PRESS RELEASE - SHADOWLINE'S NEW CRIME SERIES OVERLOOK PROMISES TO ROB, KILL AND MAIM THIS APRIL!Shadowline's April debuting three-issue mini-series brings hard-boiled crime just the way you like it!
12 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - Image Comics' Shadowline makes sure crime fans of comics like SIN CITY and CRIMINAL have it good this April as writer Joshua Williamson and artist Alejandro Aragon introduce them to the hard-boiled noir of OVERLOOK!
"OVERLOOK takes everything I love about crime novels, movies and comics and distills them into three issues of some of the most brutal comics I've ever written," Williamson said. "Even better, Alejandro completely mastered conveying OVERLOOK's beautifully twisted noir with only his brush to help him. I cannot believe some of the things we're getting away with in this book. My fellow crime fans will be most pleased."
In the town of OVERLOOK, a dirty prize-fighter by the name of Mickey "The Nickel" Nicholson will do anything for a buck. Mickey is hired by one of OVERLOOK's most notorious mobsters to infiltrate an underground boxing outfit and find a massive stash of stolen "rainy day" money and kill the wayward wife responsible. In return, a target of Mickey's choice will be assassinated by the mobster, no strings attached. It's the deal of the century, but like any deal in OVERLOOK, there's much more than you could ever bargain for.
OVERLOOK #1 (FEB092436), a 32-page black and white three issue mini-series for $3.50, will be in stores April 8th.
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.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Hey, look I made a little rhyme there.
This weekend is the annual Gallifrey One Doctor Who Convention at the L.A. Airport Marriott. I'll be in attendance, hosting some panels and taking in the awesomeness that is Doctor Who. More info on the event here:
http://gallifreyone.com/gallifrey.php
I'll be on the following panels:
Friday - 1pm - The State of the Comics World
Paul Cornell, Tony Lee, Pia Guerra, Arne Starr, Joshua Fialkov, Scott Armstrong - Room 3
Saturday - 3pm - Doctor Who Comics Workshop
Tony Lee, Joshua Fialkov, Pia Guerra, Paul Cornell - Room 4
Saturday - 5pm - When Did Vampires Become Trendy?
Joshua Fialkov, Stephanie Snow, Sam Stone, Jill Sherwin, Tony Lee, Tara O'Shea, Ingrid Oliansky - Room 3
Sunday - 5pm - If Superheroes Were Real
Paul Cornell, Joshua Fialkov, Tony Lee, Ed Green, Thomas Powers - Room 3
Hope to see some of you guys there!
j.
www.thefialkov.com
This weekend is the annual Gallifrey One Doctor Who Convention at the L.A. Airport Marriott. I'll be in attendance, hosting some panels and taking in the awesomeness that is Doctor Who. More info on the event here:
http://gallifreyone.com/gallifrey.php
I'll be on the following panels:
Friday - 1pm - The State of the Comics World
Paul Cornell, Tony Lee, Pia Guerra, Arne Starr, Joshua Fialkov, Scott Armstrong - Room 3
Saturday - 3pm - Doctor Who Comics Workshop
Tony Lee, Joshua Fialkov, Pia Guerra, Paul Cornell - Room 4
Saturday - 5pm - When Did Vampires Become Trendy?
Joshua Fialkov, Stephanie Snow, Sam Stone, Jill Sherwin, Tony Lee, Tara O'Shea, Ingrid Oliansky - Room 3
Sunday - 5pm - If Superheroes Were Real
Paul Cornell, Joshua Fialkov, Tony Lee, Ed Green, Thomas Powers - Room 3
Hope to see some of you guys there!
j.
www.thefialkov.com
You are cordially invited…
to attend the wedding of Mark and Abby in Love and Capes #12.
You might not have been invited to Lois and Clark’s wedding. You probably couldn’t attend Peter and MJ’s wedding (and, if you did, you don’t remember it.). But you can be in attendance for the comic book wedding of the 21st century! The Crusader and Abby are getting married in Love and Capes #12, coming out in December 2009, and you could be there.
Tickets to this wedding are limited and seating is first come, first served. Cost is just $40 per couple or $25 per single. No "crashers" permitted. To be part of this special event, RSVP by sending a photo of yourself, along with your payment, and you will be drawn into the wedding scene cover of Love and Capes #12 and mentioned by name at the end of the book.
To commemorate this special event, and to show our appreciation for the fans of Love and Capes, artist Thom Zahler will be creating a special limited edition 11 x 17 print of the wedding cover. All "attendees" will be sent a signed and numbered print to commorate their attendance at this "super" celebration. Interested attendees can also look for Thom Zahler at MegaCon in Orlando, Florida on Feb. 27-Mar.1 or the Free Comic Book Day event May 2nd at Rogues Gallery Comics in Austin, Texas , where he’ll have his camera ready to snap your photo on site.
If response warrants, an alternate version of the cover illustration (featuring Mark in his tuxedo, rather than his Crusader uniform) will be created to handle the overflow crowd.
Please RSVP by May 25, 2009. http://www.loveandcapes.com/rsvp
to attend the wedding of Mark and Abby in Love and Capes #12.
You might not have been invited to Lois and Clark’s wedding. You probably couldn’t attend Peter and MJ’s wedding (and, if you did, you don’t remember it.). But you can be in attendance for the comic book wedding of the 21st century! The Crusader and Abby are getting married in Love and Capes #12, coming out in December 2009, and you could be there.
Tickets to this wedding are limited and seating is first come, first served. Cost is just $40 per couple or $25 per single. No "crashers" permitted. To be part of this special event, RSVP by sending a photo of yourself, along with your payment, and you will be drawn into the wedding scene cover of Love and Capes #12 and mentioned by name at the end of the book.
To commemorate this special event, and to show our appreciation for the fans of Love and Capes, artist Thom Zahler will be creating a special limited edition 11 x 17 print of the wedding cover. All "attendees" will be sent a signed and numbered print to commorate their attendance at this "super" celebration. Interested attendees can also look for Thom Zahler at MegaCon in Orlando, Florida on Feb. 27-Mar.1 or the Free Comic Book Day event May 2nd at Rogues Gallery Comics in Austin, Texas , where he’ll have his camera ready to snap your photo on site.
If response warrants, an alternate version of the cover illustration (featuring Mark in his tuxedo, rather than his Crusader uniform) will be created to handle the overflow crowd.
Please RSVP by May 25, 2009. http://www.loveandcapes.com/rsvp
A deadly virus is unleashed in a special two-part episode of STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS.
The heroes of the Republic must deal with an altogether different kind of enemy when they face an evil and diabolical mad scientist in “Blue Shadow Virus” and “Mystery of A Thousand Moons,” a special double feature of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS, premiering as an all-new, two-part episode on 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, Feb. 13, on Cartoon Network.
In “Blue Shadow Virus,” Padmé Amidala is captured while searching for a secret Separatist bio-weapons lab run by Dr. Nuvo Vindi (portrayed by science-fiction icon Michael York), a scientist as cold and calculating as he is evil. While they manage to find the mad doctor and uncover his scheme, they are too late to prevent the release of his deadly concoction – leaving Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi just 48 hours to find the elusive antidote in “Mystery of A Thousand Moons.”
Best known for his role in 1975’s Logan’s Run, York brings a sense of manic enthusiasm and righteous fervor to the role of Dr. Vindi.
Vindi’s plan for galactic cleansing provides an unusual mission for the heroes of the Clone Wars, pitting them against an unseen threat that cannot necessarily be conquered through direct aggression. According “Blue Shadow Virus” director Giancarlo Volpe, this provides an opportunity to see how the characters respond to a new kind of pressure.
“This episode is really about refortifying the Anakin-Padmé dynamic,” Volpe says. “She is his universe and so he’ll compromise the mission to make sure her safety comes first. It’s not what a Jedi is supposed to do, but that’s Anakin.”
