|
07/08/16 @ 3:25 am EST
Ben Fisher, best known for writing Grumpy Cat, is now shifting gears and working on a post-apocalyptic drama series called The Great Divide. He talks with Byron Brewerabout the first issue that will be on sale from Dynamite in September. Cover A by Mike Henderson, Cover B by Adam Markiewicz, Cover C by Kyle Strahm.  BYRON BREWER: Ben, Dynamite readers may know you best as a writer on the tremendously popular Grumpy Cat title, but this is something worlds away. Tell us how you came to create The Great Divide as a concept and how it came to Dynamite.BEN FISHER: As a writer, I’m always interested in exploring how people with different backgrounds and viewpoints interact – particularly if they’re forced to come together under unusual circumstances. That concept holds true whether the premise is comedy or (in this case) post-apocalyptic drama.One day I was standing on an overcrowded bus heading into downtown Portland, uncomfortable and claustrophobic, and the thought occurred to me: how would the world operate if physical contact was literally a death sentence? Could personal relationships exist if just being in the same room as someone else was a potential risk?So I reached out to Adam Markiewicz, who really has a gift for letting human emotion shine through his panels, and together we brought the concept to Dynamite. They were immediately enthusiastic about the idea, and we really couldn’t have asked for better partners. BB: How closely have you Adam collaborated on the look and design for this book? I would imagine atmosphere is important in this type of series.BF: Atmosphere is essential, absolutely. Adam and I had many discussions about how people completely lacking human contact might express themselves in art, and the post-Divide world is filled with examples of that. We also wanted to capture a society at the beginning stages of admitting defeat – of recognizing that its extinction is a foregone conclusion.As a matter of pure aesthetics, Adam (along with Adam Guzowski, the book’s colorist) put a ton of consideration into conveying loneliness in their depiction of the landscape. BB: Tell us, if you will, about the world in which this series takes place.BF: The series is set in the near future, where all of humanity suffers from a mysterious affliction that causes any skin contact to result in agonizing death. But things only get stranger from there: when two people touch, only one dies, and the victim’s memories transfer to the survivor – usually with devastating effects (such as mental instability and the complete loss of the ability to read and write). To make matters worse, the entire planet periodically enters a temporary sleepwalking trance.And nobody has any idea why all of this is happening. (Well, okay, Adam and I might have an idea.)  BB: Simply, what is the “Divide” that occurs?BF: The “Divide” refers to the exact moment when every person simultaneously contracted “dermadik” – a condition that results in instant death upon skin contact. It also refers to the time when “walkabouts” (the unconscious, uncontrollable bouts of migration) first started.It speaks to the gap in genuine human connection that plagues so many of us in real life, only in this world it has become literalized.Wait, was that “simply?” Sorry, I’m terrible at following directions. BB: A post-apocalyptic environment is very popular in today’s comics, it seems. How will The Great Divide set itself apart from those other series?BF: The concept itself is a bit of a departure from traditional post-apocalyptic stories. We’ve created a fairly unique world and populated it with some very non-traditional characters.But truthfully, almost every action/adventure/horror story is “pre-apocalyptic,” with the protagonists valiantly struggling to stop the Really Bad Thing. A “post-apocalyptic” story just happens to take place after the Really Bad Thing has already happened. I think there’s a lot of headroom for both. BB: Who are the protagonists for this horror-fueled sci-fi drama?BF: At the heart of the story are two people who connect in traditional Hollywood romantic fashion: Paul is an aimless wanderer content to run out the clock on his life. At least, until he meets Maria, who immediately beats him unconscious, robs him, and leaves him for dead.During their journey, we’ll be introducing a strange and diverse cast, including a former solider who often serves as the group’s moral compass, a sociopath who collects memories, and a “baredevil” who thrives on the adrenaline rush of over-exposure.  BB: From what I understand, this is a very character-driven story. Was there any particular inspiration for the challenges our pair face?BF: That’s exactly right, and the post-Divide world allows us to focus a spotlight on the fears of intimacy and human connection that we all share. That’s the real inspiration for Paul and Maria’s relationship. Getting too close to another person is – literally – dangerous. And all the voices from your past encounters echo around your head until you aren’t sure if your own thoughts and emotions can be trusted.So it’s the same issues we all face – just with deadlier consequences and the occasional roving marauder. BB: I understand each issue of The Great Divide will also contain unique bonus content. In fact, #1 includes a download code for “Teowawki,” a doomsday-oriented song written and performed by … Ben Fisher! Tell us about it, and some of the other bonus content which may be coming.BF: Adam and I wanted to include additional digital content with each issue as our way of thanking readers who choose to spend time with us. The first issue will include a tongue-in-cheek song I wrote about a doomsday prepper on a first date. It felt like a thematically appropriate choice. The second issue will have downloadable pages to a post-apocalyptic adult coloring book drawn by Adam.We’ve got a lot of fun stuff planned and, as I hope is evident, we’re not letting the dark tone of the book suck all the fun out of the room. The story is filled with bits of humor and lighter moments to offset humanity’s grim situation, and the bonus content will certainly reflect that.In addition to the digital content, our enthusiasm for The Great Divide has spilled over into our other passions. We’re both musicians (Adam in particular has an ear for ambient soundtracks) and we’ve written a full original score for the series, which we’ll make available online (for free!) to help set the mood.
