CONAN/GROO CROSSOVER!

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!

January 13, MILWAUKIE, OR—What was rumored as an April Fools’ joke has turned into a full-blown miniseries sure to bring laughs and excitement. Dark Horse Comics is proud to announce Groo vs. Conan!

It had to happen: The most heroic warrior in history meets the stupidest, as Robert E. Howard’s immortal Conan the Barbarian crosses swords with Sergio Aragonés’s Groo the Wanderer in Groo vs. Conan #1! 

This four-issue miniseries was concocted by the Eisner Award–winning team of Mark Evanier and Sergio Aragonés, aided by master illustrator Thomas Yeates and master colorist Tom Luth. Will Conan annihilate Groo? Will Groo turn out to be the man who can defeat Conan? We’ll see.

Groo vs. Conan is on sale April 18, 2012! 

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, Will Eisner, and best-selling prose author Janet Evanovich, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as the Mask, Timecop, and the Occultist. Additionally, its highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan the Barbarian, Mass Effect, Serenity, and Domo. Today, Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the United States and is recognized as both an innovator in the cause of creator rights and the comics industry’s leading publisher of licensed material.

DARK HORSE ORIGINALS MAKE WAVES!

MATT KINDT AND GILBERT HERNANDEZ RETURN WITH NEW PROJECTS!

January 13, MILWAUKIE, OR—Dark Horse Originals is proud to announce two new amazing series from critically acclaimed creators Matt Kindt and Gilbert Hernandez!

Matt Kindt, the most original voice in genre comics, outdoes himself in his bold new espionage series, Mind MGMT. Reporting on a commercial flight where everyone aboard lost their memories, a young journalist stumbles onto a much bigger story, the top-secret Mind Management program. Her ensuing journey involves weaponized psychics, hypnotic advertising, talking dolphins, and seemingly immortal pursuers, as she attempts to find the flight’s missing passenger, the man who was Mind Management’s greatest success—and its most devastating failure. But in a world where people can rewrite reality itself, can she trust anything she sees? If you think you know what Matt Kindt can deliver, you haven’t seen anything yet!

Comics luminary Gilbert Hernandez envisions his strangest, most thrilling future yet in Fatima: The Blood Spinners, a horrifying new take on zombies! A drug called “spin” offers the wildest trip imaginable, followed by its users’ inevitable, rapid deterioration into undead flesh eaters. Despite the side effect, the drug is so popular that the human population is dying out! With no cure to be found, the beautiful, lovesick Fatima may be the only thing standing between the survivors and the apocalypse. Get ready for four issues of zombies, drug lords, and gorgeous women!

Also, announced last week was multiple Harvey and Eagle Award winner Peter Bagge’s Reset, which leads off the Dark Horse Originals variant-cover program.

Reset #1 is on sale April 18, 2012, and features a variant cover by Matt Kindt!

Mind MGMT #1 is on sale May 23, 2012, and features a variant cover by Gilbert Hernandez!

Fatima #1 is on sale June 20, 2012, and features a variant cover by Peter Bagge!

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, Will Eisner, and best-selling prose author Janet Evanovich, Dark Horse has developed such successful characters as the Mask, Timecop, and the Occultist. Additionally, its highly successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan the Barbarian, Mass Effect, Serenity, and Domo. Today, Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic-book publisher in the United States and is recognized as both an innovator in the cause of creator rights and the comics industry’s leading publisher of licensed material.

NAMCO BANDAI GAMES CELEBRATES OVER 10 MILLION NARUTO™ AND NARUTO SHIPPUDEN™ GAMES SHIPPED WORLDWIDE

The Unstoppable Ninja Fighting Game Series Launched in 2003 Flies Past Major Milestone as the Latest Title Prepares to Hit Retail

SAN JOSE, Calif., (January 13, 2012) – Champagne corks are popping today at NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. following the news that the NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN video game franchises have shipped an incredible 10 million copies worldwide since the launch of the first game in 2003 (Japan/Asia 1.9 million units, North America 4.3 million units, Europe 3.8 million units). NAMCO BANDAI Games began releasing NARUTO videogames in March 2003 and has published a total of 15 titles to date across multiple platforms.

Since 2003 NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. has had the privilege to work very closely with a number of talented developers on the series including the exceptional team at CyberConnect2.  NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja ® STORM 2 from CyberConnect2 was released in October 2010 for PlayStation®3 and Xbox 360® and has been a huge success with global sales in excess of one million units. 

