Saturday, June 23, 2018

Sam Kieth returns with BATMAN/THE MAXX: ARKHAM DREAMS

 SAN DIEGO, CA and BURBANK, CA (June 21, 2018) – Batman must face the strangest adventure of his career as he meets the most bizarre hero in comics: The Maxx!

 
IDW Publishing and DC proudly welcome legendary artist Sam Kieth (The SandmanWolverine) back to his first Maxx story in over a decade, teaming his greatest creation with the Dark Knight for a mind-blowing five-issue miniseries event. The first issue of Batman / The Maxx: Arkham Dreams will debut this September with covers by Sam Kieth and Jim Lee.
 
“Doing a Batman and Maxx crossover is like a family reunion with my favorite brother and our really cool cousin,” says Sam Kieth. “You never want it to end… or at least I hope you won’t!”
 
When a devious new doctor at Arkham Asylum conducts unconventional forays into the human psyche, he kicks off a disastrous chain reaction by experimenting on Arkham’s newest patient: The Maxx! The city of Gotham soon begins to merge with the Outback, The Maxx’s psychedelic mental landscape. It’s up to Batman to save Gotham and all of reality… but only by joining The Maxx on a trip into the darkest depths imaginable: the twisted minds of Batman’s greatest enemies!
 
“It’s always a pleasure to work with Sam Kieth,” says editor Scott Dunbier. “He puts his heart and soul into his art, and gives you something truly unique in the process. We can’t wait for people to see this!"
 
For more information on purchasing copies of Batman / The Maxx: Arkham Dreams, contact your local comic shop or visit www.comicshoplocator.com to find a store near you. 
 

Book Review: ARTEMIS by Andy Weir

 

ARTEMIS  by Andy Weir. (Crown Books, November 2017) Hardcover, 305 pages.  ISBN #0553448129.

 

 

from the Goodreads website summary . . . . .

 

Jazz Bashara is a criminal.

 

Well, sort of. Life on Artemis, the first and only city on the moon, is tough if you're not a rich tourist or an eccentric billionaire. So smuggling in the occasional harmless bit of contraband barely counts, right? Not when you've got debts to pay and your job as a porter barely covers the rent.

 

Everything changes when Jazz sees the chance to commit the perfect crime, with a reward too lucrative to turn down. But pulling off the impossible is just the start of her problems, as she learns that she's stepped square into a conspiracy for control of Artemis itself—and that now, her only chance at survival lies in a gambit even riskier than the first. 

 

 

my review from the Goodreads website . . . . .

 

     I usually root for the underdog. When I first heard of Andy Weir he was a self-published author who just landed a publishers deal for The Martian. That only happens to a very small number of self-published authors. I made a note to read it. 

 

     Then the hype machine took off and I was hearing about The Martian everywhere I turned, which usually moves things lower on my to-read list (maybe I'm jealous). Then I saw the movie, which was great, and decided I didn't need to read the book. After finishing Artemis, I'm thinking about reading that first novel.

     Forget the hype. Andy Weir is the real deal. Artemis is a great read, deserving of more recognition as a benchmark work of science-fiction. 

 

     Weir has an ability to make the science not only plausible but also easier for the layman to understand and follow. He knows how to research a subject. His colony on the moon seems very realistic. He flavors this with some unique and fascinating characters, especially the sarcastic and engaging female smuggler (Jazz), whom the story revolves around. Add an action thriller with political undertones and the result is a very absorbing read.


Friday, June 22, 2018

STAR TREK vs TRANSFORMERS crossover announced

 
from the IDW Publishing press release . . . . .

The Five-Year Mission Collides with Autobot and Decepticon Warfare!


SAN DIEGO, CA (June 21, 2018) – The starship Enterprise finds there's more to the final frontier when Kirk and his crew come face-to-face with the strangest life forms of all: the shape-changing robots of Cybertron! Prepare to beam up and roll out this September with Star Trek vs. Transformers, a four-issue comic book crossover that is more than meets the eye and is inspired by the continuities of two iconic cartoon shows: Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973) and The Transformers (1984).

Two of the most prolific Transformers and Star Trek comic book writers -- John Barber and Mike Johnson -- team with artist Philip Murphy and colorist Leonardo Ito to tell the story that fans have demanded for decades. At the edge of Klingon space, the Enterprise answers a distress call, discovering a dilithium mine under siege by jets and helicopters of vintage 20th Century design. When a red, flat-nosed truck rolls in to save the day, the no-holds barred Saturday morning mash-up truly begins!
 
Co-writer Mike Johnson, whose vast Star Trek comic book credits include the acclaimed Countdown and Star Trek / Green Lantern storylines, says, “This is a crossover several decades in the making, and we could not be more thrilled to bring it to fans! John and I are having a blast writing the first meeting of Starfleet and Cybertronians, and Phil is the perfect artist to bring these two franchises together on the page.”

