Walter Simonson’s The Mighty Thor: Artist’s
Edition To Launch at San Diego Comic-Con
Regular and San Diego Comic-Con variant editions
available now for pre-order through IDW
Simonson to appear at IDW booth throughout Comic-Con
[Thor Artist Edition Image]San Diego, CA (June 10, 2011)—Walter Simonson, legendary comics writer and artist of an overwhelmingly impressive catalog of books, will appear at the IDW booth every day during the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con, signing copies of WALTER SIMONSON’S THE MIGHTY THOR: ARTIST’S EDITION. In addition to the regular edition available in July at comic stores, IDW will offer a limited Comic-Con exclusive edition featuring a variant cover, only available through IDW at the convention. Readers can now pre-order both editions direct from IDW Publishing for pick up at Comic-Con. The regular edition is also available for mail delivery, and orders will be filled after San Diego Comic-Con. The Comic-Con exclusive edition will only be available at the convention. Please click here to pre-order.
“I wrote and drew The Mighty Thor for Marvel more 25 years ago now, at a time when it was the fate of old comics to be deployed to the back issue bins in comic shops and at conventions. No one had any expectations of reprints or trade collections. Now, it’s a new day,” said Simonson. “I’m pleased that IDW and Marvel have seen fit to go back and revisit this work as they have. I couldn’t be more delighted to know Thor, Beta Ray Bill, and all their friends turned out to have a much longer shelf-life than I would ever have imagined.”
An oversized, hardcover collection, WALTER SIMONSON’S THE MIGHTY THOR: ARTIST’S EDITION will present Thor 337-340, Simonson’s first classic story arc, which introduced Beta Ray Bill, and Thor 360-362, Simonson’s choice for the second arc in the book. All the pages in the ARTIST’S EDITION have been scanned from Simonson’s personal original art to ensure the highest possible quality reproduction. While appearing to be in black and white, each page was scanned in color to mimic as closely as possible the experience of viewing the actual original art—for instance, white-out corrections and blue pencil notations.
“Walter’s run on The Mighty Thor is one of the best ever in comics—period,” said editor Scott Dunbier, “and to be able to see it now as an Artist’s Edition, printed the same size as drawn, and scanned from all the originals… well, I just can’t wait to get my paws on it!”
This will be Simonson’s first visit to San Diego Comic-Con since 2004. Joining Simonson will be his wife, Louise “Weezie” Simonson, a noted comic book editor and writer. WALTER SIMONSON’S THE MIGHTY THOR: ARTIST’S EDITION will be the first in a series of Artist’s Editions featuring legendary creators and comics from Marvel.
WALTER SIMONSON’S THOR: ARTIST’S EDITION ($100, hardcover, black and white, 176 pages, 12” x 17”) will be available in stores in July 2011. Now available for pre-order through IDWPublishing.com. ISBN 978-1-61377-038-2.
WALTER SIMONSON’S THOR: ARTIST’S EDITION San Diego Comic-Con Edition ($100, hardcover, black and white, 176 pages, 12” x 17”) will only be available through IDW during San Diego Comic-Con, and is now available for pre-order through IDWPublishing.com.
Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.
About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The Transformers and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio; and is the print publisher for EA Comics.
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. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.
About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit www.marvel.com.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thursday, June 09, 2011
BUTCHER BAKER KEEPS IT UP
Butcher Baker, The Righteous Maker Sells Out Third Issue In a Row
Berkeley, CA – 9 June 2011 – Each issue of Joe Casey and Mike Huddleston's BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER has been met not only with immediate approval from fans and reviewers, but with news of distribution-wide sell out as well! The third issue of this mind-altering NSFW comic is no exception, and Image Comics has rushed it back to press so retailers can restock this popular title right as the fourth issue is set to hit shelves.
"Three for three," Casey responded when he heard the news of the sell out. "Mike and I are blown away by the response to the book so far. If anything, things get even more insane for Butcher and his rogues gallery from here on out... so everyone keep reading."
As with each previous issue of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER, reviewers have heaped words of both shock and approval upon the raunchy ongoing series, as well as its seemingly twisted creative team:
"Bravo! This comic also has some of the best and most unique art I’ve seen in a while. ...There isn’t another comic on the shelves right now that looks like this." -- Dean Stell at Weekly Comic Book Review
"Joe Casey and Mike Huddleston have a huge hit on their hands with this title. ...One thing's for sure, it's a whole lot of fun..." -- at Forces of Geek
"Butcher Baker is forward thrust, like the big d**k metaphor of the semi. Even the cover has White Lightning literally skull f**king Butcher Baker, with his horseshoe mustache curiously remaining on his bony remains." -- Danny Djeljosevic of Comics Bulletin
“…something about it just seems raw that makes me have to tear my eyes from every page because I want to just lean into the comic and stare at it closer. The artwork in the comic just oozes with a vibe that is hard to not get sucked into… This isn’t something that you want your little kid reading for sure, but for all of us adults, this comic is just damn fun. We could all use a little more fun right? And lightning sex. Read the comic, then you’ll get it.” – Ryan Thomason at WatchPlayRead
"I'm now convinced that Joe Casey is the drug-addled, insane Hunter S. Thompson of the comic world. BUTCHER BAKER #3 does nothing to dissuade one from this position with its mix of seemingly peyote induced sage wisdom that somehow makes sense, excesses of rock star proportions, psychotic mood swings, satire, and classic comic storytelling.
"Mike Huddleston's art is the perfect marriage to the script with it's psychedelic styling and Freudian laced undertones (and overtones for that matter). Despite its hyper-sexuality, the images never feel pornographic or even overtly erotic (unless you have some issues)." -- Eric Whitman of The Daily Blam!
The second printing of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER #3 (APR118218), a raunchy 32-page full-color political/sexploitation superhero comic book, will be on sale June 29th, coinciding with the release of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER #4 (APR110497).
ABOUT JOE CASEY
Joe Casey is a founding partner of Man of Action Studios, a creative development company formed in 2000 by graphic novelists Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle. Based in Los Angeles and New York, Man Of Action Studios created the popular BEN 10 TV franchise as well as the new series Generator Rex. Currently they are supervising producers/story editors on the upcoming Ultimate Spider-Man animated series premiering in 2012 on Disney/XD. Man of Action wrote the X-Men and Superman comic book series and currently publish their original creations through Image Comics. They wrote the best-selling video games X-Men: Legends for Activision, and Darksiders: Wrath of War for THQ. For more information, visit www.manofaction.tv.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
Butcher Baker, The Righteous Maker Sells Out Third Issue In a Row
Berkeley, CA – 9 June 2011 – Each issue of Joe Casey and Mike Huddleston's BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER has been met not only with immediate approval from fans and reviewers, but with news of distribution-wide sell out as well! The third issue of this mind-altering NSFW comic is no exception, and Image Comics has rushed it back to press so retailers can restock this popular title right as the fourth issue is set to hit shelves.
"Three for three," Casey responded when he heard the news of the sell out. "Mike and I are blown away by the response to the book so far. If anything, things get even more insane for Butcher and his rogues gallery from here on out... so everyone keep reading."
