Friday, June 13, 2014

THERE IS NO ESCAPING THE SPREAD
Early artwork reveals The Spread epidemic has begun, retailers must submit their orders before they too are infected
Image Comics has received numerous reports from retailers fearful of The Spread, a poisonous organism that was first unleashed by Justin Jordan (DEAD BODY ROAD, Luther Strode) and Kyle Strahm (HACK/SLASH, HAUNT) in April when they announced their new science-fiction thriller, SPREAD. Soon thereafter #ItsSpreading went viral on various social media networks and the horrifying realization that the new series was upon us all manifested in feedback from various comic book stores afflicted by the unstoppable deadly red growth.

At the time of this press release, Jordan and Strahm could not be reached to comment on their role in this epidemic, as both are allegedly seeking refuge in a quarantined bunker where they work on issue #2 in a race against the clock.

Retailers however, were forthright in sharing their stories of SPREAD-related terror.

Jon Engel of New Dimension Comics in Pennsylvania was the first to come forward and was the canary in the coal mine for many of his fellow retailers. "Oh my God, while showing someone our new comic wall we kept noticing a space in the 'S' section," Engel said of the first sign something was amiss in the store. "We would fill it, then it would reappear! Finally out of the corner of my eye I saw these crazy red tentacles making the space! I was so freaked out I went and put in my order for Spread #1! Maybe if I fill it, it will stop."

"The Spread is in everyone's saver,” admitted Trina Latrine of World’s Best Comics, Cartoons & Toys in California. “There are red tentacles in everyone's saver and I'm not sure what to do, I haven't been able to get in there for weeks. My customers can't wait for The Spread to come out… literally."

Steve Anderson of Third Eye Comics in Maryland cautions the public on cross-contamination. "The excitement has been SPREADING from our staff to our customers,” said Anderson. “And with hungry tendrils all around, I knew that the only cure would be to order lots and lots of Spread #1 to keep the infection at bay."

One Lauren Becker of Warp 9 Comics & Collectibles in Michigan recounted her experience with The Spread with particular urgency. "I started hearing rumors about The Spread. I didn't think anything of it, but then the rumors started, bringing along fear and panic. Customers came in—‘where is The Spread’ they shrieked in terror. ‘It's not here yet,’ I responded, ‘but soon… and may God have mercy upon your soul.’”

For some stores, it was much worse: "Lena handed me the sheet to restock our back issue bins,” Steve Olsen, of Little Shop of Comics in New Jersey explained. “I proceeded down the steps to our store’s basement, flicked on the lights, and at that moment I heard something out of the ordinary. I cautiously proceeded to the back of the basement and noticed some residue on the floor. As I knelt down to get a feel for it, I noticed a red tip that started growing. As it got closer to me I realized The Spread was here! Its long, ugly tentacle chased me until I was back upstairs and I told Lena: ‘We need to order more of Spread #1!’”

"Spread is infecting MaximuM Comics' new release walls throughout Las Vegas—and making its diseased way into Pull Boxes everywhere!” said Jay Bosworth of MaximuM Comics in Nevada, in between gasps for air. “The vile sickness that is The Spread will grab hold of you, shatter your senses and leave you dying for more. The only cure? Make sure you order enough for your walls, too!!"

Ryan Boyle at Coliseum of Comics in Florida cleared off a space on the store’s shelves for SPREAD after experiencing a terrifying confrontation with The Spread that he chose not to elaborate on further. He said only, “After The Spread made its presence known, the terrifying red entity’s existence alone was reason enough for us to order up while we still had the chance.” For those in search of sanctuary he added, “Our stores stand ready to harbour any victims or people looking for refuge from The Spread, from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. on most weekdays.”

SPREAD #1 will overtake all stores nationwide on 7/9. It can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code: MAY140579. Final Order Cutoff for retailers is 6/16. For those still unconvinced of the gravity of the situation, see the below artwork.
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.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

SHUTTER FOCUSES ON BREATHTAKING FANTASY ADVENTURE
Kate Kristopher’s otherworldly adventure continues as early artwork for the fourth issue is revealed
The adventure continues in the urban fantasy series SHUTTER, written by Joe Keatinge (GLORY, TECH JACKET) and drawn by Leila del Duca, as Kate Kristopher takes on all manner of paranormal entities and monstrous obstacles in issue #4. Now Kate has left the life she built to confront the life she left behind.

