NERDIST INDUSTRIES’ CEO PETER LEVIN JOINS COMIXOLOGY’S ADVISORY BOARD

 March 29th, 2012 – New York, NY— ComiXology, the world’s largest digital comics platform available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web with over 50 million comic and graphic novel downloads to date, is proud to announce that Nerdist Industries’ CEO Peter Levin has joined comiXology’s Board of Advisors. In this new role, Levin will advise comiXology on strategic initiatives and partnerships as well as business and corporate development.
Nerdist Industries, a multi-platform creator of genre and popular-culture content, was most recently in the news when founder Chris Hardwick announced the launch of the Nerdist YouTube Channel with a slate of two-dozen new shows as well as their pre-Comic-Con International lightsaber relay race "Course of the Force" in partnership with Lucasfilm LTD., Machinima and Octagon.
Levin now joins an Advisory Board that includes geek culture veteran and CEO of ICv2 Milton Griepp, longtime president and editor-in-chief of DC Comics and MAD Magazine and Double Nickel Entertainment co-founder Jenette Kahn, and former head of ZDNet and investor in and advisor to several technology startups Jeff Ballowe.
Levin was co-founder and CEO of GeekChicDaily until it merged with Nerdist in 2011 to form Nerdist Industries. Levin serves as an Executive Advisor to Japanese media juggernaut Yoshimoto Kogyo and recently advised Rovio Mobile (Angry Birds).
About comiXology
Founded in 2007 with the mission of bringing comics to people everywhere, comiXology — in just five short years — has revolutionized the comic book and graphic novel world. From creating the industry leading platform for digital comics to tools and services for brick and mortar retailers, comiXology has lead the charge in exposing new audiences to the rich history and culture of comic books. With the development of the Comics by comiXology digital comics platform — available across iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web— comiXology provides the easiest way worldwide for people to enjoy comics at just the click of a button! Regularly ranking as the top grossing iPad app in the entire iTunes App Store, Comics by comiXology was recently selected as a preloaded app on Amazon’s Kindle Fire. Providing digital comics across multiple platforms, comiXology will not stop until everyone on the face of the earth has been turned into a comic book fan.
About Nerdist
Nerdist Industries is a multi-platform creator of genre and popular culture content – a true next generation media company. Founded in 2008, Nerdist is the brainchild of comedian, author, podcaster and new media personality and Talking Dead host Chris Hardwick. In 2011, Nerdist and GeekChicDaily merged to form Nerdist Industries with Hardwick serving as Founder and Chief Creative Officer and digital media entrepreneur Peter Levin, co-founder of GeekChicDaily, serving as Chief Executive Officer. Nerdist Industries consists of a popular website at Nerdist.com; a premium YouTube channel (youtube.com/nerdist), a top comedy/popular culture podcast network on iTunes, recently named one of the top 10 best comedy podcasts by Rolling Stone and sold as a television show to BBC America; a following of over 1.6 million Twitter fans, which Time Magazine named as one of the 140 most influential brands on Twitter; a book, The Nerdist Way, by The Penguin Group; a plethora of live events and much more. Nerdist Industries investors include Legendary Pictures, Mandalay Enterprises, Machinima CEO Allen DeBevoise, Japanese media juggernaut Yoshimoto Kogyo, Gamespy founder Mark Surfas and Revolution Studio's Joe Roth. Nerdist Industries' partners in its YouTube channel include The Jim Henson Company, Broadway Video Entertainment and The Chernin Company. Nerdist Industries is headquartered at Meltdown Comics in Hollywood, CA.

DARK HORSE PRESENTS: “RADIO GA GA”!

MARCH 28, MILWAUKIE, OR—“Radio Ga Ga” is the newest and zaniest story to come to the pages of the Dark Horse Presents anthology.  

Written by Chad Lambert and drawn by Apriyadi Kusbiantoro, “Radio Ga Ga” is the story of a young man with a dream who gets mistaken for an assassin. People think radio personalities are crazy, but sometimes it’s the listeners who are truly flippin’ nuts. Especially when they can get you arrested by the Secret Service. 

“Writers are supposed to write what they know, and no one knows how to fail at broadcasting more than me. I never realized my pain was so funny to others,” said Chad.

“I’ve been sitting on these radio stories for fifteen years, but I was always kind of embarrassed to share them. Then one day, out of the blue, my wife informed me that these tales would make fascinating comic-book stories. So, if you like ‘Radio Ga Ga,’ blame her.”

“Chad’s self-deprecating sense of humor makes his pain and suffering fun to draw. I’m proud to have this story be my debut at Dark Horse,” stated Apriyadi.

Check out “Radio Ga Ga” in Dark Horse Presents #14, on stands July 18!  

About Chad Lambert

Chad Lambert is a five-time Howard E. Day Memorial Award finalist and two-time Champion City Award nominee for his work in creator-owned small press comics. His recent work includes Kung Fu Panda from Ape Entertainment. Lambert spent several years in radio (1996–2002) as both an on-air personality and producer.

