FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 11/03/2011

$1 WASTELAND #33 & THE RETURN TO A MONTHLY RELEASE

To celebrate the return of Antony Johnston's WASTELAND, and to kick the series into high gear with a new monthly schedule, WASTELAND #33 will be $1. WASTELAND #33 marks a great jumping on point for new readers with a brand new arc and a brand new artist in Justin Greenwood. So the question becomes: Why the long hiatus?

Writer Antony Johnston sums it up pretty simply, “We screwed up. It all started around issue #25, which was double-length and full color, and exhausted Chris Mitten. We should have given him a break after that, but we didn’t, and suddenly he was struggling to hit deadlines. For Chris, that's pretty much unheard of.” To finish out the arc, Antony and Oni Press sought out new talent to give Chris a breather. “Remington Veteto, who came on to finish out the current arc, is a great young artist but simply wasn’t ready to deal with the schedule that we had established. It was around this point we realized just how much of a machine Chris had been for us,” said Johnston.

“That's when it became clear that we needed to take steps  to get back on track,” said series editor and Oni Press EIC James Lucas Jones. “We found the perfect artist for the following arc in Justin Greenwood, best known for RESURRECTION, and he started plugging away. Justin has actually been working on WASTELAND for almost a year now, gearing up for the new schedule. We can't wait to get the series back to the fans and to gain new fans with the $1 issue.”

Original series artist and co-creator Chris Mitten is also returning, to take over covers. “Justin brings a great new vibe to the series,” said Chris. “I'm really excited to see the fan reaction to Justin's take on this world, and to be involved with WASTELAND myself in this new way.”

Jones continued, “The good news is that we’ve learned our lesson. From issue #33 onwards we’re adopting a new and better schedule.  Fans of WASTELAND can look forward to the timeliness and regularity displayed by titles like THE SIXTH GUN and SPONTANEOUS, neither of which missed a ship date in 2011.  Justin has already drawn up to #37 before we even solicit the arc, and Antony is scripting #41 right now. So we’re all working much, much further ahead than we ever have before on WASTELAND.”

Johnston has already planned out the rest of the series, right up to the final issue #60, saying “I’ve always known how WASTELAND would end, but how long it took -- and the journey from here to there -- was open. Now that we’re more than halfway through the series, I can see the landscape ahead more clearly, and every step along the way is accounted for.”

WASTELAND #33 hits store shelves on January 18th with a brand new arc, brand new artist and covers, and a special retail price of $1. Jump on now to the series that Warren Ellis calls “The best post-apocalyptic comic being published today”!

WASTELAND

100 years after the Big Wet, Earth has been left a broken, infertile world of rock and sand. The town of Providens is like many others on the post-Big Wet planet: small, mostly illiterate, and struggling for survival. When the town welcomes a stranger named Michael into its midst, will the quiet man lead them to a brave new world or shatter what little order still exists?

BORDERLINE FILMS SIGNS FIRST LOOK DEAL

WITH FOX SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE Filmmakers

Set Up Shingle at Fox Searchlight Pictures

 

LOS ANGELES, CA, November 3, 2011 - Fox Searchlight Pictures Presidents Stephen Gilula and Nancy Utley announced today that Borderline Films, the creative team behind the critically acclaimed psychological thriller MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE, and Fox Searchlight Pictures have signed a two-year, first-look deal.  Borderline Films is the partnership of Antonio Campos, Sean Durkin and Josh Mond.  Currently in theatres, MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE, Durkin's feature debut, was picked up by Fox Searchlight at this year's Sundance Film Festival and was the winner of the Dramatic Feature Directing Award.  The film went on to play such key festivals as Festival de Cannes, Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival just to name a few.

Says Borderline Films: "Fox Searchlight is an ideal home for our company.  This partnership allows us to take the momentum we've built since launching Borderline in 2003 to an entirely new level. Over the years, we've worked very hard to create a support structure which offers us the ability, resources and independence to grow as filmmakers, both individually and collectively.  We're excited and grateful that Fox Searchlight, who recognizes our company's dynamic model and has already been an incredible partner, will continue to be invested in Borderline's upcoming projects."

Utley and Gilula state: "Sean, Antonio and Josh are an exciting talent collective with unique voices and a bold vision.  They are not afraid to challenge audiences with thought provoking films. We are thrilled to be in business with them and look forward to a very creative partnership."

Borderline was represented by David Flynn at United Talent Agency, Melissa Breaux at Washington Square Arts and by attorney Peter Nelson from the law firm of Nelson Davis & Wetzstein, LLP. Fox Searchlight was represented by Senior Vice President Megan O'Brien.  Zola Mashariki, Senior Vice President of Production, will oversee Borderline's production slate.

A New York-based feature film production company, Borderline Films was formed in 2003 by Tisch film school alums Campos, Durkin and Mond.   Rotating the roles of writer, director and producer, the three filmmakers have earned acclaim around the world for their stylized and original films.

Borderline's first feature film, AFTERSCHOOL, a riveting look at the dark side of youth in the media age written and directed by Antonio Campos and produced by Mond and Durkin, premiered at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival in Un Certain Regard.  The film went on to screen at numerous other festivals around the world including New York, London, and Berlin.  AFTERSCHOOL was released theatrically by IFC Films and was nominated for Best First Feature by the Independent Spirit Awards and Breakthrough Director for Campos by the Gotham Awards.  

