Friday, February 27, 2009

Radical celebrates grand opening with star-studded event

February 25th, 2009 – Hollywood heavy-hitters and top comics creators took to the red carpet at Radical Publishing’s star-studded grand opening gala for its new Los Angeles offices, a castle-shaped complex now home to both its comics publishing and film development divisions.

Guests included actor Wesley Snipes, who brought the character Blade to life in the blockbuster film trilogy, multiple SAG and MTV award-winner Ryan Phillippe, KISS rock god Gene Simmons, pro wrestling legend and actor Diamond Dallas Page (The Devil’s Rejects), as well as an array of directors, producers and executives: Len Wiseman (Underworld, Live Free or Die Hard), Gary Smith (How to Lose Friends & Alienate People), Tim Sullivan (2001 Maniacs, Detroit Rock City), Hollywood manager David Schiff, Hollywood manager and representative for 3 Arts Entertainment Molly Madden, from the Fisher House, trustee Tammy Fisher, and screenwriter Sam Sarkar, head of development at Johnny Depp’s production company, Infinitum Nihil, and author of the sellout Radical flagship series Caliber.

From the comics side, guests included Nick Simmons, of the hit A&E series Gene Simmons Family Jewels and creator of the upcoming Radical series Incarnate, fan-favorite scribe Steve Niles (Radical’s City of Dust: A Philip Khrome Story and the groundbreaking comic and movie 30 Days of Night), and award-winning superstar creator and painter Arthur Suydam (Radical’s upcoming Cholly & Flytrap: Center City deluxe collection and the breakout Marvel Zombies titles). Also in attendance were two of Radical’s new rising stars, exclusive artist Patrick Reilly (Radical’s highly anticipated Aladdin: Legacy of the Lost, written by Ian Edginton) and Doug Sirois, painter on the sequel to Radical’s debut Hercules series, The Knives of Kush, developed by veteran writer Steve Moore and comics icon Jim Steranko.

“Today marks a celebration of many things for the company, not just an expansion to new offices,” said Radical Publishing’s President Barry Levine, who began his career as one of rock’s top photographers before becoming a music supervisor, film producer and comic book publisher; “not only having our books receive uniformly rave reviews across the industry and in the mainstream press, but we recently took Diamond Distribution’s Gem Award for Best New Publisher of the Year after only eight months on the stands. Things have been going great at Radical Publishing, and 2009 will see things only get better.”

Additional upcoming Radical titles feature some of the top names in the comics industry, including Rick Remender’s The Last Days of American Crime, David Hine’s FVZA: Federal Vampire and Zombie Agency and Nick Percival’s Legends. Current Radical titles on the stands include Hotwire: Requiem for the Dead from Steve Pugh and Warren Ellis, Mateki: The Magic Flute from celebrated Japanese painter Yoshitaka Amano (Vampire Hunter D, Neil Gaiman’s Sandman: The Dream Hunters), and the opening salvo of the epic Shrapnel trilogy, Aristeia Rising, from video game developer Zombie Studios and Nick Sagan. The year 2010 will also see Oblivion, Radical’s first illustrated novel from Joseph Kosinski (director of the buzz sequel TR2N at Disney), being written by Ian Edginton.

During the event, Radical Publishing’s Executive Vice President Jesse Berger delivered a toast to the guests, explaining his first time meeting Levine, mentioning the sacrifices that everyone in the company made to launch Radical, and thanking the more than 400 attendees for coming to celebrate this very special event.

About Radical Publishing

Radical Publishing is founded by BARRY LEVINE (Producer for HERCULES, CALIBER, FREEDOM FORMULA and Executive Producer for the in-development REX MUNDI movie from Warner Bros., written by JIM UHLS and starring JOHNNY DEPP); his protege JESSE BERGER (Executive Producer for HERCULES, CALIBER and FREEDOM FORMULA); and longtime writer/publisher DAVID ELLIOTT (Atomeka Press and Tundra Publishing).

Winner of the Diamond Comics Distribution's Gem Award for Best New Publisher of the Year, Radical brings the best writing, storytelling and fully painted cover and interior art to the global comic book market, from prominent international talents such as YOSHITAKA AMANO, JOHN BOLTON, LUIS ROYO, JIM STERANKO, STEVE PUGH, WARREN ELLIS, ARTHUR SUYDAM, STEVE NILES, MARKO DJURDJEVIC, IAN EDGINTON, DAVID HINE, RICK REMENDER, JOSEPH KOSINSKI, NICK PERCIVAL, STEVE MOORE, SAM SARKAR, STJEPAN SEJIC, DAVE WILKINS, TOMM COKER, CLAYTON CRAIN, BILL SIENKIEWICZ, NICK SAGAN, CLINT LANGLEY, NICK SIMMONS, PATRICK REILLY, WETA WORKSHOP, ZOMBIE STUDIOS and many more.

Radical Publishing currently has production deals with Universal Studios, Spyglass Entertainment, PETER BERG's Film 44 and Radical Pictures for HERCULES; JOHN WOO's Lion Rock Productions, JOHNNY DEPP's Infinitum Nihil and Radical Pictures for CALIBER; and BRYAN SINGER's Bad Hat Harry Productions and Radical Pictures for FREEDOM FORMULA.
JOHN BYRNE’S DANGER UNLIMITED AND BABE,

TOGETHER AGAIN… FOR THE FIRST TIME




(San Diego, February 26, 2009) -- It’s a union based on super powers, learning your place in the world, and danger!



In this latest collection of stories from the mind and pen of John Byrne, IDW packs two time-lost series together—Danger Unlimited and Babe.



First up is the four-part Danger Unlimited, the first universe and characters Byrne created after leaving Marvel. In DU, the year is 2061, and long ago alien forces conquered the Earth, making sure to eradicate all humans with super powers to ensure their continued reign over the planet. But an unexpected survivor from the past, and the powers he possesses, soon proves to be the catalyst needed to wretch control away from the invaders.



The super group Danger Unlimited is reborn, but their tale is far from over.



Jumping to the six-part Babe story, interstellar powers are conspiring for universal domination when a traitor within their ranks causes a massive explosion of energy. Troublesome for the warring alien factions, the dispersed energy beams are especially disrupting to five women traveling aboard an airplane that is struck by the beams. In that moment, five separate women are fused together to become one—Babe!



With no understanding of what events “made” her, or even that anything uncommon has transpired, the gorgeous (and quite nude) Babe turns up on an open road during a rainy night. Lucky for her, she’s discovered by Ralph Rowen, theatrical agent, who deposits her at the police station. But the next day Rowen discovers in the newspaper that his chief competitor, Gideon Longshadow, has “reclaimed” the missing starlet. And that’s how the adventures of Babe begin. How they end involves underground sentient alligators, interstellar wizards, and a heap of friends





Babe makes along the way, some of which will be familiar to fans of other former Legend titles. Oh, and we can’t forget Danger Unlimited, who make a special appearance at the end of Babe.



All in all, this full-color, 244 TPB does what no other book could do before—bring all of John Byrne's Danger Unlimited action together for the first time ever!



