The Amazing Spider-Man Trailer #3
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Peter Parker finds a clue that might help him understand why his parents disappeared when he was young. His path puts him on a collision course with Dr. Curt Connors, his father's former partner.
The Avengers Review
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It has been years in the making since the first "Iron Man" film. It has been hinted in other Marvel films such as "Thor", "The Incredible Hulk", and "Captain America: The First Avenger." At last "The Avengers" has arrived and the biggest question is, does it work? Does it live up to the hype? Check out the review.
Story - Nick Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D. brings together a team of super humans to form The Avengers to help save the Earth from Loki and his army. The Avengers story works for the most the part, it's your typical summer superhero plot line, that's not a bad thing at all. The real drive that makes The Avengers story move is the interaction of the characters. While the basic plot is simple, Loki trying to take over the Earth and control the unlimited energy source Earth has in their possession. It's the subplots of the characters that really bring you into the film. For example Captain America struggling to fit into a modern world was a big focus and one of the keys that drives the movie. Seeing the movie unfold mainly from Captain America's perspective was a smart move and it made sense. Captain America is the leader of The Avengers after all and seeing it unfold from his eyes works well. This doesn't mean the other heroes get the back burner. Director Joss Whedon did a wonderful job of balancing screen time of all the characters. Whedon manage to show struggles of Thor and Loki relationship, Bruce Banner struggle of still being The Hulk and Tony Stark's suspicion of S.H.I.E.L.D intentions. While the character interaction work really well, there is a few problems with The Avengers.
We still don't get a decent backstory on Nick Fury. With a couple of cameo's under his belt, I expected The Avengers to let us in on who is the leader of S.H.I.E.L.D. How did he get there? What is his struggles? A little story on Nick Fury would have been nice for those not familiar with the comics. Another character who wasn't explored too much was Hawkeye. Hawkeye is just guy with the arrows, you do see the relationship he has with Black Widow, but that's mainly it. Speaking of Black Widow she gets more backstory and more time in this film, we get a little glimpse of who she is, why she join S.H.I.E.L.D and her relationship with Hawkeye. Other than that and a few pacing problems in the first act, this is a great first movie and a wonderful way to kick off the summer. There is even little hints on what's to come in The Avengers 2, pay attention to what Thor says. Overall the story is a good with a couple of flaws, somethings are explored more than others, but it all comes together in the third act which will make any Avenger fan scream for joy.
Acting - The acting is superb! I would say these actors were born to play these roles. Chris Evans is at the top of his game as Cap and I really loved a certain emotional scene he has. Robert Downey Jr. always is a delight to watch as Tony Stark. Chris Hemsworth shines as Thor. Mark Ruffalo played a very good Bruce Banner, fans will miss Edward Norton, but Mark Ruffalo nailed Bruce just as good or even better, it does help that he looks like he can become The Hulk. Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, it's Samuel L. Jackson nothing more to say. To finish up Cobie Smulders was great as S.H.I.E.L.D agent Maria Hill. Scarlett and Jeremy play their roles of Black Widow and Hawkeye very well. The real show stealer is Tom Hiddleston as Loki. Loki was menacing, bone chilling at times and his interrogation scene with Black Widow will show you how amazing Tom really is as Loki. Everyone plays well off each other and there is great chemistry all around, especially with Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. The acting is solid and packs a punch.
Music & Filmmaking - The music works well. It was composed by Alan Sivestri, he did a great job with "Captain America: The First Avenger", the score shines during the action scenes and a couple of emotional scenes. It feels tense and does a great job of building you up for the final act. The action scenes are mind blowing, especially in the final act. Comic fans don't worry Cap leads, Hulk Smashes and Iron Man does his thing. The CGI on The Hulk is actually way better than "The Incredible Hulk" movie. Motion capture on Ruffalo's face makes his transformation of The Hulk more believable. Joss Whedon has done a wonderful job with his camera shots, the action is not too close for us not to understand what's going on. Everything was planned and executed very well, from the designs, the costumes to the settings. This is a beautiful movie to watch.
Final Grade B+/**** Out Of 5 Stars - The Avengers is a great start what looks to be a promising summer. This movie has it all for a superhero movie, a great villain, great cast and action pack sequences. Some key characters weren't explored as much as they should have been, the first two acts might drag a little, but the final act makes it all worth while. Geeks all over the world it's time to assemble!
Story - Nick Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D. brings together a team of super humans to form The Avengers to help save the Earth from Loki and his army. The Avengers story works for the most the part, it's your typical summer superhero plot line, that's not a bad thing at all. The real drive that makes The Avengers story move is the interaction of the characters. While the basic plot is simple, Loki trying to take over the Earth and control the unlimited energy source Earth has in their possession. It's the subplots of the characters that really bring you into the film. For example Captain America struggling to fit into a modern world was a big focus and one of the keys that drives the movie. Seeing the movie unfold mainly from Captain America's perspective was a smart move and it made sense. Captain America is the leader of The Avengers after all and seeing it unfold from his eyes works well. This doesn't mean the other heroes get the back burner. Director Joss Whedon did a wonderful job of balancing screen time of all the characters. Whedon manage to show struggles of Thor and Loki relationship, Bruce Banner struggle of still being The Hulk and Tony Stark's suspicion of S.H.I.E.L.D intentions. While the character interaction work really well, there is a few problems with The Avengers.
We still don't get a decent backstory on Nick Fury. With a couple of cameo's under his belt, I expected The Avengers to let us in on who is the leader of S.H.I.E.L.D. How did he get there? What is his struggles? A little story on Nick Fury would have been nice for those not familiar with the comics. Another character who wasn't explored too much was Hawkeye. Hawkeye is just guy with the arrows, you do see the relationship he has with Black Widow, but that's mainly it. Speaking of Black Widow she gets more backstory and more time in this film, we get a little glimpse of who she is, why she join S.H.I.E.L.D and her relationship with Hawkeye. Other than that and a few pacing problems in the first act, this is a great first movie and a wonderful way to kick off the summer. There is even little hints on what's to come in The Avengers 2, pay attention to what Thor says. Overall the story is a good with a couple of flaws, somethings are explored more than others, but it all comes together in the third act which will make any Avenger fan scream for joy.