As with each previous issue of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER, reviewers have heaped words of both shock and approval upon the raunchy ongoing series, as well as its seemingly twisted creative team:
"Bravo! This comic also has some of the best and most unique art I’ve seen in a while. ...There isn’t another comic on the shelves right now that looks like this." -- Dean Stell at Weekly Comic Book Review
"Joe Casey and Mike Huddleston have a huge hit on their hands with this title. ...One thing's for sure, it's a whole lot of fun..." -- at Forces of Geek
"Butcher Baker is forward thrust, like the big d**k metaphor of the semi. Even the cover has White Lightning literally skull f**king Butcher Baker, with his horseshoe mustache curiously remaining on his bony remains." -- Danny Djeljosevic of Comics Bulletin
“…something about it just seems raw that makes me have to tear my eyes from every page because I want to just lean into the comic and stare at it closer. The artwork in the comic just oozes with a vibe that is hard to not get sucked into… This isn’t something that you want your little kid reading for sure, but for all of us adults, this comic is just damn fun. We could all use a little more fun right? And lightning sex. Read the comic, then you’ll get it.” – Ryan Thomason at WatchPlayRead
"I'm now convinced that Joe Casey is the drug-addled, insane Hunter S. Thompson of the comic world. BUTCHER BAKER #3 does nothing to dissuade one from this position with its mix of seemingly peyote induced sage wisdom that somehow makes sense, excesses of rock star proportions, psychotic mood swings, satire, and classic comic storytelling.
"Mike Huddleston's art is the perfect marriage to the script with it's psychedelic styling and Freudian laced undertones (and overtones for that matter). Despite its hyper-sexuality, the images never feel pornographic or even overtly erotic (unless you have some issues)." -- Eric Whitman of The Daily Blam!
The second printing of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER #3 (APR118218), a raunchy 32-page full-color political/sexploitation superhero comic book, will be on sale June 29th, coinciding with the release of BUTCHER BAKER, THE RIGHTEOUS MAKER #4 (APR110497).
ABOUT JOE CASEY
Joe Casey is a founding partner of Man of Action Studios, a creative development company formed in 2000 by graphic novelists Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau and Steven T. Seagle. Based in Los Angeles and New York, Man Of Action Studios created the popular BEN 10 TV franchise as well as the new series Generator Rex. Currently they are supervising producers/story editors on the upcoming Ultimate Spider-Man animated series premiering in 2012 on Disney/XD. Man of Action wrote the X-Men and Superman comic book series and currently publish their original creations through Image Comics. They wrote the best-selling video games X-Men: Legends for Activision, and Darksiders: Wrath of War for THQ. For more information, visit www.manofaction.tv.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
SHINKU #1 SPILLS BLOOD, SELLS OUT
Debut Issue of Marz & Moder's Modern Vampire vs. Samurai Bloodbath Goes Back to Print
Berkeley, CA – 9 June 2011 – Vampires be forewarned: SHINKU is here to kick ass and take names! The first issue of Ron Marz and Lee Moder's sexy story of a lone samurai versus hordes of bloodsucking vampires sold out at distribution level before it even hit the shelves.
While copies of SHINKU #1 may still be available in some comic shops, their days are numbered! Therefore, a second printing is underway and will be available in stores the same day that SHINKU #2 is released.
"Everybody who worked on SHINKU put blood, sweat and tears into it... mostly blood, though," explained Marz. "So we're really excited and gratified by the reception the book has received. There's going to be plenty more you can sink your teeth into."
Some of the rave reviews of the first issue of SHINKU include these words of praise:
"If you're looking for a samurai story, a twisted vampire yarn, a new female lead to cheer for, an adventure tale, or even a few laughs, SHINKU is the place you want to look." -- Joey Esposito of IGN
"...well, it's one of the best new #1's I've read in a while. Badass, original and NOT for the faint of heart, I've fallen for this book very quickly..." Russ Burlingame of Comic Related
"The reason Ron Marz's SHINKU #1 rises above a lot of the work in the over-populated zombie/vampire genre within the medium is his sardonic wit and unrelenting pacing." -- Eric Whitman of The Daily Blam!
SHINKU #1 introduces Shinku, the last woman standing in a centuries old line of samurai who secretly fight against a powerful vampire clan. In this tough world of one mortal versus throngs of violent immortal killers, one thing is certain: in the second issue, things get even bloodier!
The second printing of SHINKU #1 (APR118207), a 32-page full color horror comic book priced at $2.99 is available for re-order now with an in-store date of July 7, coinciding with the release of SHINKU #2 (MAY110529).
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
Debut Issue of Marz & Moder's Modern Vampire vs. Samurai Bloodbath Goes Back to Print
Berkeley, CA – 9 June 2011 – Vampires be forewarned: SHINKU is here to kick ass and take names! The first issue of Ron Marz and Lee Moder's sexy story of a lone samurai versus hordes of bloodsucking vampires sold out at distribution level before it even hit the shelves.
While copies of SHINKU #1 may still be available in some comic shops, their days are numbered! Therefore, a second printing is underway and will be available in stores the same day that SHINKU #2 is released.
"Everybody who worked on SHINKU put blood, sweat and tears into it... mostly blood, though," explained Marz. "So we're really excited and gratified by the reception the book has received. There's going to be plenty more you can sink your teeth into."
Some of the rave reviews of the first issue of SHINKU include these words of praise:
"If you're looking for a samurai story, a twisted vampire yarn, a new female lead to cheer for, an adventure tale, or even a few laughs, SHINKU is the place you want to look." -- Joey Esposito of IGN
"...well, it's one of the best new #1's I've read in a while. Badass, original and NOT for the faint of heart, I've fallen for this book very quickly..." Russ Burlingame of Comic Related
"The reason Ron Marz's SHINKU #1 rises above a lot of the work in the over-populated zombie/vampire genre within the medium is his sardonic wit and unrelenting pacing." -- Eric Whitman of The Daily Blam!
SHINKU #1 introduces Shinku, the last woman standing in a centuries old line of samurai who secretly fight against a powerful vampire clan. In this tough world of one mortal versus throngs of violent immortal killers, one thing is certain: in the second issue, things get even bloodier!
The second printing of SHINKU #1 (APR118207), a 32-page full color horror comic book priced at $2.99 is available for re-order now with an in-store date of July 7, coinciding with the release of SHINKU #2 (MAY110529).
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
New Adaptation of Servant of the Bones
Debuts this Summer
IDW partners with best-selling author Anne Rice
[Servant of the Bones Image]San Diego, CA (June 9, 2011) — IDW Publishing today announced the launch of the new comic adaptation of Servant of the Bones debuting in August. IDW has a partnership with New York Times best-selling author Anne Rice (Interview with a Vampire, Queen of the Damned, The Vampire Lestat) to create the newly adapted version of one of her most celebrated works.
Rice, among the most iconic authors in horror, takes fans back to the time of ancient Babylon with this six-part tale of murder, demonic revenge, and the redemptive power of faith. IDW’s Servant of the Bones will be brought to life by the New York Times best-selling co-writer of the True Blood comic, Mariah McCourt and ornately illustrated by the New York Times best-selling art team of Renae DeLiz and Ray Dillon (The Last Unicorn).
“The closer we arrive to the release date of this splendid adaptation of Servant of the Bones, the more excited I become. I have overseen the whole phase of this project, and at each step I am more amazed,” said Rice. “Ray and Renae DeLiz’s drawings are vivid and gorgeous; Mariah Heuhner’s script has captured the heart of my novel; and the alternative covers by Jenny Frison are just breathtaking. The day Servant is officially released will be a day to remember!”
In Servant of the Bones, Azriel is an immortal spirit who is bound to the gold-encased bones of his mortal body. He struggles to understand whether he is a ghost, genie, demon or angel and shares his story with the reader and his scribe, Jonathan, as he travels to different times and eras, ending in the modern world of New York City. Amidst the towers of Manhattan, Azriel finds himself in confrontations with his own human memories and the dark forces that have sought to condemn him to a life of evil and destruction.
Beginning in August, the first issue of this adaptation will tell the story of a beautiful young woman who is brutally slain in the streets of New York City. The demon Azriel sets out to discover who killed her, only to find a far more sinister plot that could end the world. Once a human in ancient Babylon, Azriel is a spirit of rage and terror, who gradually rediscovers his humanity through holy vengeance and spiritual love.
SERVANT OF THE BONES #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available August 2011. Diamond order code JUN11 0380.
Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.
