Six-Gun Gorilla From BOOM!

It’s been a while since I’ve been excited about anything from BOOM! Studios. Not because they aren’t making good comics; just because I haven’t read any of them for a while. Next month, however, that looks to change. Six-Gun Gorilla looks and sounds very cool indeed.

BOOM! STUDIOS REVEALS SIMON SPURRIER’S SIX – GUN GORILLA 

IN STORES IN JUNE

This June, BOOM! Studios launches a bold new mash-up of Western and Sci-Fi with SIX-GUN GORILLA. Because the only thing better than a gorilla in a comic book is a gorilla with gigantic, matching six-shooters.

Inspired by an obscure public domain character, SIX-GUN GORILLA is created and written by Simon Spurrier (X-MEN: LEGACY, CROSSED: WISH YOU WERE HERE) with interior art by Jeff Stokely (FRAGGLE ROCK, THE REASON FOR DRAGONS) and featuring a cover by Eisner Award-winning artist Ramón Pérez (A TALE OF SAND, WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN), SIX – GUN GORILLA is a pulpy mash-up of Western weirdness and lo-fi science fiction unlike anything else on the stands!

Welcome to “the Blister” — a bizarre other-world colonized by humans sometime in the 22nd century, which quickly became a hotly-contested source of fertile land and natural resources long ago exhausted on Earth. In this new frontier, a rogue gunslinger and his companion wander across a wilderness in the grips of a civil war, encountering lawlessness, natives, and perversions of civilization in a world at the crossroads between the past and the future. The fact that said gunslinger is a bio-surgically modified silverback gorilla toting a pair of enormous revolvers is neither here nor there.

“The words “Six-Gun Gorilla” have squatted in my psyche – as immovable as only a revolver-packin’ primate can be – since I first heard them. How could I pass up the chance to breathe new life into such an insane, evocative title (so sinfully neglected since its inception as a 1939 pulp serial)?” explained Spurrier, “In deference to its unknown writer, our new version has mutated into a comic unlike any other: a relentless blast of deconstructive weirdness, gunsmoke, surreal frontiers and Awesome Ape Action. Six-Gun Gorilla is a head-poppin’, civil-warrin’, wilderness-crossin’ epic with sly sci-fi notes: a love-letter to the Western genre, signed with a flourish by a black-furred and blood-drenched fist.”

SIX – GUN GORILLA #1 will arrive in stores on June 12th with a cover by Ramón Pérez and carries a retail price of $3.99 under Diamond order code APR130933. And don’t forget to ask your retailer about the incentive cover by James Harren (B.P.R.D.)!

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 Oh, and BOOM! are also the latest publisher to give us Robocop comics too.

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May 16, 2013
Categories: Comic Art, Comics, New To Comics? . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Michael Midas Champion

Next month a new all-ages series debuts from former Batman editor Jordan B. Gorfinkel. The pic below looks awesome, and the premise sounds cool too.

BOOM Studios Presents MICHAEL MIDAS: CHAMPION!

Behind Every Cape And Cowl There’s A Human Side.

This June, BOOM! Studios is proud to announce MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION by Jordan B. Gorfinkel and Scott Benefiel. Wrapping a classic fairy tale in superhero comic book clothing, MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION blends the heart of It’s A Wonderful Life, the majesty of The Princess Bride and the thrills of Spider-Man.

MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION is the inspirational life story of Michael Midas, who, as told by a grandmother to her grandson, grows from being a boy—dealing with a playground crush stolen from him by a tormenting bully—into a crimson hero who dons a mask and battles evil, particularly the bully of his youth, who has, naturally, become his supervillain arch-nemesis. Through his triumphs and trials, Michael becomes a superhero so dedicated that he loses touch of what’s important in life—his loved ones—puttting them and the whole Earth on a path to complete destruction. But given a rare second chance, can Michael Midas Champion set things right? Will he?

Chris Renaud, director of DESPICABLE ME and DR. SEUSS’ THE LORAX, said, “MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION delivers a dynamic narrative and spectacular illustration while answering the question, ‘How do you balance a family and superpowers?’ Everyone can recognize their own life in the character of Michael Midas and that’s what makes it fun. I truly enjoyed reading this story.”

MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION is a full throttle, heart string tugging, all ages book filled with suspense, action, romance and wonderfully poignant scenes told in a cinematic wide-screen layout. A story that will touch a part of everyone that reads it.