To celebrate the 10 million sales milestone in his own inimitable style, the charismatic president of CyberConnect2, Hiroshi Matsuyama, will run all 26 miles and 385 yards (42.195km) of the Marathon de Paris in France dressed as NARUTO on April 15th, 2012, joined by producers from NAMCO BANDAI Games.  He’s already engaged in a hard NARUTO-style training regime to get in shape for the event!

Also, for the first time in the history of the series, NAMCO BANDAI Games is pleased to announce a collaboration between the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN videogames and the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN trading card game, which will see the light of day within the same release window as NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations on March 13^th, 2012.

“We’re very glad and proud to have achieved 10 million units worldwide for the NARUTO franchise, and we promise you that we will keep working very hard on this important series to carry on exciting all the fans around the world. Thanks again for all of your support, and I wish you all the best for 2012!” said Yusuke Sasaki, Producer at NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc.

Developed by CyberConnect2, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations is the latest title in the hit ‘NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm’ series of games. The title propels the series into the future with revolutionary online play and more playable and support characters than ever before.  With original Japanese voiceovers and a faithful presentation, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations is an essential addition to the smash hit NARUTO series of games. The games are based on the popular animated NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN series from VIZ Media from the manga created by Masashi Kishimoto (also available from VIZ Media),

For more information on NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations please visit http://www.namcobandaigames.com. For more information and to view free streaming episodes of NARUTO and the uncut NARUTO SHIPPUDEN (both rated TV-14), please visit www.naruto.com or www.VIZAnime.com.

#  #  #

About NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., part of NAMCO BANDAI Holdings Inc., is a leading global publisher and developer of interactive content — including all major video game consoles, iOS, mobile and online.  The company is known for creating and publishing many of the industry’s top video game franchises, including PAC-MAN^®, Tekken^®, SOULCALIBUR^®, NARUTO™, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN™, Dragon Ball^®, GALAGA^®, RIDGE RACER® and ACE COMBAT^®.  More information about the company and its products can be found at www.namcobandaigames.com or www.facebook.com/namco

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.

VIZ MEDIA KICKS OFF 2012 NINJA STYLE WITH NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK

New Guide Offers Fans Essential NARUTO Character Info As Well As Never-Before-Revealed Data And Secrets

San Francisco, CA, January 12, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, opens the new year with the latest addition to its extensive library of NARUTO titles. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is available now, offers essential information on key characters from the smash-hit action series, and includes 8 full-color pages. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER BOOK is rated ‘T’ for Teens and will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN.

A ninja knows all! And now you can too! Here's all the intel you need on who's who in NARUTO!.THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK gives you all you need stay the expert on all things NARUTO. Whether you're catching up, brushing up, or just getting started with the goings-on in ninja world, this handy, huge guide covers the whole story all the way to Volume 43 of the best-selling manga (graphic novel) series!

“NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is a treasure-trove of essential information that will be a must-read for both casual and die-hard NARUTO fans,” says Joel Enos, Editor. “Inside these pages, you'll find never-before revealed data, secrets, and even a few scandals involving your favorite, as well as most-hated, shinobi. And fans won’t want to miss a new manga tale from NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto that you can't find in English anywhere else!”

Created by Masashi Kishimoto, NARUTO was first introduced in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in Japan in 1999 and quickly became that country’s most popular ninja manga targeting tweens and teens. The manga series (rated ‘T’ for Teens) and animated counterpart (NARUTO rated ‘T’ for teens, and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN rated ‘T+’ for older teens), depicting the adventures of ninja-in-training Uzumaki Naruto, is one of VIZ Media’s most successful properties and has captivated millions of fans across North America, Europe and South America. The NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN animated series are co-productions of TV TOKYO, VIZ Media parent company Shueisha Inc., and Pierrot Co., Ltd.

More information on NARUTO is available at www.Naruto.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.

VIZ MEDIA LAUNCHES FUN, ADORABLE KIDS’ MANGA FLUFFY, FLUFFY CINNAMOROLL

Cute Flying Long-Eared Pup With A Penchant For Cinnamon Rolls Takes Off For Colorful Adventures In New VIZ Kids Manga Release 

San Francisco, CA, January 12, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, delivers some sweet high-flying fun with the debut of the VIZ Kids manga (graphic novel) property, FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll, available now. The colorful new adventure, with story and art by Yumi Tsukirino, is rated ‘A’ for All Ages, and will carry an MSRP of $7.99 U.S. / $9.99 CAN.