Once Padmé, Ahsoka and the clones become infected, however, the stakes are raised, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to sort out a solution in “Mystery of A Thousand Moons,” according to director Jesse Yeh. Their quest for the cure serves as a perfect vehicle to spotlight the relationship between the two Jedi, emphasizing their differences as well as their respect for one another.
“Obi-Wan and Anakin do things so differently, yet they rely on each other so much that they would trust each other with their own lives,” Yeh says. “Obi-Wan is more than just a mentor trying to teach Anakin the path of a Jedi Master. When needed, he can also be an understanding friend of Anakin and stand by his decisions as well – even if sometimes those decisions could mean a violation of the Jedi teachings.
“At the same time, Anakin tries to prohibit his own impulsive thoughts and emotions from taking over, and he is willing to do so totally out of the respect and trust he has for Obi-Wan – even when the life of his true love is at stake at the time.”
The heroes of the Republic must deal with an altogether different kind of enemy when they face an evil and diabolical mad scientist in “Blue Shadow Virus” and “Mystery of A Thousand Moons,” a special double feature of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS, premiering as an all-new, two-part episode on 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, Feb. 13, on Cartoon Network.
In “Blue Shadow Virus,” Padmé Amidala is captured while searching for a secret Separatist bio-weapons lab run by Dr. Nuvo Vindi (portrayed by science-fiction icon Michael York), a scientist as cold and calculating as he is evil. While they manage to find the mad doctor and uncover his scheme, they are too late to prevent the release of his deadly concoction – leaving Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi just 48 hours to find the elusive antidote in “Mystery of A Thousand Moons.”
Best known for his role in 1975’s Logan’s Run, York brings a sense of manic enthusiasm and righteous fervor to the role of Dr. Vindi.
Vindi’s plan for galactic cleansing provides an unusual mission for the heroes of the Clone Wars, pitting them against an unseen threat that cannot necessarily be conquered through direct aggression. According “Blue Shadow Virus” director Giancarlo Volpe, this provides an opportunity to see how the characters respond to a new kind of pressure.
“This episode is really about refortifying the Anakin-Padmé dynamic,” Volpe says. “She is his universe and so he’ll compromise the mission to make sure her safety comes first. It’s not what a Jedi is supposed to do, but that’s Anakin.”
Once Padmé, Ahsoka and the clones become infected, however, the stakes are raised, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to sort out a solution in “Mystery of A Thousand Moons,” according to director Jesse Yeh. Their quest for the cure serves as a perfect vehicle to spotlight the relationship between the two Jedi, emphasizing their differences as well as their respect for one another.
“Obi-Wan and Anakin do things so differently, yet they rely on each other so much that they would trust each other with their own lives,” Yeh says. “Obi-Wan is more than just a mentor trying to teach Anakin the path of a Jedi Master. When needed, he can also be an understanding friend of Anakin and stand by his decisions as well – even if sometimes those decisions could mean a violation of the Jedi teachings.
“At the same time, Anakin tries to prohibit his own impulsive thoughts and emotions from taking over, and he is willing to do so totally out of the respect and trust he has for Obi-Wan – even when the life of his true love is at stake at the time.”
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
PRESS RELEASE - BRETT RATNER BRINGS ROB LIEFELD'S YOUNGBLOOD TO THE BIG SCREEN!
Rush Hour director puts YOUNGBLOOD movie on the fast track to becoming a feature film!
10 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - This past Monday Variety announced Rob Liefeld's seminal superhero hit, YOUNGBLOOD, is on the fast track to the big screen courtesy of Rush Hour director Brett Ratner!
"Ratner is an A-list director whose blockbuster movies explode on the top box office charts and, more importantly, relates over the top action to the masses in ways no other director can - in other words, he's the perfect director for YOUNGBLOOD," Liefeld said. "It's taken me nearly twenty years to find a director completely in synch with everything a YOUNGBLOOD movie would require and it was definitely worth the wait. I don't doubt YOUNGBLOOD will evolve superhero movies in ways no one will ever see coming!"
YOUNGBLOOD launched Image Comics in 1992 and instantaneously created the creator-owned revolution with it's genre-smashing storylines and explosive artwork. The original series, now collected in YOUNGBLOOD VOL. 1 HC, presented a superteam like none other at the time, featuring superheroes as celebrities who had more in common with pop stars, actors and product endorsing athletes. Until now the team has never transitioned to film, but they're currently targeted to do so by 2012, the twentieth anniversary of YOUNGBLOOD and the formation of Image Comics.
YOUNGBLOOD VOL. 1 HC (AUG071974), a 152-page full-color hardcover for $34.99, is available now!
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.
Rush Hour director puts YOUNGBLOOD movie on the fast track to becoming a feature film!
10 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - This past Monday Variety announced Rob Liefeld's seminal superhero hit, YOUNGBLOOD, is on the fast track to the big screen courtesy of Rush Hour director Brett Ratner!
"Ratner is an A-list director whose blockbuster movies explode on the top box office charts and, more importantly, relates over the top action to the masses in ways no other director can - in other words, he's the perfect director for YOUNGBLOOD," Liefeld said. "It's taken me nearly twenty years to find a director completely in synch with everything a YOUNGBLOOD movie would require and it was definitely worth the wait. I don't doubt YOUNGBLOOD will evolve superhero movies in ways no one will ever see coming!"
YOUNGBLOOD launched Image Comics in 1992 and instantaneously created the creator-owned revolution with it's genre-smashing storylines and explosive artwork. The original series, now collected in YOUNGBLOOD VOL. 1 HC, presented a superteam like none other at the time, featuring superheroes as celebrities who had more in common with pop stars, actors and product endorsing athletes. Until now the team has never transitioned to film, but they're currently targeted to do so by 2012, the twentieth anniversary of YOUNGBLOOD and the formation of Image Comics.
YOUNGBLOOD VOL. 1 HC (AUG071974), a 152-page full-color hardcover for $34.99, is available now!
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.
Fearless Dawn #1 is featured in this month's Previews on page 212. The issue has a Spotlight and Zombie-Riffic blurb.
Title: FEARLESS DAWN
ORDER CODE: FEB094073
Issue Number: 1 OF 4
Frequency of Publication: QUARTERLY
Writers’ and Artists’ Names: Steve Mannion
Intended Audience: general readers
Genre: Action / Adventure/Comedy
Format: SC, 32 pgs, COLOR , saddle stitched
Retail Price: $2.95
Ship Date: APRIL 2009
ISBN13:978-0-9818230-2-7
Writers: Steve Mannion
Artists: Steve Mannion
Cover Artist: Steve Mannion
Synopsis:
Jet riding good girl FEARLESS DAWN battles her arch nemesis Helga Von
Krause in this mini-series from Steve Mannion. Fearless Dawn
infiltrates the vaunted "Manitoba Sector" to discover the secret
behind Helga's chemically-induced NAZI MONSTERS. Meanwhile, all is not
well back at home base when Fearless Dawn's boss discovers our hero
has broken probation and flown the coop! Join us now as Steve
Mannion's beautifully rendered comic book tale unfolds in full-color
glory! Fan's of Steve Mannion's The Bomb will love this new action-packed series.
PREVIEW URL: www.asylumpress.com/FearlessDawn1.pdf
Title: FEARLESS DAWN
ORDER CODE: FEB094073
Issue Number: 1 OF 4
Frequency of Publication: QUARTERLY
Writers’ and Artists’ Names: Steve Mannion
Intended Audience: general readers
Genre: Action / Adventure/Comedy
Format: SC, 32 pgs, COLOR , saddle stitched
Retail Price: $2.95
Ship Date: APRIL 2009
ISBN13:978-0-9818230-2-7
Writers: Steve Mannion
Artists: Steve Mannion
Cover Artist: Steve Mannion
Synopsis:
Jet riding good girl FEARLESS DAWN battles her arch nemesis Helga Von
Krause in this mini-series from Steve Mannion. Fearless Dawn
infiltrates the vaunted "Manitoba Sector" to discover the secret
behind Helga's chemically-induced NAZI MONSTERS. Meanwhile, all is not
well back at home base when Fearless Dawn's boss discovers our hero
has broken probation and flown the coop! Join us now as Steve
Mannion's beautifully rendered comic book tale unfolds in full-color
glory! Fan's of Steve Mannion's The Bomb will love this new action-packed series.