Bonus: each issue also showcases an original short story, created by The Troika, the former Batman editors Jordan B. Gorfinkel, Scott Peterson and Darren Vincenzo, and special guests, including legendary Dark Knight writer/creator Denny O’Neil.

MICHAEL MIDAS CHAMPION will ship this July. This title is a six-issue mini-series which is accessible to all ages. Attention Consumers and Retailers–All six issues of Michael Midas Champion are complete, insuring on-time delivery and low-risk ordering.

Each issue will run 48 pages (with no interior ads) in a unique “Widescreen Comics” landscape format and will carry a $4.99 price point, with a Diamond Comics Distribution Order Code of MAY120978.

May 24, 2012
Categories: Comics, New To Comics? . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Extermination from BOOM! Studios

Here’s the press release about a June launching series from BOOM! Studios, plus the variant covers, and four text-free preview pages. Looks pretty good, and intense.

BOOM! STUDIOS LAUNCHES EXTERMINATION, ALL-NEW ORIGINAL ONGOING SERIES WRITTEN BY SIMON SPURRIER. FULL FIRST ISSUE ONLY $1.

This June, BOOM! Studios launches EXTERMINATION, an all-new ongoing super-hero thriller written by Simon Spurrier (X-CLUB, FEAR ITSELF: THE HOME FRONT, CROSSED, WOLVERINE: DANGEROUS GAMES) and drawn by rising star Jeffrey Edwards, with a full 22-page first issue for only $1!

WE LOST. THEY WON. In the wake of an apocalyptic alien invasion, the world’s greatest super-heroes and deadliest super-villains must form an alliance to prevent their own extermination. Two arch-enemies, Nox, a driven hero, and Red Reaper, a ruthless villain, form a volatile partnership for the greater good. The enemy of your enemy is your friend — but will they be able to ultimately put aside their bitter past to prevent global genocide? What happens when all the battle lines are redrawn and foes become unlikely allies in a desperate war for the fate of the very planet — and the outcome of a species?

Title ships in June with main covers by John Cassaday, Trevor Hairsine, Michael Gaydos, James Harren, and Frazer Irving, as well as James Harren and Trevor Hairsine sketch covers. There will also be a special 1:100, CGC certified 9.8 Near Mint sketch variant by legendary artist John Cassaday.

“Si Spurrier is a massive talent,” says BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “With EXTERMINATION, he’s boldly exploring the dark crevices of the entire superhero genre. Not to be missed!”

“I love the premise of this post-apocalyptic series,“ says BOOM! Studios Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ross Richie. “At $1 for the first full issue and with this exciting cover line-up and a killer creative team, this book is ready to catch on fire.”

EXTERMINATION is written by Simon Spurrier (X-CLUB, FEAR ITSELF: THE HOME FRONT, CROSSED, WOLVERINE: DANGEROUS GAMES) and drawn by rising star Jeffrey Edwards.

Title ships in June with main covers by John Cassaday, Trevor Hairsine, Michael Gaydos, James Harren and Frazer Irving. As well as James Harren and Trevor Hairsine sketch covers, and a special 1:100, CGC certified 9.8 Near Mint variant by legendary artist John Cassaday. This title ships for $1 with a Diamond Order Code of APR120887.

April 24, 2012
Categories: Comic Art, Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

EXT from BOOM! Studios

BOOM! don’t usually offer teasers for upcoming comics. That’s usually the modus operandi of Marvel. However, this looks kinda cool, in a Mark Millar type way. All we know is that it’s called EXT. Well, at least that’s the file name of the image below. Expect more info in the coming days or weeks.

And here’s the second teaser.

March 9, 2012
Categories: Comic Art . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Steed and Mrs Peel #1 Review

Back in 1990 Grant Morrison wrote this series for Eclipse Comics based on the classic spy TV series, The Avengers. Thanks to BOOM! Studios it’s back in print and here’s my review of the first issue.

Preview below.

January 23, 2012
Categories: Comic Art, Comics, New To Comics?, Reviews . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Adventure Time Comics at BOOM! Studios

Being a pop culture hound that I am, I’ve been aware of kooky, new cartoon series Adventure Time for a while now, but only actually watched it a few days ago when I stumbled upon it on TV. It’s like a crazy mash-up of Ren and Stimpy and Monty Python. Now, the fun is coming to comics, though since it’s coming from their all-ages imprint, I assume any of the more…subversive elements will be erased. Check out any random Adventure Time clips on YouTube and you’ll see what I mean. 