Acting - The acting is superb! I would say these actors were born to play these roles. Chris Evans is at the top of his game as Cap and I really loved a certain emotional scene he has. Robert Downey Jr. always is a delight to watch as Tony Stark. Chris Hemsworth shines as Thor. Mark Ruffalo played a very good Bruce Banner, fans will miss Edward Norton, but Mark Ruffalo nailed Bruce just as good or even better, it does help that he looks like he can become The Hulk. Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, it's Samuel L. Jackson nothing more to say. To finish up Cobie Smulders was great as S.H.I.E.L.D agent Maria Hill. Scarlett and Jeremy play their roles of Black Widow and Hawkeye very well. The real show stealer is Tom Hiddleston as Loki. Loki was menacing, bone chilling at times and his interrogation scene with Black Widow will show you how amazing Tom really is as Loki. Everyone plays well off each other and there is great chemistry all around, especially with Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. The acting is solid and packs a punch.
Music & Filmmaking - The music works well. It was composed by Alan Sivestri, he did a great job with "Captain America: The First Avenger", the score shines during the action scenes and a couple of emotional scenes. It feels tense and does a great job of building you up for the final act. The action scenes are mind blowing, especially in the final act. Comic fans don't worry Cap leads, Hulk Smashes and Iron Man does his thing. The CGI on The Hulk is actually way better than "The Incredible Hulk" movie. Motion capture on Ruffalo's face makes his transformation of The Hulk more believable. Joss Whedon has done a wonderful job with his camera shots, the action is not too close for us not to understand what's going on. Everything was planned and executed very well, from the designs, the costumes to the settings. This is a beautiful movie to watch.
Final Grade B+/**** Out Of 5 Stars - The Avengers is a great start what looks to be a promising summer. This movie has it all for a superhero movie, a great villain, great cast and action pack sequences. Some key characters weren't explored as much as they should have been, the first two acts might drag a little, but the final act makes it all worth while. Geeks all over the world it's time to assemble!
IMAGE AND TOP COW CELEBRATE FREE COMIC BOOK DAY
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Something for every reader in IMAGE 20 and WITCHBLADE: UNBALANCED PIECESThis annual Free Comic Book Day, Image Comics will be celebrating 20 years of success in revolutionizing the comics industry with two new comics. Both provide great examples of what Image excels at providing: a diversity of genres and styles —something for everyone.
Both IMAGE 20 and WITCHBLADE: UNBALANCED PIECES will be available to the public at comic book stores on May 5, 2012, and they're absolutely free!
IMAGE 20 is jam-packed full of exciting stories from new, upcoming
comics and returning favorites. Titles include G-MAN from Chris
Giarrusso, Robert Kirkman's GUARDING THE GLOBE from Phil Hester and Todd
Nauck, Mike Allred's IT GIRL AND THE ATOMICS from Jamie S. Rich and
Mike Norton, CRIME AND TERROR by Steve Niles and Scott Morse, NEAR DEATH
by Jay Faerber and Simone Guglielmini, and REVIVAL from Tim Seeley and
Mike Norton.In "Witchblade: Unbalanced Pieces," new and lapsed WITCHBLADE fans will get the perfect chance to try out the brand new creative team, Tim Seeley and Diego Bernard, and a fresh new direction of Top Cow's flagship title. Since the events of ARTIFACTS, Sara Pezzini's entire life has been altered in immeasurable ways, not the least of which is she's living in a new city and has a new career. But one thing remains constant — the Witchblade. For fans who get hooked, "Unbalanced Pieces" continues in WITCHBLADE #155 — and they can pick up the WITCHBLADE: REBIRTH VOLUME ONE trade paperback for only $9.99.
Many Image Comics creators are making special appearances for FCBD signings and events across the country, including but not limited to:
ALABAMA
| Afua Richardson (GENIUS) | Sho'Nuff Comics - Tuscaloosa, AL |
CALIFORNIA
| Ed Brubaker (FATALE) | Collector’s Paradise - Pasadena, CA | |
| Gerry Duggan (THE INFINITE HORIZON) | The Comic Cellar - Alhambra, CA | 11 AM-1 PM |
| Joshua Hale Fialkov (ECHOES, THE DARKNESS, THE LAST OF THE GREATS) | Collector’s Paradise - Canoga Park, CA | |
| Shane & Chris Houghton (REED GUNTHER) | Pasadena Public Library, Central Branch, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91101 | 11AM-1 PM |
| Collector’s Paradise - Pasadena, CA | 2-4 PM | |
| Jim McCann, Rodin Esquejo & Sonia Oback (MIND THE GAP) | Collector’s Paradise - Pasadena, CA | |
| Derek McCulloch (PUG) | The Escapist Comic Bookstore - Berkeley, CA | 10:30 AM-1 PM |
| Comic Ink - Dublin, CA | 2-6 PM | |
| Ryan Ottley (INVINCIBLE) | Black Cat Comics - Milpitas, CA | |
| Jeff Roenning, Dana Shukartsi, Jean-Paul Bonjour & Robert Love (ALPHA GIRL) | Illusive Comics & Games, Santa Clara, CA | 10 AM-2 PM |
| Richard Starkings (ELEPHANTMEN) | The Comic Bug, - Manhattan Beach, CA | 10 AM-4 PM |
ILLINOIS
| Tim Seeley (HACK/SLASH, WITCHBLADE) | CHALLENGERS Comics + Conversation - Chicago, IL | |
| Mike Norton (IT-GIRL AND THE ATOMICS) | CHALLENGERS Comics + Conversation - Chicago, IL |
INDIANA
| John Tyler Christopher (WITCHBLADE, ARTIFACTS) | BlueMoon Comics - Lafayette, IN |
IOWA
| Phil Hester (THE DARKNESS) | Daydreams Comics - Iowa City, IA |
MARYLAND
| Filip Sablik (LAST MORTAL) | Cards, Comics & Collectibles - 100 Chartley Dr., Reisterstown, MD | 11 AM-2 PM |
MICHIGAN
| Michael Moreci & Steve Seeley (HOAX HUNTERS) | Comics & More - Madison Heights, MI | 12-5 PM |
MINNESOTA
| Mitch Gerads (THE ACTIVITY) | Comic Book College - Minneapolis, MN | 12-5 PM |
NEW ENGLAND (MA and NH)
| Justin Jordan & Tradd Moore (THE STRANGE TALENT OF LUTHER STRODE) | Larry's Comics - Lowell, MA | 9:30 AM-12:30 PM |
| Jetpack Comics - Rochester, NH | 2-7 PM |
NEW JERSEY
| Mark Poulton (AVENGELYNE) | Adventureland Store - Voorhees, NJ |
