arcanacomics.com

Two of the Greatest American Heroes!

The third and final issue of Stephen J Cannell’s beloved cult classic arrives in stores TODAY complete with a special Barack Obama cover! The Greatest American Hero himself teams up with writers Christopher Folino and Derek McCaw and superstar artist Clint Hilinski for this exciting re-imagining of the cult classic series.

Buy the Red Foil edition of this collector’s issue now:

http://www.arcanacomics.com/store/

Camilla d’Errico’s Burn Now Available As Webcomic!

Welcome to a world where humans and mecha co-exist. What was once thought to be a symbiotic relationship between humans and machines has turned into a full-scale war due to rising resentment by their human creators. In one of the towns, a 13 year old boy named Burn will find out the true meaning of horror. The arrival of the sentient Shoftiel, a machine programmed to destroy mankind, will forever link the two in a battle of fates. One action, one desperate act of self-preservation will forever change the fate of man and machine.

Superstar artist Camilla d’Errico has now made her critically accalimed series availabe as one of Arcana’s webcomics. Read the entire series at:

www.arcanacomics.com

Don Bluth’s Space Ace!

Arcana Comics is proud to announce that Space Ace is coming back! Fan favorite writer Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible) wrote these reprintings from CrossGen, and a new writing team will carry forward his momentum with issues #4-6!

Follow the adventures of the musclebound hero Ace! The villainous Commander Borf attacks Ace with the “Infanto Ray,” a weapon that transforms him into an adolescent version of himself, and kidnaps his girlfriend Kimberly. It is up to Dexter - Ace’s younger incarnation - to rescue Kimberly and prevent Borf from using the Infanto Ray to conquer Earth. Based on the classic 1980’s video game!

In Previews

This month in Previews, for items shipping July, Arcana will be publishing the Don Bluth’s Space Ace #1 (MAY090645) and Ultima Thula GN (MAY090646).

Shipping This Month

This May sees the release of Arcana’s Matriarch TP (MAR094065) .

Interview with Rock Shaink and Mark Jonathan Stanley

This month, Arcana’s Vice President of Operations, Mark Poulton interviews Rock Shaink and Mark Jonathan Stanley regarding their involvement in the slate of Arcana properties that are currently in development.

MP: What can you tell us about your involvement in Arcana’s Grunts, Ripped, and Coma?

RS: Let’s see. Where to begin? I guess everything started when Sean got in touch with me about the possibility of working together on something. We grabbed a few drinks a week later, and talked about what I was working on, what we (Mark and I) were working on, and what Arcana was working on, and ultimately how we could come together on something. But, really it ended up being a long conversation on comics, the industry, film, television, etc. that was a total blast. After a few hours at the table we realized we hadn’t really discussed the topic of collaboration in too much detail. So, we finished the first meet with Sean giving me a handful of books, and some scripts/artwork from future projects. I in turn promised to send him a few ideas that may work with what Arcana was planning in the future.
When I got back to my office I couriered copies of the books to my co-writer and read… a lot. I think I read half the Arcana library in one sitting, and immediately fell in love with what these guys were doing.

The next day Sean and I had a great follow up chat, where I gave my thoughts on what I’d read, and Sean then told me he had 2 books he HAD to send us. I in turn told him I had an idea, I’d loved, that was a bit darker then the rest, but judging by what Arcana was publishing and a few of the books they were coming out with later in the year, I think it may just fit the kind of “edgy” thrillers they were willing to take a shot on. So, we again exchanged emails — Sean sending us two soon to be published books (which turned out to be GRUNTS and RIPPED) and myself sending him COMA. And that was the beginning of what became the… well, the beginning. And wow, I just chatted everyone’s ear off.

MJS: Yep. What he said.

MP: How did these projects come about?

RS: As I’d said, Sean sent me a few select books (Ripped, Grunts) he thought fit what we were doing, and I in turn sent him one of my favorite projects (Coma). Ripped was the first one I read, and I immediately called my co-writer to have him read it first. Unfortunately, him being a Brit, and it being 4am over there when I did so, he did not answer.

