DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES NEW 

KNIGHT ERRANT & BLOOD TIES SERIES!

October 13^th, NEW YORK, NY – Fresh from the panel at New York Comic Con, Dark Horse Comics is back with new series arcs from two of their most popular Star Wars books! 

Star Wars: Blood Ties – Boba Fett is Dead

Established Star Wars writer Tom Taylor is back with another stunning Blood Ties series to be released in April 2012. 

"Boba Fett is dead. The most infamous hunter in the galaxy has been hunted. He's lying, broken, on the desert floor. He's more blaster-holes than man.  It's the ultimate ending. However, this is just the start of our story. With the fall of Fett broadcast across the galaxy, someone rises to avenge him. But who would care about the death of a man like Fett? Bounty hunters aren't exactly known for their enduring, close friendships but even a man like Boba Fett has family... and now a Blood Tie demands blood."  -Tom Taylor

Star Wars: Knight Errant - Escape

The next installment of the sunning Knight Errant series was announced today.  Star Wars: Knight Errant – Escapewill launch in June 2012 for a 5-issue arc. 

Fan favorite John Jackson Miller is writing the series, with artwork from penciller, Marco Castiello, inking by Vincenzo Acunzo, colors by Michael Atiyeh and lettering by Michael Heiser.

John Jackson Miller’s Knight Errant novel for Del Rey was a New York Times Bestseller.

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

DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES STAR WARS: DARTH VADER AND THE GHOST PRISON!

DARK HORSE COMICS ANNOUNCES STAR WARS™: DARTH VADER & THE GHOST PRISON

October 15, NEW YORK, NY – Darth Vader is back and kicking ass in the brand new series announced today at New York Comic Con by Dark Horse Comics. 

The upcoming 5-issue series is slated to be released next May and will be written by Haden Blackman, with artwork by Agustin Alessio. 

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

Ghost Prison also marks the return of Star Wars character Moff Trachta who will be vital to how the series unfolds. 

Star Wars: Darth Vader and The Ghost Prison is in stores May 2012.

About Dark Horse Comics

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

Lucasfilm, the Lucasfilm logo, STAR WARS™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd.  All rights reserved.  All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES STAR WARS: DAWN OF THE JEDI

TAKING YOU BACK TO THE BEGINNINGS OF THE JEDI!

October 14, New York, NY— Direct from New York Comic Con, Dark Horse Comics announces its most exciting Star Wars title for 2012! A brand-new series that establishes the beginnings of the Jedi!

Series creators John Ostrander and Jan Duursema have gone from the future of Star Wars (Legacy) to the beginnings of that galaxy far, far away to reveal the mythic age of the Jedi’s origin.  This is the Star Wars era of legend!  Launching with a #0 issue, which will serve as the official guide for readers -Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi is the perfect jumping on point for any fan of Star Wars! 

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

On the planet Tython, in the center of the galaxy, an order of warrior monks strives to maintain peace and to balance the mysterious power known as the Force. But a stranger is coming—one who will destroy both peace and balance, and open the galaxy to exploration and conquest. This is where it all begins!

Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi #0 is on sale 1 February 2012

Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi—Force Storm  #1 is on sale 15 February 2012

STAR WARS™: KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC—WAR! 

A NEW BEGINNING FOR THE OLD REPUBLIC! 

October 14, NEW YORK, NY—Straight from New York Comic Con, Dark Horse Comics is proud to announce the next addition to Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic . . .

War!

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

The Republic and the Mandalorians are at war! Following the charismatic Revan, Jedi are joining the fight, despite the noninterference stance of the Council. One Jedi, however, has found himself on the front lines against his wishes—the peace-loving Zayne Carrick has been drafted!

Written by Star Wars master John Jackson Miller, with cover art by Benjamin Carré and a variant cover by Dave Wilkins, Knights of the Old Republic—War doesn’t just mark the return of one of the most popular eras in Star Wars video games and comics—it is an entry point for any reader interested in Star Wars!

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic—War is on sale January 11, 2012!