NEW YORK
| Ron Marz (WITCHBLADE) | Excellent Adventures - Ballston Spa, NY | 11 AM-1:30 PM |
| Comic Depot - Saratoga Springs, NY | 2:30-5 PM |
NORTH CAROLINA
| Chris Burnham (OFFICER DOWNE, ELEPHANTMEN) | Ultimate Comics - Durham, NC | |
| Chris Giarrusso (G-MAN) | Acme Comics - Greensboro, NC | |
| Kevin Mellon (HEART) | Heroes Aren't Hard to Find - Charlotte, NC |
OREGON
| Steve Lieber (UNDERGROUND) | Cosmic Monkey - Portland, OR | 2:30-3:30 PM |
| Things from Another World (Hollywood Branch) - Portland, OR | 12-2 PM | |
| Bridge City Comics - Portland, OR | 4:30-6 PM | |
| Brandon Seifert and Lukas Ketner (WITCH DOCTOR) | Things From Another World (Beaverton Branch) - Beaverton, OR | 2-4 PM |
TEXAS
| Joe Eisma (MORNING GLORIES) | Zeus Comics - Dallas, TX | 10 AM-5 PM |
| David Marquez (MAGDALENA) | Austin Books & Comics - Austin, TX |
CANADA
| Tyler Jenkins (PETER PANZERFAUST) | Alpha Comics - Calgary, Alberta | 12-4 PM |
UNITED KINGDOM
| Christian Ward (INFINITE VACATION) | Gosh Comics - London, UK | 12-4 PM |
HEROES GO INDEPENDENT
/
CREATOR OWNED HEROES anthology debuts in June"American Muscle": a race against nothing across a post-apocalyptic America. "Triggergirl 6": the perfect assassin — except for her conscience. These are the first two titles showcased in the new Image Comics anthology, CREATOR OWNED HEROES, edited by Jimmy Palmiotti.
"Creator-owned" isn't just a business model — it's also a publishing philosophy that focuses on creators of comics, who retain the ownership and all the rights to their creations, rather than on "properties" that are corporate property. CREATOR OWNED HEROES was created not only as a vehicle for creators' creativity but emphasize the importance of this model to the reading public.
"With Creator Owned Heroes we wanted to not only have a place to introduce new ideas and concepts, but to give the reader a place to come each and every month to interact and explore the world around us," said Palmiotti. "This is a personal project that will continue to grow with the support of our readers and I for one am looking forward to its evolution. "
In
"American Muscle," written by Steve Niles (30 Days of Night) with Kevin
Mellon (HEART) on art duties, a group of rebels break off from the last
stronghold of human civilization in search of a fabled paradise on what
used to be the West coast of the United States. What they find,
however, is something much different..."Triggergirl 6," by Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex, QUEEN CRAB), Justin Gray (Power Girl, Jonah Hex) on the writing side and art by Phil Noto (Avengers: The Origin, THE INFINITE HORIZON) offers a very different kind of future, one where a woman designed to be a perfect killer can be created in a tank and then let loose on the world.
The first issue of the monthly anthology also includes interviews with comics and literature superstar Neil Gaiman and with cosplaying twins Juli and Alex Abene, who created a Triggergirl costume based on an incentive cover of the first issue.
CREATOR OWNED HEROES #1 is a 40-page, full-color comic book for $3.99. It is available now for pre-order from the April issue of Previews (cover A: APR120420, cover B: APR120421, cover C: APR120422) and will be in stores on June 6.
VIZ Media Launches WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Trivia Sweepstakes
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Everyone Is Invited To Enter Contest For A Chance To Win A Pair Of 4-Day Passes To 2012 San Diego Comic-Con
VIZ Media invites manga fans to test their knowledge of the nation’s leading digital manga magazine with a just-announced new online SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Trivia Sweepstakes Contest, running exclusively at http://www.sjalpha.com/sja-
Contestants simply have to correctly answer 3 trivia questions on WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA to be entered into the sweepstakes drawing. The Grand Prize winner will receive two (2) 4-day show passes to the 2012 Comic-Con International, the nation’s largest comic book, science fiction and pop culture event. Comic-Con takes place July 12th-15th at the San Diego Convention Center, CA. (**Note: Prize package includes show passes only; winner is responsible for hotel, transportation, and other ancillary costs). The Second Place winner will receive an annual Membership to WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA, North America’s premier digital manga magazine.
Winners will be selected by random from all valid entries on May 24th and notified by email following the drawing.
Each new digital edition of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA treats manga fans across North America to the latest chapters of some of the world’s most popular manga series only two weeks after they debut in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP magazine. Don’t miss the latest installments of hot series such as BAKUMAN｡, BLEACH, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, NARUTO, ONE PIECE and TORIKO as well as access to special editorial features and an extensive online fan-supported community.
WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA is available through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of digital access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99. Single issues of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA can be read for four weeks for only $0.99. Each issue may be read on VIZManga.com/sj-weekly, and also on the VIZ Manga App for iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod® touch. WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA members also receive an annual collector’s yearbook and access to exclusive content, including creator interviews and exclusive videos.
For more information on WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJAlpha.com.
Matt Kindt's MIND MGMT: SECRET FILES Unlocked! Free Digital Prequel
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MATT KINDT RELEASES EXCLUSIVE FREE DIGITAL PREQUEL!