But, anyway, had he picked up, I’d had told him how much the comic had blown me away, and how well it matched what we were looking for. The creator had done a great job of capturing a fun and exciting story and dropping it into this unique, yet relatable world.

MJS: With Time travel.

RS: Right. So, the next day, or early the next morning, I hear back from Mark and he’s going on about how this book is definitely our next project. I’m of course ecstatic that he’s read RIPPED already. Only to quickly realize…

MJS: I think it was when dinosaurs entered the conversation.

RS: Haha. Yep, it was at the mention of dinosaurs that Mark stopped me, and asked me how the hell I was planning on getting dinosaurs in to WW2?

MJS: It was then we realized we’d not only read two different books, but that neither of the other had read the one we were going on about. Rock had accidently sent me two copies of Grunts, but none of Ripped, and in turn had 2 copies of Ripped, but none of Grunts. So a trade was organized, and back to reading we went.

RS: The next day we chat again and suddenly find ourselves in a bit of a dilemma. We really, really love both books. Two dream projects dropped right in to our laps, and now we had to make a decision as to which to do.

MJS: A few days later we made one of the easiest and most difficult decisions we’ve ever made collectively. Easy because we decided we wanted to do both. Difficult because… well, we decided we wanted to do both.

RS: We sat down, looked at our already well-booked schedules and decided one way or another we had to make room for these. So, we set our reps and Sean (Arcana) to chat to see what we could do to make it work.

MJS: Shortly there after we get word from the powers that be that it’s a full go. And off we go. We decided to dive in to RIPPED first, while we chatted with Shannon from Grunts on some ideas for where the book could go beyond the page.

RS: With Ripped we’re staying inside the world created, while bringing some new unique elements to it, but in chatting with Shannon on Grunts, he had some excellent ideas for where the story could continue off the page, so we wanted time to work that out with him while we attacked Ripped.

MJS: Don’t forget Coma.

RS: And Coma. Yes, Coma, as I’d said was a passion project of mine that I needed to get out of me. I sent Sean a copy of the treatment for Coma that I’d written really for myself. I was immediately unsure of the decision, knowing that the story does dive in to some dark topics, and doesn’t shy away where others may. So, I have to say I was absolutely thrilled when Sean got back to me about thirty minutes later saying “We have to do this”. And from there Coma swiftly joined our burgeoning Arcana/Romark family.

MP: Were you a comic book fan growing up?

RS: Growing up at the end of a dirt road in a tiny little town, where we didn’t even have the option of television until I was 12, left me few options in form of entertainment. I remember my father usually paid my little brothers and I for our chores in the form of baseball cards, but one week he returned with a few packs of cards and a comic book. The choice had to be made. I ended up reading my first ever comic book that day, and I’ve never looked back.

MJS: Being a Brit, and growing up around the time of 2000 AD (the comic, not the actual period!), I was always a big fan of characters like Judge Dredd and Rogue Trooper. It’s that element of fantasy, and the great sense of escapism they provide. Comic books were always like movies to me. Something which I probably didn’t realize until I became a little older. But to me, it’s always been like watching a film on the page.

MP:  Arcana fans are probably more familar with Grunts and Ripped, what can you tell us about Coma?
 

MJS: Coma is going to be a kick ass ride from the sick, twisted mind of Rock Shaink. A comic book, and a movie. Other than that, I am sworn to secrecy! But meet me in the bar later. I’m partial to beer!

RS: You know, try as I may, I don’t think I could’ve said it any better then Mark just did. I will add simply that it’s a passion project, and one that jumps right into the deep end of the noir-esque psycho-thriller genre. A pull no punches, no turning away, vivid journey down a very very dark path. Wait, “noir-esque psycho thriller” – did I just make up a new genre?

MP: What do you find most appealing in each of these properties?

MJS: I think it’s the great mix of fantasy meets reality in each project. You see, Rock is more of the reality guy, whereas I tend to lean more toward fantasy. We’ve always been able to combine that to good effect, and usually end up with something that’s absolutely unique on both terms. So finding Ripped and Grunts, two projects that jump in and out of both elements, and pull it off in spades, was something I knew we needed to sink our teeth into.

