ADVENTURE AWAITS POKÉMON FANS AS VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF

POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS ON DVD

San Francisco, CA, September 19, 2011 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, will excite POKÉMON™ fans everywhere with the DVD release of the full-length feature film from the venerable kids franchise, POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS. The DVD, rated ‘A’ for All Ages, will be released on September 20^th under the company’s VIZ KIDS imprint and will carry an MSRP of $19.97 U.S. / $19.98 CAN.

As Ash and his friends journey to Crown City to join the crowds watching the Pokémon Baccer World Cup, mysterious forces are in motion that could bring untold misfortune to them all! What secrets does Zorua, a Pokémon they befriend along the way, hide? Why is the powerful Zoroark rampaging through the city, and what does the appearance of the Legendary Pokémon Raikou, Entei, and Suicune mean? All these questions and more will be answered in POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS! 

“We are thrilled to bring the POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS DVD to Pokémon fans across the country,” says Brian Ige, Vice President, Animation. “The Pokémon community is incredibly passionate and they will be excited to add this movie to their home DVD library.”

For more information on VIZ Media’s POKÉMON manga and anime titles, please visit www.VIZ.com/Pokemon/.

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine and blockbuster properties like Naruto, Bleach and InuYasha, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

TEEN WOLF LEAPS FROM MTV TO COMIC

Top Cow Productions Publishes New Comic Based on Hit Show

Berkeley, CA – 19 September 2011 – Following the immediate success of MTV's newest hit show Teen Wolf, Top Cow Productions and MTV Comics are presenting a three issue comics series based on the show that will hit store shelves and digital platforms soon. When the new comic book series was announced at Comic-Con International in San Diego, the fans of Teen Wolf swarmed Top Cow's booth for the exclusive preview of the comic and stood in line for hours waiting to meet the cast and creators of their newest favorite teen horror drama.

This three issue miniseries will begin shipping in a week and, like the break out successful MTV Television series, will appeal to the fans of the original films as well as cultural icons such as the Twilight Saga and the Vampire Diaries. Written by David Tischman (True Blood, Bite Club) with art by Stephen Mooney (Angel) and covers by Joe Corroney (True Blood: Tainted Love), the series will act as both an introduction to new fans of Teen Wolf and augment the viewing experience of the hit MTV show.

"TEEN WOLF reimagines the worn-out werewolf genre, and turns it into a modern story of horror and hot love," explained writer David Tischman. "The scripts are so smart, and I worked with [showrunner] Jeff Davis to keep the same scary horror we see each week on the show; the personal horror of Scott dealing with being a werewolf, and the predatory horror of the werewolf culture. But I also really wanted to focus on the relationship moments between Scott and Allison. In those scenes, I think everybody remembers what that first love was like -- the scary, gut-wrenching "does she like me?" and "can I touch that?" moments we all have growing up. The book's been a lot of fun to write, and I can't wait to see what Jeff comes up with for Season 2."

Scott McCall's life is a living nightmare. Sure, he's co-captain of the Beacon Hills High Lacrosse Team and his hot new girlfriend, Allison, adores him, but Scott was bitten by a werewolf. And every time he gets excited, the claws come out. And the hair. And the fangs. That might be okay, except Allison's father leads a specially trained group of Hunters who want him dead. Scott's managed to keep his secret safe, but what happens when he can't reverse the process?

TEEN WOLF: BITE ME #1 (JUL110434), a full color comic will be on sale in stores on September 21 for $3.99, along with a limited photo variant cover at participating retailers. 

ABOUT MTV

MTV is the world’s premier youth entertainment brand. With a global reach of more than a half-billion households, MTV is the cultural home of the millennial generation, music fans and artists, and a pioneer in creating innovative programming for young people. MTV reflects and creates pop culture with its Emmy®, Grammy® and Peabody® award-winning content built around compelling storytelling, music discovery and activism across TV, online and mobile. 

MTV’s sibling networks MTV2 and mtvU each deliver unparalleled customized content for young males, music fans and college students, and its online hub MTV.com is the leading destination for music, news and pop culture. MTV is part of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.

ABOUT TOP COW PRODUCTIONS INC. 

Top Cow Productions, Inc. (www.topcow.com), a Los Angeles-based entertainment company, was founded in December of 1992 by artist Marc Silvestri, who also co-founded Image Comics earlier that same year. Top Cow currently publishes its line of comic books in 21 languages in over 55 different countries. The company has launched 20 franchises (18 original and two licensed) in the industry’s Top 10, seven at #1, a feat accomplished by no other publisher in the last two decades. Its flagship franchise, WITCHBLADE, was TNT’s #1 original film of 2000 and the subsequent TV series was released on DVD on July 29, 2008. WITCHBLADE is also the first American property to be fully adapted in Japan as an original anime and manga by Studio GONZO in 2006. Top Cow’s other flagship property, THE DARKNESS, was developed into a major next-generation video game release by Starbreeze and 2K Games and achieved platinum sales status. A second game is slated for release from 2K Games in the Fall of 2011. WANTED, an Eisner-nominated miniseries published by Top Cow from 2003-2005, is now a major motion picture from Universal Pictures starring Angelina Jolie, James McAvoy and Morgan Freeman. Virtually all of Top Cow’s other properties are in development as feature films, live-action television, animation or video games. Top Cow has also successfully licensed and merchandised its franchises into toys, statues, clothing, lithographs, puppets, posters, magnets, shot glasses, lighters, lunch pails, wall scrolls, mouse pads, die-cast cars, calendars, Christmas ornaments, Halloween masks, trading cards, standees, video games and roleplaying games. 