“Hey ladies and gents! As usual, Joe threw some really wonderful concepts and challenges at me this issue,” said del Duca. “Highlights being the first three pages done in a more illustrative style and layout telling the origin story of Harrington the butler. I also dig drawing the Colonel, a super old lady and war hero who dresses fashionably, who helped raise Kate. However, my favorite scene by far is the one where Mikey the platypus chokes out Shaw. I mean… there are no words to describe how delightfully ridiculous and exciting it was to draw these characters in a dark alleyway, hoping to get out of a hit job and then BAM. Yup. Anyways, I hope you enjoy the preview!"

Keatinge added: "First and foremost, holy moley—we gotta thank every single person supporting Shutter for supporting Shutter! From our enthusiastic initial orders on each issue, to the stunning sell through and avalanche of great feedback—Leila, Owen, Ed and I appreciate every bit of pure enthusiasm every reader drives us with and all the hard work our retail partners put into making sure the books get into their hands.”

SHUTTER #4 will hit stores on 7/9. It can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code: MAY140729. Final Order Cutoff for retailers is 6/16.
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.

MONTCLARE’S AND REEDER’S ROCKET GIRL JETS TO THE PAST

Time-traveling graphic novel in stores in July

DaYoung Johannson is the eponymous ROCKET GIRL in the new Image Comics graphic novel by Brandon Montclare (HALLOWEEN EVE) and Amy Reeder (HALLOWEEN EVE, Madame Xanadu, Batwoman). She’s a teenage time cop from the jet-pack-packing, flying-car-driving future that science fiction fans dream of, and she’s burst back in time to 1986 to stop Quintim Mechanics from committing a crime against time. The only problem is that once she’s there, Dayoung realizes that her 2013 isn’t even supposed to exist!
With snappy dialogue, endearing characters, and eye-popping art, ROCKET GIRL VOLUME 1: TIMES SQUARED whizzes between two time periods in New York City — gritty, corrupt, big-haired 1986 and shiny, (seemingly) utopian 2013, as DaYoung unravels secrets she didn’t even know she was keeping and faces what it means to grow up when you might not have a future.
“Throughout life there are always going to be hard choices. Growing up is largely seeing that things are complicated and that there are no simple answers,” said writer Montclare in an interview at Comic Book Resources. “Rocket Girl plays with that idea; plays the balance between admiring Dayoung's hard principles and fretting over her naivety.”
Artist Reeder described her approach to drawing DaYoung in the interview. “She's got no shortage of courage. And almost too much heart and passion, which is fun to incorporate into a character who at first glance might appear frail or even lacking substance,” she said of the waify protagonist. “So visually it's turning her from wisp to whip. That's both in the physical strength that underlies her grace as well as in her quick expressions. Facial expressions are a big deal to me and teenagers are especially great to work with because they are either stifling their thoughts or flying off the handle. Both are extreme, in their own way. So when Dayoung shows any emotion, it's almost always with her heart on her sleeve.”
While inspired by Back to the Future 2, The Fifth Element, and Akira, ROCKET GIRL is a completely original take on time travel and coming-of-age, a must-read for lovers of adventure, science fiction, and retro-cool alike. Specially priced at just $9.99, the first volume, TIME SQUARED, will be in comic book stores on July 9 and bookstores on July 22.
ROCKET GIRL VOLUME 1: TIMES SQUARED by Brandon Montclare and Amy Reeder
  • ISBN 978-1-63215-055-4
  • 120 pages, $9.99
  • In comic book stores July 9, bookstores July 22
  • Collects issues #1-5 of ROCKET GIRL
  • Rated Teen
Praise for ROCKET GIRL: 

"I need this. You need this. Everyone needs this." – Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Batgirl)

"Gorgeous." – Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth)