May 2, MILWAUKIE, OR—Can’t wait for the new
series from visionary Super Spy and 3 Story creator
Matt Kindt? Well, lock up your dolphins, shield your brain, and don’t believe
anything you see, because MIND MGMT is here!
Leading up to the debut of MIND
MGMT #1 in print and
digital May 23, Dark Horse Originals presents three weeks of original—and
free—stories available only on Dark Horse Digital. MIND MGMT:
Secret Files introduces the Mind Management program of psychic spies, its
most infamous defector, and Meru, the journalist who stumbles upon their
incredible secrets!
In the first installment, available right now,
Meru’s investigation begins with the story of “the Bear,” a Soviet mind
operative on a mission to eliminate MIND MGMT’s top agent. Don’t miss this
electrifying intro to Matt Kindt’s bold new espionage series! This is Akira meets Heart
of Darkness by way of 100
Bullets!
Check back for two more exclusive, free
chapters on May 9 and 16!
Praise
for Matt Kindt:
“I’ll read anything Kindt does.”
—Douglas Wolk, author of Reading Comics
—Douglas Wolk, author of Reading Comics
“Matt Kindt’s work blows my mind. The elegance
of his art, juxtaposed with his rich character work and complex narrative—is
nothing short of genius.”
—Jesse Alexander, producer and writer of Heroes, Lost, and Alias
—Jesse Alexander, producer and writer of Heroes, Lost, and Alias
About Dark
Horse Digital
Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse
Comics has grown to become the third-largest comics publisher in the United
States and is acclaimed internationally for the quality and diversity of its
line. In 2011, the company that revolutionized the comic industry proudly
presented its groundbreaking digital-publishing program, Dark Horse Digital.
Dark Horse Digital offers its most popular
titles at an unprecedented value, while providing the highest-quality reading
experience possible. Single-issue comics are priced as low as just $0.99, and
there is also an extensive list of free introductory #1 issues. Additionally,
DH Digital’s “bundles” group together story arcs spanning multiple issues into
affordable packages, allowing readers to get all the issues that comprise a
complete narrative, starting at just $3.99 and up. And through cloud-based
technology, Digital Store purchases can be read and enjoyed on your laptop,
desktop, mobile browser, and Dark Horse Bookshelf app, available now on iTunes.
To get started, simply log on to Digital.DarkHorse.com
or download the app to create an account, and begin building your collection
today.
WITCHBLADE’S REBIRTH COLLECTED
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First Five Issues Offered in Introductory-Priced Trade PaperbackImage Comics and Top Cow Productions are offering fans an opportunity to catch up on the first five WITCHBLADE issues, hot off the Top Cow Universe-altering events of ARTIFACTS #13 and WITCHBLADE #150, with WITCHBLADE: REBIRTH VOLUME ONE trade paperback!
With an introductory price of $9.99, readers can easily discover the series that has everyone buzzing. The collection, by the passionate new creative team of Tim Seeley (HACK/SLASH, BLOODSTRIKE) and Diego Bernard (The Man With No Name), along with Top Cow’s new REBIRTH continuity, provide an ideal jumping-on point for new readers.
Additionally, Top Cow’s Free Comic Book Day features WITCHBLADE: UNBALANCED PIECES, a prologue to the story in REBIRTH VOLUME ONE — and readers will want to know how it unfolds!
In the wake of Top Cow's REBIRTH, Sara Pezzini has relocated from New York to Chicago and struggles to adapt to her new job as a private detective. Pezzini quickly discovers that a change of scenery and occupation hasn't changed one thing... the Witchblade is still a magnet for the supernatural. Quickly drawn into a conflict between two mystical gangs, she must once again balance her responsibility as bearer of the Witchblade with her personal life.
Seeley and Bernard’s bold new direction for Top Cow's flagship character coupled with a stunning painted cover by John Tyler Christopher (ARTIFACTS), a complete cover gallery alongside a host of bonus content and extras make this entry-level priced collection a must for anyone curious about Top Cow's REBIRTH.
"Witchblade 151 is exactly the kind of book you need to create if you are looking to hook new readers." - Panel Patter
"Diego Bernard, much like Tim Seeley, is a fantastic fit for the series." - Horror Haven
"...great story and gorgeous art..." Geeks of Doom
"Consider me hooked." - Geekadelphia
WITCHBLADE REBIRTH VOLUME ONE is a full-color, 144-page trade paperback that collects issues #151-#155 retailing for $9.99 and will be in stores May 16th, 2012.
Call of Duty Black Ops 2 Trailer Arrives
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Call Of Duty Black Ops 2 First Trailer
Activision release their first trailer for the
upcoming, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2. The future is looking pretty black.
Carla Speed McNeil Wins LA Book Prize
/
CARLA SPEED MCNEIL WINS LA BOOK PRIZE!
MAY
1, MILWAUKIE, OR—Finder: Voice continues to be one of the
most talked about books of 2011, and word of its story and artwork has
spread far and wide. So far, in fact, that Carla
Speed McNeil has been awarded the prestigious Los Angeles Times Book Prize in the Graphic Novel
category for Finder: Voice!
