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Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on January 13, 2015 by Brett

Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week, highlighting a top pick, and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday. I think it’s safe to say we’re excited for a story that takes place in a galaxy far, far away.

Brett

Top Pick – Star Wars #1 (Marvel) – I’m a Star Wars fan, and have loved reading Dark Horse’s various series. I also have some fond memories of reading Marvel’s take back in the 80s (and still have a few issues laying around in my long boxes). What Marvel does with the license should be interesting, especially in comparing to how Dark Horse handled it all.

Avengers #40 (Marvel) – What Jonathan Hickman has been doing with the various Avengers titles has been exciting and an interesting direction for them. We’re ahead in the Marvel timeline seeing how things have progressed as “Time Runs Out.” All of this is leading to Secret Wars, so… there’s that? If anything, the story has been exciting and entertaining with some kick-ass art.

Copperhead #5 (Image) – I love this series, one of my favorites to debut in 2014. The first arc wraps up in a nice tidy bow and it sets up some interesting plot threads for the future. This is a great sci-fi western and if you’re into that sort of thing, absolutely pick up the trade paperback when it’s out next month.

Michael Jordan: Bull on Parade (Fantagraphics) – Wilfred Santiago’s graphic novel about the sports legend. It touches on his successes and struggles and has an interesting take on how an individual can turn into a product.

Stumptown Vol. 3 #5 (Oni Press) – The conclusion to “The Cast of the King of Clubs” has Dex deciding if she’ll seek justice or revenge. Writer Greg Rucka has been on fire and that’s helped by Justin Greenwood’s art.

Edward

Top Pick – Batgirl #38 (DC Comics) – Ever since the new creative team has taken over there has been a positive change in direction for this series which was already decent enough. The series might be a bit lighter in pure superheroics, but it is heavier on themes and character development.

Damsels in Excess #4 (Aspen Comics) – Aspen’s unconventional fairy tale series takes another turn here as the heroines get closer to their final confrontation. This is an interesting take on fairy tales, different from the other titles in a medium which is saturated with them at the moment.

Deep State #3 (BOOM! Studios) – This series which was easy to pick up, also proves to be hard to put down. Even those that don’t like X-Files conspiracies will find some pure comic fun here.

Grimm Fairy Tales Presents Wonderland #31 (Zenescope) – When Calie Liddle won against the powers of Wonderland and took on the role of queen, fans of this series might have wondered if there were still stories to be told. New series writer Erica Heflin proved in the first story arc that she is fit to the task,and the mother vs. daughter clash of the second story arc looks pretty fun.

Suicide Risk #21 (BOOM! Studios) – This series has not stopped since the first issue from presenting its own world full of superheroes but with a weird twist. Now with his wife and alternate universe wife both living under the same roof, how will Requiem react when the fate of the world is in the balance?

Elana

Top Pick – Rat Queens Special: Braga #1 (Shadowline/Image) – If you like female centered stories and ever played D&D this deserves a read. And female characters who aren’t attractive humanoids don’t often get to tell their stories.

Lazarus #14 (Image) – everyone here is the best they are at what they do (including Forever herself). I gotta get caught up!

Silver Surfer #8 (Marvel) – It’s starting to get touching! A story about vulnerability. And Allred’s art is glorious as ever.

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 (Marvel) – This came out last week, but it’s fun. pure fun. I’ve been a fan of Henderson’s art for a few years now and she has a uniquely feminist eye for the world. Her cartoon-y style should’t be underestimated because her pacing and breakdowns are strong. North was great on Adventure Time so bring on the zaniness.

George

Top Pick – Jupiter’s Legacy #5 (Image) – Although the spacing between issues is greater than we would like, this book has one of the best stories from Mark Millar. The amazing art by Frank Quitely make it a must for anyone’s Pull List.

Copperhead #5 (Image) – The conclusion to the first arc of this outstanding and imaginative series by Jay Faeber and Scott Godlewski. It’s a crime procedural on a distant planet that feels like a mix between The Fuse and Saga; what else could you ask for?

Lazarus #14 (Image) – Greg Rucka has created a vast and amazing world for Forever, the protector of the Carlyle Family to roam free. With each new arc we learn more and more of this futuristic world consisting of ruling families and the Lazarus that protect each one.

Star Wars #1 (Marvel) – You can never have too much Star Wars material to soak up. This one, by Jason Aaron and artwork by John Cassaday, takes place between IV: A New Hope and V: The Empire Strikes Back. Bridging the story between the two movies should be a lot of fun for any Star Wars fan.

The Walking Dead #136 (Skybound/Image Comics) – One of the best stories out there, Robert Kirkman has reinvented The Walking Dead Universe with brand new dangers and horrors lurking around every corner. After all these years I still love when a new issue comes out and the new arc is going to be just as great as any in the past.

Matt

Top Pick – Teen Dog #5 (BOOM! Box/BOOM! Studios)- Teen Dog has faithfully served up all kinds of superb cool in the first four issues, so this latest issue should be more of that. This round, Teen Dog is gonna have to confront his alter ego, who is probably totally not cool at all. Scoff.

Batgirl #38 (DC Comics) – The DC book with the most diversity in characters made headlines last month in a way that really doesn’t behoove what the creative team is going for with this series, but I’m sure it can make a comeback. My roommate thought I was reading a Marvel book when he looked over my shoulder to see the first issue of this new run, and that’s a good thing when it comes to the kind of demographics a book like this is appealing to.

Daredevil #12 (Marvel) – Waid and Samnee are doing something more mainstream superhero books need to be doing, which is telling short, small-scale stories. The solicit for this issue promises a conclusion to the great story started last issue, along with some teases for potential seeds leading to bigger stories; those are good too!

S.H.I.E.L.D. #2 (Marvel) – Giving Mark Waid the reins on a Marvel Universe-spanning crossover book that loosely ties into the Agents of Shield television show is a lovely idea. This issue’s pairing of Waid with Humberto Ramos to do a Ms. Marvel-centric story is all-kinds of awesome, too.

Silver Surfer #8 (Marvel) – This book is always a treat, with Slott’s fun sense of adventure and Allred’s incredible, whimsical art. Promised in this issue is a planet filled with billions of varied species, so the sky’s the limit!

Sean

Top Pick – Daredevil #12 (Marvel) – Waid and Samnee’s Daredevil is one of the best comics on the market, even before it was unnecessarily rebooted, and continues to inspire awe with beautiful art that I wish I could plaster my walls with, and an emotionally complex script that is atypical of most mainstream productions. Daredevil’s new conflict with the Stunt-Master continues, Matt lies in his autobiography, and more!