WHAT TIME IS IT?!

IT’S ADVENTURE TIME!

NEW ONGOING MONTHLY COMIC SERIES LAUNCHES THIS FEBRUARY

FROM BOOM! STUDIOS AND CARTOON NETWORK ENTERPRISES WITH RELEASE OF ADVENTURE TIME #1!

Cartoon Network’s smash hit animated comedy series Adventure Time is coming to BOOM! Studios’ all-ages imprint KaBOOM! in an ongoing monthly comic book series featuring all-new original stories! Hold on to your swords! Adventure Time #1 ships this February!

The highly-anticipated first issue from the monthly series features a story written by Ryan North, author of the smash-hit webcomic Dinosaur Comics, and drawn by Shelli Paroline, the artist of ICE AGE: ICED IN and MUPPET SNOW WHITE.

“It’s quite exciting to bring this series to comics. My wife and I are huge fans and sing Marceline’s ‘Daddy, why’d you eat my fries?’ song around the house all the time,” BOOM! Studios Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ross Richie said. “Pendleton Ward has created a brilliantly original voice in this show and it’s a true ‘All Ages’ property that appeals both to kids and also has a substantial amount of adult fans. Watch for the waving snail!

“It was like a bomb dropped in the office when we announced Adventure Time,” says BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “Everyone at BOOM! was just as excited as any fan. Adventure Time is such a classic story at its heart- a boy and his dog on different adventures – but the genius of the show allows us to take a simple concept and get really creative with the presentation. Everyone we’ve worked with is a huge fan of the show and creator Pen Ward has been instrumental in bringing this comic book to life. ”

The ADVENTURE TIME comic series will follow Finn the Human, Jake the Dog, Princess Bubblegum and the other inhabitants of the Land of Ooo as they explore many varied adventures. Since its debut on Cartoon Network, Adventure Time has become a runaway hit, with explosive growth in ratings, huge critical and fan acclaim, a major presence at fan conventions and more, it’s clear fandom is obsessed and 2012 is the Year of Adventure Time! Don’t miss out on this new phenomenon—this first issue is sure to get snapped up! You can pre-order the books at your local comic shop. Don’t know where it is? Go to http://www.comicshoplocator.com Or you can stop by BOOM! Studios (www.boom-studios.com)and pre-order issue #1 or a subscription today!

ADVENTURE TIME #1 is written by Ryan North with art by Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb. This title ships with three covers in a 75/25 split by Chris Houghton and Jeffrey Brown in a 1-in-10 incentive by Chris Houghton, a 1-in-20 incentive by Jeffrey Brown, and a 1-in-30 Chris Houghton Wraparound Cover. This title ships in February, featuring a price point of $3.99 with a Diamond Code of DEC110939.

Additional information about future books in the Adventure Time comic series from KaBOOM! will be available in the coming months.

 

December 28, 2011
Categories: Cartoons, Comic Art, Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: , . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Valen the Outcast #1 Review

Originally titled simply Outcast, this new series debut is only $1, and do you ever get a lot of bang for that buck! Hyped as “undead Conan,” this new BOOM! Studios title written by Michael Alan Nelson with art by Matteo Scalera (Deadpool) lives up to that cool description with a rousing tale, and a fair bit of bloodshed.

Things kick off with King Valen Brand of Oakhaven as the last man standing of his armies, being captured by his enemy, the necromancer Korrus Null who tells the defeated ruler that he doesn’t want his kingdom, but “something else entirely.”

Flashing forward Valen is alive and well (sort of) and has just received a magic tattoo from the lovely Zjanna who is none too supportive of his death wish to reclaim what was once his. Through the next few pages we learn that Valen is indeed a member of the living dead and just wants his soul back.

It’s obvious Nelson is having a ball here, with a daring tale to be told and lively characters thrown together. I even noticed a subtle Star Wars, and Aliens, reference. Seeking the shifty Alexio Cordovan out from a rowdy tavern to be his guide through the dangers of Wraithendal, the pair aren’t off to a great start, but Valen finds an opportunist who gives him what he’s after and leads him to well, danger.

An unlikely fellowship is forged and the adventure begins, though Null has a surprising secret weapon.