PREVIEW URL: www.asylumpress.com/FearlessDawn1.pdf
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Tiny Titans Invade Chicago
Challengers Comics has kid friendly signing for Valentine’s Day
(Chicago IL, February 10, 2009) Challengers Comics is holding a kid friendly event this Valentine’s Day to celebrate the release of the Tiny Titans “Welcome to the Treehouse” collection by renowned artist Art Baltazar. The event will run from 12:00-3:00 on February 14, 2009 and will include free Tiny Titan themed sweets, valentines, signings by the artist and anyone who shows up to Tiny Titans Day in costume, kid or adult, gets a FREE Tiny Titans comic signed by Baltazar. As if that isn’t enough, fans can come get their picture taken with characters from the book for free as well. Challengers Comics is located at 1845 N. Western Ave in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago.
“We know everyone is having a tough time right now and we wanted to do something to give back to the neighborhood we now call home”, explained Co-Owner of Challengers Comics Patrick Brower. “Tiny Titans are the kid friendly version of the Teen Titans a fan favorite book from DC Comics. It’s been a hit with comic book readers young and old and is a great way for whole families to enjoy reading together.” The other Co-Owner of Challengers Comics W. Dal Bush commented “Art Baltazar has been working on various major comics for over a decade and is a downright nice guy. He’s a hometown Chicagoan who is a great example of what hard work and persistence can achieve.”
Tiny Titans Collection Volume 1: “Welcome to the Treehouse” sells for $12.99 and is available now. Kid-friendly versions of the Teen Titans and their rogues gallery star in this fun, light-hearted, all-ages romp beautifully written and illustrated by Art Baltazar and Franco. This graphic novel collects the first six issues in the series and is the perfect Valentine’s gift for old and new comic fans alike.
About Challengers Comics:
Challengers Comics opened their doors in April 2008 with the goal to open a store that embodied everything that W. Dal Bush and Patrick Brower had learned in their decades of experience working in comic book retail. Patrick and Dal have been life long friends and comic book fans. Challengers is a place to gather, to communicate and to enjoy to comic books as an art form.
Challengers Comics – Be Challenged! – www.challengercomics.com
Challengers Comics has kid friendly signing for Valentine’s Day
(Chicago IL, February 10, 2009) Challengers Comics is holding a kid friendly event this Valentine’s Day to celebrate the release of the Tiny Titans “Welcome to the Treehouse” collection by renowned artist Art Baltazar. The event will run from 12:00-3:00 on February 14, 2009 and will include free Tiny Titan themed sweets, valentines, signings by the artist and anyone who shows up to Tiny Titans Day in costume, kid or adult, gets a FREE Tiny Titans comic signed by Baltazar. As if that isn’t enough, fans can come get their picture taken with characters from the book for free as well. Challengers Comics is located at 1845 N. Western Ave in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago.
“We know everyone is having a tough time right now and we wanted to do something to give back to the neighborhood we now call home”, explained Co-Owner of Challengers Comics Patrick Brower. “Tiny Titans are the kid friendly version of the Teen Titans a fan favorite book from DC Comics. It’s been a hit with comic book readers young and old and is a great way for whole families to enjoy reading together.” The other Co-Owner of Challengers Comics W. Dal Bush commented “Art Baltazar has been working on various major comics for over a decade and is a downright nice guy. He’s a hometown Chicagoan who is a great example of what hard work and persistence can achieve.”
Tiny Titans Collection Volume 1: “Welcome to the Treehouse” sells for $12.99 and is available now. Kid-friendly versions of the Teen Titans and their rogues gallery star in this fun, light-hearted, all-ages romp beautifully written and illustrated by Art Baltazar and Franco. This graphic novel collects the first six issues in the series and is the perfect Valentine’s gift for old and new comic fans alike.
About Challengers Comics:
Challengers Comics opened their doors in April 2008 with the goal to open a store that embodied everything that W. Dal Bush and Patrick Brower had learned in their decades of experience working in comic book retail. Patrick and Dal have been life long friends and comic book fans. Challengers is a place to gather, to communicate and to enjoy to comic books as an art form.
Challengers Comics – Be Challenged! – www.challengercomics.com
Happy Tuesday to you!
My contribution to Dean Haspiel's excellent Next Door Neighbor series
is a more experimental piece I wrote last year entitled "Red
Plastic". This was a chance for me to draw more effortless
cartooning and I had a blast with it; you can read it for free here:
http://www.smithmag.net/nextdoorneighbor/2009/02/09/story-22/
There are many great pieces in the series, so be sure to poke around.
Lots more exciting things on the horizon; in the meantime, have a
wonderful day!
-------looooooove-------> d!
Dan Goldman
http://dangoldman.net
My contribution to Dean Haspiel's excellent Next Door Neighbor series
is a more experimental piece I wrote last year entitled "Red
Plastic". This was a chance for me to draw more effortless
cartooning and I had a blast with it; you can read it for free here:
http://www.smithmag.net/nextdoorneighbor/2009/02/09/story-22/
There are many great pieces in the series, so be sure to poke around.
Lots more exciting things on the horizon; in the meantime, have a
wonderful day!
-------looooooove-------> d!
Dan Goldman
http://dangoldman.net
The heroes of the Republic must deal with an altogether different kind of enemy when they face an evil and diabolical mad scientist in “Blue Shadow Virus” and “Mystery of A Thousand Moons,” a special double feature of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS, premiering as an all-new, two-part episode on 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, Feb. 13, on Cartoon Network.
In “Blue Shadow Virus,” Padmé Amidala is captured while searching for a secret Separatist bio-weapons lab run by Dr. Nuvo Vindi (portrayed by science-fiction icon Michael York), a scientist as cold and calculating as he is evil. While they manage to find the mad doctor and uncover his scheme, they are too late to prevent the release of his deadly concoction – leaving Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi just 48 hours to find the elusive antidote in “Mystery of a Thousand Moons.”
Best known for his role in 1975’s Logan’s Run, York brings a sense of manic enthusiasm and righteous fervor to the role of Dr. Vindi.
Vindi’s plan for galactic cleansing provides an unusual mission for the heroes of the Clone Wars, pitting them against an unseen threat that cannot necessarily be conquered through direct aggression. According “Blue Shadow Virus” director Giancarlo Volpe, this provides an opportunity to see how the characters respond to a new kind of pressure.
“This episode is really about refortifying the Anakin-Padmé dynamic,” Volpe says. “She is his universe and so he’ll compromise the mission to make sure her safety comes first. It’s not what a Jedi is supposed to do, but that’s Anakin.”
Once Padmé, Ahsoka and the clones become infected, however, the stakes are raised, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to sort out a solution in “Mystery of a Thousand Moons,” according to director Jesse Yeh. Their quest for the cure serves as a perfect vehicle to spotlight the relationship between the two Jedi, emphasizing their differences as well as their respect for one another.
“Obi-Wan and Anakin do things so differently, yet they rely on each other so much that they would trust each other with their own lives,” Yeh says. “Obi-Wan is more than just a mentor trying to teach Anakin the path of a Jedi Master. When needed, he can also be an understanding friend of Anakin and stand by his decisions as well – even if sometimes those decisions could mean a violation of the Jedi teachings.
“At the same time, Anakin tries to prohibit his own impulsive thoughts and emotions from taking over, and he is willing to do so totally out of the respect and trust he has for Obi-Wan – even when the life of his true love is at stake at the time.”