Animal Man Vol. 7: Red Plague TP (DC Comics) – Animal Man of the 1980s and 1990s by Vertigo was fantastic, featuring the much acclaimed run by Grant Morrison (among many others). A new TP collects issues #64-79, Annual 1.

Justice League United #8 (DC Comics) – I’ve kept away from most JL books since the Trinity event, mostly because JL itself is a bit overblown while JLD, despite an awesome cast has suffered from sub-par storytelling. Other JL incarnations in the New 52 aren’t even worth mentioning. JLU, however, is an exciting romp through space, bringing in some of my favorite science fiction heroes with a new, truly compelling First Nations superheroine, Miiyahbin. In this issue, JLU and the Legion of Super-Heroes go toe-to-toe.

The New 52: Future’s End #37 (DC Comics) – Despite my general disgust with the ploy that, if you want to keep up with the DC Universe, you have to buy weeklies (well, you really don’t…), I have actually rather enjoyed Future’s End, or, rather, some of its subplots. I have a feeling that the conclusion of the series will be a great let down, especially since the future shown here will probably not be carried out in other books. Like, I would buy up an Amethyst and Frankenstein team-up comics. Alas…

Star Trek #40 (IDW Publishing) – A well-written exploration of the AU created by Abrams’ films, this issue concludes the “Q Gambit” in which Q has transported Kirk and crew to the future, challenging him to confront the reality that a “no win” scenario really is unwinnable. Plus, Q himself might cease to exist!

Star Wars #1 (Marvel) – The Star Wars franchise returns to Marvel. I can’t say that I’m particularly thrilled about it, but since it can’t be changed I might as well see what Marvel’s about. Objectively, this issue ushers in an unprecedented era in the history of Star Wars, when for the first time the difference between the Expanded Universe and the films are erased and a single continuity is established.

Comixstravaganza Live’s “Big Daddy Cool” Johnny Dellarocca’s

Top Pick – Star Wars #1 (Marvel) – Everyone is head over heels about this release, and the most obvious reason to be is being overlooked by many: for the first time EVER, the comic stories will be canon! Remember earlier this year when Kathleen Kennedy at Lucasfilm said that the EU and all previous comics would be labeled as “Legacy” and everything moving forward would be canon? Well, here ya go! You’re welcome.

Star Wars Legends Marvel Years Omnibus HC (Marvel) – Speaking of “Legends”, this week also see the release of the Omnibus HC, Star Wars: The Marvel Years. This collects all the Marvel comics series starting with the 1977 movie adaptation (which saved the comics industry by the way) and runs through the Empire Strikes Back adaptation. That is one hefty tome, but won’t it look awesome on my bookshelf?

Men of Mystery #95 (AC Comics) – Fans of Dynamite’s Project: Superpowers can read the original tales of seventeen Golden Age heroes! It’s classic pulp superhero adventures at their best! Artists include Joe Kubert, Reed Crandall, and Bob Powell. The market on this one is smallish, so this might be a tough one to find!

Sherlock Holmes vs. Harry Houdini #3 (Dynamite Entertainment) – as a professional magician I am naturally interested in Harry Houdini. However, I have a confession to make. I have an entire library of Houdini books and biographies, and went to far to name my office and studio complex “The Houdini Room!” This series has been interesting because of the real life animosity between Houdini and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. They started as friends but became rivals over the issue of spiritualism. Some have even implicated Doyle in Houdini’s murder (look it up). The time line here is a little skewed, probably to appeal to the Steampunk fandom, but it is a fun read nonetheless.

Wild’s End #5 (BOOM! Studios) – I really can’t believe more people aren’t buzzing about this title. War of the Worlds set in depression era 1930s starring anamorphic animals as the heroes! How could you not love this? Further, this book is the very definition of Dieselpunk! That’s right, I said DIESELpunk. It is the retro futuristic sci-fi and fantasy of the deco/jazz age! If you aren’t familir with Dieselpunk you can learn more by tuning into my Diesel Powered Podcast on iTunes!

Review: Deep State #3

Posted on January 13, 2015 by

I was never really so much into the X-Files. The concept behind it was interesting enough to me, as I was a big fan of Unsolved Mysteries as a child, especially the portions dealing with the unexplained, but when it came to X-Files, there was just something about it that didn’t appeal to me. I have maybe seen two or three episodes at most in my life, and so when the new series Deep State from BOOM! Studios promised itself to be a new take on the conspiracies genre with a format very similar to X-Files, it did not immediately appeal to me. I had a look at the first issue because I was nonetheless interested in it, and read the second as well after the curiosity was still enough from the first issue to bring me back for more, but now by the third issue, I can say that I am now hooked on this series.

The story so far has followed the same concept as introduced in the first issue, that of moon landings being partially staged, especially after what was found there. Finally this malevolent force has found its way back to Earth and has taken over a small town. The two heroes of the story are forced to deal with this on their own as running is no longer an option and as reinforcements are still faraway. In so doing they are trapped in a town with all of the residents acting together, in a setup similar to Invasion of the Body Snatchers or the Midwich Cuckoos. So far in this series the development of the two main characters has been a bit slow and deliberate, which has worked, but as the action all of a sudden goes to full blast, so too do the characters come out of their shells and show themselves as capable of holding this series together if they continue to be written in the same way.

Thus far, everything in this series has been a subtle twist on all of the other conspiracy sci-fi stories that have come before, though enough of a twist to make the entire endeavor seem to be original. The same holds true here as the characters find themselves facing something which has not been seen before, at least not is such a way, and the characters are original enough in their own way to be a draw as well. With already rumors of a television deal in the works and with the consistent quality, this is a series that fans might want to get into now, so that they can claim that they were reading it before it went mainstream.

Story: Justin Jordan Art: Ariela Kristantina
Story: 8.8 Art: 8.8 Overall: 8.8 Recommendation: Buy

BOOM! Studios provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Sell-Outs and New Printing Roundup

Posted on December 28, 2014 by Brett

Here’s some of the latest announced sell-outs and new printings!

BOOM! Studios

BOOM! has announced that writer Justin Jordan and artist Ariela Kristantina‘s series Deep State is going back for further printings. Issue #1 will receive a third printing while issue #2 gets its second. It has been recently announced that the publisher has sold the rights for the series as a television drama as part of its first-look deal with 20th Century Fox TV, in a collaboration with producer Howard Gordon’s Teakwood Lane.

