Tag Archives: fathom

Aspen Comics Delays Michael Turner’s Fathom and Soulfire: Exiled over COVID-19

Aspen Comics

Aspen Comics has announced that it is delaying the release of its new titles while uncertainty over COVID-19 remains. The publisher is the latest to step up in an attempt to help comic shops. The publisher still has already released material that can be ordered and this decision just impacts upcoming releases. The decision impacts the upcoming Michael Turner’s Fathom and Soulfire: Exiled.

Read the full release below:

In light of the ongoing current events regarding the COVID-19 virus and its effect on the direct market, Aspen Comics will be suspending their spring and summer line-up of new releases including April’s Fathom and May’s Soulfire: Exiled series in an effort to assist retailers weather the current uncertainty of the market. The publisher hopes this move will help retailers as they face difficult ordering decisions across the industry’s offering of titles. Aspen has released the following official statement:
 
“As an independent publisher it is never an easy decision to suspend our production line because it means our creative talent and production staff are directly impacted by the loss of work and revenue. However, like all private and public entities dealing with this unique and unrivaled pandemic crisis, we feel it’s in the best interest of our company to do our part now in assisting to stem the tide in favor of public safety and help our retail partners before it’s too late.”
 
Officially, the publisher will be postponing until further notice Michael Turner’s Fathom and Soulfire: Exiled but will continue to offer archival and existing material through the Diamond Previews catalogue for retailers to order. 
 
Aspen Comics encourages any of their retail partners to reach out to them directly with any questions, comments and suggestions in their mutual effort to combat this unique challenge to our industry. The publisher is ready to help their retail partners in any way possible. Retailers can reach our publisher direct at: frank@aspencomics.com

Mythos Studios Announces the Creative Team Behind Michael Turner’s Fathom and Soulfire Films

Aspen Comics

Mythos Studios has announced the creative teams that will be overseeing three films that are in pre-production, two of which are based on comic creator Michael Turner‘s work.

Fathom and Soulfire are both in production and are being worked on together with a focus on a shared universe including crossover events and sequels. Kevin Adams and Joe Ksander will handle both films.

Kristin Fore will be writing the screenplay for Fathom. The story is about Aspen Mathews who’s a marine biologist and discovers she’s a member of an underwater species. The comic was first published in 1998.

Bo Yeon Kim and Erika Lippoldt will adapt the screenplay for Soulfire. That series debuted in 2003. The story follows Malikai, an orphan who discovers he’s the link to a forgotten age of magic and goes on a quest to restore magic with the help of Grace, a winged goddess.

Mythos Studios was founded by Marvel Studios’ founding chairman David Maisel as well as Scooter Braun, a former manager of such musicians as Justin Bieber, Kanye West, and Ariana Grande. The company in March 2018 invested 50% in the comic publisher Aspen Studios who are the ones behind Fathom and Soulfire.

Preview: Fathom Vol. 8 #2

Fathom Vol. 8 #2

Vince Hernandez – Story / Mauricio Campetella – Art / Peter Steigerwald – Color

The world below is no longer a secret and everything has led to this…

Wind—a new commander of The Blue, emerges to lead her people from the ashes of Anika’s destructive attack on the capitol city of Muria. However, the city receives two new powerful visitors—Aspen and Kiani! Meanwhile, Anika continues her warpath deeper into the depths, as she arrives at the secret realm of the world’s most deadly beings—The Black!

Aspen’s Vince Hernandez (Michael Turner’s Fathom: KianiCharismagic) marks his debut on Fathom’sprincipal series alongside artist Mauricio Campetella (Jirni) and colorists Peter Steigerwald (FathomSuperman/Batman) in a storyline that will define the Fathomuniverse for years to come! 

FATHOM vol 8 #2 is in stores June 12th, 2019!                               $3.99

Fathom Vol. 8 #2

Review: Fathom Vol. 8 #1

Fathom Vol. 8 #1

Fathom is a series I’ve always wanted to enjoy but it never quite clicks for me. Fathom Vol. 8 #1 is a perfect example of that as the issue attempts to be all things to all readers.

Written by Vince Hernandez, the issue is the latest volume in the long running series. Much has taken place and with a new volume you’d hope a clear explanation would be present for new readers. Hernandez attempts that, weaving in a lot of history from the previous seven volumes. The result is an issue that attempts to be new reader friendly but falls short with too many references to the past and not enough explanation.

