SPRING ROMANCE AND PASSIONS BLOOM AS SuBLime EXHIBITS AT FANIME AND ANNOUNCES A

LIMITED-TIME SALE ON ALL YAOI MANGA TITLES

Catch Special Digital Discounts On More Than 80 Acclaimed

Fan-Favorite Series And Single Volume Editions From

Premier Yaoi Manga Publisher SuBLime

San Francisco, CA, May 23, 2013 – SuBLime, the global yaoi manga publishing initiative between VIZ Media and Japan’s Animate, Ltd. (Animate), announces that it will be exhibiting at this weekend’s 2014 Fanime Convention, the largest anime convention and fan gathering in Northern California.

The 2014 Fanime Convention takes place May 23^rd – 26^th at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in San Jose, CA. Complete details on Fanime are available http://www.fanime.com.

SuBLime will demo and sell its extensive library of acclaimed print yaoi manga (graphic novel) titles throughout the convention. The SuBLime booth will be located in Booth #1201. Yaoi fans are invited to stop by the booth to sample popular manga titles such as AWKWARD SILENCE, HIDE AND SEEK, CRIMSON SPELL and many more that are available in print and digitally from the SuBLime imprint. Fans can also sign up for the SuBLime newsletter and enter to win a Grand Prize package featuring digital and print editions of AWKWARD SILENCE – please visit SuBLime booth 1201 for more details!

As a special Spring treat for fans and readers, SuBLime will be celebrating with a sale offering $1.00 off ALL digital manga (graphic novel) titles currently featured on SuBLimeManga.com. The sale kicks off today and runs for a limited time only through Friday, May 30^th.

Fans can take advantage of this weeklong discount on more than 80 acclaimed yaoi titles regularly priced between $1.99 and $7.99 (USD) that are available digitally in a flexible download-to-own format from the SuBLime web site. Selections are viewable as a PDF on any enabled eReader device or computer and can also be accessed via the online manga viewer found on the web site.

In addition, all SuBLime print volumes will be on sale at retailer Right Stuf through May 29^th. Readers can save at least 33% off all SuBLime titles, regularly priced at $12.99 and $16.99 (USD) – please visit RightStuf.com to view the full title list!

Explore a wide range of some top BL series and single-volume releases such as AWKWARD SILENCE, DEVIL’S HONEY, LOVE PISTOLS, OKU-SAN’S DAILY FANTASIES, THE SCENT OF APPLE BLOSSOMS, and scores more by some of the most celebrated creators in the yaoi genre. A complete roster of current manga titles is available at: http://www.sublimemanga.com/titles.

For up-to-date news and release information, please visit the SuBLime website at www.SuBLimeManga.com, or follow SuBLime on Twitter at @SuBLimeManga and Facebook at facebook.com/SuBLimeManga.

About SuBLime

SuBLime is a global yaoi/boys’ love manga publisher, and is a partnership between VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, and Japan’s Animate, Ltd. (Animate). This bold, global publishing initiative will present English-speaking fans everywhere with a broad selection of high quality titles. SuBLime will offer titles digitally worldwide available at www.SuBLimeManga.com, with many available in Download-to-Own format, and selections in print also available in English-language editions worldwide.

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AWKWARD SILENCE © 2006 Hinako Takanaga

 OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD MANHATTAN PROJECTS ARTWORK AND SKETCH VARIANT REVEALED
Issue #21 will boast a chic sketch variant cover—
just in time for convention season

Fans of Jonathan Hickman and Nick Pitarra’s THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS already know just how over-the-top and wild things can get in the off-kilter series. Now, just in time for convention season, fans can add a custom touch to the shenanigans of THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS with issue #21's sketch variant.

Ever wonder what happened to our deep space explorer for the Mars Project? Find out now in THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS #21 when the Cosmohundin Laika boldly goes where no Russian dog has gone before.

THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS #21 will be available in stores on June 18 and can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code APR140574. The sketch variant cover will be available for pre-order with Diamond Code MAR148190. 

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, fantasy, 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.

'LUMBERJANES' #1 SELLS OUT TO THE MAX, GETS A SECOND PRINTING

LUMBERJANES #1 2nd Print Cover by Chrystin Garland
 

May 22,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is pleased as punch to announce that LUMBERJANES #1 has sold out at the distributor level, and the publisher has rushed to a second printing faster than a three-eyed fox can run. Written by Noelle Stevenson (ADVENTURE TIME, Nimona) and Grace Ellis, co-created by BOOM! Studios editor Shannon Watters, with art from Brooke Allen (A Home for Mr. Easter), LUMBERJANES is a quirky series about five girls kicking butt at summer camp that has recently been made into an ongoing series due to the overwhelming response from fans.