Praise for Carla Speed McNeil’s Finder:
“I
love Carla Speed McNeil’s Finder, and I imagine the reason I love it is the same
reason it doesn’t get more attention in the comics press: it’s
simultaneously straightforward and labyrinthine, genre-based and
uncategorizable . . . For me, and for other readers who have
gotten pulled into McNeil’s weird and woolly far-future world, Finder is one of those comics.”—The Comics Journal
“It’s
been entirely too long since we were able to experience Carla Speed McNeil’s
unique brand of sociological science fiction with its emphasis on character,
class and culture. Once again McNeil immerses you in her meticulously
detailed world and you’re immediately caught up in a beautifully drawn and
deftly written story.”—ICv2
“You’ll
keep turning the pages in Voice to
put the pieces of the puzzle together and to see what Grosvenor does next. It
is an intricate tale, and Carla Speed McNeil is a master storyteller—with her
words and art.”—ScienceFiction.com
“McNeil
conveys more emotion and depth through the slick line of a raised eyebrow than
most can with an entire book, played out in a world that is unquestionably
familiar and unshakably alien.”—Bleeding Cool
“McNeil
excels at tying her many character and story elements together and anchoring
them in the same increasingly familiar universe, making her fictional
world, its inhabitants and their issues and experiences all the more real
to the invested, gratified reader.”—No Flying No Tights
Awards and nominations:
Unshelved
Book Club’s Book of the Month, February 2012—Unshelved
#1
on Comics Worth Reading’s Best Graphic Novels of 2011—Comics Worth Reading
#2
on Comics Bulletin’s Top 10 Best Graphic Novels of 2011—Comics Bulletin
#4
on Publishers Weekly’s Best Books of 2011, Comics—Publishers Weekly
#4
on ComicsAlliance’s 11 Best Comics of 2011—ComicsAlliance
#29
on Comic Book Resources’ Top 100 Comics of 2011—Comic Book Resources
About Dark Horse
Founded in 1986 by Mike
Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity
and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a
small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the
progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and
artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent such as Frank Miller,
Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Felicia Day, Guillermo del
Toro, and comics legends such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko,
Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties such as The Mask,
Ghost, Timecop,
and SpyBoy. Its successful line of comics and products based on popular
properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily
the Strange, Tim Burton’s Tragic
Toys for Girls and Boys, Serenity, and Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic
book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading
publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.
BioWare and Dark Horse Unveil New DRAGON AGE Comic Miniseries
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BIOWARE AND DARK HORSE COMICS EXPAND AND UNVEIL NEW DRAGON AGE™ COMIC MINISERIES
MAY 1, MILWAUKIE, OR—BioWare, a label of
Electronic Arts Inc., and Dark Horse Comics today announced Dragon Age™: Those Who Speak, a three-issue comic miniseries based on
the award-winning Dragon Age™
fiction.
Written by David Gaider, lead writer of the Dragon Age series, and Alexander Freed, senior
writer for Star Wars™: The Old Republic™,
Those Who Speak expands on the story
of King Alistair, as he travels
to an empire of evil mages to uncover the fate of his lost father. Accompanied
by the pirate captain Isabela and the underworld merchant Varric, King Alistair
will stop at nothing to learn the truth, even if it means battling an army of
cultists single-handedly. The first issue of Dragon Age: Those Who Speak will be available on comic book stands
on August 22.
Additionally, Dragon
Age™:
The Silent Grove will be available in a hardcover edition on July 25. Previously
available only in the Dark Horse Digital store, Dragon Age: The Silent Grove
is the perfect companion to the Dragon
Age universe.
To learn more about Dragon Age: Those Who Speak and Dragon Age:
The Silent Grove, visit DarkHorse.com. To learn more about Dragon Age, visit DragonAge.com.
True Batman Fan
/
I had a dream...It is now reality: The Bat-Stache!
Hey
Otakus and Geeks Fans, I found something that I think is cool and you
guys would enjoy This is a true fan getting ready for the Dark Knight
Rises!!
The Dark Knight Rises Trailer # 3
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Warner Bros just released the new "The Dark Knight Rises Trailer" and I have to say one thing "Oh My God!" Just watch the trailer and see how amazing this film is going to be. Bane is SCARY!
New Final Fantasy Theatrhythm Screenshots
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This is one the of the 3DS games I really can't wait to play. As a fan of Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy Music, a music game catering to those compositions is sure to be a hit. Here is some details on character progression and the new screenshots.
Players can level up characters and improve skills by fighting monsters, exploring the world and completing events. Characters with high Strength or Magic skills can more easily defeat monsters in battle; Characters with high Agility can travel greater distances in the field with an increased chance of finding treasures. Characters with high Luck have greater odds of finding rare items and can avoid taking damage more easily. Each character has a unique set of Abilities that aid in completing stages.
Players can level up characters and improve skills by fighting monsters, exploring the world and completing events. Characters with high Strength or Magic skills can more easily defeat monsters in battle; Characters with high Agility can travel greater distances in the field with an increased chance of finding treasures. Characters with high Luck have greater odds of finding rare items and can avoid taking damage more easily. Each character has a unique set of Abilities that aid in completing stages.
Book Review - “The Navidad Incident: The Downfall of Matías Guili”
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Image source: Amazon.com
“The Navidad Incident” is less about the vanishing bus than the fall of the president of the island nation, Matias Guili. Guili is in negotiations with Japan to store a cache of oil on Navidad’s shores. At the same time, the veterans come to visit, board a bus for a tour and are never seen again.
As you read, you learn of the complicated history of Guili and the relations between Navidad and Japan. Guili was an orphan who never knew is father; possibly a Japanese soldier who was one of many to occupy Navidad. Guili crawled his way up into power and hopes to keep his nation from falling under the influence of Japan again. He sees his goal as trying to do his best for his country, not seem weak to Japan, and locate this bus of missing people before it turns into an international incident.
“Navidad” is a slow book but that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable. For me, it was like a 10,000 piece puzzle; riveting while in it but once you stop, it’s a job to pick it up again. The imagery is lush and the translation is smooth so you won’t get tripped up by poorly translated colloquial phrases.
If you’re looking for an interesting, intellectually challenging treatise on colonialism mixed with modern myth, I recommend this book.
100 Years of Kimono Exhibit
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Great Sunday kits, kittens, and otakus & geeks! This share was A LOT for my life. A good friend of mine and I got a chance to partake in seeing the exhibit "100 Years of Kimono" for the centennial celebration of the gift of Cherry Blossoms in the US. Sounds like it should be fancy, right?!
Unfortunately, this exhibit did nothing for me! The kimono, don't get me wrong, were GORGEOUS. But being crammed into some "conference room" labeled 'gallery' that was set up for a lunch conference buffet thingy was not the move.
While I was totally interested in gib=ving you all play by play and setting the mood of how the kimono were displayed so rich, with soft lights, and some in cases ... blah blah blah ...
NOT!!
So! Let's forget about all that jazz and see kimono, shall we?!
These were some of my favorite kimono and next to them are some detail snippets of the kinomo.