Deep State #1 third print ships with a new cover by Eric Scott Pfeiffer and Deep State #2 second print ships with a modified cover by series cover artist Matt Taylor.

Devil’s Due Entertainment

Solitary is creator CW Cooke’s superhero prison drama and Devil’s Due has announced the first issue has sold out. The second printing is being solicited though a release date was not mentioned in the release.

Squarriors, a four issue mini-series by Ash Maczko and Ashley Witter about warring animals struggling in a post apocalyptic world. Its debut issue has sold out and a second printing has been announced.

Titan Comics

Titan Comics has announced that it is going to a second print of Michael Moorcock’s Elric Vol. 1: The Ruby Throne due to exceptionally high demand. Michael Moorcock’s Elric Vol. 1: The Ruby Throne is the first in a series of graphic adaptations of legendary fantasy author Michael Moorcock’s signature creation Elric. Written by Julien Blondel and beautifully illustrated by Robin Recht, Didier Poli & Jean Bastide the second printing will hit comic stores on March 4, 2015, the same day as the second volume.

BOOM! Studios in March 2015

Posted on December 24, 2014 by Brett

BILL & TED’S MOST TRIUMPHANT RETURN #1 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Brian Lynch, Ryan North
Artists: Jerry Gaylord, Ian McGinty
Cover Artists: A: Felipe Smith B: Trevor Hairsine (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) C: Goñi Montes (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: Similar to our Big Trouble in Little China comics, we’re returning readers to one of our favorite—and most excellent—cult-classic properties with a new Bill & Ted adventure of epic proportions. And because we’re fans first, we’re making sure it’s something WE would read. Wyld Stallyns forever!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: If you’re a fan of the films, our comics will pick up where they left off. Main creative team Brian Lynch (Angel: After the Fall) and Jerry Gaylord (Fanboys vs. Zombies) bring you all the silly humor and likable characters mixed with some cool historical science fiction you love! Plus, each story will have a back-up adventure. This issue features a tale of tech terror by Ryan North (Adventure Time) and Ian McGinty (Bravest Warriors)!

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Following the time-traveling historic epic of Excellent Adventure and the turbulent life and death of Bogus Journey, Bill and Ted must now fulfill their destiny as the inspiration for galactic harmony. How can someone hate the Wyld Stallyns as much as the evil Chuck De Nomolos? With the power of time travel, Bill and Ted set their sights on turning a young 27th-century Nomolos’ non-non-heinous attitude into something most outstanding and metal!

THE CON JOB #1 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Jimmy Palmiotti & Matt Brady
Artist: Dominike “Domo” Stanton
Cover Artists: A. Amanda Conner (99%) B. Jay Shaw (1%, Jackpot Variant) C. Trevor Hairsine (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) D. Dan McDaid (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: Comics veteran Jimmy Palmiotti (Harley Quinn) is a master at crafting humorous, snarky comics, and for The Con Job he’s teamed up with longtime comics journalist-turned-writer Matt Brady (Buck Rogers) and artist Dominike “Domo” Stanton (Deadpool) for a unique heist story. They’ve put the “con” back in comic conventions.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: In the mood for a character-driven, comic book convention crime caper? Palmiotti and Brady have crafted a Galaxy Quest meets Ocean’s 11-style crime story set in the larger-than-life backdrop of the modern convention circuit. You thought cons couldn’t get any bigger? You have no idea.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: After working the same convention circuit for many years, a group of flabby action heroes, aging sex symbols, and sci-fi bit players have become close friends as they watch their lines get shorter and their autographs get cheaper. That is, until they hire a cocky new booking agent who offers them their only chance at a comfortable retirement by robbing one of the largest cons in the country!

HIT: 1957 #1 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Bryce Carlson
Artist: Vanesa R. Del Rey
Cover Artists: A. Vanesa R. Del Rey B. Trevor Hairsine (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) C. Dustin Nguyen INCV

WHY WE LOVE IT: Hit: 1955 was one of our favorite original series of 2013, a dark, violent dive into the depths of 1950s corruption in Los Angeles featuring the writing of Bryce Carlson and the debut of Russ Manning Award for Most Promising Newcomer nominee Vanesa R. Del Rey. We couldn’t wait to take another Hit!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: The next entry in the Harvey Award-nominated series, Hit: 1957, takes us later in the seminal decade of change for the LAPD—familiar faces, new threats, and more sharp, smart noir. Even if you missed out on the first series, if you’re a fan of crime comics like Parker, Criminal, and Tumor, Hit is in your wheelhouse.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Crime is down in Los Angeles—at least, on the surface. Mickey Cohen has been quiet since his release from prison and the LAPD has seemingly regained control of the city. But the underground is a different story. Det. Harvey Slater and company have spent the last two years focused on Domino and his Syndicate’s unrelenting infiltration, but no matter how many people the hit squad kills, the real fight for Los Angeles rages on. Meanwhile, Slater’s being hounded by Internal Affairs, Bonnie Brae is missing, and everything is falling apart at the seams.

REGULAR SHOW 2015 MARCH MADNESS SPECIAL (One-shot)

Retail Price: $4.99
Authors: Shanna Matuszak, Phil Jacobson, Molly Ostertag, and Hannah Ayoubi
Artists: Derek Charm, Phil Jacobson, Molly Ostertag, and Hannah Ayoubi
Cover Artists: A. Rian Sygh B. Fellipe Martins (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: We’re huge fans of the antics of Regular Show’s Mordecai, Rigby, and the gang, and Spring felt like the perfect backdrop for our next collection of park mayhem. Plus, this gives us another opportunity to work with an amazing team of creators, from super-talented newcomers to established stars!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Mordecai and Rigby will be getting into all sorts of shenanigans this Spring, and we’re bringing you all sorts of wacky adventures in a range of styles to showcase the madness—March madness, that is.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Spring is in the air, the Earth is reawakened after winter, and hijinks abound at the park! This oversized collection of all-new shorts features the park deep in March Madness, with all sorts of seasonal hijinks afoot. From college basketball to St. Patrick’s Day, there’s nothing sacred for this motley crew.