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, visitwww.imagecomics.com.

Detroit Fanfare is a Working Convention
Full schedule of seminars and workshops part of the programming

Detroit Fanfare is this week…September 24-25!  After the inaugural show last year was a huge success and featured over 100 comic guests including Stan Lee and Jim Starlin, the 2011 version has been super-sized!

Fanfare has brought in some media guests, those with strong tie-ins with comics, to complement the over 250 comic creators at the show.  Bruce Campbell, Peter Weller, Kelly Hu, Adam Baldwin, Steven Yeun, and Brian O’Halloran are featured as is a 30^th Anniversary gathering for the cult hit film, Evil Dead.

Headlining the comic guests are such notables as Kevin Eastman, Tony Moore, Tommy Lee Edwards, Phil Hester, Tim Bradstreet, Ron Marz, and more including many self publishers.

“Detroit Fanfare celebrates the comic convention as it should be because after all,” says Dennis Barger, co-organizer of the event, “this is where comic cons all started way back with Shel Dorf before he went to San Diego.”  Barger says that the emphasis at Fanfare is on the creators of comics and the front entry is publishers and creators first.  “Our Artist Alley is at the front, as soon as you walk in.  It’s the creators that make conventions special.”

In addition to featuring the comic creators first and foremost, scheduling of seminars and workshops focus on a “how to” atmosphere at the convention.  There are workshops on preparing comics for printing, writing secrets, tips on coloring and lettering, understand how to do print on demand, construction of story elements, and much more.  Gary Reed, former publisher of Caliber Comics, and now a co-organizer of the convention, felt that the working aspects of the convention were key.  “Comic creators like to learn from each other and I was surprised how many creators were not only willing, but actually eager, to share their tips and secrets with other creators.  There is a full schedule that anyone wanting to learn more on many aspects of comic creation, would find a lot of great information here.”

Another co-organizer, Tony Miello, echoes Reed’s sentiments.  “Even fans are interested in how things work and many fans are also considering entering the comic creation field.”  Miello said that there were many opportunities for artists to show their skills at the convention.  “We have many of the creators volunteering their time to do portfolio reviews.   We have a room where there will be at least two creators at all times reviewing.”  In addition, Lauren Sankovitch of Marvel Entertainment will also be reviewing portfolios throughout both days and the Center for Creative Studies, a college art school, will also be conducting reviews for both days.

Barger also brings up that in celebration of Shel Dorf, there are the first annual Shel Dorf Awards which will honor creators and titles that the fans have chosen.

The Detroit Fanfare Convention is held at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit on September 24 and 25.  For more information, visit detroitfanfare.com.

NBM in November:


This November we're offering two phenomenal book sets that make perfect holiday gifts as well as essential editions to your own comic book library.
P. Craig Russell’s Opera Adaptations set

  

The great P. Craig Russell adapts in stunning comic art The Magic Flute, Parsifal, I Pagliacci, Pelleas & Melisande, and Salome amongst others. A banded set of 3 beautiful volumes at a special price. Normally $54.

8x 11 1/2, 440pp. full color set of 3 trade pb., $44.99,
978-1-56163-620-4
These beautiful books have long been in our catalog and here’s a fabulous way to discover them all at a great price!
Oh, and you know what: we’re going to have some news with P. Craig Russell next year… THE NEXT VOLUME OF HIS FAIRY TALES OF OSCAR WILDE! It’s been a few years since the last one and with all that’s gone on since, we’re excited to bring this all back to the fore!
And then we’ve got this set:
Miss Don’t Touch Me Complete Set
Kerascoet and Hubert

The banded complete set of both volumes of the Miss Don’t Touch Me series. Paris in the thirties. The ‘Butcher of the Dances’ is on the prowl for young loose women. Blanche works as a maid along with the only family she knows, her sister, fun-loving Agatha. Suddenly, Blanche loses her to what she saw was murder but others only write off as suicide. She decides to take matters into her own hands. In her pursuit, she ends up hired into a luxury house of call-girls. She even becomes quite good at certain lascivious practices while still remaining a virgin! But she also doesn’t lose sight of her goal: find the Butcher.

A suspenseful spicy tale as only the French could so lightly get away with, yet deceptive in its depth and realism. By the artist of Dungeon Early Years.

61/2 x9, 192 pp., full color set of 2 trade pb., $27.99: normally $29.90
978-1-56163-621-1

CLASSIC MARVEL CHARACTERS #1: SPIDER-MAN IS ON SALE NOW! 

MAY 4, MILWAUKIE, OR—The 1960s brought a cultural upheaval in music and art, with a host of new icons entering the scene: The Beatles, Andy Warhol, and, of course, Marvel Comics, led by a host of characters that defined modern comic books. Now, these characters will appear just as they did then, in a new line of collectible statuettes from Dark Horse Deluxe.

The first of these collectible statues arrives on sale this week with Spider-Man, and will continue with two alternating series: Classic Marvel Characters and the Fantastic Four. The statues portray these characters just as they originally appeared: Spider-Man is presented with his early “web wing” costume, and Daredevil is in his yellow-and-red uniform, for instance. This new line will be deliberately different than the common modern Marvel collectible sculpture, with features like a rougher surface texture, visible seam lines, and other slightly “distressed” aspects, such as the method of paint application.