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

Lucasfilm, the Lucasfilm logo, STAR WARS™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd.  All rights reserved.  All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

CELEBRATE THE PREMIERE OF THE WALKING DEAD SEASON TWO

WITH COMIXOLOGY'S “THE WALKING DEAD HALF-OFF SALE”

ALL DAY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16TH

Volume 1 through Volume 14 & most recent issues all half-off

New York, NY—October 14, 2011 - In anticipation of Sunday night's premiere episode of The Walking Dead Season Two, enjoy a full day of reading The Walking Dead comic books and graphic novels for half-off — available across all Comics by comiXology platforms iOS, Android, the Web and The Walking Dead’s own iOS app! Now is your chance to read the original The Walking Dead ongoing comic book series published by Image Comics.

"The Walking Dead is now a bona fide television phenomenon and the Season Two premiere is a great way to discover the original source material for the show," said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. "If you have enjoyed The Walking Dead, but never read the comic, this is a great opportunity."

The Walking Dead Volume 1 through Volume 14, collecting the first 84 issues of the series will be half-off! While at the same time you can get caught up with the newest uncollected issues #85 through #89 for half-off as well.

Based on one of the most successful and popular comic books of all time, written by Robert Kirkman, AMC’s The Walking Dead captures the ongoing human drama following a zombie apocalypse. The series follows a group of survivors, led by police officer Rick Grimes, who are traveling in search of a safe and secure home. However, instead of the zombies, it is the living who remain that truly become the walking dead.

About comiXology

Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, IDW Publishing, Archaia Entertainment, BOOM! Studios, Dynamite Entertainment and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 14,000 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace.

About 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.

About Skybound Ent

SKYBOUND is an all-new imprint of Image Comics. The imprint will give a new generation of comic book creators the opportunity to publish their works as SKYBOUND Originals. With SKYBOUND, Image COO Robert Kirkman will handpick up-and-coming creators and maintain an active role in promoting and expanding the projects of this already growing talent pool. Artist and imprint alike will be fully vested in the development of their properties into new mediums (e.g. television, film) globally.

VIZ MEDIA TO DEBUT WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA

NORTH AMERICA’S ONLY NEAR-SIMULTANEOUS

DIGITAL MANGA MAGAZINE

WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Brings Fans The Most Popular Manga In The World Faster Than Ever Before

San Francisco, CA, October 14, 2011 – VIZ Media, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in the North America, announces the countdown to the launch of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA (WEEKLY SJ ALPHA), a weekly serial anthology of some of the most popular manga series in the world: BAKUMAN。, BLEACH, NARUTO, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE, and TORIKO. The first issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA goes on sale January 30, 2012, and will be available through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga apps for iPhone™, iPod™ touch and iPad™.

Each new digital issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA brings manga fans in North America the latest chapters of their favorite series only two weeks after it debuts in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP Magazine. Currently, Japanese releases are often several months to years ahead of North American print titles; WEEKLY SJ ALPHA eliminates the delay in unprecedented fashion.

“Simultaneously publishing an official translation of the most popular comics magazine in the world has been a dream since manga publishing began in North America in the 1980s,” said Alvin Lu, Senior Vice President & General Manager. “This is how manga is meant to be read in English – weekly, current, authorized and on the go. Now with WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA, it’s about to happen for real.”

WEEKLY SJ ALPHA will be made available through an annual membership that provides access to 48 weekly issues for 52 weeks for just $25.99. Single issues of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA can be read for a four-week rental from the time the reader purchases it for only $0.99. Each issue, once received on one device, can be read on all other enabled devices through the easy-to-use integrated VIZ Manga app and website.

To prepare fans for the debut of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA, VIZ Media is also offering the SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP, a limited collection of digital graphic novel speed-ups that will bring North American readers up-to-date with Japanese releases. In some cases, the digital speed-ups will jump ahead of the print releases in North America. The SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP will begin with NARUTO Volume 53 (available now) and BLEACH Volume 49 (coming soon).

As more fans migrate to the digital WEEKLY SJ ALPHA edition, VIZ Media plans to phase out the print edition of SHONEN JUMP Magazine. The popular, one-of-a-kind monthly magazine led the rapid growth of the manga market for much of the last decade and was VIZ Media’s flagship publication since it launched in 2003. The farewell April 2012 issue hits newsstands March 2012. 