04/22/22 @ 9:40 am EST
Dynamite Entertainment announces the release of the hotly anticipated original graphic novel Thunderous is available for readers to reserve now on Indiegogo.
Aiyana is an indigenous teen from South Dakota with a life like any other, but all of her understandings of the world around her are flipped upside down when she journeys to a special world. She will meet new friends and foes, and learn to embrace her family's proud heritage.
Thunderous is co-written by the acclaimed duo of M.L. Smoker and Natalie Peeterse, both acclaimed poets, writers and figures in the Native American community. Alongside interior artist Dale Deforest and cover artist Oriol Vidal, the creative team has crafted a memorable coming of age tale that will appeal to all kinds of readers.
“The importance of new narratives that are formed from the creativity, resilience and power of Native American communities are necessary to correct the pervasive and damaging stereotypes, misconceptions and ideas that exist in this country about us,” said Smoker. “I hope this is a story that resonates for many children, but, in particular that some Native youth will see themselves reflected in literature and believe they can be their own authors, painters, musicians, and creators in the future. Because representation matters.”
The 100-plus page graphic novel is the kickoff of the ongoing partnership between Dynamite and Curiosity Ink Media, in producing a range of original and licensed stories with diverse perspectives, creative talent, and range of audiences.
Readers and parents can get the new graphic novel now on Indiegogo for a limited time.
 
04/21/22 @ 9:54 am EST
Dynamite announces a historic summer crossover of epic proportions, as two beloved brands smash together in all their gross-out glory in Madballs™ vs. Garbage Pail Kids! The two legendary franchises have been captivating audiences young and old for over three decades, co-ruling a corner of counterculture with their pun-heavy names, subversive humor, and inventive art and design. Now, as part of an exciting merchandising blitz, Dynamite is proud to publish an ambitious comic book series showing just how these misfits might get along – or destroy everything around them!
 The story is written by Sholly Fisch, experienced across a deep bibliography with franchises like Superman, Star Wars, Scooby-Doo, Mighty Mouse, and Looney Tunes. His award-nominated work has always balanced appealing to all ages and seamlessly adapting franchises with passionate fanbases. Though, he holds his tongue on spoiling which side might win in this battle. "Let's just say that, no matter which side you're on, you'll find stuff to make you laugh. And, if you're not careful, you may get splattered with slime or toxic waste, too," said writer Sholly Fisch.
Fisch is joined by artist, Jason Crosby, known for drawing the Garbage Pail Kids already for Topps' latest trading card and sketch card sets. Now, he's dove headfirst into research to equally hone his Madballs.
"I try to have my work full of energy, movement, and splattered goop, so honestly, drawing these two franchises is right up my alley," said artist Jason Crosby. "My work isn't subtle, and I hope it explodes off the page."
In addition to Jason's action and gross-packed artwork in the story, the comic series will feature collectible variant covers by him and others. A project like this would be incomplete without the contributions of legendary GPK artist, Joe ... 04/19/22 @ 2:09 pm EST
The legendary title Savage Tales returns this July to heat up the summer with a special anthology with stunning artwork and stories. Across four stories, readers will get to hang with their favorites Red Sonja and Vampirella as written by Scott Brian Wilson, as well as classics Allan Quatermain and Captain Gullivar Jones by David Avallone. Red Sonja's "The Executioner's Sword" features the art of Al Barrionuevo (Batman Gotham Knights, Storm), as the She-Devil deals with a horrific mix of magic and swordcraft.
"Missionaries of Madness" starring Alan Quatermain with art by Will Rio pits the legendary hunter against a cult worshipping Cthulhu. Equipped with just a rifle, can Quatermain stand against the dread of the Great Old Ones?
   The stories starring Vampirella and Captain Gullivar Jones are drawn by two up and coming artists from the legendary Kubert School. Founded by the innovative Joe Kubert, known for his acclaimed war, superhero, drama, and autobiographical comics, the prestigious institution offers students an unparalled education in cartooning and graphic art.
Vampirella stars in the comically titled "Horrible People Doing Horrible Things To Horrible People" for a Warren era styled morality tale. Kubert School artist Mariano Benitez Chapo is excited to take on this classicly styled story.