“In the days where it feels like every editorial note passed down in the comics industry reads ‘Needs more grit,’ Brandon Montclare and Amy Reeder are a breath of fresh air with this hyper-kinetic adventure romp.” – David Henderson,
Multiversity Comics

Preview

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.
AN ASSASSIN RETURNS IN ARCHAIA'S 'THE KILLER' OMNIBUS VOL. 2

THE KILLER OMNIBUS VOL. 2 Cover by Luc Jacamon
THE KILLER OMNIBUS VOL. 2 Cover by Luc Jacamon
 
June 12,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - Retirement never lasts for a hired gun. This July, Volumes 3 and 4 of the Eisner Award-nominated series THE KILLER are collected for the first time ever in the definitive THE KILLER OMNIBUS VOL. 2 by Archaia, an imprint of BOOM! Studios. Originally published as a five volume series in France from 1998 to 2003, Le Tueur (THE KILLER) quickly became known as one of Europe’s grittiest and most hard-boiled comics—a brutal, bloody, and stylish story of a professional assassin lost in a world without a moral compass. The creative team of artist Luc Jacamon and writer Matz (CYCLOPS) continue their story of one assassin’s journey through a world of relentless violence. Though his brief retirement has not dulled his skills or resolve, new jobs will threaten his way of life and the very foundation of his morality.
 
“From the day it hit shelves in America, THE KILLER has not only been one of my favorite Archaia titles, but one of my favorite comics period,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “We can never get enough hard-boiled crime stories at BOOM!, and this series is the heart of European crime comics. Luc Jacamon and Matz have created a powerful story about a man with blood on his hands, and the moral struggle that comes with it.”
 
THE KILLER OMNIBUS VOL. 2 softcover collection arrives from Archaia in comic shops on July 23rd with a cover price of $24.99 under Diamond Order Code MAR140977. 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.
Hit Video Game Series ‘Borderlands’ Returns To Comics!
‘The Fall Of Fyrestone’ Continues The Epic Adventure At IDW Publishing

San Diego, CA (June 17, 2014) – The critically acclaimed videogame series Borderlands, begins an epic new canonical chapter this July in the original comic mini-series The Fall of Fyrestone, from IDW Publishing. Returning to the strange and deadly world of Pandora are Roland, Mordecai, Lilith, and Brick, who embark on an adventure as bizarre as the planet itself!

Following the footsteps of IDW’s hit mini-series Borderlands: Origins, The Fall of Fyrestone hits the ground running as The Vault Hunters step off of Marcus’s bus to find a city in turmoil and a threat that will take everything they have to overcome.

“Working on Borderlands: Origins was, without a doubt, one of my most fun experiences as an editor at IDW,” said editor Tom Waltz. “All the insane excitement of the mega-popular video game—not to mention its patented snarky humor—were brought to bear in that series, and with our same dynamic creative team on board for The Fall of Fyrestone, I guarantee you we’ll be turning up the dial way past eleven this time around!”

The new series welcomes back the creative team of the smash-hit Borderlands: Origins. Writer Mikey Neumann returns to Borderlands, having written not only Origins but also the original game. Agustin Padilla’s dynamic and eye-catching art will usher the hapless heroes through the new adventure.

"Since we finished up Origins, I've been waiting for the opportunity to continue onward in the story now that the Vault Hunters have met up on the bus,” says Neuman. “No, seriously. I've been waiting outside of Tom Waltz's house since we shipped the last issue. My hair has birds in it and I've been forced to eat them for nourishment. Tom doesn't look at me the same way anymore, but I know he's just as excited to be back (and also chuffed that I'm off his lawn)."

Adored by fans, the over-the-top franchise made waves with two highly successful videogames, and as a comic in the 2012 series Borderlands Origins. Return to Pandora with The Vault Hunters this July and discover the secrets of The Fall Of Fyrestone!
 
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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, G.I. JOE and MY LITTLE PONY; Paramount’s Star Trek; Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; 2000AD’s Judge Dredd; The Rocketeer; Toho’s Godzilla; Wizards of the Coast’s Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons; V-Wars from New York Times best-selling author Jonathan Maberry; Ragnarök from Eisner Award-winner Walter Simonson; Winterworld, created by Chuck Dixon and Jorge Zaffino; and Little Nemo from the award-winning duo of Eric Shanower and Gabriel Rodriguez. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints, Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio, and the multiple award-winning Artist's Edition imprint.