In “Blue Shadow Virus,” Padmé Amidala is captured while searching for a secret Separatist bio-weapons lab run by Dr. Nuvo Vindi (portrayed by science-fiction icon Michael York), a scientist as cold and calculating as he is evil. While they manage to find the mad doctor and uncover his scheme, they are too late to prevent the release of his deadly concoction – leaving Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi just 48 hours to find the elusive antidote in “Mystery of a Thousand Moons.”
Best known for his role in 1975’s Logan’s Run, York brings a sense of manic enthusiasm and righteous fervor to the role of Dr. Vindi.
Vindi’s plan for galactic cleansing provides an unusual mission for the heroes of the Clone Wars, pitting them against an unseen threat that cannot necessarily be conquered through direct aggression. According “Blue Shadow Virus” director Giancarlo Volpe, this provides an opportunity to see how the characters respond to a new kind of pressure.
“This episode is really about refortifying the Anakin-Padmé dynamic,” Volpe says. “She is his universe and so he’ll compromise the mission to make sure her safety comes first. It’s not what a Jedi is supposed to do, but that’s Anakin.”
Once Padmé, Ahsoka and the clones become infected, however, the stakes are raised, leaving Anakin and Obi-Wan to sort out a solution in “Mystery of a Thousand Moons,” according to director Jesse Yeh. Their quest for the cure serves as a perfect vehicle to spotlight the relationship between the two Jedi, emphasizing their differences as well as their respect for one another.
“Obi-Wan and Anakin do things so differently, yet they rely on each other so much that they would trust each other with their own lives,” Yeh says. “Obi-Wan is more than just a mentor trying to teach Anakin the path of a Jedi Master. When needed, he can also be an understanding friend of Anakin and stand by his decisions as well – even if sometimes those decisions could mean a violation of the Jedi teachings.
“At the same time, Anakin tries to prohibit his own impulsive thoughts and emotions from taking over, and he is willing to do so totally out of the respect and trust he has for Obi-Wan – even when the life of his true love is at stake at the time.”
BLUEWATER’S COMIC PRINTING GOES GREEN.
Starting this month, Bluewater is changing its printing to go 100% green and is committed to sustainable, environmentally responsible practices. Not only will their printing be Forest Stewardship Council approved but will also the printer process uses 100% wind energy.
B&B Print Source one of the first Portland area printing firms to be awarded an FSC certification. FSC supports responsible forest management worldwide. Our environmental strategy includes using 100 % wind power credits and the printing inks are 100% vegetable based. B&B is a recent BRAG award winner (Business Recycling Awards Group), awarded for excellence in business recycling practices. In 2007 B&B recycled over 312 tons of waste paper and 80 tons of aluminum plates.
“It is important for us to be responsible with the environment”, said Publisher Darren G. Davis. “We have always tried to do things to cut down on our carbon footprint, so this was the net step for Bluewater. This cost effective way of printing will, also tie into our mission to try to lower prices for the consumers. The quality of the printing will stay the same. We also decided to bring back our printing to the US to do our part to help the economy”.
“In an industry where paper and commercial printing will always be needed, B&B Print Source is poised to provide the comic book industry with the highest quality printing coupled with a strong environmental commitment,” said B&B Printing’s Rick Van Sant.
Each Bluewater comic book will feature the FSC logo as well as the Wind energy logo above the UPC Codes on the cover. Information about the process will be placed on the inside front cover of the books.
Last year Bluewater ran free advertising for the “The Alliance to Save Energy” which promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security.
To learn more about the new printing process, please go to: http://www.fscus.org/
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.
Starting this month, Bluewater is changing its printing to go 100% green and is committed to sustainable, environmentally responsible practices. Not only will their printing be Forest Stewardship Council approved but will also the printer process uses 100% wind energy.
B&B Print Source one of the first Portland area printing firms to be awarded an FSC certification. FSC supports responsible forest management worldwide. Our environmental strategy includes using 100 % wind power credits and the printing inks are 100% vegetable based. B&B is a recent BRAG award winner (Business Recycling Awards Group), awarded for excellence in business recycling practices. In 2007 B&B recycled over 312 tons of waste paper and 80 tons of aluminum plates.
“It is important for us to be responsible with the environment”, said Publisher Darren G. Davis. “We have always tried to do things to cut down on our carbon footprint, so this was the net step for Bluewater. This cost effective way of printing will, also tie into our mission to try to lower prices for the consumers. The quality of the printing will stay the same. We also decided to bring back our printing to the US to do our part to help the economy”.
“In an industry where paper and commercial printing will always be needed, B&B Print Source is poised to provide the comic book industry with the highest quality printing coupled with a strong environmental commitment,” said B&B Printing’s Rick Van Sant.
Each Bluewater comic book will feature the FSC logo as well as the Wind energy logo above the UPC Codes on the cover. Information about the process will be placed on the inside front cover of the books.
Last year Bluewater ran free advertising for the “The Alliance to Save Energy” which promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security.
To learn more about the new printing process, please go to: http://www.fscus.org/
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.
RODDENBERRY PRODUCTIONS AND ARCHAIA
PARTNER ON NEW VENTURE
New York, NY (February 9, 2009) – Roddenberry Productions and Archaia announced a new collaborative partnership today that will bring original Roddenberry content back to the comic space. The deal was announced at New York Comic Con and will bring the new original title Days Missing to market with an initial run of five books, the book will debut this July at San Diego Comic Con.
Days Missing will mark Roddenberry’s first new comic book title in several decades. Roddenberry is most remembered for bringing the iconic Star Trek franchise to life and in recent years has worked to bolster the brand’s overall science-fiction slate. Archaia is the industry leader in high-concept comic books. The company, which was acquired by Kunoichi Inc. in late 2008, is among the upper echelon of independent comic publishers and has published such popular titles as Mouse Guard The Killer, Artesia, Killing Pickman and Awakening.
“We are very excited to be working with an industry leader such as Archaia,” commented Trevor Roth, C.O.O. of Roddenberry Productions. “With projects like Days Missing we are renewing our commitment to bringing fans smart, provocative and compelling science fiction, the essence of Roddenberry entertainment. In Archaia we’ve found a brand partner that will help us fulfill that commitment in the comic book space.”
“As a publisher and someone who works in the science fiction arena, there is no more meaningful name than Roddenberry,” commented Stephen Christy, Head of Development for Archaia. “We are delighted to be working such a legendary name to create the premium, cutting-edge content that has come to define Archaia comics.”
Aside from the title, details for the upcoming series have not been announced. For more information and to get the latest on Days Missing, please visit www.roddenberry.com or www.archaiasp.com.
About Roddenberry Productions
Roddenberry Productions is a science-fiction leader with a tradition of ground-breaking entertainment and quality merchandise. Originally founded in 1967 by Gene Roddenberry, the company has since led a steady stable of science fiction successes including Gene Roddenberry’s Earth: Final Conflict, Gene Roddenberry’s Andromeda and, most notably, the Star Trek brand. Roddenberry Productions continues to produce entertainment for all audiences, employing a viewer-centric creative process and resulting in insightful visions of humanity. Its merchandising business is based on quality and authenticity providing memorabilia for fans in today’s new multimedia generation. Roddenberry Productions has set itself apart by creating content that surpasses mere entertainment; it acknowledges the intelligence of audiences by challenging them to think, question and explore the world, and those potentially beyond.
About Archaia
Founded in 2002, Archaia is known for creating meaningful literature that pushes the envelope and commands the highest quality content. The winner of multiple Eisner awards and nominations, Archaia has come to represent the pinnacle for creator-controlled titles. With a slate including such popular titles as Mouse Guard, The Killer, Awakening, Revere, Robitika, Killing Pickman and Artesia to the publishers latest additions—Titanium Rain, God Machine, Primordia and Trial by Fire, Archaia has become synonymous with quality content that only creators can provide.