The issue puts forth the key players of this latest volume and story and does its best to explain it all. But, when you need to have numerous editorial explanations of when things took place, there may be too much reliance on the past. Instead of clear explanations, it feels like the reader is expected to go back and read the references. It leaves one feeling left out when the issue should deliver enough to understand why what’s references is important.

Fathom Vol. 8 #1 does set things up well though. There’s more than enough intrigue and action that by the end of the issue, you may feel compelled to come back and see where things go. It ends with a nice cliffhanger that’s a bit traditional in a way but makes it clear as to what to expect next.

The at by Mauricio Camptella is nice. With colors by Peter Steigerwald, there’s a cool blending of the world of the blue and humans though at times it doesn’t feel like it goes far enough. The team is working off what has come before and for an underwater world, the design feels rather plain and basic, not taking advantage of the underwater beauty enough. There’s both a lack of detail and detail at the same time. What’s present is nice but there could be more of a blending of the inorganic and organic worlds.

Fathom Vol. 8 #1 is entertaining in a lot of ways and moves the narrative forward. Where it ends up delivers what’s likely a second issue that might be more new reader friendly. With some narrative changes, this could have been an explosive debut reinvigorating the series. As is, it attempts to please two camps of readers and in the end wind up making neither happy.

Story: Vince Hernandez Art: Mauricio Campetella
Color: Peter Steigerwald Letterer: Zen
Story: 7.0 Art: 7.0 Overall: 7.0 Recommendation: Read

Aspen Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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!

Each week our contributors choose what they can’t wait to read this week or just sounds interesting. In other words, this is what we’re looking forward to and think you should be taking a look at!

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alexandria Ocasio Cortez & the Freshman Force: Who Dis? (Devil’s Due Comics) – We’re a sucker for these types of comics and we’ll admit the political nerds in us are really interested in seeing exactly what’s within the pages of this issue.

All-Time Comics Zerosis Deathscape #0 (Floating World Comics) – An all-new five issue miniseries and if it’s like the previous releases, we’re psyched. This superhero world is a mix of modern and classic and just a lot of pulp action fun.

Black Badge #10 (BOOM! Studios) – One of the best comics on the market, it’s a twisted take on a Boy Scouts like group that’s used to recruit and train young assassins. You can learn more about the history of the program here!

Fathom Vol. 8 #1 (Aspen Comics) – Aspen has been hit and miss lately with a few false starts over the years but they seem to be more focused this time and we’re excited to see if this new volume reflects a renewed Aspen.

Giant-Man #1 (Marvel) – The many individuals who have used that name come together in this War of the Realms tie-in and we’re kind of excited for it.

Last Stop on the Red Line #1 (Dark Horse) – A supernatural crime story from Paul Maybury and Sam Lotfi that has us really intrigued to check it out.

Marvel Action: Spider-Man #4 (IDW Publishing) – IDW’s Marvel line has been great for kids and each issue a lot of fun. So, check it out, especially if you’re looking for comics for kids.

Planet of the Nerds #2 (AHOY Comics) – The first issue was funny and AHOY packs so much in each and every issue they put out. Just a great value for your dollar.

Science Comics: Cars, Engines that Move You (First Second) – First Second’s graphic novels in this line are fantastic if you want to learn more about the topic. This is solid for kids and adults who want to learn.

War of the Realms #4/War of the Realms: Spider-Man & the League of Realms #1/War of the Realms: Strikeforce – War Avengers #1 (Marvel) – We’re suckers for this, we’ll be honest. The event has been very hit and miss but we’re hoping it turns around. It has to, right?

Preview: Michael Turner’s Fathom Volume 8 #1

Michael Turner’s Fathom Volume 8 #1

Vince Hernandez – Story  / Mauricio Campetella – Art / Peter Steigerwald- Colors / Zen – Letters

The world below is no longer a secret and everything has led to this…

Aspen Matthews must restore the balance between both Humans and The Blue as once again Fathom’s preeminent villain, Killian, has returned to reclaim what he believes belongs to himself and his people! The stakes have never been higher as this volume returns Aspen’s best-selling franchise for over 20 years to its roots, as Aspen must risk the fate of both worlds in order to stop Fathom’s most dangerous foe!

Aspen’s Vince Hernandez (Michael Turner’s Fathom: Kiani, Charismagic) marks his debut on Fathom’s principal series alongside artist Mauricio Campetella (Jirni) and colorist Peter Steigerwald (Fathom, Superman/Batman), in a storyline that will define the Fathom universe for years to come!