GIANT DAYS #1 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: John Allison
Artist: Lissa Treiman
Cover Artists: A: Lissa Treiman B: Shelli Paroline & Braden Lamb (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) C: Zac Gorman (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: John Allison is well known for his funny and intelligent webcomics Bad Machinery and Scary Go Round. His story of three friends at university lightly flavored with the occult features some of the best dialogue in comics, and we couldn’t help but think it’s like Monty Python goes to college. Sign us up!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: John Allison’s daily webcomics are hilarious, the kind of strips where every panel makes you laugh out loud. As a result, John has earned a large, loyal following of readers that have followed his work daily for the past 12 years. This is a series fans of things like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Fawlty Towers, or Gunnerkrigg Court will not want to miss.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Susan, Esther, and Daisy started at university three weeks ago and became fast friends because their dorm rooms were next to each other. Now, away from home for the first time, all three want to reinvent themselves. But in the face of hand-wringing boys, “personal experimentation,” influenza, mystery-mold, nu-chauvinism, and the willful, unwanted intrusion of “academia,” they may be lucky just to make it to spring alive.

MOUSE GUARD: LEGENDS OF THE GUARD VOL. 3 #1 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: David Petersen, Skottie Young, Mark Buckingham, and Hannah Christenson
Artists: David Petersen, Skottie Young, Mark Buckingham, and Hannah Christenson
Cover Artists: A: David Petersen B: Ramón K. Pérez (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) C: Humberto Ramos (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: 2015 marks the 10-year anniversary of David Petersen’s Eisner and Harvey Award-winning Mouse Guard, and what better way to celebrate than with a new collection of short stories centered around a storytelling contest at the local bar, featuring work by some of the best writers and artists in comics paying homage to this beloved all-ages series.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: It’s Mouse Guard as interpreted by some of the most celebrated storytellers in all of comics, including Skottie Young (Rocket Raccoon), Ramón K. Pérez (The Amazing Spider-Man), Mark Buckingham (Fables), Becky Cloonan (Gotham Academy), Dustin Nguyen (Batman), and many more!

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Following two award-nominated volumes, once again, mice of all furs and trades have gathered at the June Alley Inn to swap tales of courage, adventure, and craftsmanship. The storytellers can’t help but try to outdo one another, as the mouse who tells the best tale gets their bar tab cleared. This kick-off issue features stories by Skottie Young, Mark Buckingham, and Hannah Christenson (Jim Henson’s The Storyteller: The Novelization).

HALOGEN #1 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Josh Tierney
Artist: Afu Chan
Cover Artists: A: Afu Chan B: Ramón K. Pérez (10 Years Cover) (Incentive) C: Giannis Milonogiannis (Incentive)

WHY WE LOVE IT: We’ve published four books thus far in Josh Tierney’s Spera series because we simply love his characters and storytelling. Now, he teams up with fellow webcomic creators Afu Chan (Spera) and Giannis Milonogiannis (Old City Blues, Prophet) for a new creator-owned, sci-fi adventure.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Having first collaborated on the Eisner Award-nominated Spera series, the creative team behind HaloGen is no stranger to kick-butt ladies, epic world-building, and sweeping adventures. This time they’re strapping on their sci-fi boots for a series perfect for fans of Prophet, Rocket Girl, and The Fifth Element.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: There’s a rumor on Cityship Q that the gigantic body of a dead god was found floating in space. Rell, an agent woking for the HaloGen organization, is tasked with finding the location of the god and retrieving it by any means necessary. Using her ability to form hyper-realistic holograms, Rell is about to take on the first mission she might not be able to finish.

CLUSTER #2

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Ed Brisson
Artist: Damian Couceiro
Cover Artists: A: Damian Couceiro B: Declan Shalvey (Incentive)

Samara and the other prisoners who managed to survive the Pagurani attack on the T-Towers are stranded on the battlefield, but they’ll need to find a way to trust one another before they can hope to find a transport to safety. They just better hope it happens before their Punch clocks hit zero…

CURB STOMP #2 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Ryan Ferrier
Artist: Devaki Neogi
Cover Artist: Devaki Neogi

Lines have been crossed and The Wrath has kidnapped one of The Fever. Now that Betty has given King Charles the perfect excuse to start a turf war, any old rules and truces have been called off. Machete Betty will have to make a decision—the safety of her town or the life of one of her own?

BURNING FIELDS #3 (of 8)

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Michael Moreci & Tim Daniel
Artist: Colin Lorimer
Cover Artists: A: Colin Lorimer B: Riley Rossmo (Incentive)

Just as Dana learns a secret about Aban that upends the murder investigation, the tensions between the Iraqi populace and the Verge PMC reach a fever pitch, giving the killer a perfect opportunity to strike.

ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK #4

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Christopher Sebela
Artist: Diego Baretto
Cover Artists: A: Declan Shalvey 90% B: Riley Rossmo 10% C: John McCrea (Incentive)

As the USPF army comes down on the seceded nation of Florida, Snake is forced to take up arms for the twins. Little does he know that all is going according to plan. With an invasion in full swing, the end game is put into action. Time to ready the nukes.

ETERNAL #4 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: William Harms
Artist: Giovanni Valletta
Cover Artist: Frazer Irving

New Life gave the world eternal life, but now their hold on society is breaking down and chaos will reign. Amidst the turmoil, former New Life agent Rathmann and his ward Violet try to find peace, but what sacrifice will Rathmann have to make for Violet’s future?

GEORGE PÉREZ’S SIRENS #4 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: George Pérez
Artist: George Pérez
Cover Artists: A: George Pérez B: George Pérez (Character Spotlight) (Incentive) C: George

Pérez (Pencils Connecting) (Incentive) D: George Pérez (Pencils Connecting) (Incentive)
As the Sirens finally come face-to-face with the forces that imprisoned and scattered them across time, another complication arises: a zombie invasion of Earth!

DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES #5 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Michael Moreci
Artist: Dan McDaid
Cover Artists: A: Christopher Mitten B: “Salvation” Graffiti Design (Incentive)

As Caesar learns the value of sacrificing a few for the many, Koba will be forced to confront Pope and his militia of apes. On the other side of the world, with his son kidnapped and wife fading with every hour, Malcolm has one chance to make things right before it all comes crashing down around him.

FICTION SQUAD #6 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Paul Jenkins
Artist: Ramon Bachs
Cover Artist: Ramon Bachs

As the fabric of reality tears apart, Frankie and Simon must confront the man responsible as his master plan for dominance threatens storytelling itself. Unfortunately, with an army of characters from every which genre at his disposal and unlimited power at his fingertips, this bad guy isn’t going down without a fight.

DAY MEN #7

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Matt Gagnon & Michael Alan Nelson
Artist: Brian Stelfreeze
Cover Artist: Brian Stelfreeze

Justice by Day has finally arrived as David Reid faces off against Jacob the Burner in a ritualistic battle to the death with the fate of Azalea and the entire Virgo family hanging in the balance. The end is drawing near—will David’s cane join the ranks of fallen Day Men gracing the walls of Virgo Mansion?