PARTNER ON NEW VENTURE
New York, NY (February 9, 2009) – Roddenberry Productions and Archaia announced a new collaborative partnership today that will bring original Roddenberry content back to the comic space. The deal was announced at New York Comic Con and will bring the new original title Days Missing to market with an initial run of five books, the book will debut this July at San Diego Comic Con.
Days Missing will mark Roddenberry’s first new comic book title in several decades. Roddenberry is most remembered for bringing the iconic Star Trek franchise to life and in recent years has worked to bolster the brand’s overall science-fiction slate. Archaia is the industry leader in high-concept comic books. The company, which was acquired by Kunoichi Inc. in late 2008, is among the upper echelon of independent comic publishers and has published such popular titles as Mouse Guard The Killer, Artesia, Killing Pickman and Awakening.
“We are very excited to be working with an industry leader such as Archaia,” commented Trevor Roth, C.O.O. of Roddenberry Productions. “With projects like Days Missing we are renewing our commitment to bringing fans smart, provocative and compelling science fiction, the essence of Roddenberry entertainment. In Archaia we’ve found a brand partner that will help us fulfill that commitment in the comic book space.”
“As a publisher and someone who works in the science fiction arena, there is no more meaningful name than Roddenberry,” commented Stephen Christy, Head of Development for Archaia. “We are delighted to be working such a legendary name to create the premium, cutting-edge content that has come to define Archaia comics.”
Aside from the title, details for the upcoming series have not been announced. For more information and to get the latest on Days Missing, please visit www.roddenberry.com or www.archaiasp.com.
About Roddenberry Productions
Roddenberry Productions is a science-fiction leader with a tradition of ground-breaking entertainment and quality merchandise. Originally founded in 1967 by Gene Roddenberry, the company has since led a steady stable of science fiction successes including Gene Roddenberry’s Earth: Final Conflict, Gene Roddenberry’s Andromeda and, most notably, the Star Trek brand. Roddenberry Productions continues to produce entertainment for all audiences, employing a viewer-centric creative process and resulting in insightful visions of humanity. Its merchandising business is based on quality and authenticity providing memorabilia for fans in today’s new multimedia generation. Roddenberry Productions has set itself apart by creating content that surpasses mere entertainment; it acknowledges the intelligence of audiences by challenging them to think, question and explore the world, and those potentially beyond.
About Archaia
Founded in 2002, Archaia is known for creating meaningful literature that pushes the envelope and commands the highest quality content. The winner of multiple Eisner awards and nominations, Archaia has come to represent the pinnacle for creator-controlled titles. With a slate including such popular titles as Mouse Guard, The Killer, Awakening, Revere, Robitika, Killing Pickman and Artesia to the publishers latest additions—Titanium Rain, God Machine, Primordia and Trial by Fire, Archaia has become synonymous with quality content that only creators can provide.
COMING SOON -------------------- NEW MANGA SERIES FROM RUMIKO TAKAHASHI!
YES, YOU HEARD RIGHT…. If you did not attend New York Comic-Con this past week – then you might have missed this exciting announcement that was made at the VIZ Media Panel on Sunday…
VIZ Media and one of its parent companies- Japanese publishing giant Shogakukan have announced a BRAND NEW series set to debut from Rumiko Takahashi, one of today’s greatest manga creators.
This is the first new original manga series from Takahashi sensei since her epic INUYASHA series ended in 2008. Shogakukan’s popular WEEKLY SHONEN SUNDAY manga magazine, which has featured Takahashi’s work since the early 1980’s, will be debuting the new series and VIZ Media will be publishing the manga series later in 2009!
With over 170 million copies sold in Japan alone, Rumiko Takahashi's various works continue to be loved by a multitude of readers, regardless of their age or gender. Takahashi's works, full of wonderfully endearing characters that readers are drawn to, combine the various elements of comedy, love, fantasy, and martial arts, and continue to create truly unique worlds. Her works cannot be categorized by standard genres, and the signature style she has created has come to be known as the "Rumic World." It would not be an overstatement to call the "Rumic World" a genre of its own.
In addition to INUYASHA, which spanned more than 500 chapters and 50 individual volumes, some of Rumiko Takahashi’s other notable works include RANMA ½, MAISON IKKOKU, MERMAID SAGA, ONE POUND GOSPEL and, URUSEI YATSURA (THE RETURN OF LUM). All of these titles are published in North America by VIZ Media. Several of these series, including URUSEI YATSURA, MAISON IKKOKU, RANMA ½ and INUYASHA have also been adapted into highly successful animated television series and feature film releases. Rumiko Takahashi has won the prestigious Shogakukan Manga Award twice, first for URUSEI YATSURA in 1981 and again in 2002 for INUYASHA.
VIZ Media is so excited to be publishing Rumiko Takahashi’s next great series and to bring you this news, –but…. we don’t want to give it all away just yet, we just wanted to share a tidbit of exciting news for 2009 – so be sure to keep an eye out and ear open for more details, which we will be sharing with you soon.
YES, YOU HEARD RIGHT…. If you did not attend New York Comic-Con this past week – then you might have missed this exciting announcement that was made at the VIZ Media Panel on Sunday…
VIZ Media and one of its parent companies- Japanese publishing giant Shogakukan have announced a BRAND NEW series set to debut from Rumiko Takahashi, one of today’s greatest manga creators.
This is the first new original manga series from Takahashi sensei since her epic INUYASHA series ended in 2008. Shogakukan’s popular WEEKLY SHONEN SUNDAY manga magazine, which has featured Takahashi’s work since the early 1980’s, will be debuting the new series and VIZ Media will be publishing the manga series later in 2009!
With over 170 million copies sold in Japan alone, Rumiko Takahashi's various works continue to be loved by a multitude of readers, regardless of their age or gender. Takahashi's works, full of wonderfully endearing characters that readers are drawn to, combine the various elements of comedy, love, fantasy, and martial arts, and continue to create truly unique worlds. Her works cannot be categorized by standard genres, and the signature style she has created has come to be known as the "Rumic World." It would not be an overstatement to call the "Rumic World" a genre of its own.
In addition to INUYASHA, which spanned more than 500 chapters and 50 individual volumes, some of Rumiko Takahashi’s other notable works include RANMA ½, MAISON IKKOKU, MERMAID SAGA, ONE POUND GOSPEL and, URUSEI YATSURA (THE RETURN OF LUM). All of these titles are published in North America by VIZ Media. Several of these series, including URUSEI YATSURA, MAISON IKKOKU, RANMA ½ and INUYASHA have also been adapted into highly successful animated television series and feature film releases. Rumiko Takahashi has won the prestigious Shogakukan Manga Award twice, first for URUSEI YATSURA in 1981 and again in 2002 for INUYASHA.
VIZ Media is so excited to be publishing Rumiko Takahashi’s next great series and to bring you this news, –but…. we don’t want to give it all away just yet, we just wanted to share a tidbit of exciting news for 2009 – so be sure to keep an eye out and ear open for more details, which we will be sharing with you soon.
IDW PUBLISHING SIGNS DEAL WITH AWARD-WINNING ACTOR MICHAEL CHIKLIS TO DEVELOP GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES
Olympus Features Greek Gods Returning To Earth in Epic Good vs. Evil Battle
(San Diego, CA; February 7, 2009) -- Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Michael Chiklis (The Shield) has signed a deal with IDW Publishing to develop a graphic novel series, Olympus, based on an original idea by Anny Simon Beck. The parties anticipate the project being developed for other entertainment media, including film, television and games, through Chiklis’s company, Extravaganza Productions.
Dark and stylized, Olympus tells the story of ancient Greek gods returning to a ravaged, chaotic present-day earth where they battle for the future of mankind. Olympus features Zeus’ Olympians against the Titans in an epic battle of good vs. evil, and father vs. son. Breaking The Golden Rule of Greek mythology – never to reveal themselves – the supposedly mythic gods Zeus and Aphrodite, Pandora and Cronus, Prometheus and Jason, have returned to renew their timeless battles … as Armageddon beckons.