Obi: Sorry, they were extremely hard to photograph, but I think you'll get it.
More kimono. The fabric and color in these were extremely rich, though not among the favorites, for my style/ taste. Maybe they'd suit you or another reader better. But they were definitely worth the share!
More Kimono detail :
I took pictures of these for tattoo reference but I couldn't be selfish! ;-D
Until next time kiddies!
~je t'adore
<3 IKB
Avengers vs X-Men Vol 0 & 1 Review
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Hey Otakus and Geeks Fans, Sean ( The Comic Guy ) and here is a video Review of Avengers vs X-Men. I wanna give you quick back story of the Phoenix saga and what has led up to Avengers vs X-men.
Avengers vs. X-Men, abbreviated as AvX, is a limited series comic book crossover to be published by Marvel Comics, beginning in April 2012, that involves the return of the Phoenix Force, and the subsequent war between the Avengers (consisting of the main team, the New Avengers, and the Secret Avengers) and the X-Men, and the emergence of a future Age of Ultron, as foreshadowed in Marvel Point One. It will be a 12-issue limited series, released bi-weekly, following the Avengers: X-Sanction and X-Men: Regenesis line.
The event is preceded by Avengers vs. X-Men #0, which was published in March 2012. According to Marvel, Avengers vs. X-Men is the result of all the threads from the Fear Itself, X-Men: Schism, and Avengers: The Children's Crusade stories coming together.
"The Dark Phoenix Saga" is an extended X-Men storyline in the fictional Marvel Comics Universe, focusing on Jean Grey and thePhoenix Force, and ending in Grey's apparent death. It was written by Chris Claremont with art by Dave Cockrum and John Byrne.
It is sometimes divided into two parts, with the "Phoenix Saga" (The X-Men #101-108, 1976–1977) referring to Grey's seeming assumption of the Phoenix power and the repair of the M'Kraan Crystal, and the "Dark Phoenix Saga" (The X-Men #129-138, 1980) referring to her corruption and fall. It is one of the most well-known and heavily referenced stories in mainstream American superhero comics, and widely considered a classic.
It was adapted for the X-Men animated series, and alluded to in the movie X2: X-Men United. A third movie, X-Men: The Last Stand, released in 2006, contains some elements from the saga. Wolverine and the X-Men adapted the Dark Phoenix Saga at the end of its first season, changing many things to make it a fresh and new version.
In comic books, readers know the Phoenix as a psionic cosmic entity linked to Jean Grey. This was not how the character was written in the original story — there, the Phoenix actually was Jean, at the very peak of her power. Returning from a mission in space, the story told of Jean being exposed to the deadly radiation of a solar flare, and briefly attaining her ultimate potential as a telepath and telekinetic. In this moment, Jean became a being of pure thought, and then reformed herself upon return to Earth with the new costume, identity and power of "Phoenix". It was with this incredible power that Jean repaired the fractured M'Kraan Crystal, but voluntarily restrained her powers afterward in order to keep them under control.
Her vast potential made her a target for the illusionist Mastermind, who was attempting to prove himself in order to join the prestigious Inner Circle of the Hellfire Club. With the help of a mind-tap device created by the White Queen, Emma Frost, Mastermind (using the alias Jason Wyngarde) was able to project his illusions directly into Phoenix's mind. These illusions caused her to believe that she was reliving the memories of her ancestor, Lady Grey, who in Mastermind's illusions, was Wyngarde's lover. Phoenix was subverted into joining the Hellfire Club as their Black Queen, a decadent role that would allow her to relish the extremes of human emotion and began to break down the barriers that she had erected.
When the X-Men came to her rescue, they were captured by the Inner Circle, and Jean's true love Cyclops faced Mastermind in a psychic duel. When Mastermind killed Cyclops' psychic image, it served to break his hold over Jean's psyche and shattered the final barriers on her power. Experiencing this power in its totality, along with the decadent role she had just played, overwhelmed Jean entirely, and she renamed herself the "Dark Phoenix". The X-Men battled her, but were easily defeated by her power before she departed for the heavens. Intent on satiating her hunger, Dark Phoenix created a wormhole and transported herself to a distant galaxy. Without a thought of the consequences, she dove into the heart of the D'Bari star and devoured its energy, causing the star to go nova — killing billions of innocent aliens in the process. Dark Phoenix was then attacked by a Shi'ar vessel to prevent her from destroying other stars. Dark Phoenix easily defeated her foes, but not before they were able to alert the Shi'ar Empress Lilandra. Gathering a host of intergalactic associates, including the Kree and Skrull empires, the council concluded that Dark Phoenix was an even more serious threat than the planet-consumingGalactus and must be destroyed because she had the power to destroy the entire Universe.
On Earth, the X-Men were greeted by Avengers member (and former X-Man) Beast. He had designed a device which would neutralize Phoenix's powers long enough for them to defeat her. Dark Phoenix returned to Earth, to her family's home, and was subsequently attacked by the X-Men. During a vicious psionic battle with her mentor, Charles Xavier, he was able to rebuild the psychic "circuit-breakers" in her mind which reduced Dark Phoenix's powers to more reasonable levels and allowed Jean's personality to reassert control, curtailing the destructive impulses of Dark Phoenix.
The Shi'ar then abducted the X-Men, told them of Dark Phoenix's casual genocide, and indicated that she must be put to death because of it. Xavier, who was romantically involved with the Shi'ar Empress, challenged Lilandra to Arin'n Haelar, a Shi'ar duel of honor that cannot be refused. After conferring with her allies, who insisted the contest be staged to ensure a guaranteed victory on their part, Lilandra ceded to Xavier's demand.
The next day, the X-Men and the Shi'ar Imperial Guard were teleported to the Blue Area of the Moon where they would do battle, with the victors deciding the fate of Phoenix. The Imperial Guard, led by Gladiator, was able to defeat all of the X-Men, leaving Cyclops and Phoenix alone to make a final stand against them. When a stray bolt of energy hit Cyclops, Jean Grey's panic overrode the psychic circuit-breakers Xavier had placed within her mind and the full might of Phoenix's powers was once more unleashed. At this point, Lilandra abandoned the delicate approach and ordered Plan Omega, which would consist of destroying the whole solar system in hopes of eliminating Dark Phoenix in the process.
