE PEACEKEEPER WARS left off, fans can look forward to show creator O'Bannon steering their favorite characters into new and original stories, keeping with the existing canon - and then extending it!
Since the release of FARSCAPE #1, critics across the internet have raved:
"...a must-read..." - Newsarama
"...This is the best comic of a TV show ever done..." - Comics And...
"Every word and panel could be shot for a FARSCAPE episode... it's a great to day to be a FARSCAPE fan." - Weekly Comic Book Review
"FARSCAPE is probably the best TV series made into comics I have seen so far." - Independent Comics Site
"Fans of the TV series should rejoice ..." - Broken Frontier
"...FARSCAPE #1 is everything that made FARSCAPE a cult hit and fan favorite, successfully translated to a new medium." - Watch Farscape
"There's action, sex, exposition, and a bit of humor... Pretty much everything you want in a FARSCAPE episode. Color me happy." - Comixtreme
"...the scenes definitely ring true to the show, even some four years later." - Comic Book Resources
"...for those of you who weren't FARSCAPE fans during the TV series run and don't understand what the buzz is about, this is a perfect opportunity to jump in!" - Comic Related
"It's good. Very good... Strongly recommended." - Dave's Rants
Debuting on the SCI-FI Channel in 1998, FARSCAPE follows the adventures of astronaut John Crichton, who has a freak accident during an experimental space mission that catapults him across a thousand galaxies to an alien battlefield. Suddenly, he's trapped among alien creatures wielding deadly technology - a battle that 20th century sci-fi pop culture never prepared him for. Hunted by a merciless military race, Crichton begins his quest for home from a distant galaxy.
A groundbreaking award-winning sci-fi production, FARSCAPE from The Jim Henson Company and [HALLMARK] has become a global favorite. Named by TV Guide as one of television's "Best Cult Shows Ever" and most recently named by EMPIRE Magazine as one of the "50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time," FARSCAPE is known for the overwhelming fan-based campaign that led to its miniseries production. The show has continued to find new audiences as it airs in syndication and is available on iTunes and DVD.
About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (http://www.boom-studios.com) is a unique new publishing house specializing in high-profile projects across a wide variety of different genres from some of the industry's biggest talents. In its inaugural year, Wizard Magazine named BOOM! "Best New Publisher." Founded by the creator of the TV show EUREKA, Andrew Cosby, and his partner Ross Richie, BOOM! Studios continues to be on the leading edge of comic and graphic novel publishing.
BACK ON THE RACKS!
DEVIL'S DUE BOOKS BEGIN HITTING STORES
Chicago, IL. (September 11, 2008) – After a rough 4th quarter in 2008 and a brief delay in production, DDP books are shipping once again. The company's hit series Hack/Slash dropped last week with issue #18, alongside the trade paperback DemonWars vol. 2, "The Demon Spirit".
According to DDP Assistant Publisher Sam Wells, DDP books scheduled for January shipping include:
January 7, 2009
Mercy Sparx #2
Rest #2
January 21, 2009
Spooks: Omega Team #4
Hack/Slash #19
January 28
Sheena: Dark Rising #2
"I want to personally thank all of the retailers and fans who have loyally stuck by our side during this difficult time," said Josh Blaylock, President, "2008 was not easy for anyone, but for those of us who pull through we'll all come out stronger. We have a tremendous amount of inventory on order and you will see over a dozen releases coming through the pipeline by the end of February."
DDP plans to release its 2009 publishing slate in the very near future, including the all new Vampire Hunter D, Bionic Commando and Humanoids series'.
******
About Devil's Due Publishing:
Proliferators of comic 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 cutting edge designer toys and lifestyle accessories under the imprint DDPOP.
DEVIL'S DUE BOOKS BEGIN HITTING STORES
Chicago, IL. (September 11, 2008) – After a rough 4th quarter in 2008 and a brief delay in production, DDP books are shipping once again. The company's hit series Hack/Slash dropped last week with issue #18, alongside the trade paperback DemonWars vol. 2, "The Demon Spirit".
According to DDP Assistant Publisher Sam Wells, DDP books scheduled for January shipping include:
January 7, 2009
Mercy Sparx #2
Rest #2
January 21, 2009
Spooks: Omega Team #4
Hack/Slash #19
January 28
Sheena: Dark Rising #2
"I want to personally thank all of the retailers and fans who have loyally stuck by our side during this difficult time," said Josh Blaylock, President, "2008 was not easy for anyone, but for those of us who pull through we'll all come out stronger. We have a tremendous amount of inventory on order and you will see over a dozen releases coming through the pipeline by the end of February."
DDP plans to release its 2009 publishing slate in the very near future, including the all new Vampire Hunter D, Bionic Commando and Humanoids series'.
******
About Devil's Due Publishing:
Proliferators of comic 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 cutting edge designer toys and lifestyle accessories under the imprint DDPOP.
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