“I’ve collected Marvel comics since I was a kid,” Dark Horse president Mike Richardson recalled, “so I am really excited by this opportunity to add these terrific characters to our classic Syroco line. From the beginning, the goal of this program was to give a very unique treatment to the greatest characters in comics, and now we have the good fortune to work with the fine folks at Marvel on some of my absolute favorites.” 

Each hand-numbered statuette comes carefully packaged in a custom-tooled, full-color, litho-printed tin box, in a style similar to past releases in the Dark Horse Syroco line. Also included is a small booklet about each character and a vintage-style pin-back button of the character. 

Dark Horse’s statuettes are inspired by figurines developed in the 1930s. Now highly prized by collectors, they were often used as advertising premiums featuring famous comic-strip characters. Now known as Syroco figurines, these statuettes are named after both the company that originally produced them and the woodlike resin material from which they were made at the time. Measuring between four and five inches, these statuettes have been sculpted in the original style, described by sculptor Craig Yoe as “primitive but charming.”

Disney’s Uncle Scrooge, the Kellogg’s cereal mascots, Charles Schulz’s Peanuts, stars of DC Comics and Archie Comics, The Simpsons, newspaper-strip greats, and more have all previously appeared in this Syroco-style continuing series of collectible limited-edition sculptures.

Spider-Man, limited to two thousand numbered statuettes, is available for purchase today in finer retailers across the country.

  

Comikaze Expo Presents The First Ever “After Hours” Live Table Read by Cracked.com’s Acclaimed Cast and Writers

Leading Digital Entertainment Brand To Present Three Exclusive Panel Events At Cutting-Edge Pop Culture Expo With Strong Focus on Comics, Horror, Sci-Fi, Anime and Gaming

Los Angeles, Calif. (September 16, 2011) - Comikaze Expo, the largest multimedia pop culture, comic book, horror, anime and gaming convention in California, has announced it will host a series of panel events with award-winning online entertainment destination Cracked.com, including the first ever public table read by the cast and creators of the hit web series “After Hours.” This premiere experience is just one of many exciting panels and crazy events that Comikaze has lined up for this one-of-a-kind expo taking place on November 5-6, 2011 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Cracked.com’s “After Hours” cast and crew, including Jack O'Brien, Daniel O'Brien, Michael Swaim, Soren Bowie, Katie Willert, Cody Johnston and director Justin Viar, invite members to experience and participate in “The Making of ‘After Hours:’ How a Conversation Becomes an Episode.” Mixing pop culture observations, limitless non sequiturs and weigh-in from the crowd, the evening will result in an inside look at series development, a screening of a not-yet-released episode and live commentary from the Cracked team. 

In addition to this exciting After Hours panel, the Cracked.com team will be joined by members from three up-and-coming comedy troupes to host the panel “Comedy Troupes Are the New Rock Stars.” For kids growing up in the 70s and 80s, starting a garage band was the “cool” thing to do. Today, the successes of comedy ensembles including Lonely Island and Derrick Comedy have made comedy troupes the single most important creative collective. The “Comedy Troupes Are the New Rock Stars” panel will discuss how comedy ensembles are shaping culture and pushing the boundaries of the entertainment industry.

To complete their stunning trifecta at Comikaze, the Cracked.com team will bring their entertaining pop culture commentary to the stage with a performance of the sketch comedy showcase “Cracked LIVE: The 6 Most Bafflingly Hilarious Things Happening in Front of You (Right Now)!” Cracked LIVE! features performances by fan-favorite Cracked.com personalities, short comedy skits, stand-up, and completely tolerable amounts of music!

Comikaze Expo is thrilled to host Cracked’s team of culture pundits – and the feeling is mutual. “I'm thrilled to be such a big part of Comikaze this year, most especially because they're letting us do whatever we darn well want to,” said Michael Swaim, head of video, Cracked.com. “It's an ethos I know the fans appreciate, and we certainly do, too. I can't wait to show LA's comic and pop culture fans all the weird wonders we've got lying in wait.”

Others from After Hours were equally enthusiastic. “Finally, I'll have a place in Los Angeles where I can talk incessantly about comics and nerd stuff without bothering the staff at Hi De Ho Comics,” said Dan O’Brien, senior writer, Cracked.com. “I can't wait to spend an entire weekend briefly celebrating Cracked and then passionately arguing about whether or not Miles Morales will make a good Spider-man.”  Soren Bowie, editor/columnist, Cracked.com added, “Following this, Thanksgiving will almost certainly be a letdown. And I love Thanksgiving.”

The first and only multimedia, cross-genre expo to hit Los Angeles, Comikaze Expo has created a pop culture extravaganza that brings together the best in comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime and all other cult programming. Its wide-ranging appeal has attracted celebrity appearances from icons and budding artists of this exciting world, including animators, comic book and anime artists, special effects teams, writers, actors, and filmmakers, among other creators, from both the mainstream and geek worlds.

Comikaze’s creators expect 60,000 attendees and more than 300 vendors. The show will kick off with appearances by the father of modern comics, Stan Lee, and Comikaze’s official “Spooksperson,” horror icon Elvira, at the event’s ribbon-cutting ceremony.

This unparalleled event’s wide range of innovative programming and activities provide fans access to their favorite artists and creators. From independent film screenings, live shows and star-studded panels to fan contests, games, portfolio reviews and a masquerade ball, there is something for everyone and more at Comikaze. Family-oriented events are scheduled for Sunday, November 6.       

Tickets are available through pre-sale at $12 each. Each ticket holder will receive their choice of a celebrity lithograph photo valued at $79-$189. For more information about Comikaze, including sponsorship information, vendor applications and ticket sales, visit www.comikazeexpo.com.