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

Dragon Ball Z® Ultimate Tenkaichi BLASTS OFF TO PRODUCTION AND ARRIVING IN STORES OCTOBER 25

NAMCO BANDAI Games Announces Production Underway for Fall Release

SAN JOSE, Calif. (October 13, 2011) – Leading video game publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that Dragon Ball Z® Ultimate Tenkaichi has been approved for production for the Xbox 360^® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation^®3 computer entertainment system, releasing in North America on October 25 2011.

With Earth-shaking combat, massive character selection, faithful manga-style graphics and exciting new features, Dragon Ball Z® Ultimate Tenkaichi is the newest fighting game in the Dragon Ball series.  Developed by Spike Co. Ltd., the title features upgraded battle environmental and character graphics, with designs from the original manga series.  Destructible battle fields, including massive craters and ki energy blasts cutting across the sky deliver a more dynamic experience and immediate sense of urgency to the exhilarating fights.  An accessible battle system allows gamers of all ages to enjoy the fast-paced battles while still retaining tactical depth for hardcore fans.

An enhanced story mode puts players into the rich Dragon Ball Z universe, filled with beloved characters and powerful enemies.  Closely mirroring the animation series, fight presentations include battles with giant bosses.  Bonus levels and fighters from the movies and Dragon Ball GT series are also included.  Additional fan-favorite feature includes complete character creation and customization.  Appearance and attributes can be customized such as model body, hair, attire, fighting style, special moves and more.

Dragon Ball Z® Ultimate Tenkaichi will be available throughout North America on October 25, 2011.  For more information, please visit: http://dragonball.namco.com.

THE IRREDEEMABLE/INCORRUPTIBLE
CROSSOVER YOU DEMANDED IS HERE!
THE PLUTONIAN VS. MAX DAMAGE
 

October 13, 2011 - Los Angeles, CA - The epic match-up between the world's greatest hero-turned-villain and his arch villain-turned-hero is here! This December, read both IRREDEEMABLE and INCORRUPTIBLE for the full story on The Plutonian vs. Max Damage and their superhero adventures. These epic new titles from BOOM! Studios are both written by Mark Waid (KINGDOM COME, THE TRAVELER) with INCORRUPTIBLE's art by Marcio Takara  and IRREDEEMABLE's art by Diego Barreto. BOOM! Studios offers the first part of this four issue crossover in the 22-page issue of IRREDEEMABLE #32 and the story continues in INCORRUPTIBLE #25.  This action-filled arc concludes in IRREDEEMABLE #33 and INCORRUPTIBLE #26.

“This is the crossover we've been waiting to tell,” says BOOM! Studios Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ross Richie. “We get to peer deeper into Max Damage's origins. These two iconic characters have been powerhouse adversaries since the first issue and we are thrilled to add to the mythology of both of these great series.”

The legendary IRREDEEMABLE/INCORRUPTIBLE crossover continues toward its explosive conclusion! The Plutonian and Max Damage have always been epic adversaries… but how did they get that way? The crossover event that tells the story of their first face-off starts here! Not Reading INCORRUPTIBLE? You’re missing out! This is the first issue of the IRREDEEMABLE/INCORRUPTIBLE crossover: a can’t-miss issue of Mark Waid's multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-nominated superhero series!

IRREDEEMABLE and INCORRUPTIBLE are written by Mark Waid (KINGDOM COME) with INCORRUPTIBLE's art by Marcio Takara and IRREDEEMABLE's art by Diego Barreto. Each issue features 22-pages of story and carryies a price point of $3.99 with a Diamond Code of OCT110916 for IRREDEEMABLE #32 and OCT110918 for INCORRUPTIBLE #25.

About BOOM! Studios
Founded by Ross Richie, 2009 and 2010's "Best Publisher" BOOM! Studios, an Eisner and Harvey Award-winner, generates a constellation of 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, 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.

IDW Partners with Renowned Author Stephen King and Eisner-winner Joe Hill

New comic adaptation of the first collaboration
by father and son coming in February
 

San Diego, CA (October 13, 2011) – IDW Publishing is proud to announce ROAD RAGE, a new partnership with best-selling authors Stephen King and Joe Hill, to produce a comic-book adaptation of their co-written adventure tale, Throttle. This monthly two-part series begins in February, and will be followed by two issues adapting the story that inspired Throttle, Richard Matheson’s classic tale of suspense, Duel, beginning in April.