Comic book fans should bear in mind that first printings of LUMBERJANES #1 may still be found at the local comic shop nearest you. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one!

“Rushing to a second print on LUMBERJANES was the easiest decision we’ve made since...publishing LUMBERJANES,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “Now that the series is ongoing it’s even more important to us to make sure the first issue is widely available for retailers and fans.”

Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are five best pals determined to have an awesome summer together...and they’re not gonna let any insane quest or an array of supernatural critters get in their way! Not only is it the second title launching in our new BOOM! Box imprint, but LUMBERJANES is one of those punk rock, love-everything-about-it stories that appeals to fans of basically all excellent things.

Praise for LUMBERJANES:

“Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, and Brooke Allen's LUMBERJANES could be your new favorite series—or your daughter's, or your dad's, or your little cousin's. It's an utterly loveable example of how well all-ages comics can work when they shoot for the moon instead of aiming for the lowest common denominator.” - Comic Book Resources

"On a pure entertainment level, LUMBERJANES #2 is one of BOOM!’s best. ...It is hard to write about or read this  comic without cracking a smile." - Sound on Sight

“LUMBERJANES is a comic that'll surprise you. It's bizarre, over the top and extremely silly. That might sound like damning praise, but if you're fan of stuff like Adventure Time or Gravity Falls, you'll love the tone and look of this book.” - IGN

“LUMBERJANES is just plain enjoyable; it's a delightful read with great energy, and it's one of the books I look forward to most because it's just so fun. Seriously. Pick up a copy, perk up your Wednesday.” - Comic Vine

“LUMBERJANES #2 is a real treat and acts as a convincing argument in favor of this new series. The book accomplishes exactly what it sets out to and manages to produce a number of laughs along the way.” - All-Comic

“Honestly, this title has the potential to be a new favorite cult hit. ...Stevenson, Ellis, Allen, and [colorist] Laiho definitely deserve their merit badge for having me want more from this series.“ - Newsarama

LUMBERJANES #1 second print ships with a new cover by Chrystin Garland (ADVENTURE TIME) and carries a retail price of $3.99 with a Diamond Code of APR148175. It is anticipated to be in stores on June 11th. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one!

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

MANHATTAN HAS A NEW PROTECTOR IN 'THOMAS ALSOP'

THOMAS ALSOP #1 Cover by A Palle Schmidt


THOMAS ALSOP #1 Cover B by Dean Haspiel
 

May 23,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - What would you do if you had the magical ability and responsibility to protect the island of Manhattan from supernatural forces of evil? Well, if you’re Thomas Alsop, you get a reality television show and make some money off of it, that’s what! This June, BOOM! Studios is pleased to announce the debut of THOMAS ALSOP, a new limited series from writer Chris Miskiewicz and artist Palle Schmidt, featuring a thoroughly modern warlock who fights demons as the current “Hand of the Island,” a title that’s been passed down through generations of occult warriors. Fans of John Constantine and Dr. Strange will love this new take on the magic-wielding hero who battles demons on the streets… and in his own mind.

“Thomas Alsop is kind of a dicey guy,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “He’s a lovable rogue with the weight of his family—his family tree even—on his shoulders. Chris and Palle have created a complex character and a frenetic world that’s bursting with magic, history, mayhem, shenanigans, familial burdens, personal demons, real demons, boozy nights, and a deeply rooted mythology that it’s all grounded in. This series is crackling with the energy of new creators unleashing their talents; I can’t wait for readers to meet Chris, Palle...and THOMAS ALSOP. ”

THOMAS ALSOP #1 arrives in comic shops on June 18th with a cover price of $3.99 under Diamond order code APR140970. The issue ships with a main cover by Palle Schmidt and an incentive cover available in a limited quantity from Dean Haspiel (The Fox). Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one! It’s also available for order directly from boom-studios.com.

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

Comic Book Legend Stan Lee To Attend Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con On Sunday, June 1

Iconic Creator, Personality Joins Celebrities, Superstar Artists At Georgia World Congress Center

ATLANTA, May 23, 2014 – Stan Lee, the legendary comic book writer, editor, actor, producer, publisher, and current Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of POW! Entertainment, today announced that he will make a special appearance at Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con on Sunday, June 1 ONLY at the Georgia World Congress Center. Lee, a member of both the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame and the Jack Kirby Hall of Fame, will meet fans, sign autographs and pose for photographs. Special VIP packages are available.