“The funny thing is, even though I'm the Transformers guy on this comic (I've written a lot of Transformers comics, after all), I've always been a huge Star Trek fan, ever since I was a kid,” says John Barber, co-writer and IDW’s newly-minted Editor-in-Chief. “When I was in fifth grade, I remember my teacher joking at the end of the year that maybe someday I'd wind up writing Star Trek… and it's a thrill to finally get to!”
 
Philip Murphy, whose IDW credits include The Powerpuff Girls and Star Wars Adventures, says, “This is definitely a dream-come-true project for me. It’s my first time getting to draw Transformers and Star Trek. Not only am I a huge Trek fan, but I was born in the '80s so I grew up in the golden era of Saturday morning cartoons – and The Transformers was definitely on the top of my list! This comic really means something special to me.”

Chase Marotz, associate editor, says, “Star Trek vs. Transformers is finally giving us the chance to combine two of our most prominent licenses in a style that will delight both fans of the original animated series and new readers. David Mariotte and I are having a great time editing it and we can’t wait until the fans get to see it for themselves.”
 
For information on how to secure copies of the monthly Star Trek vs. Transformers comic book series, please contact your local comic shop or visit www.comicshoplocator.com to find a store near you. Also, the collected Star Trek vs. Transformers trade paperback is now available for pre-order via online booksellers and comic book specialty retailers.



 

Larry Hama G.I. JOE mini-series spotlights Dawn Moreno

from the IDW Publishing press release . . . . . .

Legendary G.I. Joe Scribe Larry Hama Assigns the First (un)Official Mission for Breakout Character Dawn Moreno


SAN DIEGO, CA (June 22, 2018) – IDW Publishing is proud to launch G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero - Silent Option, a four-part miniseries that spotlights the breakout character of their “Dawn of the Arashikage” story arc: Dawn Moreno, the all-new Snake Eyes! The first monthly issue is slated for release this coming September.
 
Each oversized issue of Silent Option features a full story by the superstar creative team of longtime G.I. Joe scribe Larry Hama and artist Netho Diaz (Aquaman), plus a four-page backup story entitled “Codename: Helix” by Ryan Ferrier (G.I. Joe vs. Six Million Dollar Man) and Kenneth Loh (KISS).
 
In Silent Option, Dawn Moreno – the G.I. Joe team’s newest member, fulfilling the legacy of the legendary Snake Eyes – embarks on her first (un)official mission. But her debut mission may be her last, as she crosses paths with the deadly covert operations officer, Agent Helix!
 
While focusing on the recently-introduced Dawn Moreno serves as a great entry point for new readers, longtime fans will be rewarded with the introduction of Agent Helix to ARAH canon – a character whose previous appearances were in non-ARAH continuity.
 
Editor Tom Waltz says, “Following the huge success of the ‘Dawn of the Arashikage’ story arc, we wanted to keep the fantastic action and drama that Larry and Netho created together rolling forward. A standalone miniseries within canon gives us the chance to resume fan-favorite character Dawn Moreno’s adventures as a new team member, while at the same time introducing enigmatic character Agent Helix to the mix. So, working alongside the great folks at Hasbro, Silent Option was born!”
 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         For more information on purchasing

 copies of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero - Silent Option, contact your local comic shop or visit www.comicshoplocator.com to find a store near you.
 
 
 



Creator Bio:
 
Larry Hama is a writer/illustrator who has worked on Avengers, The NamConanBatmanWonder WomanX-MenSpider-ManDaredevilWolverine, and dozens more. He is best known as the writer of Marvel’s G.I. Joecomics in the 1980s. Recent script credits include Batman: Shadow of the BatWonder WomanG.I. Joe: Origins and G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero for IDW, and Call of Duty: Black Ops for Dark Horse. His illustrations have appeared in National LampoonEsquireNew York, and Rolling Stone.

Comics Review: BLACK ROAD VOLUME 2

BLACK ROAD VOLUME 2: A PAGAN DEATH  (Image Comics)  Written by Brian Wood & Steve Wands.  Illustrated by Gary Brown.  Colored by Dave McCaig.  

 

from the Goodreads website summary . . . . 

 

Having located Bishop Oakenfort on the extreme northern coast of Norssk, Magnus The Black moves in on this rogue Vatican outpost with the intent to shut it down. But as formidable a Viking warrior as Magnus is, he is still one man versus a fortress. The epic conclusion to the story started with volume 1's "The Holy North." Collects issues 6 through 10.

 

my review on the Goodreads website . . . . .

 

     A Magnus The Black mystery. Even better than Volume 1, this is the continuation and conclusion of the story that began with "The Holy North". 

