VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF NEW SHONEN JUMP SERIES SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN

A Young Orphan Borrows Demonic Power to Battle Bloodthirsty Vampires That Have Enslaved The Earth

San Francisco, CA, May 14, 2014 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, delivers a new manga (graphic novel) title straight from the pages of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP as it announces the print and digital launch on June 3^rd of the apocalyptic vampire series, SERAPH OF THE END.

The series, illustrated by Yamato Yamamoto with story by Takaya Kagami and storyboards by Daisuke Furuya, will be published under the Shonen Jump Advanced imprint, is rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens, and will carry an MSRP of $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN. The debut volume also features a fold-out full-color poster, as well as revealing author commentary. Future volumes of the continuing series are scheduled to be published domestically 3 times a year.

A digital version of SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN will also launch on June 3^rd for $6.99 (USD/CAN) on VIZManga.com and through the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad^®, iPhone^® and iPod^® touch, and Android-powered smart phones. It will also be available  through the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks and GooglePlay stores.

After trumpets of the apocalypse proclaim the fall of humanity, vampires arise from the shadows to rule the earth. Yuichiro wants just one thing – to get revenge by killing each and every vampire. Yuichiro’s dream is near-impossible, given that vampires are seven times stronger than humans, and the only way to kill them is by mastering Cursed Gear, advanced demon-possessed weaponry. Not to mention that humanity’s most elite Vampire Extermination Unit, the Moon Demon Company, wants nothing to do with Yuichiro unless he can prove he’s willing to work in a team – which is the last thing he wants!

The latest chapters of SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN are also currently serialized in VIZ Media’s WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP digital manga anthology, alongside legendary series such as BLEACH, NARUTO and ONE PIECE.

“SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN is a gripping story that depicts a stark future where a catastrophic epidemic has killed off every adult on Earth leaving behind a population of children that have been enslaved by murderous vampires,” says Hope Donovan, Editor. “The title has thrilled North American fans in WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and we’re very excited to release full volumes digitally and in print. We went all-out for this one, so don’t miss the debut of this new must-read series in June!”

SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN illustrator Yamato Yamamoto is an artist and illustrator whose works include the Kure-nai manga and the light novels Kure-nai, 9S -Nine S- and Denpa Teki na Kanojo light novels. Both Denpa Teki na Kanojo and Kure-nai have been adapted into anime.

Takaya Kagami is a prolific light novelist whose works include the action and fantasy series The Legend of the Legendary Heroes, which has been adapted into manga, anime and a video game. His previous series A Dark Rabbit Has Seven Lives also spawned a manga and anime series.

SERAPH OF THE END: VAMPIRE REIGN writer Daisuke Furuya previously assisted Yamato Yamamoto with storyboards for Kure-nai.

For more information on SERAPH OF THE END, or other manga titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC

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

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OWARI NO SERAPH © 2012 by Takaya Kagami, Yamato Yamamoto, Daisuke Furuya /SHUEISHA Inc.