Borderline's latest film, the critically acclaimed psychological thriller MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE, was recently nominated for three Gotham Awards: Sean Durkin for Breakthrough Director, Elizabeth Olsen for Breakthrough Performance and Best Ensemble.

Other acclaimed Borderline projects include: BUY IT NOW, Borderline's first short film directed by Campos which won the Cinefondation prize at Cannes in 2005; writer-director Alistair Banks Griffin's lyrical feature film TWO GATES OF SLEEP which premiered at Cannes Directors Fortnight in 2010; MARY LAST SEEN, Sean Durkin's short film which won Best Short at Cannes Directors Fortnight in 2010; and Josh Mond's highly praised music video for the hit Mayday Parade song KIDS IN LOVE which was shown at the 2011 SXSW Film Festival.

Fox Searchlight Pictures is a specialty film company that both finances and acquires motion pictures.  It has its own marketing and distribution operations, and its films are distributed internationally by Twentieth Century Fox.  Fox Searchlight Pictures is a unit of Fox Filmed Entertainment, a unit of Fox Entertainment Group.

ComiXology and Teshkeel Media Group Join Forces to Launch THE 99 App and Webstore

Superheroes Based on Islamic Archetypes Spread Message of Peace and Tolerance to a Digital World

President Obama calls THE 99 "perhaps the most innovative response" to America's expanding dialogue with the Muslim world

November 3, 2011 - NYC, NY / Kuwait City, Kuwait — ComiXology and Teshkeel Media Group today announced the release of THE 99 iOS app and Webstore to sell Teshkeel's bestselling superhero comic books digitally throughout the world. THE 99 comic series is now available across the comiXology platform — iOS, Android and the Web!

To celebrate the launch, comiXology is offering a FREE introductory issue THE 99 Beginnings, the 72-page story of the origins of THE 99. Also, issue #1 through #6 are now available for sale for only $1.99 an issue on the comiXology platform.  Additional issues of THE 99 will be released on a weekly basis with every three issues being collected into a special issue at a special price.

"All of us at comiXology are proud to be a part of bringing THE 99 to a huge new audience through THE 99 iOS app and Webstore," said comiXology co-founder and CEO David Steinberger. "These top notch superhero comic books are great entertainment and at the same time teach lessons of peace and tolerance. We're happy that any comic fan with an Apple iOS device or a computer hooked up to the Internet can enjoy these comics any time and any place in the world"

"We're pleased to partner with comiXology to help bring the message of THE 99 to digital comic fans across the globe," said Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, Teshkeel’s CEO and creator of THE 99. "ComiXology has proven itself the market leader in digital comics and is a great fit to bring THE 99 to a whole new audience.”

Most recently in the news for being the focus of the PBS documentary WHAM! BAM! ISLAM!, THE 99 has been a lightening rod for controversy since creator Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa conceived of the superhero group as a way to spread a much needed message of peace and tolerance to young families throughout the Middle East and the West. Soon after publication began, the comic series was banned for a time in Saudi Arabia and just this past year anti-Islamic fringe groups in the United States helped scuttle the U.S. launch of THE 99 animated television series.

The success of the comic series led to the co-production of an animated television series with media giant Endemol, the world’s largest syndicator of television programs. While THE 99 looks for a broadcast outlet in the U.S., the television series will debut throughout the rest of the world early in 2012.

In 2010, President Obama, a well-known fan of comics, called THE 99 "perhaps the most innovative response" to America's expanding dialogue with the Muslim world.

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, IDW Publishing, Archaia Entertainment, BOOM! Studios, Dynamite Entertainment and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which host over 14,000 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.

About Teshkeel Media Group
Teshkeel Media Group (www.teshkeel.com) is the originator of THE 99, a story of modern day superheroes based on Islamic culture and history.  THE 99 debuted in 2006 in comic book form and is now an animated television series scheduled for worldwide release in 2012. THE 99 Village theme park opened is Kuwait in 2009.  In 2011, THE 99 appeared cape to shoulder with Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman in a six-part comic book crossover. American President Barack Obama praised this historic collaboration as one of the most innovative ways to spread a message of peace and tolerance to the children of the world.

THE 99 have been recognized with major awards and tributes from around the world. Recently, THE 99 and its creator, Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa were the subject of a major documentary film titled WHAM! BAM! ISLAM! on America’s PBS network. The film is now available on iTunes.

DARK HORSE COMICS TEAMS UP WITH BIOWARE

TO UNVEIL A NEW DRAGON AGE DIGITAL COMIC SERIES

Dark Horse Comics announced an all-new digital comic series based on BioWare’s dark, fantasy RPG series, Dragon Age™. Written by Dragon Age Lead Writer, David Gaider, and featuring original art by Chad Hardin (Stan Lee's The Traveler, Web of Spider-Man, The Spirit), the deep and fascinating lore surrounding the Dragon Age universe will unfold, as new adventures will come to light in the comic series.

The thrilling, six-part series will feature a riveting story that takes fans of the critically-acclaimed Dragon Age franchise deeper into the RPG’s mythology. Readers will follow Alistair, Isabela, and Varric, three important heroes from Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II, as they travel to Antiva, a nation ruled by deadly assassins. The comic series’ heroes will embark on an epic journey to uncover one of the greatest secrets in the history of Thedas while encountering a dangerous prison break and the mysterious and feared Witch of the Wilds.

Dark Horse Comics will release the six-part comic series exclusively at www.digital.darkhorse.com for $0.99 each starting February 22, 2012.

NATE COSBY’S BUDDY COPS PUNCHES THROUGH DARK HORSE PRESENTS #9! 