Meet the puppy with a tail like a cinnamon roll!

Cinnamoroll is no ordinary pup. He loves freshly baked cinnamon rolls and uses his long ears to fly high into the sky! With his friends Chiffon, Mocha, Espresso, Cappuccino and little Milk, he’s always on the lookout for a new adventure. In their first journey, Milk has disappeared through a mysterious door and only Cinnamoroll can save him! Will he find the courage to help his friend and still make it back to Café Cinnamon in time for tea?

“FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll is a whimsical all-ages manga adventure based on an adorable Sanrio character created by Chisato Seki,” says Traci Todd, Senior Editor, Childrens Publishing. “The cute floppy-eared pup is the latest character to join the VIZ Kids family, which also features MAMESHIBA, POKÉMON, and MR. MEN AND LITTLE MISS. Cinnamoroll is very popular in Japan, where he was the star of a 2007 anime feature film called Cinnamon The Movie. We hope this flying canine and his loveable friends will soon find a way into the hearts of readers everywhere with this fun manga story.”

Author and manga creator Yumi Tsukirino debuted in the Japanese magazine Ciao in 1996 with “Crystal Change!!” Her other works include PiPiPi ☆ Adventure, Piyo Piyo ☆ Clinic, Chamo Chamo ☆ Pretty♪, and several Pokémon manga, in addition to creating numerous manga short stories.

FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll was conceived by Chisato Seki who began her independent career after having worked for a publishing company. Seki is the author of the Cinnamoroll picture book titled Cinnamoroll and the Lost Puppy, which was published in Japan by Shogakukan.

For more information on FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll and other VIZ Kids titles, please visit www.VIZKids.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including the popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and website at www.VIZ.com.

BENAROYA AND IMAGE TAKE AIM WITH MARKSMEN

Image Comics Collects The 6-Issue Sci-Fi Miniseries

 

Image Comics is proud to announce the March release of MARKSMEN VOL. 1 TP, written by David Baxter, illustrated by Javier Aranda (Star Trek: The Next Generation: Ghosts) and Garry Leach (Judge Dredd, Marvelman), co-created and edited by Dave Elliott and produced by Benaroya Publishing. MARKSMEN VOL. 1 TP collects issues #1-6 of the sold out miniseries and will include a never-before-seen 4-page illustrated introduction to the world of MARKSMEN, an epilogue from 5 time Hugo Award winning science fiction novelist Vernor Vinge and extras such as a gallery page of covers by acclaimed artist Tomm Coker (Daredevil:Noir, Undying Love).

 

Based on real life economic hardships, MARKSMEN takes place in dystopian world just one step removed from our own. After a massive recession, the United States government collapsed and a civil war erupted between the cities and states to keep any last resources to themselves. This destroyed our country’s infrastructure and most of its population…the Big Collapse.

 

Out of the ashes rose New San Diego, one a few cities that survived by cutting itself off from the outside world. Rebuilt by a group of top scientists and protected by the Navy Seals stationed at the Coronado Navel Base, NSD became a technological utopia. After sixty years war threatens to break out again when another state attempts to occupy the city, seizing their resources.Their only hope for survive rests with the ancestors of the Navy Seals who protect the city as… MARKSMEN.

 

Rave reviews for MARKSMEN include:

 

“9.0 out of 10” - Impulse Gamer

 

“The action is solid, and the story adds layers to the already interesting original concept as it progresses.“ - Geeks of Doom

 

"A home run." - Comic Buzz

 

“David Baxter is mashing together two distinct genres – science fiction and westerns – and does a great job of blending them together.” - First Comic News

 

“Javier Aranda’s art with Garry Leach’s inks work well for this book. They do an excellent job in making the story move.” - My Comic Network

 

“The dialog is snappy, the action is poppin', and things are looking grim all over.“ - Sequential Tart

 

“The characters are full of life and they will draw you into this story.” - Jazma Online

:

MARKSMEN VOL. 1 TP  (JAN120525, ISBN: 978-1-60706-486-2), a 192-page full-color trade paperback, will be on sale in stores March 14th, 2012 for $15.99 and is available to order in the January 2012 edition of Previews. For more information, please visitwww.benaroyapublishing.com.