The World Of Skylanders® Comes to Comics Activision And IDW Announce First-Ever Skylanders Comic Book   San Diego, Calif. (May 15, 2014) – In conjunction with Activision, IDW Publishing is proud to announce the first-ever Skylanders comic-book series, penned by renowned comic-book writer Ron Marz with Mike Bowden and David Baldeon as lead artists. In the world of video games, Skylanders is a global phenomenon and the best-selling kids’ game franchise since its launch in 2011.1 Now fans have the opportunity to follow the adventures of all their favorite characters from Skylands through the magic of comic books. The first issue, a prequel to the Skylanders Trap Team™ storyline, actually provides fans an inside look at where some of their favorite Skylanders came from, and even gives them a first look at a few all-new characters from the upcoming game. IDW Publishing has been known for the quality and care given to some of the most beloved all-ages properties, and Skylanders is no different. The videogame sensation is making the leap to the pages of comics this July, debuting at Comic-Con International: San Diego 2014. Skylanders #0 features an introductory 16-page story as well as character guides and additional back-up information. The issue will be launched in both print and digital during SDCC weekend.  “We are thrilled to be combining Skylanders, the pioneer of the toys to life video game genre, with IDW, one of the industry’s leading comic-book publishers in the U.S.,” said Ashley Maidy, vice president of global licensing and partnerships at Activision. “The comic-book series will offer fans a glimpse into the backstories of their favorite Skylanders characters, expanding on the universe that they’ve embraced so enthusiastically in the franchise’s short history. To explore the world of Skylands beyond the game is an opportunity we know our fans have long been awaiting, and we couldn’t be more excited to see this manifested through a comic series.” Skylanders will also join IDW’s successful Micro Comic Fun Packs line-up this fall and will be available in comic-book stores as well as mass-market retailers this October. Distribution is expected in the following territories: United States, Canada, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.   “The idea behind creating a Skylanders comic book series resonates strongly with us on so many levels – the storyline and audience appeals to the comic book world and feels like a seamless relationship,” says David Hedgecock, IDW’s Managing Editor and Editor of the Skylanders series. “We’re honored to be the publisher of choice to introduce the world of Skylanders into the comic-book landscape.” The world of Skylanders continues at IDW and whether you like your comics large, small or digital, we have you are covered! About Activision Publishing Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, Singapore, mainland China, Hong Kong and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company’s website, www.activision.com.  Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing’s expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including statements about the expected release date of the Skylanders comic series are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing’s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include unanticipated product delays and other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. 1Based on revenue, according to The NPD Group, GfK Media Control® and Activision internal estimates, including toys and accessories, life to date

About IDW Publishing IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE and MY LITTLE PONY; Paramount’s Star Trek; Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; 2000AD’s Judge Dredd; The Rocketeer; Toho’s Godzilla; Wizards of the Coast’s Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons; and the Eisner-Award winning Locke & Key series, created by best-selling author Joe Hill and artist Gabriel Rodriguez. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints, Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio, and the multiple award-winning Artist's Edition imprint. IDW’s critically- and fan-acclaimed series are continually moving into new mediums. Currently, Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Disney are creating a feature film based on World War Robot; Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Warner Brothers are producing a film based on Ashley Wood's Lore; Michael Bay‘s Platinum Dunes and Sony are bringing Zombies vs. Robots to film, Kurtzman/Orci are producing a movie based on Locke & Key at Universal.

A NEW BEGINNING
FOR THE INDUSTRY'S BIGGEST FRANCHISE
THE WALKING DEAD #127 sells out instantly
and rushes back to press

The 127th issue of the bestselling ongoing series THE WALKING DEAD sold out instantly at the distributor level and will be immediately rushed to a second printing to meet customer demand.

On the heels of Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard’s conclusion to the epic All Out War story arc, this issue marks a new beginning for the hit series and has left longtime fans and new readers alike eager to know what happens next. “This ‘new beginning’ was a big risk for us, and it's extremely gratifying to see how well it's been received,” said Kirkman. “It's good to know that despite so many changes in the book, the devotion of its readers hasn't changed at all.”

Despite being the bestselling franchise in the industry according to Diamond Distributors, a fixture of the New York Times bestseller list for numerous consecutive weeks, and having a hit cable television show on AMC of the same name, the series remains under-ordered within the direct market a stunning 10 years and 127 issues after its debut.

“It’s always frustrating when a bonafide hit like The Walking Dead sells out,” said Eric Stephenson, Publisher at Image Comics. “When we sell out, stores can’t sell the book, and readers can’t get it—we all suffer. In the time it takes to reprint a book like The Walking Dead #127, we’re all left waiting weeks, and it just winds up being a missed opportunity. That said, we are making it easier for retailers to restock this issue, while also making sure they don’t sell out of the next one quite so quickly.”

THE WALKING DEAD #127 has completely sold out at the distributor level, but may still be available in comic stores. The digital version is currently available DRM-free on the Image Comics website (imagecomics.com), plus it can be downloaded from Comixology on the web (comixology.com), Apple iOS, Android, and Google Play.

Image Comics is sending this 127th issue back to print to meet customer demand, but it will not be reprinted again. The second printing of THE WALKING DEAD #127 (Diamond Code APR148156) will release on 6/11.

THE WALKING DEAD #128 will release on 6/11 and can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code APR140615. This will be the only printing of this issue.