 About Apriyadi Kusbiantoro

Apriyadi Kusbiantoro is an Indonesia-based illustrator and founding member of Urakurek Animation Studio. His recent works include biographies of George Carlin and the Three Stooges for Bluewater’s COMICS series.

 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 Comics Panels noted in red.

Additional panels featuring Dark Horse creators, projects and products noted in black.

Friday • March 30^th

 ECCC Spotlight Series: Brian Wood
  Room: 211
Time: 3:00 - 4:00

The Emerald City Comicon Spotlight Series is designed to give you an intimate look into the minds of some of comics greatest creators. This hour, join creator Brian Wood as he talks about his work on Conan, DMZ, Northlanders and many others.

 Falling Skies Screening and Q&A
  Room: 4C1-2
Time: 3:00 - 4:00

TNT's epic drama Falling Skies makes its debut appearance at Emerald City Comicon this year. Watch a never-before-seen clip from the season 2 premiere episode and hear from the show's actors and producers about the new season. Falling Skies, basic cable's #1 new series of 2011, is set to return this June to continue its extraordinary story about life and survival in the wake of a catastrophic alien invasion. Noah Wyle (ER) stars as Tom Mason, a former college professor and father of three, who has become an unlikely leader for the 2nd Massachusetts civilian resistance group. The series chronicles the chaotic aftermath of an alien attack that has left most of the world completely incapacitated. Falling Skies comes to TNT from DreamWorks Television and is executive-produced by Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks Television heads Justin Falvey and Darryl Frank. Remi Aubuchon and Greg Beeman also serve as executive producers.

Drawing Inspiration: The Art of the Whedonverse  
Room: 4C1-2
Time: 5:00 - 6:00

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-panels look at the dynamic artwork of Dark Horses Joss Whedon titles, from pencils to inks to colors to print. Dark Horses public relations director, Jeremy Atkins, will lead a discussion with artists Georges Jeanty (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Phil Noto (Angel & Faith, Dollhouse), Chris Samnee (Serenity), and inker Andy Owens (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) for an inside look at the artists processes. We'll be showcasing a variety of art from past and future issues of these best-loved titles, including exclusive reveals and first looks!

ECCC Spotlight Series: Camilla d'Errico
  Room: 211
Time: 6:00 - 7:00

The Emerald City Comicon Spotlight Series is designed to give you an intimate look into the minds of some of comics greatest creators. This hour, Camilla d'Errico talks about how she made her dreams reality by giving up on the 9 to 5 grind and becoming a full time artist.

EXPANDING THE EXPERIENCE: VIDEO GAMES TO COMICS AND BACK AGAIN
  Room: TCC 102
Time: 6:00 - 7:00

When Dark Horse partnered with BioWare to expand the Mass Effect story line into comics, video-game tie-in comics were finally legitimized. Now, Dark Horse is widely recognized as the leading publisher of video-game comics, with launches throughout 2012 digitally and in print. Join us for an hour long preview of what’s to come this year, with exclusive news and announcements on current and upcoming projects with BioWare, Valve, Activision, and Bungie!

Saturday • March 31^st

ECCC Spotlight Series: Rick Remender
 Room: 211
Time: 11:00 - 12:00

The Emerald City Comicon Spotlight Series is designed to give you an intimate look into the minds of some of comics greatest creators. This hour Uncanny X-Force writer Rick Remender joins us. Rick is also the writer/creator of comics such as Fear Agent, The End League, Strange Girl, Black Heart Billy, Last Days of American Crime, Sea of Red, Sorrow, Night Mary, XXXombies and Doll and Creature.

Dark Horse Comics: Powered By Creators 
Room: 4C1-2
Time: 4:00 - 5:00

Just over twenty-five years ago, Dark Horse stepped into the comics-publishing arena with a different agenda. While the publisher has gained much notoriety for its popular licensed titles, like Buffy and Star Wars, one mission remains the same: to give comics top creators a venue for showcasing their work and retaining their ownership of it. Join Dark Horse's public relations director, Jeremy Atkins, along with a cast of premier talent, for news on all of Dark Horse's 2012 publishing launches and new Dark Horse Presents stories. Guests include Steve Niles (Criminal Macabre), Steve Lieber (Alabaster), Francesco Francavilla (Black Beetle), Sanford Greene (Rotten Apple), Ethan Nicolle (Axe Cop), Adam Warren (Empowered), Paul Tobin (Falling Skies), and Brian Wood (The Massive), and a few surprise drop-ins!

Sunday • April 1^st

ECCC Spotlight Series: Steve Niles 
Room: 211
Time: 12:00 - 1:00

The Emerald City Comicon Spotlight Series is designed to give you an intimate look into the minds of some of comics greatest creators. This hour, modern master of horror, Steve Niles, talks about what it takes to craft a good horror story, working with artists like Sam Kieth and Ben Templesmith and how his creation of 30 Days of Night changed the face of horror comics.

 Axe Cop
 Room: 3AB
Time: 1:00 - 2:00

Ethan and Malachai Nicolle, creators of Axe Cop, will do a live Q&A, show images and videos of new Axe Cop material, etc. Always a fun and highly interactive panel.