RS: Each of these books allows us room to flex our own creative muscles independently, and then to bring our work together for the story. With Ripped, I was the guy with the dry-erase board trying to quantify this unique form, or potential idea of “time-travel”… while Mark was at the same time thinking of cool characters and times in history we could mess with. For Grunts it’s the similar process, just this time with behemoth-sized super soldiers and the Germans.

MJS: Both projects feel real, yet of course, they‘re not. But there’s just something happening with them that works on an unconscious level. You’re both connecting and escaping at the same time. It’s the ultimate magic trick. And my hat goes off to all those involved.

MP:  What do you think makes for a successful comic book adaptation?
 

MJS: I think it all comes down to keeping the spirit intact, whilst also staying true to what works on the screen. And that’s something, I feel, which carries all throughout the process. Not just in the writing. There’s a template, but it has to be treated with respect. Sometimes it means changing certain elements. But in the end, if the spirit is still there, then usually what made the comic work, will also make the film work. Usually!
 

RS: Yes, “Usually!” indeed. I can’t agree with that more. I’m a huge comic fan, but at the same time I’m a huge film fan. Finding the ability to stay true to one, while ensuring it works for the other can be quite tricky. However with the blessing of all those involved, I think it’s also one of the most fun elements of what we do as writers. Think about how many times you’ve seen something, heard about something, or read something and said to yourself… “This would be a great movie”. Luckily, we get a shot at actually making that a reality, whether it be; adapting short stories, magazine articles, video games, comics, novels, etc.

MP: You guys are both really busy these days, with many projects in development including the remake of the 80s cult film the Hidden. How did you get involved with this remake? Were you fans of the original?
 

RS: We can’t really say too much about the project, or it’s current status. This project has been a roller coaster ride itself, with lots of ups and downs as far as those involved, etc. All-in-all, it was a ton of fun to write, we had a blast researching it, and luckily for us it’s still a script that gets us a lot of work.

MP: These projects are all going through your company Romark Films. What can you tell us about the company? How it was formed? And what made you guys decide to do it?
 

RS: Romark was born out of our expanding responsibilities as writers, directors and producers. As writers our work was taking on a life of it’s own, and we were suddenly flush with projects that we were shepherding as producers and those we were stepping into as directors. I think for us, Romark became the home in which we could make them all work together.
 

MJS: I think it was also out of our desire to oversee projects from beginning to end. Being a writer is great, but at times it can be very frustrating. Building a company like this not only gives us more freedom on the creative side, but also on the business side. So hopefully it becomes the best of both worlds.
 

RS: I think also as filmmakers this was ultimately a dream we both shared. A place we can both focus on our own creative endeavors, but that also allows us the opportunity to work with other creative writers and directors we highly respect, and at the same time seek out new rising talents with a voice, and passion similar to our own.

MP: Tell us a little bit about the process you guys take when writing something together?
 

RS: We pay our ghostwriters extremely well, and then go on an extended vacation. Haha! But seriously…
 

MJS: I think the best way to look at it would be to compare us both to architects of a great house. (The script being the house in this example.) Together, we’d both meet up and build a sturdy, creative foundation. At that point I would go off and put up the four walls of the house. Meanwhile, Rock would move inside, and decorate each room. Then we’d both meet back up at the top to finish the roof.
 

RS: Can’t agree more. Mark was always the structural engineer to my extravagant painter. I’d jump inside and work on character and dialogue, while Mark would lock down the plot points and act breaks we needed to work around or within.
 

MJS: Over the years though, I’d say the line between those two roles has really started to blur.
 

RS: Definitely. I know on one of our last projects there were actual full scenes we could not for life of us recall who wrote originally. Something I’m finding a lot more in our last few years of work together. And something I think is only allowing us to become better writers in the process.

MP: What else are you guys working on? For yourself? For Romark?
 