November 2, MILWAUKIE, OR—Dark Horse Comics announces a new story from Nate Cosby that will slap you silly! Dark Horse presents . . . Buddy Cops!

URANUS—A galactic space protector demoted to the NYPD (for drinking). 

TAZER—A reprogrammed 1970s android that follows the exact letter of the law.

They hate each other. They are BUDDY COPS.

This February, Nate Cosby (Pigs, Jim Henson’s The Storyteller), Evan Shaner (Jim Henson’s The Storyteller), and Rus Wooton (The Walking Dead) bring da motherf***in’ ruckus in an all-new story featured in Dark Horse Presents #9!

Monsters! Glowing swords! White boys rapping Wu-Tang lyrics . . . WHAT THE HELL ELSE DO YOU NEED!?!?

Wanna tweet about it? BAM!

Nate: @NateCosBOOM

Evan: @DocShaner

Rus: @RusWooton

Dark Horse Presents #9 is on sale February 22, 2012.

Jack Avarice IS The Courier Launches Today

All-new miniseries created by rising star Chris Madden
 

San Diego, CA (November 2, 2011) — IDW Publishing is pleased to announce the launch of JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER, an exciting month-long, weekly comic series releasing during the five Wednesday month of November. This miniseries is created, written, drawn, and lettered by the remarkable Chris Madden, the artist on the upcoming Danger Girl: Revolver series. Starting today, a new issue of JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER is being released weekly on all five Wednesdays of this month.

“The term ‘real deal’ is used so often, it’s almost become cliché,” said editor Tom Waltz. “But, in the case of Chris Madden and his debut comic series JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER, the term couldn’t be more apropos. Chris does it all in this series—writing, artwork, design… even letters! And he does it all in amazing fashion, producing an old school, kick-butt action romp filled with explosions, hilarious one-liners, sexy ladies and manly men, and twists and turns a’plenty. This is comic book making at its finest!”

This debut issue, now available in comic stores throughout North America, kicks off the series with the story of Jack Avarice, a down-on-his-luck kid who dreams of a life like the movies. His world is about to change when he’s recruited by the secretive agency called Courier and is dumped head-first into the world of international spying.

Each issue of this explosive miniseries will take Jack on an exhilarating new adventure, where he’ll discover that the reality of spycraft is far deadlier than any movie he could imagine. Spies, voodoo magic, deadly beauties, high-caliber thrills, and high-octane destruction, JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER has it all. Readers are encouraged to contact their local retailers about the special variant Madden sketch cover.

For more information, be sure to visit the official JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER website at http://jackavarice.blogspot.com/

JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is now available in stores. Diamond order code: SEPT11 0253.

JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #2 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on November 9, 2011. Diamond order code: SEPT11 0255.

JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #3 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on November 16, 2011. Diamond order code: SEPT11 0257.

JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #4 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on November 23, 2011. Diamond order code: SEPT11 0259.

JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #5 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on November 30, 2011. Diamond order code: SEPT11 0261.



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.

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.

Be a “Redshirt” with IDW’s Star Trek Comics Contest

One grand prize winning fan and local retailer to be featured on
an exclusive variant cover of a Star Trek comic!

Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, IDW and CBS Consumer Products
partner for Star Trek fan contest
 

San Diego, CA (November 2, 2011)—Are you a comics fan who loves your local comics store? Are you willing to “die” to protect your retailer? Prove it, with the Star Trek “Be A Redshirt” contest! Starting today, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF), IDW Publishing and CBS Consumer Products are giving Star Trek fans a chance to “Be a Redshirt” on the cover of an upcoming STAR TREK comic.

Originating in the classic Star Trek episodes and expanding to pop culture at large, a “redshirt” is a character that dies soon after being introduced. With the “Be a Reshirt” contest, the winning fan will have the honor of “dying” while heroically saving their retailer. The grand prizewinner will be featured as a “redshirt” on an upcoming cover of IDW’s new STAR TREK ongoing series, placing themselves between their local retailer and a phaser blast. The “Be a Redshirt” contest is open to any comics reader who thinks their local retailer is the best in the business.

“As redshirts are famous for always catching the phaser in Star Trek episodes, and as comic fans can be so loyal in defending their local retailer, it’s the perfect contest,” said Dirk Wood, IDW’s Director of Retailer Marketing, “And partnering with the CBLDF is perfect, because no one knows more about defending retailers than they do.”

To enter the “Be A Redshirt” contest, fans must e-mail their explanation in 300 words or less about why their retailer is the best to IDW at contests@IDWPublishing.com with the subject: Save My Retailer. The winning fan and their retailer will be depicted on a limited-edition variant cover of STAR TREK. This special cover will be limited to only 300 copies: 100 each to the winning fan and their retailer, plus 100 to CBLDF to help them continue the important and challenging work of defending retailers everywhere. The winning fan will also receive the original art, by the Sharp Brothers.

Launched in September, IDW’s new STAR TREK ongoing series explores the new Star Trek universe, following the events of the game-changing, blockbuster 2009 film. Joining forces with Star Trek writer/producer Roberto Orci, IDW and CBS explore the vast implications of the alternate timeline created by the film in this new, monthly, ongoing comics series that reimagines classic Star Trek episodes.