About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro's The Transformers and G.I. JOE, Paramount's Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC's Doctor Who; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio; and is the print publisher for EA Comics.
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. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.
Debuts this Summer
IDW partners with best-selling author Anne Rice
[Servant of the Bones Image]San Diego, CA (June 9, 2011) — IDW Publishing today announced the launch of the new comic adaptation of Servant of the Bones debuting in August. IDW has a partnership with New York Times best-selling author Anne Rice (Interview with a Vampire, Queen of the Damned, The Vampire Lestat) to create the newly adapted version of one of her most celebrated works.
Rice, among the most iconic authors in horror, takes fans back to the time of ancient Babylon with this six-part tale of murder, demonic revenge, and the redemptive power of faith. IDW’s Servant of the Bones will be brought to life by the New York Times best-selling co-writer of the True Blood comic, Mariah McCourt and ornately illustrated by the New York Times best-selling art team of Renae DeLiz and Ray Dillon (The Last Unicorn).
“The closer we arrive to the release date of this splendid adaptation of Servant of the Bones, the more excited I become. I have overseen the whole phase of this project, and at each step I am more amazed,” said Rice. “Ray and Renae DeLiz’s drawings are vivid and gorgeous; Mariah Heuhner’s script has captured the heart of my novel; and the alternative covers by Jenny Frison are just breathtaking. The day Servant is officially released will be a day to remember!”
In Servant of the Bones, Azriel is an immortal spirit who is bound to the gold-encased bones of his mortal body. He struggles to understand whether he is a ghost, genie, demon or angel and shares his story with the reader and his scribe, Jonathan, as he travels to different times and eras, ending in the modern world of New York City. Amidst the towers of Manhattan, Azriel finds himself in confrontations with his own human memories and the dark forces that have sought to condemn him to a life of evil and destruction.
Beginning in August, the first issue of this adaptation will tell the story of a beautiful young woman who is brutally slain in the streets of New York City. The demon Azriel sets out to discover who killed her, only to find a far more sinister plot that could end the world. Once a human in ancient Babylon, Azriel is a spirit of rage and terror, who gradually rediscovers his humanity through holy vengeance and spiritual love.
SERVANT OF THE BONES #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available August 2011. Diamond order code JUN11 0380.
Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.
About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro's The Transformers and G.I. JOE, Paramount's Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC's Doctor Who; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio; and is the print publisher for EA Comics.
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. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.
VALIANT EXPANDS MANAGEMENT TEAM; PREVIOUS WIZARD PRESIDENT BECOMES PUBLISHER
AND CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED FORMER MARVEL EDITOR BECOMES EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Company Taps Highly Accomplished Industry Figures Fred Pierce and Warren Simons
New York, NY, June 9, 2011 – Valiant Entertainment, the character-based entertainment company with more than 1,500 characters in its library, today announced the further expansion of its management team. Former Wizard Entertainment President Fred Pierce has been appointed Publisher and critically acclaimed former Marvel Editor Warren Simons has been appointed Vice President - Executive Editor of Valiant. They join Peter Cuneo, the former Marvel CEO and Vice Chairman, who was recently appointed Chairman of Valiant.
During a distinguished career in the comic book industry, Pierce has served as a senior leader of two major companies guiding them to huge success during his tenure. He was a key member of the management team of the original Valiant as Vice President of Operations and Manufacturing during its period of unprecedented growth. At Valiant, he was actively involved in all aspects of the company and was instrumental in building it into the third largest company in the industry after only Marvel Entertainment and DC Entertainment until its successful sale to video game company Acclaim Entertainment in 1994.
Following Valiant’s sale to Acclaim, Pierce was appointed President and COO of Wizard Entertainment, the leading comic and pop culture magazine and convention company.
While leading Wizard for 14 years in this position, Pierce helped grow the company from a single entertainment magazine to a line of entertainment magazines, each of which was dominant in their respective industries, including Wizard, ToyFare, InQuest and Anime Insider. He was also responsible for starting Wizard World conventions in a number of locations, such as Chicago (the second largest comic and pop culture convention behind the San Diego Comic Con), Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Dallas. Pierce guided the company into profitability in his first two years and then led a decade of unrivaled growth before leaving Wizard in 2008 to join printing company The Ensig Group as President. He now joins Valiant as Publisher.
“Fred is a highly successful publisher who played an important role in Valiant’s history. I’m pleased to have him back at Valiant to give him the special opportunity to rebuild the legacy he helped create,” said Jason Kothari, CEO of Valiant Entertainment.
“Valiant has been quietly putting the key building blocks in place for a major reemergence in the entertainment industry. I’m very excited to be a part of it,” said Fred Pierce. “I’m proud of what we accomplished at the original Valiant and the opportunity to be back allows me to come full circle, making this very important to me.”
One of the most critically acclaimed editors in the industry, Warren Simons is an expert at revitalizing classic characters to large creative and commercial success in today’s market. During his seven years at Marvel, he relaunched or edited some of the industry’s most iconic characters and titles, including The Invincible Iron Man, Spider-Man, Thor, Daredevil, and The Immortal Iron Fist. Simons’ books were frequently best-sellers and were nominated for 11 Eisner Awards and 10 Harvey Awards.
Simons played a major role in discovering new creative talents and revitalizing some of Marvel’s most prominent characters, including overseeing the relaunch of The Invincible Iron Man, the 2009 Eisner award-winner for Best New Series, and the relaunch of Thor, the 2009 Eisner nominee for Best Ongoing Series. Simons oversaw the comic book redesign of Thor in advance of the hit Marvel Studios movie.
“I’m excited to announce Warren as Valiant’s Executive Editor,” said Jason Kothari. “Warren is an expert at revitalizing classic characters and has a tremendous track record of creating books that are both award-winning and best-selling. He is the creative force that will ensure the new Valiant Universe is a sophisticated superhero universe that will powerfully resonate with today’s extremely intelligent readership, whether they are familiar with Valiant or not.”
“I’m excited to have been chosen for this important position,” said Warren Simons. “The Valiant characters are one of the most beloved universes of characters ever created and have the potential to be icons like Iron Man, Thor and others of that class. I look forward to working alongside some incredibly talented creators and amazing colleagues to help rebuild Valiant into a world-class creative company again.”
Simons and Pierce join a Valiant management team that recently announced investors Peter Cuneo and Gavin Cuneo of private investment company Cuneo & Company, LLC and co-founder Dinesh Shamdasani on the Board of Directors. Gavin Cuneo, Principal of Cuneo & Co., was an investment banker with Bank of America Merrill Lynch and spent over ten years working in investment banking and investment management. He was appointed to Valiant’s Board of Directors.
“We are pleased to have such accomplished industry figures as Fred and Warren on our management team,” said Director Gavin Cuneo. “Their additions further our goal to attract the best business and creative talent for Valiant’s return.”
Chairman Peter Cuneo added, “The nucleus for Valiant is strong and growing. We look forward to updating you as we continue to progress towards our return in 2012.”
About Valiant Entertainment
Valiant Entertainment is a character-based entertainment company that owns and controls some of the most cherished comic characters ever created across all media, including films, television, video games, new media, publishing, and consumer products. Since their creation in 1989, Valiant characters have sold 80 million comic books and have been the basis of a number of successful video game franchises. Valiant’s extensive library includes over 1,500 characters, such as X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Shadowman, and Ninjak. Visit www.ValiantEntertainment.com.
AND CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED FORMER MARVEL EDITOR BECOMES EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Company Taps Highly Accomplished Industry Figures Fred Pierce and Warren Simons
New York, NY, June 9, 2011 – Valiant Entertainment, the character-based entertainment company with more than 1,500 characters in its library, today announced the further expansion of its management team. Former Wizard Entertainment President Fred Pierce has been appointed Publisher and critically acclaimed former Marvel Editor Warren Simons has been appointed Vice President - Executive Editor of Valiant. They join Peter Cuneo, the former Marvel CEO and Vice Chairman, who was recently appointed Chairman of Valiant.