Mythic Fiction Comics: The Next Mega-Genre?
Room: 3AB
Time: 12:00 - 1:00

From Mage, Sandman and Bone to Fables, Castle Waiting, Hellboy and more, mythic fiction has been a fascinating -- and growing -- presence in comics. What is mythic fiction? Why is it so popular? And could it really become the next big thing in the comics field? Join moderator Kurt Busiek (Arrowsmith), Matt Wagner (Mage), Rachel Edidin (Dark Horse Comics), Bill Willingham (Fables) and Chris Roberson (Memorial) for a lively discussion about mythic fiction in comics, from its roots to it future.


ECCC Spotlight Series: Brandon Graham and Adam Warren in Conversation
  Room: 211
Time: 1:00 - 2:00

The Emerald City Comicon Spotlight Series is designed to give you an intimate look into the minds of some of comics greatest creators. Brandon Graham and Adam Warren join you this hour for a conversation talking about finer points of their work. Their western takes on manga have delighted readers locally and abroad. Expect a vivid and lively discussion. 

The True King of Camelot Meets His Destiny in

“The Sword and the Stone, Part 2,”

the Fourth Season Finale of MERLIN this Friday on Syfy

The legend’s most iconic moment arrives for Arthur, Merlin

and all of Camelot in March 30 episode

With Camelot firmly in the grasp of Morgana and her reign of terror, Merlin must go to extraordinary measures to restore Arthur’s faith and prove to the young King that he was truly born to rule in the second half of the thrilling two-episode MERLIN season finale, “The Sword in the Stone, Part 2,” premiering Friday, March 30 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Syfy.

Arthur has seen his kingdom overthrown by Morgana (Katie McGrath) and the powerful Southron warlord Helios (Terence Maynard) – and discovered his most trusted uncle Agravaine (Nathaniel Parker) has deceived him.  Now, Arthur has lost the ability to believe the people of Camelot would ever follow his lead.

But Merlin (Colin Morgan) guides Arthur (Bradley James) to one the most iconic symbols of the Arthurian legend to prove his worth: The sword in the stone.

There, Excalibur awaits, and Arthur may be able to embrace his destiny.

The sword in the stone has been handled with MERLIN’s now-familiar mix of intrigue and ingenuity – interpreted, asso many elements of Arthurian lore have been, with a unique perspective. When Arthur and Merlin find Excalibur, they share a moment of awe – and the look on their faces, Morgan says, was genuine.

“We really felt the importance of the moment,” Morgan says, recalling being on location in Wales to film the scene. “It’s one of those images that we have read about for so long – we have them so ingrained in our heads – that there’s something really stirring to have it right there in front of you and to act it out.”

“I think our fans will find the scene an intriguing, interesting take on the legend,” he adds. “Bradley and I were both genuinely aware that it was a very iconic moment, and we realized it was such a very special thing to be part of – and that made it one of the most fun days of filming during the entire season.”

It’s an example of the intricate, iconic pieces of the Camelot legend that need to fit perfectly within the world that has been created for MERLIN, says co-creator and executive producer Johnny Capps.  In addition to Excalibur and the stone, those elements include the Arthur-Gwen-Lancelot love triangle, Morgana’s siege of Camelot, Merlin’s rekindling of Arthur’s complete trust, and Arthur’s realization of his true destiny.

Capps says that plotting the path and scripting the details for incorporating those elements led to healthy debates between him and co-creator and executive producer Julian Murphy.

“Arguing is sort of an essential for creating, and it comes from a place of passion for the show,” Capps explains. “But I do think we have the most ridiculous arguments: We had a morning where we completely fell out because we were arguing over the qualities of pixie dust.

“It’s not because we don’t like each other, it’s because we have strong, passionate feelings about the show. The thing about creating and making shows is that it’s incredibly personal. I think the more passionate you argue about something, the better it becomes – because you make sure that idea is watertight by arguing it and having large conversations. You make sure the concept or the story line or the characters will absolutely work. It is absolutely part of the creative process,” Capps says. Then he adds, with a laugh: “So we argue … and then Julian always admits that he’s wrong.”

“The Sword in the Stone, Part 2,” the fourth season finale episode of MERLIN, airs Friday, March 30 at 10 p.m. ET/PT only on Syfy.  All three seasons of MERLIN are now available on DVD and on iTunes.  Be sure to follow the latest news on MERLIN at the Official Merlin page on Facebook.

For Immediate Release:

Get The Walking Dead Vol. 1 Free

at the

ComiXology Booth @ Emerald City Comicon’12

ComiXology @ Emerald City Comicon ’12 March 30^th- April 1^st Booth #308

ComiXology and Skybound partner up to give out 2,500 free digital copies of The Walking Dead Vol. 1 

first come, first serve

ComiXology @ ECCC ’12: Giveaways, Panels, and more!

March 28^th - New York NY, - Following the unprecedented demand for the free Walking Dead Vol.1 giveaway at WonderCon '12 earlier this month, comiXology - the world’s largest digital comics platform available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web- will be at Emerald City Comicon’12 doing it again! So make sure you visit comiXology (booth #308) during Emerald City Comicon at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle, Washington from March 30^th-April 1^st to get one of 2,500 free digital comic giveaway codes for The Walking Dead Vol.1.