Nelson does well to not cram in a lot of mythology and background information of the main cast. It’s done organically through the entertaining story. We have the comedic character, the sexy character and Valen, the outcast in every sense of the word. Having a murdered king who is now living and feared by the people he once ruled, and soldiers he once fought beside, is a great idea and gives a real emotional weight to Valen’s noble, though dangerous, quest. He’s a typical ruler, but also a man of quiet focus and inner conflict, willing to make the most of his current existence.

This is a great example of how to craft a premiere issue of a new series. It’s easy to follow, with enough hooks to grab the reader and bring them back for the second issue. It did take some digging, but apparently this is an ongoing series, rather than BOOM!’s typical mini-series, but this concept is certainly strong enough to live up to that scope.

Nelson is one of comics’ most underrated writers, who is consistently entertaining, as he’s proven with 28 Days Later, Hawks of Outremer and many other series, including one of my faves – Hexed. In fact, he’s been responsible for a lot of BOOM!’s output in the last few years.

Scalera’s art is dynamic and expressive, especially during the well realised battles, and although the background details aren’t ornate, he fills this fantasy world with great costume design and manages to make the tavern, the forest and the village square all retain the look of the sword and sorcery setting. Archie van Buren’s colours bring much life and intensity when needed too, particularly during Zjanna’s hectic fight with a few of Null’s soldiers.

At only $1, you’d be wise to pick this great action packed fantasy debut up.

December 12, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, Comics, New To Comics?, Reviews . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Key of Z #1-2 Review

I must confess that I haven’t read a BOOM! comic for a while. In fact, the last series was DuckTales for our similarly themed podcast episode.

Key of Z intrigued me though, written as it is by partners Claudio Sanchez (of band Coheed & Cambria) and Chondra Echert, the pair behind writing the bold Kill Audio series about an immortal troll. Plus the artist here is Aaron Kuder is also responsible for Sanchez’s The Amory Wars. Time for another confession – I’ve read little of either, but I know both were filled with big ideas and daring art, so their take on zombies I had to see. Yes, I know zombies are the flavour of the month, or rather year, but having not been exposed to much Walking Dead (although I’m keen for Australia to get the TV series), I thought it was worth a look.

Opening with Nick Ewing and his family having a lovely time during Christmas Eve, they have their pleasant bonding interrupted by a zombie Santa outside their window, which is as freaky as it sounds. Jumping forward to 2012, the undead epidemic is underway and New York is divided into three fiefdoms, or Houses who live in the stadiums of the Mets, Yankees and Madison Square Garden. It’s an interesting setup to what could’ve been yet another predictable apocalyptic tale. Jumping forward to 2016, Ewing is out getting some fresh air (whereas most survivors prefer the safety of their sporting stadium). Seeing Ewing grow a beard and muscles over the span of 5 years is a nice and realistic touch, and it’s here that he meets Eddie Alvarez, a skinny, scared collector who lives at a library, and is virtually ignored by his own gang. They slowly befriend one another and exchange recent life stories before a detour to a cave of antique weapons and a surprise attack  by a mass of flesh eaters.

Editor Matt Gagnon’s letter mentions what is fairly obvious, with comic DMZ, Walking Dead and cult film The Warriors being an influence on this story, and I get the feeling that only being vaguely aware of those 2 series has helped me enjoy this more. Gagnon also mentions that Ewing’s wife and boy were murdered, although that’s not overtly stated in this first issue.

In the second issue which is set two years before the debut ish, we get to know the three houses more. Atwater is the more educated leader and reminds me of Morpheus in the last Matrix film, whereas Lavoe is far less interested in the needs of others and resembles Scarface, in his tax charging and brutal regime. The pair meet for a treaty and Lavoe bluntly states that he isn’t interested in any altruistic deal with Atwater and Jackson. In the aftermath of the devastation, Ewing learns that a silver harmonica his son gave him on that fateful Christmas has magical properties. Well, perhaps magical’s not the best word, but it’s certainly unique and when played properly, give shim the powers of a putrified Pied Piper, bringing the zombies right to him. It seems like an odd ability, but I guess Ewing is stronger and faster than the zombies, so at least he knows where they are and can destroy them so as not to be surprised later.

Ending with more interaction between Ewing and Alvarez, and a mission for revenge steers the last two issues of this mini-series to a good place.