Captain Gullivar Jones is drawn by Kubie Hamish Cook, in "His War." Taking place years after his adventure on Mars, Jones finds himself amidst a new darker war that may just lead to his redemption.
The legacy of Savage Tales and other anthology mags in its vein rests just as much on standout covers. Arthur Suydam depicts Vampirella in an homage and now companion to his cover starring Red Sonja for Dynamite's ... 04/19/22 @ 1:56 pm EST
04/19/22 @ 10:42 am EST
Dynamite is excited to announce an upcoming new title, The Scarlet Sisters, starring the trio of Masquerade, the Woman in Red, and Lady Satan as you’ve never seen before. The story is written by Alex Segura (Archie, Secret Identity) and drawn by Emiliana Pinna (Immortal Red Sonja).
This deadly trio of heroines bring their own special brand of vigilantism in addition to their captivating red threads. Together they will dish out justice in a tale steeped in noir tradition, a genre not unfamiliar to acclaimed author Alex Segura. His recently released novel Secret Identity, which blends mystery with fictional tales of the comic book industry, has been met with rave reviews. Segura also has plenty of experience in the comics world himself, as the writer on hit stories like Archie Meets the Ramones and The Black Ghost.
Previous iterations of the Scarlet Sisters featured Masquerade as a socialite on vacation, with a last minute need for a masquerade ball costume. She doesn't heed the warning by the shop keeper that the costume she's picked out is possessed by the spirit of justice. When the spirit prods her into action, it turns out she likes this whole crimefighting deal.
The Woman in Red made history in 1940, as the first masked female crime fighter in the burgeoning comic book medium. By day she is police detective Peggy Allen, already pushing boundaries. Yet she is constantly frustrated with criminals escaping justice, and seeks to take matters into her own hands.
Lady Satan has been perhaps the most mysterious of the three. What is known is that she was a young woman with a bright future ahead with a dashing fiancé. All of that was ripped away from her with a ... 03/14/22 @ 3:19 pm EST
Dynamite is proud to announce its first licensed children's book in collaboration with partner Curiosity Ink Media, based on hit animated preschool series, PAW Patrol, airing on Nickelodeon and produced by Spin Master Entertainment.
The new softcover activity book titled PAWsome PUPpets! is the perfect book for young fans of the heroic pack of rescue pups to have fun with their own arts and crafts alongside parents or friends. Across 48 full color pages with clear photographs and illustrations, readers will learn how to create their own PAW Patrol "PUPpets" with step by step instructions to guide them through the "paws on" process. The puppets are created using age-appropriate and easily accessible materials and tools, requiring only limited help from adults. There are 12 total designs included, so kids can make all their favorite characters. PAW Patrol: PAWsome PUPpets! also includes a bonus chapter with tips on how to use the created puppets for fun performances, how to build a simple puppet theater, and even mini-scripts that even the youngest Paw Patrol fans can act out. To help create the puppets, the book comes with punch-outs of the signature characters' facial features and accessories, as well as templates for tracing - helping kids of all ages bring their favorites to life. PAW Patrol: PAWsome PUPpets! is part of the ongoing partnership between Dynamite Entertainment and Curiosity Ink Media in bringing both beloved licensed properties and exciting brand new stories to readers of all ages. 03/14/22 @ 2:59 pm EST
Get to know the Vamp, as the sensual pulp variant of the Daughter of Drakulon stars in a new one-shot this June.
Writers Tom Sniegoski, Jeannine Acheson, and artist Daniel Maine expanded the multiversal web of Vampirella in their hit event series Vampiverse this past year. Fans of the most beloved vampiress in comics got to meet countless alternate universe and timeline iterations of their favorite. A couple really stood out amongst the rest though, and The Vamp kicks off the first full spotlight.
   The Vamp is a mysterious crime fighter in a 1930s pulp world. Now her full origin will be revealed. Where did she come from? As well as how she established her reputation and became the scourge of all things evil. Even in this world, the infamous Cult of Chaos exists, and she may even have a surprising connection to them... Writer Jeannine Acheson shared, "The Vamp was definitely one of the characters that stood out to us as we wrote the Vampiverse mini-series. She was one of the more 'fleshed-out' Vampirellas -- taking on a life of her own as soon as she appeared -- so Tom and I are really excited to re-visit her in this issue!"
"I'm a huge fan of the pulps (The Shadow, Doc Savage, The Spider) and getting a chance to write a Vampirella with that kind of crazy, over-the-top storytelling is something that I can't wait to do," said writer Tom Sniegoski. "There's even a talking orangutan butler, for Pete's sake!"