“As a kid, I was always fascinated by the Greek gods,” said Chiklis, “so the chance to bring my childhood heroes and villains to life in the modern world is irresistible. Besides, I couldn’t say no to Zeus,” said Chiklis, a third generation Greek-American, “no one in the family would ever talk to me again.”
“Not only is Michael Chiklis a truly gifted actor,” commented Ted Adams, CEO of IDW Publishing, “but his passion for comic books will be invaluable in creating what we hope will be a new classic of graphic storytelling."
Chiklis has won numerous awards, including both an Emmy and a Golden Globe, for his role as Detective Vic Mackey in The Shield, FX’s ground-breaking television series, episodes of which he also produced and directed. Previously, he played the title character in ABC’s critically acclaimed police drama The Commish, and drew rave reviews for his moving evocation of John Belushi in the feature film Wired. A long-time comic book fan, Chiklis starred as Ben Grimm, aka “The Thing,” in 20th Century Fox’s blockbuster live-action film Fantastic Four and its sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
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 children’s book imprint, Worthwhile Books. More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com.
Olympus Features Greek Gods Returning To Earth in Epic Good vs. Evil Battle
(San Diego, CA; February 7, 2009) -- Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Michael Chiklis (The Shield) has signed a deal with IDW Publishing to develop a graphic novel series, Olympus, based on an original idea by Anny Simon Beck. The parties anticipate the project being developed for other entertainment media, including film, television and games, through Chiklis’s company, Extravaganza Productions.
Dark and stylized, Olympus tells the story of ancient Greek gods returning to a ravaged, chaotic present-day earth where they battle for the future of mankind. Olympus features Zeus’ Olympians against the Titans in an epic battle of good vs. evil, and father vs. son. Breaking The Golden Rule of Greek mythology – never to reveal themselves – the supposedly mythic gods Zeus and Aphrodite, Pandora and Cronus, Prometheus and Jason, have returned to renew their timeless battles … as Armageddon beckons.
“As a kid, I was always fascinated by the Greek gods,” said Chiklis, “so the chance to bring my childhood heroes and villains to life in the modern world is irresistible. Besides, I couldn’t say no to Zeus,” said Chiklis, a third generation Greek-American, “no one in the family would ever talk to me again.”
“Not only is Michael Chiklis a truly gifted actor,” commented Ted Adams, CEO of IDW Publishing, “but his passion for comic books will be invaluable in creating what we hope will be a new classic of graphic storytelling."
Chiklis has won numerous awards, including both an Emmy and a Golden Globe, for his role as Detective Vic Mackey in The Shield, FX’s ground-breaking television series, episodes of which he also produced and directed. Previously, he played the title character in ABC’s critically acclaimed police drama The Commish, and drew rave reviews for his moving evocation of John Belushi in the feature film Wired. A long-time comic book fan, Chiklis starred as Ben Grimm, aka “The Thing,” in 20th Century Fox’s blockbuster live-action film Fantastic Four and its sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
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 children’s book imprint, Worthwhile Books. More information about the company can be found at http://www.idwpublishing.com.
Vogster and Dark Horse Comics Partner to Unleash UNBOUND SAGA
Video Game and Comic Book Series
UNBOUND SAGA delivers ‘One-Two Punch’ on the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system
and in comic book stores this June!
NEW YORK, NY, February 6, 2009 –Vogster Entertainment, an international innovator in video game design and content have today announced UNBOUND SAGA, an arcade style brawler available via download on the PlayStation® Network for the PSP system. UNBOUND SAGA is based on the upcoming comic book of the same name to be published by Dark Horse Comics, a leading publisher of comic books and graphic novels. Both the UNBOUND SAGA video game and comic book will debut in June 2009.
The UNBOUND SAGA video game follows the adventures of comic book tough guy Rick Ajax. Trapped in a comic book world that is always in need of saving, Rick is not only at odds with the constant threats against his world, but also with the ubiquitous entity known as ‘The Maker’ who constantly ‘draws’ new dangers to put in Rick’s path. But Rick has had enough and is making his way, one brawl at a time, to the final throw down with ‘The Maker’. With art by comic book artist/writer Cliff Richards (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Wonder Woman, The New Thunderbolts), UNBOUND SAGA brings hardboiled comic book action and button crunching fighting fury to portable gaming.
“As a long time comic book contributor and video game producer, I am extremely pumped to combine the two mediums I love in UNBOUND SAGA,” says Mike Kennedy, Senior Producer at Vogster. “UNBOUND SAGA captures the spirit of its sequential art roots and combines it with a humorous script and two fisted attitude that the old school brawler category is famous for. Comic book and brawler fans will have a blast when the get their hands on UNBOUND SAGA this summer!”
For additional information, please visit www.unboundsaga.com.
About Vogster Entertainment
Established in October 2005, Vogster Entertainment is a venture-funded entertainment company headquartered in New York City metropolitan area, with a production office in Chicago and development offices in Moscow, Russia and Kiev, Ukraine. Our Mission is to leverage the best engineering and art resources in Eastern Europe with the best design and production in the United States to create top quality entertainment for a variety of gaming platforms. More information can be found online at www.vogster.com.
About Dark Horse Comics
Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as The Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, and Serenity. Today Dark Horse Comics is the third largest comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as one of the world's leading publisher of licensed comics material.
Video Game and Comic Book Series
UNBOUND SAGA delivers ‘One-Two Punch’ on the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system
and in comic book stores this June!
NEW YORK, NY, February 6, 2009 –Vogster Entertainment, an international innovator in video game design and content have today announced UNBOUND SAGA, an arcade style brawler available via download on the PlayStation® Network for the PSP system. UNBOUND SAGA is based on the upcoming comic book of the same name to be published by Dark Horse Comics, a leading publisher of comic books and graphic novels. Both the UNBOUND SAGA video game and comic book will debut in June 2009.
The UNBOUND SAGA video game follows the adventures of comic book tough guy Rick Ajax. Trapped in a comic book world that is always in need of saving, Rick is not only at odds with the constant threats against his world, but also with the ubiquitous entity known as ‘The Maker’ who constantly ‘draws’ new dangers to put in Rick’s path. But Rick has had enough and is making his way, one brawl at a time, to the final throw down with ‘The Maker’. With art by comic book artist/writer Cliff Richards (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Wonder Woman, The New Thunderbolts), UNBOUND SAGA brings hardboiled comic book action and button crunching fighting fury to portable gaming.
“As a long time comic book contributor and video game producer, I am extremely pumped to combine the two mediums I love in UNBOUND SAGA,” says Mike Kennedy, Senior Producer at Vogster. “UNBOUND SAGA captures the spirit of its sequential art roots and combines it with a humorous script and two fisted attitude that the old school brawler category is famous for. Comic book and brawler fans will have a blast when the get their hands on UNBOUND SAGA this summer!”
For additional information, please visit www.unboundsaga.com.
About Vogster Entertainment
Established in October 2005, Vogster Entertainment is a venture-funded entertainment company headquartered in New York City metropolitan area, with a production office in Chicago and development offices in Moscow, Russia and Kiev, Ukraine. Our Mission is to leverage the best engineering and art resources in Eastern Europe with the best design and production in the United States to create top quality entertainment for a variety of gaming platforms. More information can be found online at www.vogster.com.
About Dark Horse Comics
Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as The Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, and Serenity. Today Dark Horse Comics is the third largest comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as one of the world's leading publisher of licensed comics material.
Legendary Writer Marv Wolfman
Joins Creative Team Developing DC Universe™ Online Video Game
Wolfman To Lend Storytelling Talent To DCUO Saga
AUSTIN, Texas - Feb. 6, 2009 - In another sign of Sony Online Entertainment LLC's (SOE) commitment to the upcoming DC Universe™ Online (DCUO) massively multiplayer online video game, the company today announced that award-winning writer Marv Wolfman has joined the creative team at WildStorm Productions that is working with SOE to bring the DC Universe to life on the PLAYSTATION® 3 computer entertainment system and the PC.