Under the creative direction of Orci, fan-favorite STAR TREK writer Mike Johnson and artists Stephen Molnar and Joe Corroney bring this alternate universe to life and begin the countdown to the highly anticipated Star Trek sequel. Following alternate-reality versions of “Where No One Has Gone Before” and “Galileo 7,” STAR TREK #5 kicks off a two-part re-imagining of “Operation: Annihilate.” This gripping episode brings Captain Kirk comes face to face with ghosts from his past when a rescue mission reunites him with the last person he expects to see.

In addition to print, STAR TREK comics are also available digitally through a variety of free apps, including, through the Apple’s iTunes: the Star Trek Comics app, the Comics by comiXology app and the IDW Comics app.

STAR TREK #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is now available in comic stores and on iTunes. Diamond order code JUL11 0308.

STAR TREK #2 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is now available in comic stores and on iTunes. Diamond order code AUG11 0309.

STAR TREK #3 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in comic stores and on iTunes in November. Diamond order code SEP11 0289.

STAR TREK #4 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in comic stores and on iTunes in December. Diamond order code OCT11 0359.

STAR TREK #5 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in comic stores and on iTunes in January. Diamond order code NOV11 0319.


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.

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 CBS Consumer Products
CBS Consumer Products manages worldwide licensing and merchandising for a diverse slate of television brands and series from CBS, CBS Television Studios and CBS Television Distribution, as well as from the company's extensive library of titles, Showtime and CBS Films.  Additionally, the group oversees online sales of programming merchandise.  For more information, visit www.cbsconsumerproducts.com


 (c) 2011 Paramount pictures Corporation.  TM & (c) 2011 CBS Studios Inc.  STAR TREK and related marks and logos are trademarks of CBS Studios Inc.  All Rights Reserved.

MANGA COMES TO DARK HORSE DIGITAL!

TRIGUN, OLD BOY AND MORE ADDED TO LINEUP!

November 2^nd, MILWAUKIE, OR – Manga has arrived! The Dark Horse Digital store now offers a full and ongoing Manga selection featuring Trigun, Crying Freeman, Hellsing, Lady Snowblood, Old Boy and Path of the Assassin. Not only are these titles available digitally, but also the latest version of the Dark Horse Digital app lets you read them in the way Manga was meant to be read…right to left!

Don't have the App? You can download it for free!

As Always, make sure to visit Digital.Darkhorse.com weekly for more great sales and offers.

Until next week, may your battery be fully charged! 

----

Release Date: 11/02/2011

Trigun vol. 1 & 2

BPRD: 1947 #1-5

BPRD Hell on Earth: Russia #2

Crying Freeman vol. 1 & 2

Hellsing vol. 1-3

Lady Snowblood vol. 1

Lone Wolf and Cub vol. 10

Old Boy vol. 1 & 2

Path of the Assassin vol. 1

Robert E. Howard's Savage Sword #3

Star Wars Legacy #13 - 15

Chimichanga

The Goon #26

Star Wars: Crimson Empire III: Lost Empire #1

Release Date: 11/09/2011

House of Night #1

Baltimore: The Curse Bells #3

Conan the Cimmerian #13 - 16

Gear School #2

Lady Snowblood vol. 2

Orchid #2

Paradox Entertainment Presents: Kult #4

Serenity: Downtime and Other Half

Star Wars: Empire #1 - 4

Star Wars: Boba Fett: Overkill

The End League #1 - 4

The Goon #27

Release Date: 11/16/2011

Mass Effect: Invasion #2

Abe Sapien: The Devil Does Not Jest #2

Gigantic #1 - 5

Hellboy: Weird Tales #1-4

Kull: The Cat and the Skull #2

Dark Horse Presents # 5

Samurai Executioner vol. 6

Star Wars: Purge #2

Star Wars: Dark Times #1-5

The Goon #28

The Occultist #1

Fallout: New Vegas

Release Date: 11/23/2011

Usagi Yojimbo # 141 (200th Issue)

BPRD: The Ectoplasmic Man

Conan: Road of Kings #10

Groo: Hell on Earth #1-4

Hellsing vol. 4

Path of the Assassin vol. 2 & 3

Rex Mundi: Book Three

Star Wars Adventures: Boba Fett and the Ship of Fear

Star Wars Invasion #0-5

Star Wars: Invasion: Revelations #5

Star Wars: Knight Errant: Deluge #4

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic #19-24

The Goon #29

Trigun Maximum vol. 4

Release Date: 11/30/2011

Hellboy: House of the Living Dead

Color of Rage

Conan the Cimmerian #17-20

Hellboy: House of the Living Dead

Star Wars Adventures: The Will of Darth Vader

Star Wars Legacy #17-20

The End League #5-9

The Goon #30

About Dark Horse Digital Comics

Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has grown to become the third-largest comics publisher in the United States and is acclaimed internationally for the quality and diversity of its line. Now, in 2011, the company that revolutionized the comic industry proudly presents its groundbreaking digital-publishing program, Dark Horse Digital.

Having launched with hundreds of titles, Dark Horse Digital offers its most popular titles at an unprecedented value, while providing the highest-quality reading experience possible. Single-issue comics are priced as low as just $0.99, and there is also an extensive list of free introductory #1 issues. Additionally, DH Digital’s “bundles” group together story arcs spanning multiple issues into affordable packages, allowing readers to get the three or four issues that comprise a complete narrative, starting at just $3.99 and up. And through cloud-based technology, Digital Store purchases can be read and enjoyed on your laptop, desktop, mobile browser, and Dark Horse Bookshelf app, available now on iTunes.