During a distinguished career in the comic book industry, Pierce has served as a senior leader of two major companies guiding them to huge success during his tenure. He was a key member of the management team of the original Valiant as Vice President of Operations and Manufacturing during its period of unprecedented growth. At Valiant, he was actively involved in all aspects of the company and was instrumental in building it into the third largest company in the industry after only Marvel Entertainment and DC Entertainment until its successful sale to video game company Acclaim Entertainment in 1994.
Following Valiant’s sale to Acclaim, Pierce was appointed President and COO of Wizard Entertainment, the leading comic and pop culture magazine and convention company.
While leading Wizard for 14 years in this position, Pierce helped grow the company from a single entertainment magazine to a line of entertainment magazines, each of which was dominant in their respective industries, including Wizard, ToyFare, InQuest and Anime Insider. He was also responsible for starting Wizard World conventions in a number of locations, such as Chicago (the second largest comic and pop culture convention behind the San Diego Comic Con), Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Dallas. Pierce guided the company into profitability in his first two years and then led a decade of unrivaled growth before leaving Wizard in 2008 to join printing company The Ensig Group as President. He now joins Valiant as Publisher.
“Fred is a highly successful publisher who played an important role in Valiant’s history. I’m pleased to have him back at Valiant to give him the special opportunity to rebuild the legacy he helped create,” said Jason Kothari, CEO of Valiant Entertainment.
“Valiant has been quietly putting the key building blocks in place for a major reemergence in the entertainment industry. I’m very excited to be a part of it,” said Fred Pierce. “I’m proud of what we accomplished at the original Valiant and the opportunity to be back allows me to come full circle, making this very important to me.”
One of the most critically acclaimed editors in the industry, Warren Simons is an expert at revitalizing classic characters to large creative and commercial success in today’s market. During his seven years at Marvel, he relaunched or edited some of the industry’s most iconic characters and titles, including The Invincible Iron Man, Spider-Man, Thor, Daredevil, and The Immortal Iron Fist. Simons’ books were frequently best-sellers and were nominated for 11 Eisner Awards and 10 Harvey Awards.
Simons played a major role in discovering new creative talents and revitalizing some of Marvel’s most prominent characters, including overseeing the relaunch of The Invincible Iron Man, the 2009 Eisner award-winner for Best New Series, and the relaunch of Thor, the 2009 Eisner nominee for Best Ongoing Series. Simons oversaw the comic book redesign of Thor in advance of the hit Marvel Studios movie.
“I’m excited to announce Warren as Valiant’s Executive Editor,” said Jason Kothari. “Warren is an expert at revitalizing classic characters and has a tremendous track record of creating books that are both award-winning and best-selling. He is the creative force that will ensure the new Valiant Universe is a sophisticated superhero universe that will powerfully resonate with today’s extremely intelligent readership, whether they are familiar with Valiant or not.”
“I’m excited to have been chosen for this important position,” said Warren Simons. “The Valiant characters are one of the most beloved universes of characters ever created and have the potential to be icons like Iron Man, Thor and others of that class. I look forward to working alongside some incredibly talented creators and amazing colleagues to help rebuild Valiant into a world-class creative company again.”
Simons and Pierce join a Valiant management team that recently announced investors Peter Cuneo and Gavin Cuneo of private investment company Cuneo & Company, LLC and co-founder Dinesh Shamdasani on the Board of Directors. Gavin Cuneo, Principal of Cuneo & Co., was an investment banker with Bank of America Merrill Lynch and spent over ten years working in investment banking and investment management. He was appointed to Valiant’s Board of Directors.
“We are pleased to have such accomplished industry figures as Fred and Warren on our management team,” said Director Gavin Cuneo. “Their additions further our goal to attract the best business and creative talent for Valiant’s return.”
Chairman Peter Cuneo added, “The nucleus for Valiant is strong and growing. We look forward to updating you as we continue to progress towards our return in 2012.”
About Valiant Entertainment
Valiant Entertainment is a character-based entertainment company that owns and controls some of the most cherished comic characters ever created across all media, including films, television, video games, new media, publishing, and consumer products. Since their creation in 1989, Valiant characters have sold 80 million comic books and have been the basis of a number of successful video game franchises. Valiant’s extensive library includes over 1,500 characters, such as X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Shadowman, and Ninjak. Visit www.ValiantEntertainment.com.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Digital Manga Publishing brings Hideyuki Kikuchi’s Vampire Hunter D Manga to comiXology
DMP’s flagship manga title makes its debut on the iPad
Kansas City, MO /NY, NY 6/8/11 – Digital Manga Publishing announced today that they are partnering with comiXology, the leading distributor of digital comics, to digitally release their flagship manga title Vampire Hunter D vol. 1-3 to the comiXology storefront for the iOS, Android and Web.
Hideyuki Kikuchi’s Vampire Hunter D print edition manga was launched in 2007 by Digital Manga Publishing, adapting the well renowned series of prose novel series, which began in the 80’s. Kikuchi mixed elements of gothic horror, science fiction and romance with the classic Western to produce a wholly original, post-apocalyptic vision of the distant future, where humanity is ruled by vampires and tormented by a host of creatures including demons, werewolves and mutants, as well as half-human, half-vampire ‘dhampirs’ like the series’ namesake, D.
“Manga has been in the brick and mortar comic book shops for several decades and Digital Manga Publishing would like to carry on that tradition to the digital frontier,” said Fred Lui, VP-Production of Digital Manga. ”We are partnering with comiXology because of the ubiquitous platform that they have built and the amazing reading experience they are able to provide.” The Vampire Hunter D manga and novels have an international fan base, having sold more than 17 million copies around the world. The property has also been adapted into two anime movies, an audio drama, and a video game. The entry of the Vampire Hunter D manga into the digital edition arena will prove to be equally successful, especially with the reading experience when delivered through comiXology’s Comic App.
“The addition of Digital Manga’s Vampire Hunter D with it’s rich story telling is a great addition to our platform,’ said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “The manga looks especially vibrant in our Guided View format on the iPad and we look forward to adding more of Digital Manga’s titles to our platform in the coming months.”
Through this partnership Digital Manga Publishing will be releasing more of their acclaimed titles through comiXology platform.
All volumes of Vampire Hunter D will be available on the comiXology platform for $9.99 each with 20 pages of the first volume can be read for free. You can find their dedicated web storefront at comics.comixology.com/dmp and all purchases are buy once, read anywhere.
About comiXology
Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 9,000 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace. http://www.comixology.com/
About Digital Manga Publishing
Located in Gardena, CA, Digital Manga Publishing is one of the industry’s most unconventional and innovative companies, specializing in building corporate and cultural bridges from Japan to the Western Hemisphere - specifically through the licensing, importation and localization of anime (Japanese animation), manga (Japanese comic books) and related merchandise for the North American mainstream and subculture markets. In this capacity, Digital Manga Inc. serves as a catalyst for the expansion of Japanese pop culture institutions into global arenas. The company’s diverse manga imprint line includes high profile manga/anime titles such as Vampire Hunter D; popular romance titles–Only the Ring Finger Knows; classic iconic titles–Speed Racer Mach GoGoGo; and award nominated titles–Itazura Na Kiss (Young Adult Library Service Assoc.) and Antique Bakery (Eisner Award). Digital Manga Publishing also caters to the young audience with a vast array of educational and instructional line of books with their Edu-Manga series and Let’s Draw Manga series.