 

     Volume 1 relates how Christianity found it's way to the land of the Vikings when a displaced Roman bishop leaves Rome to establish a Catholic fortress in the frozen north country. Ex-warrior Magnus, losing his home and family as the Christian conversion of pagan lands begins, becomes a bodyguard for hire for the Church and in doing so alienates himself from his own people. 

 

     On a journey north through the Black Road, to convey a Cardinal and his young female apprentice to the fortress of Bishop Oakenfort, the Cardinal is killed during an ambush. Magnus continues to escort the apprentice Julia, who's also a trained warrior, only to be betrayed and left for dead once they get close to the destination. 

 

     As Volume 2 begins, a healed Magnus keeps traveling north to seek revenge against Julia. He's accompanied by a female mercenary-turned-blacksmith on the Black Road.

 

      As they arrive within sight of the fortress they learn of a holy relic in transit to Oakenfort, an item that will aid him in uniting all of Christiandom under his demented leadership. They form a plan to thwart his efforts and embarrass the Church by stealing the relic and using it against Oakenfort. Also, Julia awaits within the walls. 

 

     Unfortunately for the soldiers serving the Bishop, they mistake the burly Magnus for someone as slow and stupid as he appears to them. Much to their regret.

 

     This is an epic story that allows the crafty scripting of Wood and the intriguing art of Brown to really explore the potential of this setting. Along with the suspense there is plenty of absorbing conversations regarding religion, holy relics, power and politics and more honest values in life. The numerous fight and action scenes really allow Brown to showcase what he's capable of. 

 

Recommended.


Tuesday, June 19, 2018

New Comics Wednesday Review: SON OF HITLER hardcover graphic novel

SON OF HITLER graphic novel  (Image Comics, June 2018) Hardcover, 192 pages.  ISBN #1534302247.  Story by Anthony Del Col and Geoff Moore.  Art by Jeff McComsey.

 

from the Goodreads website summary . . . . .

 

     A story so wild it could only be true... maybe... 

 

     The never-before-told tale of Adolf Hitler's secret child and how this son was the key to ending World War II is now revealed in this audacious graphic novel based upon one of history's most intriguing rumors. 

 

     In 1944 Occupied France a rogue British agent reveals to a young baker's assistant the true identity of his father, thus recruiting him for a dangerous mission that will end the greatest threat of World War II. Out of respect to the innocent and the dead all the names in this story have been changed... Except for one. 

 

      This action-packed ride in the vein of Inglourious Basterds and The Boys from Brazil is brought to life by acclaimed writer ANTHONY DEL COL (Assassin's Creed, Kill Shakespeare), New York Times bestselling cartoonist JEFF McCOMSEY (FUBAR, Flutter) and newcomer GEOFF MOORE. 

 

 

My review on the Goodreads website . . . . .

 

     Anthony Del Col takes the urban WWII myth of Hitler's son as his template and spins a well-researched yarn of historical fiction with plenty of suspense and emotion.

 

     The back history of the alleged son of Hitler is woven throughout the story so that the reader comes to understand how things came to this point, what influenced young Pierre during his formative years, and how he handles frustration, anger and mistreatment with brutal, violent snap decisions. 

     The reader comes to empathize with the young man, product of a one-night stand with the ruthless German fuhrer and a French prostitute. His childhood was difficult and his classmates' constant taunting usually led to bloody consequences (for the teasers). Pierre finds purpose and comfort in his work as apprentice to a baker, who is secretly passing messages inside madeleine pastries. 

 

     The real hero of the graphic novel as well as the most interesting character by far is special agent Cora Brown, who has dedicated her career to the assassination of Hitler. When she learns of the existence of Hitler's son through three defecting German officers, the hunt is on for the son in hopes of using him to gain access to the wicked leader. 

 

     Pierre is persuaded to assist, since getting in front of his father gives him the chance to kill him. Several methods are tried before the team finds success through one of Hitler's doctors, who has his own schemes in mind. 

 

     There's an unexpected twist in the story related to Pierre's discovery. The ending is not exactly what readers may be expecting, but it is still very satisfying. 

 

     Artist Jeff McComsey gained his reputation as editor/writer/artist on the historical zombie FUBAR graphic novels, but this may be his best work yet. He uses colors to indicate both setting and mood as well as flashback scenes. He's particularly good at facial expressions and conveying various moods including rage. 

 

     I was given a promotional uncorrected proof of the novel (with some sections of unfinished art) from my local comic shop, which enabled me to write an advance review.

Monday, June 18, 2018

Comics Review: BLACK ROAD VOLUME 1 TPB

BLACK ROAD VOLUME 1: THE HOLY NORTH  (Image Comics, 2016)  Written by Brian Wood.  Illustrated by Gary Brown.  Colored by Dave McCaig.  Trade paperback edition, 136 pages.  ISBN # 1632158728.