To get started, simply log on to Digital.DarkHorse.com or download the app to create an account, and begin building your collection today.

TOM MORELLO’S ORCHID #1 SELLS OUT OF COMIC SHOPS!

November 2nd, MILWAUKIE, OR – Demand for Tom Morello’s epic dystopian fantasy has driven comic stores across the U.S. to a complete sell out of issue #1!

From the mind of musician Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, The Nightwatchman), with art by Scott Hepburn (Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic), Orchid is the tale of a teenage prostitute who learns that she is more than the role society has imposed upon her.

Issue #1 - When the seas rose, genetic codes were smashed. Now, human settlements are ringed by a dense wilderness, from which ferocious new animal species prey on the helpless. The high ground belongs to the rich and powerful, who overlook swampland shantytowns from their fortresslike cities. Iron-fisted rule ensures order and allows the wealthy to harvest the poor as slaves. Welcome to the world of Orchid.

Look for news about an Orchid #1 reprint on the Dark Horse Blog, but in the meantime head to your local comic shop and grab one of the final copies of #1 for only $1 before they’re gone for good!

Orchid #2 is on sale November 9^th, 2011

Issue #2 - Orchid, along with her little brother and an unexpected ally named Simon, find themselves in unknown territory after they're captured and sold by slave traders. Headed toward the feared Fortress Penuel, Simon must mount an escape plan if he's going to rescue his rebel comrades and return the mysterious and powerful mask of General China to its rightful owner--a saint believed to save the oppressed from the wicked Tomo Wolfe.

About Dark Horse Comics 

Since 1986, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Gerard Way, and comics legend Will Eisner, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as the Mask, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Additionally, its highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton, Trigun, Serenity, and Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of licensed comics material.

VIZ MEDIA TO RELEASE ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
PROFESSOR LAYTON AND THE ETERNAL DIVA

Based On The Popular Nintendo Video Game,

Tea-Loving Archeologist And Polymath Sets Out To Solve

His Toughest Puzzle Yet!

San Francisco, CA, November 1, 2011 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, will release a new anime feature-length film, PROFESSOR LAYTON AND THE ETRENAL DIVA, on DVD November 8^th. The movie is based on the highly popular PROFESSOR LAYTON series of video games for the Nintendo DS and will be suitable for All Ages. The DVD features both subtitled and dubbed English dialogue options, and will carry an MSRP of $19.97 U.S. / $19.98 CAN.

Professor Layton, a true English gentleman, renowned archaeologist, and the world’s greatest amateur super sleuth, embarks on his most daring adventure yet when he receives a letter from his old student, the famous opera diva Janice Quatlane. She is set to perform at the legendary Crown Petone Opera House and invites him to attend as her special guest. Meanwhile, a spate of disappearances hits London. Two young school girls are the latest victims and the Professor suspects it’s related to the mysterious occurrences at the theatre. The Professor and his loyal assistant Luke travel to the Opera House to solve their toughest puzzle yet, the mystery of Eternal Life!

“PROFESSOR LAYTON AND THE ETERNAL DIVA combines plenty of action and mystery with intriguing puzzles and a healthy dose of fun English wit to make for an inviting whodunit sure to captivate a wide audience,” says Brian Ige, Vice President, Animation. “The many puzzles that made the original Nintendo DS video game a hit are also present throughout the new feature film, and viewers are allowed time to formulate their own solutions to the riddles and brainteasers before Professor Layton provides the final answer. We invite new and established fans alike to join the fun as the Professor searches to solve the mysteries of Eternal Life hidden at the Crown Petone Opera House!”

The PROFESSOR LAYTON video game series is one of the most successful Nintendo DS exclusive titles. In addition to the popular movie, which was released in Japan in 2009, the property features five games developed by Level-5 for the Nintendo DS as well as two more game titles for the Nintendo 3DS. The games each feature various puzzles and mysteries that must be solved in order to advance to the next level.

For more information on PROFESSOR LAYTON AND THE ETRENAL DIVA, please visit: www.VIZ.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine and blockbuster properties like Naruto, Bleach and InuYasha, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

AMALA’S BLADE COMES TO DARK HORSE PRESENTS IN FEBRUARY 2012! 

November 1^st, MILWAUKIE, OR – Dark Horse Comics is proud to announce a brand new three-part story from Steve Horton (DC Holiday Special, Superman 80-Page Giant) and Michael Dialynas (Popgun, Trinkets) appearing in Dark Horse Presents #9 – Amala’s Blade.

Amala was once chosen as a child to be the spiritual leader for her country, to unite the Purifiers and Modifiers and prevent war. She fled into the night. Twenty years of war later, she makes a living as an assassin, but her past is ever ready to catch up to her. Aboard a massive pirate ship, Amala stalks the fearsome pirate captain Cha'Kooh ... but the voices in her head, manifesting as ghosts, keep getting in the way!

Amala’s Blade will be featured in issues #9, #10 & #11 of Dark Horse Presents.

"Amala’s Blade is the steam punk-with-swords epic that I've been dying to tell," says Steve Horton, writer and letterer. "Thanks to the extraordinary and talented artist Michael Dialynas, we've brought Amala to life. Thanks to Dark Horse Comics, we've found an amazing and supportive publisher for our three-issue run in Dark Horse Presents. This story has heart, sword fighting, sarcasm, revenge, pirates, technologically modified villains, a girl steam punk heroine, and a robotic pirate monkey. What more do you need?" says Horton.

Dark Horse Presents #9 is out February 22^nd, 2012!