“We want retailers to join us in making The Walking Dead #127 the last issue we reprint for this series,” noted Stephenson. “This is the beginning of the 22nd arc for one of the most successful comic series of all time, and it shouldn’t be news to anyone that this is a solid seller, on an issue-to-issue basis. We’re going to do our part by making this series easier than ever for retailers to support, but after that, it’s up to them to make sure every issue is available to as many readers who want the book, month-in and month-out.”

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

ABOUT SKYBOUND

Skybound is the home of Robert Kirkman's creator-owned work including his Eisner Award-winning comic book series, The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, all-ages Super Dinosaur, Thief of Thieves, and Clone as well as Ghosted, Witch Doctor and Invincible Universe. Since its inception, Skybound has created television shows, merchandise and a wide spectrum of platforms, games (The Walking Dead: Assault iOS app), and entertainment events (The Walking Dead Escape). Skybound's successes include the comic behind the hit Emmy®-winning television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 122 countries and 37 languages. Skybound/Kirkman frequently top the hardcover and paperback bestseller lists. Your destinations for all news and merchandise from Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and allSkybound titles are www.Skybound.com and www.TheWalkingDead.com

CULLEN BUNN AND VANESA R. DEL REY
SET TO BLAME IT ALL ON
'THE EMPTY MAN'

THE EMPTY MAN #1 Cover A by Vanesa R. Del Rey


THE EMPTY MAN #1 Cover B by Goñi Montes
 

May 14,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - When you think of a good horror story, you might imagine some kind of monster, like the werewolves of CURSE or the nightmare fuel of CLIVE BARKER'S HELLRAISER. However, some of the scariest stories are the ones that hit home—stories that are just realistic enough to make you wonder if it really could happen. This June, BOOM! Studios plays on those fears with THE EMPTY MAN, a dystopic version of the world we know, where a terrifying disease has taken on almost deific connotations and has inspired a wave of murder cults. People are killing each other and themselves, and the same words keep popping up: “The Empty Man made me do it.” Writer Cullen Bunn (The Sixth Gun, Magneto) and artist Vanesa R. Del Rey (HIT) are two of the most exciting talents in the industry, and perfectly in sync on this haunting new crime procedural.

“My favorite horror stories are of the grounded variety, balancing terror with real-world human concerns,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “The disease and investigation that are at the heart of THE EMPTY MAN completely hit that mark. Combining a bit of J-horror and a bit of the police procedural, Cullen Bunn and Vanesa R. Del Rey—both visionaries in their own right—have crafted a gripping story that explores some of our darkest fears.”

It’s been one year since the first reported case of the Empty Man disease, and no drug has been able to slow its progress. The cause is unknown, and the symptoms include fits of rage, hideous hallucinations, suicidal dementia, followed by death, or a near lifeless, "empty" state of catatonia. As murder cults rise nationwide, the FBI and CDC enter a  joint investigation of the Empty Man, hoping to piece together clues to stop the cult and uncover a cure.

THE EMPTY MAN #1 arrives in comic shops on June 11th with a cover price of $3.99 under Diamond order code APR140958. The main cover is illustrated by series artist Vanesa R. Del Rey, with an incentive cover available in a limited quantity from Goñi Montes (CLIVE BARKER’S NEXT TESTAMENT). Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one! It’s also available for order directly from boom-studios.com.

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

NEW SERIES A STROKE OF PURE GENIUS
What if the next great military mind
was a teenaged girl from South Central?

From writers Marc Bernardin and Adam Freeman (Alphas, X-Men Origins: Nightcrawler, The Authority, The Highwaymen), rising-star artist Afua Richardson, and Top Cow’s Minotaur Press comes GENIUS. A harrowing, action-packed tale of a city that declares war on a brilliant young woman pushed to the edge. Complete in five parts, every issue of GENIUS will ship weekly in August.

What if the greatest military mind of our generation was born to a people who are already supremely conditioned to wage war, who know nothing but violence since birth, and must continually adapt to new predators in order to survive? What if the second coming of Alexander the Great, of Genghis Khan, of Napoleon, of Patton...what if it was a teenaged girl from South Central, L.A. named Destiny? And what if she decides to secede three blocks of the ‘hood from the Union? Who is going to take it back from her and her army of gangbangers? Who CAN?