 

ABOUT DAVID BAXTER

David Baxter is a writer/producer whose first feature film, Shooting Lily, won the 1996 SXSW Film Festival. Dave is making his comic book debut with Benaroya Publishing and Image Comics on the title MARKSMEN. Dave is also the recipient of the 2004 Alfred P. Sloan Foundation/Tribeca Film Institute screenwriting grant for two science themed film projects he currently has in development. He previously wrote for Star Trek: Voyager and became a member of the WGA when he wrote an epic racing film called Nuvolari for 20th Century Fox. He recently completed Speed King, a biopic about murdered racing legend Mickey Thompson for Bandito Bros and Producer/Director Mike McCoy.

 

ABOUT JAVIER ARANDA

Javier Aranda is a Spanish artist who’s worked with publishers like DC Comics, Marvel, IDW, Devil’s Due Press, Avatar Press, and most recently Image Comics and Benaroya Publishing. He is best known for his work on Star Trek, World Of Dungeons & Dragons, Infinity, Inc., Hellina, and MARKSMEN. Javier has also published several short-stories and collaborated with other artists and writers on several Spanish market magazines, books, storyboards, and merchandising.

 

ABOUT GARRY LEACH

Garry Leach is a British artist known for his work on MARVELMAN with writer Alan Moore and as one of the founders of Atomeka Press with Dave Elliott. Garry is co-creator of Warpsmith and has worked on titles like Judge Dredd, THE V.C.s, Global Frequency with Warren Ellis, and has illustrated cards for the Magic: The Gathering collectible cards game.

 

ABOUT BENAROYA PUBLISHING

Founded by Michael Benaroya in 2009, Benaroya Publishing is a comic book and graphic novel production company dedicated to thrilling and compelling storytelling. A subsidiary of Benaroya Pictures, Benaroya Publishing is based in Los Angeles, California and launches their debut titles this Spring under the Image Comics label. With David Elliott (FALL OUT TOY WORKS and co-founder of RADICAL PUBLISHING) at the helm as in-house Editor-in-Chief, Benaroya Publishing promises to bring fresh new ideas, and uniquely told stories to the comics literary world. For more information, visit www.benaroyapublishing.com.

NAMCO BANDAI GAMES TO RELEASE ARMORED CORE® V

ON MARCH 20, 2012

The Fight for Humanity Comes to the U.S. This Spring

SAN JOSE, Calif., (January 12, 2012) NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced ARMORED CORE® V will be released on March 20, 2012 in North America and on March 23, 2012 in Europe for the Xbox 360^® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation^®3 computer entertainment system.  Developed by the acclaimed FromSoftware, Inc., ARMORED CORE V will bring the most intense and strategic mech battles yet to the veteran series.

The ARMORED CORE® franchise is renowned in the mech action genre for its intense battles and customization options. ARMORED CORE V revolutionizes the series with massive online multiplayer battles designed around huge team-based skirmishes on a grand scale, a robust offline mode, and a completely new atmosphere. Featuring mechs or “Armored Cores” that are customized for more strategic gameplay, ARMORED CORE V focuses on tactics and effectively utilizing the geography of a level to maximize the devastating effects of attacks. Players will be able to customize their Armored Core with countless unlockable parts creating their own personal weapons of mass destruction.

“Gamers have been eagerly anticipating the release of ARMORED CORE V, which will bring strategic mech combat to new heights,” said Eiichi Nakajima, studio head, FromSoftware, Inc.  “With cooperative missions, a persistent online world battling for territories and epic team battles, ARMORED CORE V is the complete action shooter package.”

The all new Operator Mode gives one player a leadership role by being able to supply his Armored Core teammates with enemy positions, movements and details.

“A quick trigger finger and razor-sharp reflexes won’t always turn the tide of battle in ARMORED CORE V,” said Carlson Choi, Vice President of Marketing, NAMCO BANDAI Games America.  “The Operator adds a new layer of strategy orchestrating his team of Armored Cores to victory by finding the enemy’s weaknesses.”

NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. also confirmed today that ARMORED CORE fans pre-ordering the title from GameStop® stores across North America, as well as GameStop.com, will gain exclusive access to the ‘HEAVY ASSAULT PACK’ while supplies last.  The pack will include additional weapons and parts that will help give players a competitive advantage on day one in the innovative and sophisticated online multiplayer battles of ARMORED CORE V.