 

DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES 2012 STAR WARS INCENTIVE PROGRAM! 

November 1^st, MILWAUKIE, OR—Dark Horse is excited to offer retailers a special stock-up incentive tied to five great new Star Wars series in 2012!

Retailers who order fifteen copies of any of the following titles will receive 5 percent off of their initial orders for that title: Knights of the Old Republic: War, Dawn of the Jedi, Knight Errant III, Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison, Blood Ties: Boba Fett Is Dead.

Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison—Ghost Prison takes place a year after Revenge of the Sith and will showcase Darth Vader’s impact on the galaxy in ways fans have never seen. Darth Vader will serve the Emperor to the best of his abilities. After all, Darth Vader makes no mistakes.

Knights of the Old Republic: War—The Knights of the Old Republic video games and comics chronicle one of the most popular eras in Star Wars, making Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic—War the perfect entry point into the Star Wars galaxy!

Dawn of the Jedi—Here’s your first look at the Star Wars of 25,000 years ago—before there were lightsabers, when the ties to the Force were new, and before the Jedi spread out into the galaxy. It began with the mysterious pyramid ships—the Tho Yor—scattered to the eight corners of the galaxy, and ended with the establishment of an order that would change the universe forever.

Blood Ties: Boba Fett Is Dead—Boba Fett is dead. The most infamous hunter in the galaxy has been hunted. He’s lying, broken, on the desert floor. He’s more blaster holes than man. It’s the ultimate ending. However, this is just the start of our story. With the fall of Fett broadcast across the galaxy, someone rises to avenge him.

Knight Errant III—Jedi Knight Kerra Holt continues her one-woman crusade against the Sith from behind enemy lines on her most dangerous mission yet!

Look for Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic–War #1 in this month’s issue of the Diamond Previews catalog!

Sold your soul? Now steal it back....Lockbox Arrives Fall 2012

Six  criminals.  One  heist. A  box  with  a  thousand  souls.  This  is  the  story  of  LOCKBOX,  and  how  it  all went wrong.

(Los Angles , CA- Oct 31, 2011) 1821 Comics announced today a new graphic novel from New York Times #1 bestselling author Tony Lee (Dr Who, Spiderman, 2000AD).  Full color art will be provided by Daniele Serra (Image Comics, Black Coat Press).  
1821 Comic’s VP of Development & Production Billy" Piché explains the book, “It’s  a supernatural heist story kinda like Constantine  meets  Reservoir  Dogs . A  group  of  differing  criminals  team  up  to  steal  a  Lockbox  from  a  bank – but  there’s  more  to  the  box  than  meets  the  eye.  It’s  the  secure  place  that  the  Devil  places  the  souls  that  he’s  bargained  for – and  as  the  heist  goes  wrong  the  criminals find themselves in a war between heaven and hell.”

Preview of the book available at www.1821comics.com
LOCKBOX is the next mature audiences title from 1821 Comics. It follows this season's blockbuster release from 1821 Comics and Stan Lee Romeo and Juliet : The War!  Full color in hardcover and softcover the book reinvents the starcrossed lovers in a far off future filled with cyborgs and mutants. Romeo and Juliet: The War hits shelves November 30th, 2011. Consumers can stay up to date on the latest news, events, giveaways and contests on facebook and twitter.
www.1821comics.comwww.facebook.com/1821comicshttp://twitter.com/1821comicshttp://www.youtube.com/1821Comics

ABOUT 1821 COMICS

1821 Comics is a comic book/graphic novel company based in Los Angeles, California and founded by entrepreneurs Paris Kasidokostas Latsis and Terry Dougas. The company is devoted to bringing exciting, eye-popping new titles to the world of comics. Along with its own titles, 1821 is teaming up with some of the top publishers on cutting-edge books. 1821 Comics will remain a diverse publisher with projects for both men and women, spanning all age groups. The company is highly devoted to story, content and artwork that will move readers from beginning to end.

KARL KESEL LAUNCHES JOHNNY ZOMBIE WEB COMIC!
TAUT TALE OF UNDEAD TERROR!
ALSO: A CHRISTMAS STORY

Karl Kesel— a writer and artist who has worked on many of Marvel and DC’s top titles, and come oh-so-close to winning a number of industry awards— launches his first creator-owned web comic on October 31, 2011. JOHNNY ZOMBIE debuts on his Mad Genius Comics site, madgeniuscomics.com

“I’ve wanted to do a zombie comic for many, many years,” Kesel said. “Excuse the pun, but I’m no Johnny-Zombie-come-lately to the living dead. I left in the middle of Romero’s Night of the Living Dead the first time I saw it in the late 70s, it creeped me out so much (I was a sheltered teen, okay?)— and then ended up in the front row to watch the original Dawn of the Dead during it’s opening weekend a few years later. Those experiences scarred me for life, I’m happy to say.

“About a year ago I wondered: could you do a zombie Christmas story? The two genres are so opposite— zombie stories have a core sense of hopelessness, and Christmas stories are all about hope. Almost instantly, however, an idea came to me. And I realized it was also a perfect story to feature a character that’d been kicking around in my head for a few years— Johnny Zombie.

“On one level, Johnny Zombie is the world’s biggest, baddest zombie fighter. His main weapons are a blue metal bat named ‘Babe’ (after Babe Ruth) and an armored glove he calls ‘Jawbreaker.’ His symbol is a kind of unsmiling smiley-face with a bullet hole in its forehead. And that stuff’s all very fun and very cool, but there’s a deeper level to the character, something going on below the surface, that I don’t want to say too much about. I want people to read the story and, hopefully, start to figure it out themselves.