“Throttle is a story that really begs for a visual adaptation: it’s got bikes and badasses and lots of expensive rolling iron blowing up and getting smashed,” said Hill. “Who doesn't get off on that? I can’t wait to see IDW get behind the wheel and take the thing out for a spin.”

Throttle, the first collaboration between father-and-son King and Hill, was not only inspired by Matheson’s Duel, it also only appeared in print in a limited-edition anthology honoring Matheson’s works, He is Legend. Throttle and Duel were subsequently released as an audiobook called Road Rage, which is the banner title the comics will also carry.

Throttle tells the story of a motorcycle gang pursued by an unseen assailant in a big rig, but as might be expected knowing the talent involved, things aren’t exactly as they seem.

“Working with the great Joe Hill (I can say that because he’s my kid) on such a kick-ass story was a terrific treat, and this version takes it to whole new level,” said King. “Rev up and climb on!”

Adapting the story alongside Hill and King is Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer and the editor of Hill’s New York Times best-selling graphic novel series, LOCKE & KEY. Handling art duties is Nelson Daniel, whose own collaboration with Hill and artist Zach Howard, THE CAPE, was nominated for a 2011 Eisner Award. Daniel will handle full art and colors, and provide a cover. Acclaimed artist Phil Noto will also provide covers for the two-part series. Ryall, who received a 2006 Eisner nomination for his and Ashley Wood’s adaptation of Matheson’s “Blood Son,” will also adapt Duel, with artist Rafa Garres for that two-part series. As a special bonus on the King/Hill story, artist Tony Harris will paint two incentive covers that show the authors themselves on a motorcycle road-trip.

“Like Joe and Steve, Richard Matheson’s Duel had a huge impact on me as a kid,” said Ryall. “And so did the works of Stephen King. Add to that mix the chance to continue working with Hill and Daniel, two of the very best creators of my generation, and you’ve got the makings of a project that’s very special to me. And as long as I don't screw up my part, it’ll hopefully be as special for all their fans when it comes out. Otherwise, you know who to blame…”

ROAD RAGE: THROTTLE will be released in February and March, with ROAD RAGE: DUEL to follow in April and May.

Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.

About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.

Robert Englund announced as horror guest of honour for Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo 2012

 

Freddy Krueger slashes his way through Calgary April 27-29, 2012 

Calgary, AB… One, two Freddy’s coming for you. During the Seventh Annual Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo, Robert Englund (Nightmare on Elm Street) will invade your dreams as the Calgary Expo’s horror guest of honour.

Robert Englund is renowned for his role as the deranged and disfigured serial killer Freddy Krueger from the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise. Englund portrayed Freddy in all eight of the original Elm Street films.

“Freddy Krueger is a pop culture icon because of Robert Englund. His frightening performance is why the Nightmare of Elm Street films are my favourite horror series,” said Kandrix Foong, Event Director of the Calgary Expo. “Robert is a guest that fans have wanted to see, so bringing him to Calgary brings chills up my spine.”

So don’t turn out the lights, don’t close your eyes and whatever you do – don’t fall asleep. This year’s Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo will be held April 27 – 29, 2012 at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Advance tickets will go on sale December 1, 2011. For more information, please visit our website at www.calgaryexpo.com

twitter - @calgaryexpo

About the Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo

Founded in 2006, the Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the pop culture arts, including comic books, sci-fi, gaming, anime, horror, cartoons and collectibles. Calgary is the second largest pop culture event in Canada with 30,000 attendees and one of the fastest growing events in North America.

SNARKED #1
SELLS OUT!
GOES TO SECOND PRINTING!

October 13-, 2010 - Los Angeles, CA -
KABOOM!, BOOM! Studios’ All Ages imprint, is proud to announce SNARKED #1 has completely sold out of its first printing and will be going to a second print!

SNARKED #1 second print features more of two-time Harvey Award winner Roger Langridge (THE MUPPET SHOW, THOR: THE MIGHTY AVENGER) and his side-splitting adventure.  Both written and drawn by Langridge, SNARKED #1 second print is available from Diamond Comic Distributors with the following Diamond Code: AUG118218.