TPB • $19.99 • 244 pages • ISBN: 978-1-60010-363-6 • In stores March 4, 2009



About IDW Publishing

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

VIZ Media has received a last minute opportunity to support the WonderCon show (sister-show to San Deigo Comic-Con) in San Francisco this weekend as an exhibitor this year.

VIZ Media will be in booth # 835 highlighting our two expanding imprints - the VIZ Signature imprint and the VIZ KIDS imprint.

VIZ Signature is the company’s dynamic outlet for classic and literary manga titles aimed at more mature and sophisticated readers - some of the titles included are 20th CENTURY BOYS, PLUTO, BLACK LAGOON and VAGABOND among others.

Also featured at the show will be VIZ Media’s VIZKIDS imprint, which is designed for younger readers.
Some of those titles to be featured at the show include; POKÉMON, LEGEND OF ZELDA, DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION Chapter Books, NARUTO Chapter Books and more

Thursday, February 26, 2009

PRESS RELEASE - IMAGE COMICS BRINGS IT HOME THIS WONDERCON WEEKEND!Image Comics announces plans for their hometown show, including the greatest comic book cover of all time!
26 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - This weekend thousands of comic fans will flood San Francisco's Moscone Hall for WonderCon 2009 to meet their favorite creators and the publisher who brings it better than any other, the Bay Area's very own Image Comics!

"It’s always fun to travel to conventions, but nothing beats the hometown show," Image Comics Founder and Illustrator of the WonderCon Exclusive SAVAGE DRAGON #145 Erik Larsen said. "It may not be the biggest, but it’s certainly one of the best! Plus, it’s a particularly important con for me as this week marks the big relaunch of SAVAGE DRAGON! I’m excited to hear what the fans have to say about the big issue!”
Throughout the weekend Larsen along with VIKING's Ivan Brandon, ELEPHANTMEN's Richard Starkings & Moritat, DARKNESS' Michael Broussard and Top Cow Productions Publisher Filip Sablik and will be available at the Image Comics booth signing autographs and selling exclusive items! However, the convention doesn’t truly begin until Friday’s Image Comics Show at 3-4 PM in room 103 featuring Larsen, Starkings, THE GREAT UNKNOWN’s Duncan Rouleau and Champions Online writer John Layman with the first word on an all-new project! In addition, the already much coveted SAVAGE DRAGON #145 variant featuring President Barack Obama taking on Osama Bin Laden will be available starting Friday for a very limited amount of time with a select few fans randomly winning a copy during the Friday panel. If that’s not enough GODLAND’s Joe Casey, PHERONE’s Viktor Kalvachev, NEW BRIGHTON ARCHELOGICAL SOCIETY’s Mark Andrew Smith and many more will stop by the booth!

Image Comics can be found at booth #407 during Wondercon, February 27 - March 1st 2009, taking place in the San Francisco Moscone Center.

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.
FEMALE FORCE: SARAH PALIN SELLS OUT AND GETS SECOND PRINTING

Bluewater Productions is proud to announce that the comic book; FEMALE FORCE: SARAH PALIN has completely sold out and will be going back for a second printing.

“Due to the overwhelming demand for both the Palin and Clinton FEMALE FORCE issues, we are thrilled to have to run a second printing,” said Bluewater Productions publisher Darren G. Davis. “Despite our plan to over-print these titles the demand greatly exceeded our projections.”

These post order numbers occurred prior to the comics street release scheduled for of March 11. Comic book stores that have ordered this title will have them on the release date.

The 2nd printing of the comic will feature the same painted cover of Sarah Palin by Patricio Carbajal.

The comic book series has been featured on CNN, Fox News, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and numerous other media outlets.

The FEMALE FORCE: Sarah Palin title was printed using Bluewater’s new green printing philosophy.

We are getting close to selling out of the Hillary Clinton comic as well. The issue is still available to order through Diamond DCD item #: NOV083848. There is still time to order Female Force: Michelle Obama DCD ITEM # FEB094121. FEMALE FORCE: Caroline Kennedy will be released in June. 2009.



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.
ON MARCH 24, CINEVOLVE STUDIOS INVITES HOME VIEWERS

TO GO DEEP INSIDE THE WEIRD, WONDERFUL UNIVERSE

OF THE STAR WARS PHENOMENON




A GALAXY FAR FAR AWAY:

10TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTOR’S EDITION




Bonus Materials on This Special, Digitally-Remastered DVD ($19.95srp)

Include Hilarious Deleted Scenes, Both Original and All-New Audio Commentary, Special 10th Anniversary Interviews and MST3K-Style Video Commentary

with the Creators





Featured Interviews Include Samuel L. Jackson, Joe Pesci, Roger Corman,

Meat Loaf, Dennis Franz, Andy Garcia, Jimmy Kimmel, David Proust

(Darth Vader), Kenny Baker (R2-D2), Anthony Daniels (C3-PO),

Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) and More!




LOS ANGELES, CA – A little over three decades ago, Star Wars – the first entry in an epic franchise envisioned by George Lucas -- premiered at Mann’s Chinese Theater inLos Angeles. Few could have imagined the long-lasting impact it would have on worldwide pop culture that exists to this day. As of 2008, the six films alone have generated over $4.3 billion, making Star Wars one of the most successful franchises in entertainment history. Add to that the countless thousands of licensed products, and you have a powerful phenomenon that has captivated millions across the globe. And that’s only part of the story….





In 1999, as fanatics eagerly anticipated the release of Episode I, The Phantom Menace, director Tariq Jalil decided to explore this cross-generational phenomenon, so he turned his camera on the fans and the franchise like never before. Called “incredibly clever” by Film Threat, A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY shed light, for the first time into how Star Wars struck such a mysterious and powerful chord across all races, genders, and generations. And this March, Cinevolve Studios commemorates this crowd-pleasing documentary with A GALAXY FAR FAR AWAY: 10TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Loaded with enough extras to cram the hold of the Millennium Falcon, the digitally-remastered DVD will warp into stores on March 24 for $19.95srp.





Featuring interviews with hundreds of fans, movie executives, and high profile celebrities, A GALAXY FAR FAR AWAY delves into the franchise that has made household names of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, R2-D2 and C3PO. As a new wave of Star Wars mania was being induced in ‘99, Jalal brought his cameras to Star Wars conventions, to boisterous nationwide premieres, into the homes of devoted fans showing off their treasures and collectibles and captured those who spent 42 days on line, just to be first to see The Phantom Menace. Interviews and archival footage featured includes Samuel L. Jackson, Joe Pesci, genre filmmaker Roger Corman, Meat Loaf, Dennis Franz, Andy Garcia, Jimmy Kimmel and Star Wars alumnus David Proust (Darth Vader), Kenny Baker (R2-D2), Anthony Daniels (C3-PO) and Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca). Offering a complete, often hilarious, exploration of George Lucas’ crowning achievement that brings together a group of fascinating, passionate, hysterical -- and often touching – fans,

A GALAXY FAR FAR AWAY is not just a film about overzealous fanboys. Instead, it plumbs the depths of a common, shared love that knows no boundaries and seeks answers to a stunning phenomenon that continues to live on like Yoda.




