Wednesday, August 11, 2010

AMC PICKS UP NEXT ORIGINAL SERIES

Untitled Project from Veena Sud,
Formerly Known As The Killing

Mireille Enos (Big Love) to Star

New York, NY August 11, 2010 - AMC announced today a full series order for the pilot that was formerly known as The Killing, from writer and executive producer Veena Sud (Cold Case). Sud has signed on to also serve as the showrunner for the series, which is currently untitled. Set in Seattle, the series is based on the wildly successful Danish television series Forbrydelsen and tells the story of the murder of a young girl and the subsequent police investigation. Produced by Fox Television Studios, it is executive produced by Mikkel Bondesen (Burn Notice) for Fuse Entertainment. Fuses Kristen Campo co-produces. AMC first announced the pilot order in January 2010 with Patty Jenkins (Monster) directing the pilot. Production on the series begins this fall in Vancouver and season one consists of 13, one-hour episodes. The series is slated to premiere in 2011 on AMC.
Todays announcement marks the fifth original series greenlight for AMC. The first four were Mad Men, Breaking Bad, Rubicon and The Walking Dead.

We are thrilled to be moving forward with this stunning piece of television. It is a crime drama, but it is also a gripping character based story that pulls you in and doesn't let go. The storytelling is completely compelling, and the show is visually breathtaking. Veena, Patty, Fuse, FTVS and the cast did a phenomenal job of bringing it to life. said Joel Stillerman, AMCs senior vice president of original programming, production and digital content.

"Ever since Mikkel Bondesen brought us this remarkable Danish mini-series, we were determined to bring it to American television, said David Madden, Executive Vice President, Fox Television Studios. "We are so proud to be working with AMC and our extraordinary cast on this very special series."

As Sarah, Mireille Enos (Big Love) portrays the lead homicide detective that investigates the death of Rosie Larsen. Other previously announced castings include: Billy Campbell (Once and Again, Enough) as Darren Richmond, Seattles City Council President, running for Mayor; Michelle Forbes (True Blood) as Mitch Larsen, the victims mother; Joel Kinnaman (Snabba Cash) as Stephen Holder, an ex-narc cop who joins the homicide division in the investigation to find Rosie Larsens killer; and Brent Sexton (W., In the Valley of Elah) as Stan Larsen, the victims father.

The series ties together three distinct stories around a single murder including the detectives assigned to the case, the victims grieving family and the suspects. The story also explores local politics as it follows politicians connected to the case. As it unfolds, it becomes clear that there are no accidents; everyone has a secret, and while the characters think theyve moved on, their past isnt done with them.

AMCs Joel Stillerman, senior vice president of original programming, production and digital content and Susie Fitzgerald, senior vice president of scripted development and current programming, oversee development and production for the network.

AMC, which recently received 26 Emmy nominations, is the only network in television history to win three consecutive Golden Globe awards for best dramatic series for Mad Men (2008, 2009, 2010). Now in its fourth season, the series is garnering its highest ratings to date. The first two seasons of Breaking Bad awarded the outstanding lead actor Emmy award to Bryan Cranston for his portrayal of lead character Walt White. Rubicon, a conspiracy thriller starring James Badge Dale (HBOs The Pacific), premiered August 1st. The Walking Dead premieres in October.

About AMC
AMC reigns as the only network to ever win the Golden Globe® Award for Best Television Series - Drama three years in a row and the only basic cable network to win back-to-back Primetime Emmy® Awards for Outstanding Drama Series. Whether commemorating favorite films from every genre and decade from the most comprehensive library or creating acclaimed original productions, the AMC experience is an uncompromising celebration of great stories. AMC's original stories include the Emmy® Award-winning dramas Mad Men and Breaking Bad, and insightful non-scripted programming such as AMC News. AMC further demonstrates its commitment to the art of storytelling with curated movie franchises like AMC Hollywood Icon and AMC Complete Collection. Available in more than 95 million homes (Source: Nielsen Media Research), AMC is a subsidiary of Rainbow Media Holdings LLC, which includes sister networks IFC, Sundance Channel, WE tv and Wedding Central. AMC is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand and mobile. AMC: Story Matters HereSM.
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GLORIOUS MORNING
Image Comics announces same-day sellout of MORNING GLORIES #1 at distribution level

Berkeley, CA - 11 August 2010 - Image Comics proudly announces the distribution-level sellout of the first issue of Nick Spencer's MORNING GLORIES, drawn by Joe Eisma with covers by Rodin Esquejo. The second printing of the book Newsarama calls "a trippy, foreboding read that is definitely something unique on the stands" will be available September 1.

"I feel so lucky that MORNING GLORIES has gotten such stupendous support," exclaims Spencer. "Joe and Rodin are doing a bang up job with the art and covers, and the response is beyond compare. I hope that readers stick with the series -- I promise an abundance of electrifying twists and turns!"

MORNING GLORIES: Morning Glory Academy is one of the most prestigious prep schools in the country. But behind its hallowed doors, something sinister and deadly lurks. When six brilliant but troubled new students arrive, they find themselves trapped and desperately seeking answers in a place where nothing is what it seems to be!

MORNING GLORIES #1 Second Printing, a 44-page full-color comic book for $3.99, will be available September 1, 2010.

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.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

SUPERMAN/SHAZAM!

THE RETURN OF BLACK ADAM ANCHORS DC SHOWCASE

Original Shorts COLLECTION



THE SPECTRE, JONAH HEX, GREEN ARROW INCLUDED ON COMPILATION DUE NOV. 9 FROM warner home video





BURBANK, CA (August 10, 2010) – Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment, Warner Bros. Animation and Warner Home Video have expanded the realm of superhero storytelling beyond the popular DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 Movies with the introduction of the DC Showcase, a series of animated shorts featuring characters from the celebrated DC Comics vault. On November 9, 2010, Warner Home Video will distribute the DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection, the first quartet of animated adventures featuring the never-before-seen Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam, as a Special Edition Blu-Ray™ for $29.99 (SRP) and single disc DVD for $19.98 (SRP).The DC Showcase will also be available OnDemand and for Download.



DC Showcase animated shorts initially appeared as special bonus content on the 2010 slate of DC Universe Animated Original Movies. The 10- to 12-minute films include The Spectre, Jonah Hex and Green Arrow. All three titles will be presented in extended formats along with the first-ever release of Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam.



In Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam, Clark Kent’s latest interview subject is street kid Billy Batson. What Clark doesn’t know is that Billy is more than a feisty kid with a lot of heart – he has been chosen by an ancient wizard to represent the good of man as the World’s Mightiest Mortal just by invoking the name of the wizard, "Shazam!" Billy's powers come none-too-soon, as he also discovers he's being pursued by a centuries' old, murderous villain, Black Adam – a foe so powerful, even Superman can’t stop him alone. The all-star cast of Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam is led by Jerry O’Connell (Crossing Jordan) as Captain Marvel, George Newbern reprising his Justice League role as Superman, Arnold Vosloo (The Mummy) as Black Adam and two-time Emmy Award® winner James Garner (8 Simple Rules) as The Wizard.



Bruce Timm (Superman Doomsday) is executive producer and Joaquim Dos Santos (Justice League, Avatar: The Last Airbender) is director of the first series of DC Showcase titles. Michael Jelenic (Wonder Woman) wrote the 22-minute script.



Other shorts included on the DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection:



The Spectre – A detective story with an ethereal twist featuring an otherworldly character. The short is written by Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), and the voice cast includes Gary Cole (Entourage) and Alyssa Milano (Charmed).



Jonah Hex – The tough-as-nails bounty hunter always gets his man - until someone else gets to him first - in this case a murderous madam who wants to steal more than just his bounty from Jonah Hex. Based on a story from the award-winning Jonah Hex comic series, and scripted by world-renowned author Joe Lansdale. The voice cast is led by Thomas Jane (Hung), Linda Hamilton (The Terminator), Michelle Trachtenberg (Mercy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Michael Rooker (Days of Thunder).



Green Arrow – At the Star City International Airport to pick up his girlfriend, Oliver Queen is forced into action as Green Arrow to protect the 10-year-old Princess of Vlatava from his old nemesis Merlyn the Magnificent and the League of Assassins. Greg Weisman (Young Justice) pens this action-packed tale, which features the voices of Neal McDonough (Desperate Housewives) as the title character and Malcolm McDowell (Entourage) as his foe.



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“The DC Showcase once again combines the respective creative talents of DC Comics, Warner Premiere, Warner Bros. Animation and Warner Home Video to provide fans with

vivid, new experiences alongside characters from within the vast resources of DC Comics,” said Matt Bierman, Senior Vice President Production, Warner Premiere.