With events spiraling out of control, Xavier ordered the X-Men to subdue Jean to preempt Lilandra's emergency measure. The team battled her until she regained her senses. Running to a back alley on the moon, Jean, struggling to keep control, activated a Kree weapon and disintegrated herself after an emotional good-bye to Cyclops. He later deduced that Jean had planned her sacrifice from the moment they had landed on the moon.
This pivotal story ends with Uatu the Watcher commenting that "Jean Grey could have lived to become a god. But it was more important to her that she die...a human."
Back Story provided by Wikipedia
SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST IN PLANETOID
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New Image Comics series pits man against machine in JuneSilas is a hardened space smuggler, calloused by tragedy and grueling labor — but when, in the new Image Comics series PLANETOID by Ken Garing, his ship crashes on a living, metal planet, it will take all of his experience and resources to survive.
Garing's five-issue series is a grim vision of a desolate industrial landscape. The titular planetoid, a sphere of discarded wreckage and machinery, has its own intelligence — and its own mandate to survive, at the cost of the few humans who have also found themselves stranded on its surface. These people form the core of PLANETOID's story.
"The world of Planetoid is that of a vast, abandoned industrial landscape," said Garing. "The story, however, will revolve around the efforts of the planetoid's inhabitants as they struggle together against extraordinary odds in the hope of building something new out of the devastation."
Garing pits man against machine in a primal struggle, using the color palette of his painted interiors to contrast the combatants — the occasional splash of human blood amidst the monochromatic grays and rusts of the planetoid.
The first issue of PLANETOID was an exclusive digital comic on Graphicly, but now will appear in print under the Image Comics banner on June 13. PLANETOID #1 (APR120419) is available for pre-order in the April issue of Previews. Each full-color issue will be 32 pages long, with no ads, for $2.99.
"Ken Garing is off to a spectacular start with this bit of survivalist SF. This is just an introduction to the ruinous, dystopian world of Planetoid, and I’m eager to see what horrors yet remain in its crevices. Highly recommended." — iFanboy
SISTERS BOUND BY BLOOD IN CARBON GREY VOLUME TWO
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"Daughters of Stone" hits stores in JuneThe dieselpunk world of Hoang Nguyen's CARBON GREY first dazzled comic book readers with its beautiful painted art, intrigue-fueled action, and compelling heroines in August 2011 with the "Sisters at War" story arc. Now, Nguyen has assembled his creative team once more to continue the story of the Sisters Grey with the publication of CARBON GREY VOLUME TWO: DAUGHTERS OF STONE #1 in June.
At the close of volume one, the sisters' relationship was torn apart by the murder of the Kaiser of Mitteleuropa, the man whom they were sworn to protect. Now, with Eva and Giselle in exile and the vicious Anna on the hunt for conspirators, the fourth Grey, Mathilde, is on a quest to discover the truth about the source of her family's power.
A Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of the new volume of CARBON GREY reached its funding goal on April 14. Nguyen explained that both the intensity of the artistic process, with each page meticulously hand-painted, and the depth of research behind the creation of CARBON GREY necessitated the campaign.
"A
lot of research goes into every page, whether it's a costume designs or
different settings," said Nguyen. "I want to make sure that it's
believable. My inspirations comes from looking at fashion, photography,
architecture, industrial and set design. I like to go beyond the norm
and bring something new and different to my drawings."CARBON GREY VOLUME TWO: DAUGHTERS OF STONE is a three-issue monthly mini series, co-written by Nguyen, Paul Gardner, and Khari Evans, with art by Nguyen, Evans, and Kinsun Loh. The first issue (APR120424) is available for pre-order in the April issue of Previews and will be in stores on June 6.
The three issues of CARBON GREY VOLUME ONE have sold out, but a trade paperback (ISBN 978-1-60706-448-0) is available. A two-issue mini-series CARBON GREY: ORIGINS, about the childhoods of the Sisters Grey and their family history, wrapped up in March 2012. THE ART OF CARBON GREY (ISBN 978-1-60706-474-9), an oversized hardcover book featuring an array of artwork from the series and a look at the artists' process, was released in February 2012.
Stumptown Comics Fest 2012 - Portland Parties, Panels & Signings
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DARK HORSE: STUMPTOWN COMICS FEST 2012 SCHEDULE
APRIL
27, MILWAUKIE, OR— This weekend, Portland's own Stumptown Comics Fest
takes over the Oregon Convention Center for its largest show ever! Dark
Horse is giving you a look at all the awesome happening through Sunday!
FRIDAY, APRIL 27
Drink and Draw with Peter Bagge at Bridge City Comics
Bridge City Comics, 3725 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
In celebration of the release of Peter Bagge's newest comics series, Reset,
Dark Horse Comics and Bridge City Comics present the official 2012
Stumptown Comics Festival kickoff event -- a Friday night Drink and Draw
for visiting and local artists, publishers, and all festival-goers!
Bagge will be in attendance as the guest of honor with copies of Reset #1
to sign, and party guests will be provided with complementary art
supplies to draw to their hearts' content. Snacks and drinks (21+ with
valid I.D.) will be served, complements of Bridge City, Dark Horse, and
Ninkasi Brewing.
Admission to this event is free, and the drawing starts at 7:00 p.m.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28
Signings at the Dark Horse Booth
11:00 – 11:30 p.m. Tyler Crook (B.P.R.D.)—FREE B.P.R.D.comic
1:00 – 1:30 p.m. Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo)—FREE Usagi Yojimbocomic and print
2:00 – 2:30 p.m. Erika Moen and Jeff Parker (Bucko)—FREEBucko print
2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Peter Bagge (Reset)—FREE Reset print and exclusive
Stumptown Comics Fest Reset Passport
4:00 – 4:30 p.m. Michael Avon Oeming (Rapture, Victories, Valve Presents)—FREE Victories print and head sketches for Victories and Rapture
Panels
1:00 – 1:45 p.m. Spotlight on Peter Bagge, Room B-114
Best known for his comic-book series Hate, which helped to define the grunge generation, and his recent contributions to Reason magazine,
Peter Bagge is always willing to confront hard-hitting societal issues
with intelligence, wit, and funny bone intact. Join us for a
conversation with the multiple Harvey and Eagle Award-winning
cartoonist, whose newest series, Reset, has just been launched in the Dark Horse Originals line. Moderated by Ryan Alexander-Tanner.