HEXED #8

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Michael Alan Nelson
Artist: Dan Mora
Cover Artist: Dan Mora

Madame Cymbaline’s actions were designed to force Lucifer to act, but what Lucifer does in response will shock both friend and ally alike as she pushes her powers to their absolute limit in an all-out assault on Graeae Towers.

ROBOCOP #9

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Joshua Williamson & Dennis Culver
Artist: Alejandro Aragón
Cover Artist: Carlos Magno

Killian is a murderous criminal in the eyes of the law but he has gained status among the people of Detroit as their brave new savior. Now they set their sights on RoboCop! Featuring the debut of co-writer Dennis Culver (Edison Rex) and new artist Alejandro Aragón of 28 Days Later!

DEAD LETTERS #9

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Christopher Sebela
Artist: Chris Visions
Cover Artist: Chris Visions

After expanding the gang war through the boroughs and into every area of Here, Sam Whistler is faced with a choice: Does he attempt to unite the various factions under the banner to claim Here’s independence, or does he search for God, and with that, perhaps a way back home?

BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA #10

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Eric Powell
Artist: Brian Churilla
Cover Artists: A: Brian Churilla B: Tradd Moore (Incentive)

While Egg and Wong battle for Jack’s soul in the streets of Chinatown, Jack must find a way to make secure his own escape and back-stab Lo Pan in the process. When you get stuck in the Hell of No Return and your worst enemy is the only help you got, then you know your name is Jack Burton.

THE WOODS #11

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: James Tynion IV
Artist: Michael Dialynas
Cover Artist: Michael Dialynas

Sanami and the Hunters finally reach the school and see the complete state of chaos that has been spawning since their arrival to the planet. Back at New London, Adrian has finally made his arrival. With the army gone, nothing stands in the way of him and the black stone…

CLIVE BARKER’S NIGHTBREED #11

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Marc Andreyko
Artists: Emmanuel Xerx Javier, Devmalya Pramanik
Cover Artist: Christopher Mitten

Rebuilding Midian has been no easy feat for Cabal and his people. But as the world of Nightbreed grows, the world will have to either embrace the dark or snuff the very existence of the Breed once and for all.

EVIL EMPIRE #12

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Max Bemis
Artist: Victor Santos
Cover Artist: Jay Shaw

After years of cold war, Reese and Sam finally meet, and Julia is less than pleased. Meanwhile, Kara plays out her balancing act of wrangling information from the EE as a spy for the resistance. But how long can she keep up the act before someone catches onto her facade?

SONS OF ANARCHY #19

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Ryan Ferrier
Artist: Matías Bergara
Cover Artist: Toni Infante

New story arc! When Bobby’s estranged nephew rolls into Charming, he seems like a promising Prospect. However, when it comes to the Sons of Anarchy, one mistake is all it takes to fall from grace…and into violence. Featuring the debut of new writer Ryan Ferrier (Curb Stomp)!

SUICIDE RISK #23

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Mike Carey
Artist: Elena Casagrande
Cover Artist: Stephanie Hans

With two Earths pitted in direct conflict, Requiem and his daughter Terza must find a way to bury their bloodlust long enough to save the people they’ve come to care for the most: their family.

ADVENTURE TIME: MARCELINE GONE ADRIFT #3 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Meredith Gran
Artist: Carey Pietsch
Cover Artists: A: Reimena Yee B: Sarah Dill (Subscription Cover) C: Jensine Eckwell (Incentive)

Princess Bubblegum might have finally found a way to get Marceline, but that doesn’t mean things are going to get any easier for her. Marceline might be stuck with her new friends on this strange planet, but that doesn’t mean she’s got to like them…or be nice to them and what is up with this place anyway?!

ABIGAIL AND THE SNOWMAN #4 (of 4)

Retail Price: $4.99
Author: Roger Langridge
Artist: Roger Langridge
Cover Artist: Roger Langridge

Abigail and Claude’s adventure comes to an end in this oversized finale! The world’s most lovable Yeti is one boat ride away from making it back home to the Himalayas, but before they can say their goodbyes, Abigail and Claude will have to find a way to outsmart everything the Shadow Men throw their way.

UNCLE GRANDPA #6

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Yehudi Mercado, Nichol Ashworth, Phil Murphy, Bradwick McGinty, and Various
Artists: Yehudi Mercado, Nichol Ashworth, Phil Murphy, Bradwick McGinty, and Various
Cover Artists: A. Robb Mommaerts B. Kaz (Subscription Cover)

If you are a fan of nonchalant dinosaurs, pizzas donning sunglasses, or mustachioed gentlemen of the world, this is the book you’ve been waiting for. Jump into a pool of crazy wild stories that will literally make your head spin. Don’t worry, Uncle Grandpa has a cure for that.

STEVEN UNIVERSE #8

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Jeremy Sorese
Artist: Coleman Engle
Cover Artists: A. Amber Rogers 90% B. Bridget Underwood 10% C. Helen Yoon (Incentive)

Something crashes off the shore of Beach City and it’s up to Connie to solve the mystery. Determined to prove to Steven that it is probably nothing, she sets out to bring it back to shore with a little help from an unsuspected source. It’s time to believe in Connie!

THE AMAZING WORLD OF GUMBALL #10

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Frank Gibson
Artist: Missy Pena
Cover Artists: A. Jenna Ayoub B. Katy Farina (Subscription Cover)

Gumball thinks he’s the coolest kid on the block, but his little sister Anais begs to differ, and Darwin just wants to keep them all out of trouble. There’s always another adventure to be had in their mixed-up world!

BEE AND PUPPYCAT #10

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Patrick Seery, Carey Pietsch, Joy Ang
Artist: Meredith McClaren, Carey Pietsch, Joy Ang
Cover Artists: A. George Caltsoudas B. Becky Dreistadt (Subscription Cover)

The best part of the morning is the chance to sleep in and ignore the outside world for a few more sweet, sweet hours…unless a PuppyCat forces you out of bed at an unspoken hour to get a temp job. Bee is not having the best day, and things are only going to go sideways for her in these short stories!

REGULAR SHOW #21

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Mad Rupert
Artist: Allison Strejlau
Cover Artists: A: Andy Hirsch B: Ilias Kyriazis (Subscription Cover)

The beginning of a new arc by new writer Mad Rupert (Regular Show: Skips) and the perfect jumping-on point for new readers! During a marathon of his favorite childhood movies, Rigby begins to remember a movie so awesome, so incredible, so amazingly rad…that it makes no sense that he can’t recall its name! As he journeys into the online nostalgia rabbit hole in search of the truth, one question arises: are some movies meant to be forgotten?