About Comikaze       
Comikaze Expo is the largest multimedia pop culture convention in Los Angeles. The brainchild of Southern California siblings, Regina and Mario Carpinelli, this unique event brings together the best in comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime and all other cult programming. Comikaze takes place November 5-6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, and offers a slate of innovative programming, panels, contests and other activities that provide fans access to their favorite artists and creators in this adventure-packed weekend. For more info, visit www.ComikazeExpo.com.      

About Cracked.com

Cracked.com, a Demand Media property, is an award-winning entertainment destination best known for its funny and informative lists and non-fiction and cultural commentary.  Created as an online extension of the American humor magazine founded in 1958, Cracked.com is one of the longest-running and fastest growing comedy brands online.  Cracked.com delivers a unique take on entertainment and modern cultural topics created by its editorial team in the form of articles and videos. For additional information about Cracked.com, please visit http://www.cracked.com.

LOBSTER JOHNSON RETURNS IN “TONY MASSO’S FINEST HOUR” IN DARK HORSE PRESENTS #9

MILWAUKIE, OR, SEPTEMBER 14—Yet another character from the Hellboy universe will be making an appearance in Dark Horse’s flagship anthology soon, when the 1930s vigilante Lobster Johnson makes his first appearance in Dark Horse Presents #9!

In “Tony Masso’s Finest Hour,” Mike Mignola’s pulp hero is on the trail of a notorious mob boss. However, when he arrives at the gangster’s mansion to take him down, it turns out there is more afoot than just good old-fashioned organized crime.

“Lobster Johnson takes a beating!!!” said Mike Mignola.

Featuring an all-new story by Mike Mignola, with art from Joe Querio, “Tony Masso’s Finest Hour” arrives in the ninth issue of Dark Horse Presents, on sale in February!

Winners Revealed for Project: Rooftop's"Spider-Man: Webhead 2.0" Redesign Contest, Sponsored by Flying Colors Comics 

After months of anticipation and over 150 entries, Project: Rooftop is proud to announce the winners of its "Spider-Man: Webhead 2.0" Redesign contest. After P:R's regular contributors and guest judges from iFanboy.com critiqued the results, the ultimate winner of the contest is Mike Dimayuga with this stunning entry.

Artists Brett Howard and Rosy Higgins came in with 2nd and 3rd Place positions respectfully, and a host of artists earned Honorable Mentions for their diverse designs.

"We were honored to participate in the latest round of Project Rooftop, especially with the subject being the legendary Spider-Man," said Ron Richards, co-founder of iFanboy "Josh Flanagan, Conor Kilpatrick and myself are huge fans of Project Rooftop, with it being one of the most creative ways to showcase up and coming artistic talent in the comic book industry. We had a blast re-imagining Spider-Man with all the artists and the other judges!"

The event has been sponsored by the comics store Flying Colors Comics, based in Concord, California. The store, which celebrates its 23rd Anniverary on September 17th, is owned by ComicsPRO President and founder of Free Comic Book Day, Joe Field.

Thanks to Paul Milligan for designing our contest logo!

##

Project: Rooftop (http://www.projectrooftop.com) is where cartoonists and illustrators bring their costume design skills to task in tribute to the superheroes and villains we've grown up with. This site is intended to promote the idea of superhero costume redesigning as a skill, specific to superhero media. We also aim to foster continued interest for these amazing characters and spotlight up-and-coming creators.

EMMY AWARD-WINNER GREG NICOTERO NAMED

CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER OF AMC’S “THE WALKING DEAD”

SPECIAL EFFECTS MAKE-UP GURU INKS

OVERALL DEVELOPMENT DEAL

NICOTERO-DIRECTS WEBISODES HITTING AMCTV.COM ON OCTOBER 3^rd

New York, NY- September 15, 2011 - AMC announced today that Emmy Award-winning make-up effects artist Greg Nicotero has been a named co-executive producer of “The Walking Dead.” Nicotero has also inked a first-look deal with the network, which gives him the opportunity to bring his own passion projects to AMC. At Saturday’s Creative Arts Emmy Awards, Nicotero won Best Prosthetic Make-up for AMC’s “The Walking Dead.”  Nicotero directs a series of webisodes this season and is also set to direct an episode.

“Greg's talent extends well beyond the word of special fx makeup,” said Joel Stillerman, AMC’s SVP of original programming, production and digital content.  “He is also a truly talented director, and has an incredibly comprehensive understanding and appreciation for great storytelling. His knowledge and respect for the genre is unparalleled, and we are looking forward to expanding our relationship with him with an eye towards developing more great original series.”

Nicotero, who co-owns KNB EFX GROUP, one of Hollywood’s most successful Make-up Effects Studios, premiered his film THE UNITED MONSTER TALENT AGENCY on AMC’S Fearfest last Halloween.  He began his career on DAY OF THE DEAD in 1985 and as of this year has been involved in nearly 800 feature films including those of Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez. He is repped by Ken Linzer, UTA and Chris Pollack at Generate.

 

Greg’s masterful work on “The Walking Dead” continues this season on amctv.com. Beginning on October 3^rd, fans are able to watch the six-episode web series. Produced by Generate, and conceived and directed by Nicotero and written by John Esposito, the webisodes tell an “origin” story of a woman’s struggle to survive and to protect her family as the world begins to fall apart.  Fans have the opportunity to explore the back story of one of the most celebrated “walkers” last season. It focuses on “Bicycle Girl,” the infamous zombie from season one, who was shot by Rick Grimes in the pilot episode. Fans learn about this woman’s life before the apocalypse, and watch her story unfold into what becomes her ultimate demise into zombie-hood.