Wolfman will write compelling story arcs, exciting quests and in-game events for DCUO. Wolfman's seminal run on The New Teen Titans is a favorite among comic book fans, and along with his work on series such as Crisis on Infinite Earths, Batman and Superman, he has become one of the most recognizable names in comics of the last three decades. His illustrious comic credits also include creating and writing Blade, The Vampire Hunter.
Wolfman joins an all-star roster already at work on DCUO, including legendary comic book artist Jim Lee, who serves as the game's executive creative director, and renowned DC writer Geoff Johns, who is crafting the game's overarching story. DCUO is currently in development at SOE's Austin studio in collaboration with DC Comics and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.
"Getting Marv on board with DC Universe Online shows just how passionate and determined we are about making sure this franchise delivers for both video game players and comic book fans alike," said John Smedley, president of SOE. "This is a true collaboration between the top talent at DC and SOE, and I believe the result of this creative alliance will be one of the most exciting, memorable online game experiences to date."
Wolfman has been a creative force both on and off the pages of comic books. Wolfman recently worked as a writer for the popular Teen Titans animated series. In addition to Blade, which was turned into a TV series and three hit movies starring Wesley Snipes, he created Bullseye, the prime villain in the 2003 movie Daredevil. Wolfman has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the SCRIBE award for best speculative fiction novel adaptation for Superman Returns, and a special commendation by the White House for his work on three anti-drug comics for the "Just Say No" program.
"As a gamer, this is a dream project in many ways," said Wolfman. "I get to create new stories in the DC Universe that will make this video game world a truly unique, unforgettable experience."
About DCUO
DCUO offers a dramatic online setting where players can enter the DC Universe and battle alongside or against their favorite DC Comics heroes and villains including such icons as Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and The Joker, as well as many other fan favorites such as Green Lantern, The Flash, Catwoman and Martian Manhunter. The action and drama will play out in such well-known locations as Gotham City and Metropolis among others.
About Sony Online Entertainment
Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games, with hundreds of thousands of subscribers around the globe. SOE creates, develops and provides compelling entertainment for the personal computer, online, game console and wireless markets. Known for its blockbuster franchises and hit titles including EverQuest®, EverQuest® II, Champions of Norrath®, Untold Legends™, and PlanetSide®, as well as for developing Star Wars Galaxies™, SOE continues to redefine the business of online gaming and the creation of active player communities while introducing new genres on various entertainment platforms. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, with additional development studios in Austin, TX; Seattle, WA; Denver, CO; Tucson, AZ and Taiwan, SOE has an array of cutting-edge games in development.
SOE, the SOE logo, EverQuest and PlanetSide are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. Untold Legends and Legends of Norrath are trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners
About DC Comics
DC Comics, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world and home to such iconic characters as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Sandman. These DC Super Heroes and others have starred in comic books, movies, television series (both animated and live-action) and cyberspace, thrilling audiences of all ages for generations. DC Comics' Web site is located at www.dccomics.com.
DC UNIVERSE, DC SUPER HEROES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.
About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including console, handheld and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.
Joins Creative Team Developing DC Universe™ Online Video Game
Wolfman To Lend Storytelling Talent To DCUO Saga
AUSTIN, Texas - Feb. 6, 2009 - In another sign of Sony Online Entertainment LLC's (SOE) commitment to the upcoming DC Universe™ Online (DCUO) massively multiplayer online video game, the company today announced that award-winning writer Marv Wolfman has joined the creative team at WildStorm Productions that is working with SOE to bring the DC Universe to life on the PLAYSTATION® 3 computer entertainment system and the PC.
Wolfman will write compelling story arcs, exciting quests and in-game events for DCUO. Wolfman's seminal run on The New Teen Titans is a favorite among comic book fans, and along with his work on series such as Crisis on Infinite Earths, Batman and Superman, he has become one of the most recognizable names in comics of the last three decades. His illustrious comic credits also include creating and writing Blade, The Vampire Hunter.
Wolfman joins an all-star roster already at work on DCUO, including legendary comic book artist Jim Lee, who serves as the game's executive creative director, and renowned DC writer Geoff Johns, who is crafting the game's overarching story. DCUO is currently in development at SOE's Austin studio in collaboration with DC Comics and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.
"Getting Marv on board with DC Universe Online shows just how passionate and determined we are about making sure this franchise delivers for both video game players and comic book fans alike," said John Smedley, president of SOE. "This is a true collaboration between the top talent at DC and SOE, and I believe the result of this creative alliance will be one of the most exciting, memorable online game experiences to date."
Wolfman has been a creative force both on and off the pages of comic books. Wolfman recently worked as a writer for the popular Teen Titans animated series. In addition to Blade, which was turned into a TV series and three hit movies starring Wesley Snipes, he created Bullseye, the prime villain in the 2003 movie Daredevil. Wolfman has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the SCRIBE award for best speculative fiction novel adaptation for Superman Returns, and a special commendation by the White House for his work on three anti-drug comics for the "Just Say No" program.
"As a gamer, this is a dream project in many ways," said Wolfman. "I get to create new stories in the DC Universe that will make this video game world a truly unique, unforgettable experience."
About DCUO
DCUO offers a dramatic online setting where players can enter the DC Universe and battle alongside or against their favorite DC Comics heroes and villains including such icons as Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and The Joker, as well as many other fan favorites such as Green Lantern, The Flash, Catwoman and Martian Manhunter. The action and drama will play out in such well-known locations as Gotham City and Metropolis among others.
About Sony Online Entertainment
Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games, with hundreds of thousands of subscribers around the globe. SOE creates, develops and provides compelling entertainment for the personal computer, online, game console and wireless markets. Known for its blockbuster franchises and hit titles including EverQuest®, EverQuest® II, Champions of Norrath®, Untold Legends™, and PlanetSide®, as well as for developing Star Wars Galaxies™, SOE continues to redefine the business of online gaming and the creation of active player communities while introducing new genres on various entertainment platforms. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, with additional development studios in Austin, TX; Seattle, WA; Denver, CO; Tucson, AZ and Taiwan, SOE has an array of cutting-edge games in development.
SOE, the SOE logo, EverQuest and PlanetSide are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. Untold Legends and Legends of Norrath are trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners
About DC Comics
DC Comics, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world and home to such iconic characters as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Sandman. These DC Super Heroes and others have starred in comic books, movies, television series (both animated and live-action) and cyberspace, thrilling audiences of all ages for generations. DC Comics' Web site is located at www.dccomics.com.
DC UNIVERSE, DC SUPER HEROES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.
About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including console, handheld and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.
FINAL “FEMALE FORCE: HILLARY CLINTON” COVER REVEALED.
The “Female Force: HILLARY CLINTON” comic book unveils new cover image. Several new covers were considered but the final selection of Vinnie Tartamella painted artwork will be the featured cover for the upcoming release.
“After seeing Vinnie's work on the “Female Force: MICHELLE OBAMA” cover, I was interested to see what he could do with Hillary Clinton. I was very impressed,” said Darren G. Davis, publisher of Bluewater Productions. “It is an important title for us. This updated likeness is closer to the true tone of the series.”
“Female Force: HILLARY CLINTON” will be out in stores later this month along with the Sarah Palin comic. The comic book series has been featured on CNN, Fox News, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and numerous other media outlets. The issue is still available to order through Diamond with this code: NOV083848 F. To find a comic book shop near you go to the comic shop locator: http://www.comicshoplocator.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 “Female Force: HILLARY CLINTON” comic book unveils new cover image. Several new covers were considered but the final selection of Vinnie Tartamella painted artwork will be the featured cover for the upcoming release.
“After seeing Vinnie's work on the “Female Force: MICHELLE OBAMA” cover, I was interested to see what he could do with Hillary Clinton. I was very impressed,” said Darren G. Davis, publisher of Bluewater Productions. “It is an important title for us. This updated likeness is closer to the true tone of the series.”