Adding to the cosmically cool viewing of this special collector’s edition are out-of-this world DVD extras including hilarious deleted scenes; the original theatrical trailer; both original and all-new audio commentary by director Tariq Jalil and producer Terry Tocantins; 10th Anniversary on-camera interviews and MST3K-style video commentary featuring Jalil and Tocantins and more.




Cinevolve Studios, based in Los Angeles, was founded in 2007 by a collective of independent filmmakers and entertainment industry professionals with a common goal: to fill a niche as an innovative, filmmaker-friendly distributor offering compelling, critically-acclaimed and entertaining narrative feature films, documentaries and special interest products to consumers through a variety of distribution channels. Upcoming films include the Venezuelan Oscar® submission for Best Foreign Film, El Tinte de la Fama and 12 in a Box, an award-winning British black comedy, with a US theatrical release slated for June 2009. For more information, visit www.cinevolvestudios.com.





# # #





A GALAXY FAR FAR AWAY: 10TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTOR’S EDITION

Pre-order date: February 24, 2009 Genre: Documentary

Street date: March 24, 2009 SRP: $19.95

Rating: NR Catalog #: CS1002

Running Time: 80 mins. + extras Format: DVD/Single
PROFILES IN HISTORY AND AMERICAN CINEMATHEQUE AT THE EGYPTIAN THEATRE, HOLLYWOOD TO OFFER A SNEAK PEEK AT THE FORREST J ACKERMAN ESTATE AUCTION SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2009

Bela Lugosi's Dracula Ring, Cape, Costume From The Raven; Bram Stoker / Lugosi Signed First Edition Dracula Book and the "Maria" Robot and Fritz Lang's Monocle From Metropolis to be Displayed at Ackerman Tribute


Calabasas, CA, February 26, 2009 - Fans of the late legendary Horror and Sci-fi icon Forrest J (Forry) Ackerman (Please note: There is NO period after the "J") will have a chance to catch a glimpse at some of his most treasured items, as Profiles in History joins American Cinematheque at the Egyptian Theatre in their tribute to Ackerman on Sunday, March 8, 2009. Several major items will be on display during the tribute's opening reception, 3:00pm-4:00pm including the Dracula ring worn by Bela Lugosi as Count Dracula; Lugosi's robe from The Raven; a cape made for Lugosi in 1932 and used many times for his stage portrayal of Dracula as well as in Lugosi's performance in Plan 9 from Outer Space; a first edition of the book, Dracula signed by Bram Stoker and inscribed by Bela Lugosi to Forry Ackerman (also signed by a host of other Dracula-related personalities); the "Maria" robot from Metropolis and Fritz Lang's monocle, which he wore when he directed Metropolis and given to Forry by Lang.

These iconic pieces are just a few of the highlights of the 100's of items that make up the Forrest J Ackerman Estate Auction, which will be featured as part of the Profiles in History spring auction of Hollywood memorabilia set to take place April 30 and May 1, 2009. For more information about Profiles in History, please visit www.profilesinhistory.com.
PRESS RELEASE - ROB LIEFELD'S RETURN TO YOUNGBLOOD INSTANTANEOUSLY SELLS OUT!Liefeld's return to YOUNGBLOOD sells out in less than twelve hours!
25 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - Rob Liefeld's return to YOUNGBLOOD with President Barack Obama exploded with a nearly instantaneous sell-out despite a very significant over print.

"WOW! It's very exciting and a great honor to come back and the result be an instant sell out for the book! I'd also like to thank President Obama for picking such a great new line up for YOUNGBLOOD, obviously he has the magic touch," said Liefeld. "That said, YOUNGBLOOD #8 is just the prelude to a much larger story. If you liked it, you're going to be blown away by the next issue in May. Given YOUNGBLOOD's status as a government sanctioned superteam, you can bet on our nation's newest President being involved from the very beginning!"

The YOUNGBLOOD appearance by President Obama marks the very beginning of Liefeld's return to his seminal creation. Starting in May, Rob will return to the book in full force, full time as he takes over the writing and illustrating duties to present a whole new direction for the team. This news comes on the heels of mega-director Brett Ratner (X-MEN 3, RUSH HOUR) announcing he'll be taking the reins of the upcoming YOUNGBLOOD feature film.

YOUNGBLOOD #8 2nd Printing, a 32-page full color comic book for $2.99, will be in-stores March 11th, 2009.

Image Comics is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Since that time, Image has gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. There are currently five partners in Image Comics (Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino), and Image is currently divided into four major houses (Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, and Image Central). Image comics and graphic novels cover nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable, offering science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor, and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. Visit www.imagecomics.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – FEBRUARY 25th, 2009

Oni Press is in San Francisco for this year's WonderCon! February 17th - March 1st we'll be strutting our stuff at booth #519. Come by and check out our eclectic library of titles including the premiere of:

NORTH WORLD VOLUME 2: THE EPIC OF CONRAD

by Lars Brown

Conrad's given up his life of action and adventure and become an accountant -- and in the middle of a quest, no less! But can our intrepid hero truly leave his days of swords and battle behind him or will he finish the job the guild sent him to his hometown to complete? It's a clash of family loyalty and heroic destiny in the conclusion of the Epic of Conrad!

To celebrate the release of the eagerly anticipated next chapter of the North World Series Oni Press is pleased to announce the following events and specials:

EXCLUSIVE EXTENDED PREVIEW AT iFANBOY.COM!

Going live Friday the 27th to correspond with the WonderCon premier of the book, check out this gigantic preview of NORTH WORLD VOL. 2 exclusively at ifanboy.com!

LIMITED PRINTING NORTH WORLD SHIRTS!

Printed specially for the release of NORTH WORLD VOL. 2 these tees tell the world what you're packing. It may not be much, but it's all you need in North World! Only available at the Oni Press booth during WonderCon, while supplies last.

WONDERCON SIGNINGS

Oni Press is pleased to announce the following signings throughout the weekend at booth #519 during scheduled times. Please check the Oni Press website at www.onipress.com, or come by the booth during the convention to see that day's signing schedule.

Lars Brown (North World)

John Layman (Stephen Colbert's Tek Jansen)

Ray Fawkes (The Apocalipstix)

Chuck BB (Black Metal)

Chynna Clugston (Blue Monday)

Ted Naifeh (Courtney Crumrin)

ONI PRESS ON PANELS!

Friday, 1:00-2:00 in room Room 232/234: Oni Press Up and Coming!
Staff members and creators from Oni Press (the publisher of many great comics and graphic novels like Queen & Country, Scott Pilgrim, Courtney Crumrin, Stephen Colbert's Tek Jansen, and North World) present a look at upcoming projects, make exciting announcements, and give away free stuff! Room 232/234
PRESS RELEASE - ERIK LARSEN CREATES THE GREATEST COMIC BOOK COVER OF ALL TIME FOR WONDERCON'S EXCLUSIVE SAVAGE DRAGON #145!Wondercon exclusive SAVAGE DRAGON #145 variant may be the best cover ever illustrated!
24 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - Fans attending this year's WonderCon are in for a treat as the convention will exclusively feature the greatest comic book cover of all time, SAVAGE DRAGON #145!