ARMORED CORE V will be available throughout North America on March 20, 2012.  For more information on the game, as well as information on additional pre-order promotions, please visit: http://namcobandaigames.com/console/armored-core-5 and http://www.facebook.com/armoredcore.

About NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.
NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., part of NAMCO BANDAI Holdings Inc., is a leading global publisher and developer of interactive content — including all major video game consoles, iOS, mobile and online.  The company is known for creating and publishing many of the industry’s top video game franchises, including PAC-MAN®, Tekken®, SOULCALIBUR®, NARUTO™, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN™, Dragon Ball®, GALAGA®, RIDGE RACER® and ACE COMBAT®.  More information about the company and its products can be found at www.namcobandaigames.com or www.facebook.com/namco.

ARMORED CORE® V ©2012 NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. ©1997-2012 FromSoftware, Inc. All rights reserved

“PlayStation” is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox LIVE are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Press Release © 2012 NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.

The Calgary Expo is going intergalactic with Buck Rogers and Captain Apollo coming in for a landing this April!

(Calgary, Ab) Stars from two of the biggest franchises in science fiction are making their way to the Calgary Expo April 27-29, 2012.  Gil Gerard, best known as Buck Rogers from the futuristic adventure series Buck Rogers in the 25^th Century, will be joined by Richard Hatch, who portrayed Captain Apollo in the sci-fi hit series Battlestar Galactica.

“Gil and Richard represent two franchises that have captured the imagination of multiple generations,” states Event Director Kandrix Foong.  “Having them at our show is exciting for anyone who loves Science Fiction, both young and old.”

Richard Hatch, an experienced teacher and acting coach, will be conducting a workshop on April 27, 2012 about Learning the Secrets to Successful Acting, Improv and Role Playing.  Space is limited and tickets will
soon be available at www.calgaryexpo.com.

The Calgary Expois a non-profit organization that showcases the incredible talent of comic creators, artists, actors, voice actors, musicians, writers and pop culture icons from all over the world.  Founded in 2006, the convention has grown rapidly having hosted guests from every genre including William Shatner, Battlestar Galactica’s Michael Hogan and Kate Vernon, Star Wars’ Billy Dee Williams, Hellraiser’s Doug Bradley and Owly artist Andy Runton.  The 2011 convention saw 30,000 attendees and is the 2nd largest convention of its kind in all of Canada.

Guests for the 2012 Calgary Expo currently include Robert Englund (Nightmare on Elm Street), Amanda Tapping (Stargate: SG-1, Sanctuary), Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica, 24), James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Adam West (original Batman and Family Guy) and voice actor Tara Strong (My Little Pony: Friendship is magic and The Powerpuff Girls), Hayden Panettiere (Heroes, Scream 4), Adam Baldwin (Serenity, Firefly, Full Metal Jacket), John Noble (Fringe and The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King), Jasika Nicole (Fringe), Dave Prowse (Star Wars, A Clockwork Orange) and Tom Felton (Harry Potter 1-8).

The Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo will be held April 27 – 29, 2012 at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Advanced tickets are now on sale at www.calgaryexpo.com

For more information, visit our website at www.calgaryexpo.com

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES A SPECIAL LAUNCH EVENT FOR NEW WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA DIGITAL MANGA MAGAZINE IN WEST HOLLYWOOD

Free Event In Los Angeles Gives Fans A Sneak Peek Of Upcoming Debut Of North America’s First Digital Weekly Manga Anthology

San Francisco, CA, January 11, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, invites Southern California manga/anime fans and pop culture enthusiasts to a very special launch event for the new WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA (WEEKLY SJ ALPHA) on Saturday, January 28^th at the West Hollywood Library in Los Angeles, CA.

The event is FREE to attend and takes place between 2:00pm-5:00pm in the library’s Community Room. The West Hollywood Library is located at 625 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069. Additional library details are available at:

http://www.colapublib.org/libs/whollywood/index.php

Each new digital issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA will treat manga (comics) fans in North America to the latest chapters of some of the world’s most popular manga series only two weeks after they debut in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP magazine. The first issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA goes on sale January 30, 2012, and will be available through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga apps for iPhone^®, iPod^® touch and iPad^®. Debut series will include BAKUMAN｡, BLEACH, NARUTO, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE, and TORIKO.