The same fan-favorite creative team returns, and invites fans to join them this summer for a titanic tale of terror, action, and adventure that will both further ... 03/14/22 @ 2:45 pm EST
The Boys are kicking down everyone's metaphorical door one more time, with the viral sensation spinoff The Boys: Diabolical on Prime Video now, and the hotly anticipated third season around the corner in June. Dynamite is adding to the fun with the third and final oversized omnibus hardcover of the original comic series with a targeted release for July. Writer and co-creator Garth Ennis shared, "Great to see these new editions from Dynamite, I hope there’ll be many more." "With Season 3 of the Amazon Prime show about to launch, people are showing a lot of interest in the original comics," added artist and co-creator Darick Robertson. "And these omnibuses have been a great opportunity for new readers to jump in and discover the original stories that inspired the show." At nearly 800 beautiful and grizzly, oversized pages, wrapped in a sleek dustjacket, and stuffed with extras, the finale goes out with a bang even louder than the kickoff. 30 full issues are reprinted within, comprising #49-72 of the core title The Boys, as well as the third and final original interlocked miniseries, Butcher, Baker, Candlestickmaker. In this harrowing and explosive last chapters, all of the deepest, darkest secrets are revealed that the hit show has yet to delve deeply into. Wee Hughie is guided by Mallory through the early history of The Boys, including their first face-off with The Seven. Then, take a bit of a breather - not really - with a chronicle through fan-favorite Billy Butcher's earliest years and his life with Becky before everything went wrong. Only to jump back to the main arcs as Butcher finally nears getting his revenge and Homelander starts a literal superhuman war. Lastly, it all falls to Hughie ... 03/14/22 @ 10:48 am EST
Dynamite invites fans to meet an all-new variant on the Red Sonja mythos this summer in new series Samurai Sonja! Thanks to the boundary-exploding crossover event of Sonjaversal, readers learned that infinite variations on the concept of Red Sonja exist across time and space. The next breakout take on that premise brings fans to the Sengoku period of Japanese history. In a time of near-constant war, a new Sonja rises. The daughter of a slain samurai, she will take on his sword and eagerly set out to prove herself worthy of her family's legacy.
   Yet her journey goes awry when she makes a deal for her life with the goddess Amaterasu in a desperate moment. Sonja will be gifted a set of magical armor and powerful weapons capable of slaying mythical beasts. However, if she falls in battle, her entire bloodline will be erased from history, and her family's name will be no more. The new series is being crafted by writer Jordan Clark, known for his contributions to Aquaman and the Star Wars franchise. He's joined by artist Pasquale Qualano, continuing his exploration of multiversal Sonjas. The squad is rounded out by colorist Kike J. Diaz and letterer Jeff Eckleberry. "I'm so excited to introduce readers to the world of Samurai Sonja!," said writer Jordan Clark. "As a long time fan of samurai culture and folklore, getting a chance to merge those sensibilities with a timeless character like Sonja has been a blast. She embodies so much of the Bushido Code as a fierce warrior with a strong sense of justice as well as compassion. This is my love letter to works like Seven Samurai and Vagabond and if you've enjoyed Pasquale's ... 02/09/22 @ 9:18 pm EST
Dynamite Entertainment and Curiosity Ink Media - the family entertainment engine for Grom Social Enterprises, Inc., have secured Montana Poet Laureate M.L. Smoker to write and consult for the Thunderous graphic novel series, debuting in April 2022.
Her co-writer on the project is Natalie Peeterse, also a poet and independent publisher. The graphic novel is drawn by Dale Deforest, with a cover by artist Oriol Vidal. The original, new intellectual property (IP) franchise follows the unexpected adventures of an indigenous teen’s journey into a special world where new friends and foes are discovered. In this unpredictable and sometimes perilous venture she learns to more fully appreciate, embrace, and champion her family’s proud heritage. The graphic novel will debut in tandem with Independent Book Store Day, a national celebration of independent bookstores to be held on Saturday, April 30. The announcement was made today by Dynamite CEO & Publisher Nick Barrucci and Curiosity Ink Media’s EVP & Publisher, Jon Rosenberg. Thunderous centers on Aiyana, a South Dakota teenager who fails to see a connection between her family’s Indigenous culture and her life in the modern world, resulting in tension with her grandmother, a proud bearer of the family’s history and heritage. As the story progresses, Aiyana finds herself accidentally transported to a new and unfamiliar world where she begins to recognize how understanding her Lakota cultural teachings and stories are the very tools she needs to survive and return home. The book version of Thunderous dovetails into Dynamite’s recently announced publishing program in partnership with Curiosity to develop a slate of printed content rooted in Curiosity’s original IP, as well as cultivating print titles on behalf of other entertainment brands.
Dynamite and Curiosity’s alliance with Smoker, Peeterse, and the rest of the creative team ... |
|
|
|
|