PEANUTS #26

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Charles M. Schulz, Various
Artists: Charles M. Schulz, Various
Cover Artist: Charles M. Schulz

Get your dance shoes on because Pig-Pen is bringing the moves! “Dirty Dancing” and tons more fun, including classic Charles M. Schulz Sunday strips are bursting from the pages of this new issue of Peanuts.

BRAVEST WARRIORS #30

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Kate Leth
Artist: Ian McGinty
Cover Artists: A: Ian McGinty B: Rachel Wolfe (Subscription Cover)

It’s the start of an all-new arc as the Bravest Warriors are off to summer camp! The gang has been going to Camp Tribulon for Little Warriors since they were kids, but when they return as counselors, they realize that battling monsters might be nothing compared to supervising a camp of rowdy children.

GARFIELD #35: HIS 9 LIVES, PART 3 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Scott Nickel
Artists: Brittney Williams, Andy Hirsch
Cover Artists: A: Andy Hirsch B: Andy Hirsch (Incentive)

The trip through Garfield’s 9 Lives continues, as Brittney Williams illustrates a tale of Garfield’s adventures as a Golden-Age Superhero in “Super Cat,” while Andy Hirsch brings us the story of Garfield’s days as a Private Eye in “Sam Spayed.”

ADVENTURE TIME #38

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Chris Hastings
Artist: Zachary Sterling
Cover Artists: A: Shanti Rittgers B: Mahendra Singh (Subscription Cover) C: Ze Burney (Incentive)

Everyone is hungry, but there isn’t enough food to go around. Things get a little dicey as Finn and Jake try to figure out what is up with their friends, and why does this little witch keep coming back? Glob, she’s really persistent.

HELP US! GREAT WARRIOR #2 (of 8)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Madéleine Flores
Artist: Madéleine Flores
Cover Artist: Victoria Elliot

The tiny and powerful Great Warrior has begun her quest to kick the ever-living butt out of the enemies of a defenseless little village, and no one saves villagers with style and RADNESS the way Great Warrior does!

MUNCHKIN #3

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Tom Siddel, Jim Zub
Artist: Mike Holmes, Rian Sygh
Cover Artists: A: Ian McGinty B: Chris Schweizer

Based on the popular game of the same name, the Munchkin comic gives you a whole new way to enjoy the world with Spyke and Flower. In this issue, check out what it’s like to be a monster whose door just got kicked in by some Munchkins! Plus, an exclusive game card is included with every copy of the first printing!

TEEN DOG #7 (of 8)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Jake Lawrence
Artist: Jake Lawrence
Cover Artist: Jake Lawrence

Dudes, prom is coming up. Who do you think Teen Dog is gonna take? And who’s going to be crowned as the ultimate high school couple this year? Meh, who cares—let’s get out on the dance floor and cut a rug.

LUMBERJANES #12

Retail Price: $3.99
Authors: Noelle Stevenson & Shannon Watters
Artist: Carolyn Nowak
Cover Artists: A. Carolyn Nowak B. Brittney Williams (Incentive)

Mal and Molly just want to get back to their friends, but things are looking more dire by the minute. It’s going to be a crazy dash through this weird mixed-up world as they try to not only find a working portal, but one that will take them back to camp!

PLUNDER #2 (of 4)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Swifty Lang
Artist: Skuds McKinley
Cover Artist: Skuds McKinley

As the band of pirates begins to discover just how horrific the situation is on their new ship, one of the few survivors from the vessel emerges with a possible way out, but it may already be too late…

FEATHERS #3 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Jorge Corona
Artist: Jorge Corona
Cover Artist: Jorge Corona

Betrayal comes from all sides as Poe’s new friendship with Bianca creates chaos in the Maze, and the pair discover they may have even fewer allies than they thought in their race to the heart of the City.

ROCKET SALVAGE #4 (of 6)

Retail Price: $3.99
Author: Yehudi Mercado
Artist: Bachan
Cover Artist: Bachan

The Rocket family is split! With Zeta training under a mad scientist, Beta working under a local crime lord, and Primo stuck in a Republic of Galaxies prison, it’s going to take more than a big wrench and an apology to get this family back together!

EVIL EMPIRE VOL. 1 TP

Retail Price: $14.99
Author: Max Bemis
Artists: Ransom Getty, Andrea Mutti
Cover Artist: Jay Shaw

WHY WE LOVE IT: After Polarity, we were itching to work with writer (and Say Anything lead singer) Max Bemis again, and his thrilling take on how a modern society could evolve into an evil empire is absolutely terrifying.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Every fan of fiction is aware of the trope of the “evil, sinister empire” i.e. the Empire in Star Wars. Oftentimes, when we are introduced to these totalitarian establishments, they’re already fully in power and it’s up to our hero to bring back order and peace. However, in Evil Empire, we explore how that would unfold in a real-world setting. How close to the precipice are we right now in the world we live in? Would we let it happen? Would we secretly WANT it to happen?

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: The sands are shifting in America’s public consciousness. One action has torn the country apart in a debate over the meaning of right and wrong, and Reese Greenwood is not about to stand by as the American people support the rantings of a mad man. Told through the perspective of an underground rapper with a political bone to pick, Max Bemis’ gripping story explores a scenario in which we watch modern society gradually evolve into an evil empire. Collects issues #1-4.

DEEP STATE VOL. 1 TP

Retail Price: $9.99
Author: Justin Jordan
Artist: Ariela Kristantina
Cover Artist: Matt Taylor

WHY WE LOVE IT: You know all those conspiracy theories you hear about? Like how the Jonestown Massacre was a failed MKULTRA experiment by the government, or how Lee Harvey Oswald was trained and brainwashed to be an assassin? Well, what if some of those were true? Deep State is a dream (nightmare?) come true for conspiracy theory nuts like us here at BOOM!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: With Luther Strode, Dead Body Road, and Spread, Justin Jordan has become one of the eminent voices in hard-hitting, intelligent, original comics, and Ariela Kristantina (Death of Wolverine) brings her unique, idiosyncratic style that has made her a breakout talent. If you’re even remotely interested in conspiracy theory stories from comics like Detective Comics and X-Files to films like Enemy of the State and Three Days of the Condor, you’ll be gripped by Deep State!