During the event, attendees will be able to preview the first issue of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA content on several iPads that will be available, meet VIZ Media staff, and take advantage of fun photo opportunities with the world’s most popular ninja, Naruto, and BLEACH’s Kon.  Gift bags will be given away (while supplies last) and attendees can enter to win other fun prizes in a special raffle contest. Japanese snacks such as Pocky provided by Ezaki Glico USA and other refreshments will also be served while supplies last.

“This launch event for WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA will give fans an exclusive advance look at our new manga magazine while offering a fun afternoon to celebrate its debut,” says Alvin Lu, Senior Vice President & General Manager. “Our new digital anthology will set an important new benchmark by offering the latest editions of some of the world’s most successful manga titles just a couple of weeks after their Japanese debut. We invite fans to join us on Saturday January 28^th in West Hollywood for this exciting launch event!”

WEEKLY SJ ALPHA will be made available through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99. Single issues of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA can be read for four weeks for only $0.99. Each issue, once received on one device, can be read on all other enabled devices through the easy-to-use integrated VIZ Manga platform which includes the VIZ Manga Apps for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch as well as VIZManga.com.

To prepare fans for the debut of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA, VIZ Media is also offering the SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP, a limited collection of digital graphic novel speed-ups that will bring North American readers up-to-date with Japanese releases, in some cases jumping ahead of the print releases in North America. The SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP is ongoing on VIZ Manga with NARUTO Volume 55-57, BLEACH Volumes 49-52 and ONE PIECE Vols. 61-63 available now (print editions forthcoming).

For more information on WEEKLY SJ ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJAlpha.com or VIZManga.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.

O'NEIL, JAFFEE, SANDERSON, FINGEROTH in celebration and signing of THE STAN LEE UNIVERSE, Thurs, February 2nd at MoCCA - Only $7, FREE to MoCCA Members!

NEW YORK (January 11, 2012) - The Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art - MoCCA - is proud to announce a special MoCCA THURSDAYS event: A celebration and signing of THE STAN LEE UNIVERSE, Danny Fingeroth and Roy Thomas's new book about the co-creator of Spider-Man, The X-Men, Iron Man, and so many other iconic characters. The panel features Lee-colleagues (and contributors to the book) DENNIS O'NEIL, AL JAFFEE, PETER SANDERSON, and co-editor DANNY FINGEROTH. (And don't be surprised if a guest-star or two shows up as well!)

Copies of The Stan Lee Universe will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

[NOTE: Stan Lee will NOT be present.]

Event details:
Thursday February 2, 2012
7 PM-9 PM
Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art
594 Broadway, suite 401
New York, NY 10012
Admission: $7 / FREE for MoCCA Members

About the book:

THE STAN LEE UNIVERSE is a portrait of Lee's and Marvel's development as pop culture forces. It includes much material found in The STAN LEE ARCHIVES at the University of Wyoming, including transcripts of lost radio interviews and debates with Lee and figures such as Hilde Mosse (Fredric Wertham's partner in comics-hating) and Jack Kirby. Others whose voices are "heard" in this eclectic volume include:  Roger Ebert; Country Joe and the Fish; Will Eisner: Richard Corben; Neal Conan; and James Cameron. And script, pencil art, and detailed notes from both Lee and Kirby for their Silver Surfer Graphic Novel, and pages from a screenplay Lee wrote for director Alain Resnais are just some of the extraordinary items in this one-of-a-kind book.

Raves for THE STAN LEE UNIVERSE:

“What if you could dig through the attic of the guy who co-created Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk and dozens of others? The result might be [this] fine gift-book.
-Charlie Meyerson, FM News 101.1, Chicago

“There's something on every page that is soaked in awesome." -John Robinson, needcoffee.com

“No matter what you think you may know about [Lee], you'll learn a lot from The Stan Lee Universe and I recommend it most highly to anybody the least bit interested in comics or our American heritage.” -Mike Gold, comicmix.com


About the panelists (all of whom contributed to the content of the book):

DENNIS O'NEIL, one of comics' most acclaimed writers, brought social consciousness to the medium with the groundbreaking Green Lantern/Green Arrow series. His work on Batman-as writer and editor-returned that character to its dark, gothic roots. Denny worked closely with Stan in the '60s and speaks in The Stan Lee Universe about learning from Lee in those early years of Marvel's development.