MJS: Between us, we’re looking at adapting another comic book - the name of which we can’t mention yet, but which will star rising action star Scott Adkins (Bourne Ultimatum, Wolverine). And we’ve just signed on recently to adapt the brilliant graphic novel “I am Spartacus” by Dan Wickline (30 Days of Night). Solo-wise, I’m also working on a project with Justin Stanley. The title of which, we’re keeping under wraps.
 

RS: We’re stoked to work with Scott on the new project, which is going to be such a fun, fast, and intense actioner. And “I Am Spartacus” was a project we both read the day it came out and fell in love with, so being hired to adapt it, is a fantastic opportunity. Beyond that, and the obvious projects, and development deal surrounding the interview (Coma, Ripped, Grunts) we’ve just wrapped up post on a new comedy TV pilot that I wrote/directed entitled “Weed Shop”, and we are actively moving forward on two others in which we trade off producer hats. Independently, I’m directing a few more music videos and commercials in the oncoming months, crossing my fingers that we get to continue the journey on “Weed Shop” and being excited for the team we’ve just locked down on a new hush-hush psycho/thriller I’m writing/directing for Romark.
 

MJS: Yes, we just left you with a cliffhanger.
 

RS: Dun-dun-dunnnnnnnn.

Arcana Moves on Coma, Grunts, and Ripped!

Arcana Comics is proud to announce that Coma, Grunts, and Ripped have entered a production development agreement with Romark Films.

Romark Films was founded by filmmakers, Mark Jonathan Stanley and Rock Shaink. Shaink, who is currently working on a remake of the 80s’ cult classic, “The Hidden,” is attached to all three projects as the screenwriter with Arcana’s CEO, Sean O’Reilly, set to produce. Romark is currently in production on the the new comedy series “Weed Shop” as well as in prep for the feature films “Reversal” and the graphic novel adaptation “I Am Spartacus”.

Grunts, created by Keith Giffen and Shannon Eric Denton, tells the tale of of an American WW2 squad, who encounter a German superhuman assault squad and starts a Eugenics Race that carries into present day. Ripped, created by Jay Busbee and Jason Flowers, is the story of a college dropout who must stop the end of mankind when he learns he has the ability to travel through time. Meanwhile, Coma is an upcoming project from Arcana Comics created by Rock Shaink which he’ll be developing as a motion picture at the same time.

Clockwork Girl Teams Up With Mashon.com!

Clockwork Girl, the hit series from Arcana, is teaming up with Mashon.com for a new line of e-cards. In addition, users will have the opportunity to make their very own Clockwork Girl online stories. Created by Planetwide Media, MashOn is an interactive suite of online tools which allows users to create and share their own digital stories, e-cards, comic books and graphic novels by combining their personal photos, music, videos and narration to create their own unique personalized story.

For more information, please visit:

www.mashon.com

2009 Harvey Awards

Dear professionals, for your consideration Arcana Comics would like to remind you of the following titles when looking at this year’s Harvey Awards:

Best Graphic Album Original - Koni Waves: Ghouls Gone Wild!

Best Graphic Album Previously Published - Clockwork Girl Hardcover

Best Online Comic - The Matriarch

Best Cover Artist - Stephen Sistilli (Koni Waves, Velvet Rope)

Best Continuing or Limited Series: Camilla d’Errico’s Burn

Best New Series - Corrective Measures

Best New Talent - Grant Chastain (Corrective Measures)

Best Anthology - Velvet Rope

For more information on the Harvey Awards and the official 2009 nomination
ballot, please visit:

http://www.harveyawards.org/

Kade: Rising Sun #1

On the hunt for the demons that plague our earth, and his soul, has been his only objective and it has led him to the Land of the Rising Sun. He senses there’s a demon, an oni, that he must banish… but there’s another person he senses… Is it the return of Ezra? Is it the beautiful assassin Shi? Who is this mysterious woman? Shi creator, Billy Tucci lends his artististic talents to the cover of Kade: Rising Sun #1 joining the list of super star artists like Mike Grell, Greg Horn, Humberto Ramos, and Ben Templesmith who have all left their print on the gothic demon hunter.

Kade: Rising Sun #1 is available this month. Written by Kade creator, Sean O’Reilly, with Jay Busbee and illustrated by CDuce this is the fourth series in the ongoing adventures of Arcana’s flagship title.