"I had no idea what I was getting into, but the moment I finished the cover I told myself: 'Erik, you just created the greatest comic book cover of all time' and it turns out I was totally right," Erik Larsen said. "Lets face it, President Barack Obama punching out Osama Bin Laden with a huge American flag in one hand while Savage Dragon frees Lady Liberty from a Weapon of Mass Destruction is as good as it's ever going to get."

Despite Larsen's humble nature, the WonderCon variant will no doubt be the greatest comic book cover ever printed, due in no short order to our nation's 44th President kicking the ass of his greatest nemesis. The cover's status is augmented by the fact a very limited run of 1000 will be made available and never reprinted. Fans wishing to purchase a copy can only do so by attending San Francisco's WonderCon.

The SAVAGE DRAGON #145 WonderCon Exclusive will only be available at the Image Comics booth at WonderCon, February 27th, 28th and March 1st.

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.
Greetings, Just a note to let you know I've posted a review of the first volume of Naoki Urasawa's Pluto up at my blog.

http://robvollmar.blogspot.com/2009/02/review-pluto-vol-1.html

Rob Vollmar- a writer of and about comics and manga

Blogs:

Ramble On- Comics and manga reviews and criticism @
http://robvollmar.blogspot.com/

Liberal Artistry- Blogging the Great Books of the Western World with my wife Kendra @ http://liberalartistry.blogspot.com
Telltale Continues Expansion to Xbox Live® Arcade with Acclaimed Sam & Max Game Series

Xbox LIVE® joins PC and Wii as new channel for "gaming's first sitcom"



SAN RAFAEL, CA, February 26, 2009 - The dog and rabbity-thing stars of Telltale's popular episodic games are one step closer to world domination today with the announcement that the first two "seasons" of Sam & Max will be appearing on Xbox LIVE Arcade. This is the award-winning comedy duo's first appearance on the Xbox 360, as well as on a connected console download service. Worldwide PC and Wii retail releases of the second season are also upcoming.



These approaching releases will sport catchy new monikers to more closely tie the season titles with their respective story arcs. Season One, which takes the Freelance Police from the New York City streets to Washington D.C. and all the way to the moon on the trail of a hypnotic nemesis, will be dubbed Sam & Max Save the World for all new releases moving forward. Season Two, which involves a baffling series of time paradoxes at the hands of unconventional aliens, has been renamed Sam & Max Beyond Time and Space. The Xbox LIVE Arcade releases will carry these new titles, as will Atari's 2009 retail versions of the second season.



"With Sam & Max coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade and the approaching retail launch, we're reaching a larger audience than we ever have before," says Telltale CEO Dan Connors. "These new releases give us an opportunity to better communicate the imaginative stories that make the Sam & Max games so special, and to strengthen the unique identity of each season."



Both Sam & Max seasons will be released on Xbox LIVE Arcade as full-season bundles, providing instant gratification to players who have been eagerly waiting for the Freelance Police to appear on Microsoft's console. The second Sam & Max season -- which recently received Best Adventure Game accolades from IGN and PC Gamer and took home five Aggie Awards, including Best Comedy Writing, Best Gameplay, and Game of the Year from Adventure Gamers -- is also scheduled to hit retail for PC and Wii in the coming months.



Today's news follows Telltale's recent announcement that the highly anticipated new series, Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures, is leading the company's expansion to Xbox LIVE Arcade. For more details about Sam & Max, Wallace & Gromit, and Telltale's other games, please visit http://www.telltalegames.com.





About Sam & Max
Sam is a six-foot dog in a baggy suit sporting a trombone-sized .44 hand-cannon. Max is a three foot "rabbity thing" with a saw blade grin and the impulsive nature of the average piranha. Together they patrol the sticky streets of a fantastical New York City, righting wrongs, pummeling perps, and ridding the urban landscape of the shifty legions of "self-propelled gutter trash" that litter their streets. Sam & Max have appeared in comics, video games, an animated TV series recently reissued on DVD, and an Eisner award-winning webcomic.



About Telltale, Inc.
Telltale is a pioneer of new forms of interactive entertainment that build upon strong foundations in traditional and new media. Founded in 2004 by video game industry veterans with decades of experience, Telltale has quickly become the leading online episodic gaming publisher and developer, delivering award-winning interactive experiences that showcase engaging stories, compelling characters, and rich worlds. Telltale has created a regular, ongoing schedule of established online episodic series across all major gaming and entertainment platforms and channels.

Telltale's games include the award-winning Sam & Max episodic series; Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People, the first episodic series for WiiWare based on the Homestarrunner.com Flash cartoons; and Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures, coming soon to Xbox Live Arcade and PC. Telltale also has created games based on television's popular CSI series in partnership with Ubisoft, and on Jeff Smith's epic Bone graphic novels. Telltale has built a robust digital distribution channel at www.telltalegames.com, and also publishes its games with select partners.
RADICAL COMICS SOLICITS:

CHOLLY AND FLYTRAP: CENTER CITY
(Hardcover)

ISBN: 0-9802335-4-2
ISBN-13: 978-0-9802335-4-4
Price: $19.95 (C: $21.99)

Writer and illustrator ARTHUR SUYDAM

Size: 7 x 11
Page Count: 156
Format: Hardcover, Full Color
Cover Artist: ARTHUR SUYDAM

The classic noir action-adventure from comics superstar ARTHUR SUYDAM (Marvel Zombies), now collected for the first time, with new hand-painted colors by the creator himself! Center City remains the belly-button lint of surviving society, a final human outpost oozing crime and racial tension between man and machine. Enter Cholly and Flytrap, who become caught in the crossfire between the city’s two power brokers: the Siamese-twin Hobbs Brothers and paranoid paraplegic millionaire Ameil Luvitz. When sumo-master Flytrap is mistakenly shanghaied and forced into slavery in a secret fight world, his partner Cholly’s odyssey to rescue him from certain doom begins. A groundbreaking and compelling epic told by an ultimate storyteller, now in a deluxe hardcover edition!




CITY OF DUST: A PHILIP KHROME STORY
(Trade Paperback)

ISBN: 0-9802335-5-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-9802335-5-1
Price: $19.95 (C: $21.99)

Writer STEVE NILES
Artist ZID, GARRIE GASTONNY and BRANDON CHNG
Colorist BUDDY JIANG, LEOS NG “OKITA” and SIXTH CREATION
Letterer CHRIS ELIOPOULOS

Size: 6 5/8 X 10 3/16
Page Count: 144
Format: TPB, Full Color
Cover Artist: CLINT LANGLEY

Collecting the critically acclaimed five-issue miniseries from the dark mind of 30 Days of Night creator STEVE NILES! A chilling vision of the future reveals a world where police now patrol for Crimes of the Imagination, including stories of fiction, fable and religion. Homicide detective Philip Khrome doesn't enforce Imagination...but when a brutal killing spree strikes his city, Khrome finds himself face to face with a perpetrator who has merged reality with superstition—and society itself may hang in the balance.