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: John Harrow doesn’t exist, and his job is to make sure that other things don’t exist, too. At any given time, the government is running dozens of black book operations, experiments that aren’t on any official record and are never acknowledged to exist. Most of the time, they go as expected and the public is never the wiser. John Harrow’s job is to handle them when they don’t, and do anything to make sure the government’s secrets stay just that—secret. Collects issues #1-4.

ADVENTURE TIME VOL. 6 TP

Retail Price: $14.99
Author: Ryan North
Artists: Jim Rugg, Dustin Nguyen, Jeffrey Brown, Jess Fink, Shelli Paroline & Braden Lamb
Cover Artist: Luke Pearson

The Candy Kingdom is a ghost town! Finn and Jake finally get to have the ultimate out-of-body experience—LITERALLY. It’s a new day in Ooo when its greatest heroes find themselves wandering the Earth as bewildered ghosts! Don’t miss these brand-new adventures written by acclaimed cartoonist Ryan North (Dinosaur Comics) and illustrated by indie superstar Jim Rugg (Wayward)! Also featuring the all-star comic talent of Dustin Nguyen (Batman: Li’l Gotham), Jeffrey Brown (Darth Vader and Son), Jess Fink (Kid With Experience), with Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb (Adventure Time, The Midas Flesh) as they take on the story of Carl the Gem, and the history of Ooo through his eyes. Collects issues #25-29.

REGULAR SHOW VOL. 3 TP

Retail Price: $14.99
Author: KC Green
Artists: Allison Strejlau
Cover Artist: Andy Hirsch

It’s not junk! When Benson tries to organize a yard sale, Rigby has trouble letting go of his stuff. But when he becomes possessed by an old forgotten set of Pogs, it’s his stuff that won’t let go of him! Will Mordecai and the crew be able to defeat the vengeful spirit of the ‘90s? It’s nostalgia at its most epic. Collects issues #9-12.

THE MARCH OF THE CRABS VOL. 1: THE CRABBY CONDITION HC

Retail Price: $19.99
Author: Arthur De Pins
Artist: Arthur De Pins
Cover Artist: Arthur de Pins

WHY WE LOVE IT: At Archaia, we love bringing great comics from all over the world to English-speaking audiences, stories they would never get to see otherwise (see The Killer, Okko, Toppi’s The Collector, and others). When we read French title The March of the Crabs by animator Arthur De Pins, we knew right away we had to add it to our list!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Arthur De Pins’ art style is a slick, fun tribute to Art Deco, something rarely seen in comics. The story of a hapless species of crab is an endearing look at one of nature’s cruel jokes, but made light by a humorous presentation with likable characters, reminiscent of films like Ice Age and Finding Nemo.

WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT: For centuries, the square crab has only been able to move side-to-side in one direction. But some brave crabs decide it’s time for revolution! A few of the brave crustaceans in an estuary on the French coastline decide it’s time to try and actually turn for once, but what does their evolution revolution mean for the human race?

Around the Tubes

Posted on December 11, 2014 by Brett

It was new comic day yesterday! What did everyone get?

Around the Tubes

iO9 – 10 Classic Dr. Strange Storylines That Would Be Perfect For Cumberbatch – Some good choices.

Robot 6 – ‘Batkid Begins’ documentary to premiere at Slamdance – Cool!

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – Afterlife With Archie #7

Comic Vine – The Amazing Spider-Man #11

Comic Vine – Avengers #39

Comic Vine – AXIS: Carnage #3

Talking Comics – Batgirl #37

Comic Vine – Batgirl #37

Talking Comics – Bitch Planet #1

Comic Vine – Bitch Planet #1

Comic Vine – Deep State #2

Comic Vine – Green Lantern Corps #37

The Elkhart Truth – The Love Bunglers

Comic Vine – Punks the Comic #3

CBR – Savage Dragon #200

Comic Vine – Spider-Verse Team Up #2

Comic Vine – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #41

Comic Vine – Thor #3

Comic Vine – Uncanny X-Men Annual #1

Talking Comics – The Valiant #1

Comic Vine – The Valiant #1

Around the Tubes

Review: Deep State #2

Posted on December 9, 2014 by

The first issue of Deep State established the characters into an X-Files like world, and already by the second it is changing into something a little bit different. The basic format is there, with the two government agents who know more than most about the unexplained, but the nature of the unexplained takes on a different approach here. The first issue introduced the alien inhabiting the body of the Russian cosmonaut, and here that story is expanded on and built up into something a little different and by incorporating a few separate genres into the one story.

By the second issue there are already a couple of trends developing in this series, and it is along the lines of basic techniques in writing. When a story is to succeed, it needs either engaging characters or an engaging concept, though ideally both. In this case already it is evident that without some changes that the two agents will be somewhat static characters in this series, instead of a lot of character development, they will deal with the interesting concepts. Thus while the interweaving of the various genres of sci-fi and horror is well conceived, two dimensional characters are driving it forward.

This makes it occasionally hard to enjoy this otherwise engaging series. If the characters were more peripheral to the story then it might meant that it was easier to focus instead of the sci-fi concepts, but already by this point, some of the victims are more engaging than the two leads. While there is of course room to grow for these two, it also doesn’t seem like they are on the right track. The little bit of engaging dialogue between them is stifled by an overly seriously bureaucratic attitude in the writing which doesn’t help either. There is still enough here for this series to succeed, only that it could easily be in the rare field of having both engaging characters and an amazing concept. For the time being the readers of this series will have to be happy with one and not the other, though the payoff for the one half is still worth it.

Story: Justin Jordan Art: Ariela Kristantina
Story: 7.8 Art: 8.3 Overall: 7.8 Recommendation: Read

BOOM! Studios provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review.

Preview: Deep State #2

Posted on December 9, 2014 by Brett

Deep State #2

Author: Justin Jordan
Artist: Ariela Kristantina

Harrow and Branch’s investigation of the long-lost Soviet lander’s crash site leads them to a small town in rural Pennsylvania. Before the mysterious force is able to take control of the townspeople and enact its full plan, the Agents of Control must isolate the town from the world and eliminate the menace.

Sell-Outs and New Printing Roundup

Posted on November 30, 2014 by Brett

Check out this week’s announced sell-out and new printing.

BOOM! Studios has announced that Deep State #1, the new conspiracy-driven series from Justin Jordan and artist Ariela Kristantina, has sold out at the distributor level. The publisher has rushed to a second printing. The publisher has also sold the rights for the series as a television drama, as part of its first-look deal with 20th Century Fox TV, in a collaboration with producer Howard Gordon’s Teakwood Lane. Comic book fans should bear in mind that first printings of Deep State #1 may still be found at the local comic shop nearest you.