“Female Force: HILLARY CLINTON” will be out in stores later this month along with the Sarah Palin comic. The comic book series has been featured on CNN, Fox News, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and numerous other media outlets. The issue is still available to order through Diamond with this code: NOV083848 F. To find a comic book shop near you go to the comic shop locator: http://www.comicshoplocator.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.
MOVE OVER BRUCE LEE AND JACKIE CHAN! THIS MARCH, IT’S TIME TO MAKE ROOM FOR A NEW MARTIAL ARTS LEGEND IN A HILARIOUS, ACTION-PACKED SOON-TO-BE CULT CLASSIC!
AFRO NINJA: DESTINY
Inspired by the Wildly Popular, Oft-Imitated Afro Ninja YouTube Video –
with Over 80 Million Views – This Laugh-Out-Loud, Martial Arts Extravaganza ($19.99srp) Stars International Stuntman Award Winner Mark Hicks (Rush Hour 2), Super Cool ‘70s Karate Legend Jim Kelly (Enter the Dragon), Marla Gibbs (“The Jeffersons”) and More!
IN STORES MARCH 17
NEW YORK, NY – What do you get when you cross one of Bruce Lee’s classic films, Jackie Chan’s funniest martial arts routines, and a touch of ‘70s blaxploitation cool with one of the funniest and most watched videos to ever appear on YouTube? You get AFRO NINJA: DESTINY, a hilarious, stunt-filled action film inspired by the titular online short that quickly became a part of pop culture upon its initial posting. Shown on Leno, parodied on “ South Park ” and featured in a Weezer music video, AFRO NINJA: DESTINY is the much-anticipated evolution of an unforgettable online debut and on March 17, Lightyear Entertainment unleashes the power of the Afro to DVD!
Throughout history, there have been instances where divine forces interrupt the norm we call existence. Enter the legend of Afro Ninja! When Reggie Carson, a hapless though kind-hearted postal worker, comes into possession of an ancient magic sword, he can’t possibly imagine how his life is about to be transformed. After a late-night visit from a warrior spirit, he’s immediately transformed into a most unlikely hero – Afro Ninja! Imbued with supernatural martial arts skills and huge Afro, he seeks truth and justice in a cold, cruel world. And when corrupt politicians, law enforcement officers and a neighborhood kick-boxing hero create an elaborate scheme to swindle people’s homes and business, his community calls on him to defend them from these calculating criminals. Can Afro Ninja and the forces of good possibly prevail?
Inspired by the outrageous YouTube phenomenon, AFRO NINJA features star/director/producer, Mark Hicks, long-time stuntman/stunt coordinator and winner of three International Stuntman Awards for his work in Rush Hour 2. Also starring in this outrageous, high-octane chop-socky flick are longtime TV star Marla Gibbs (“The Jeffersons”); Jim Kelly, who, with his easily identifiable afro, was one of the top-martial arts stars of the ‘70s and appeared in Enter the Dragon, as well as a host of other martial arts-influenced blaxploitation films including Three the Hard Way and Black Belt Jones; and, Michiko Nishiwaki, a top martial artist and stunt woman who was Japan’s first Women’s Bodybuilding and Power Lifting Champion.
Don’t miss the dawning of America ’s next great super hero with AFRO NINJA: DESTINY!
About Lightyear Entertainment
Lightyear Entertainment is a New York producer, manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of entertainment software products celebrating its milestone 25th Anniversary in 2009. Lightyear releases independent feature films through Vivendi Entertainment, and independent music through Caroline/EMI. For more information please visit http://www.lightyear.com/.
About Vivendi Entertainment
Vivendi Entertainment provides producers and independent studios a full array of distribution services, including theatrical releasing, home entertainment, digital delivery and television. Representing a vast range of genres including action, comedy, thriller, urban, family and stand-up comedies among others, Vivendi has been a favorite choice of independent content providers. Vivendi has built an extensive catalog of over 1,000 titles and its customer-centric business model was founded on the principles of collaboration and financial transparency.
# # #
AFRO NINJA: DESTINY
Street date: March 17, 2009 Genre: Comedy/Action
Running Time: 88 mins Catalog #: LY0575DVD
Rating: Unrated SRP: $19.99
Format: DVD/Single
AFRO NINJA: DESTINY
Inspired by the Wildly Popular, Oft-Imitated Afro Ninja YouTube Video –
with Over 80 Million Views – This Laugh-Out-Loud, Martial Arts Extravaganza ($19.99srp) Stars International Stuntman Award Winner Mark Hicks (Rush Hour 2), Super Cool ‘70s Karate Legend Jim Kelly (Enter the Dragon), Marla Gibbs (“The Jeffersons”) and More!
IN STORES MARCH 17
NEW YORK, NY – What do you get when you cross one of Bruce Lee’s classic films, Jackie Chan’s funniest martial arts routines, and a touch of ‘70s blaxploitation cool with one of the funniest and most watched videos to ever appear on YouTube? You get AFRO NINJA: DESTINY, a hilarious, stunt-filled action film inspired by the titular online short that quickly became a part of pop culture upon its initial posting. Shown on Leno, parodied on “ South Park ” and featured in a Weezer music video, AFRO NINJA: DESTINY is the much-anticipated evolution of an unforgettable online debut and on March 17, Lightyear Entertainment unleashes the power of the Afro to DVD!
Throughout history, there have been instances where divine forces interrupt the norm we call existence. Enter the legend of Afro Ninja! When Reggie Carson, a hapless though kind-hearted postal worker, comes into possession of an ancient magic sword, he can’t possibly imagine how his life is about to be transformed. After a late-night visit from a warrior spirit, he’s immediately transformed into a most unlikely hero – Afro Ninja! Imbued with supernatural martial arts skills and huge Afro, he seeks truth and justice in a cold, cruel world. And when corrupt politicians, law enforcement officers and a neighborhood kick-boxing hero create an elaborate scheme to swindle people’s homes and business, his community calls on him to defend them from these calculating criminals. Can Afro Ninja and the forces of good possibly prevail?
Inspired by the outrageous YouTube phenomenon, AFRO NINJA features star/director/producer, Mark Hicks, long-time stuntman/stunt coordinator and winner of three International Stuntman Awards for his work in Rush Hour 2. Also starring in this outrageous, high-octane chop-socky flick are longtime TV star Marla Gibbs (“The Jeffersons”); Jim Kelly, who, with his easily identifiable afro, was one of the top-martial arts stars of the ‘70s and appeared in Enter the Dragon, as well as a host of other martial arts-influenced blaxploitation films including Three the Hard Way and Black Belt Jones; and, Michiko Nishiwaki, a top martial artist and stunt woman who was Japan’s first Women’s Bodybuilding and Power Lifting Champion.
Don’t miss the dawning of America ’s next great super hero with AFRO NINJA: DESTINY!
About Lightyear Entertainment
Lightyear Entertainment is a New York producer, manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of entertainment software products celebrating its milestone 25th Anniversary in 2009. Lightyear releases independent feature films through Vivendi Entertainment, and independent music through Caroline/EMI. For more information please visit http://www.lightyear.com/.
About Vivendi Entertainment
Vivendi Entertainment provides producers and independent studios a full array of distribution services, including theatrical releasing, home entertainment, digital delivery and television. Representing a vast range of genres including action, comedy, thriller, urban, family and stand-up comedies among others, Vivendi has been a favorite choice of independent content providers. Vivendi has built an extensive catalog of over 1,000 titles and its customer-centric business model was founded on the principles of collaboration and financial transparency.
# # #
AFRO NINJA: DESTINY
Street date: March 17, 2009 Genre: Comedy/Action
Running Time: 88 mins Catalog #: LY0575DVD
Rating: Unrated SRP: $19.99
Format: DVD/Single
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