Nicotero says, “Working on “The Walking Dead” with such a fantastic cast and crew has been an amazing opportunity, and to have our contribution to the show celebrated is a tremendous compliment.  I have always felt like the show had a cinematic feel and everyone involved is dedicated to making this show something special.  To be able to branch out and to develop not only the web series but also genre material is something I have always wanted to do; given the people I have had the pleasure of working with over the last 23 years.”

About Generate

Generate, a pioneering multi-platform studio and talent management firm that connects advertising, technology and entertainment, stands apart as a full-service integrated media company executing ideas from concept through production entirely in-house. Launched in 2006 by leading media executives from television, film, digital, advertising, production and talent management – including Jordan Levin, former CEO of The WB Network – Generate has created an innovative vertical and horizontal business model designed to marry the best of old Hollywood with the new digital age. The collaborative media company, with offices based in Santa Monica, Calif., and New York City, has become the premier provider of customized branded content across traditional and digital platforms; a developer and producer of fiction and factual entertainment for a variety of distribution outlets; and home to a prolific, ever-growing talent management division.

About AMC

AMC reigns as the only cable network in history to ever win the Emmy® Award for Outstanding Drama Series three years in a row, as well as the Golden Globe® Award for Best Television Series - Drama for three consecutive years.  Whether commemorating favorite films from every genre and decade or creating acclaimed original programming, the AMC experience is an uncompromising celebration of great stories.  AMC's original stories include “Mad Men,” “Breaking Bad,” “The Walking Dead,” “The Killing” and “Hell on Wheels.”  AMC further demonstrates its commitment to the art of storytelling with AMC’s Docu-Stories, a slate of unscripted original series, as well as curated movie franchises like AMC’s Can’t Get Enough and AMC’s Crazy About.  Available in more than 97 million homes (Source: Nielsen Media Research), AMC is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc. and its sister networks include IFC, Sundance Channel and WE tv.  AMC is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand and mobile.  AMC: Story Matters Here^SM

THE LAST BATTLE REACHES AMERICA'S SHORES

Image Comics Introduces Faraci & Brereton's Historic War Fiction Comic

Berkeley, CA – 15 September 2011 – This December, THE LAST BATTLE will arrive in the form of a gritty story of Caesar's war against the barbarian armies of Gaul. Writer Tito Faraci (Diabolik, Spider-Man: The Secret of Glass, Daredevil and Captain America) and artist Dan Brereton (NOCTURNALS, The Punisher, God-Sized Thor, Red Sonja,Thrillkiller) created this complete and unflinching tale of one of the unsung heros of Caesar's Legions. 

THE LAST BATTLE has been translated in many languages, and found great success in Italy, Germany, Spain, Brazil and more, but has not yet been available in English. Image Comics is now proud to introduce THE LAST BATTLE to American readers.

"The 'peplum' or 'sword and sandals' genre was very popular in Italy, mostly in the seventies," said Faraci. "As a child my imagination was formed by the gladiators, centurions, slaves, rebels and charming maidservants of those films. As a student, I studied, learning how the ancient world truly was... and found it fascinating. In THE LAST BATTLE, I tried to transmit the 'peplum' emotions of my youth with a correct, trustworthy historical approach."

"This project required me to be as well-versed in Roman and Celtic history as I could be to create the visual authenticity required for Tito's script," Brereton explained. "An added layer of truth in Tito's script spurred my research and made the story that much more exciting to illustrate for me, and I believe readers will become as immersed in this ancient world as I was painting it."

THE LAST BATTLE, set in 52 BCE Gaul, begins as Caesar’s forces lay siege to the barbarian stronghold of Alesia in  a battle which would forever change history; while the rebel Cammius, who once fought for Rome, leads a second barbarian army to attack the combined Legions of Rome from behind. Caesar dispatches his favorite general, Caius Rodius, to track through the untamed countryside, and bring back the rebel’s head. Who better to hunt Cammius, than the man who taught him the very skills he now uses to defy Rome? Tasked by a power-hungry leader he no longer trusts, to murder the man he raised as a son, Rodius questions whether the Roman “road of stone and blood” is a path he still wants to follow. 

THE LAST BATTLE, an 80-page full-color graphic novel of intense historic war fiction for $7.99, will be on sale in stores December 21, and will be available for order in the upcoming November issue of Previews.

ABOUT TITO FARACI

Tito Faraci is one of the most important Italian comics writers and an international success as well. After his beginning with the Walt Disney Company, he wrote for comics series like DYLAN DOG and DIABOLIK. Nowadays he writes TEX (a title selling hundreds of thousands of copies each month in Italy, and also published in many other countries). He has also written two stories for Marvel appearing in Europe: SPIDER-MAN and a DARE-DEVIL AND CAPTAIN AMERICA TEAM-UP.

ABOUT DAN BRERETON

Dan Brereton is an award-winning creator known for his lurid and sensational painted illustrations, depictions of monsters and dark material in the crime, fantasy and horror genres, and THE LAST BATTLE marks his  first foray into a truly period story. Ranging from comics and publishing to gaming, film and TV work.  Past clients include Disney TV Animation, CBS, Blizzard, Hasbro and Rob Zombie. He is also a writer and created such titles as NOCTURNALS and GIANTKILLER. He also co-created THE PSYCHO with James Hudnall. Past comics projects also include LEGENDS OF THE WORLD’S FINEST, THRILLKILLER, IMMORTAL IRON-FIST, THE PUNISHER, ULTIMATE MARVEL TEAM-UP, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, RED SONJA and VAMPIRELLA. Recently Image Comics released a hardcover retrospective monograph of over 2 decades of his work, entitled DANIEL BRERETON: THE GODDESS & THE MONSTER. For more information about Brereton and his work, visit www.nocturnals.com.