Kuder’s art has to be mentioned. With its fluid linework, and simple, yet effective details such as textures it evokes Frank Quitely. Coupled with Charlie Kirchoff’s col0ur choices (subdued and quite hazy during dramatic scenes, bold during the zombie bashing) it looks pretty and never ventures into bloodthirtsy territory. Yes, there’s teeth flying and charred corpses, but it never looks over the top.

These 2 issues mark the halfway mark, but I’m already sold and I’m glad I let my curiosity get the better of me. Key of Z #1 and 2 are out now, and #3 will be released on December 28.

November 21, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, New To Comics?, Reviews . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

It’s All About Planet of the Apes

It’s a good time to be a POTA fan, and next month will be even better. BOOM! Studios’ new Planet of the Apes comic has recently started, and next month sees the release of the first TPB collecting the series’ first four issues for only $10, which ties into the mythology of (and is set before) the original films. The same month, the fifth issue is released, for only $1 and is the start of a new story arc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you can’t wait until then, you might want to check out the just launched Apes webcomic, which updates every Wednesday and is written by the man behind BOOM!’s series, Daryl Gregory.

A new free five page RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES digital comic book story debuts on http://www.apescomics.com July 13th and each Wednesday afterwards until the final 10 page epic conclusion on August 3rd, two days before the film’s release!

It’s set before the newest film, which opens on August 5 and stars James Franco and Andy Serkis in another motion capture role.

Speaking of the film, here’s the latest trailer.

Finally, Archaia are publishing their first illustrated novel on July 25. It’s called Conspiracy of the Planet of the Apes and is described thusly:

After his spacecraft smashes into the dead sea of an alien planet, a man is separated from his fellow astronauts when a raiding party of intelligent apes attacks them. Captured, he finds himself a prisoner in a world turned upside down, with apes as the rulers and man in its zoos. His only hope is to communicate with a couple of chimpanzee scientists who just might be open-minded and compassionate enough to be sympathetic to his cause. But the man named John Landon will discover that intelligent minds, be they ape or man, all fear the unknown, and his destiny is not to become part of this new world, but instead to find himself under the knife of a simian brain surgeon on the PLANET OF THE APES.

Written by Andrew E.C. Gaska and featuring 30 full colour paintings and 19 illustrations by some great artists and a cover by Jim Steranko, it’s set within the events of the original 1968 film.

July 13, 2011
Categories: Movies, New To Comics?, News . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Extra Sequential Podcast #48-July Previews

46 mins. We look at the goodies in the latest Previews monthly catalogue, for September releasing comics. Also, Mladen guesses the identities of the new Justice League International,  plush toy that reminds us of Kevin Bacon, Ice Man’s clothing choices and the Dead Block zombie game.

LISTEN TO IT BELOW, DOWNLOAD IT HERE OR ON ITUNES

You can email us at kris (at)extrasequential(dot)com and befriend us on the NEW ES Facebook page.

1:20 NEWS

Marvel’s Facebook popularity

Dark Horizons’ best comics films list

The upcoming animated film Batman: Year One trailer

Warren Ellis and D’Israeli’s unique, ultraviolet comic, SVK

Harvey Award nominees

Read Orc stain #1 for free

Heroes and Villains comics exhibition

11:52 THEME-JULY PREVIEWS

We recommend stuff from a gamut of publishers including Dark Horse, IDW, Alterna, BOOM! Studios, and Fantagraphics. We check out comics such as a few of the DC relaunches, Ghostbusters #1, classic Flash Gordon, Jim Henson’s A Tale of Sand, Daniel Clowes’ The Death Ray, Michael Zulli’s The Fracture of the Universal Boy, Frank Miller’s Holy Terror!, Korgi, James Jean’s Rebus art book, Star Wars comics art, and blueprints books, and some possibly alluring Halloween costumes. Phew.

July 9, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, New To Comics?, Podcast . Tags: , , , . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: 2 Comments

Elric: The Balance Lost

I quite enjoyed the Elric #0 issue BOOM! offered during this year’s Free Comic Book Day, and I’m looking forward to this official kick-off of the new series too. Yes, what follows is a rather lengthy press release, but the point it raises of BOOM! premiering digital releases is a good one, and people tend to forget that. I remember when North Wind #1 debuted on MySpace and it being a pretty controversial move at the time. Now, however, everyone’s getting on the digital bandwagon,  including The Big Two (Marvel and DC) and realising its potential.