"We're thrilled to be part of Image's roster of the new and different,” said Bernardin. “This story—about an urban revolutionary's war on systemic injustice—is one Adam and I have been wanting to tell for a very long time."

All five issues of GENIUS will be available weekly, throughout August. GENIUS #1 arrives in stores on 8/6 for $3.99. It is available to pre-order with Diamond Code JUN140478. Issue #2 will be available on 8/13 with Diamond Code JUN140479, #3 will be available on 8/20 with Diamond Code JUN140480, #4 will be available  on 8/27 with Diamond Code JUN140481, and #5 will be available on 8/27 with Diamond Code JUN140482.

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

IDW’S KILLOGY IN DEVELOPMENT FOR ANIMATED TV SERIES 

From The Executive Producer of The Boondocks and Everybody Hates Chris 

 

New York, NY (May 14, 2014) – Award-winning executive producer/writer Rodney Barnes (The Boondocks, Everybody Hates Chris) teams up with acclaimed comics creator Alan Robert to develop an animated television series based on Robert’s hit IDW Publishing graphic novel Killogy. Barnes and Robert will serve as executive producers on the series, with Barnes penning the screenplay for the pilot. Celebrities Frank Vincent (Goodfellas, Casino, The Sopranos), Marky Ramone (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, the Ramones) and Brea Grant (Heroes, Dexter), who all appeared as main characters in the graphic novel, will now lend their voices to the show. Producers Chris White (My Super Psycho Sweet 16 franchise) and Jeff Mazzola (Descent) are also on board.

Killogy leverages a unique mix of humor, horror and pop culture to tell the unique tale of a group of murderers who inadvertently unleash an ancient voodoo curse upon New York. “For me, it’s all a bit surreal,” says Robert. “I basically get to mash-up some of my favorite childhood heroes, throw them into these outrageous situations, and sit back and imagine what happens next. The series practically writes itself!”

Additionally, Ex-Misfits horror-punk legend Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein will star in a special Halloween edition of Killogy. The one-shot comic 

continues where the graphic novel left off. It introduces new character, Doyle, as humanity’s last hope in a post-apocalyptic world flooded by an ocean of blood. Thebook will also feature a 10-page exclusive first-look at Robert’s forthcoming IDW series The Shunned One.

Killogy was nominated for Best Mini-Series at the 2013 

Ghastly Awards and picked up a Horror

Comic Award for Best Scene from ComicMonsters.com. Bloody Disgusting listed Killogy at #4 on their Top 10 Best Mini-Series of 2013. The Killogy graphic novel was recently licensed out to territories outside of the U.S. and will see a Brazilian release this summer from publisher NFL ZINE. The book will be translated in Portuguese. Visit the official website for more info:

http://www.killogycomic.com


About Alan Robert
Alan Robert is best known for being the primary-songwriter and bassist for the respected hard rock group Life of Agony for over two decades. LOA recorded several studio albums for Epic/Sony and Roadrunner Records developing a cult following in the process. The band has shared the stage with the biggest names in rock, including Metallica, Black Sabbath, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers. The group has headlined to audiences as large as 500,000 people in Europe and will appear on several festival dates this summer.

 

In recent years, Robert has made quite the name for himself in the world of comics with three critically acclaimed series under his belt; Wire Hangers (2010), Crawl to Me (2012), and Killogy (2013). Robert’s much anticipated The Shunned One is expected for a 2015 release. His hit series Crawl to Me is in development to become a live-action feature from the makers of The Orphanage. Barcelona-based Rodar y Rodar will produce along with Robert’s production company Wasted Talent Entertainment, based on a screenplay written by TJ Cimfel and David White.

For more information about Alan Robert, visit: http://www.alanrobert.com
Follow Alan Robert on Twitter: @arobert
 

THE PERFECT NEW SERIES
FOR WAYWARD BUFFY FANS
Can Rori unlock the secret to her powers in time to fight mythological monsters?