IDW’s critically- and fan-acclaimed series are continually moving into new mediums. Currently, Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Disney are creating a feature film based on World War Robot; Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Warner Brothers are producing a film based on Ashley Wood's Lore; Michael Bay‘s Platinum Dunes and Sony are bringing Zombies vs. Robots to film, Kurtzman/Orci are producing a movie based on Locke & Key at Universal. 

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES A VARIETY OF NEW OFFICIALLY LICENSED NARUTO SHIPPUDEN PRODUCTS FROM LEADING BRAND PARTNERS

VIZ Media Highlights An Array Of Games, Figures,
And Beverages Featuring The World’s Most Popular Ninja

San Francisco, CA, June 11, 2014 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, has announced several new license partners for forthcoming products featuring its popular NARUTO SHIPPUDEN manga (graphic novel) and anime property. VIZ Media is the global master licensor for NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN.

Video game company Bandai Namco Games of America Inc., board game and trading card developer Cryptozoic Entertainment, Japanese figure manufacturers, GECCO Corp. and Bandai Co., Ltd, as well as Saito Inryo Industry Co., Ltd.’s Ramune Japanese soft drink importer JFC International Inc., are among the brand partners to license NARUTO SHIPPUDEN for an array of exciting upcoming products set for release in coming months.

Leading video game publisher and developer BANDAI NAMCO Games America Inc. will release Naruto Shippuden Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution for the Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and also for PC digital download in September. The action packed story of the Storm series continues with more than 100 playable characters including a new Mecha-Naruto and more exclusive new characters originally drawn by NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto.  A co-promotion with card game developer Cryptozoic Entertainment will also give fans a special bonus Mecha-Naruto collectable trading card with purchase of the video game. Shippuden Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution pre-orders will be available at the Bandai Namco booth at Anime Expo (Booth #101) and also at San Diego Comic-Con International (Booth #129). Additional information available at: www.bandainamcogames.com.

BANDAI CO., LTD. will debut the articulated Naruto Uzumaki character figure as part of its popular S.H. Figuarts collectable line for the first time in North America. The figure will make its debut at the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con International in the Bluefin Booth (#3545). Additional details on Bandai toys and collectable products are available at: https://www.facebook.com/Tamashii.USA

Leading board game and collectable trading card manufacturer Cryptozoic Entertainment will launch a Naruto Shippuden Deck-Building Game in July. Fans can play as world most popular ninja, Naruto, or as one of his comrades. Gather and use mysterious Chakra power to confront and defeat S-rank criminals such as Orochimaru and members of the Akatsuki and explore distant lands to become the greatest ninja ever! Additional details available at: www.cryptozoic.com/games/naruto-shippuden-deck-building-game

High-end collectable figure manufacturer GECCO Corp. will unveil a limited edition 1/6 scale statue of the world’s most popular ninja, to be offered exclusively at the VIZ Media booth (#2813) during the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con International. In this limited edition version, Naruto Uzumaki is rendered in high quality full-color PVC, standing approximately 27cm tall and wearing the 4th Hokage’s famous coat. Additional information is available at: www.gecco.co.jp/naruto.html.

Japanese beverage distributor JFC International Inc. will bring a new NARUTO SHIPPUDEN themed version of the refreshing Ramune soft drink to U.S. retailers this summer. Enjoy NARUTO in a new way while enjoying one of Japan’s most popular beverages. More details on Ramune soft drinks available at: http://www.jfc.com.

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 properties. The manga series (rated ‘T’ for Teens, in print and digital editions) and animated counterpart (NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN rated ‘TV-14’) are some of VIZ Media’s most successful titles and have captivated millions of fans across North America, Europe and South America.