“The DC Showcase allows us to expand the DC Universe with short stories based on intriguing characters – from a 1940s comics sensation like The Spectre to a creation of the 1970s like Jonah Hex – just begging to be presented to a very worthy fan base,” said Geoff Johns, Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment.



“Whereas DC Universe films have given fans the broad strokes of superhero entertainment, we know devout comics fans will enjoy seeing the characters in the DC Showcase come to animated life – some for the very first time – and we believe this presentation will open a window for new viewers to experience these unique, textured heroes and villains,” said Amit Desai, WHV Vice President of Family, Animation & Sports Marketing.



DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection 1-Disc Special Edition DVD features more than 1 hour of exciting extra content, including:

· Four animation shorts (est. 62 min)

· Four additional bonus TV series episodes handpicked by Bruce Timm





DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection Blu-Ray™ features more than 2 1/2 hours of exciting extra content, including:

· Four animation shorts (est. 62 min)

· Commentaries by renowned writers Steve Niles, Joe Lansdale, Greg Weisman and Michael Jelenic

· Four additional bonus TV series episodes handpicked by Bruce Timm

· Digital copy online of the shorts



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About Warner Premiere:

Warner Premiere is Warner Bros. Entertainment’s direct-to-consumer production company focused on the development, production and marketing of feature-length content, as well as short form digital content for the growing home entertainment market. Warner Premiere is committed to being at the creative forefront in the evolution of quality product in the direct-to-DVD business and the digital space, creating material that exemplifies the commitment to story, production and brand equity for which Warner Bros. is known.



About Warner Home Video:

With operations in 90 international territories Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, commands the largest distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. Warner Home Video's film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Home Video and New Line Home Entertainment.



About DC Entertainment:

DC Entertainment, home to such iconic DC Comics properties as Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Flash, MAD Magazine, and Fables, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating across Warner Bros. and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its superheroic characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, and interactive games. Publishing over 1,000 comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Comics is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world.



DC SUPER HEROES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.

(s10)



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About Warner Bros. Animation:

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) has been producing award-winning original animation since 1930, when it released its first cartoon, “Sinkin' in the Bathtub.” Since then, WBA’s characters have set the standard for innovative, quality animation. Producing for network and cable television, online, home entertainment and feature films both domestically and internationally, WBA is highly respected for its creative and technical excellence, as well as for maintaining the studio’s rich cartoon heritage. WBA also oversees the creative use and production of animated programming based on classic cartoon characters from the Hanna-Barbera and DC Comics libraries. WBA is one of the most-honored animation studios in history.
Pocket God Digital Volcano Erupts
Pocket God digital comic app explodes to the top

(San Diego, CA – August 10, 2010) Ape Entertainment announced today that their IPhone Comic book app for the Pocket God property is currently ranked in the top twenty five of all apps in the paid comic book category. The app exploded after release on August 3rd 2010 and is still gaining popularity. iVerse Media, the digital distributor for Ape Entertainment, has seen record sales within the first week of releasing the Pocket God app, which currently contains one comic book issue and has out grossed all paid comic book apps, including apps that often contain hundreds of comic book titles. Fan support will likely transfer to the print version as many look forward to finally having a hard copy of the story they fell in love with when first playing the game. The print version of the comic will be available in stores this September and will include additional content not found in the app. The second issue will be released digitally the end of September and in print before the end of the year and there will be free additional downloadable content between releases.

“I just can’t say enough good things about Michael Murphey and his team at iVerse Media. They have been fantastic to work with,” remarked Ape Entertainment CEO David Hedgecock. Head of iVerse Media, Michael Murphey, gushed “I credit everyone involved for its success. We have seen extreme support from everyone involved at all levels from creative to technological. This is the fastest rising paid comic book app launch we have ever seen. It has already surpassed twenty five thousand downloads in its first week of release and is still going strong.”

To download the digital comic go to http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pocket-god-comics/id380752345?mt=8
To join Ape Comics mailing list go to http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1103318109567&p=oi
To see more about the Kizoic comic line visit www. kizoic.com

About Bolt Creative: Bolt Creative is a San Francisco-based developer creating original iPhone applications and games, including 2009’s blockbuster iPhone game Pocket God. Bolt Creative’s goal is to create games that are not only fun to play, but fun to develop and make them laugh. For more information, please visit www.boltcreative.com.

About iVerse Media LLC: iVerse Media, LLC is a digital distributor of comic books for mobile platforms. Established in 2008, iVerse has quickly emerged as an innovator and leader in the mobile publishing field. Partnering with high profile brands like Archie Comics, and leading industry publishers like IDW Publishing (”Star Trek”), Ape Entertainment (”Super Human Resources”), and many more have made it possible for iVerse to surpass 2.5 million downloads since its’ inception.

About Ape Entertainment: Founded in 2003, Ape Entertainment is the brainchild of lifelong comic book devotees David Hedgecock, and Brent E Erwin. Home to such popular titles as GO-GO GORILLA AND THE JUNGLE CREW, SUPERHUMAN RESOURCES, BLACK COAT, ATHENA VOLTAIRE, and THE TROUBLE WITH KATIE ROGERS, it is also the North American publisher for DreamWorks Animation licensed properties SHREK, THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR, and Kung Fu Panda.
Norman PhartEphant® Saves The World

Proceeds from Phartephant sales go to charity

(August 10, 2010, New York, NY) Fierce Fun Toys, LLC announced that part of their proceeds go directly to world changing aid organizations Half the Skyand Smile Train. Fierce Fun Toys, LLC was founded on a hope to create some silly giggles and fun among the users of our products. We also greatly believe in a world of cultural diversity, cultural inclusion and the value of raising children that believe in a culturally inclusive world. This sentiment we believe is embedded in our product line. While we may hope to change the world, we recognize and support those amazing institutions that also hope to create a better world for children. At Fierce Fun Toys, LLC know we can’t save everyone but that shouldn’t stop us from trying to help someone. We applaud those organizations that are changing lives, affecting change, and in turn changin g the world.

Fierce Fun Toys, LLC was founded to create not your average toy, and clearly not you’re your average story. Our lead characters include: Norman PhartEphant® is an African elephant adopted by a U.S. zoo and the change in diet causes gastric distress; Harry HiccersTM, has relocated with his family and has food related issues, and; Ben KachooTM who suffers allergies, but that doesn’t stop his fun. Deep issues presented in a silly manner.

As Norman PhartEphant celebrates his first anniversary of our first sales supported donations, we say thank you to our customers for supporting our products, but more importantly on supporting our desire to contribute in one small way to others that are doing the heavy lifting in trying to create a better future.

About the people whose efforts we salute:

The Smile Train – An amazing organization that is giving a new life hope to children around the world that are born with cleft lip and/or cleft palette and do not have the financial/social means to seek treatment independently. See more information about The Smile Train at http://www.smiletrain.org

Half the Sky – An amazing organization that provides individual nurture and stimulation for babies living in an orphanage environment, innovative preschools and grade schools with the orphanages, as well as foster homes for children whose special needs will keep them from being adopted. See more information about Half the Sky at http://www.halfthesky.org/.

About Fierce Fun Toys, LLC:

Fierce Fun Toys, LLC is a philanthropic for-profit company with a portion of sales supporting children's charities. To learn more of about the charities, visit www.PhartEphant.com.

For additional information on the Norman PhartEphant® or Fierce Fun Toys, LLC, retail and wholesale information, and a list of current retailers, please visit http://www.PhartEphant.com
New Documentary Asks: Has the Video Game Industry Learned
its Lesson?

Critically-Acclaimed Video Series Game Theory Examines State of the Business
at www.GameTheoryOnline.com

"Great stuff... this needed to be done."
-Denis Dyack, Founder, Silicon Knights

SEATTLE, WA (August 10, 2010) - Game Industry TV™ today announced the launch of episode two of celebrated video game show "Game Theory with Scott Steinberg™," which asks whether or not the gaming industry has really learned its lesson in the face of continued sales declines and studio closures. Titled "Time for a Reality Check," the documentary, available now at www.gametheoryonline.com, explores whether developers and publishers like Activision, UbiSoft and Electronic Arts are really adapting fast enough to survive in the face of growing competition from social networks, downloadable titles and free online games.