Teaming up once again with The Walking Dead creator Robert Kirkman’s Skybound, comiXology is out make ECCC’12 unforgettable for comic fans with a free “taste” of the first graphic novel — regularly $8.99 for 140 pages —that the hit The Walking Dead TV show is based on. The first 2,500 Emerald City Comicon’12 attendees to come by comiXology’s booth (#308) will receive a limited edition promotional postcard imprinted with a unique download code redeemable for The Walking Dead Vol. 1 exclusively on comiXology.com in exchange for an email sign up.

In addition to the must-have The Walking Dead Vol. 1 giveaway, comiXology will be providing a hands on demonstrations of it’s Comics by comiXology digital comics platform at their booth all weekend long. Comic fans should not miss their chance to get a look at the all new 3.1 iOS upgrade that includes the CMX-HD digital comics format for the new iPad and features new sharing capabilities.
All ECCC ’12 attendees are invited to attend the special “ComiXology Open Discussion Panel” where comiXology co-founder and CEO David Steinberger will answer questions from the audience on “Everything Digital” with no topic off limits. The “ComiXology Open Discussion: Everything Digital Panel” will be on Saturday, March 31^st from 2:00pm- 3:00pm in Room 3.
Most recently, comiXology was in the news for their Comics by comiXology 3.1 iOS update. This update featured not only new sharing capabilities but also the debut of CMX-HD digital comics format to meet the challenge of the new iPad screen. ComiXology debuted 3.1 with a little over 100 titles in this new format. And, only five days later, comiXology was able to offer over 1,000 titles in CMX-HD format. CMX-HD upgraded files are a free upgrade to those who have previously purchased and at no additional cost for new purchases.
Shortly before the 3.1 announcement, comiXology announced they had surpassed 50 million comic books and graphic novel downloads since the inception of their Comics by comiXology digital comics platform - with 5 million of those downloads happening in this past December alone. In addition, this past October saw Comics by comiXology start to consistently chart as the top grossing iPad app in the entire iTunes App Store on new comics release day — a trend that has continued throughout 2012. Then in November, Comics by comiXology was selected as a pre-loaded app on Amazon’s Kindle Fire alongside Facebook and Twitter. By the end of 2011, comiXology had powered three of the top 20 grossing iPad apps — with Comics by comiXology coming in at number 11 for the entire year.

What: Emerald City Comicon 2012
When: March 30^th - April 1^st, 2012
Where: The Washington State Convention Center, Seattle WA
Booth #: 308

Giveaway: Limited edition promotional postcard imprinted with a unique download code redeemable for The Walking Dead Vol. 1 exclusively on comiXology.com in exchange for an email sign up.
Panels: Saturday, March 31^st from 2:00pm - 3:00pm - ComiXology Open Discussion: Everything Digital Panel with comiXology’s David Steinberger - Room 203.

About comiXology
Founded in 2007 with the mission of bringing comics to people everywhere, comiXology — in just five short years — has revolutionized the comic book and graphic novel world. From creating the industry leading platform for digital comics to tools and services for brick and mortar retailers, comiXology has lead the charge in exposing new audiences to the rich history and culture of comic books. With the development of the Comics by comiXology digital comics platform — available across iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web— comiXology provides the easiest way worldwide for people to enjoy comics at just the click of a button! Regularly ranking as the top grossing iPad app in the entire iTunes App Store, Comics by comiXology was recently selected as a preloaded app on Amazon’s Kindle Fire. Providing digital comics across multiple platforms, comiXology will not stop until everyone on the face of the earth has been turned into a comic book fan.
About The Walking Dead: "The Walking Dead" is a monthly black-and-white comic book series created by Robert Kirkman that follows a group of survivors through a world overrun by The Walking Dead as they struggle to survive an even deadlier threat: Living humans so terrified about their own survival that they are willing to sacrifice everything else. Winner of the 2010 Eisner Award for Best Continuing Series, the Skybound comic has been translated into more than 30 languages, and is available in over 50 countries worldwide. IGN called it "one of the best monthly comics available" and Complex hails it as "one of the best comic series of all time." It's also become the highest-rated drama on basic cable of all time. The AMC television series, with Kirkman serving as a writer and executive producer, had 11 million viewers for the season two premiere and was instantly renewed for a third season. As the first TV drama to be launched around the world simultaneously, it's in 120 countries, translated into 33 languages and is in 250 million households. The Walking Dead also dominated the New York Times' bestseller lists for graphic novels and was the top seller for 2011. www.Skybound.com is your destination for all news and merchandise for Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 03.27.2012

DON'T CALL IT A COMEBACK: SHARKNIFE GETS HIS SECOND CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT

Seven years ago, Cory “The Reyyy” Lewis took conventional comics as we know them, executed a flip-piledriver on the medium, and tossed the industry out of the ring and onto its collective behind. Sharknife was a book like no other, an energetic fight comic with slick sci-fi video game designs and an all-pervasive sense of fun. Most readers didn't know what hit them, but they knew they wanted more.