In the NARUTO manga and animated series, Naruto Uzumaki wants to be the best ninja in the land. He's done well so far, but Naruto knows he must train harder than ever and leaves his village for intense training that will push him to his limits. NARUTO SHIPPUDEN begins two and a half years later, when Naruto returns to find that everyone has been promoted up the ninja ranks – except him. Sakura’s a medic ninja, Gaara’s advanced to Kazekage, and Kakashi… well he remains the same. But pride isn’t necessarily becoming of a ninja, especially when Naruto realizes that Sasuke never returned from his search for Orochimaru. Plus, the mysterious Akatsuki organization is still an ever-present danger. As Naruto finds out more about the Akatsuki’s goals, he realizes that nothing in his universe is as it seems. Naruto is finding that he’s older, but will he also prove wiser and stronger?

More information on NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN is available at www.Naruto.com.

Additional information on titles available from VIZ Media is available at 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 digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP 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.

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Gecco-LimitedFigureComp

GECCO 1/6 Scale Limited Edition Naruto Shippuden Figure In 4th Hokage Coat


BandaiNamco-UltNinjaStormRevComp

BANDAI NAMCO Games America’s Naruto Shippuden Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution

2014 J-POP SUMMIT FESTIVAL TEAMS WITH KINOKUNIYA USA AND SEGA OF AMERICA TO PRESENT HATSUNE MIKU CHARACTER DESIGNER KEI AND A SPECIAL LIVE DEMO OF NEW

HATSUNE MIKU PROJECT DIVA F 2nd VIDEO GAME


Official Artist Illustrator That Designed The World’s First Virtual Pop Star Welcomed For A Rare Autograph Session; J-POP SUMMIT Attendees Invited To Browse A Wide Range Of Hatsune Miku Products And Play The New SEGA Rhythm Music Video Game Set For Fall Release

San Francisco, CA, June 11, 2014 – The 2014 J-POP SUMMIT, San Francisco’s premiere annual celebration of Japanese pop culture, music, fashion and film, is proud to team with Kinokuniya Book Stores of America and SEGA® of America to present very special Guest of Honor – KEI – the official character illustrator who designed Hatsune Miku, the wildly popular Vocaloid icon and world’s first virtual pop star.

The 2014 J-POP SUMMIT is set to take place across this city’s Japantown district Saturday and Sunday, July 19th and 20th. Additional information about the 2014 J-POP SUMMIT is available at: J-POP.com.

Retail bookseller Kinokuniya USA and video game developer SEGA of America will be located in two adjoining booths stationed in the heart of the Festival action on Post St. in Japantown. J-POP SUMMIT attendees will be able to meet KEI in person for a series of autograph sessions and browse a wide range of unique Hatsune Miku products and books presented by Kinokuniya.

SEGA of America will showcase Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F 2nd, the highly anticipated new rhythm music game title for the PS3 and PS® VITA platforms that is scheduled to launch in the U.S. this Fall. Attendees are invited to try the game in an exclusive West Coast live demo session happening throughout the weekend in the SEGA booth.

Character designer KEI will appear in-person in the Kinokuniya booth beginning at 1:00pm on both Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th to have special autograph session for the fans who purchase his illustrated art books, Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F or Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F 2ndOn both days, the first 100 people to purchase either title also will have the opportunity to autograph by KEI. Fans will also receive a free Hatsune Miku poster as a special gift with purchase.

SEGA’s Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F 2nd game title premieres the world’s most famous virtual pop singer in an exciting rhythm video game that features new and classic music tracks. Players can tap, hold, and flick to the beat as they play through 40 addicting songs and four expansive difficulty settings. The game features 20 all-new songs as well as 20 classic Miku tracks, including World Is Mine and DECORATOR. Miku’s friends Rin, Len, Luka, Meiko, and Kaito also join the party and each appears with their own songs to play. Players can fully customize every video with over 100 costumes and 150 accessories for favorite performers. A robust internal editing system also lets players construct custom videos and share them online via PSN. Players can even share creations with friends between the PS3 and the PS VITA.

In addition to the rhythm game, join Miku and friends in the DIVA Room to interact, play mini-games, view special cut-scenes, and relax as players enjoy a slice of the life of a virtual DIVA. Kinokuniya will be accepting pre-orders for Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F 2nd on-site throughout J-POP SUMMIT. After it is released, purchasers may pick up the game at the Kinokuniya San Francisco store, or request to have it delivered.