For more information about Digital Manga Publishing, visit www.digitalmanga.com as well as: www.emanga.com
* http://twitter.com/digitalmanga
* http://www.youtube.com/user/junemanga
* http://www.youtube.com/user/801media
* http://www.youtube.com/user/digitalmanga
* http://www.facebook.com/DigitalMangaInc
DMP’s flagship manga title makes its debut on the iPad
Kansas City, MO /NY, NY 6/8/11 – Digital Manga Publishing announced today that they are partnering with comiXology, the leading distributor of digital comics, to digitally release their flagship manga title Vampire Hunter D vol. 1-3 to the comiXology storefront for the iOS, Android and Web.
Hideyuki Kikuchi’s Vampire Hunter D print edition manga was launched in 2007 by Digital Manga Publishing, adapting the well renowned series of prose novel series, which began in the 80’s. Kikuchi mixed elements of gothic horror, science fiction and romance with the classic Western to produce a wholly original, post-apocalyptic vision of the distant future, where humanity is ruled by vampires and tormented by a host of creatures including demons, werewolves and mutants, as well as half-human, half-vampire ‘dhampirs’ like the series’ namesake, D.
“Manga has been in the brick and mortar comic book shops for several decades and Digital Manga Publishing would like to carry on that tradition to the digital frontier,” said Fred Lui, VP-Production of Digital Manga. ”We are partnering with comiXology because of the ubiquitous platform that they have built and the amazing reading experience they are able to provide.” The Vampire Hunter D manga and novels have an international fan base, having sold more than 17 million copies around the world. The property has also been adapted into two anime movies, an audio drama, and a video game. The entry of the Vampire Hunter D manga into the digital edition arena will prove to be equally successful, especially with the reading experience when delivered through comiXology’s Comic App.
“The addition of Digital Manga’s Vampire Hunter D with it’s rich story telling is a great addition to our platform,’ said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “The manga looks especially vibrant in our Guided View format on the iPad and we look forward to adding more of Digital Manga’s titles to our platform in the coming months.”
Through this partnership Digital Manga Publishing will be releasing more of their acclaimed titles through comiXology platform.
All volumes of Vampire Hunter D will be available on the comiXology platform for $9.99 each with 20 pages of the first volume can be read for free. You can find their dedicated web storefront at comics.comixology.com/dmp and all purchases are buy once, read anywhere.
About comiXology
Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 9,000 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace. http://www.comixology.com/
About Digital Manga Publishing
Located in Gardena, CA, Digital Manga Publishing is one of the industry’s most unconventional and innovative companies, specializing in building corporate and cultural bridges from Japan to the Western Hemisphere - specifically through the licensing, importation and localization of anime (Japanese animation), manga (Japanese comic books) and related merchandise for the North American mainstream and subculture markets. In this capacity, Digital Manga Inc. serves as a catalyst for the expansion of Japanese pop culture institutions into global arenas. The company’s diverse manga imprint line includes high profile manga/anime titles such as Vampire Hunter D; popular romance titles–Only the Ring Finger Knows; classic iconic titles–Speed Racer Mach GoGoGo; and award nominated titles–Itazura Na Kiss (Young Adult Library Service Assoc.) and Antique Bakery (Eisner Award). Digital Manga Publishing also caters to the young audience with a vast array of educational and instructional line of books with their Edu-Manga series and Let’s Draw Manga series.
For more information about Digital Manga Publishing, visit www.digitalmanga.com as well as: www.emanga.com
* http://twitter.com/digitalmanga
* http://www.youtube.com/user/junemanga
* http://www.youtube.com/user/801media
* http://www.youtube.com/user/digitalmanga
* http://www.facebook.com/DigitalMangaInc
WIN A $100 AMAZON GIFT CARD
WHEN YOU SHARE THE VAULT
If you’re a Facebook fan of THE VAULT, you could easily win a $100 Amazon gift card. All you have to do is help spread the word on www.facebook.com/TheVaultComic that THE VAULT #1, goes on sale July 27th. If it sounds too easy, it’s because it is.
To enter the drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card:
1) Go to the official The Vault fan page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thevaultcomic.
2) To be entered in the drawing, make sure to both comment and share on your Facebook wall a post from The Vault’s Facebook wall.
3) You can enter in the drawing, up to four times, by both commenting and sharing on your Facebook wall four separate posts on The Vault’s Facebook wall.
4) On June 29th, a winner will be randomly selected from all of the entered drawings.
THE VAULT, from writer Sam Sarkar (Caliber: First Canon of Justice) and artist Garrie Gastonny (Warren Ellis’ Supergod, Caliber), is about a small team of treasure hunters struggling to excavate a dangerous and legendary treasure pit before a massive storm hits. They believe are prepared against nature's fury, but nothing can prepare them for what they are about to unleash.
THE VAULT #1 (1 of 3), a 32-page full color comic book from IMAGE COMICS, will be on sale in stores July 27th for $3.50 and is available to order in the June 2011 edition of Diamond Previews (Diamond Order Code: JUN110501).
WHEN YOU SHARE THE VAULT
If you’re a Facebook fan of THE VAULT, you could easily win a $100 Amazon gift card. All you have to do is help spread the word on www.facebook.com/TheVaultComic that THE VAULT #1, goes on sale July 27th. If it sounds too easy, it’s because it is.
To enter the drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card:
1) Go to the official The Vault fan page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thevaultcomic.
2) To be entered in the drawing, make sure to both comment and share on your Facebook wall a post from The Vault’s Facebook wall.
3) You can enter in the drawing, up to four times, by both commenting and sharing on your Facebook wall four separate posts on The Vault’s Facebook wall.
4) On June 29th, a winner will be randomly selected from all of the entered drawings.
THE VAULT, from writer Sam Sarkar (Caliber: First Canon of Justice) and artist Garrie Gastonny (Warren Ellis’ Supergod, Caliber), is about a small team of treasure hunters struggling to excavate a dangerous and legendary treasure pit before a massive storm hits. They believe are prepared against nature's fury, but nothing can prepare them for what they are about to unleash.
THE VAULT #1 (1 of 3), a 32-page full color comic book from IMAGE COMICS, will be on sale in stores July 27th for $3.50 and is available to order in the June 2011 edition of Diamond Previews (Diamond Order Code: JUN110501).
HORROR COMES HOME IN '68
The Hardships of War Include Zombies in Upcoming One Shot
Berkeley, CA – 8 June 2011 – The next zombie hit comes from none other than Image Comics, the publisher that introduced fans to the international best-selling hit THE WALKING DEAD. ’68: HARDSHIP is a stand alone story based in the grisly world that horror writer Mark Kidwell carved out in the first two issues of the ’68 miniseries. Along with gifted colorist Jay Fotos, guest artist Jeff Zornow (TYRANNOSAURUS REX, HACK/SLASH) illustrates the horrific details of this story about what happens to one soldier when he returns home.
“68: HARDSHIP is my return to the zombie/horror genre," Zornow explained. "This is the darkest zombie book I have ever illustrated. Brutal and to the point, this is a detailed description of the American nightmare, which opens the gates to an undead apocalypse!"
"They say you can’t go home again,” Kidwell commented. “And HARDSHIP proves that old adage in spades. We’re giving readers a look at the American heartland invaded by the hungry undead through the eyes of a battle-fatigued soldier who’s seen far too much horror. This book is dark, hardcore and doesn’t flinch."
In ‘68: HARDSHIP, a young soldier comes back home from Vietnam. However, seen through the eyes of one traumatized by battle and suffering from previously latent schizophrenia, Nebraska does not appear to be the gentle place of his memories. In fact, it appears to be a battleground teaming with the threats of enemy occupation… from both ‘Charlie’ and the undead. '68: HARDSHIP is a journey into a psychological realm of hallucination, violence and undead horror!