 

the Goodreads website summary . . . . 

 

1000 A.D. The Christian conversion of pagan lands is well underway, turning the Viking north into a bleak war zone of occupation and violence. Magnus The Black is an ex-warrior turned fixer for the Church, only looking to ease his people through this painful time. But when a Vatican official under his care is murdered on the infamous "Black Road," he uncovers a secret, something so big it threatens to change the balance of power in all of Europe.

From Northlanders creator Brian Wood, artist Garry Brown (Catwoman, The Massive) and Dave McCaig (Batman, Avengers) comes a historical thriller with a shocking twist.

 

 

my review on the Goodreads website . . . . 

 

Brian Wood has written about this particular period in history before, with NORTHLANDERS for DC/Vertigo Comics. Here, he revisits the northernmost Viking lands during a period when Christianity was on the rise, and pagans were being converted or decimated. 

 

     Cruelty abounds on both sides. A burly warrior is recruited to protect a Vatican cardinal during his trek to the northernmost reaches. While the priest doesn't survive the journey, Magnus The Black is determined to complete it and escort the priest's accomplice/servant - - a young women with fighting skills and other secrets. 

 

     The primary characters are fully realized, and Wood manages to convey their feelings and create reader empathy regardless of their principles and positions. 

     The art compliments the story. There is a lot of depth in the panels without excessive detail. The scenery, desolation, frigid conditions are expertly detailed, as well as some impressive fight scenes.

Review: Bourdain's last comic work - - HUNGRY GHOSTS

EDITOR’S NOTE:  The world of pop culture was recently saddened with the news of Anthony Bourdain’s suicide. He was a unique individual and will be missed.  Bourdain had a journalist’s observational eye for details and his writings on food and culture, and his television series that covered the world of food/travel/politics and social life across the globe was fascinating. As a comics writer, his body of work is tiny by comparison but definitely worth seeking out.  The GET JIRO graphic novel is a personal favorite among my family. Sorry to speculate that his recent mini-series for Dark Horse/Berger Books, HUNGRY GHOSTS, will get more attention and go up in value due to his death. So, is it something you should pay attention to?  My review is below . . . . .

 

HUNGRY GHOSTS #1 of 4 (Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books, January 2018)  Story by Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose. “Kaidan” art by Alberto Ponticelli.  “The Starving Skeleton” art by Alberto Ponticelli. “The Pirates” art by Vanesa Del Rey. Colors by Jose Villarrubia.  Letters by Sal Cipriano.  Cover Art by Paul Pope. 

 

     Anthony Bourdain, inspired by legendary Japanese ghost stories, reunites with Joel Rose (co-author of GET JIRO) to put their own spin on these classic tales by focusing on themes of love, erotica and gluttony. Of course, you knew there would be food involved. 

       

     The splash page got my attention right away, done in the style of TALES FROM THE CRYPT and so many others too numerous to mention. HUNGRY GHOSTS starts off by introducing a spooky host for the various tales of terror to follow. But this is a host of a different stripe. Instead of the usual ghastly get-up, this host (Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu) is adorned in Japanese kabuki make-up and gown, long black hair and long red fingernails. A mirror shows a reflection that reveals the demon inside the beguiling host. 

 

   The first story, “Kaidan”, works as a prologue for the tales to follow and serves as a template for the remainder of this and the issues to come.

 

     A wealthy Russian is the winning bidder at a charity auction for a dinner cooked and served by renowned chefs. Upon the conclusion of the meal, he introduces both guests and chefs to the ancient game of Kaidan involving the lighting of one hundred candles and a single mirror. Guests are required to tell an eerie story, then check their reflection in the mirror to see if they’ve been possessed. Candles are extinguished as each tale concludes, until there are none left and the room is plunged into darkness. 

 

    “The Starving Skeleton” is a cautionary tale regarding the ghosts of people who starved to death, the Gashadokuro or ‘hungry ghosts’. The single operator of a noodle shop is closing for the night when he receives a request from a homeless wanderer looking for scraps of food. Never underestimate the hunger of the needy. 

 

   As described by the next story-teller at the feast, “The Pirates” is a ‘lusty, brawling high seas adventure’.  Back in ancient times, women suspected of promiscuity were thrown into the sea. A shipload of pirates with dreams of debauchery rescue a waterlogged lass. The woman goes along with their desires and services them all, but not without gaining something in return.  The female dinner guest relating this story gazes at her reflection in the mirror before returning to the assemblage, where the Russian host remarks that these stories should involve food. I won’t spoil the final panel. A great start to this limited series. 