SNARKED continues its hot streak after KABOOM! offered Issue #0 for the introductory price of $1.00! With new readers piling into comic book stores, demand has outpaced supply with the next issue, leading SNARKED #1 to sell out the day after its release.

SNARKED fans should keep in mind, while Diamond Comic Distributors have completely sold out, first printings of SNARKED #1 may still be found at the local comic shop nearest you. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use http://www.comicshoplocator.com to find one!

This first issue of SNARKED takes a journey with Langridge as he pulls the carpet out from under such Lewis Carroll classics as “The Walrus and The Carpenter,” “Through the Looking Glass,” and “The Hunting of the Snark,” creating an all-new world of humorous grandeur. Join Princess Scarlett as she and her baby brother, Rusty, outwit the villainous royal advisers and team up with the infamous Walrus and Carpenter to set sail in search of their father, the Red King, who has been lost at sea for six months.

SNARKED #1 second print (Diamond Code: AUG118218 ) ships with a must-have Walrus variant cover by Roger Langridge, reproducing the A and B covers in a spectacular wrap-around version, recolored for this edition exclusively!

About BOOM! Studios Founded by Ross Richie, 2009 and 2010's "Best Publisher" BOOM! Studios, an Eisner and Harvey Award winner, generates a constellation of 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, 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.

IDW Announces Smoke And Mirrors

All-new series incorporates magic to revolutionize the comics experience
 

San Diego, CA (October 12, 2011)—Leading into New York Comic-Con, IDW Publishing today announced the all-new, creator-owned SMOKE AND MIRRORS. Kicking off in March 2012, this five-issue series will set a unique standard for comics. Created by award-winning writer Mike Costa (GI JOE: COBRA, Blackhawks) and acclaimed indie-artist Ryan Browne (God Hates Astronauts, Blast Furnace), SMOKE AND MIRRORS is also the first comics project for Jon Armstrong who is one of the finest sleight-of-hand artists in the world and a consulting Imagineer for Disney Entertainment. This innovative team has incorporated engaging, mind-bending illusions and mentalism principles into SMOKE AND MIRRORS, creating an amazing magical experience using only ink and paper.

“I’ve been with IDW for almost four years now, and in that time they’ve taken some really crazy risks with me in terms of the stories I wanted to tell and the storytelling devices I used to tell them. After showing so much good faith, I decided it was time to return the favor and start taking those risks on a book of my own,” said Costa. “SMOKE AND MIRRORS is my first creator-owned book, and I am immensely proud to have it published by this company that has given the industry some of the greatest creator-owned books of the last decade. The only thing I’m more proud of is the fact that I get to do it with Ryan Browne, a ridiculously talented artist who has been my best friend for literally 20 years, and Jon Armstrong, one of the finest magicians I've ever seen, and my friend and mentor.”

Armstrong, Browne and Costa revolutionize the comics experience by using magic as a storytelling technique in SMOKE AND MIRRORS.  SMOKE AND MIRRORS is the story of stage magician Terry Ward, who finds himself transported to a world where Magic is real and he must use trickery and illusions to survive.

“This is my first major finished project with Mike and is the culmination of a lifetime of working on plots and ideas together,” said Browne. “I’m really excited to bring my art and storytelling abilities to the amazing narrative that Mike and Jon have created and fans of my work on God Hates Astronauts will not be disappointed. We will be experimenting with new ways of telling a story and making the reader a part of our adventure–breaking new ground and pushing the medium in directions that it has never gone before. We urge you to keep a second pair of socks handy since the ones you're wearing are about to be blown off!”

Armstrong adds: “As a life-long comic fan, I’ve always wanted to create in this medium. Being able to apply my unique skill set to comics and working with creators I admire was just way too exciting to pass up.  Because of how I related to our magician and protagonist Terry Ward, I wanted an especially innovative way to use magic as more than a gimmick. Magic is an essential component of propelling Terry’s story forward, while allowing the reader to have the same engaging and amazing experiences our characters are having. I’m trilled to that IDW is letting me play in the world that we are creating.”