BOOM! STUDIOS DEBUTS ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST AS DAY-AND-DATE RELEASE

READ THE ELRIC FREE ONLINE PRELUDE AT WWW.ELRICCOMIC.COM

BUY ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1 IN PRINT OR DIGITALLY TODAY

THE PIONEERS OF “DAY-AND-DATE” KEEP LEADING THE FIELD

Today BOOM! Studios launches their latest epic series ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1 with a historic day-and-date release of print and digital, making this new series available through your local comic shop and online exclusively through the BOOM! Studios Comics App and the Comics by comiXology App at the same time! Paired with this epic promotion, BOOM! also gives comic fans a chance to try out ELRIC absolutely free through their web browser with the ELRIC FREE ONLINE PRELUDE available at www.elriccomic.com. That’s right! Three ways to try the all-new epic series ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST written byNew York Times bestselling author Chris Roberson (iZOMBIE, SUPERMAN) and drawn by white-hot artist Francesco Biagini (DINGO) based on Michael Moorcock’s seminal fantasy creation. Pick up or download your copy today!

BOOM! Studios pioneered day-and-date releases in the comic industry back in January of 2008 with the debut of the NORTH WIND series and continued this innovative promotion with HEXED a year later. With ELRIC, BOOM! enters its third year as the cutting-edge leader of “day-and-date” release.

“We were the first to do day-and-date back in 2008 and now we’re doing it again with Elric! We’re pumped to offer ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST in both print and digital on the same day partnered with a new website, www.elriccomic.com, that hosts an original 10-page story.  If you love Elric or are new to the character, the website will introduce you to the series and leads directly into the new issue for sale in print or digital!” says BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Matt Gagnon. “Chris Roberson and Francesco Biagini take Michael Moorcock’s seminal fantasy character to the next level with such an epic scope from the very first page that it’ll be hard to put down!”

“Jumping aboard an all-new comic series has never been this easy!” says BOOM! Studios Marketing & Sales Director Chip Mosher. “With so many ways to check out ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST, you’d be crazy to not take advantage of these great promotions. And be sure to let your friends know that they too can check out the exciting prelude to the ELRIC series, absolutely free at www.elriccomic.com!”

“With ELRIC, we’re not only focusing on print and mobile devices exclusively, but getting out onto internet browsers that billions of people use every day,” says Marketing & Sales Director Chip Mosher. “While there are only 25 million iPads out in the marketplace, there are billions of potential readers that have the ability to find comic books through their internet browsers. With our ELRIC microsite at www.elriccomic.com we’ve not only included a complete prelude for free, but information on how and where to buy our comics both in print and digital — linking to both print, mobile vendors, and the lesser-known web-based option where you can buy and read through the browser as well.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comic fans, be sure to visit your local comic shop today to pick up your copy of ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1. Not sure where there’s a comic shop near you? Visit http://www.elriccomic.com/local-comic-shop to find out! And for all you folks that love digital comics, you can download ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1 from the BOOM! Studios Comics App or Comics by comiXology App today!

Created by Michael Moorcock, Elric has thrilled comic fans for more than 40 years beginning with an appearance in Marvel Comics’ CONAN THE BARBARIAN #15 in 1972. Neil Gaiman called Michael Moorcock “my model for what a writer was” while Warren Ellis said he is one of the “eight core sites in my creative genome” — now, the godfather of the Multiverse concept brings one of the most critically acclaimed and most recognizable figures in the history of fantasy fiction back to sequential art with BOOM! Studios’ ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST!

And if you’ve never heard of ELRIC, you’re in luck! BOOM! Studios is offering the ELRIC FREE ONLINE PRELUDE for anyone to read online at www.elriccomic.com! Showcasing an original complete 10-page story not found in the first issue, along with artist bios and a brief history of Michael Moorcock’s Eternal Champion ELRIC!

ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST features the return of Michael Moorcock’s legendary Multiverse, featuring some of the greatest fantasy characters of all time: Elric of Melniboné, Corum of the Scarlet Robe, and Dorian Hawkmoon in a brand-new story that will test the courage of the Eternal Champion! In this new series, the workings of Fate are being tampered with across the Multiverse, upsetting the Cosmic Balance. Elric of Melniboné must preserve the Balance and save the entire Multiverse from ruin. But no sooner has his journey begun than he is waylaid by dark forces and lost on the Moonbeam Roads. Elric finds himself stranded on a world where Chaos holds sway and where change is the only constant. Heroes are forced into action far and wide, but will they fight on the side of Law or Chaos?