’68: HARDSHIP (ONE SHOT), a 32-page full color horror comic book, will be on sale August 24th for $3.99.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
The Hardships of War Include Zombies in Upcoming One Shot
Berkeley, CA – 8 June 2011 – The next zombie hit comes from none other than Image Comics, the publisher that introduced fans to the international best-selling hit THE WALKING DEAD. ’68: HARDSHIP is a stand alone story based in the grisly world that horror writer Mark Kidwell carved out in the first two issues of the ’68 miniseries. Along with gifted colorist Jay Fotos, guest artist Jeff Zornow (TYRANNOSAURUS REX, HACK/SLASH) illustrates the horrific details of this story about what happens to one soldier when he returns home.
“68: HARDSHIP is my return to the zombie/horror genre," Zornow explained. "This is the darkest zombie book I have ever illustrated. Brutal and to the point, this is a detailed description of the American nightmare, which opens the gates to an undead apocalypse!"
"They say you can’t go home again,” Kidwell commented. “And HARDSHIP proves that old adage in spades. We’re giving readers a look at the American heartland invaded by the hungry undead through the eyes of a battle-fatigued soldier who’s seen far too much horror. This book is dark, hardcore and doesn’t flinch."
In ‘68: HARDSHIP, a young soldier comes back home from Vietnam. However, seen through the eyes of one traumatized by battle and suffering from previously latent schizophrenia, Nebraska does not appear to be the gentle place of his memories. In fact, it appears to be a battleground teaming with the threats of enemy occupation… from both ‘Charlie’ and the undead. '68: HARDSHIP is a journey into a psychological realm of hallucination, violence and undead horror!
’68: HARDSHIP (ONE SHOT), a 32-page full color horror comic book, will be on sale August 24th for $3.99.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
IT'S WRITTEN IN THE STARS
Frank Cho and Doug Murray Set Their Phasers for Sell Out with 50 Girls 50 #1
BERKELEY, CA – 7 June 2011 – Mere days after the introduction of Frank Cho and Doug Murray's 50 GIRLS 50, Image Comics has announced the first issue of their sexy sci-fi epic has sold out. A second printing is being readied for a July 6 release.
Co-created by Cho and Murray, with art by 50 GIRLS 50 talent search winner and current ELEPHANTMEN artist Axel Medellin, 50 GIRLS 50 chronicles the fantastic voyage of the Space Vessel ESS Savannah and her beautiful crew as they fight to escape hostile aliens and exotic worlds, searching for the wormhole that will take them to their ultimate destination: Home.
"It's been a blast watching this project develop over the last few years, first an online talent search and then as Axel was turning in pages and Frank was planning out covers," said Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson. "Everyone involved has done a fantastic job, every step of the way, so it's a real pleasure to see such an enthusiastic response to the first issue."
Added Cho: "50 GIRLS 50 #1 is sold out?! Awesome! I'm having steak tonight!"
The second printing of 50 GIRLS 50 #1 (APR118208), a 32-page full comic book priced at $2.99, and 50 GIRLS 50 #2 (MAY110542) will both be on sale July 6.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
Frank Cho and Doug Murray Set Their Phasers for Sell Out with 50 Girls 50 #1
BERKELEY, CA – 7 June 2011 – Mere days after the introduction of Frank Cho and Doug Murray's 50 GIRLS 50, Image Comics has announced the first issue of their sexy sci-fi epic has sold out. A second printing is being readied for a July 6 release.
Co-created by Cho and Murray, with art by 50 GIRLS 50 talent search winner and current ELEPHANTMEN artist Axel Medellin, 50 GIRLS 50 chronicles the fantastic voyage of the Space Vessel ESS Savannah and her beautiful crew as they fight to escape hostile aliens and exotic worlds, searching for the wormhole that will take them to their ultimate destination: Home.
"It's been a blast watching this project develop over the last few years, first an online talent search and then as Axel was turning in pages and Frank was planning out covers," said Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson. "Everyone involved has done a fantastic job, every step of the way, so it's a real pleasure to see such an enthusiastic response to the first issue."
Added Cho: "50 GIRLS 50 #1 is sold out?! Awesome! I'm having steak tonight!"
The second printing of 50 GIRLS 50 #1 (APR118208), a 32-page full comic book priced at $2.99, and 50 GIRLS 50 #2 (MAY110542) will both be on sale July 6.
ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION RETURNS THIS FALL
The Dreamer Volume 2 to release this November
(Columbus, OH- June 6, 2011) The Dreamer Creator Lora Innes announced today that her publisher IDW will be releasing the second graphic novel collection of her award winning “The Dreamer” series in November of 2011. The Dreamer: Volume 2 (ISBN: 978-1-61377-031-3) will be 152 pages, full color at a suggested retail price of $19.99. The second volume follows the main character, 17-year-old Beatrice Whaley and her wildly vivid dreams about the American Revolution. After barely surviving a battle against the British Army in the first volume, she's relieved to find herself safely in the 21st century again. Determined to live a modern teens lifestyle she is confused when she falls asleep again and the dreams return. Bea and her Revolutionary friends must escape New York City under the watchful eye of the British Army and the tension of living two lives finally brings her to the breaking point.
Writer and Artist Innes explains, “IDW Publishing completely sold out of the first trade but there may be a few available online or on the shelves at your local retailer. If you missed it you can read the first book online for FREE at www.thedreamercomic.com. Having started out as a webcomic we know that the two formats aren't mutually exclusive. Our site is set up with all sorts of great additional stuff like historical short stories, The Dreamer store, and new updates to the online Dreamer story every Friday!”
For more information on The Dreamer visit www.thedreamercomic.com
Friend us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dreamer-Comic/146005828774488
Follow Lora Innes on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/LoraInnes
About IDW Publishing:
IDW is currently recognized as the fifth largest publisher of American comic books. In addition to their printed comics and graphic novels, IDW has more than 650 books in digital distribution across multiple partners and platforms. The company was initially known for horror comics, such as 30 Days of Night and Dark Days but now specializes in licensed properties like Dr. Who, G.I Joe and Star Trek.
About Lora Innes:
Lora Innes's The Dreamer has been nominated for three Harvey Awards including Best New Series, and Best New Talent for Innes herself. In 2010 it was a finalist in the Graphic Novel for Young Adults category in the CYBILS Awards, and it won the 2010 S.P.A.C.E. prize. She also co-hosts the Paper Wings Podcast, "The Show for Visual Storytellers" offering tips to aspiring artists and writers trying to break into the industry. Currently, Innes is working on a graphic novel tie-in for TO APPOMATTOX, an 8 part television mini-series about the Civil War, slated for release in 2013.
The Dreamer Volume 2 to release this November
(Columbus, OH- June 6, 2011) The Dreamer Creator Lora Innes announced today that her publisher IDW will be releasing the second graphic novel collection of her award winning “The Dreamer” series in November of 2011. The Dreamer: Volume 2 (ISBN: 978-1-61377-031-3) will be 152 pages, full color at a suggested retail price of $19.99. The second volume follows the main character, 17-year-old Beatrice Whaley and her wildly vivid dreams about the American Revolution. After barely surviving a battle against the British Army in the first volume, she's relieved to find herself safely in the 21st century again. Determined to live a modern teens lifestyle she is confused when she falls asleep again and the dreams return. Bea and her Revolutionary friends must escape New York City under the watchful eye of the British Army and the tension of living two lives finally brings her to the breaking point.
Writer and Artist Innes explains, “IDW Publishing completely sold out of the first trade but there may be a few available online or on the shelves at your local retailer. If you missed it you can read the first book online for FREE at www.thedreamercomic.com. Having started out as a webcomic we know that the two formats aren't mutually exclusive. Our site is set up with all sorts of great additional stuff like historical short stories, The Dreamer store, and new updates to the online Dreamer story every Friday!”