Click here to watch an exclusive interview with Costa and Armstrong discussing SMOKE AND MIRRORS.

SMOKE AND MIRRORS  #1 (of 5, $3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores in March 2012.


Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.


About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.

The Infestation Spreads Again 

Epic crossover event returns with bigger threats, more franchises

IDW’s second ground-breaking multi-title event kicks off in January 2012
 

San Diego, CA (October 12, 2011) – IDW’s ground-breaking, multi-universe event returns in January with INFESTATION 2. As with the blockbuster original, this epic invasion will spread throughout the IDW-verse and into many fan-favorite titles. With INFESTATION 2, tentacled Lovecraftian “Old Ones” reach across time and space and threaten to destroy everyone everywhere and everywhen.

“Last year, we were just figuring out how to do a monstrous event for the first time,” said Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer/Editor-in-Chief. “This year, we’re going to build on the monstrous part, both in terms of story, titles affected and the threat itself. So people can expect a bigger event here, with lots of legs. Well, tentacles, anyway. We’ve got great creators and a very exciting plan to give people more of what they liked the first time, with some crazy twists and new properties affected, too.”

Coming in January, the kick off issue, INFESTATION 2 #1, will be written by best-selling novelist and comic-book writer Duane Swierczynski and feature art by INFESTATION/INFESTATION: OUTBREAK artist David Messina. This gripping issue sets the stage for Lovecraft’s “Old Ones” to break through time and space and invade many titles, including TRANSFORMERS, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, and a special fifth-week one-shot, INFESTATION: TEAM-UP, featuring Bat Boy and GROOM LAKE’s grey alien Archibald in February. Then in March, the Infestation spreads even further, infecting TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES and G.I. JOE. In April, vampires battle zombies in 30 DAYS OF NIGHT: INFESTATION, followed by the stunning closing issue, INFESTATION 2 #2.

Joining Swierczynski and Messina on covers for INFESTATION 2 #1 and #2 will be Alex Garner and Livio Ramondelli. INFESTATION 2 #1 will also feature unique temporary tattoos. 

In February, writer Chuck Dixon and artist Guido Guidi will return to the often-requested “Hearts of Steel” timeline for the bi-weekly INFESTATION 2: TRANSFORMERS #1 and #2. Plus, Dungeons & Dragons novelist Paul Krill will introduce a brand-new campaign setting to IDW with INFESTATION 2: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: EBERRON #1 and #2. INFESTATION 2: TEAM-UP will be written by Chris Ryall and illustrated by his WEEKLY WORLD NEWS partner Alan Robinson, and feature covers by Eric Powell and The Simpsons’s Bill Morrison.

In March, Tristan Jones and Mark Torres pair up for INFESTATION 2: TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #1 and #2, while Mike Raicht and Valentine de Landro present INFESTATION 2: G.I. JOE #1 and #2. INFESTATION 2 architect Duane Swierczynski and artist Stuart Sayger will explore the effect of Lovecraft demons on vampires in the INFESTATION 2: 30 DAYS OF NIGHT one-shot.

As a special bonus for fans, every issue of the INFESTATION 2 event will feature a connected cover by artist Livio Ramondelli, and IDW will be producing special incentive temporary tattoos with each issue, too.

Stay tuned to IDWPublishing.com as more creative teams for this epic crossover event are announced. Plus, readers can get a sneak peek at INFESTATION 2 by asking their local retailer about the INFESTATION 2 ashcan, coming in late November and featuring interviews, artwork and information about this momentous event.


INFESTATION 2 #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) will be available in stores on January 25, 2012.

INFESTATION 2: TRANSFORMERS #1 and #2 will be in stores on February 1 and 15, 2012, respectively.

INFESTATION 2: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: EBERRON #1 and #2 will be in stores on February 8 and 22, 2012, respectively.

INFESTATION 2: TEAM-UP will be in stores on February 29, 2012.

INFESTATION 2: TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #1 and #2 will be in stores on March 7 and 21, 2012, respectively.

INFESTATION 2: G.I. JOE #1 and #2 will be in stores on March 14 and 28, 2012, respectively.

INFESTATION 2: 30 DAYS OF NIGHT will be in stores on April 4, 2012.

INFESTATION 2 #2 will be available in stores on April 11, 2012.


Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books.


About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.

ComiXology Adds Complete IDW library to Comics App for Apple iOS, Android and the Web
Over 1,000 IDW Comics to be added to the catalog, with top titles including TRANSFORMERS, Star Trek, G.I. JOE, Doctor Who and True Blood

New York, NY 10/12/11 – ComiXology and IDW Publishing today announced a new partnership to bring the complete IDW library to comiXology customers. Through this strategic undertaking, comics fans everywhere will now be able to experience every IDW digital comic across all comiXology’s platforms — iOS, Android and the Web!

“It’s personally very exciting to have IDW join the comiXology platform whole-heartedly,” said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “As one of the largest and most esteemed comic publishers in the industry, IDW has an incredible range of content. From G.I. JOE to TRANSFORMERS to THE HUNTER and LOCKE & KEY, their content looks great on comiXology.”

Starting today, the entire TRANSFORMERS comic line will be available immediately on all comiXology platforms and will range in price from $.99 to $1.99. All TRANSFORMERS comics previously sold only through comiXology’s Android or online store will sync across all devices and platforms supported by comiXology. Additionally, several new titles will also be available starting today, including the first issue from IDW’s new STAR TREK ongoing series, and issues from the company’s G.I. JOE, LOCKE & KEY and TRUE BLOOD series.

“ComiXology customers have asked for IDW to be part of the Comics by comiXology lineup for some time, and we’re thrilled to bring our catalog to those readers,” stated Jeff Webber, IDW’s Director of ePublishing. “We’ve always been impressed with comiXology’s strength in offering comics across multiple platforms, including Apple iOS, Android and the Web. David and his team have put together an awesome offering. ComiXology has established a huge audience — I know we’re going to make a lot of IDW fans happy this week.”

All comiXology platforms feature the company’s Guided View™ Technology, enabling the reader to transition smoothly between different comic panels, mimicking the reading experience of a traditional print comic book. All purchases of IDW comics through the Comics by comiXology App whether on Apple® iOS devices or Android sync to all devices and the web at comics.comixology.com.

The complete list of comics coming to the Comics by comiXology app are below:

• TRANSFORMERS – over 200 issues
• STAR TREK Ongoing 1
• G.I. JOE Ongoing 1-6
• ROCKETEER Adventures 1-2
• LOCKE & KEY Clockworks 1-2
• PARKER: The Hunter
• PARKER: The Outfit
• TRUE BLOOD Vol 1 1-6
• JERICHO Season 3 4-6

About comiXology
Since 2007 comiXology has been developing the technological infrastructure to bring comics into the digital mainstream and expose new audiences to the rich history and culture of the industry. Through partnerships with top comic book publishers including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, IDW Publishing, Archaia Entertainment, BOOM! Studios, Dynamite Entertainment and Image Comics as well as their own mobile and web apps which hosts over 14,000 digital titles, comiXology has become a leader in digital comic book proliferation. Also focused on creating strong ties with retail stores through its technology solutions, comiXology continues to transform the previously fragmented comic ecosystem into a vibrant and cohesive marketplace.

About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.

IDW and Charlie Foxtrot Entertainment Launch
Code Word: Geronimo Graphic Novel 

In-depth retelling of the SEAL Team 6 raid on Osama Bin Laden’s compound

“Engrossing” – the Associated Press

Now available in stores
 

San Diego, CA (October 12, 2011)—IDW Publishing and Charlie Foxtrot Entertainment have the honor of launching CODE WORD: GERONIMO, an original graphic novel illustrating the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound by SEAL Team 6 on May 1, 2011. Expertly written by military insider Captain Dale Dye (USMC, Ret.) and Dr. Julia Dye, Ph.D., CODE WORD: GERONIMO offers the amazing, moment-by-moment inside story of the clandestine raid that rid the world of this terrorist mastermind.

“We thought the graphic novel just might be the best early venue to keep young people's attention focused on this outstanding mission,” said Dye. “Julia and I wanted to find a way to shine some well-deserved light on the men and women in both the intelligence and special operations communities that worked so hard to make it happen.”