Taking a closer look at the key issues impacting the video game business, including changing player habits, growing economic concerns and the rise of mobile and online platforms, it explores the continuing shift to digital distribution and monumental changes that have followed. Featuring commentary by Electronic Arts founder Trip Hawkins, The Sims creator Will Wright, Gaikai CEO David Perry and other noted industry leaders, the video reveals the extent of the historic upheavals impacting the gaming business, and what it takes to evolve in their wake.

The second in a multi-part series on both the state, and utter reinvention, of the video game industry, it offers the most candid account of what's happening behind the scenes today from those who know best - the field's biggest names.

For more information, please visit http://www.GameTheoryOnline.com

About Game Industry TV
Game Industry TV (www.gameindustrytv.com) is a full-service video production company and online video network featuring the culture, companies and leading personalities behind the $20 billion video games industry. Taking viewers behind the scenes of this dynamic business, it puts a public face on one of the world's most exciting entertainment fields.
THE ENTIRE "LOST" THE OFFICIAL SHOW AUCTION CATALOG NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE-AUCTION TO TAKE PLACE LIVE FROM BARKER HANGAR IN SANTA MONICA, CA AUGUST 21 AND 22, 2010

Profiles in History, in Partnership with ABC Studios, Will Offer Fans and Collectors Worldwide over 1,000 Lots of Props, Costumes and Set Pieces From the Emmy Award-winning Television Series, Spanning All Six Seasons, including Hurley's Camaro, the DHARMA VAN and DHARMA Jeep; Full Sections of the Oceanic Flight 815 Wreckage, DHARMA Food and More

Calabasas, CA, August 9, 2010 - Profiles in History, the world's largest auctioneer of Hollywood memorabilia, in partnership with ABC Studios, has made available the entire "LOST" THE OFFICIAL SHOW AUCTION CATALOG-over 1,000 lots of props, costumes and set pieces from all six seasons of the hit ABC / Disney television series, LOST. The much anticipated auction will take place live from Barker Hangar in the Santa Monica Airport in Santa Monica, CA on Saturday, August 21 and Sunday, August 22, 2010. Worldwide bidding begins at 1pm PDT both days. Bids can be placed in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet by visiting HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" www.profilesinhistory.com or HYPERLINK "http://www.liveauctioneers.com/" \o "http://www.liveauctioneers.com/" HYPERLINK "http://www.liveauctioneers.com" \o "http://www.liveauctioneers.com/" www.liveauctioneers.com.

"Profiles in History is thrilled to be holding the LOST Auction. LOST is one of the most iconic TV shows ever created, and we are working in conjunction with ABC to offer fans from around the world an opportunity to own a memento of this amazing show. This is a once in a lifetime auction event that will celebrate one of the most beloved shows in television history," said Joe Maddalena, President of Profiles in History.

Highlights include:

--Hurley's Camaro

--DHARMA Van

--DHARMA Jeep

--Large section of Oceanic Flight 815 wreckage

--Charlie's "DS" ring

--Rousseau's distressed music box
--Dogen's hour glass from the Temple
--Jack's Halliburton case
--Sawyer's improvised reading glasses from Season One
--Polar bear collar with DHARMA Hydra station insignia
--Locke's hero wheelchair
--Pearl station printer with "System Failure" printout
--Swan station turntable
--Man in Black's ancient dagger
--Two crates with six Virgin Mary statues
--Ben's orders to commute Juliet's execution
--Dial mechanism and mirror array from the Lighthouse
--Row of Oceanic Airlines plane seats

--Desmond's fail-safe key with "Joe Inman" dog tag

--Jin's wedding ring

--Swan station Hatch door

--Eko's signature staff with Bible scripture carvings

--Swan station computer-an Apple-II Plus system running an Apple-III monitor, with a Disk II floppy drive, each featuring DHARMA logo

--Daniel Faraday's journal with extensive handwritten notes from his time travel experiments

--Galaga submarine conning tower and deck-a large section of the Galaga DHARMA submarine incorporating the conning tower and deck portion seen throughout Season Five when the submarine is docked. Measures approx. 25 ft. long x 120 in. tall

--Man in Black's scale and other belongings from his cliffside cave

--Locke's Master Bowie knife with studio blood stains

--Nuclear bomb core detonated in Season Five finale

--Jacob's primary tapestry that he wove in his chamber inside the pedestal of the statue of Taweret during his many years on the Island. Measures 75 in. x 102 in

--Kate's toy airplane from Season One

-- Hurley's winning Mega Lotto Jackpot ticket

-- Charlie's acoustic guitar

-- Huge assortment of DHARMA-branded foods

-- Sawyer's letter to the man who murdered his parents

For more information and to download the free LOST: The Official Show Auction catalog, please visit http://www.profilesinhistory.com/lost-the-auction.html.


About Profiles in History:

Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the nation's leading dealer in guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage signed photographs and manuscripts. Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare collectibles. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.

Prior Profiles in History Hollywood auctions highlights include the "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000); a full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750); Marilyn Monroe's "Diamonds" dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes ($356,500); a King Kong six-sheet movie poster ($345,000); the Command Chair from the "U.S.S. Enterprise" ($304,750); the original "Robot" from Lost in Space ($264,500); Luke Skywalker's lightsaber ($240,000); Margaret Hamilton's "Wicked Witch" hat from The Wizard of Oz ($230,000); the Black Beauty car from The Green Hornet ($192,000); George Reeves' Superman costume from The Adventures of Superman ($126,500); the H.R. Giger designed Alien creature suit from Alien ($126,500); a full-scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park ($126,500), the Leaping Alien Warrior figure from Aliens ($126,500), Christopher Reeve's 'Superman' costume from Superman: The Movie ($115,000), C-3PO's helmet ($120,000), The Wizard of Oz 'Winkie' Guard Costume ($115,000); a "Ming the Merciless" cape from Flash Gordon ($115,000) and the Hydraulic screen-used Velociraptor from The Lost World: Jurassic Park II ($115,000).

Wednesday, August 04, 2010

Mark Waid to Keynote 2010 Harvey Awards!
Tickets Now Available!
Final Ballots Due by Saturday, Aug. 7!

Baltimore, Maryland - August 4, 2010 - The Harvey Awards dinner and presentation ceremony, featuring emcee Scott Kurtz and Keynote speaker Mark Waid, will be held on Saturday, August 28th at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore.

Harvey Awards tickets are on sale now. Tickets to the event, which includes full cocktail hour (cash bar), full service dinner, awards ceremony, and gift bag are now available for $100. Tickets are available by calling Cards, Comics & Collectibles in Reisterstown, Maryland at (410) 526-7410. Major Credit Cards will be accepted for payment. Dinner tickets must be purchased by Wednesday, August 25th and will not be available at the door.

The Harveys, named after the legendary MAD Magazine founding editor and master storyteller Harvey Kurtzman, recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards both nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals.Harvey Award Recipient Logo

Guests for dinner and the awards ceremony will enjoy a full banquet dinner and a lively show hosted once again by Scott Kurtz as our Master of Ceremonies. All 22 Harvey Awards will be announced, as well the Keynote Presentation by Mark Waid.

Over the past 25 years, Mark Waid has been involved in every aspect of comics publishing, from writing to editing to production to retail--everything short of inserting the staples in the actual comic books. He has written some of the best-selling American graphic novels of all time, including KINGDOM COME with artist and co-plotter Alex Ross, and currently serves as the Chief Creative Officer for BOOM! Studios Comics in Los Angeles.

"I'm humbled and intimidated to be asked to give this year's keynote address at the Harveys," said Waid. "I may have been chosen because, given my long history and my current position, I have a unique perspective on the accomplishments this medium has made and the challenges it still faces. Either that, or the organizers have laid bets on whether or not I'm capable of talking about anything but myself for more than two minutes at a stretch. We'll see."

Scott Kurtz, returning Master of Ceremonies, quipped: "Last year, I gambled that the comics industry was willing to laugh at itself and MCed the Harveys like they were a roast. The experience lead to my working with Neal Adams by year's end. My hope this year is that I can angle a Kurtz/Waid/Sale team up. So it's gloves off for sure."

Continuing the guest-pleasing promotion from years past, a gift bag will be available to all dinner guests. The first 250 attendees will receive a gift bag containing a variety of gifts from event sponsors, which will named soon! Without these sponsors, the event would not be possible and the Baltimore Comic-Con Staff expresses their gratitude. Look to our website for details as they become available.

For those who wish to attend the ceremony only, tickets are available for $15, or free for those with a two-day pass to the convention. The hall will be opened for those ticket holders at approximately 9:15pm. Attendees who purchase a ceremony-only ticket are not eligible to receive the gift bag. The two day convention tickets may be purchased through Ticketmaster, accessible from http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/index.php/tickets/. Harvey Ceremony tickets may be purchased via phone at 410-526-7410.