For more information on The Dreamer visit www.thedreamercomic.com
Friend us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dreamer-Comic/146005828774488
Follow Lora Innes on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/LoraInnes
About IDW Publishing:
IDW is currently recognized as the fifth largest publisher of American comic books. In addition to their printed comics and graphic novels, IDW has more than 650 books in digital distribution across multiple partners and platforms. The company was initially known for horror comics, such as 30 Days of Night and Dark Days but now specializes in licensed properties like Dr. Who, G.I Joe and Star Trek.
About Lora Innes:
Lora Innes's The Dreamer has been nominated for three Harvey Awards including Best New Series, and Best New Talent for Innes herself. In 2010 it was a finalist in the Graphic Novel for Young Adults category in the CYBILS Awards, and it won the 2010 S.P.A.C.E. prize. She also co-hosts the Paper Wings Podcast, "The Show for Visual Storytellers" offering tips to aspiring artists and writers trying to break into the industry. Currently, Innes is working on a graphic novel tie-in for TO APPOMATTOX, an 8 part television mini-series about the Civil War, slated for release in 2013.
WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES
GREEN LANTERN: RISE OF THE MANHUNTERS
NOW AVAILABLE TO CORPS MEMBERS EVERYWHERE
Game Inspired by Upcoming Green Lantern Film Shines Light on
Console and Handheld Systems Today
Burbank, Calif. – June 7, 2011 – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today announced the North American release of Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters. The action-adventure videogame, inspired by the upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures’ superhero feature film Green Lantern, based on the DC Comics’ character of the same name, is now available on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™; and the Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo 3DS™ handheld systems.
The Xbox 360 and PS3™ versions are available to play in both 2D and 3D, and feature the likenesses and voice talent of Ryan Reynolds who reprises his role as Hal Jordan from the movie that opens nationwide June 17.
Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters is set in the universe of the film with an original story by award-winning comic book writer Marv Wolfman. Players will take flight across the universe to planets Oa, Zamaron and Biot, and utilize an arsenal of constructs to restore intergalactic order by wielding the ultimate weapon: the Green Lantern Power Ring. Gamers playing the Xbox 360 or PS3 versions will also have the option to join forces with a friend to play as Hal Jordan or Sinestro to battle the Manhunters.
The Nintendo 3DS version of the game is designed specifically to take advantage of the system’s stereoscopic 3D capabilities and deliver multi-plane graphics that delve players further into the Green Lantern universe.
In addition, players on Xbox 360 and PlayStation®3 system will be given the option to play in anaglyphic 3D with technology that is compatible with high definition TV sets and visible to players wearing the 3D glasses that will be available for the video game. Fans can also enjoy the game in stereoscopic 3D when playing on any 3D HDTV while wearing active shutter glasses that are compatible with the television.
Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters is developed for Xbox 360 and PS3 by Double Helix Games, and for Wii, Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS by Griptonite Games. For more information and game updates visit http://www.greenlanternvideogame.com/.
About the Green Lantern Feature Film
“Green Lantern” stars Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Angela Bassett and Tim Robbins. Also starring are Jay O. Sanders, Temuera Morrison, Taika Waititi and Jon Tenney,. Martin Campbell directs the film from a screenplay by Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim and Michael Goldenberg, story by Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim, based upon characters appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. The film is being produced by Donald De Line and Greg Berlanti. Herbert W. Gains and Andrew Haas serve as executive producers. The film will open in 3D and 2D on June 17, 2011. “Green Lantern” will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.greenlantern.com.
About DC Entertainment
DC Entertainment, home to such iconic DC Comics properties as Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Flash, MAD Magazine, and Fables, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating across Warner Bros. and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its superheroic characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, and interactive games. Publishing over 1,000 comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Comics is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world.
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.
GREEN LANTERN: RISE OF THE MANHUNTERS VIDEOGAME software © 2011 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Xbox 360 and PS3 platforms developed by Double Helix Games, a Foundation 9 Entertainment Studio. Nintendo platforms developed by Griptonite, Inc. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
GREEN LANTERN: RISE OF THE MANHUNTERS
NOW AVAILABLE TO CORPS MEMBERS EVERYWHERE
Game Inspired by Upcoming Green Lantern Film Shines Light on
Console and Handheld Systems Today
Burbank, Calif. – June 7, 2011 – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today announced the North American release of Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters. The action-adventure videogame, inspired by the upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures’ superhero feature film Green Lantern, based on the DC Comics’ character of the same name, is now available on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™; and the Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo 3DS™ handheld systems.
The Xbox 360 and PS3™ versions are available to play in both 2D and 3D, and feature the likenesses and voice talent of Ryan Reynolds who reprises his role as Hal Jordan from the movie that opens nationwide June 17.
Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters is set in the universe of the film with an original story by award-winning comic book writer Marv Wolfman. Players will take flight across the universe to planets Oa, Zamaron and Biot, and utilize an arsenal of constructs to restore intergalactic order by wielding the ultimate weapon: the Green Lantern Power Ring. Gamers playing the Xbox 360 or PS3 versions will also have the option to join forces with a friend to play as Hal Jordan or Sinestro to battle the Manhunters.
The Nintendo 3DS version of the game is designed specifically to take advantage of the system’s stereoscopic 3D capabilities and deliver multi-plane graphics that delve players further into the Green Lantern universe.
In addition, players on Xbox 360 and PlayStation®3 system will be given the option to play in anaglyphic 3D with technology that is compatible with high definition TV sets and visible to players wearing the 3D glasses that will be available for the video game. Fans can also enjoy the game in stereoscopic 3D when playing on any 3D HDTV while wearing active shutter glasses that are compatible with the television.
Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters is developed for Xbox 360 and PS3 by Double Helix Games, and for Wii, Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS by Griptonite Games. For more information and game updates visit http://www.greenlanternvideogame.com/.
About the Green Lantern Feature Film
“Green Lantern” stars Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Angela Bassett and Tim Robbins. Also starring are Jay O. Sanders, Temuera Morrison, Taika Waititi and Jon Tenney,. Martin Campbell directs the film from a screenplay by Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim and Michael Goldenberg, story by Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim, based upon characters appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. The film is being produced by Donald De Line and Greg Berlanti. Herbert W. Gains and Andrew Haas serve as executive producers. The film will open in 3D and 2D on June 17, 2011. “Green Lantern” will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.greenlantern.com.
About DC Entertainment
DC Entertainment, home to such iconic DC Comics properties as Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Flash, MAD Magazine, and Fables, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating across Warner Bros. and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its superheroic characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, and interactive games. Publishing over 1,000 comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Comics is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world.
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.
GREEN LANTERN: RISE OF THE MANHUNTERS VIDEOGAME software © 2011 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Xbox 360 and PS3 platforms developed by Double Helix Games, a Foundation 9 Entertainment Studio. Nintendo platforms developed by Griptonite, Inc. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
Monday, June 06, 2011
MARVEL COMICS PRESENTS “WHAT THE…” AT SKETCHFEST NYC
New York’s Seventh Annual International Sketch Comedy Festival Begins June 8th
New York, May 31, 2011 – Come see the creators of “Marvel Super Heroes: What The--?!” at the seventh annual SketchFest NYC on Saturday, June 11th at 2:30 PM at The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre at 307 West 26th Street.
Do you thrill to the laughs and mayhem of Marvel.com’s signature stop motion animation masterpiece? Eagerly await each action-packed and humor-filled episode? Well, do you at least want to know how they get those action figures mouths to move and do the M.O.D.O.K. voice? This panel will feature Alex Kropinak, director of the show, as well as his fellow producers Jesse Falcon—also the lead voice actor—and Ben Morse, and contributing writer/voice actor Jon Gutierrez. The panel will be moderated by Grace Randolph, host of Marvel's The Watcher video series as well as the hit online movie show Beyond the Trailer.
In addition to the Marvel Comics presentation, the Festival will feature the Whitest Kids U Know and The Rejection ShoW and presentations by Atom: Comedy Central Digital Shorts, The Onion News Network, and 101.9RXP.