Well, good things come to those who wait. This Wednesday, March 28th, Oni Press will publish the long-awaited sequel, Sharknife ZZ, a 168-page epic of mayhem, romance, and cosmic enlightenment. To go along with this stellar premiere, Oni Press will also be returning the original graphic novel to print. For those who missed the awesomeness or who need a refresher on just how awesome it really is, Sharknife: Stage First, the fully loaded and updated edition, will be reclaiming its position on store shelves right alongside its successor.

Sharknife is the alter-ego of Caesar Hallelujah, an unassuming busboy at the Guandong Factory family restaurant. When Caesar eats one of his boss' famous magic fortune cookies, he's transformed into the charismatic brawler Sharknife. It's up to Sharknife to battle the pumped-up monsters that threaten the nightly dinner service at Guandong. In Sharknife ZZ, the big guy already has 100 battles under his belt and it's time to kick it all up to the next level. If he doesn't, Ombra the Orcasword may finally get the best of him, and there is apparently another Hallelujah waiting in the wings for just such an occasion.

Sharknife ZZ is a black-and-white, digest sized graphic novel out this week, March 28th, for the kindly retail price of $11.99. Aong with the similarly priced new edition of Sharknife: Stage First, you'll get a face full of fight this week at your favorite comic shop or books store.

To celebrate the release of the books, Corey Lewis will be a special guest at the Emerald City Comicon in Seattle, WA, on March 30 through April 1 where you can find him all weekend at Table: J-13. If you're looking for a peak at the originals you'll find an art gallery in Portland, OR at Floating World Comics opening April 5th through April 25th with an opening night galla featuring a Corey Lewis signing (details at the following link)

http://www.floatingworldcomics.com/main/2012/03/21/april-5th-sharknife-2-double-z-book-release-party-with-corey-lewis/

TERRY MOORE’S HARVEY AWARD-WINNER ECHO MAKES IT’S DIGITAL DEBUT ON COMIXOLOGY THIS WEDNESDAY MARCH 28TH

March 27^th - 2012, New York, NY - For the first time ever, legendary comic book creator Terry Moore brings his critically acclaimed, Harvey award-winning, Eisner nominated series Echo to comiXology — the world’s largest digital comics distributor — this Wednesday March 28^th, 2012. The first half of Moore’s fan favorite, science-fiction, action adventure series will be available across comiXology’s entire platform, including iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web with the rest of the series appearing on comiXology’s platform the following week. “Terry Moore is a giant in the comic book field,” says comiXology CEO and co-Founder David Steinberger. “Being able to deliver the complete run of Echo to comic book fans across the globe all on the same day — at just the click of a button — is why we created comiXology in the first place. Nothing makes me more proud than expanding the audiences able to experience this great comic series.”
 “I’m excited to debut Echo digitally on comiXology and capture an entirely new audience for my work,” said Echo creator Terry Moore. “As an independent creator, it’s important to have my work on every outlet available. ComiXology is the proven leader in digital comic book and graphic novel distribution and it’s the perfect place to digitally debut Echo.”
Terry Moore’s Echo has gained critical acclaim from all quarters since it’s original print debut back in 2008, including winning the 2009 Harvey Award for Best New series.  Also in 2009, Producer Lloyd Levin — most widely known as the producer for Watchmen, Mystery Men and Hellboy — optioned the rights to Echo with an eye toward film production. Echo follows the tale of photographer Julie Martin after she inadvertently becomes linked to a mysterious metal alloy capable of granting her strange powers. On the run from a government out to harness the alloy for reasons unknown, Julie must discover the secrets of the metal for herself while protecting those closest to her before it’s too late.
The digital debut of Echo, follows on the heels of the success of the same day as print release of Moore’s current ongoing series Rachel Rising #6 on comiXology, Moore continues to pave the way for independent creators and publishers seeking a new audience among digital readership.
Echo will be released in both single issues and in collected digital trades, offering fans the chance to experience this outstanding comic book in the way that works best for them.
Comic fans everywhere can start adding Terry Moore’s Echo to their digital comic libraries this coming Wednesday March 28^th only on the Comics by comiXology platform.

About comiXology 
Founded in 2007 with the mission of bringing comics to people everywhere, comiXology — in just five short years — has revolutionized the comic book and graphic novel world. From creating the industry leading platform for digital comics to tools and services for brick and mortar retailers, comiXology has lead the charge in exposing new audiences to the rich history and culture of comic books. With the development of the Comics by comiXology digital comics platform — available across iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web— comiXology provides the easiest way worldwide for people to enjoy comics at just the click of a button! Regularly ranking as the top grossing iPad app in the entire iTunes App Store, Comics by comiXology was recently selected as a preloaded app on Amazon’s Kindle Fire. Providing digital comics across multiple platforms, comiXology will not stop until everyone on the face of the earth has been turned into a comic book fan.