Writer Jim Zub (SKULLKICKERS, Samurai Jack) teams up with penciler Steve Cummings (Legends of the Dark Knight, Deadshot) and color artist John Rauch (INVINCIBLE) to create a Buffy the Vampire Slayer for a new generation in WAYWARD, coming from Image Comics in August.

Rori Lane is an outsider by nature, but moving to Tokyo to live with her single Mom has only exacerbated her weirdness. She's feeling out of sorts, worried about fitting in and, as if that wasn’t enough, strange things are beginning to happen. Glowing symbols and patterns are starting to appear before her eyes… and she's the only one who seems to notice. 

"Wayward is a coming-of-age story filled with mystery and emotion. It's also an ass-kicking joy ride with teenagers beating the hell out of Japanese mythological monsters,” said Zub. “Steve and I built this series from the ground up to play to both our strengths. I can't wait for people to see what we have planned.”

In WAYWARD a group of teens living in Tokyo find a common bond in manifesting strange, supernatural abilities. As they begin to unravel the mystery behind their powers and their common source they're drawn into a war with the vestiges of Japan’s monstrous mythic past. 

WAYWARD #1 arrives in stores on 8/27, and will be available for $3.50 with special variant covers by Alina Urusov (Birds of Prey), Jeff "Chamba" Cruz (Street Fighter), and Adam Warren (Empowered).

MORNING GLORIES' JOE EISMA JOINS THE 'EVIL EMPIRE'
 

EVIL EMPIRE #5 Cover by Jay Shaw
 

May 14,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - Industry pro Joe Eisma (Morning Glories) is turning to the Dark Side! Okay, not really. But he is coming onboard as a guest artist on EVIL EMPIRE #5, a special stand-alone issue of the ongoing series from BOOM! Studios, written by Say Anything frontman Max Bemis (POLARITY), coming in July.

You know how sometimes in stories, the bad guys are already in power and it’s up to the hero/heroine to take them down? In EVIL EMPIRE—Max Bemis’ follow-up to last year’s hit debut, POLARITY—this is the story of how those bad guys rose into power, often under disturbing circumstances.

In EVIL EMPIRE #5, how does someone truly evil cope with the prevalence of evil in society? Ironically, a serial killer finds himself losing the impetus to kill now that it's no longer dangerous or taboo.

“I’m a huge fan of Joe’s stunning art on Morning Glories,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “The same goes for Max, so as soon as we had an opportunity to work with Joe it was a no-brainer to have him draw a stand-alone story for EVIL EMPIRE. Believe me, the comic that Joe and Max have in store for you is sure to get some people talking.”

EVIL EMPIRE #5 is available to pre-order now under Diamond order code MAY141165. It arrives in comic shops on July 23rd with a cover price of $3.99. The issue ships with a cover by Jay Shaw. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one!

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: eigoMANGA Heads To FanimeCon 2014

San Francisco, California — May 14th, 2014 — eigoMANGA unveils it's event schedule for FanimeCon 2014 which is held on May 23–26, 2014 at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in San Jose, California.


- Vanguard Princess + eigoMANGA Industry Panel:

Colleagues from eigoMANGA will discuss new developments and future plans for the game as well as showcase new releases of the company's productions. Fanime 2014 will be the first convention where the team will make its official production announcements for 2015.

eigoMANGA's Industry Panel is scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2014 (3:00pm - 4:00pm) in Panel Room #3


- Vanguard Princess Hackathon:

eigoMANGA is organizing a 4-day Vanguard Princess Game Hackathon At FanimeCon. Fans, gamers, and hackers are invited to hack and develop content to improve the game. Participants will get access to developer tools, form a team, then hack away throughout FanimeCon.

Fanime attendees can register for the free Hackathon at http://www.VanguardPrincess.com/hackathon

The Hackathon begins on Friday, May 23, 2014 (4:00pm - 5:00pm) in Panel Room #3

Hackathon Schedule:

Day - 1 (Kickoff)
(4:00pm - 5:00pm)
Friday, May 23, 2014 in Panel Room #3

Day - 2 (Hack Day and Coach Support)
Saturday, May 24, 2014

Day - 3 (Demo Night)
(4:00pm - 5:00pm)
Sunday, May 25, 2014 in Panel Room #3

- Vanguard Princess Demo Night:

On Demo Night, Hackathon teams will present their demos to the public as well as a panel of judges. The best demos will win prizes.