Lee joins such notables attending as Karen Gillan (“Doctor Who,” Guardians of the Galaxy), Norman Reedus and Michael Rooker of “The Walking Dead,” James Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Torchwood”), Milo Ventimiglia (“Heroes,” Rocky Balboa), WWE® Superstar Big Show®, Darryl McDaniels “D.M.C.” (“Run-D.M.C.”) Jason David Frank (“Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers”), and Robert Knepper (“Prison Break,” Hitman). Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con is the seventh of 16 events currently scheduled in the 2014 series produced by Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) and will also feature a top-drawer collection of well-known comics artists and writers and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions.

Other superstar comics creators scheduled to attend include Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Jorge Molina (“X-Men,” “Fear Itself”), Jerry Ordway (“Action Comics,” “Avengers”), Ron Garney (“Thor,” “Uncanny X-Force”), Alberto Ponticelli (“Justice League,” “Green Lantern”), Bob Layton (“Iron Man,” “Captain America”), Ethan Van Sciver (“Green Lantern,” “Flash”), John Tyler Christopher (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Secret Warriors”), J.M. DeMatteis (“Justice League Dark,” “Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger”) and many others.

In addition, all Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con VIP attendees will receive an exclusive variant cover of Marvel's “Amazing Spider-Man #1,” drawn by Christopher (and co-created by Lee), at registration.

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con show hours are Friday, May 30, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place all three days at the event, with celebrity Q&A's, the Wizard World Film Festival, comics-themed sessions, costume contest, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Sunday, June 1, is also Kids Day, with an array of activities and programming specially designed for the younger Wizard World fans.

Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor, often stopping by the Show Stage, the ideal place to see and be seen.

For more on the 2014 Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con, visit www.wizardworld.com/home-atlanta.html.

About Wizard World:

Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD) produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Wizard World 2014 Schedule
January 24-26 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
February 7-9 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
March 7-9 – Wizard World Sacramento Comic Con
March 28-30 – Wizard World Louisville Comic Con
April 4-6 – Wizard World St. Louis Comic Con
May 2-4 – Wizard World Minneapolis Comic Con
May 30-June 1 – Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con
June 19-22 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 1-3 – Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con
August 21-24 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 12-14 – Wizard World Richmond Comic Con
September 26-28 – Wizard World Nashville Comic Con
October 2-4 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
October 31-November 2 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
November 7-9 – Wizard World Tulsa Comic Con
November 21-23 – Wizard World Reno Comic Con

Comic Book Legend Stan Lee To Attend Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con On Sunday, June 1

Iconic Creator, Personality Joins Celebrities, Superstar Artists At Georgia World Congress Center

ATLANTA, May 23, 2014 – Stan Lee, the legendary comic book writer, editor, actor, producer, publisher, and current Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of POW! Entertainment, today announced that he will make a special appearance at Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con on Sunday, June 1 ONLY at the Georgia World Congress Center. Lee, a member of both the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame and the Jack Kirby Hall of Fame, will meet fans, sign autographs and pose for photographs. Special VIP packages are available.

Lee joins such notables attending as Karen Gillan (“Doctor Who,” Guardians of the Galaxy), Norman Reedus and Michael Rooker of “The Walking Dead,” James Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Torchwood”), Milo Ventimiglia (“Heroes,” Rocky Balboa), WWE® Superstar Big Show®, Darryl McDaniels “D.M.C.” (“Run-D.M.C.”) Jason David Frank (“Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers”), and Robert Knepper (“Prison Break,” Hitman). Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con is the seventh of 16 events currently scheduled in the 2014 series produced by Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) and will also feature a top-drawer collection of well-known comics artists and writers and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions.

Other superstar comics creators scheduled to attend include Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), Jorge Molina (“X-Men,” “Fear Itself”), Jerry Ordway (“Action Comics,” “Avengers”), Ron Garney (“Thor,” “Uncanny X-Force”), Alberto Ponticelli (“Justice League,” “Green Lantern”), Bob Layton (“Iron Man,” “Captain America”), Ethan Van Sciver (“Green Lantern,” “Flash”), John Tyler Christopher (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Secret Warriors”), J.M. DeMatteis (“Justice League Dark,” “Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger”) and many others.

In addition, all Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con VIP attendees will receive an exclusive variant cover of Marvel's “Amazing Spider-Man #1,” drawn by Christopher (and co-created by Lee), at registration.