With both the BOOM! Studios Comics App on the iOS platform and the Comics by comiXology App on iOS and Android devices, you can buy ELRIC on either your iPhone, iPad or Android device and enjoy it on that device. When you buy a comic on one of these mobile platforms, you can also enjoy reading the comic through the comics.comixology.com website. If you do not own a mobile device and want to read the comic digitally, all you have to do is go to comics.comixology.com to buy ELRIC to read on your PC or Mac through your browser. Utilizing www.elriccomic.com as an introduction and a portal gives comic book readers an easy way to enjoy the free prelude, then buy the first issue in print at their local comic shop, on their mobile device or on their browser.

In late August, comic book retailers everywhere will be able to participate in the sales of BOOM! Studios digital comics as BOOM! Studios and comiXology roll out retailer digital store fronts.

ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1 debuts in print and digitally today, July 6, 2011, and is written by Chris Roberson (iZOMBIE, SUPERMAN) and drawn by Francesco Biagini (DINGO) and includes an afterword by Neil Gaiman. This title ships with A & B covers in a 50/50 split with art by Francesco Mattina and Francesco Biagini respectively, as well as a 1-in-10 incentive cover by Dennis Calero and a 1-in-25 incentive cover by Tim Bradstreet. This premiere issue can be purchased at your local comic shop, through the BOOM! Studios Comics App, Comics by comiXology App and the web atcomics.comixology.com for $3.99. ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #1 carries a Diamond Code of MAY110918.

July 6, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, New To Comics?, News . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Starborn #5 Review

BOOM! sure do go after the big names; Disney, Planet of the Apes, Mark Waid, Stan Lee. Lee is of course the architect of the early Marvel Universe and helped birth Spider-Man, X-Men, et al, but the last few decades have seen him do not much writing and more overseeing. That’s kind of what he’s doing here, giving a few story ideas to modern scribes and letting them do their thing. I haven’t read may of the handful of Stan Lee’s …. line of new series, but this issue is geared as a jumping on point, so I thought I’d give it a go, and I’m glad I did.

Written by Chris Roberson (Cinderella; From Fabletown With Love, Superman) with art by Kary Randolp and Mateo Scalera it focuses on wannabe novelist Benjamin Warner. Stuck in a droll job he discovers that his dream girl Tara is actually a shape shifter form another planet and that the aliens coming to get him seem to be ripped from his imagination.

As this ish begins, Benjamin in a fancy space suit, Tara and a sceptical General Cur are inside Demon,  living spaceship hurtling through space trying to come to grips with how, or if, Ben’s mind has created what he’s living, before getting attacked. On earth a few cool looking aliens, led by a dreadlocked female surmise that Tara’s group, Crimson Hand hid their advanced technology on earth before fleeing and Demon lands on  mining planet to heal. While a disguised Tara haggles for supplies, Ben saves a woman and her child from an angry, whip wielding local and Ben learns that A. His hi-tech suit is full of surprises and B. For some reason he’s known on this world, and isn’t popular at all.

It’s not a perfect jumping on point as there is a fair lot of story to digest, but is an entertaining sci-fi story of the classic ordinary-man-in-extraordinary-circumstances approach. I’m curious to know more about Benjamin and just why his imagination is becoming real, and the place he plays in the universe. The art is amongst the best of these Stan Lee tales too, with a slightly sketchy yet expressive cartoony style that works with unfolding drama and Ben’s frequently overwhelmed expressions.

Also included is an action packed 8 page preview of Insurrection V3.6 #1 which looks like an interesting sci-fi tale too.

April 20, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, Comics, Reviews . Tags: , . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Planet Of The Apes #1 Preview

For an old French sci-fi novel, Planet of the Apes sure has some longevity. The upcoming prequel has now had a third title change and is now known as Rise of the Planet of the Apes. It stars James Franco and Andy Serkis and opens in August. If you can’t wait that long, BOOM! Studios has you sorted. The publisher is releasing its new Planet of the Apes comic at the end of this month. Multiple covers and preview pages below.