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.

Archaia Entertainment Sets a November Release Date for Marjane Satrapi’s The Sigh

Internationally Praised Fable by the Creator of Persepolis Makes its Long-Awaited U.S. Debut

For Immediate Release:

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA  (September 15, 2011)  - Award-winning graphic novel publisher, Archaia Entertainment, has set a November release date for the English-language version of The Sigh, a fable from Marjane Satrapi, acclaimed author behind the international bestseller, Persepolis, it was announced today by Mark Smylie, Chief Creative Officer of Archaia Entertainment.

Following its debut in France and Spain, U.S. fans of Satrapi’s work have waited patiently for The Sigh to arrive in the U.S. The Sigh follows Rose, one of three daughters of a rich merchant who always brings gifts for his girls from the market. One day Rose asks for the seed of a blue bean, but her father fails to find one for her. She lets out a sigh in resignation, and her sigh attracts the Sigh, a mysterious being that brings the seed she desired to the merchant. But every debt has to be paid, and every gift has a price, and the Sigh returns a year later to take the merchant’s daughter to a secret and distant palace.

The Sigh will be presented as a 6” x 8” hardcover, featuring 56 pages of text and beautifully hand-drawn color illustrations. The Sigh will release with a retail price of $10.95.

 

“The Sigh is a timeless fairytale that promises to capture the imaginations of readers both young and old,” said Smylie. “Marjane is one of those rare writers who has the ability to connect with readers on a global scale and we are proud to bring this story to the U.S.”

Following the publication of Persepolis, a dramatic illustrated account of her experiences in Iran during the Islamic Revolution, Marjane Satrapi has captured the hearts of people throughout the world. Along with The Sigh, her other projects include her second feature film Chicken with Plums. Based on her graphic novel of the same name, Chicken with Plums is currently causing a stir with attendees at the Venice Film Festival.

Drawing upon its past success with publishing foreign graphic novels for English-speaking readers, such as The Killer, Okko and The Secret History, Archaia is positioning The Sigh as the vanguard of a new wave of foreign titles it will be publishing in the next several months.

About Archaia Entertainment

Archaia is a multi-award-winning graphic novel publisher with more than 50 renowned publishing brands, including such domestic and international hits as Mouse Guard, Return of the Dapper Men, Gunnerkrigg Court, Awakening, The Killer, Days Missing, Tumor, Syndrome, Artesia, Engineer, and an entire line of The Jim Henson Company graphic novels. Archaia has built an unparalleled reputation for producing meaningful content that perpetually transforms minds, building one of the industry’s most visually stunning and eclectic slates of graphic novels. Archaia was named Graphic Novel Publisher of the Year according to Ain’t it Cool News, Graphic Policy, and Comic Related, and was honored with nine 2011 Eisner Awards nominations. Archaia has also successfully emerged as a prolific storyteller in all facets of the entertainment industry, extending their popular brands into film, television, gaming, and branded digital media.

MORTAL KOMBAT SELLS OVER THREE MILLION UNITS WORLDWIDE

Latest Release from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment is the Most Successful Console Game for the Iconic Franchise

Burbank, Calif. – September  15, 2011 – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment today announces Mortal Kombat, the latest iteration of the legendary fighting franchise, has sold over three million units worldwide, making it the highest-selling fighting game this year.

Mortal Kombat, developed by NetherRealm Studios, led by Mortal Kombat creator and creative director Ed Boon, launched on PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft in April 2011. In addition to the full game available at retail, downloadable content (DLC) has been released for the game offering four warriors, including the return of fan favorites Skarlet, Kenshi and Rain and an all-new competitor in the coliseum - legendary dream stalker Freddy Krueger - who now features two vicious bladed gloves. Each DLC character comes with his or her own move set, arcade ladder story ending, and two deadly fatalities.

“We are very pleased with the success of Mortal Kombat, as it surpassed our expectations in becoming the #1 fighting game  in North America released so far this year,” said Martin Tremblay, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “NetherRealm Studios delivered a high quality game which has exceeded our sales goals. We'd like to thank our entire team and all of our partners for their innovative campaigns and tremendous support of Mortal Kombat, as the game sales continue to grow."

“All of us at NetherRealm Studios are very excited that players have embraced Mortal Kombat. The game was a labor of love for us and we could not be more pleased with its performance,” said Ed Boon, Creative Director, NetherRealm Studios. “Fan reaction to this latest installment has made all of our hard work worth it.”

Mortal Kombat is a triumphant return to the game’s original mature presentation offering over-the-top fatalities and cringe-worthy X-ray moves. Going back to a 2D fighting plane, this latest iteration in the franchise introduces a number of new game-play features including Tag Team, Challenge Tower, and a deep story mode. Players can choose from an extensive lineup of the game’s iconic warriors and challenge their friends in traditional 1 vs. 1 matches, or take on several players in the new online King of the Hill mode.

The legendary fighting game is now available in North America for $59.99 on the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360.