 

HUNGRY GHOSTS #2 of 4  (Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books, February 2018)  Story by Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose.  “Salty Dog” art by Leonardo Manco.  “The Heads” art by Mateus Santolouco.  Colors by Jose Villarrubia.  Letters by Sal Cipriano.  Cover art by Paul Pope.

 

Just as frightening as the story of “Salty Dog” is the realistic art of Leonardo Manco.  Without it, this tale would be a horse of a different stripe, indeed.  No dogs here, just horses.  And a rich man with an insatiable appetite for horsemeat who eventually suffers for the sin of gluttony. As they say, too much red meat is hazardous to your health.


     “The Heads” details the troubles of a young apprentice chef suddenly out of work who is hired to join a kitchen of goblins in disguise. They are less interested in tasting his dishes than they are in tasting him. 

 

HUNGRY GHOSTS #3 of 4 (Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books, March 2018)  Story by Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose.  “Deep” art by Sebastian Cabrol. “Boil In The Belly” art by Paul Pope.  Colors by Jose Villarrubia.  Letters by Sal Cipriano. Cover Art by Paul Pope. 

 

     The imagery in “Deep”, the first story, left a real impression that won’t leave for some time.  This story departs from the others so far in that it is a personal one, related by one of the guest chefs at the feast.  When he was a young apprentice in a French restaurant one chef in particular would harass him, always poking and prodding in ways that would send up a red flag to the human resources department in modern times.  An Asian chef takes pity on the new cook and consoles him by explaining that the persecuting chef has a malady that in other lands would be considered a delicacy. Not an easy thing to remove, and not fun to watch. 

 

   However, the uneasiness caused by “Deep” was just a warm-up to the main course in “Boil In The Belly”.  Unsettling is a modest description.  Another young chef gets a painful boil on his stomach that later develops a mouth that must be fed.  After many painful days a doctor is consulted.  The diagnosis: internal invasion by a hungry ghost.  The cure is worse than the curse. 

  

HUNGRY GHOSTS #4 of 4  (Dark Horse Comics/Berger Books, April 2018)  Story by Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose. “The Snow Woman” art by Irene Koh.  :The Cow Head” art by Francesco Francavilla.  Colors by Jose Villarrubia.  Letters by Sal Cipriano.  Cover Art by Paul Pope.

 

     “The Snow Woman” takes place in old Japan, as many but not all of the stories in this series do, and concerns the use of discretion in certain matters, especially when they involve spirits.  The young male protagonist of the story breaks a promise to a ghost, something one should never do. 

 

    “The Cow Head” relates another story of the hunger gods, the spirits of those who have starved to death. A poor Japanese village experiences drought and famine. It’s the wrong time to act like a glutton, as the village finds out to its regret. This story ties in nicely to the overall theme of the mini-series and wraps things up with a wicked twist.  Cue the re-appearance of the ghost host.

 

 RATING SYSTEM

 

 STORY: I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories in this mini-antholgy, something that rarely happens. My favorites for story are “The Heads”, “Deep” and “The Cow Head.” 3 POINTS


ART: A great assemblage of skilled artists, who show their suitability for tales of horror in appropriately horrific fashion. My favorites for art are “Salty Dog”, “Deep” and “Boil In The Belly”. 3 POINTS


COVERS: Paul Pope on all of them. Great images that draw attention to the title and create curiosity.  2 POINTS


READ AGAIN? Many times, having fun all over again. 1 POINT


RECOMMEND? For everyone who enjoys short horror stories a la Tales From The Crypt and others, absolutely! Others use discretion. 1/2 POINT.


TOTAL RATING: 9.5 POINTS. Close enough to perfection.

 

 


Sunday, June 17, 2018

Baltimore Comic Con adds Snyder/Capullo Fan Package

 

Metal by Snyder and Capullo

from the official BCC press release . . . . .


BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - June 13, 2018 - September 28th through the 30th marks the return of the Baltimore Comic-Con to the Baltimore Convention Center in 2018. Get your tickets now! Baltimore Comic-Con has added a special Fan Package for fan-favorites Greg Capullo and Scott Snyder, available at the BCC  tickets page:  http://baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets/