KEI is a Japanese illustrator and cartoonist. His watercolor-like “Moe” style caught the attention of publisher Dengeki Bunko and KEI made his artistic debut for the novel Kiseki no Hyougen. In 2007, Crypton retained him to create an illustration for their first Character Vocaloid product, Hatsune Miku. KEI’s illustration supported the sale of the groundbreaking software and helped to spark the Vocaloid trend. His fame also led to the creation of other virtual characters such as Kagamine Len/Rin, Megurine Luka and more.

Hatsune Miku, whose name means, “first sound of the future,” is a digital female avatar and the most popular of the Vocaloid Character Series software originally created by Crypton Future Media using Yamaha’s Vocaloid 2 engine to create synthesized vocal tracks. In Japan, Hatsune Miku is a major national phenomenon where she appears in many popular video games and music videos.

The J-POP SUMMIT was the very first event in North America to showcase Hatsune Miku, when it screened her live concert film in the NEW PEOPLE Cinema in 2010. Her fame and worldwide popularity has become a global phenomenon. Hatsune Miku is currently the opening performer for Lady Gaga’s new Artpop Ball U.S. Tour.

Stay tuned for additional J-POP SUMMIT Guest of Honor, programming and event announcements!

About Kinokuniya USA:
Kinokuniya bookstore was founded in January 1927 in Tokyo, Japan. The company now has over 80 stores and 35 sales offices worldwide. Each store offers a wide range of books in Japanese and English, as well as CDs, DVDs, T-shirts, toys and high quality stationary.
Kinokuniya USA`s Web site is located at www.kinokuniya.com/us/

About SEGA® of America, Inc.:
SEGA® of America, Inc. is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA® Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA® of America’s Web site is located at www.sega.com

About J-POP SUMMIT Festival
Launched in 2009, J-POP SUMMIT Festival is an annual street fair held in San Francisco, CA that celebrates Japanese popular culture. By introducing the latest in Japanese music, film, art, fashion, gaming, anime, food, as well as niche subcultures, the festival has become a prominent platform to showcase the latest pop trends and creative innovations from Japan.

The 5th annual J-POP SUMMIT held in July 2013 welcomed more than 80,000 attendees, making it one of the largest Japanese festivals in the United States. In addition to the original Festival held in Japantown, new attractions include the
J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE concert in downtown San Francisco, the Bay Area’s premier dedicated Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, and sake-tasting and fine foods events at the POP GOURMET Food Festival, which have each further enriched the experience. Additional information about J-POP SUMMIT Festival is available at: J-POP.com.

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KEI Haysune Miku Iillustration2Web
Illustration by KEI © SEGA © Crypton Future Media, Inc.
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.  June 11, 2014 – Von Allan, an Ottawa-based artist and comics creator, is using the action and adventure comics genre to deliver some real-world commentary in his brand new series, “Metal Gods.”  Unlike many other mediums, comics are generally perceived as being approachable and accessible, which makes them perfect for talking about contemporary issues; often the best stories are the ones that speak to the reader and are grounded in reality even as they entertain.  The first issue of “Metal Gods,” in a digital-first format, arrives on the popular comics platform comiXology, through comiXology Submit, on June 11, 2014.

“In 'Metal Gods,' I really want to play with comic book action and adventure tropes but I also want to write stories connected to the real world.” said Allan.  “I love the classic silver-age Marvel comics work by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko, who wrote stories that lived right in the contemporary zeitgeist of 1960s America.  Their stories took place in real time with the characters living in real cities, ageing, and going through the same things at the same time as their readers.  And the stories were grounded but also filled with action, adventure, and escapism.  I'm very pleased that 'Metal Gods' is in the same vein.  My characters will be dealing with the reality of life in 2014 but, at the same time, they'll be laughing a lot, loving each other, and running from a whole lot of villains and monsters.”