AL JAFFEE was an editor, writer, and artist for Stan at Timely (later Marvel) Comics during the '40s and '50s. In 1955, Jaffee joined Mad, entertaining generations with his “Mad Fold-Ins” and “Snappy Answers to Stupid Questions.” In The Stan Lee Universe, Al talks about what it was like to work with Stan. The book also showcases hilarious Lee-Jaffee memorabilia from Stan's archives.

PETER SANDERSON is a comics guru, penning books, journal articles, and criticism, and producing documentaries on comics. Peter was Marvel's first archivist and was main writer of The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe. In an article in The Stan Lee Universe, Peter astutely analyzes Stan's writing style.

DANNY FINGEROTH, co-editor (with Roy Thomas) of The Stan Lee Universe, is MoCCA's Sr VP of Education. He was a longtime editor and writer at Marvel, where he often worked with Stan. Danny went to Lee's Wyoming archives, where he found much of the rare material that appears in the book. He is the author of Superman on the Couch: What Superheroes Really Tell us About Ourselves and Society and Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero. 

For more information, call 212-254-3511 or go to www.moccany.org.

The Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art - MoCCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts education organization dedicated to the preservation, study and display of all forms of comic and cartoon art.  The museum promotes greater understanding and appreciation of the artistic, cultural and historical significance of comic and cartoon art through a variety of events, exhibitions, and educational programs.   The museum is located at 594 Broadway (between Houston and Prince Streets) in New York City.  MoCCA is open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays from 12:00-5:00 pm.  Suggested donation to the museum is $5 but free for MoCCA Members as well as for children 12 and under (when accompanied by a paying adult).  For more information about the museum and MoCCA events, exhibitions and programs, contact MoCCA President and Chairman Ellen S. Abramowitz at eabramowitz@moccany.org.

WHAT:        
MoCCA Thursday: THE STAN LEE UNIVERSE signing and celebration

WHEN:            
Thursday February 2, 2012, 7-9 pm

WHERE:              
Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art
594 Broadway, suite 401
New York, NY 10012

COST:          
$7 / MoCCA Members FREE

WEBSITE:        
www.moccany.org

Baltimore Comic-Con Rolls Into Philly with JG Jones

 

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - January 12, 2012 - Baltimore Comic-Con promoter Marc Nathan is hitting the road in 2012, bringing a little bit of the Baltimore Comic-Con to you!  The first show of 2012 will be the Philadelphia Comic-Con this Sunday, January 15th, and he'll be bringing along his pal, JG Jones.  Stop by to meet JG, talk to Marc about the show, and buy some comics while you're there!  Marc will also have Exhibitor and Artist Alley forms for this years convention on September 8th and 9th.   

Information about the Philadelphia Comic-Con can be found on their website, http://www.philadelphiacomic-con.com/.  It will be held at the Ramada Philadelphia Airport, 76 Industrial Highway, Essington, PA 19029 from 10am to 4pm.  Be sure to stop by!

 

Guest List

The 2012 Baltimore Comic-Con will feature the following announced guests:

 

Laura & Michael Allred - Madman, iZombie

Greg Capullo - Batman, Spawn

Frank Cho - Avengers vs. X-Men, Liberty Meadows

Steve Conley - Bloop

Rich Faber - Roboy Red

John Gallagher - Buzzboy

Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez - Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman

Keith Giffen - Superman, OMAC, Green Arrow

Larry Hama - G.I. Joe, Wolverine, The 'Nam

Dean Haspiel - Billy Dogma, ACT-I-VATE, Trip City

J.G. Jones - Wanted, Doc Savage

Scott Kurtz - PvPonline.com

David Mack - Kabuki

David Petersen - Mouse Guard

Frank Quitely - All Star Superman, Batman & Robin

Walter Simonson - Thor, Legion of Super-Heroes, Avengers

Scott Snyder - Batman , Severed, Swamp Thing

Billy Tucci - A Child Is Born, Shi

Matt Wagner - Tower Chronicles, Mage, Grendel

Mark Waid - Daredevil, Incorruptible, Irredemable

 

...With more on the way!  Stay tuned to our website or use the "Sign up" link at the bottom of our website to receive update announcements as we make them!

 

About The Baltimore Comic-Con

The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 13th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held September 8-9, 2012. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 7 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.