Voting professionals, please remember to submit your ballots by Saturday, August 7, 2010! For ballots and voting instructions, please see our website, http://www.harveyawards.org/.

About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 11th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 4 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.
BOOM! STUDIOS & EVIL INK COMICS
BRING YOU
THE AMORY WARS: ULTIMATE EDITION
HARDCOVER
AUGUST 4, 2010

THE ENTIRE SECOND STAGE TURBINE BLADE SAGA
COLLECTED IN ONE ULTIMATE EDITION!


August 4th – Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios & Evil Ink Comics are proud to announce the release of THE AMORY WARS: ULTIMATE EDITION, bringing you the entirety of the epic original saga, THE SECOND STAGE TURBINE BLADE in one stunning hardcover. Written and conceived by accomplished musician and writer, Claudio Sanchez, the series is based on the album of the same name by Sanchez’s hugely successful band Coheed & Cambria. THE AMORY WARS: ULTIMATE EDITION is a must-have for fans and for the first time, a place for the uninitiated to experience the entire story in one book.

Collected in 350 pages of science-fiction, including:

All 10 issues of The Second Stage Turbine Blade,
(originally released through 12 Gauge Comics and Image Comics).
Both original rare-out-of-print “The Bag On Line Adventures” issues.
Bonus story, “33”
All 12 Tony Moore covers.
+ never-before-seen bonus material!

THE SECOND STAGE TURBINE BLADE takes place amidst a star-spanning collection of 78 planets known as Heaven’s Fence, held in place and linked together by the mysterious and seemingly omnipotent blue energy known as The Keywork.

Hard-working Coheed and Cambria Kilgannon live on one of these planets, but their suburban existence is ripped apart when General Mayo Deftinwolf enters their lives and reveals the ultimate truth: Coheed and Cambria were not born, but built as weapons for a privately developed anti-terrorist unit. Even worse, they have been implanted with a virus which has been genetically passed onto their children, mutating into a deadly epidemic aimed to disrupt the bonds between planets and destroy Heaven's Fence. Coheed and Cambria are forced to decide what is more precious, their family or civilization itself.

THE AMORY WARS is the story behind Claudio Sanchez’s lyrics from the album of the same name, which fans have tried to unlock the true course of events encrypted in the lyrics since the band first debuted.

THE AMORY WARS ULTIMATE EDITION hardcover hits shelves today, August 4, 2010 and is collected in a single 350 page hard bound edition with several pages of bonus material printed only in the ULTIMATE EDITION. THE AMORY WARS ULTIMATE EDITION hardcover has a price $29.99 and carries a Diamond code of MAR100784 , and an ISBN13: 9781608860357.

About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (www.boom-studios.com) 2009 "Best Publisher" of the year, generates a wide-ranging catalog of multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-nominated comic books and graphic novels featuring some of the industry’s top talent, including Philip K. Dick's DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?, 20th Century Fox's 28 DAYS LATER and DIE HARD, The Henson Company's FARSCAPE, and the original Mark Waid series IRREDEEMABLE. This fall sees BOOM! teaming up with the legendary Stan Lee, creator of Marvel Comics’ characters Spider-Man, The Hulk, and The X-Men for a line of original superhero series, the legend’s first new superhero creations in nearly 20 years. BOOM!'s youth imprint, BOOM Kids!, is an undisputed industry leader publishing Disney/Pixar's THE INCREDIBLES, CARS, and TOY STORY, as well as Disney's THE MUPPETS, DONALD DUCK, UNCLE SCROOGE and WALT DISNEY'S COMICS AND STORIES. This year, BOOM! Studios celebrates its fifth anniversary.

About Evil Ink Comics
Evil Ink Comics is the independent publishing company of Claudio Sanchez, the lead singer of progressive rock band Coheed and Cambria, and also the creator and author of Evil Ink’s current projects, Kill Audio & The Amory Wars.

Tuesday, August 03, 2010

DARKWING DUCK #1
SELLS OUT!
GOES TO SECOND PRINTING


DUE TO OUTSTANDING FAN RESPONSE
DARKWING DUCK #3 OUTSELLS ISSUE #1


August 3, 2010 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM Kids! is proud to announce that DARKWING DUCK #1 has sold out, sending everyone's favorite masked mallard into 2nd printing.

BOOM!'s latest smash hit has received tremendous fan support with sales of DARKWING DUCK #3 surpassing the sales of issue #1. DARKWING DUCK #2 is also on the verge of a sell-out and BOOM! is looking into a second printing of issue #2.

Fans should keep in mind, while Diamond Comic Distributors is completely sold out, first printings of DARKWING DUCK #1 may still be found at a direct market retailer near you.

Diamond Comic Distributors is making the second printing of DARKWING DUCK #1 available for retailers to order immediately and the second printing will be featured soon in an upcoming issue of Previews Plus.

The second printing of DARKWING DUCK #1 is also available to order immediately through BOOM!'s relationship with Haven Distributors.

DARKWING DUCK #1 second print features a hilarious variant by James Silvani.

Since its debut critics from all over have given praise to exciting DARKWING DUCK:


"BOOM! Studios delivers the best all ages books on the market, and Darkwing Duck is certainly no exception... impressive"
– IGN

“I give this comic five out of five stars because every time I read it, it puts a smile on my face, it’s visually appealing, very well written, full of nostalgia, and makes me eager to run to the comic shop for the next issue.”
– Major Spoilers

"...DARKWING DUCK is HANDS DOWN the single BEST Disney title BOOM! is putting out! 5/5 Stars”
– Project Fanboy

"This is as fine a return as the Duck Knight could have hoped for. Don’t be surprised to see Darkwing Duck become the hottest book in an already-successful BOOM Kids! line... 5/5 Stars"
– ComiXtreme

"5 Stars... a welcome surprise to see the feel of the show captured so well after all this time. "
– Pop Culture Network

“...marvelous job... the comic was at all times entertaining... 4 out of 5”
– First Comic News


DARKWING DUCK #1 is the first installment of the exciting new ongoing DARKWING DUCK adventure and is written by Ian Brill, with sensational interior art by James Silvani. The first printing shipped with two covers in a 50/50 split and a 1 in 10 incentive cover. The 2nd print carries a Diamond code of: JUN108154.

Recently, BOOM! Studios announced that in addition to Diamond carrying BOOM!'s front list, Haven Distributors will also be carrying all BOOM! titles. Retailers needing more information on how to order from Haven Distributors can call 1-877-HAVEN-50 or sign up on their website here: http://www.havendistro.com/retailers.html

About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios (www.boom-studios.com) 2009 "Best Publisher" of the year, generates a wide-ranging catalog of multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-nominated comic books and graphic novels featuring some of the industry’s top talent, including Philip K. Dick's DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?, 20th Century Fox's 28 DAYS LATER and DIE HARD, The Henson Company's FARSCAPE, and the original Mark Waid series IRREDEEMABLE. This fall sees BOOM! teaming up with the legendary Stan Lee, creator of Marvel Comics’ characters Spider-Man, The Hulk, and The X-Men for a line of original superhero series, the legend’s first new superhero creations in nearly 20 years. BOOM!'s youth imprint, BOOM Kids!, is an undisputed industry leader publishing Disney/Pixar's THE INCREDIBLES, CARS, and TOY STORY, as well as Disney's THE MUPPETS, DONALD DUCK, UNCLE SCROOGE and WALT DISNEY'S COMICS AND STORIES. This year, BOOM! Studios celebrates its fifth anniversary.
For Immediate Release



From Joss Whedon, the Mastermind Behind the Acclaimed TV Series

Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Award-Winning Artist John Cassaday

Comes the Ultimate Story of Mutant Survival!



MARVEL KNIGHTS ANIMATION:

ASTONISHING X-MEN - GIFTED

HITS THE HOME ENTERTAINMENT SHELVES FOR THE FIRST TIME

OWN IT ON DVD SEPTEMBER 28, 2010

FROM SHOUT! FACTORY



The time has come for Marvel Super Heroes CYCLOPS, EMMA FROST, SHADOWCAT, COLOSSUS, BEAST and WOLVERINE to leap from the comic book pages into every home this Fall. On September 28, 2010, Shout! Factory, in association with Marvel Knights Animation will unleash the highly anticipated DVD of ASTONISHING X-MEN – GIFTED, the first title in the multi-part ASTONISHING X-MEN home entertainment series.