This historic tribute details the bravery and valor of SEAL Team 6 as it descends into Abbottabad, Pakistan and achieves the near impossible. Joining the Dyes to bring this incredible graphic novel to life are artists Gerry Kissell (The A-Team: War Stories, Iron Sky) and Amin Amat (Buckaroo Banzai, Iron Sky). John M. Del Vecchio, decorated Vietnam veteran and best-selling author of the The 13th Valley, also provides afterword material. A portion of the proceeds from CODE WORD: GERONIMO will be donated to the American Veterans Center, a charity supporting military veterans.

“I couldn't be more ecstatic to have Code Word: Geronimo out to stores and in readers’ hands,” said editor Tom Waltz. “It's been an incredible journey with this graphic novel -- from its initial conception to its release -- and I've been proud to be a part of the process every step of the way, to include the opportunity now to share it with the rest of the world. I truly believe this is a special book.”

Following an exceptional career in the United States Marine Corps, Captain Dye is now best known as the military advisor to Hollywood for his work on over seventy films, from Platoon to Saving Private Ryan, and Band Of Brothers to The Pacific. Captain Dye is also the acclaimed author of many novels, including Outrage and Laos File.


CODE WORD: GERONIMO ($15.99, hardcover, full color, 88 pages) is now available in comic and book stores throughout.  ISBN: 978-1-61377-097-9

Find out more at www.CodeWordGeronimo.com.


About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Toho’s Godzilla; and comics and trade collections based on novels by worldwide bestselling author, James Patterson. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints; Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s original horror series, 30 Days of Night, was launched as a major motion picture in October 2007 by Sony Pictures and was the #1 film in its first week of release. More information about the company can be found at IDWPublishing.com.


About Charlie Foxtrot Entertainment
Charlie Foxtrot Entertainment, LLC (CFE) is a military-based entertainment company that is “inspired by heroes.” It is engaged in the business of financing, producing and licensing, movies, documentaries, books, graphic novels, video games, music and merchandise--from its library of currently owned, and to-be-acquired, military oriented intellectual properties. CFE’s best-selling books and critically-acclaimed graphic novels provide a base for the development of its film and TV productions. The company takes great pride in the fact that all of its members are veterans of the U.S military—this provides CFE with a unique and authentic insight few others can achieve. More information about the company and its principals can be found at www.charliefoxtrotfilms.com.

FEEL EVEN BETTER LATER

Hickman One-Shot Delayed

Berkeley, CA – 12 October 2011 -- Jonathan Hickman's FEEL BETTER NOW, originally solicited as a $3.99, 40-page one-shot is being delayed and retooled for a 2012 release as an original graphic novel.

"I regret to inform everyone that FEEL BETTER NOW will not be shipping on schedule," said Hickman. "Unfortunately, during the course of creating this story, it got bigger. Far beyond the 40 pages we had allocated for the book, and, as a result, I have decided to give the story the scope I feel it deserves. 

"Right now, we think the best thing to do is pull it from Diamond and re-solicit the book at a later date when we can firm up the final price point, page count and delivery date. I apologize for the inconvenience, but sometimes these things take on a life of their own and FEEL BETTER NOW is a story that deserves a full canvas."

"This is one of those cases where the material really will benefit from a little more time," explained Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson. "Simply put, we could have put the book out as planned, but Jonathan wouldn't have been satisfied with it. He knew there was more story to mine here and felt the best way to do that was to expand upon it. Instead of just shipping the book late, everyone involved felt the best way forward was to give Jonathan as much time as he needed to tell the story he wants to tell and re-solicit when it's ready. I think anyone familiar with Jonathan's understands it will be worth the wait."

Hickman added: "I would also like to note that THE NIGHTLY NEWS ANNIVERSARY EDITION HC and THE RED WING TP will still ship as scheduled, and that work has already begun on next year's ongoing series SECRET and THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS. Both myself and Image Comics are extremely excited regarding our plans for the next 12 months."

THE NIGHTLY NEWS ANNIVERSARY EDITION HC (SEP110423, ISBN: 9978-1-60706-4619), a 300-page full-color hardcover graphic novel for $34.99, will be on sale in stores November 16. THE RED WING TP (OCT110470), a 140-page full-color trade paperback for $14.99, will be on sale in stores December 14.

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.