Buy the book now:

http://www.arcanacomics.com/store/

In Previews

Last month in Previews, for items shipping April, Arcana will be publishing the Banzai Girls Manga TP (FEB094042) and Kade Rising Sun #3 (of 4) (FEB094043). This month, Arcana offers the following for a May release: Matriarch TP (MAR094065).

Shipping This Month

This March Arcana roars in like a lion with the release of Greatest American Hero #2 (NOV083769) and Kade: Rising Sun #1 (OCT083824) .

Interview with Bruce Brown

This month, Arcana’s Vice President of Operations, Mark Poulton interviews Bruce Brown, writer of the upcoming Arcana books, Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom and Jack and the Zombie Box.

MP: Bruce, you have two upcoming Arcana titles in the works: Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom and Jack and the Zombie Box. What can you tell us about them?

BB: Howard Lovecraft & The Frozen Kingdom

After visiting his father in Butler Sanitarium, young Howard Lovecraft ignores his father’s warning and uses the legendary Necronomicon to open a portal to a strange frozen world filled with horrifying creatures and grave danger!

Howard Lovecraft is a twisted, little all ages tale that should thrill Lovecraft fans and if you are not a fan of Lovecraft and just enjoy a dark tale, this is the book for you!

Jack and the Zombie Box

Jack is your typical 3 year old boy who has an imaginary friend named Uncle Bug. After messing up the kitchen, Jack’s dad is given the task of distracting his son while his mom cleans up the mess. To occupy Jack, he plays a DVD of his childhood favorite cartoon. Jack becomes obsessed with the show and his obsession begins to drive his entire family crazy. Basically, Jack is partially based on a true story. My four year old became obsessed with Scooby Doo.

At first I thought it was cool, but five zillion episodes later I thought I was going to lose my mind.

If you have kids, you know what I am talking about! Ha!

MP: How did you get into writing comics?

BB: I had always loved this genre since I can remember. Like most fans, you think to yourself, wouldn’t it be cool if…

Well, one day I had an idea for a story and thought, I can do this. So, I did a little research on comic writing and I got to work. Once I finished, I sent the script off to Marvel. Which, now I know how ridiculous that effort was. To my surprise, I heard back from them. While my script was severely lacking, they said they felt I had talent and should stick with it.

Unfortunately, I have no clue who wrote it. I couldn’t read the signature. But I stuck with it and never gave up on writing comics and it is finally starting to pay off.

MP: Since HP Lovecraft is the main character of one of your books, has Lovecraft’s work always been a favorite of yours?

BB: Actually, I never really read too much Lovecraft until recently. I was asked to co-write a script and it was Lovecraftian in nature. So, I took a crash course in Lovecraft and found out why he is considered the greatest horror writer in modern times. Honestly, it was the author himself who inspired my book.

HP Lovecraft suffered some very tragic events in his life and I was intrigued by what kind of effect that would have on him.

MP: In Jack and the Zombie Box, Jack is obsessed with a DVD of his father’s favorite childhood cartoon. Are there any cartoons you’re obsessed with?

BB: That’s a tough one because I love so many! When I was a kid, I loved Bugs Bunny. As I got older, I became a huge fan of Scooby Doo. Now, I love Brave and the Bold, anything with Batman or superheroes in it; but given what I do, that is not surprising. Ha!

Also, I would have to fess up to watching and enjoying the Little Einsteins. It’s a show for little kids that teaches them about art and classical music. How cool is that.

MP: What else are you working on?

BB: I actually have several irons in the fire right now. But foremost, I am finishing up a pirate horror story.I have done several all ages projects, so I am looking forward to branching into different genres.

I co-wrote a series with Dwight L MacPherson called Interagents that is on the Th3rd World site. I also have a webcomic on drunkduck.com called The Porch that is coming up on having been read by 25,000 readers in the short time it has been out.

In the end, I am just trying to get as much work out there as possible and hope that people enjoy it and come back.

MP: Before we go, do you have any last words for fans?