Joss Whedon and John Cassaday’s Eisner award-winning take on Marvel’s mightiest mutants comes to life through the studio of comics legend Neal Adams, in the ASTONISHING X-MEN Marvel Motion Comic, adapting the acclaimed “Gifted” storyline! Remaining true to the heritage of panel-by-panel graphic storytelling, with groundbreaking visuals, sensational soundscapes and, of course, the explosiveness of the Mighty Marvel Universe, the ASTONISHING X-MEN - GIFTED DVD features the first story arc of the ASTONISHING X-MEN 3-part series by Whedon and Cassaday. Boasting an exciting array of bonus features, this DVD invites viewers to delve deep inside the imaginative world of the Marvel Universe. A must have for collectors and loyal fans, this deluxe DVD is featured with a graphic rich cover and a unique replica of comic book-style plastic sleeve packaging that bridges the comic book to DVD concept. It is priced to own at $14.97.



Synopsis:

Professor Charles Xavier’s X-Men — the aggressive Wolverine, conflicted Beast and newly returned Kitty Pryde, led by Cyclops and Emma Frost — find themselves confronted with Dr. Kavita Rao, who has developed a controversial “mutant cure.” Now they’re up against science, prejudice and a mysterious new foe named Ord! Can the X-Men protect the world’s mutants against this powerful new alien menace and the “cure” that threatens to rid them of their unique abilities forever?



Extensive Bonus Features:

* A Conversation with Joe Quesada and Neal Adams
* ASTONISHING X-MEN “Rise Up” music video
* ASTONISHING X-MEN – GIFTED trailer
* Visual history of the characters
* Behind-the-scenes: Marvel Knights Animation
* Marvel Super Heroes™: What The — ?
* Artists gallery – John Cassaday
* Additional trailers

…and More!



Direct from the pages of the critically acclaimed comic books, Marvel Knights Animation remains true to the legendary Marvel experience of sophisticated storytelling and dynamic artwork. Behind every image and every word lies the genius of Marvel’s celebrated creators like Joss Whedon, Brian Michael Bendis, Warren Ellis, Adi Granov, and John Cassaday. Marvel Knights Animation merges iconic Marvel comic book graphics and dynamic animation, utilizing some of the latest technology to provide incredible, cutting-edge, in-your-face storytelling. A wonderful hybrid that incorporates all of Marvel’s greatest talents, viewers can experience their favorite comics, as the spectacular visions of these authors and artists come alive in Marvel Knights Animation.





About Marvel Entertainment, LLC

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit www.marvel.com.



About Shout! Factory

Shout! Factory is a diversified entertainment company devoted to producing, uncovering and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their careers sharing their music, television and film faves with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD offerings serve up classic, contemporary and cult TV series, riveting sports programs, live music, animation and documentaries in lavish packages crammed with extras. The company’s audio catalogue boasts GRAMMY®-nominated boxed sets, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations. These riches are the result of a creative acquisitions mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention. With its fingers on the pulse of pop culture, Shout! Factory continues to impact the entertainment media landscape through acquisition of top quality programming for home entertainment releases. Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica, California. For more on Shout! Factory, visit ShoutFactory.com
New Game Theory Video Series, Magazine Give Video Game Industry a Voice



Show and Website Combo Explore Game Industry Reinvention at www.GameTheoryOnline.com



"An intelligent and entertaining look at the games industry through some of the brightest minds in the business."

-Sid Meier, Director of Creative Development, Firaxis Games



SEATTLE, WA (August 3, 2010) - Video production company Game Industry TV™ today announced the debut of new PC and video game show and online magazine, "Game GameTheory Cliff BlezinskiTheory with Scott Steinberg," with new episodes and articles now available at www.gametheoryonline.com. Providing top game designers, executives and journalists with a more enlightened forum to publicly discuss and debate today's top issues, both offer everyday fans deeper, more informed industry analysis in a language that all can understand.



The series' debut season opens with a multi-part, feature-length documentary exploring the reinvention of the entire games business, from social games and motion controls to cloud computing and 3D gaming. Hosted by noted video game expert Scott Steinberg (www.thevideogameexpert.com), the show also features appearances by industry leaders including Will Wright, Sid Meier, Trip Hawkins, Peter Molyneux, Cliff Bleszinski and more.



GameTheory Alex PhamBeyond regular episodes and special features, the series will further be supported by an original online magazine which takes a more analytical and opinionated approach to industry coverage. Featuring a unique blend of commentary, features and trend analysis, editorial voices include hi5 president Alex St. John, futurist Jane McGonigal, ECA president Hal Halpin and others. From plummeting sales to violent video games on trial, both cut through the hype to get at the heart of today's most pressing issues.




Praise for Game Theory with Scott Steinberg™



"The smartest take on the video game industry."

- Trip Hawkins, Founder, Electronic Arts and Digital Chocolate



"An absolute must-see!"

- David Perry, CEO, Gaikai



"Asks all the right questions."

- Todd Howard, Executive Producer, Bethesda Softworks



"Finally, a game industry web show that's well worth my time - features relevant topics, a smart host and all the right voices."

- Randy Pitchford, CEO, Gearbox Software



For more information, please visit http://www.GameTheoryOnline.com





About Game Industry TV



Game Industry TV (www.gameindustrytv.com) is a full-service video production company and online video network featuring the culture, companies and leading personalities behind the $20 billion video games industry. Taking viewers behind the scenes of this dynamic business, it puts a public face on one of the world's most exciting entertainment fields.
Toyota Announces Facebook Contest

to Celebrate 10th Anniversary of Prius


Toyota Facebook Contest Seeks Most Passionate Prius Fan

to Host 10th Anniversary Celebration


(Los Angeles, CA. August 2, 2010) - The Toyota Prius is celebrating its first decade in the U.S. market this year. In a nod to the technological innovation heralded and led by the introduction of the Prius to the automotive market, Toyota is announcing an online contest to find the most passionate Prius fan in the United States* to host the official 10 Years of Toyota Prius Anniversary Celebration.



In 2000, the Prius debuted modestly in the U.S. marketplace. Since that time, the Prius has become the leader of an industry-wide shift towards lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency, the exemplar of environmentally-conscious technological innovation. As a result, this car with the singularly recognizable silhouette has attracted a uniquely loyal customer base, a true community of shared pride and purpose. To celebrate everything that the Prius has become, Toyota will honor this community of like-minded buyers by holding an online contest to find the most passionate Prius fan.



Are you a fuel-efficient hyper-miler, an eco-warrior or tech-savvy gadget guru? Do you volunteer in your community? Toyota wants to hear from you! Submit a video or several photos demonstrating your Prius passion for a chance to host the official 10 Years of Toyota Prius Anniversary Celebration in your hometown. Toyota will select the Top 10 finalists and leave it to the Prius community to decide who should be crowned the most passionate Prius fan.



How do you enter and sign up for more information? Visit Toyota Prius on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/prius). 'Like' the page and we'll keep you posted on when and how you can enter.



· Submission period will run from 07.28.10 - 08.13.10

· Users will vote from among the Top 10 finalists 08.18.10 - 08.27.10

· The winner will be announced on 08.31.10

· The winner will host the 10 Years of Toyota Prius Anniversary

Celebration in HIS/HER HOMETOWN on 10.10.10!



About Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion. Established in 1957, TMS markets products and services through a network of more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers. Toyota directly employs more than 34,000 people in the U.S. and sold more than 1.77 million vehicles in 2009.



For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyota.com, www.lexus.com, www.scion.com or www.toyotanewsroom.com.
STAY OUT OF THE WOODS... AND THE WATER
Image Comics gets mixed up again with the second printing of SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK

Berkeley, CA - 3 August 2010 - Just when you thought it was safe to wander through the woods and go skinny dipping at the beach, Jason Howard (THE ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN) and Ryan Ottley (INVINCIBLE) showed you otherwise with the sold out SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK.

To reinforce the fear of mixed up and violent wildlife, Image Comics is reprinting SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK! This 48-page black and white comic book will be available August 4.

Do not go out at night: GRIZZLY SHARK lurks in these woods. There are many dangers of the deep, but none so deadly as SEA BEAR! Thrill to the adventures of these two exciting new characters, told in two full-length stories and featuring a special prose origin story written by ROBERT KIRKMAN!

The second printing of SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK, a book that Ain't It Cool News describes as having "...exceptional art and a wildly unique story you simply won't find anywhere else," will be available August 4, 2010.

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.