The Hackathon begins on Friday, May 23, 2014 (4:00pm - 5:00pm) in Panel Room #3


About eigoMANGA:

eigoMANGA is a production and publishing company that specializes in creating original comic books, animation, and digital media. The company formed an independent game development studio in January 2011 to localize and publish independent Japanese games. More information about eigoMANGA can be found at www.eigoMANGA.com or www.VanguardPrincess.com

TALISMEN RETURNS FROM EXILE IN NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL

Full color fantasy graphic novel to be released in July

Ann Arbor, MI.  Talismen: Return of the Exile will be one of Caliber Comics’ initial releases and scheduled to hit comic shops in July, 2014.

The fantasy story tells the tale of Marine Corporal Ollie Steele who is about to be executed by terrorists when he finds himself magically transported to the Plane of Imaginings, the land where dreams and nightmares originate. In this  dreamland village, Ollie is told that  he has been there before, and that he is destined to save them from the neighboring realm of nightmares.  . There is also a young woman named Astrina who insists she and Ollie are destined to fall in love.  Ollie is in a world of imagination yet one that can be all too real.

Talismen will be relased as a full color graphic novel and is written by Steve Jones and illustrated by Barb Jones, the creator and co-writer.  It had originated years ago as a web comic and the graphic novel concludes the storyline and brings it together.  During iits online run, Talismen was nominated for the Web Cartoonist' Choice Award.

In addition to the graphic novel, Talismen will be supported by a young adult novel, Talismen: The Knightmare Knife which explores Ollie’s first excursion into the Plane when he was only twelve years old.  Both the graphic novel and young adult novel are designed as standalone stories.

Publisher Gary Reed feels that Talismen has a large potential audience, “it has a maturity about it although it is a young adult graphic novel. The writing fits perfectly and the art has a lot of appeal.  Barb does an excellent blend of manga and Disney with a little bit of Chuck Jones drawn in there.”  Reed said that the online comic is no longer available and hasn’t been for awhile but digital versions will be made available after the release of the book via Diamond Distributors.

The Diamond order code is MAY141238.  The full color graphic novel is $16.99.
Isbn: 978-0-9960306-1-8.  104 pages.

"A beautifully drawn fantasy with a cool contemporary twist."
- Aldin Baroza -- (Family Guy, Hey, Arnold! The Movie)

 "An engaging and entertaining tale. Harkens back to the glory days of Elfquest." - Phil Hester -- (Green Arrow, T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents)

 "Well-developed characters...great intrigue..."
- Dan Jurgens -- (Death Of Superman, 52)

About Caliber Comics: 
Caliber relaunched in February of 2014 after a hiatus since 2000.  In the 1990’s, they were one of the leading independent comic companies that helped to launch the careers of dozens of today’s top creators.  They offer a wide diverse line of books with emphasis on creator owned titles.

About Barb Jacobs:
Barb is the creator and artist on Talismen which ran as a webcomic before she started on her next series, Xyliatales.  Both have had successful runs but she had to reduce her workload in order to spend more time with her family.

About Steve Jones:
Steve has written for numerous companies including Eternity, Marvel, Adventure, IDW, Caliber, and more.  His comic titles include: Reanimator, Invader from Mars, Worlds of H.P. Lovecraft, and more.  He also teaches Comic Writing and has written a number of novels.  He also just released an index to the works of Clive Cussler.

NERDIST INDUSTRIES ANNOUNCES SITEWIDE REBOOT

New Mobile Optimized Nerdist.com Features Responsive Design, Intuitive Interface and Enhanced User Experience

May 14, 2014 – Burbank, CA – Nerdist Industries kicks off its next phase of development with an all-new website, new faces, and growth of its online fan community. The multi-platform content creator unveiled its new look on Nerdist.com, a dynamic viewing experience for both mobile and desktop users.