VIZ MEDIA DELIVERS A SECOND DIGITAL UPDATE FOR MARCH OF NEW MANGA SERIES LAUNCHING ON VIZMANGA.COM AND THE VIZ MANGA APP FOR iPAD, iPHONE AND iPOD TOUCH

GENKAKU PICASSO, THE PRINCE OF TENNIS And

YU-GI-OH! 5D’s Join The Extensive VIZ Manga Digital Library

VIZ Media continues to stir the imaginations of fans across North America with the latest announcement of a second update for the month of March featuring four new manga (graphic novel) series set to debut on VIZManga.com and for digital download on the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad^®, iPhone^® and iPod^® touch.

The newest update commences on Monday, March 26^th and features the digital launch of the surreal art-adventure of GENKAKU PICASSO, the on- and off-court sports action of THE PRINCE OF TENNIS, and the tense high-speed drama of YU-GI-OH! 5D’s. The new properties join six other VIZ Media manga titles that also launched earlier this month on VIZManga.com and the VIZ MANGA App.

The VIZ MANGA APP is available for free through the iTunes Store and all manga volumes are generally available for purchase and download in the U.S. and Canada within the application for $4.99 (U.S. / CAN) per volume. More than 45 series and 500+ volumes are currently available for download.

GENKAKU PICASSO Vol. 1 · by Usamaru Furuya · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

Hikari “Picasso” Hamura, a grouchy teenager with a talent for drawing, dies in a freak accident. The gods decide to revive him, but only on the condition that he use his artistic gift for the good of humanity. Picasso discovers that sketching a person’s aura yields a surreal portrait of their psyche. Stranger still, Picasso can dive into these dreamscapes and help people by exploring their deepest emotions, memories and perceptions.

THE PRINCE OF TENNIS Vol. 1 · by Takeshi Konomi · Rated ‘A’ for All Ages

Four-time consecutive U.S. Junior tournament champ Ryoma Echizen comes to Seishun Academy to further his reign as The Prince of Tennis. His skill is matched only by his attitude – irking some but impressing all as he leads his team to the Nationals and beyond!

YU-GI-OH! 5D’s Vol. 1 ·  Story by Masahiro Hikokubo, Art by Masashi Sato · Rated ‘T’ for Teens

In New Domino City, the hottest game in town is the Turbo Duel, fought from blazingly fast motorcycles called Duel Runners. On the outskirts of New Domino City, in a district known as Satellite, a new Turbo Duel hero emerges – Yusei Fudo! On his custom-built Duel Runner, Yusei takes on all challengers, fighting for his friends and the future of Satellite!

VIZ Media’s multiple digital manga platforms allow for universal access to read manga from an iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and now, on VIZManga.com for desktop/laptop PC-enabled computers as well as Android-powered devices with built-in web browsers. With one account, registered users may access their purchases across even more devices than ever.

The free VIZ Manga App continues to be the top app for reading manga and features a rapidly growing library of the most popular manga series in the world. Over 45 series and 500+ volumes are currently available, with new additions and free Chapter 1 previews added weekly.

For more information, please visit VIZManga.com or www.VIZ.com/apps. 

BOOM! STUDIOS @
EMERALD CITY COMIC-CON 2012
BOOTH #502 and #402

BOOM! GUESTS INCLUDE:

ADVENTURE TIME Creator: Pen Ward
ADVENTURE TIME  Writer: Ryan North
ADVENTURE TIME  Artist: Shelli Paroline
ADVENTURE TIME  Artist: Braden Lamb
 ADVENTURE TIME  Artist: Jen Bennett
&
PEANUTS Writer: Shane Houghton
PEANUTS Artist: Matt Whitlock
&
HIGHER EARTH & FANBOYS VS. ZOMBIES’ Sam Humphries
PLANET OF THE APES’  Daryl Gregory
VALEN THE OUTCAST's Michael Alan Nelson
I THOUGHT YOU WOULD BE FUNNIER's Shannon Wheeler


BE SURE TO GET
ALL OF BOOM!’S ECCC EXCLUSIVE
VARIANTS!


     


 

SCHEDULED SIGNINGS & PANELS

BOOM! Studios Booth #502

BOOM! Studios All Day Signing

Michael Alan Nelson, Writer (Valen the Outcast, 28 Days Later)

Sam Humphries, Writer (Fanboys v.s. Zombies)

Daryl Gregory, Writer (Planet of the Apes)

Shannon Wheeler, Cartoonist (I Thought You'd Be Funnier)

 

KaBOOM! All Day Signing Booth #402

Matt Whitlock, Artist (PEANUTS)

Shane Houghton, Writer (PEANUTS)

Ryan North, Writer (ADVENTURE TIME)

KaBOOM! All Day Sketching 

Shelli Paroline, Artist (Adventure Time)

Braden Lamb, Artist (Adventure Time)

Jenn Bennett , Artist (Adventure Time)

BOOM! and KABOOM! Panels and Signing Schedule

Friday 3/30/12

2:00PM : Emerald City Comic Con opens, KaBOOM! booth begins giving out lottery tickets for Saturday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

3:00PM-4:00PM : Chris Roberson, Writer (ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST)


Saturday 3/31/12

10:00AM : Mitch Gerads signing, Artist (PLANET OF THE APES) BOOTH #502

11:00AM : Lottery ticket cut-off for Saturday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

12:00PM : The winning fifty fans’ lottery ticket numbers posted at the KaBOOM! booth (#402) for Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

1:00PM-2:00PM : ADEVNTURE TIME Panel - Room 4C3-4

2:30PM-3:30PM : ADVENTURE TIME Signing With Pendelton Ward Booth #402
NOTE: Lottery tickets will be given out when the show opens Friday all the way to 11:00AM Saturday morning (or until we run out); 50 random fans will be chosen for this event from the lottery and their numbers posted at the KaBOOM! booth at noon on Saturday.