Sunday, August 01, 2010

LEGENDARY MARVEL CREATOR ADDS HIS SUPPORT TO EAGLE INITIATIVE

BARRY Renshaw and Cassandra Conroy are delighted to announce that Stan Lee – the celebrated co-creator of such enduring Marvel characters as Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk and the X-Men – has agreed to become patron of the Eagle Initiative.



Agreeing to give his backing to the innovative worldwide talent search, Lee said, 'Way back in 1976 mine was the first name enrolled on the Eagle Awards Roll of Honour and I’m thrilled, lo these many years later, to be invited to be a patron of this pioneering initiative which stems from such prestigious and long-running prizes.



“Breaking into comic books has never been easy and I think it's great that Barry and Cassandra are devoting their energies to helping newcomers from around the world get their foot on – and up – the ladder,” added the venerated writer. “I’m delighted to add my name to the Eagle Initiative and wish every contestant all the best, both with their entries and their subsequent careers. Who knows, this ambitious project might lead to the discovery of a 21st century Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko... or Stan Lee!”



Responding to the celebrated Marvel creator’s comments, Renshaw – who is spearheading the project – said, “Having an industry legend like Stan Lee not only support the Initiative but agree to be its patron is both incredibly exciting and humbling at the same time. I certainly never expected to receive the amount of interest and support from industry professionals that we have done over just a few short months, and everyone behind the scenes at the Initiative is absolutely dedicated to making sure we live up to their faith in the endeavour."



Now heading up the Eagle Awards, Cassandra Conroy added, “The Marvel Universe had just had its 30th birthday when I came into this world but my dad familarised me with those classic early stories throughout my formative years. It is, therefore, a great honour to have Stan Lee not only support us on the Initiative but also be so enthusiastic about what Barry is doing. I’m sure his involvement will catapult the Initiative and the Eagle Awards themselves into the wider public spotlight.”



Eagle Awards founder Mike Conroy is serving as a consultant and publicist to the Initiative. He commented, “Things just keep getting better for Barry and Cassandra. The industry has been behind them from the start but to get backing from the living legend that is Stan Lee just turns things up to 11!”



For further details on the Initiative, a full list of judges and complete submission guidelines, go to http://www.eaglesinitiative.com/. For press enquiries, contact Mike Conroy: eagleawards@btconnect.com. For further details on the Eagle Awards, contact Cassandra Conroy: eagleawards@gmail.com.



ABOUT THE EAGLES INITIATIVE:
Launched in May 2010, the Eagles Initiative provides a unique platform from which the next generation of writers and artists can promote their storytelling ability in an increasingly competitive market. The brainchild of Barry Renshaw, the Initiative is an unprecedented global talent search, entrants will be asked to submit an original self-contained illustrated story. The winner will be awarded a £1,000 cash prize; the runner up will win £500 with the third place submission being given £250. All three stories are to be included in the Initiative Anthology, which will be released as a print publication and in multiple languages across the digital media.

ABOUT THE EAGLE AWARDS:
Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry's longest established awards. Unique in that they reflect the people's choice, they are awarded by fans who vote for their favourite in each category of the awards. They are named after the fondly remembered 1950's British comic anthology Eagle, and were originated by two British fans, Mike Conroy and Richard Burton. The awards proved to be successful, with American publishers announcing their victories with pride. They have relaunched in 2010 with a new look, a new mandate and a new vision for the future.



ABOUT STAN LEE:

Stan Lee is the man whose co-created superheroes such as Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man and many others have been monster movie hits and helped make Marvel Comics the dominant force in the comicbook industry.

Without question, Stan 'the Man' Lee has exerted more influence over comicbooks than anyone in history. The numbers are staggering – more than 2 billion Marvel Comics have been published in 75 countries and in 25 languages. In Europe alone, Stan Lee's name appears on over 35 million comics annually.

He supervised such diverse animated series as X-Men, Spider-Man and The Hulk. To date, Stan's characters have populated over 24 separate television series, all of which continue in syndication around the world.

Additionally, many of Stan’s other creations, such as the Hulk, the Fantastic Four and Daredevil have been major motion pictures with no end in sight for the sequels, while Doct or Strange, the Mighty Thor, Avengers and Silver Surfer, plus many others, are in development for motion pictures even as you read these words.

Stan Lee's admirers are not limited to the younger generation – his avowed fans include Presidents (Ronald Reagan once said he started every day reading Spider-Man comics and George Bush, in presenting Stan a Medal of the Arts, praised him for encouraging and assisting "millions of young people to broaden their own imaginations") and even his competitors ("Most of my generation of writers learned our craft from or through Stan Lee. He's an incredible part of the business," said Paul Levitz of DC Comics).

Now, as he enters the 21st Century, Stan Lee is broadening his horizons. Stan is currently developing entirely new franchise for film and television with his own company POW! Entertainment while still proudly cherishing the title of Chairman Emeritus of Marvel.

ABOUT BARRY RENSHAW:
Barry Renshaw has been an active creator in the UK independent comics industry for over a decade, as publisher of his own Engine Comics imprint, the award winning Redeye Magazine, and the popular How to Self Publish - A Rough Guide, as well as running or appearing at various workshops, seminars and panels over the years. He was asked to join the Eagle Awards committee in 2009 to help reinvent the brand, and saw an opportunity for the Awards to play a more progressive and proactive role in the comics industry. The Initiative is the first part of that expanded role.



ABOUT CASSANDRA CONROY:

Cassandra Conroy has been a regular presence on the UK convention scene for several years. In 2008 her father Mike Conroy handed over the running of the Eagle Awards to Cassandra, who was then just 16-years old. She has worked on Eaglemoss’s Classic Marvel Figurine Collection and DC Comics Super Hero Collection.



ABOUT MIKE CONROY:

Formerly editor of Comics International, Europe's trade paper, veteran comics journalist and historian Mike Conroy is the founder of the Eagle Awards. Established in 1976, they are one of the comics industry’s earliest established and most coveted international prizes. Sought after to talk about comics and movies on TV and radio, Mike has written extensively on those subjects for various publishers and magazines. He is the author of 500 Great Comic Book Action Heroes its sequel 500 Comic Book Villains and War Stories: A Graphic History as well as a major contributor to Comix: The Underground Revolution. His former position on CI followed his 10-year reign as the magazine's news editor. For over 12 years, his monthly Frame to Frame – the comics industry’s longest-running column discussing the interaction between movies and comics – had been a feature in CI, which he had been associated with since the magazine's very beginnings in 1991. Contact him at: demigod@btconnect.com.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Top Cow Brings Top Talent to the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con!

Baltimore, Maryland - July 30, 2010 - Top Cow Productions is excited to be returning to the Baltimore Comic-Con in 2010 for its 11th annual show. A recurring exhibitor at the annual comic book event, the premiere publisher will be bringing some of their star writers and artists, as well as an exciting show exclusive.

Stop by the Top Cow booth to meet Angelus, Artifacts, Magdalena, Velocity, and Witchblade writer Ron Marz, Artifacts and The Darkness artist Michael Broussard, Velocity and Cyberforce/Hunter-Killer artist Kenneth Rocafort, and upcoming Pilot Season: The Asset writer and Top Cow Productions Publisher Filip Sablik.

"Baltimore Comic-Con is my hometown show and one of my personal favorites to exhibit at each year," stated Top Cow Productions publisher Filip Sablik. "This year, we're thrilled to be coming back to Baltimore with the Artifacts team of Ron Marz and Michael Broussard as well as artist of Velocity, Kenneth Rocafort. The Baltimore fans know how to treat creators right and so these guys were all too eager to make a return appearance!"

Top Cow will also be offering an exclusive Velocity #1 variant by Michael Broussard with interiors by Kenneth Rocafort at the show as well.


2010 Top Cow Velocity #1 variant by MIchael Broussard

In addition to Top Cow Productions, publishers exhibiting in 2010 include Archaia Comics, Adhouse Books Boom! Studios, Dark Horse Comics, IDW, Image Comics, and Top Shelf Comix.