HITTING STORE SHELVES APRIL 27, 2011!

BOOM! Studios brings you a stunning first look at the all-new ongoing PLANET OF THE APES comic series hitting store shelves April 27,2011! It’s a bold new vision of the classic Apes universe written by award-winning sci-fi novelist Daryl Gregory (Dracula: The Company of Monsters, Pandemonium) and drawn by sensational artist Carlos Magno (Green Lantern Corps). So be sure to contact your local comic shop to reserve your copy of PLANET OF THE APES #1 today!

Taking place before the original 1968 PLANET OF THE APES movie, but true to the continuity of the first five films, this new ongoing comic series begins in a time when Ape society reaches a new golden age. But there are ripples of dissent in both the ape and human ranks. Tensions will rise and soon all will be caught in chaos! And amidst all this uncertainty, what is the fate of…The Lawgiver? Find out as a new chapter of the acclaimed sci-fi classic, PLANET OF THE APES, begins this April!

PLANET OF THE APES #1 is written by Daryl Gregory with art by Carlos Magno and ships with an A & B cover by Karl Richardson and Carlos Magno respectively, a special 1-in-10 “Damn Dirty Apes” incentive cover and a retailer variant for Larry’s Comics by Chad Hardin! This title ships in April and carries a Diamond Code of FEB110852.

April 8, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, New To Comics?, News . Tags: , . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

Amory Wars For Newbies

Musician Claudio Sanchez (from the band Coheed & Cambria) is also an accomplished comics scribe, with his sci-fi epic Amory Wars continuing at BOOM! Studios. I interviewed the man himself right here (on page 60) and if you’re like me and new to the Amory Wars story, now’s the time to see what it’s all about.

CLAUDIO SANCHEZ & BOOM! STUDIOS BRING YOU A HUGE WEEK FOR AMORY WARS RELEASES:

NEW READERS! JUMP RIGHT INTO THE ACTION WITH THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #1 $1 EDITION

CATCH UP WITH ANY ISSUES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED WITH THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 VOL. 2

CONTINUE THE EPIC SCI-FI SAGA IN THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #9

Claudio Sanchez and THE AMORY WARS fans prepare for a release of gigantic proportions as today, Wednesday, March 30, 2011, three fantastic titles take you back to Heaven’s Fence with THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #1 $1 EDITION, THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 Vol. 2 and THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #9. Start, catch up and continue the epic sci-fi saga written by musical mastermind Claudio Sanchez with comics legend Peter David , and featuring sensational art by BATMAN & ROBIN’s Chris Burnham, Kyle Strahm and Aaron Kuder!

For anyone who’s never experienced Claudio Sanchez’ intergalactic 12-issue tour de force, THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #1 $1 EDITION is an amazing way to jump straight into the action for $1. That’s right! For only one dollar, begin Claudio Kilgannon’s adventure of war and rebirth against the evil forces of galactic dictator Wilhelm Ryan!

Enjoy the series but not sure if you’re reading the whole story? THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 Vol. 2 collects issues #5-8 and drops you right in the middle of the greatest war Heaven’s Fence has ever known! It’s heart-stopping action as Inferno leads his rebel forces against the sinister Wilhelm Ryan and Mayo Deftinwolf’s Red Army. But when the dust settles, the war is far from over.

Once you’re caught up, continue the unfolding space opera with the latest release THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #9! The grand victory of Inferno and the rest of the Rebellion soon gives rise to their biggest fear. When an evil figure reappears…Heaven’s Fence faces its darkest hour. Claudio Kilgannon must step up and be the hero the universe needs — but will he answer the call?

THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #1 $1 EDITION is written by Claudio Sanchez and Peter David with art Chris Burnham. This issue carries Diamond Code of JAN111024 and a price point of only $1. THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 Vol. 2 collects issues #5-8 and is written by Claudio Sanchez and Peter David with art by Chris Burnham with Kyle Strahm and Aaron Kuder. This issue carries Diamond Code of JAN111022 and a price point of $14.99. THE AMORY WARS: IN KEEPING SECRETS OF SILENT EARTH: 3 #9 is written by Claudio Sanchez and Peter David with art by Aaron Kuder. This issue carries a Diamond Code of JAN111021 and a price point of $3.99.

March 31, 2011
Categories: Comic Art, New To Comics?, News . Tags: . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a Comment

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