3:30PM : KaBOOM! booth begins giving out lottery tickets for Sunday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

6:00PM : BOOM! Studios Panel - Room 4C3-4


Sunday 4/1/12

10:00AM : Emerald City Comic Con opens, KaBOOM! booth begins giving out lottery tickets for Saturday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

11:00AM : Lottery ticket cut-off for Sunday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.

11:30AM : Fifty fans’ lottery ticket numbers posted at the KaBOOM! booth (#402) for Sunday’s Pendleton Ward ADVENTURE TIME signing.
NOTE: Lottery tickets will be given out after Saturday’s signing all the way to 11:00AM Sunday morning (or until we run out); 50 random fans will be chosen for this event from the lottery and their numbers posted at the KaBOOM! booth at noon on Saturday.

12:00PM-1:00PM : ADVENTURE TIME signing with Pendleton Ward and Chris Samnee - Booth #402

1:00PM-2:00PM : Editing Comics the BOOM! Studios way Panel - Room 201

3:00PM : Mitch Gerads signing, Artist (Planet of the Apes) - Booth #502

3:00PM-4:00PM : PEANUTS Comic panel - Room 3AB

4:00PM-5:00PM : Breaking into Comics panel - Room 4C1-2


About BOOM! Studios
Founded by Ross Richie, 2009 and 2010′s “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios generates a constellation of Eisner and Harvey Award-winning bestselling comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent, including Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE, new HELLRAISER comics written by Clive Barker, PLANET OF THE APES, 28 DAYS LATER, and Philip K. Dick’s DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?. BOOM!’s all ages imprint KABOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME, Roger Langridge’s SNARKED, and Scholastic’s WORDGIRL. BOOM!’s lit comix-focused imprint, BOOM! Town, recently won the Eisner Award for its first book, Shannon Wheeler’s I THOUGHT YOU WOULD BE FUNNIER.

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse™ Epic Graphic Novel Series, “What’s Your Vision of Pestilence?” Art Contest, Comic Cons and Retail Promotions headline Heavy Metal Magazine’s 35^th Anniversary Celebration!

Epic end-of-days tale “Helldiver” featuring the artistic genius of Simon Bisley hits retail shelves April 13, 2012

LOS ANGELES, CA – (March 27, 2012) –Heavy Metal Magazine’s 35^th Anniversary year-long celebration hits the ground running with the epic graphic novel series, The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Book One: HELLDIVER(ISBN: 978-1935351498) hits shelves on Amazon, comic book shops and retailers on April 13, 2012. Kevin Eastman, owner and publisher of Heavy Metal Magazine, states “This incredible three-book series featuring the stories of Michael Mendheim and art of Simon Bisley have sparked special fan incentives promotions and contests like the “What’s Your Vision of Pestilence? Art Contest that aim to thrill our die-hard Heavy Metal followers.”
What is your vision of Pestilence? Heavy Metal Magazine and The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse invite artists to submit their original artwork or photography interpretations to the Pestilence Art Contest through April 28, 2012. Top 10 Finalists will have the honor of their artwork celebrated in Heavy Metal Magazine’s September 2012 issue and receive a subscription to Heavy Metal Magazine, Top 5 Finalists will also receive signed copies of “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Book One: Helldiver” and Dystopia Rising: Table Top RPG from Eschaton Media with the Grand Prize Winner also taking home an original, signed Simon Bisley painting of Pestilence!
The contest is simple. Submit your vision of Pestilence through original artwork or photography through April 28^th 2012 at http://www.facebook.com/thefourhorsemenoftheapocalypse. The Top 10 Finalists will be chosen by Simon Bisley, Kevin Eastman, Dave Elliot and Michael Mendheim. Fans will choose the Grand Prize Winner from the Top 10 Finalists by Votes at the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/thefourhorsemenoftheapocalypse.
"I feel we have created a top-notch horror story that combines the feel of the Matrix with Hellraiser.” said Michael Mendheim, creator and writer. “We’ve already received a lot of great reviews and response from fans who’ve got an early peek at the story. We’re running the Pestilence Art Contest as a way of saying thank you to Simon’s fans as well as the life-long fans of Heavy Metal.”
Comics legend Simon Bisley adds “This book demanded a lot from the team and I think we all have something to be proud of. I’m thrilled to be a part of the story and to give Kevin Eastman and Heavy Metal Magazine a great way to celebrate 35 years of publishing incredible stories. I can’t wait to share one of my paintings with the winner of the Pestilence Art Contest.