As a part of this Fan Package, each ticket holder will receive:
  • 5 signatures from Capullo
  • 5 signatures from from Snyder
  • A lithograph (unsigned)
  • A selfie with both guests
  • A special 45 minute panel available only to ticket holders
This event, and the associated exclusive panel, takes place on Saturday, September 29th and tickets are only being made available to 200 attendees. Please do not procrastinate on your Fan Package purchase to ensure your slot! 
Batman by Greg Capullo
Greg Capullo is a self taught Illustrator, working for the past five years as artist on the New York Times best-selling, highly-acclaimed Batman series for DC Comics. He is presently co-creating the Image Comics' book titled Reborn, along with writer Mark Millar. Prior to his Batman run, he was best known for his 80-issue run on Image Comics' Spawn. Other popular comics work includes Marvel Comics' X-Force and Quasar. He is also the creator of The Creech, a sci-fi/horror comic published by Image Comics. Greg has provided art for Blizzard Entertainment's World of Warcraft, contributed lead character designs for the the award-winning HBO animated Spawn series, and was the cover artist for many popular musical groups, including Five Finger Death Punch, Korn, and Disturbed.
Detective Comics by Scott Snyder
Scott Snyder made a huge impact on the comic industry with his ground-breaking work in DC's New 52, writing Batman (with artist Greg Capullo) and Swamp Thing. In 2011, he received Harvey and Eisner Awards for Best New Series for his work on American Vampire. In addition to these three titles, Snyder co-wrote Talon, which spun off directly from his critically-acclaimed "Court of Owls" storyline from Batman. He is currently taking the reins of DC Comics' Justice League, writes New Challengers, and has authored such titles as Detective ComicsThe WakeSuperman UnchainedAll-Star BatmanBatman EternalJustice League: No JusticeDC NationAction Comics #1000, and Dark Nights: Metal.

Preview: HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH

HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1 Begins to Rebuild the Valiant Universe with
Matt Kindt & Adam Pollina – In Stores September! 

The Valiant Universe will never be the same!

Valiant is proud to present a first look at the covers for HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1, a blistering standalone epilogue that hits stores on September 26th! As the seismic summer event of 2018 comes to a close, Eisner Award-nominated writer Matt Kindt (X-O MANOWAR, ETERNITY) and legendary artist Adam Pollina (X-Force, SECRET WEAPONS #0) sort through the rubble of the most brutal confrontation ever felt in the Valiant Universe – and discover what lies beyond the bloodshed!

The power’s back online and the fighting is over…but who are the real victors of HARBINGER WARS 2, and what was truly lost in the carnage? For those who survived the terrible onslaught – and who must now witness the devastating aftereffects of their actions – will there ever be peace again?

On September 26th, Matt Kindt and Adam Pollina pick up the pieces of the most consequential clash ever to the country in HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1 – featuring covers by Raúl Allén (SECRET WEAPONS), Lewis LaRosa (BLOODSHOT SALVATION), and Felipe Massafera (Planet of the Apes/Green Lantern)!

Then: On the heels of HARBINGER WARS 2, Valiant’s “BEYOND” initiative launches into 2019 with an all-new slate of groundbreaking series, starting in September with FAITH: DREAMSIDE #1! This fall, uncover the secrets of the Dreamside as Eisner Award-nominated writer extraordinaire Jody Houser (FAITH, Star Wars: Thrawn) and rising star MJ Kim (FAITH’S WINTER WONDERLAND SPECIAL #1) continue the adventures of the high-flying icon Nerdist called “a superhero done right!”

Even before Faith “Zephyr” Herbert gained the power of flight, joined the Harbinger Renegades, and soared through the skies of Los Angeles, deep down she was always a hero at heart. But what’s a hero to do in the face of a foe that exists only in nightmares? Face them head-on, of course! To protect the dreams of her teammate, Animalia, Faith must venture into a fantastical new realm the likes of which the Valiant Universe has never seen… and she’ll need some help from the world’s premiere parapsychologist, Dr. Mirage, to make it back with her subconscious mind still intact!

Once the dust of HARBINGER WARS 2 has settled, BEYOND will round out the end of Valiant’s 2018 publishing schedule and drive forward into the new year with FAITH: DREAMSIDE #1 in September; BLOODSHOT RISING SPIRIT #1 in November; LIVEWIRE #1 in December; and INCURSION #1 in February 2019!

HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1
Written by MATT KINDT
Art by ADAM POLLINA
Cover A by RAÚL ALLÉN
Cover B by LEWIS LAROSA
HW2 Icon Variant by FELIPE MASSAFERA
$3.99 | 32 pgs. | T+ | On Sale SEPTEMBER 26

FAITH: DREAMSIDE #1 (of 4)
Written by JODY HOUSER
Art by MJ KIM
Cover by MARGUERITE SAUVAGE
LIMITED SERIES | BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 2018
 


HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1 – Cover A by Raúl Allén


HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1 – Cover B by Lewis LaRosa



HARBINGER WARS 2: AFTERMATH #1 – HW2 Icon Variant by Felipe Massafera


VALIANT BEYOND – Art (L to R) by Marguerite Sauvage, Felipe Massafera,
Khary Randolph, and Jeffrey Veregge

 


 

 

DISNEY honors IDW with BEST NEW LICENSEE AWARD

 

EDITOR’S NOTE:  I can’t let this go without noting how altruistic the Disney organization is being about this . . . giving credit where credit is due, instead of handing it over to Marvel (which is now part of the Disney media conglomerate).  Bravo, Disney!  And suck it, Marvel.