For more information about Mortal Kombat, please visit www.themortalkombat.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mortalkombat or on Twitter @MK_Mortalkombat

A RACE OF GENETICALLY MODIFED HUMANS BATTLES

GENOCIDE AND EXTINCTION IN THE CAGE OF ZEUS,
NEW FROM VIZ MEDIA’S HAIKASORU IMPRINT

Award-Winning Author Sayuri Ueda Delivers A Kinetic Action Story With A Distinctly Japanese View Of Gender Politics

San Francisco, CA, September 14, 2011 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, has announced the release of the newest novel to be published under its popular Haikasoru imprint. THE CAGE OF ZEUS, by author Sayuri Ueda, will debut on September 20^th and will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN. The eBook edition will also debut the same day on the Amazon Kindle, the Apple’s iBooks Store and the Sony Reader Store for $8.99.

Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

THE CAGE OF ZEUS introduces readers to the Rounds, humans with the sex organs of both genders. Artificially created to test the limits of the human body in space, the Rounds are a minority, despised and hunted by the terrorist group, Vessel of Life. Aboard Jupiter-I, a space station orbiting the gas giant that shares its name, the Rounds have created their own society with a radically different view of gender and of life itself. Security chief Shirosaki keeps the peace between the Rounds and the typically gendered “Monaurals,” but when a terrorist strike hits the station, the balance of power and tolerance is at risk...and an entire people is targeted for genocide.

“Sayuri Ueda is one of Japan’s most interesting new science fiction authors, and her work has won or been nominated for a number of awards,” says Haikasoru Editor Nick Mamatas. “THE CAGE OF ZEUS delivers an optimum mix of hard science fiction and thriller, combined with a distinctly Japanese view of gender politics, and the future of humanity itself.”

Born in Hyogo Prefecture, Sayuri Ueda is one of the most innovative science fiction authors in Japan. She won the 2003 Komatsu Sakyo Award with her debut novel, Mars Dark Ballade. Her second novel, The Cage of Zeus, was originally published in 2004. Her recent short fiction collection, Fish Boat, Animal Boat, was highly acclaimed in the sci-fi community and was nominated for the 2009 prestigious Japan SF Award. Ueda has also been nominated for the Seiun Award in the short story category for The Grave of the Bird. Her latest novel, The Ocean Chronicles, won the first prize of Best Science Fiction 2010 in SF Magazine and was one of the most noteworthy books of the year in any genre.

For more information on CAGE OF ZEUS and the Haikasoru imprint, please visit the dedicated website at www.haikasoru.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and INUYASHA, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

Use the Force For Good!

Lucasfilm Launches Initiative to Benefit Stand Up To Cancer 

Campaign features celebrity fans celebrating their favorite Star Wars™ moments, an eBay charity auction offering one-of-a-kind items and a rare experience, an exclusive line of t-shirts as well as support from Major League Baseball

San Francisco, CALIF – Sept. 15, 2011 – Lucasfilm announced today that in celebration of the September launch of Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray, it is linking up with celebrities, eBay and Major League Baseball to ask fans to Use the Force for Good to support Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C). SU2C funds groundbreaking cancer research that will get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives.

“Lucasfilm joining with eBay, Major League Baseball and a wonderful group of actors is an amazing force for good being brought to bear in Stand Up To Cancer’s fight against this disease, and we are profoundly grateful,” said SU2C Co-Founder Sue Schwartz. “With one in two men and one in three women diagnosed in their lifetimes, cancer affects us all.  SU2C’s mission is to persuade each and every person to support the scientists working to end cancer, and this initiative gives legions of Star Wars fans fun and easy ways to do that.”

The campaign will launch today with a video featuring celebrity Star Wars enthusiasts encouraging fans to Use the Force for Good and join Lucasfilm in donating to Stand Up To Cancer.  SU2C Ambassadors Aziz Ansari, Zach Galifianakis, Bill Hader, Ed Helms, Ken Jeong, Jaime King, Seth Rogen, Andy Samberg and Emma Stone – along with Star Wars alum Samuel L. Jackson – will each Use the Force for Good as they recreate classic Star Wars scenes to raise awareness for cancer research.  The all-star video tribute appears on the Star Wars YouTube channel youtube.com/starwars.

Also, eBay will use the Force of its 97 million active members to give fans an online destination for browsing unique and special Star Wars items: ebay.com/usetheforceforgood.  The destination will allow fans to bid on rare and exclusive items like a one-of-a-kind Star Wars edition 2012 Volkswagen Passat and a once-in-a-lifetime experience; dinner with prominent Bay Area filmmakers George Lucas, Chris Columbus, Francis Ford Coppola, Philip Kaufman and John Lasseter. All charity auctions will begin on September 16^th at 4:00 p.m. PDT, and continue until 4:00 p.m. PDT on September 23^rd.

Star Wars and SU2C have also created a Stand Up To Cancer line of Star Wars t-shirts.  The tees will feature iconic Star Wars artwork alongside SU2C’s signature upward arrows, with slogans like “Blast Cancer” and “Use the Force for Good.”  The exclusive tees are available now and can be purchased through the end of the year at store.standup2cancer.org/shop with proceeds benefitting SU2C.

Then, throughout the month of September, select Major League Baseball Clubs across the country will feature Stand Up To Cancer/Star Wars themed nights in their respective ballparks. The special events will offer Star Wars themed ticket packages with a portion of proceeds benefitting SU2C. Most packages will include appearances by Star Wars costumed characters, VIP fan photo ops, giveaways and the Star Wars Stand Up To Cancer exclusive t-shirts. For a list of participating Clubs, game schedules and ticket information, please visit MLB.com/StarWars. Since its launch, Stand Up To Cancer has grown significantly with support from players, fans and all 30 MLB Clubs. Major League Baseball was a founding donor to Stand Up To Cancer in 2008, and has donated more than $30 million to the groundbreaking research organization since its inception. 