2:00 – 2:45 p.m. Of Rabbits and Ronin: Spotlight on Stan Sakai, B114
World-renowned cartoonist Stan Sakai has been writing, drawing, and even hand-lettering his beloved rabbit samurai series Usagi Yojimbo for
twenty-seven years and counting. Join Sakai for a discussion of Usagi's
history and future, as well as demonstrations and all-ages audience
participation! Moderated by Usagi series editor, Diana Schutz.
3:00 – 3:45 p.m. Euro Comics In Translation, B114
Join Diana Schutz, Executive Editor of Dark Horse's Manara Library and Blacksad,
for an informative look at what it takes to bring Europe's most
celebrated titles to new audiences in America. This panel will delve
into the process on properly editing, translating and publishing Euro
Comics for a very different market. All this will culminate in a sneak
peek of and discussion on the upcoming highly anticipated Blacksad: A Silent Hell by Juan Diaz Canales and Juanjo Guarnido. Moderated by Eisner and Harvey award-winning editor and writer Joe Keatinge.
5:00 – 5:45 p.m. Dark Horse Originals: Genius Redefining Genre, Room B-114
Join
Dark Horse Comics editor Philip Simon and PR director Jeremy Atkins to
hear about the latest comics and graphic novels coming out in the Dark
Horse Originals line, an imprint that Mike Richardson describes as a
place for "unique creators with unique visions expressed in quality
graphic novels." Dark Horse Originals has brought you such favorites as Blacksad, Citizen Rex, De:Tales, 3 Story,
and more! Don't miss special guests Peter Bagge, Jeff Parker, and Erika
Moen, who will talk about their new Dark Horse Originals projects!
SUNDAY, APRIL 29
Signings at the Dark Horse Booth
12:30 – 1:00 p.m. Peter Bagge (Reset)—FREE Reset print and exclusive
Stumptown Comics Fest ResetPassport
3:30 – 4:00 p.m. Steve Lieber (Alabaster)—FREE Alabaster print
Panels
12:00 – 1:45 p.m. Quenched Consciousness: A Tribute to Jean "Moebius" Giraud, B114
Join
Quenched Consciousness curator Ian MacEwan, Dark Horse Moebius line
editor Scott Allie and famed Madman cartoonist Michael Allred in a
tribute to the master creator moderated by Glory & Hell Yeah writer
Joe Keatinge. This look back at Giraud's illustrious career will include
art and insight into his many works including the Incal, Blueberry, Arzak, The Aedena Cycle, The Airtight Garage, Silver Surfer: Parable and
movies such as Alien, Tron, Fifth Element and Jodorwsky's Dune. The
discussion will begin with an introductory career overview by MacEwan
followed by interviews with Allred and Allie about their one-on-one
interactions with the master himself, the inspiration Giraud gave them
and his global affect on the medium and industry alike. The panel
includes a screening of the rarely seen documentary, Moebius Redux,
directed by Hasko Baumann. 2-HOUR SESSION
2:00 – 2:45 p.m. Beyond the Cape: Genre Fiction in Comics, B114
Join
moderator Christian Lipski and creators Vera Brosgol, Brian Churilla,
Brian Hurtt, Lukas Ketner, Batton Lash, Steve Lieber, Dylan Meconis, Ron
Randall, and Brandon Seifert in a conversation about the other kinds of
comics. Horror, sci-fi, western, romance -- creators talk about the
world outside the super-human. Is the 'mainstream' expanding to include
other genres, or are the smaller publishers growing their audience? What
are the publishing options for non-super titles? Is it a worthwhile
direction for authors and artists?
4:00 – 4:45 p.m. Making History, B114
What
do a Victorian robot, theology scholar, and rabbit ronin have in
common? They're the stars of three very different stories in historical
settings: Boilerplate: History's Mechanical Marvel; Family Man; and Usagi Yojimbo.
Join their creators--Paul Guinan and Anina Bennett, Dylan Meconis, and
Stan Sakai--for a lively discussion of history and storytelling.
RIVEN Sends a Shiver Through Dark Horse Presents
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RIVEN SENDS A SHIVER THROUGH
DARK HORSE PRESENTS!
APRIL 25, MILWAUKIE, OR—Riven, the latest tale set to debut in Dark
Horse Comics’ legendary anthology Dark
Horse Presents, marks a new beginning for horror fans!
Dark
Horse Comics recently announced the Riven
graphic novel, the third collaboration
between cowriters Bo
Hampton (The Legend of Sleepy Hollow) and Robert Tinnell (The
Wicked West), which is slated to hit stores
August 22. Riven’s three-part
story beginning in Dark Horse Presents #14
will serve as a chilling introduction to their world of terror.
“Dark Horse
Presents is bringing together such a great mix of talent and stories at the
moment that it’s honestly an honor to be included in the book. From all
the chatter Dark Horse Presents has
been generating it’s clear the book is appealing to discerning, articulate
readers—and those are precisely the sorts of people we hope are attracted to Riven,” said Robert Tinnell.
Riven’s Katya has been in a
coma for five years, and when she awakes, everything has changed. Now she is a
gorgeous teenager with a mysterious, gruesome past, becoming aware of a
growing, terrifying power inside her body, triggered by the touch of the full
moon, eager to break free . . . Can Katya solve the mystery of her
blood-drenched nightmares before they become reality?
“It was a great spawning ground in its original
incarnation and I’m really happy to be part of Dark Horse Presents now. I’m looking forward to seeing the Riven pages in that format,” Bo
Hampton added.
Check
out Riven in Dark Horse Presents #14, on sale July 18!