The facelift comes as the company continues to grow its editorial presence. The site, started in 2008 as a personal blog by comedian Chris Hardwick, has grown to become the hub of Nerdist Industries, which encompasses the Nerdist Podcast Network, premium YouTube channel, broadcast television production and live events.

Nerdist Founder and CEO Chris Hardwick’s continued dedication to growing the Nerdist brand has pushed the site toward record traffic month over month. On watching the growth, Hardwick had this to say, “Nerdist is that tangible thing that I can ACTUALLY watch get bigger and better. It means the world to me, and the community that continues to build around it blows me away.” 

As the focal point of the company’s digital entertainment efforts, the new site will have more user-friendly functionality allowing increased social interaction, as well as seamless loading of fresh content for the Nerdist reader’s insatiable hunger for pop-culture news. The company has brought together a Voltron-like team of Movies, TV, Gaming, Comics, Science, and Music Editors to combine to form an entertainment super robot.  Jessica Chobot will continue bringing the day’s biggest news to audiences on Nerdist News. Launching their own weekly series in the coming months, look for comics and entertainment coverage from Dan Casey, insight into the world of hardcore gaming with Malik Forte, and expand your brain-power by watching science personality Kyle Hill.

Nerdist’s celebration of fandom has attracted innumerable celebrities who want to connect with their fans with one-off comedy videos or regular series like All Star Celebrity Bowling, Neil’s Puppet Dreams and Blood & Guts with Scott Ian, all of which will see new episodes in the near future.

Nerdist will offer advertisers refreshing ways to reach their audience of lifestyle trendsetters. Its new platform will now allow for content targeting & video, which will enhance Nerdist’s robust opportunities for branded entertainment & live events.

From Bethesda’s latest triple AAA title Elder Scrolls Online to the summer blockbuster Godzilla, Nerdist continues to be ahead of the curve on what die-hard enthusiasts are looking for. Themed weeks, new video programming with the growing editorial team and plenty of engaging activations at the summer’s biggest events will continue to drive Nerdist.com’s editorial growth and unique position as the most outspoken proponent of pop culture.

ABOUT NERDIST:

Nerdist Industries is a multi-platform creator of genre and popular culture content. Founded by CEO Chris Hardwick, its online presence includes a website at Nerdist.com; a premium YouTube channel (youtube.com/nerdist) featuring Nerdist News hosted by Jessica Chobot; a combined 2.4 million Twitter followers; a Podcast Network including the flagship Nerdist Podcast; The Nerdist School comedy training program; and the Nerdist Alliance, a community of curated partnerships with some of YouTube's most talented and passionate creators.  Nerdist also produces content for television including @midnight for Comedy Central, All Star Celebrity Bowling for AMC and In the Name of Science for National Geographic Channel. Further, Nerdist hosts live events around the country such as The Nerdist Podcast Live! and Course of the Force, an annual lightsaber relay in partnership with Lucasfilm LTD.

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

ARCHAIA WANTS YOU TO GET HOOKED ON AN 'INTERESTING DRUG'
 

INTERESTING DRUG Cover by Scott Newman


INTERESTING DRUG Preview Page 1. Art by Anna Wieszczyk.


INTERESTING DRUG Preview Page 2. Art by Anna Wieszczyk. 


INTERESTING DRUG Preview Page 3. Art by Anna Wieszczyk. 

 

May 12,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - Nostalgia is a powerful force, but what happens when it becomes the hottest drug on the market? In May, Archaia, an award-winning  imprint of BOOM! Studios, shows us the dangers of getting stuck in the past with INTERESTING DRUG,  a new original graphic novel. This sci-fi story from writer Shaun Manning and artist Anna Wieszczyk (LUCID) is a tripped-out psychological thriller full of scrappy anti-heroes and some of the most villainous riffraff of all space and time.

“We’ve all had this thought at least once in our lives: If you could travel back in time and change your past, would you do it?” questioned BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “In INTERESTING DRUG, Shaun and Anna prove just how dangerous that line of thought can be.”

When a man from the future recruits average retail worker Andrew Smith to help him create a drug that will allow him to travel through time, Andrew thinks he’s found the way to erase all his problems. However, the power of nostalgia proves to be the strongest of drugs, creating an epidemic of addiction with Andrew as its unwitting kingpin.