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con show hours are Friday, May 30, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place all three days at the event, with celebrity Q&A's, the Wizard World Film Festival, comics-themed sessions, costume contest, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Sunday, June 1, is also Kids Day, with an array of activities and programming specially designed for the younger Wizard World fans.

Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor, often stopping by the Show Stage, the ideal place to see and be seen.

For more on the 2014 Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con, visit www.wizardworld.com/home-atlanta.html.

About Wizard World:

Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD) produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Wizard World 2014 Schedule
January 24-26 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
February 7-9 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
March 7-9 – Wizard World Sacramento Comic Con
March 28-30 – Wizard World Louisville Comic Con
April 4-6 – Wizard World St. Louis Comic Con
May 2-4 – Wizard World Minneapolis Comic Con
May 30-June 1 – Wizard World Atlanta Comic Con
June 19-22 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 1-3 – Wizard World San Antonio Comic Con
August 21-24 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 12-14 – Wizard World Richmond Comic Con
September 26-28 – Wizard World Nashville Comic Con
October 2-4 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
October 31-November 2 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
November 7-9 – Wizard World Tulsa Comic Con
November 21-23 – Wizard World Reno Comic Con

GOT SAGA? LYING.
Another sellout as multiple award-winning bestseller returns

Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples’ multiple Eisner and Hugo award-winning New York Times bestseller SAGA returned with the beginning of its fourth arc this week and has instantly sold out at the distribution level. To meet demand, Image Comics is sending SAGA #19 back to press for a one-time-only second printing.

“One of the greatest things about working with talent as inventive as Brian and Fiona is that Saga is never short on surprises,” said Eric Stephenson, Publisher at Image Comics. “If it’s not the story itself, it’s the velocity this book sells at, and even after establishing itself as a sales juggernaut over the last 18 issues, Saga has once again exceeded our expectations. We went big on the overprint with this issue and still came up short. I’m stunned.”

The breakout series that has captivated critics and fans across the board and garnered much mainstream acclaim from coast to coast continues the story of star-crossed couple Alana and Marko, their young daughter Hazel, and the warring interplanetary forces that threaten their survival.

"Man, this is the best. I can't tell you how much Fiona and I appreciate the support readers and retailers have given our book," said Vaughan. "We'd hoped that taking a short break after each arc to let new readers get caught up on trades before picking up the monthly issues would help us gradually expand our audience, but we never dreamed our scheme would be this successful, so thanks again. Not to be greedy, but Robert Kirkman has vowed that if Saga ever outsells Walking Dead, he'll let me shave his beard and weave the clippings into my own personal hairpiece, so can we please make that happen?"

Staples added: "We're so grateful to all the readers who share Saga with their husbands, wives, friends, roommates, grandparents, and nieces and nephews of appropriate age. It's stunning to see that the word is still spreading. Massive thanks to retailers for getting the book into everyone's hands."

In this eagerly anticipated new issue the couple embark on new adventures—but not without adding a few more enemies on their trail.

Praise for SAGA:

“Mischievous, vulgar and gloriously inventive.” —TIME Magazine

“May it run for 1,000 issues.” —Rolling Stone Magazine

“A little bit Romeo & Juliet and a lot Star Wars.” —USA Today

“Staples and Vaughan, like L. Frank Baum or J.R.R. Tolkien, have brought to life a fantasy world so fully realized that nothing, no matter how incredible, seems out of place for a second.” —Library Journal

“Vaughan’s whip-snap dialogue is as smart, cutting, and well timed as ever, and his characters are both familiar enough to acclimate easily to and deep enough to stay interested in as their relationships bend, break, and mend.” —Booklist

“A beautiful, passionate, adventurous book.” —Tor.com

SAGA #19 has completely sold out at the distributor level, but may still be available in comic stores. It is currently available digitally on the Image Comics website (imagecomics.com) and the official Image Comics iOS app, as well as on Comixology on the web (comixology.com), iOS, Android, and Google Play.

“Selling out is always kind of bittersweet, especially on a title as popular as Saga,” added Stephenson. “We want this book to be as widely available as possible, for as long as possible, but even with the third volume of the trade paperback outpacing the first two in sales and multiple Eisner nominations for the second year in a row, it’s clear we’re not getting as many copies to our retailer partners as they can sell.