Lauded by Ain't It Cool News as “another impressive debut in both story and art,” this deluxe trade paperback edition features an interview with Niles, a stunning new cover by painter Clint Langley, production renderings and a cover gallery by Langley, Arthur Suydam, Nick Percival, and more!




HOTWIRE: REQUIEM FOR THE DEAD #4
Created by STEVE PUGH and WARREN ELLIS
Based on a story by WARREN ELLIS
Written and illustrated by STEVE PUGH
28 pages, FC, $2.99
4 covers, one each by Steve Pugh, Jelena Djurdjevic and Garry Leach along with a wraparound cover by Alan Brooks

Hotwire #4 Cover A – Steve Pugh
Hotwire #4 Cover B – Jelena Djurdjevic
Hotwire #4 Cover C – Garry Leach
Hotwire #4 Wraparound Cover D – Alan Brooks

From the revolutionary storytelling of Steve Pugh and Warren Ellis comes the electrifying climax! What do you do when your city is under siege from a riot, your personal war against the "blue lights" has spun into all-out chaos, and all the good choices are long gone? If you're Alice Hotwire, you risk everything to face the horror of Amir Malik and uncover a truth that could both save the city—and destroy it at the same time.




SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING #5
Creators MARK LONG & NICK SAGAN
Writer M. ZACHARY SHERMAN
Artist BAGUS HUTOMO

52 pages for only $2.99!, FC, May
2 covers, one cover by Marko Djurdjevic and one cover by Bruno Werneck

Shrapnel #5 Cover A – Marko Djurdjevic
Shrapnel #5 Cover B – Bruno Werneck

The planet-shattering conclusion! The war for galactic freedom reaches its final moments as the Alliance Marines storm through the militia's resistance. Faced with imminent defeat, Sam realizes that their only hope lies with the one person who understands the Marines well enough to destroy them utterly: herself.
The first of an epic, three part story arc, “Storm Over Ryloth” begins an in-depth look at the emotional tolls of the galactic conflict, as well as the price of failure when lives hang in the balance. The all-new episode of the hit animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS premieres at 9 p.m. ET/PT Friday, February 27, on Cartoon Network.



In the episode, the heroes of the Republic begin their campaign to free the planet Ryloth from the oppressive occupation of enemy forces. In an effort to break through the orbiting Separatist defenses, however, Ahsoka must learn a hard-hitting lesson after she disobeys Anakin’s orders – and loses most of her squadron as a result.



Director Brian Kalin O’Connell and writer George Krstic welcomed the opportunity to explore some of the less heroic aspects of the conflict, particularly examining the responsibility of the Jedi in light of the consequences of their actions.



“It’s easy to make the Jedi into superheroes, but showing their vulnerability really makes them far more interesting and believable,” O’Connell says. “You have this Padawan in the footsteps of the Chosen One. And she fails – badly. Clones die, and that’s horrible – and we really get to feel that weight. But we also get to see how Anakin rebuilds Ahsoka’s confidence, and how she comes back and rises to the challenge.”



Krstic agrees, adding that the episode offered an opportunity to infuse the Saga’s classic space opera elements with a new emotional weight.



“This is a very epic episode – it’s grand and operatic ala the old days of the original Star Wars,” he says. “There are so many wonderful aspects to this episode because Ahsoka must deal with real life and death situations, and the result isn’t good. She gets her first experience dealing with the burden of command, and finds out that it isn’t all heroics. It really is a burden.”



As the beginning of a three-part story arc, “Storm Over Ryloth” expands the scope of the Clone Wars to illustrate both the far-reaching and intimate effects of the war. Tackling ambiguities and exploring emotional motivations and consequences, this episode sets the stage for “Innocents of Ryloth” and “Liberty of Ryloth,” the continuation and conclusion of the thrilling Ryloth saga.
Radical offers 4-day San Diego Comic-Con passes at WonderCon



February 24th, 2009 – For WonderCon 2009, Radical Publishing will hold multiple raffles and giveaways Friday and Saturday at booth #621, featuring Grand Prizes that include four-day San Diego Comic-Con passes with special, exclusive access to Radical's creators and signings at the July show.



Radical will also feature WonderCon signings with special guests Steve Niles, creator and writer of the sci-fi/horror hybrid hit City of Dust: A Philip Khrome Story; Sam Sarkar, creator and writer of the sellout flagship Radical series Caliber: First Canon of Justice; and M. Zachary Sherman, writer of the critically acclaimed sci-fi epic Shrapnel: Aristeia Rising.



Fans that visit the Radical booth Friday and Saturday can pick up a raffle ticket to become eligible for a Grand Prize (limit one ticket per person). On Sunday, the first 100 fans to bring their raffle tickets to the booth will also receive a signed, limited-edition 3-D Radical Preview Book that showcases the work of Jim Steranko, Arthur Suydam, John Bolton, Clint Langley, Simon Bisley, Clayton Crain and more, along with featured interviews with Steve Niles, Rick Remender and Nick Simmons, star of the hit A&E series Gene Simmons Family Jewels. In addition, Radical will also give out hourly prizes of signed Radical comics, T-shirts and hoodies throughout the weekend.



WonderCon runs Feb. 27 to March 1 at the Moscone Center South in San Francisco. The full lineup of Radical Publishing's events for the show can be found below.



Radical Publishing

Booth #621



Guests and Signings:



Steve Niles (City of Dust)

Sam Sarkar (Caliber)

M. Zachary Sherman (Shrapnel)



Grand Prizes: Friday and Saturday Only



Each day: One pair (2) General Four-day Attendee Badges for San Diego Comic-Con 2009, including special, exclusive access to Radical's creators and signings!



Hourly Prizes: Friday – Saturday – Sunday



One set of: Radical comic book series, T-shirt and hoodie

(One signed series of Caliber by Sam Sarkar or City of Dust by Steve Niles)



Special Sunday-Only Prizes



First 100 people to bring back the Radical raffle ticket will receive a signed, limited- edition 3-D Radical 2009 Preview Book!





Signing Schedule



FRIDAY, FEB. 27 (Open 12 noon to 7 p.m.)



1 p.m. to 2 p.m.



M. ZACHARY SHERMAN will sign copies of SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



4 p.m. to 5 p.m.



M. ZACHARY SHERMAN will sign copies of SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.







SATURDAY, FEB. 28 (Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.)



1 p.m. to 2 p.m.



M. ZACHARY SHERMAN will sign copies of SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.



STEVE NILES will sign copies of CITY OF DUST: A PHILIP KHROME STORY and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



SAM SARKAR will sign copies of CALIBER: FIRST CANON OF JUSTICE and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



M. ZACHARY SHERMAN will sign copies of SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



5 p.m. to 6 p.m.



STEVE NILES will sign copies of CITY OF DUST: A PHILIP KHROME STORY and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



SAM SARKAR will sign copies of CALIBER: FIRST CANON OF JUSTICE and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.