Our guests include: Dave Aikins (SpongeBob Squarepants), Mike and Laura Allred (Madman), Sergio Aragones (Groo), Ivan Brandon (Nemesis: The Imposters), Tom Brevoort (Executive Editor, Marvel Comics), Jim Calafiore (Secret Six), Eric Canete (New Avengers: Luke Cage), Bernard Chang (Prince of Persia), Howard Chaykin (Black Kiss), Sean Chen (Nova), Cliff Chiang (Greendale), Mark Chiarello (Editor, DC Comics), Frank Cho (Ultimate Comics New Ultimates), Mike Choi (X-Force), Steve Conley (Star Trek Omnibus: The Original Series), Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Dan DiDio - Sunday only (The Outsiders, Co-Publisher, DC Comics), Francesco Francavilla (The Green Hornet: Year One), Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez (Wednesday Comics), Ron Garney (Wolverine: Weapon X), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Bryan J.L. Glass (Mice Templar), Michael Golden (Marvel 1602: Spider-Man), Cully Hamner (Detective Comics), Dean Haspiel (ACT-I-VATE), Jonathan Hickman (Fantastic Four), Greg Horn (Green Lantern), Adam Hughes (Wonder Woman), Jamal Igle (Supergirl), Georges Jeanty (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Van Jensen (Pinocchio: Vampire Slayer), Geoff Johns - Sunday only (Blackest Night, Chief Creative Officer, DC Comics), J.G. Jones (DC Universe Legacies), Denis Kitchen (Oddly Compelling Art of Denis Kitchen), Barry Kitson (Iron Man 2 Prequel), Rich Koslowski (BB Wolf and the 3 LPs), Greg LaRocque (The Exiled), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Norman Lee (New Mutants), Steve Lieber (Underground), Joe Linsner (Dawn: Not To Touch The Earth), Luna Brothers (The Sword), David Mack (Kabuki), Clay Mann (X-Men Legacy), Laura Martin (Girl Comics), Ron Marz (Witchblade), Todd McFarlane - Saturday only (Spawn), Mark McKenna (Banana Tail), Mike McKone (Avengers Academy), Bob McLeod (New Mutants Forever), Pop Mhan (Ender's Game: Mazer In Prison), Terry Moore (Echo, SiP), Mark Morales (Siege), Chris Moreno (Toy Story), Sean Murphy (Joe the Barbarian), Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), Phil Noto (Avengers: The Origin), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), Jeff Parker (Thunderbolts), Lauren Perry (Blank-ees), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Brandon Peterson (Ultimate Extinction), Chris Pitzer (Publisher, Adhouse Books), Paul Pope (Wednesday Comics), Eric Powell (The Goon), Jack Purcell (Gotham City Sirens), Mike Raicht (The Stuff of Legend), Tom Raney (Black Widow: Deadly Origin), Chris Roberson (I, Zombi), James Robinson (Justice League of America), Budd Root (Cavewoman), Don Rosa (Uncle Scrooge), Craig Rousseau (Marvel Her-Oes), Stephane Roux (Zatanna), Jim Rugg (Afrodisiac), Tim Sale courtesy of Hero Initiative (Captain America White), Ian Sattler (Editor, DC Comics), Stuart Sayger (Bram Stoker's Death Ship), Bob Schreck (Jurassic Park), Jim Shooter (Magnus, Robot Fighter), Louise Simonson (X-Factor Forever), Walter Simonson (Thor), Andy Smith (WildC.A.T.S.), John K. Snyder III (The A-Team: Shotgun Wedding), Allison Sohn (Star Wars sketchcard artist), Jim Starlin (Dreadstar), Brian Stelfreeze (The Authority: The Lost Year), Paul D. Storrie (Twilight Crusade: Gabriel), Karl Story (Zatanna), Billy Tan (Shadowland), Ben Templesmith sponsored by Laughing Ogre Comics (Choker), Mark Texeira (X-Men: Origins), Herb Trimpe (Incredible Hulk), Timothy Truman (Conan the Cimmerian), Billy Tucci (Shi), Dexter Vines (Ultimate Avengers), Neil Vokes (Superman Adventures), Doug Wagner (World of Warcraft: Horde), Matt Wagner (The Green Hornet: Year One), Mark Waid (Irredeemable, Chief Creative Officer, Boom! Studios), Marv Wolfman (New Teen Titans), John Workman (Heavy Metal), Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing), Kelly Yates (Doctor Who: 2010 Annual), and Chrissie Zullo (Cinderella: From Fabletown With Love).

Regretfully, Al Feldstein will be unable to join us due to illness, but looks forward to returning next year!

In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website (http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/), Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/baltimorecomics), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecomiccon), MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/baltimorecomics), and ComicSpace (http://www.comicspace.com/baltimorecomicon) pages.

This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 28th.

Contact Information
Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con:

press@baltimorecomiccon.com - for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution
promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com - for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications
registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com - for inquiries about submitted registrations
harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com - for communications regarding the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet
general@baltimorecomiccon.com - for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries

About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 11th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 5 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

THE SXSW FILM FESTIVAL, THE ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE, AND THE AUSTIN FILM SOCIETY
Present ...

BOB RAY’S DOWN & DIRTY AUSTIN FILM TOUR

(Austin, TX)— Not content to sit back and allow current independent film
marketing and distribution practices to dictate the fate of his art,
award-winning film maker Bob Ray is foregoing the old model of angling for
distributors. Instead, he’s taking charge and taking his show on the road
to promote the world premier of his new film “Total Badass”, as well as
“Hell On Wheels”, his critically acclaimed documentary on the resurgence
of female roller derby.

Producer Mike S. Ryan (“Junebug,” “Palindromes,” “Fay Grim”) captured the
zeitgeist of many independent filmmakers when he noted, “Market forces are
so shaping independent content that we have castrated the whole reason
indie got started in the first place.” So with a staunch DIY spirit, a
running vehicle, and his innovative films in tow (“Total Badass”, “Hell on
Wheels”, “Rock Opera”, and his “CrashToons”) Ray is determined not to sit
idly by and allow, as Ryan put it, “innovative work that seems alien to
our commercial marketplace” to be drowned out by the onslaught of mindless
sequels and remakes fed to the masses from the corporate-controlled film
biz.

Serving as the world premiere for Ray’s third feature, “Total Badass,”
Ray’s tour delivers the Texas tale of a counter-culture renaissance man as
he defiantly endures the last six months of felony probation and
ultimately must change his ways when a financial crisis befalls his
estranged family. Ray’s second feature film, “Hell on Wheels,” the
critically acclaimed documentary chronicling the new era of roller derby
mania, will also screen in cinemas along the tour.

Grassroots through-and-through, this tour joins forces with local derby
leagues (to date, 529 derby leagues operate worldwide) and film groups to
serve up a slice of the Austin magic to theaters across the U.S. and
Canada. Presented by roller derby leagues, many of the “Hell on Wheels”
screenings will feature post-screening discussions with reps from local
leagues, as well as Ray himself, to further explore the birth of modern
derby, celebrate its continuing growth and examine the connection with
each local stop’s community. “Total Badass” screenings will also feature
Q&A’s with Bob Ray. For selected tour dates, the subject of the
documentary, Chad Holt, will accompany Ray and share his signature brand
of mayhem and humor with filmgoers.

About Bob Ray: Under the Austin, Texas based CrashCam Films moniker, Bob
Ray catapults the Austin counterculture onto the big screen, reveling in
its inspiring, unique and deliriously offbeat glory. Frequently fusing
comedic elements into tense and dramatic scenarios, his films push
cinematic boundaries while challenging and delighting viewers.

Ray’s work includes the critically acclaimed roller derby documentary
“Hell on Wheels,” myriad short films and music videos for Nashville Pussy,
Riverboat Gamblers, Fuckemos, Golden Arm Trio and more. Bob Ray frequently
collaborates with musical pioneers like …And You Will Know Us By The Trail
of Dead and Butthole Surfers, and he has worked with The Polyphonic Spree,
Black Eyed Peas, Blur, Jurassic Five, Modest Mouse, Clinic, Hank Williams
III, X-Ecutioners, Eels and many other artists. His films have screened
as official selections in over 70 film festivals as well as cinemas all
over the world (BAM Cinematek, SXSW, American Cinematheque at the Egyptian
in L.A., Australian Centre for the Moving Image, etc.). In 2003, Ray
received a High Times Magazine nomination for a Stony Award for his first
feature film, “Rock Opera”. Ray’s raucous, sidesplitting CrashToons
animated shorts have been featured on Turner Network’s SuperDeluxe.com,
Playboy.com and Comedy Central’s Atom.com.

This year Bob Ray brings you the new documentary “Total Badass,” an
outrageous and hilariously seedy venture into the Austin underground with
wild man-about-town, social deviant, musical/stunt performer, sex addict,
Guinea pig enthusiast, writer/publisher, father, weed dealing felon and
Texas maniac Chad Holt.