“This book is a living, breathing phenomenon—its sales trajectory far surpasses that of The Walking Dead at the same point in its publishing history—and we are constantly looking for new ways to grow what is shaping up to be one of most wonderful and enthusiastic fan communities we’ve ever encountered. Given how much work Brian and Fiona are putting into making this one of the greatest series of all time and how easy it is to sell new readers on this incredible story, there’s really no reason Saga shouldn’t be every retailer’s highest ordered series.”

Image Comics is sending SAGA #19 back to press to satisfy customer demand, and this one-time-only second printing (Diamond Code APR148258) will be available on 6/25, the same day as SAGA #20.

SAGA #20 is available now for pre-order with APR140593. 

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, fantasy, 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.

WE tv GREENLIGHTS ORIGINAL SCRIPTED DRAMA SERIES “SOUTH OF HELL”

ELI ROTH TO DIRECT PREMIERE EPISODE

NEW YORK, NY – May 22, 2014 – WE tv today announced that it has greenlit the scripted thriller, “South of Hell,” from Sonar Entertainment and Blumhouse Television.  “South of Hell” is a gripping supernatural thriller set in Savannah, GA and focused on Maria Abascal, a demon hunter whose power stems from within.  The premiere episode will be directed by Eli Roth (“Hostel,” “Hemlock Grove,” “The Green Inferno”).  WE tv has ordered eight, 60-minute episodes of “South of Hell,” and plans a 2015 premiere.

“As WE tv moves firmly into scripted programming, we are committed to presenting distinctive and engaging stories to today’s savvy TV audience,” said Marc Juris, WE tv’s president.  “That is certainly the case with ‘South of Hell,’ a dramatic thriller that introduces viewers to an unforgettable character, supernatural themes and the battle between good and evil.”

“‘South of Hell’ is a cornerstone production for Sonar that reflects our overall commitment to the ongoing development of quality series television,” said Sonar Entertainment CEO Gene Stein.  “We are thrilled to collaborate with WE tv and the stellar creative team attached to the project to bring this compelling story to life.”

The premiere episode was written by Matt Lambert.  James Manos, Jr. (“Dexter,” “The Shield,” “The Sopranos”) is executive producer and showrunner.  Jason Blum of Blumhouse Productions (“Paranormal Activity,” “Insidious,” “Sinister”) also serves as executive producer, along with Gerard Bocaccio, Stewart Till, Stein, and Roth.

Savannah, Georgia is an elusive city with many faces and the perfect home for Maria Abascal, a stunning, 30-year-old demon-hunter-for-hire.  Alongside her brother, David, she is skilled and fearless in her pursuit of the demons that live in others.  Like those that she hunts, Maria is divided within herself, struggling with her own demon, Abigail, who resides inside of her, feeding on the evil Maria exorcises from others.  Maria and Abigail share a soul and a destiny, but as Maria desperately tries to overtake Abigail, she will discover how far Abigail will go to remain a part of her.

“We can’t wait to work with WE tv to introduce audiences to this series led by an extremely talented creative team including James, Matt and Eli, whose vision we share in delivering thrilling entertainment,” said Jason Blum, CEO and Founder, Blumhouse Productions.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of ‘South of Hell,’” said Roth.  “Exorcism and possession stories have always fascinated me, and Matt Lambert has created an incredibly rich, original world in which to tell many stories of good, evil and everyone’s own personal inner demons.  I’m also honored to be working with Jim and Jason, both of whom I greatly admire.  We want to create something smart and spectacular, and we are excited to be at the forefront of WE tv’s new scripted series initiative.”

WE tv’s “The Divide,” a scripted crime drama, will debut Wednesday, July 16 at 9 pm ET/PT with a special two-hour premiere.  “The Divide” is a thought-provoking and suspenseful drama that explores the personal cost of morality, ambition, ethics, politics, and race in today's justice system through the eyes of Christine Rosa played by Marin Ireland (“Homeland,” “Boss,” “Side Effects”), an impassioned caseworker with The Innocence Initiative, and Adam Page played by Damon Gupton (“The Newsroom,” “Prime Suspect”), an equally passionate district attorney and political rising star.

About WE tv

WE tv (www.wetv.com) showcases and celebrates modern women who are bold, independent and taking control of their lives. Whether they are celebrities like Joan Rivers or Toni Braxton, or everyday women, their stories are as relatable as they are entertaining.  WE tv’s popular slate of fresh and modern unscripted original series includes the hit shows Braxton Family Values, Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best? and Mary Mary, among others.  WE tv will debut its first scripted series, The Divide, in July. Audiences connect to WE tv online, on demand and via social media.  WE tv is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc. and is available in over 85 million homes on every major cable, satellite and telco provider.