SUNDAY, MARCH 1 (Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)



From 12 p.m. to 1 P.M



STEVE NILES will sign copies of CITY OF DUST: A PHILIP KHROME STORY and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



SAM SARKAR will sign copies of CALIBER: FIRST CANON OF JUSTICE and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



From 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.



SAM SARKAR will sign copies of CALIBER: FIRST CANON OF JUSTICE and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.



M. ZACHARY SHERMAN will sign copies of SHRAPNEL: ARISTEIA RISING and the Radical Publishing Preview Book.





ABOUT RADICAL PUBLISHING

Radical Publishing is founded by BARRY LEVINE (Producer for HERCULES, CALIBER, FREEDOM FORMULA and Executive Producer for the in-development REX MUNDI movie from Warner Bros., written by JIM UHLS and starring JOHNNY DEPP); his protege JESSE BERGER (Executive Producer for HERCULES, CALIBER and FREEDOM FORMULA); and longtime writer/publisher DAVID ELLIOTT (Atomeka Press and Tundra Publishing).

Winner of the Diamond Comics Distribution's Gem Award for Best New Publisher of the Year, Radical brings the best writing, storytelling and fully painted cover and interior art to the global comic book market, from prominent international talents such as YOSHITAKA AMANO, JOHN BOLTON, LUIS ROYO, JIM STERANKO, STEVE PUGH, WARREN ELLIS, ARTHUR SUYDAM, STEVE NILES, MARKO DJURDJEVIC, IAN EDGINTON, DAVID HINE, RICK REMENDER, JOSEPH KOSINSKI, NICK PERCIVAL, STEVE MOORE, SAM SARKAR, STJEPAN SEJIC, DAVE WILKINS, TOMM COKER, CLAYTON CRAIN, BILL SIENKIEWICZ, NICK SAGAN, CLINT LANGLEY, NICK SIMMONS, PATRICK REILLY, WETA WORKSHOP, ZOMBIE STUDIOS and many more.

Radical Publishing currently has production deals with Universal Studios, Spyglass Entertainment, PETER BERG's Film 44 and Radical Pictures for HERCULES; JOHN WOO's Lion Rock Productions, JOHNNY DEPP's Infinitum Nihil and Radical Pictures for CALIBER; and BRYAN SINGER's Bad Hat Harry Productions and Radical Pictures for FREEDOM FORMULA.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

PRESS RELEASE - THE NEW ERA OF YOUNGBLOOD BEGINS TOMORROW COURTESY OF SERIES CREATOR ROB LIEFELD AND PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA!The future of Youngblood starts now as Rob Liefeld returns!

24 February 2009 (Berkeley, CA) - The bold new era of YOUNGBLOOD begins tomorrow as series creator Rob Liefeld takes the reins and reveals President Barack Obama's shocking lineup of the long-running superhero team!

"Since YOUNGBLOOD's very first issue back in 1992, the series has always had a real world, political connection by taking on such issues as the first Iraq war and really exploring just what it would mean to be a government sanctioned superteam," Liefeld said. "Bringing Obama into the picture is a necessary extension of YOUNGBLOOD's history and I couldn't imagine a better way to start my full-time return to the series."

YOUNGBLOOD began the Image revolution in early 1992 and was the first creator-owned comic book to sell over a million copies right out of the gate by bringing a whole new perspective to what superhero comics were capable of. Rob's creations took the medium by storm by influencing an entire generation of creators and, most recently, Brett Ratner as the famed director behind such blockbuster films as Rush Hour and X3 announced he will be taking the property to new heights by kick-starting the YOUNGBLOOD film franchise. Tomorrow's issue not only features a six-page back up story setting up Rob Liefeld's full-time return to the series with May's YOUNGBLOOD #9, but also an already much coveted variant cover featuring our nation's 44th President.

YOUNGBLOOD #8, a 32-page full color comic book for $2.99, will be in-stores tomorrow.

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.
ASYLUM PRESS INVADES WONDERCON



PUBLISHER TO HAVE NEW EDITIONS OF WARLASH, STEVE MANNION'S THE BOMB, EXCLUSIVE PREVIEWS OF UPCOMING BOOKS,



Feb. 25, 2009 (Los Angeles) Asylum Press sets up ship at Wondercon to spread the insanity. Frank Forte will be present to sign books and do sketches. Elizabeth J. Musgrave will be on hand to signed issue #1 of her new graphic Novel Farmhouse, illustrated by Szymon (Zombie Cop) Kudranski. To see more of the Asylum Press line up visit www.asylumpress.com or both # 414 at the show.

Look no further if you have been having trouble filling up your collection with back issues from Asylum. They will have the entire catalog featuring Warlash:Dark Noir, The Asylum of Horrors, The Bomb, The Vampire Verses, Hex of the Wicked Witch, Billy Boy, Satan's Circus of Hell, DTOX and others available for purchase at their booth. In addition get the latest in hot babes and cold flesh as Asylum Press will also be carrying the latest Girls and Corpses magazines. Unfamiliar with the Girls and Corpses magazine? Check out www.girlsandcorpses.com.



Want to join the Asylum Press mailing list? Retailers and consumers should email asylumpress@aol.com. To find out more information about WonderCon visit http://www.comic-con.org/wc/.



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. Asylum Press is distributed by Diamond Comics, Haven Distributors and Partners Publishers Group. Asylum Press can be found on the web at:www.asylumpress.com



ABOUT WONDERCON



WonderCon returns to Moscone Center South on Februrary 27 through March 1 for another three-day, history-making event. With an attendance of over 29,000 last year, the second largest comics convention on the West Coast (after Comic-Con International) experienced its largest ever leap in attendance. Like its big sister show to the south, WonderCon combines the worlds of comics and the popular arts to offer a lively and exciting mix of shopping and stargazing. Here's your chance to meet some of your favorite comics writers and artists and see Hollywood stars up close!
A new comics blog for kidsPAPERCUTZ BLOG STARTS FEBRUARY 23
NANCY DREW, TALES FROM THE CRYPT, and Lego BIONICLE® graphic novelists chat about creating stories and art



Starting Monday, February 23, kids can go online to www.papercutz.com/blog and interact with the creators of some of their favorite comic books and graphic novels. Papercutz -- a leading publisher of comics for kids and teenagers -- has arranged for the writers and artists behind its NANCY DREW, TALES FROM THE CRYPT, BIONICLE, and other books to talk with readers about how they create the comics.

The participants will include:

From BIONICLE: Greg Farshtey, creator of BIONICLE and writer of the graphic novels.

From NANCY DREW: Writer Stefan Petrucha and artist Sho Murase.

From THE HARDY BOYS: Writer Scott Lobdell and artist Paulo Henrique.

From TALES FROM THE CRYPT: Writer-editor Jim Salicrup.

And, from time to time, a surprise guest or two.

In addition to comments from the books’ creators, the Papercutz blog will feature news features about upcoming Papercutz comics and advance word of events such as the appearances of Papercutz creators at comic-book conventions. If you want to know what’s going on, you’ll have to visit the Papercutz blog.