“Metal Gods” is the action/adventure story of two ordinary people dragged away from their everyday life of work, school, and bills into a fight against evil.  The story is set in modern-day Ottawa and follows Nick Connelly, a mechanic, and his girlfriend, Louella “Lou” Amos, a university student, whose lives are fairly ordinary until Nick's parents vanish.  Nick and Lou set out to find them, expecting yet another church or pyramid scheme, only to realize that the situation is far more serious.  Nick and Lou must find a way to defeat zealous cultists, supernaturally altered humans, well-armed thugs, and a powerful corporation, as they attempt to save his parents and possibly even the world.  “Metal Gods” is a series about personal strength, good and evil, and persistence in the face of huge odds.

“I love the themes of heavy metal,” Allan continued.  “Album cover art, demonic entities, kick-ass heroes, and the working class theme that was especially evident in the early days of metal.  Putting that into comic book form is a challenge, but something that I've been wanting to do for a few years now.  And 'Metal Gods' as a series is approachable enough that someone doesn't need to be a fan of metal to enjoy each issue; they'll have fun with it no matter what.  On top of it, my last few graphic novels have all featured kids and teens and, though I loved doing the all-ages work, it's been a lot of fun to spend time with grown-up characters.  I get a kick out of writing a tough-guy adult main character in Nick and an equally strong female one in Lou.  And even Nick and Lou themselves are really part of the modern zeitgeist with their bi-racial relationship, equal partnership, odd jobs, and economic and school worries.”

“Metal Gods” has an ISSN of 2292-7654, ISBNs of 978-0-9781237-6-5 (Issue 1) and 978-0-9781237-7-2 (Issue 2), a suggested retail price of $0.99 US per issue, and is presented in full colour. 

About Von Allan: Von Allan has been living and breathing comics in the Great White North for a number of years and has built an active and well-respected presence in the larger comics community. He has written, pencilled, and inked a number of short stories and two full-length, original graphic novels.  Both books were well received by fans, retailers, and critics and continue to sell today:  “the road to god knows...,” the heartwarming story of a teenager growing up with a schizophrenic mother; and “Stargazer,” an all-ages sci-fi/fantasy adventure.

About ComiXology: ComiXology has revolutionized the comic book and graphic novel industry by delivering a cloud-based digital comics platform that makes discovering, buying, and reading comics more fun than ever before. ComiXology’s Guided View™ reading technology transforms the comic book medium into an immersive and cinematic experience, helping comiXology become a top ten grossing iPad app in 2011 and 2012 and the top grossing non-game iPad app in 2012 and 2013. Offering the broadest library of comic book content from over 75 publishers – and independent creators as well – comiXology will not stop until everyone on the face of the planet has become a comic book fan. ComiXology is based in New York City, with an office in Los Angeles. For more information visit www.comixology.com.

2014 JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL OF SAN FRANCISCO ANNOUNCES A THRILLING ROSTER OF NEW AND

FIRST-RUN ANIME FEATURE FILMS DEBUTING IN CONJUNCTION WITH 2014 J-POP SUMMIT FESTIVAL


San Francisco, CA, June 10, 2014 – The 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, the first and only fully-dedicated Japanese film celebration for the S.F. Bay Area, will present an exciting slate of first-run anime feature films as part of its second annual week-long cinema extravaganza. Set to open in conjunction with the 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival on Saturday, July 19th and running thru Sunday, July 27th, the 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco (JFFSF) complements its roster of live-action programs with the announcement of 5 additional anime features, several to be presented as first-run U.S. premieres.

The JFFSF has partnered with leading anime distributors Aniplex, Nippon Television, Sentai Filmworks, and VIZ Media to offer a must-see line-up that includes theatrical screenings of Anohana The Movie: The Flower We Saw That Day, Berserk The Golden Age Arc III: The Advent, Garden of Words, Hunter X Hunter: The Last Mission and Short Peace.

The 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco will take place at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema, located inside the NEW PEOPLE J-POP entertainment complex at 1746 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115. Tickets for anime programs are $13.00 each, unless otherwise noted. Film summaries, trailers, screening times and advance tickets are available at: www.JFFSF.org.