Bob Ray’s Down and Dirty Austin Film Tour

July 29 Portland, OR @ Clinton St. Cinema
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
*sponsored by Rose City Rollers
9:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

July 30 Seattle, WA @ Central Cinema
7:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

July 31 Salem, OR @ Salem Cinema
Roller Derby Film Festival!!! Hell on Wheels screening with Brutal Beauty
and Blood on the Flat Track

Aug 1 Eugene, OR @ David Minor Theater
5:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
*sponsored by Emerald City Roller Girls

Aug 2 Chico, CA @ Cal Skate
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
*sponsored by NorCal Roller Girls

Aug 3 Berkeley, CA @ El Cerrito Theater
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
9:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

Aug 4 San Francisco, CA @ Roxie Theater
7:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt
9:15 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons

Aug 5 San Francisco, CA @ Roxie Theater
7:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt
9:15 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons

Aug 12 Los Angeles, CA @ Echo Park Film Center
7:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

Aug 13 Los Angeles, CA @ American Cinematheque
9:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

Aug 14 Phoenix, AZ @ MADCAP Theaters
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
9:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

Aug 15 Las Cruces, NM @ The Fountain
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons

Aug 16 Marfa, TX @ Padre’s
7:00 Hell on Wheels with CrashToons
9:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt

Aug 21 Austin, TX
7:00 Total Badass with CrashToons
*with filmmaker Bob Ray and Chad Holt



Jenny Bendel
CEO & Executive Producer
Rock 'n Load

"Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better."
– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Join the revolution at:

FB - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000727447092&ref=mf Twitter
- @JennyBendel, @Rock_and_Load

www.rocknload.us
Mark Batty Publisher Presents:
REVELATIONS AND THE STUPID CREATURES
New York, NY - July 29, 2010 - In Revelations & the Stupid Creatures, John Murphy pairs his distinctive plush Stupid Creatures with the Book of Revelation, one of the Bible's most descriptive and interpreted sections. A multi-headed dragon; beasts that resemble a lion, calf, man and an eagle; seven angels and more get commissioned treatments from Murphy. Illustrator Liana Finck complements the creatures with her expressive take on this epic tale. Together, the two artists have created an illustrated Book of Revelation as vivid as William Blake's.

Revelations & the Stupid Creatures is the first in what will be an ongoing series of artists, working in all mediums, responding to the Book of Revelation, the next of which will be Revelations and Dog by Michael Caines.

About John Murphy and Liana Finck

John Murphyis a plush toy artist from Asheville, North Carolina. For seven years he made plush toys for customers all over the world. To date he's written and co written five books about plush toys, including the bestselling Stupid Sock Creatures and stuffed toy how-to book Closet Monsters, which be released in October of 2010. He was recently interviewed in the plush art trade magazine Stuffed and is a featured designer in Green Design (Mark Batty Publisher) and Dot Dot Dash (Gestalten Books, 2006), and Art Doll Adventures (Li Hertzi, 2007). He currently works for a wilderness therapy camp for at risk teens, and will be taking a residency at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Wisconsin this September. Find out more about John and his work at www.stupidcreatures.com.

Liana Finck is a graphic novelist and designer based in New York. She graduated from Cooper Union College and is a recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship. Her first graphic novel, Phèdre: A Comic Tragedy, can be downloaded for free from Lulu.com.
About Mark Batty Publisher

Mark Batty Publisher (http://www.markbattypublisher.com) is an independent publisher dedicated to making distinctive books on the visual art of communicating, showcasing the visual power and innovation of contemporary culture in all of its varied poses. Today, the visual comes at us from more places than ever, and its dissemination is faster and more advanced every year. Books from Mark Batty Publisher capture this acceleration on the pages of every book. Affordable, well designed, thoughtfully created, and produced to last, MBP books are artful products that readers want to hold onto forever.

# # #

Revelations and the Stupid Creatures
By John Murphy & Liana Finck
Page Count: 48 pages
Size: 9.25 x 11.5 inches (23.5 x 29.2 cm)
Format: Color throughout; Casebound
Publication Date: July 2010
Price: US $34.95 UK £25 CA $47
ISBN: 9780982075456

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

JANET AND ALEX EVANOVICH’S TROUBLEMAKER

A SUCCESS AT COMIC-CON!



JULY 27, SAN DIEGO, CA—Last week, fourteen-time number-one best-selling author Janet Evanovich’s first-ever graphic novel, Troublemaker, saw a much-anticipated worldwide English-language release.

Troublemaker is available everywhere, from department stores to bookstores and comic shops across the U.S., making the title one of the most widely distributed the company has published without any Hollywood tie-ins.

Cowritten by daughter Alex Evanovich, Troublemaker is the continuation of the popular Barnaby series, which features the high-stakes misadventures of the main character, Alex Barnaby; NASCAR driver Sam Hooker; and, of course, Beans, the Saint Bernard. The third book in the series, this exciting new volume delivers more fast cars, fast-paced action, and steamy romance.

“I’ve loved comics all my life and it’s really exciting to be working with Dark Horse to produce my very own graphic novel,” said Janet Evanovich. “I’m also excited that I could do this with my daughter Alex (the family comicaholic).”

“This is a groundbreaking project in which Janet and Alex are telling the third chapter of an established prose series in graphic-novel format,” said Dark Horse president Mike Richardson. “We feel that this book will open up the characters to a brand-new audience, as well as expanding the authors’ fan base.”

In celebration of the release, both Janet and Alex Evanovich attended San Diego Comic-Con this weekend, appearing on the company’s publishing panel on Friday, and signing in the Dark Horse booth later that day. Janet and Alex greeted hundreds of excited fans, and hosted one of the largest crowds of the convention.

Additionally, the two appeared at the Barnes & Noble in the Mira Mesa Market Center, and drew an even larger crowd of fans who could not attend the convention.

Janet and Alex Evanovich’s Troublemaker Volume 2 arrives in November.



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 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, Mass Effect, Tim Burton, 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.
For Immediate Release

Independent comics publisher Free Lunch Comics is proud to announce their latest graphic novel, Sky Pirates of Valendor: Volume 1!

Sky Pirates of Valendor: Volume 1 available for pre-order through Diamond Distribution. The 148 page graphic novel appears on page 284 of the August Previews Catalog and carries the order number: AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN.

Sky Pirates of Valendor recounts the debut adventure of Pirate Captain Tobin Manheim and the rest of the crew of the Rogue's Revenge. Set in the fantasy world of Valendor where giant continents float on oceans of sky! A mix of steampunk and high fantasy where magic co-exists with futuristic technology, Valendor is a fully realized world, with complex social structures, a guild-driven economic system, and a host of political intrigue.

Sky Pirates is the brainchild of Everett Soares, the award winning author of several stories appearing in Comicbook Artists Guild's publications. He has won the Best Writer Award in CAG for the last two years. Sky Pirates debuted in and placed as the runner up in the 2007 Edition of Small Press Idol, a talent competition for independent comics projects run by Ian Shires. Shortly after the competition, Sky Pirates secured a publishing deal with Free Lunch Comics.

Penciller Brian Brinlee illustrated the epic story. Soares and Brinlee have collaborated for years on Sky Pirates of Valendor and other projects. The inking team consists of Michael W. Kellar, Alex Rivera and Keith Murphey. New York City based illustrator James Rodriguez provided the cover art for the graphic novel.

Free Lunch Comics has been publishing since 1998 and features several titles in addition to Sky Pirates, including: Bigger, Only in Whispers, Pork 'N Beans, Beyond the Kuiper Belt, The Original Nutty Funsters, Cookie Bear and the Good Girl Art of Norman Katz.

To celebrate the inclusion of Sky Pirates of Valendor in the Previews Catalog, the various creators of the book will be appearing at comic stores throughout New York and New England. A partial list follows:

July 28, 2010 Friendly Neighborhood Comics, Bellingham, MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
July 31, 2010 Harrison’s Comics, Salem MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 4, 2010 Most Excellent Collectibles, Enfield CT with Free Lunch Comics President Matt C. Ryan
August 7, 2010 Casablanca Comics, Portland, ME featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 8, 2010 Double Midnight, Manchester, NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 14, 2010 Comic Monstore, Salisbury NC with Michael W. Kellar, contributing Inker
August 14, 2010 That's Entertainment, Worcester MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 21, 2010 New England Comics, Brockton MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 22, 2010 Modern Myths, Northampton MA with Keith Murphey, contributing Inker and Art Director
August 22, 2010 Alternate Universe, Milford CT featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 28, 2010 Jetpack Comics, Rochester NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
More dates and locations to be announced

Once again, the order code is AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN. Use this number to pre-order your copy of the book through your local comic store. Use www.comicstorelocator.com to find the store nearest you!