Leading Comic Book Publisher Honored for Star Wars Adventures
Initiative Aimed at a New Generation of Readers


SAN DIEGO, CA (June 13, 2018) – IDW Publishing, a division of IDW Media Holdings, is proud to announce that Disney Publishing Worldwide honored them with their prestigious Best New Licensee Award at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2018.
 
The Best New Licensee Award is given to a new Disney Publishing Worldwide licensee signed in the past year, who created a new format and brought new distribution into the marketplace. In 2017, IDW began publishing an all-ages Star Wars comic, Star Wars Adventures, in addition to their Disney titles. Star Wars Adventureslaunched as a fan favorite in September 2017, and quickly gained notice by the industry; Diamond Comic Distributors acknowledged the title’s sales achievement with two GEM Award nominations in the categories of Best New Comic Book Series and Licensed Comic of the Year.
 
“IDW’s highly-successful Star Wars comics provided a new entry point for early readers into the Star Wars universe,” said Daniel Saeva, Vice President, Licensing, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “We are excited to see the stories that they will introduce to the new generation of Star Wars fans in the coming year.”
 
IDW’s line of Disney comic books and graphic novels launched in 2015 with the continuation of such long-standing series as Walt Disney’s Comics and StoriesMickey MouseDonald Duck, and Uncle Scrooge, and has since expanded to include DuckTalesTangled: The SeriesBig Hero 6: The SeriesStar Wars Adventures, and more. Additional Disney publishing programs from IDW include their line of Artist’s Editions – high-end reproductions of original art by Disney animation legend Don Rosa – as well as hardcover collections of the Donald Duck and Silly Symphonies newspaper comic strips.
 
Jeff Webber, Head of Rights Management at IDW Publishing, was on-hand at Bologna Children’s Book Fair to accept the award.

Sneak Peek: BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME coming July 25

First Look: BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Peter Milligan & Robert Gill Reveal New Horrors on July 25th!

 

 Valiant is proud to present a deeper first look at BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1, the incredible introduction to an ALL-NEW EPIC SERIES and BLOODSTAINED JUMPING-ON POINT! On July 25th, acclaimed writer Peter Milligan (Detective Comics) returns to the ancient world with fan-favorite artist Robert Gill (BOOK OF DEATH) for an an all-new, self-contained entry into Valiant’s supernatural sleuthing series!


The Roman standard – the eagle borne at the front of each Roman legion – was more than just a symbol of the soldiers that carried it… It was a symbol of Rome itself, the ultimate embodiment of the empire’s power…

But now, in the mist-shrouded Germanic forest of Tottenwald, the unthinkable has happened: A rampaging barbarian horde has crushed three of Rome’s most highly skilled detachments in battle…and captured their mighty Roman eagles.

His authority threatened by this all-too-public shame, the mad emperor Nero has dispatched Antonius Axia, the empire’s finest “detectioner” and hero of Britannia, and Achillia, the sword-wielding champion of the gladiatorial arena, to reclaim his stolen relics at any cost.

But what began as a simple mission will soon become a terrifying journey into the dark heart of belief itself as the isolated woodlands of Rome’s enemies reveal unseen dimensions…and the true power of the legion’s lost eagles threatens to consume any who would pursue them…

“As in all the BRITANNIA stories, though there are elements bordering on the supernatural, the biggest monsters are probably some of the men and women that Antonius Axia encounters on his adventures…” said writer Peter Milligan.

“The story is a nice continuation on the mythos of Antonius Axia that seamlessly builds on the first two series, while presenting a whole new mystery that takes him to a new, unexpected location,” artist Robert Gill said. “There’s an absolute plethora of my favorite things to draw in this series which I hope culminate into one hell of a visual experience for the reader.”

On July 25th, prepare yourselves for a perilous journey into an age of magic, mystery, and monsters, as storytellers Peter Milligan and Robert Gill dive deep into BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – featuring covers from Cary Nord (Conan the Barbarian), Brian Thies (Star Wars: Legacy), and David Mack (Kabuki)!
 

BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 (of 4)
Written by PETER MILLIGAN
Art by ROBERT GILL
Cover A by CARY NORD (MAY182072)
Cover B by BRIAN THIES (MAY182073)
Variant Cover by DAVID MACK (MAY182074)
B&W Sketch Variant by CARY NORD (MAY182075)
$3.99 | 32 pgs. | VALIANT PRESTIGE | T+ | On Sale JULY 25th (FOC – 7/2/18)


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Cover A by Cary Nord


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Cover B by Brian Thies


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Interior Art by Robert Gill with Diego Rodriguez


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Interior Art by Robert Gill with Diego Rodriguez


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Interior Art by Robert Gill with Diego Rodriguez


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Interior Art by Robert Gill with Diego Rodriguez

BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Interior Art by Robert Gill with Diego Rodriguez
 

 


BRITANNIA: LOST EAGLES OF ROME #1 – Variant Cover by David Mack


 

 

Dine with JOE JUSKO at SAN DIEGO COMIC CON in July

 
IDW Welcomes Fans to a Memorable Evening with a Comic Book Legend,
Featuring a Marvel Masterpieces Exclusive to Commemorate the Event  

from the official IDW Publishing press release . . . . .