Fathom Volume 8 #1 is in stores May 15th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                  $3.99

Michael Turner's FATHOM Volume 8 #1

Aspen Comics’ Releases in August 2019

IDOLIZED vol 1 TPB

David Schwartz – Story  / Micah Gunnell ; Pasquale Qualano – Art / David Curiel – Colors

Aspen Comics proudly presents their first ever super-hero series, IDOLIZED!

In a world filled with superheroes, it can be so difficult for a talented young person with powers to break into the hero industry and make their mark. At long last, the new TV series SUPERHERO IDOL is offering you a shot to achieve fame and fortune and to change your destiny. If you can survive the challenges and conquer the competition, you’ll receive the greatest prize of all: the opportunity to join the world’s most revered super-team: THE POWERED PROTECTORS! IDOLIZED tells the story of a girl with fledgling superpowers and a dark past, who seeks revenge, and ultimately finds redemption, over the course of competing in the SUPERHERO IDOL TV series. 

Now, the entire IDOLIZED story is gathered into a massive trade paperback, jam-packed with bonus materials that give a unique look into the creative process, including the original series pitch, scripts, character designs, art thumbnails, the process of creating a cover, never-before-seen photos from the RACHEL CLARK cover photo shoot, and much more! 

IDOLIZED is written by DAVID B. SCHWARTZ (“Meltdown”), with art by MICAH GUNNELL (“Shrugged”) and PASQUALE QUALANO (“Barman ’66”), with colors by DAVID CURIEL (“The Avengers”), and featuring a direct market cover by the legendary ARTHUR ADAMS. Don’t miss out on one of the most innovative action-adventure series Aspen Comics has ever published!

IDOLIZED vol 1 TPB is in stores August 7th, 2019!

FC                               176 pages                                $17.99                         TPB

LOLA XOXO vol 3 #2

Siya Oum – Story & Art

It’s mayhem in The Wasteland as Siya Oum’s best-selling Lola XOXO has reached its pivotal third volume!

Yellowstone Park is one of the country’s most cherished national treasures…That is, before the apocalypse forever changed its landscape in the most deadly ways! Now, Lola must confront this new geographical reality while also making a tragic discovery of her own!

Superstar creator Siya Oum provides a thrilling adventure with her riveting story and gorgeous illustrations for this climactic Lola XOXO Volume 3!

LOLA XOXO vol 3 #2 is in stores August 14th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                  $3.99

SOULFIRE vol 8 #3

J.T. Krul – Story  / Raffaele Forte – Art / Valentina Taddeo – Colors

Soulfire is back with its biggest story—and greatest challenge to its heroes ever!

The bloody and contemptuous War of the Light rages on—but nothing can prepare either side for the biggest team-up in the history of the Soulfire universe! Grace and Rainier. Side-by-side! Enough said!

Veteran Soulfire scribe J.T. Krul (Soulfire, Jirni) returns and teams up with rising star Raffaele Forté and colorist Valentina Taddeo (Aspen Visions: Soulfire) in this magical world-shattering new volume that will change the face of everything you know about the Soulfire Universe!

SOULFIRE vol 8 #3 is in stores August 28th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                  $3.99

FATHOM vol 8 #4

Vince Hernandez – Story  / Mauricio Campetella – Art / Peter Steigerwald – Colors

The world below is no longer a secret and everything has led to this…

In the darkest depths of the ocean, Aspen and Kiani must confront the most deadly foe they’ve ever collectively faced—Anika fortified by the armor and incredible power of The Black!

Aspen’s Vince Hernandez (Michael Turner’s Fathom: Kiani, Charismagic) marks his debut on Fathom’s principal series alongside artist Mauricio Campetella (Jirni) and colorists Peter Steigerwald (Fathom, Superman/Batman) in a storyline that will define the Fathom universe for years to come!

FATHOM vol 8 #4 is in stores August 21st, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                  $3.99

Aspen Comics’ Releases in July 2019

LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1

Siya Oum – Story & Art

It’s mayhem in The Wasteland as Siya Oum’s best-selling Lola XOXO reaches its pivotal third volume!

Lola has spent the better part of her life attempting to reunite with her long-lost parents following a catastrophic nuclear level event in The United States. But, like all things in the apocalyptic “Wasteland,” the truth always comes with a price—and oftentimes that means violence—or worse, death!