The last six years of the Festival have been a huge success, featuring over a hundred different sketch comedy groups from across North America, sold-out shows, standing ovations, and industry attendance from ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, HBO, MTV, VH1, IFC, Fuse, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, TV Land/Nick at Nite, Discovery Channel, Just For Laughs, Miramax, Tribeca Films, William Morris, ICM and many more.
The Seventh Annual Festival will be held June 8-11, 2011, and is currently sponsored by 101.9 RXP FM, Atom: Comedy Central Web Originals, The Friar’s Club, The Onion, The Sound of Young America, and UCB Comedy.
Thirty-six different groups from around North America will converge on The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre at 307 West 26th Street from June 8 – 11, 2011. Each night, New York audiences will experience the absolute best sketch comedy from around the United States. For a complete list of groups and performance times, please see the following page.
SketchFest NYC is Executive Produced by Alexander Zalben, with Becky Poole, Elizabeth Lawrence, Marni Zalben, Shayna Ferm, Jon Pack, Jason Kalter, and Stefan Lawrence. For more information, please visit the festival website at SketchFestNYC.com.
WHAT: SketchFest NYC
WHEN: June 8, 9 and 10 at 7PM, 8PM, 9PM, 10PM, 11PM & MIDNIGHT;
June 11th at 1PM, 2:30PM, 4PM, 6PM, 7PM, 8PM, 9PM, 10PM, 11PM & MIDNIGHT
WHERE: Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre; 307 West 26th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues
TICKETS: TICKETS: $10, Individual Tickets; $40, Nightly Passes; $100, Festival Passes; Online at UCBTheatre.com. Industry and Press Passes Available On Request.
FULL SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCES FOR SKETCHFEST NYC
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8
7:00 PM The Solo Show w/I Am The Horizon, Paul Thomas, and Fraidy Cat. Hosted by Megan Kellie
8:00 PM Inside Joke Films + Gramps
9:00 PM Team Submarine + This Is About Smith
10:00 PM Kurt & Kristen
11:00 PM 101.9RXP presents Sketch Rocks, Hosted by Dave Greek
Midnight Channel 101
THURSDAY, JUNE 9
7:00 PM Paul Thomas + FreeLoveForum
8:00 PM Fraidy Cat + BoF
9:00 PM Fantasy Grandma + BriTANick
10:00 PM URDB - Live!
11:00 PM The Pyramid Shew + New Exc!tement
Midnight The Puterbaugh Sisters, Variety Hour w/Neon Lights, The CowMen, and Leibya Rogers
FRIDAY, JUNE 10
7:00 PM Klepper & Grey + The Riot Act
8:00 PM Pangea 3000 + Harvard Sailing Team
9:00 PM Whitest Kids U Know
10:00 PM Comedy Central Digital Presents
11:00 PM Rue Brutalia + Murderfist
Midnight Surprise Feature Film Screening
SATURDAY, JUNE 11
1:00 PM ONN Panel
2:30 PM Marvel's What The? Panel
4:00 PM Whitest Kids U Know Panel
6:00 PM I Am The Horizon + Two Fun Men
7:00 PM The Other Other Guys
8:00 PM Seeder & Lee
9:00 PM Oh Brother!
10:00 PM Heavyweight
11:00 PM MEAT + Elephant Larry
Midnight THE Rejection Show presents SketchFest NYC's Closing Night Craptacular
New York’s Seventh Annual International Sketch Comedy Festival Begins June 8th
New York, May 31, 2011 – Come see the creators of “Marvel Super Heroes: What The--?!” at the seventh annual SketchFest NYC on Saturday, June 11th at 2:30 PM at The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre at 307 West 26th Street.
Do you thrill to the laughs and mayhem of Marvel.com’s signature stop motion animation masterpiece? Eagerly await each action-packed and humor-filled episode? Well, do you at least want to know how they get those action figures mouths to move and do the M.O.D.O.K. voice? This panel will feature Alex Kropinak, director of the show, as well as his fellow producers Jesse Falcon—also the lead voice actor—and Ben Morse, and contributing writer/voice actor Jon Gutierrez. The panel will be moderated by Grace Randolph, host of Marvel's The Watcher video series as well as the hit online movie show Beyond the Trailer.
In addition to the Marvel Comics presentation, the Festival will feature the Whitest Kids U Know and The Rejection ShoW and presentations by Atom: Comedy Central Digital Shorts, The Onion News Network, and 101.9RXP.
The last six years of the Festival have been a huge success, featuring over a hundred different sketch comedy groups from across North America, sold-out shows, standing ovations, and industry attendance from ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, HBO, MTV, VH1, IFC, Fuse, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, TV Land/Nick at Nite, Discovery Channel, Just For Laughs, Miramax, Tribeca Films, William Morris, ICM and many more.
The Seventh Annual Festival will be held June 8-11, 2011, and is currently sponsored by 101.9 RXP FM, Atom: Comedy Central Web Originals, The Friar’s Club, The Onion, The Sound of Young America, and UCB Comedy.
Thirty-six different groups from around North America will converge on The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre at 307 West 26th Street from June 8 – 11, 2011. Each night, New York audiences will experience the absolute best sketch comedy from around the United States. For a complete list of groups and performance times, please see the following page.
SketchFest NYC is Executive Produced by Alexander Zalben, with Becky Poole, Elizabeth Lawrence, Marni Zalben, Shayna Ferm, Jon Pack, Jason Kalter, and Stefan Lawrence. For more information, please visit the festival website at SketchFestNYC.com.
WHAT: SketchFest NYC
WHEN: June 8, 9 and 10 at 7PM, 8PM, 9PM, 10PM, 11PM & MIDNIGHT;
June 11th at 1PM, 2:30PM, 4PM, 6PM, 7PM, 8PM, 9PM, 10PM, 11PM & MIDNIGHT
WHERE: Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre; 307 West 26th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues
TICKETS: TICKETS: $10, Individual Tickets; $40, Nightly Passes; $100, Festival Passes; Online at UCBTheatre.com. Industry and Press Passes Available On Request.
FULL SCHEDULE OF PERFORMANCES FOR SKETCHFEST NYC
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8
7:00 PM The Solo Show w/I Am The Horizon, Paul Thomas, and Fraidy Cat. Hosted by Megan Kellie
8:00 PM Inside Joke Films + Gramps
9:00 PM Team Submarine + This Is About Smith
10:00 PM Kurt & Kristen
11:00 PM 101.9RXP presents Sketch Rocks, Hosted by Dave Greek
Midnight Channel 101
THURSDAY, JUNE 9
7:00 PM Paul Thomas + FreeLoveForum
8:00 PM Fraidy Cat + BoF
9:00 PM Fantasy Grandma + BriTANick
10:00 PM URDB - Live!
11:00 PM The Pyramid Shew + New Exc!tement
Midnight The Puterbaugh Sisters, Variety Hour w/Neon Lights, The CowMen, and Leibya Rogers
FRIDAY, JUNE 10
7:00 PM Klepper & Grey + The Riot Act
8:00 PM Pangea 3000 + Harvard Sailing Team
9:00 PM Whitest Kids U Know
10:00 PM Comedy Central Digital Presents
11:00 PM Rue Brutalia + Murderfist
Midnight Surprise Feature Film Screening
SATURDAY, JUNE 11
1:00 PM ONN Panel
2:30 PM Marvel's What The? Panel
4:00 PM Whitest Kids U Know Panel
6:00 PM I Am The Horizon + Two Fun Men
7:00 PM The Other Other Guys
8:00 PM Seeder & Lee
9:00 PM Oh Brother!
10:00 PM Heavyweight
11:00 PM MEAT + Elephant Larry
Midnight THE Rejection Show presents SketchFest NYC's Closing Night Craptacular
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