THE WORLD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL MODERN SUPERHERO BLOWS MINDS, SELLS OUT
THE WALKING DEAD's Robert Kirkman takes over INVINCIBLE to stunning effect

In a genre full of lackluster events and temporary deaths, Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley's INVINCIBLE is a superhero comic where change is genuine, not just a stunt. The one hundred and eleventh issue of the hit series delivered plenty of heart-stopping action and plot twists, including the departure of a major character and challenges unlike any Mark Grayson has faced thus far, challenges that will have a drastic effect on the future of Invincible's career as a superhero. The events of the issue sent readers into a frenzy and sparked an immediate sell-out, but Image Comics has announced INVINCIBLE #111 will be rushed to a one-time second printing to meet customer demand.

First launched in 2003, INVINCIBLE is the longest-running and most successful modern superhero comic in publication, consistently delivering real thrills that simply can't be matched by other titles. INVINCIBLE #111 is the opening shot of a new era, as announced at Image Expo: though he writes both titles, Robert Kirkman has traditionally treated INVINCIBLE and THE WALKING DEAD differently. Now, THE WALKING DEAD's Robert Kirkman is behind the wheel of INVINCIBLE, and the difference has already struck a chord with fans and retailers.

“For anyone who has read comics as long as I have, you know there’s not a lot of real change in the average superhero comic,” said Eric Stephenson, Publisher at Image Comics. “Characters are killed off as huge publicity stunts, only to return issues later; supposedly major changes are swept under the carpet from one event to the next, and worse, since there’s never any stability in terms of creative teams, directions often change abruptly and leave readers with a myriad of unanswered questions. The vast majority of superhero comics are only concerned with creating the illusion of change, but over the course of its 11-year run, Invincible has given readers change they can believe in, again and again. Characters change and grow; they die—and Invincible #111 is one of the best examples yet of how uncompromising Robert Kirkman can be when it comes to shaking things up. This is superhero action you can’t get anywhere else.”

Despite its consistency and creativity, INVINCIBLE remains under-ordered within the Direct Market. INVINCIBLE #111's bold new direction provides a perfect opportunity for new readers to discover the series and for current fans to double down on their enthusiasm.

INVINCIBLE #111 has completely sold out at the distributor level, but may still be available in comic stores. It is currently available digitally on the Image Comics website (imagecomics.com) and the official Image Comics iOS app, as well as on Comixology on the web (comixology.com), iOS, Android, and Google Play.

“One of the biggest challenges for us on the publishing level is to figure out not only how to grow sales on long-running titles, but also how to meet demand when something we think is going to do well actually exceeds our expectations,” added Stephenson. “Generally speaking, we rely on the order information we get from our retail partners, and pad our inventory accordingly, but presently, one of our most pressing goals is to figure out how we can do more to help them increase those initial orders with confidence, so that none of us are getting caught by surprise.

“And we get it: Titles as consistently amazing as Invincible are easy to overlook at times, because you get into the habit of just expecting it to be a solid seller, but everyone involved in this series is committed to taking it to the next level. We told you back in January that THE WALKING DEAD’s Robert Kirkman was taking over, and it wasn’t just a joke. Robert was by no means slacking on this book before, but he’s approaching it with the same brutal mindset as THE WALKING DEAD now and he clearly means business.”

Image Comics is sending INVINCIBLE #111 back to press to meet customer demand, and this one-time-only second printing (Diamond Code APR148250) will be available on 6/18.

INVINCIBLE #112 hits shelves the following week, on 6/25, and will be available for pre-order with Diamond Code MAR140578. This will be the only printing of this issue.

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, fantasy, 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.

ABOUT SKYBOUND

Skybound is the home of Robert Kirkman's creator-owned work including his Eisner Award-winning comic book series, The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, all-ages Super Dinosaur, Thief of Thieves, and Clone as well as Ghosted, Witch Doctor and Invincible Universe. Since its inception, Skybound has created television shows, merchandise and a wide spectrum of platforms, games (The Walking Dead: Assault iOS app), and entertainment events (The Walking Dead Escape). Skybound's successes include the comic behind the hit Emmy®-winning television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 122 countries and 37 languages. Skybound/Kirkman frequently top the hardcover and paperback bestseller lists. Your destinations for all news and merchandise from Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles are www.Skybound.com and www.TheWalkingDead.com