In Deep State, John Harrow doesn’t exist, and his job is to make sure that other things don’t exist, too. At any given time, the government is running dozens of black book operations, experiments that aren’t on any official record and are never acknowledged to exist. Some of these are innocuous. Some of them are monstrous beyond reason. And most of the time, they go as expected and the public is never the wiser. Most of the time. John Harrow’s job is to handle them when things go wrong, and do anything to make sure the government’s secrets stay just that—secret. If you’re interested in conspiracy theory stories from comics like Planetary and Sleeper to films like Enemy of the State and Three Days of the Condor, you’ll be gripped by Deep State!

Deep State #1 second print ships with a modified cover by series cover artist Matt Taylor and carries a retail price of $3.99 with a Diamond Code of OCT148207.

Around the Tubes

Posted on November 18, 2014 by Brett

It’s new comic book day tomorrow! What’s everyone excited to check out?

Around the Tubes

Kotaku – Big Hero 6 Makes for Touching Flipbook Animation – So cool.

ICv2 – ‘Walking Dead’ Tops NFL for 3rd Week in a Row – Awesome!

Around the Tubes Reviews

CBR – Batgirl #36

CBR – Bitch Planet #1

Talking Comics – Deep State #1

CBR – She-Hulk #10

CBR – Thor #2

Around the Tubes

We Talk Deep State with Ariela Kristantina

Posted on November 13, 2014 by

We had the opportunity to have a chat with the talented artist Ariela Kristantina from Boom! Studios about her new project Deep State. Although fairly new on the comic scene (having previously worked on some Marvel titles) she has already developed her own distinctive style. We talked conspiracy theories with her and got to find out what she knows about JFK.

Graphic Policy: This is an all-new series with brand-new characters. What choices did you make when designing them?

Ariela Kristantina: For any all-new series, I try to stick to the writer’s descriptions about the characters,environment and mood. If I have any suggestion, I will share it with the writer, and on this case, with the editors as well. The first time I read the script, I am very leery because I’m afraid I can’t stay away from Mulder and Scully designs. Thankfully, Eric Harburn and Justin were very helpful and gave me the right direction.

I personally want the female character to look and “spark” sassiness to support her dialogues. Moreover, I know John Harrow is the main character but Branch needs to come out, at the very least, almost as strong. For John Harrow, because I usually draw male characters one third of his age, if not younger, it’s kinda new for me. I reckon that he should be a tad “forgettable”, in a good way, because you don’t want an agent whose main job is to cover things up, leaves such a deep impression. However, at the same time, John Harrow needs to be memorable enough to the readers. It’s more complicated than I thought when I first doing some sketches of him.

As the series go on, artists get steadier and more comfortable with the characters. That’s what I feel now after I wrapped up issue #2 and now I am half way through issue #3.

GP: The series has a lot of different elements coming together from different conspiracy theories. Is it hard to switch between normal Earth scenes into scenes with a strong science-fiction influence?

AK: Not really. I am trying to do it as seamlessly as possible and since I ink my own pencils, it’s easier to push, create, or explore new way of inking for specific scenes. Ben Wilsonham, the colorist, helps a lot to fill in the mood.

GP: The design of the aliens in this series fit in perfectly with the story. Did you have to research a lot about aliens, or did you come up with a new design?

AK: Haha, to be honest, I didn’t really do a lot of research because of two reasons. First, Justin has a gift for describing something really well without being too restrictive. I can fill in the “gaps” easily and more often than not, I get what he wants. Second, the other reason is because I enjoy watching most horror and sci-fi alien-infested-related movies. However, I AM trying my best to come up with a new design that FITS the story which is the most important of all.

GP: The artwork has an organic feel to it, and by the end of the first issue, it seemed to be a perfect fit for the story. How involved were you with Justin in the storytelling?

AK: This is actually the funny, or fun, part of the whole deal. This is our first time working together but I feel like the chemistry in this team is very strong. When I first heard from Eric, the editor, that Justin might have a story for me, I almost flipped out because I am a big fan. I did the sample pages BOOM! asked me to do and both Eric and Justin liked how I handled the art.

For each script, after the editors greenlight the initial layout, I will move onto the outlines. Justin will see my outlines –more like the pencils stage. From there, if he or the editors have more revisions and or changes, I will adjust the inks accordingly. Like I mentioned earlier, Justin isn’t very restrictive and he’s very open to my suggestions if I come up with different, sometimes, weird layout. However, I try to stick with the script most of the time mostly because everytime I read Justin’s scripts, I can easily “picture” an episode from a TV series playing in my head. Why change something that is appealing to you to begin with? Unless the storytelling is really impossible to follow which very rarely happens, I want the readers to see how epic the storytelling is that Justin builds.

GP: The series looks like it is going to be focusing a lot on science fiction. Is this a genre that you feel comfortable in? And are there other genres that you would like to have a chance at drawing?

AK: When I first started years ago in my country, I drew in “Japanese comic style” in various genre: romantic comedy, surreal, adventure, and action. Then I shifted to superhero for the last 3 years but I never really want to draw only ONE thing. This is actually the first time I am involved with a sci-fi series. It turns out, I quite enjoy it. The genre is never a bother to me as long as I enjoy the story and the working environment.

Other genres I would like to explore more is maybe slice-of-life with a touch of surrealistic mood to it; something like “The Grand Budapest Hotel” –not really comedic but it’s clearly a fun movie.

GP: What goes through your mind when the writer tells you that you have to draw a sex scene as happens at the end of the first issue?

AK: Hahaha, I honestly didn’t see it as a sex scene –at least, it’s not blatant intercourse. The “note” regarding that page is a pretty clear one: no naked body part should be seen on the page. I second that anytime of the day because none is needed, not for that page at least. Don’t get me wrong, I am comfortable with drawing naked body parts (go see my Instagram feeds) as long as the story needs it to motivate the characters involved to take further actions. If I see a sex scene can be taken out or can be drawn more subtly or elegantly without harming the story, I would mostly ask the writer/editor about the why we need to show breasts and or ass in the first place.

GP: Are there any conspiracy theories that you find particularly intriguing?

AK: Another fun fact is that I am a foreigner –I am not from the United States. Any conspiracy theories I have ever heard or known are theories being mentioned in American TV shows, novels, or Hollywood movies. I watched the JFK movie when I was way too young to understand but now I think The JFK Assassination is one of conspiracy theories I find intriguing. Others are The Knight Templars and, of course, the moon landing haha. Glad Justin cleared the latter for me.

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