EDITOR’S NOTE:  If I only had more time to attend these kind of events, plus more disposable income as well.  We present the following information to those of us (who we are jealous of) that may be attending the 2018 San Diego Comic Con who also are lucky enough to have deep pockets to afford this event.  Read on . . . . . .

 

SAN DIEGO, CA (June 14, 2018) – IDW Publishing is hosting a very special evening with artist Joe Jusko during this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. Strictly limited to just 25 attendees, the event will take place in a private room at an upscale restaurant in the San Diego Gaslamp district, a short walk from the convention center on Friday, July 20th, from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
 
Each guest will receive an extremely rare Captain America variant cover edition of Joe Jusko’s Marvel Masterpieces, the highly-anticipated complete collection of painted trading card art from the 2016 Upper Deck set. Featuring a unique embossed gold foil stamp created especially for the dinner event, the 336-page hardcover collectible will be autographed by Joe Jusko, and expressly limited to the number of attendees.
 
Additionally, each attendee will receive an original 11” x 14” piece of original artwork featuring the character of their choice, drawn by Jusko in advance of the dinner event. The character must be selected by each confirmed guest within 24 hours of purchase to ensure readiness. Representative examples of Jusko’s original illustrations can be found at the official Eventbrite site.
 
“I'm very much looking forward to schmoozing with friends and fans at this event, away from the distracting madness of the con,” says Joe Jusko. "A collectible and rare version of my new book will only be available there, as well as great food and drink — what could make this any more special? Well, tigers. Tigers would do it."
 
Featuring fine dining in an intimate atmosphere, this very special evening is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is extremely limited to 25 attendees. Tickets are $500 per person and can be purchased here:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dine-with-joe-jusko-at-san-diego-comic-con-tickets-46664583024?utm_source=Marketing+-+Media+Lists&utm_campaign=9a4297e132-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_05_31_06_14&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_b0dc13b2d9-9a4297e132-82868785&mc_cid=9a4297e132&mc_eid=b1822bf1af
 
Join one of the comic industry’s true luminaries for a memorable and insightful evening, and enjoy two keepsakes to commemorate the event. Don’t delay!


Creator Bio: Joe Jusko is one of the best-known fantasy, pin-up, and comic book artists in the world today. His career has spanned more than 40 years, starting with the sale of his very first cover to Heavy Metal Magazine in 1977 at the age of 17. Since graduating that year from New York City’s High School of Art & Design, Joe has worked for nearly every major comic book publisher, producing hundreds of covers and story pages. His work has appeared on paperback book covers, calendars, posters, T-shirts, toy packaging and innumerable trading cards, most memorably the multi-award-winning 1992 Marvel Masterpieces trading cards. His work has earned him myriad awards and honors, including two “Favorite Painter” Wizard Fan Awards, multiple trading card awards, a Golden Lion Award from the Burroughs Bibliophiles, and a Chesley Award nomination for best cover in 2001. He was awarded an Inkpot Award at the 2012 Comic-Con International for his contributions to the comic industry.




About IDW
IDW Media Holdings, Inc. (OCTQX: IDWM) is a fully integrated media company, which includes publishing, games, entertainment, and the San Diego Comic Art Gallery. 

IDW Publishing’s comic book and graphic novel catalog includes some of the world’s most popular entertainment brands, including TransformersMy Little PonyStar TrekTeenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesGhostbusters, and Disney’s classic characters. At IDW’s core is its commitment to creator-owned comics including 30 Days of NightLocke & KeyWormwoodRagnarökV-Wars, and Archangel by bestselling sci-fi author William Gibson.

IDW Publishing is also home to the acclaimed and award-winning imprints; Top Shelf, The Library of American Comics, Yoe! Books, and Artist Editions, showcasing the greatest original art ever published in American comic books.

IDW Games’ diverse line-up includes the international phenomenon Machi Koro, as well as hit licensed games such as X-FilesBack to the FutureThe Godfather, and TMNT.

IDW Entertainment serves as the worldwide distributor of Wynonna Earp airing on the Syfy Channel in the U.S. and is producing BBC America’s Dirk Gently, based on the bestseller by Douglas Adams starring Elijah Wood and Samuel Barnett.