“I actually pitched Johnny Zombie to a print publisher a few years back, but their “zombie slot” was filled, so they passed. That’s when I started eyeing the internet. I mean, the web’s the future of comics. And it’s probably the most exciting thing to happen to comics since… well, since the early days of the newspaper strips. Just like then, everyone’s making it up as they go along, trying to figure out how the pieces fit, what works and what doesn’t. I’ve told people I’m doing a web comic and they’re excited, sure, but the most exciting thing to me is how many of them say ‘I’ll add it to my list— I read so many web comics!’ These are people who don’t read “normal” comics— but they’re reading web comics!”

Kesel had been trying to figure out how to fit a web comic into his life for a number of years. “I’m not a fast worker, so don’t have a lot of free time to take on extra work. A web comic was always a ‘someday’ project.

“Then my wonderful wife Myrna and I decided to adopt a baby. That was the tipping point. It suddenly became about my legacy, and what I could leave behind for our son or daughter.”

Kesel named his site Mad Genius Comics (where he is “Using My Power For Good, Not evil. Mostly.”) because “I plan to do any number of characters and concepts at Mad Genius. Some of these comics will be drawn by others, some I’ll draw myself, and I wouldn’t rule out me drawing someone else’s story, but I’ll always own or co-own anything that appears on Mad Genius Comics. Remember— I’m doing this for the kid!”

Johnny Zombie’s first story is penciled by David Hahn, known for his art on BITE CLUB, SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE, MARVEL ADVENTURES: FANTASTIC FOUR, FRINGE, HERC, and ALL-NIGHTER. “I love David’s work, and knew his style had enough edge for a zombie story, but was also open enough to fit a Christmas story. And, selfishly speaking, I’ve always wanted to ink David, so this was one way to finally get that chance!” The story is colored by Grace Allison, a recent graduate from the Savannah College of Art and Design and one-time intern at Portland, Oregon’s Periscope Studio, where Kesel met her. “She’s got so much talent beyond coloring,” Kesel pointed out. “I’m lucky I got to work with her before the rest of the world discovered her.”

“I’m not expecting to get rich off Mad Genius,” Kesel laughed. “I’d be thrilled— and pretty surprised— to just break even! I’m following the ‘Iron Man Business Plan’— exist in obscurity for 40 years, then have a hugely successful Hollywood movie made and become an overnight sensation. Anything happens faster than that is icing on the cake!”

madgeniuscomics.com
johnnyzombiecomic.com

TED MCKEEVER GOES MONDO

Indie Legend Publishes New Miniseries with Image Comics in January

Berkeley, CA – 31 October 2011 -- This January, Ted McKeever will be introducing the world to MONDO, his new three issue miniseries from Shadowline and Image Comics, in all its raging glory!

Though McKeever has worked on titles for Marvel and DC, including Spiderman and Doom Patrol, he is best known for his independent, creator-owned works such as TRANSIT, EDDY CURRENT, METROPOL, and the recent META 4. McKeever has been a cult favorite in the comics industry since the 1980's, an uncompromising one man comics team, consistently creating smart and uniquely twisted comics with a gritty, subliminal quality to their black and white inked pages. His work is often executed in mixed media, creating layers as rich and dirty as the stories themselves, and McKeever's new MONDO will be no different.

"Compared to my other work, I think fans will easily be able to tell this is my work," said McKeever. "And I have definitely not held back at all in this one!"

"McKeever kicks it out again with mind-blowing imagery, wild characters and multi-layered concepts," says Shadowline publisher Jim Valentino. "He never disappoints and MONDO will be counted as one of his best yet."

MONDO begins with Catfish's daily grind of "enhancing" poultry, but all that comes to a halt when he is accidentally tripped up by a loose chicken, causing him to fall victim to his own process. What proportions of his that were once human are now beyond anything normal! Add villainous corporate and military big wigs, a roller-skating weapon-toting chick named Kitten Kaboodle, a gang of tattooed babies, an enormous beach monster... and you have Ted McKeever's MONDO!

MONDO #1 (NOV110366), a 32-page Golden Age format black and white comic book for $3.99, will be on sale in stores and digital platforms on January 4, and is available for order now in the November issue of Previews.

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

INDOMINA CATCHES “CABIN FEVER”

The Indomina Group Picks Up Options For Two New “Cabin Fever” Films

Los Angeles, CA – October 31, 2011 – It was announced today that The Indomina Group, the fast-growing U.S. and Dominican Republic based producer and distributor of film, TV and trans-media content, and leading proponent of ‘fanboy’ cinema is resurrecting the popular “Cabin Fever” franchise and will produce and distribute at least two more feature films. The announcement was made by Indomina Group Vice Chairman and CEO Jasbinder Singh Mann.

The Indomina Group has optioned the rights for two new “Cabin Fever” installments, which will be “Cabin Fever: Patient Zero” and “Cabin Fever: Outbreak.” The films will be shot back to back in the Dominican Republic in early Spring of 2012.

Jake Wade Wall (“The Hitcher,” “When Strangers Call”) has signed on to pen the screenplay for “Cabin Fever: Patient Zero.” When a cruise ship in the Caribbean collides with an abandoned research vessel, a deadly virus is unleashed. Passengers must find a way to survive before the flesh eating disease consumes them all.