In keeping with Papercutz’s tradition of presenting comics that kids can enjoy and parents can trust, the Papercutz blog will be completely safe for kids.



Papercutz, is a leading producer of graphic novels. In addition to NANCY DREW, THE HARDY BOYS, TALES FROM THE CRYPT, and BIONICLE, Papercutz also publishes the CLASSICS ILLUSTRATED comics line and other kid-friendly publications.



SEE PREVIEWS AND MORE AT WWW.PAPERCUTZ.COM



You can order through NBM Publishing at 800-886-1223.

For previews and more, visit www.papercutz.com and http://www.myspace.com/papercutzcomics
IDW’S SECOND COLLECTION OF BRIAN HIBBS’ “TILTING AT WINDMILLS” COLUMNS FEATURES NEW COVER ART BY BEN TEMPLESMITH



(San Diego, CA; February 24, 2009) Brian Hibbs joins IDW Publishing for the second collection of his influential column “Tilting at Windmills.”
Owner of San Francisco’s premier comic book store, Comix Experience, Hibbs provides a dynamic and useful guide for new and established retailers who sell comics. Tilting at Windmills Volume 1, also available from IDW, was a startlingly prescient look at the rise and fall of the comics industry in the ‘90’s. Tilting at Windmills Volume 2 is sure to prove as insightful and colorful a read as Hibbs tackles topics as controversial and varied as book market sales, “event” storylines, and the influence of Manga on modern comics.



Volume 2 collects the final columns from its initial run in the trade magazine Comics and Game Retailer, and includes 50 articles from its current run on the popular entertainment website, Newsarama. As one of the most vocal and experienced retailers currently specializing in comics, Hibbs offers a unique perspective on the industry. From his detailed analysis of direct market sales figures, to in depth discussions of content, Hibbs is not afraid to buck mainstream trends or critique the current industry models.



As Hibbs points out in his introduction, “…comics have come to be regarded as a vibrant field, loved by academics and artists alike, discussed and reviewed in previously forbidden bastions like The New York Times, and can be found nearly everywhere that books are available.”



Whether it’s a business guidebook or a history of the comic book world, Tilting at Windmills Volume 2 is an accessible and engaging read, and a thoughtful as well as entertaining look at an industry that’s always striving to make a difference.



Tilting at Windmills Volume 2 goes on sale March 11, 2009



TPB • 6” x 9” • 400 Pages • $19.99 • 978-1-60010-370-4



About IDW Publishing

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

This June Bluewater’s flagship title “Legend of Isis” will launch a new ongoing series. The series will start off as Isis’ life is getting back to normal when a mysterious package arrives at her doorstep, leading her toward a battle with the gruesome Scarab Queen! The series will also be the launching pad for the upcoming Bluewater series “Tony & Cleo”. The 1st arch of the “Legend of Isis” series will be written by AE Stueve and drawn by Ivan Barriga.

Also coming soon will be the release of the “Legend of Isis” trade paperback featuring the popular and sold out “Dogs of War” storyline. This trade is scheduled to street in April.

One of the hottest selling characters of 2002 from IMAGE COMICS comes home to Bluewater Productions. Trapped 5,000 years out of time, the would-be Egyptian Goddess, Isis, must adjust to her new life in 21st century Los Angeles. Using her mystical staff and some help from a few new friends, Isis will protect those around her from evil that may threaten their world. But how can she protect a world that she doesn't fully understand?

"I tried to take a classic approach to Isis, telling pulp style stories that would appeal to anyone who likes comics", said writer AE Stueve.

“Legend of Isis” has been optioned by Paramount Pictures and soon to be a feature film!



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.

Monday, February 23, 2009

BLEED YOUR HEART OUT POST-VALENTINE’S DAY!
LUNAR LEGEND TSUKIHIME VOL 6, DARK EDGE VOL. 10, AND DIVINE MELODY
VOL. 1, AVAILABLE NOW!!!

SAN JOSE, CA– February 2009 – DrMaster has just announced the
publication of Lunar Legend Tsukihime volume 6 by TYPE-MOON &
sasakishonen, Dark Edge volume 10 by Yu Aikawa, and a new fantasy
shojo series by I-Huan, Divine Melody volume 1.

Lunar Legend Tsukihime vol. 6
The violent bloody action continues in volume six, when Shiki loses
control of his senses and reveals his true “monster” nature within
him as he goes on a mad killing spree. Subsequently, Shiki begins to
recall fragments of his childhood memories, which reveal some
important secrets of the Tohno family. And just when Shiki collapses
from his deranged state, Roa appears with the intention of killing
him, but Akiha tries desperately to protect Shiki.

Dark Edge vol. 10
Death falls upon Yotsuji High School daily with each visit of
nightfall… Kurou Takagi carries the Nosferatu seed that allows him
to become the King of the Nosferatu and control the Evil Gene-
carrying Nosferatu race. Kurou and friends finally commence their
capture of the school… but now that Shirou Touyama has been
awakened, something bad will certainly happen.

Divine Melody vol. 1
Cai-Sheng is a young celestial fox demon being raised by a bevy of
wild fox demons, who hope she will master the celestial ability to
transform into a male and save them from extinction. One day, she
sneaks out to the nearby village, where she befriends a little boy
and girl. When they save Cai-Sheng from a dog attack, her caretaker
marks them with special symbols that will not disappear until Cai-
Sheng repays her debt to them. 200 years later, Cai-Sheng meets the
reincarnated boy and girl, and decides to repay her debt to them by
trying to match-make the pair. But things get complicated when the
reincarnated girl falls in love with Cai-Sheng’s male form!


Availability
All three titles are available NOW, and will each be priced at $9.95.
Visit www.drmasterbooks.com for more detailed series information.

About DrMaster Publicatiions Inc.:
DrMaster Publications Inc. is a uniquely quirky publishing company
that was started in 2004. Specializing in bringing interesting
graphic novels from Japan and China, across the Pacific for American
audiences, DrMaster Publications offers a myriad of titles to cater
to its various niche readers. The company is what some may call a
boutique publisher, which tailors each its titles to suit every
reader’s unique desires. Ranging from side-splitting comedies and
heart-wrenching dramas to explosive action adventures and enchanting
fantasies, DrMaster books provide a glimpse into a new realm as seen
through the eyes of the authors and artists. You don’t just read a
DrMaster book-it jolts you to life, as you are propelled through the
pages.

Please visit www.drmasterbooks.com for information on our current and
upcoming titles. And feel free to tour the site. Regular updates will
follow as our line of “masterful” comic series expands.

About DGN Productions International:
DGN Productions (Digital Graphic Novel Productions) is a production
company and studio made up of industry veterans within the comics and
video game industries. Through strategic licensing of key comic book
titles and the use of recognized industry professionals within the
fields of animation and video game development, DGN Pro. Intl. is
dedicated to producing cutting-edge video games, comics and animated
features adapted from some the biggest and brightest in Hong Kong,
Japanese and Korean comic book properties. DGN Productions Intl. was
founded June 2004 and is based in Fremont, California.