Special JFFSF Anime Screenings During 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival:

SHORT PEACE
Sunday, July 20th, 2:45pm
The inspiring anime omnibus SHORT PEACE finds a lone traveler confronted by unusual sprits inside an abandoned shrine in the film, POSSESSIONS, while a mysterious white bear defends the village from a red demon in the brutal short, GAMBO. Men battle deadly robotic tanks in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo in A FAREWELL TO ARMS, and a spectacular tale of love, honor and firefighting in ancient Japan unfolds in COMBUSTIBLE.

Additional Japan Film Festival of San Francisco Anime Screenings:

ANOHANA THE MOVIE: THE FLOWER WE SAW THAT DAY
Monday, July 21st, 8:15pm
Don't miss the last chance to see Anohana the Movie on the big screen! The film is a tale of five childhood friends that have drifted apart from one another following the tragic death of their mutual friend Meiko "Menma" Honma. When "Menma" appears as a ghost and says that she cannot pass onto afterlife unless she is granted one last wish, time that has stood still begins to slowly move again.

BERSERK THE GOLDEN AGE ARC III: THE ADVENT – U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Wednesday, July 23th, 7:00pm & Sunday, July 27nd, 7:00pm
The horrifying conclusion to the Golden Age anime trilogy unfolds in a magnificently violent nightmare, signifying the birth of new era where darkness outshines the light. It’s been a year since Griffith’s imprisonment by the Kingdom of Midland. Once praised as the saviors of the Midland, The Band of the Hawk has been on the run and is on the brink of breaking apart. Much to everyone’s surprise, Guts returns to the Hawks and the search for Griffith begins!

GARDEN OF WORDS – S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Monday, July 21st, 7:00pm & Wednesday, July 23th, 9:15pm
Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this poignant film captures glowing moments from rainy season in Tokyo, unfolding a gentle tale of youth, love and unspoken words. When Takao, a 15-year old high school student who dreams of becoming a show designer, decides to skip school one day in favor of sketching in a rainy garden, he has no idea how much his life will change when he encounters a mysterious older woman named Yukino.

HUNTER X HUNTER: THE LAST MISSION – U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, July 26th, 12:00pm
Based on the bestselling manga series by Yoshihiro Togashi (creator of YuYu Hakusho), Gon and his friends visit the Battle Olympia tournament at Heavens Arena, where there's an unexpected raid by an armed group called the Shadow Squad. The group's leader, Jed, wants payback for the murder of his men by Netero."Death to all Hunters!" declares Jed as he captures Netero. In order to rescue his friend, Gon must defeat Jed and his powerful mind force to unveil the Hunter Association's dark secret!

NEW PEOPLE Cinema is a 143-seat cinema located in the underground floor of NEW PEOPLE in San Francisco. Equipped with a cutting-edge HD digital projection and THX®-certified sound system, NEW PEOPLE Cinema is home for local film festivals and entertaining events. www.newpeoplecinema.com


About JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL OF SAN FRANCISCO
Launched in 2013, Japan Film Festival of San Francisco is the first and only fully-dedicated Japanese film event for the SF Bay Area, will feature a colorful mix of narratives, anime and documentary film premieres and exclusive screenings with special guest appearance at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema in SF Japantown from July 19 (Sat) through 27 (Sun), 2014. See more details and ticket information at www.jffsf.org


About J-POP SUMMIT Festival
Launched in 2009, J-POP SUMMIT Festival is an annual street fair held in San Francisco, CA that celebrates Japanese popular culture. By introducing the latest in Japanese music, film, art, fashion, gaming, anime, food, as well as niche subcultures, the festival has become a prominent platform to showcase the latest pop trends and creative innovations from Japan.

The 5th annual J-POP SUMMIT held in July 2013 welcomed more than 80,000 attendees, making it one of the largest Japanese festivals in the United States. In addition to the original Festival held in Japantown, new attractions include the
J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE concert in downtown San Francisco, the Bay Area’s premier dedicated Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, and sake-tasting and fine foods events at the POP GOURMET Food Festival, which have each further enriched the experience. Additional information about J-POP SUMMIT Festival is available at: J-POP.com.