The INTERESTING DRUG hardcover original graphic novel arrives from Archaia in comic shops on May 28th with a cover price of $24.99, under Diamond order code MAR140979. Not sure where to find your nearest  comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one! It’s also available for order directly from boom-studios.com.

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

'THE WOODS' #1 DIGS ITS ROOTS IN,
GETS A SECOND PRINTING

THE WOODS #1 2nd Print Cover by Michael Dialynas
 

May 12,  2014 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is excited to announce that the thrilling first issue of THE WOODS, the otherworldly mystery from writer James Tynion IV (Batman Eternal, Red Hood and the Outlaws) and artist Michael Dialynas (Amala’s Blade), has sold out at the distributor level on the day of its release. The publisher has rushed to a second printing.

“We knew we had something special on our hands when James first pitched us THE WOODS, but all of the praise we’ve received so far for the first issue has just been astonishing,” said BOOM! Studios Editor-In-Chief Matt Gagnon. “Whether it’s longtime comic fans, industry professionals, or brand-new readers, we’ve loved seeing this series reach a wide and diverse readership. That in and of itself is one of our missions as a company: reaching people from all walks of life and disparate interests and having them united by a powerful story. We need more new stories in comics that expand our audience. THE WOODS has that potential and we’re very proud of it.”

Comic book fans should bear in mind that first printings of THE WOODS #1 may still be found at the local comic shop nearest you. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use comicshoplocator.com or findacomicshop.com to find one!

In THE WOODS, on October 16, 2013, 437 students, 52 teachers, and 24 additional staff from Bay Point Preparatory High School in suburban Milwaukee, WI vanished without a trace. Countless light years away, far outside the bounds of the charted universe, 513 people find themselves in the middle of an ancient, primordial wilderness. Where are they? Why are they there? The answers will prove stranger than anyone could possibly imagine.

James Tynion IV honed his writing craft by working with one of the best writers in comics, Batman scribe Scott Snyder. Tynion's work in the Batman universe (Batman Eternal, Red Hood and the Outlaws, Talon) and on his Thrillbent comic, The Eighth Seal, made us eager to publish his first original comic series for print. THE WOODS gives us that same eerie, small-town horror feel we get whenever we read a Stephen King novel. If you’re a fan of teen conspiracy comics like Sheltered and Revival, you’ll immediately be sucked into THE WOODS.

Praise for THE WOODS #1:

"THE WOODS #1 is a solid read that goes from humorous to horrific at breakneck pace.” - Comic Book Resources

"The setup was fantastic—we get to meet nearly every person mentioned in BOOM!’s teasers, a solid setup, and the action kicks into gear fast. There’s no sacrifices here – there’s content and substance, and the end of the issue left me waiting for more. " - What’cha Reading?

"By the end of this first issue, you’ll be behind these characters like they’re friends of your own." - Newsarama

"THE WOODS is a fresh jolt of fun storytelling that gets right to the meat and delivers good, old fashioned horror and suspense. " - Rhymes With Geek

"Giving audiences a fresh story and a strong issue #1 is pretty difficult, but Tynion creates his world, moves you through it, and then pushes you head first into the story and I, for one, am all for it." - Coming Up Comics

THE WOODS #1 second print ships with a new cover by Michael Dialynas under Diamond Order Code APR148002 and carries a retail price of $3.99. It is anticipated to be on sale June 4th, the same day issue #2 is set to debut!
 

ABOUT BOOM! STUDIOS
Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey’s SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos’ FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis’ POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant’s graphic novel 2 GUNS was recently released as a feature film from Universal Pictures, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!’s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network’s ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel’s HEROBEAR AND THE KID, and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED. In June 2013, BOOM! acquired Archaia Entertainment (archaia.com). Archaia is the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning graphic novel publisher of MOUSE GUARD, COW BOY, GUNNERKRIGG COURT, RUST, SPERA, JIM HENSON’S TALE OF SAND, and many other great titles. In October 2013, BOOM! Studios entered into a unique first-look relationship with 20th Century Fox, giving the studio access to its library of titles and giving the publisher access to Fox's vast catalog of films.

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