Lunar Legend Tsukihime vol. 6
ISBN: 978-1-59796-172-1
Price: $9.95
B/W

Dark Edge vol. 10
ISBN: 978-1-59796-053-3
Price: $9.95
B/W


Divine Melody vol. 1
ISBN: 978-1-59796-173-8
Price: $9.95
B/W
BOOM! STUDIOS WORLD PREMIERE

Mark Waid's IRREDEEMABLE: THE TRAILER


LOS ANGELES- February 23rd, 2009 - BOOM! Studios is proud to premiere the trailer to IRREDEEMABLE, Mark Waid's hotly anticipated new ongoing superhero series that debuts this April.

The trailer for IRREDEEMABLE can be found on YouTube right now and was cut by Craig Kennedy at CK Creative. You can see the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnh7rj7iJ6s

"Here is potentially the biggest independent title of this year," said retailer Ed Greenberg of Collector's Paradise in Winnetka, California. "This will be the BOYS of this year, on a much more serious level. This will be the WANTED of this year, and the KICK-ASS and the PAX ROMANA of this year."




Mark Waid's IRREDEEMABLE launches this April and will feature variant covers by John Cassaday (ASTONISHING X-MEN, PLANETARY) and Barry Kitson (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN) in a 75/25 split with a 1-in-50 incentive cover signed by Mark Waid. IRREDEEMABLE sports interior art is by Peter Krause, who is best known for his run on POWER OF SHAZAM. Issue #1 will also feature a special afterword by Grant Morrison. IRREDEEMABLE is currently available for pre-order from the Diamond Previews Catalog with an order code of FEB094134.

"In superhero comics, pretty much everyone who's called upon to put on a cape is, at heart, emotionally equipped for the job. I reject that premise," said series writer and BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Mark Waid. "IRREDEEMABLE is, in a way, my third and most complex chapter on the cost of superheroics - a pulp adventure tale of horror exploring how the lessons we learn about right and wrong as children can become warped and twisted when challenged by the realities of the adult world."





About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (http://www.boom-studios.com) is a unique 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.
BOOM!@WONDERCON 2009
BOOTH #619

BREAKING NEWS:
SURPRISE BOOM! GUEST FARSCAPE WRITER KEITH R.A. DECANDIDO
KEITH WILL BE SIGNING FARSCAPE #1 WONDERCON HOLOFOIL EXCLUSIVE - LIMITED TO 500 COPIES!

BOOM! STUDIOS PANEL:
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT FROM MARK WAID THE BIGGEST NEWS OF THE SHOW WILL HAPPEN AT THIS PANEL DO NOT MISS!



Here is the current schedule of events:

WONDERCON BOOM! STUDIOS SIGNINGS:
Please check the BOOM! Studios booth #619 for signing times for the following guests:

Keith R.A. DeCandido will be signing FARSCAPE #1 WonderCon Aeryn Sun Holofoil Exclusive - Limited to 500 copies!
Michael Alan Nelson will be signing HEXED and FALL OF CTHULHU
Chip Mosher will be signing LEFT ON MISSION
WONDERCON BOOM! STUDIOS PANEL:


WHEN: FEBRUARY 27, Friday, 2008 from 5:00-6:00
WHERE: ROOM: 232/234
DESCRIPTION: BIG! BOLD! BOOM! - E-i-C Mark Waid (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, IRREDEEMABLE), Publisher Ross Richie, Marketing and Sales Director Chip Mosher (LEFT ON MISSION), and a very special guest reveal what will be the biggest news coming out of WonderCon. Dare we say anymore

About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (http://www.boom-studios.com) is a unique 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.
WORLD DOMO-NATION!

Dark Horse, Toy2R, and Big Tent Entertainment

Unveil New Line of Blind-Box Figures

Featuring Japanese Internet Sensation Domo



NEW YORK, NEW YORK (February 20, 2009)--At Toy Fair 2009, Dark Horse unveiled plans to produce a set of blind-box figures scheduled to release this July. The 2.5” figures will be created in conjunction with Toy2R as part of their Qee program, and will feature the likeness of Domo, the iconic viral superstar who was first introduced to the world in 1998 by Japanese Broadcaster, NHK and is represented world-wide (ex- Asia) by Big Tent Entertainment.

Packaging is "blind box," in which individual figures are packed in small boxes; the only way to know which particular figure is inside a particular box is to purchase and open the box. In the Domo blind box assortment, figures are sold in counter displays of 15, and each display box of 15 figures is further packed into a master carton of four cases.

In addition, each individual figure contains a component of a special “Build-A-Domo” transparent figure. By assembling six of these components, a new variant figure is created by the consumer. Each counter display contains enough pieces for two of these; each master carton yields ten of this special item when all the pieces are assembled.

Chase figures are being produced in addition to the common figures in the Domo assortment; with a total of 15 different versions with various levels of scarcity. See the graphic for exact details

Blind box packaging with the addition of chase figures creates an element of chance in purchasing the Domo Qee toys, and prompts some collectors to trade figures among themselves to complete their collections.

Starting from a very unusual place as an advertising icon, Domo’s unique look and personality has catapulted the character from 400 television spots in Japan into one of the Internet’s biggest sensations, sparking worldwide recognition. As the poster child for personalized, user-generated content, Domo has been able to transition from popularity within Japan to a worldwide following, spawning countless fan-made images, websites and videos, along with a first-ever licensed product line including plush, toys, fashion and collectibles selling at major trend retailers nationwide. Most recently, Domo has taken America by storm, being featured prominently at major retailers all over the U.S. and even starring in his first worldwide manga.



About Qee

Qee (pronounced "key") is a collection of designer toys created by Hong Kong-based company Toy2R, which was founded by Raymond Choy in 1995. Qees are produced in limited numbers and are highly collectible. Many contemporary artists and designers from Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America have designed figures. Domo is the mascot of NHK television in Japan, and is breaking out worldwide as animation, toys, publishing and apparel.



About Big Tent Entertainment LLC

Big Tent Entertainment, LLC (www.bigtent.tv) is an entertainment company specializing in the integrated development and management of media brands. Formed in 2002, the company manages a portfolio across both traditional and new media while focusing on brand strategy, community building, viral marketing, licensing and retail merchandising. Big Tent currently serves as the worldwide (ex Asia) marketing and licensing company for viral sensation Domo and the North American agency of record for a number of children’s properties including: Discovery Kids, the leader in real world, educational content for children; The Wiggles, the world’s most popular pre-school entertainers; and Miffy & Friends, one of the largest brands for infants, toddlers and preschoolers with an all-new tween/teen program. Additionally, Big Tent serves as the U.S. licensing agent for the masters of freestyle motocross, the Crusty Demons, and the world’s most popular series about girls and horses, The Saddle Club. The Company is also the worldwide management company for renowned art licensing agency Alaska Momma.



About Dark Horse

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. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, and comics legend Will Eisner, their highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Aliens, Conan, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, and The Incredibles. Today Dark Horse Comics is the third largest comic-book publisher in the U.S. and is recognized as the world's leading publisher of licensed comics material.