“We are thrilled to be using the launch of Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray as a call to action for our fans to Use the Force for Good,” said Kayleen Walters, Senior Director of Marketing at Lucasfilm. “We are happy to use the power of Star Wars to support this noble cause.”

About Stand Up To Cancer

Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) -- a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a 501(c) (3) charitable organization -- raises funds to accelerate the pace of groundbreaking translational research that can get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives. SU2C facilitates collaboration among the best and the brightest in the cancer research community. The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and a Scientific Advisory Committee led by Nobel Laureate Phillip A. Sharp, Ph.D., conduct rigorous, competitive review processes through which SU2C’s grantees are selected. By galvanizing the entertainment industry, SU2C generates awareness and builds grassroots support for this new approach to ending cancer.

To view the recently televised Stand Up To Cancer fundraising special, please visit: www.su2c.org/2010show. For general information, please visit www.su2c.org.

About eBay

Founded in 1995 in San Jose, Calif., eBay Inc. (NASDAQ:EBAY) is about connecting buyers and sellers. We do so through eBay, the world’s largest online marketplace, which allows users to buy and sell on eBay platforms in nearly every country on earth; through PayPal, which enables individuals and businesses to securely, easily and quickly send and receive online payments; and through GSI Commerce, which facilitates ecommerce, multichannel retailing and digital marketing for global enterprises. We also reach millions through specialized marketplaces such as StubHub, the world’s largest ticket marketplace, and eBay classifieds sites, which together have a presence in more than 1,000 cities around the world. For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebayinc.com.

About Major League Baseball                                                                                                                                                      Major League Baseball (MLB) is the oldest professional sports league in the United States and consists of 30 member Clubs in the U.S. and Canada representing the highest level of professional baseball. Under the guidance of its ninth Commissioner, Allan H. (Bud) Selig, MLB has experienced dramatic changes including Interleague Play, the introduction of the Wild Card, a more comprehensive drug-testing program, significant revenue sharing among the Clubs and a growth in revenue from $1.2 billion in 1992 to $7 billion in 2010. The last seven seasons have been the best attended in MLB history with each year, including 2010, eclipsing the 73 million mark. In addition, 14 Clubs saw double digit percentage increases in their local television ratings. With the continued success of MLB Network and MLB Advanced Media and the 2011 launch of the MLB Fan Cave, MLB continues to find innovative ways for its fans to enjoy the National Pastime. For more information on Major League Baseball, visit MLB.com. 

WITCH DOCTOR RESUSCITATES HORROR

Seifert & Ketner Present Witch Doctor: The Resuscitation One Shot

Berkeley, CA – 14 September 2011 – Robert Kirkman's Skybound imprint at Image Comics introduced WITCH DOCTOR earlier this year among showers of praise from critics, prompting i09 to describe it as "eminently entertaining" and Fangoria to dub the series “a superbly smart and riveting medical thriller."

Much to fans' delight at San Diego's Comic-Con in July, newcomers Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner announced that the summer’s medical horror smash hit will return this December with a one shot tale of black magic and organ-swapping in the upcoming WITCH DOCTOR: THE RESUSCITATION.

"I've got a huge list of story ideas for WITCH DOCTOR — and THE RESUSCITATION is one I've been looking forward to doing for years," said Seifert. "It's fun and strange, and it does the trick of being a good introduction to the series while also setting the stage for our next storyline. And on top of that, Lukas gets to draw some really awesome monsters and stuff, which is pretty much the point of doing this series!"

"We're excited to expand on the first miniseries, and this story definitely hits some new high notes," added Ketner. "If you love reading about the supernatural as much as I love drawing it, then you won't want to miss this... or the rest of the series!"

Offering a great jumping on point for new readers, WITCH DOCTOR: THE RESUSCITATION will ask important questions of its readers. For instance, if you wake up in a bathtub of ice with a surgical incision on your side, but the hospital says you’ve still got two kidneys, where do you go for a second opinion? To the expert, Dr. Vincent Morrow, WITCH DOCTOR, of course!

WITCH DOCTOR: THE RESUSCITATION, a 32-page full-color medical horror one shot comic for $2.99, will be on sale in stores December 14 and will be available for order in the upcoming October issue of Previews.

ABOUT ROBERT KIRKMAN

Robert Kirkman is a New York Times bestselling author known for being the cultural zeitgeist of the comic book industry. Following the grassroots success of the self-published BATTLE POPE (2000), Kirkman caught the eye of Image Comics founding partner Erik Larsen. After several short-term projects (SUERPATRIOT and TECHJACKET), he achieved superstar status in 2003 with INVINCIBLE and THE WALKING DEAD. During a subsequent stint at Marvel Comics, he gained many new fans with the haunting and hilarious Marvel Zombies. MTV translated Kirkman's INVINCIBLE into a motion comic -- one of the first in a growing industry trend. Kirkman's SKYBOUND imprint, under the Image Comics umbrella, is committed to fostering up-and-coming talent in the industry, and all acquisitions are hand-picked by Kirkman himself. Kirkman won the 2010 Eisner Award for Best Continuing Series for THE WALKING DEAD. AMC's interpretation of the comic has received glowing reviews from critics and fans alike, and continues to garner the highest ratings for the network, making it a game changer for groundbreaking television on cable. For more information about Skybound, visit www.skybound.com.

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.