"35 years is a long time for many people in this industry and we have a lot to celebrate at Heavy Metal”, says Kevin Eastman. “We’re coming out guns blazin’ with special retail promotions for our retailers and appearances at many of the upcoming Comicon’s.”
We have stuff for retailers! Retailers will soon be receiving news about a special incentive program and exclusive promotions.
Comic Con Tours for The Four Horsemen: Michael Mendheim will be at Wildcat Comic Con in Williamsport PA April 13 and at C2E2 in Chicago on Saturday April 14. Simon Bisley will make his return to the U.S. when he hits the Boston Comic Con on April 21^st -22nd. Keep checking the Four Horsemen website for updates.
For more information about the books, contests, events and promotions, be sure to check out our Facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/Thefourhorsemenoftheapocalypse and our homepage: http://fourhorsemen.heavymetal.com/.
About The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse:
The End is Here- Welcome to the Apocalypse! Adam Cahill is a warrior bound by bloodline to guard the Seven Holy Seals that contain the End of Days. But sinister forces strike against him and send him into Hell itself. There, he must find three corrupt souls, chosen by Divinity, to join him in battle against the Four Horsemen to not only save their own souls, but to decide the very fate of Humanity. In addition to the works of Simon Bisley, the series will feature additional art by the late Stan Winston, Tim Bradstreet, Chad Fidler, and Dave DeVries, and script written by co-writers Mike Kennedy and Sean Jaffe. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Book One: Helldiver is available on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935351494/ref=cm_cd_asin_lnk
About The Writer: Michael Mendheim Michael Mendheim has worked as an Executive Producer and Creative Director in the videogame industry for over twenty years. Some of his projects include the #1 hit, Mutant League Football, the hugely successful, Army Men series and the critically acclaimed Robocalypse. Michael is currently producing the Free-to-play online shooter CrimeCraft.
About the Artist: Simon Bisley
Simon Bisley, world-famous fantasy painter/illustrator, started his career when he signed up with 2000 AD, a British comic book company, where he was assigned "ABC Warriors," "Sláine" and "Judge Dredd." Following his massive success in the U.K., Mr. Bisley American invasion started with DC Comics, where he produced award-winning work on "Doom Patrol,"  "Lobo," and fan favorite "Batman vs. Judge Dredd." 
About Heavy Metal Magazine:
Founded in 1977, Heavy Metal has become an iconic American science fiction and fantasy comics magazine known world-wide for its incredible blend of dark fantasy/science fiction and erotica. Kevin Eastman, co-creator of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, purchased the world re-known "Heavy Metal Magazine" in 1990 and serves as Publisher and Editor-in-Chief.

The Rocketeer flies again with Waid and Samnee! This August, turbulence and adventure become synonymous San Diego, CA (March 26, 2012) – IDW is pleased to announce that this summer, Dave Stevens’ legendary, high-flying avenger of the skies will soar once again! This August, renowned writer Mark Waid teams up with the inimitable Chris Samnee to bring The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom! to comic shop shelves everywhere. Everyone’s favorite adventure-prone jetpack owner, Cliff Secord, finds himself at the center of another adventure when a mysterious tanker pulls into L.A. Harbor carrying dangerous cargo. "As someone who bought every Rocketeer comic the day they first came out, this is a dream project for me. Dave Stevens created a terrific, iconic hero who beautifully and uniquely spans the gap between the pulp heroes of the 1930s and the comic-book crimebusters of the 1940s”, said Mark Waid. “He's got a foot in both those worlds, and he's a ball to write. And working with Chris Samnee was the part of IDW's offer that sealed the deal for me.” Chris Samnee echoes Waid’s enthusiasm: “I couldn't be more excited to be drawing The Rocketeer. I've been a fan of the character, and a massive fan of Dave Stevens's work since I was a kid, and getting a chance to draw him is a real dream come true. I can't wait for folks to see what we've been cooking up.” If the fan reaction following IDW’s announcement at WonderCon 2012 is any indication, these are the right guys for the job! Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.

About IDW Publishing IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Toho’s Godzilla; Wizards of the Coasts Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons; and the Eisner-Award winning Locke & Key series, created by best-selling author Joe Hill and artist Gabriel Rodriguez. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints, and Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio. 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, while Michael Bay‘s Platinum Dunes and Sony are bringing Zombies vs. Robots to film.

REBEL BLOOD #1 SELLS OUT

Image Comics horror comic book gets 2nd printing

Image Comics has yet another sell out with the debut issue of the new horror series REBEL BLOOD by Alex Link and Riley Rossmo (GREEN WAKE). The issue will immediately go back to press, and the second printing (FEB128198) will be in stores on April 25, the same day as REBEL BLOOD #2 (FEB120517).

Published under Image's Shadowline imprint, REBEL BLOOD pits fallen firefighter Chuck Neville against a contagion that is turning people — and animals — into bloodthirsty killers. Alone in a remote fire station in the forest, Chuck will have to fight his way out to save his family... or find out that he's too late.

REBEL BLOOD is a monthly, ongoing comic book. It is available in comic book stores and on multiple digital platforms.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.