“Cabin Fever: Outbereak” is being written by Adam and Deborah Marcus (“Leatherface 3D,” “I Walked With a Zombie”). In this film a doctor and his family travel to a remote Caribbean island to investigate a minor flu outbreak, only to discover a vicious flesh-eating virus that threatens everyone on the island. The family is faced with responsibility to prevent a worldwide epidemic.

Original “Cabin Fever” producer Hypotenuse Pictures is producing these next two films. Indomina Group Vice Chairman and CEO Jasbinder Singh Mann is executive producer on both films.

“We see tremendous potential with the ‘Cabin Fever’ franchise,” said Singh Mann. “We are committing to two new ‘Cabin Fever’ films because there is a real demand from a devout fanbase – not just ‘Cabin Fever’ die hards but a large and vocal group of horror fans around the world. Indomina is excited to take the reigns of the franchise and deliver on these next two films.”

The Indomina Group has been active of late, having recently acquired North American distribution rights (as well as financing and selling) the comedy “A Fantastic Fear of Everything” starring Simon Pegg (“Shaun of the Dead,” “Hot Fuzz”) as well as the thriller “Life Without Principle” – the newest film from internationally acclaimed director/producer and contemporary maestro of Hong Kongese action cinema Johnnie To.

In July, Indomina announced a partnership with Samuel L. Jackson to produce a new live action “Afro Samurai” film based on the popular animated series that has spawned an impressive franchise and a global following. This highly anticipated film project is expected to come off the ground in 2012.

Indomina's critically-acclaimed epic adventure “Detective Dee and The Mystery of the Phantom Flame” directed by Tsui Hark is on the home stretch of a successful theatrical run that saw it earn the highest per-screen box office average of Labor Day holiday weekend in North America. Other recent releases include the romantic comedy “Griff the Invisible,” starring Ryan Kwanten (“True Blood”), Yuen Woo Ping’s martial arts feature "True Legend," starring Vincent Zhao, Zhou Xun, Michelle Yeoh and the late David Carradine, and Teddy Chan’s award-wining “Bodyguards & Assassins.” 

About Indomina:

The Indomina Group is a vertically integrated independent studio launched in 2008 by Vice Chairman and CEO Jasbinder Singh Mann.

Operating in Los Angeles and the Dominican Republic, Indomina takes a transmedia approach to collaborating with content creators around the world to bring innovative entertainment properties to the market.

The global operations of Indomina include the production and distribution of motion pictures, television, music, interactive games, and the ownership of world-class studio facilities and production services.

Earlier this year, Indomina Releasing, the North American distribution division of the Indomina Group, inked an exclusive multi-year distribution deal with Vivendi Entertainment that spans home video, digital, internet, television, VOD and mobile platforms and reinforces Indomina’s strategy to establish a leadership position in the independent film market, focusing on genre based content and creating a destination for young, dedicated consumers of the fanboy culture.

The Indomina Group has also partnered with world-renowned Pinewood Studios Group, to build, operate, manage and market a new state-of-the-art film and television studio facility in the Dominican Republic. “Pinewood Indomina Studios” will be a full-service, world-class production facility for film, TV, and other related media content.

For more information please visit www.indomina.com

PAPER + PLASTICK RELEASES “WORDS AND PANELS,” COLLECTION OF FIRST INSTALLMENTS OF WEBCOMICS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Paper + Plastick Records has made a furious entrance into the comic book world in 2011, and now the label is launching “Words and Panels Vol. 1” – a collection of the first installments of its three rising webcomics. Featuring the first episodes of “50 States,” “Exit Interview” and “Kill the Wonderhawks,” the collection is Paper + Plastick’s first-ever physical comic book release. Printed on heavy, durable paper, the comic book is sure to last readers a lifetime and will be a heavily trafficked commodity in at only $5 a pop. This item is available NOW at http://store.paperandplastick.com/product/categories/1478 “Words and Panels Vol. 1” is the best way to get in on the ground floor of Paper + Plastick’s latest venture; for those who have missed any episodes of any of the webcomics so far, “Words and Panels” provides the opportunity to catch up on all of them, all at once. The printed book contains the first two episodes of “50 States,” the first two episodes of “Exit Interview” and the first episode of “Kill The Wonderhawks.” Each of the webcomics are all still available for free download in the Paper + Plastick webstore.
More about 50 STATES: Scripted by Matt Anderson and drawn by Matt Jordan, 50 States is the most music-related webcomic put out by Paper + Plastick so far. Each episode traces a band on tour – Episode 1 featured Less Than Jake and Episode 2 had The Dopamines – and the bands themselves are the primary authors. With many more episodes of 50 States to come(ahem, probably around 50), the label encourages potential collectors to get in on the ground floor while they can.	More about EXIT INTERVIEW: The series, which is written by Matt Anderson and illustrated by Brian Mead, made a splash onto the scene with its first two episodes, which were given away for free in exchange for tweeting. Exit Interview traces a young teenager, navigating his way through the loss of a family and trying to find himself all at the same time.	More about KILL THE WONDERHAWKS: Written by Dave Losso, drawn by Aaron Pittman and colored by Alejandro Rosado, Kill The Wonderhawks has been subject to favorable reviews after three webcomic episode releases. Kathleen Boyle of Gainesville’s The Independent Florida Alligator called it “bombastically illustrated superhero hilarity,” adding that Kill The Wonderhawks is a “nimble affair with comedic goodness so sweet, one will feel a cheat snatching this download for free.”

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