Superstar creator Siya Oum provides a thrilling first issue debut with her riveting story and gorgeous illustrations for the beginning of this climactic Lola XOXO Volume 3!

LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1 is in stores July 10th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99

LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1
LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1
LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1
LOLA XOXO vol 3 #1

SOULFIRE vol 8 #2

J.T. Krul – Story  / Raffaele Forte – Art / Valentina Taddeo – Colors

Soulfire is back with its biggest story—and greatest challenge to its heroes ever!

Grace is determined to protect magic in all its forms from a world still locked in their technological ways, but she is not outwardly looking for a fight. Minerva, on the other hand, has amassed a strike force from around the globe and is ready to face this strange new danger. And now, she has a target–Rainier’s realm at Devil’s Tower!

Veteran Soulfire scribe J.T. Krul (SoulfireJirni) returns and teams up with rising star Raffaele Forté and colorist Valentina Taddeo (Aspen Visions: Soulfire) in this magical world-shattering new volume that will change the face of everything you know about the Soulfire Universe!

SOULFIRE vol 8 #2 is in stores July 24th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99

SOULFIRE vol 8 #2
SOULFIRE vol 8 #2
SOULFIRE vol 8 #2

FATHOM vol 8 #3

Vince Hernandez – Story  / Mauricio Campetella – Art / Peter Steigerwald – Colors

The world below is no longer a secret and everything has led to this…

Aspen and Kiani on the same side proves to be an unimaginable force of nature, as they attempt to stop Killian and Anika at all costs. However, they learn a brutal lesson that THE PEOPLE can be more effective than even their Elite Powers. Yet, their greatest surprise lies in the newly transformed Anika—as the world’s most dangerous threat somehow manages to gain even more powers—from an unlikely—and deadly—source!

Aspen’s Vince Hernandez (Michael Turner’s Fathom: KianiCharismagic) marks his debut on Fathom’s principal series alongside artist Mauricio Campetella (Jirni) and colorists Peter Steigerwald (FathomSuperman/Batman) in a storyline that will define the Fathom universe for years to come!

FATHOM vol 8 #3 is in stores July 17th, 2019!

FC                               32 pages                                 $3.99

FATHOM vol 8 #3
FATHOM vol 8 #3
FATHOM vol 8 #3

Aspen Celebrates 15 Years of Fathom with a New Volume from Vince Hernanez, Mauricio Campetella, and Peter Steigerwald

On the heels of their partnership with Mythos Studios to develop the animated feature film for Michael Turner’s Fathom, as well as the ambitious fifteen-year anniversary campaign last year, Aspen Comics will be releasing Fathom #1 this summer with an all new creative team on May 15th.

The publisher is streamlining their release of titles in 2019 to feature their core and flagship series in an effort to maintain the standard of quality the publisher is known for throughout the industry.

This summer kicks off their first major release, Michael Turner’s Fathom, on May 15th with the brand-new creative team and implementing retailer-friendly ordering of their special edition variants.

Fathom: Kiani writer Vince Hernandez takes the helm of the principle Fathomseries for Volume 8 along with rising star newcomer Mauricio Campetella with colors by superstar colorist Peter Steigerwald. This new volume will feature direct edition covers by Campetella and creator, the late Michael Turner.

The publisher has announced they will be offering Fathom #1 Retailer Special Edition variant covers with no restrictions on order quantity by creator Michael Turner and superstar artist Siya Oum. This is the first time Aspen has provided retailers the chance to order their incentive variants with no restrictions and encourages fans to check with their local comic book store to pre-order.

Double-Double! The Death of Superman/Reign of the Supermen Double Feature!

Fans will soon have two options to watch the two-part DC Universe feature-length animated films, The Death of Superman and Reign of the Supermen TOGETHER!

First, Superman’s greatest adventure – his death and rebirth – will be unveiled in a special two-day exclusive theatrical event as Warner Bros. and DC join forces with Fathom Events for a double feature presentation of the previously released The Death of Superman and the first in-theater screening of the all-new Reign of the Supermen nationwide. The films will screen in more than 500 select movie theaters on Sunday, January 13 at 12:55 p.m. and Monday, January 14 at 8:00 p.m. (all local times) through Fathom’s Digital Broadcast Network (DBN). Tickets for The Death of Superman/ Reign of the SupermenDouble Feature can be purchased now and participating theater box offices. 

And later this year, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will release the two movies as a single, full-length film with never-before-seen extended footage and a collectible item within the box set. Details will be released in the coming months.

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