BB: Just that I am truly excited about showing them Howard Lovecraft and Jack. First and foremost, I’m a comic reader. I love good stories and I know how disappointing it is to shell out money for weak ones. I hope people give my work a try and let me earn my way into the books they get at their shops.

Arcana Goes Online with new series of Webcomics!

Arcana Comics is proud to announce a new line of webcomics ready to launch! Hosted on their website with the amazing PanelFlow technology, Arcana Webcomics will be updated anywhere from twice a month to three times per week by their respective creators. Arcana Comics’ Vice President of Operations, Mark Poulton said, “We’re very excited to begin this new chapter in Arcana’s evolution. Arcana has always been a progressive transmedia company that has pushed boundaries and now we are adding webcomics to our arsenal. Now, comic fans can still get their comic book fix with these brand new webcomics and in the process maybe discover some of the other titles Arcana offers!”

Six new titles compromise Arcana’s Webcomics launch. They are:

Title: Doc Monster’s Spuds Starring Shadowflame
Synopsis: Shadowflame has been transported into the world of Doc Monster’s Spuds. Hilarity ensues.
Web Team: Rob X. Roman and Joe Martino
Updated: Every 2 weeks

Title: Fafnir the Dragon in Barack To The Future
Synopsis: Mightier than a god, dumber than a rock. While searching for his stolen treasure, history’s greatest dragon is hurled into an apocalyptic future!
Web Team: Thormod Skald and Asta G
Updates: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Title: Olive Peril
Synopsis: A young girl runs away from an imposed marriage into a strange new world where everything is strangely like a fairy-tale and gets swept up into a story that she never intended to be in.
Web Team: Laurel Shelley-Reuss
Updates: Every Monday and Friday

Title: Snakor’s Pizza
Synopsis: After his sinister snake-based society of snake-inspired terrorists fails to rule thw globe, Snakor must rely on his fallback career… work at a Pizza Place.
Web Team: Sean Jordan, Kody Peters, and Dave Howlett
Updates: Every Wednesday

Title: The Matriarch
Synopsis: Career woman. Single mother. Superhero. Sherry Benning knew having a baby would change her life. She didn’t know it would change the world.
Web Team: Robert Burke Richardson and Steven Yarbrough
Updates: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Title: Zoo Dot Com
Synopsis: The City Zoo is having some financial difficulty. In order to cut costs, they’ve decided to employ the zoo inhabitants to create and maintain the zoo website.
Web Team: Matt McCray
Updates: Every Monday

Banzai Girl Manga TPB

This manga digest format Banzai Girl reveals the adventures of Jinky Coronado in black-and-white-with-graytones manga style. Popular manga artist/writer (and FHM Model!) Jinky Coronado brings her fancified life adventures to life in this 160-page saga. Watch Jinky reach her 18th birthday! See the amazing attack by tentacle monsters! See her parents and townspeople controlled by alien invaders! See all this and more as everyone’s favorite Asian schoolgirl, Jinky Coronado, brings her fabulously Filipino adventures from the drawing table to this manga digest!

Buy the book now: www.arcanacomics.com/store/

In Previews

This month in Previews, for items shipping March, Arcana will be publishing the Greatest American Hero #3 (of 3) (JAN09 3978) and the Gwaii HC (JAN09 3979).

Shipping This Month

Arcana rings in the New Year with the following releases: Gauze TPB (NOV08 3768) and the
Greatest American Hero #2 (of 2) (NOV08 3769).

Interview with Heaven’s Echo’s Siike Donnelly

This month, Arcana’s Vice President of Operations, Mark Poulton interviews Heaven’s Echo writer/artist/creator, Siike Donnelly.

MP: Siike, what can you tell us about your upcoming Arcana comic, Heaven’s Echo?

SD: Sadly, not much. Just that it truly is a dream come true to work on it. Imagine some of the cool stories and superhero battles you’d love to see in comics today. That is what will make up the Heaven’s Echo universe. I’ve always wanted to see Captain America fight Superman in a battle that will only allow one of them to walk away. Legal reasons prevent those other companies from crossing over like that and telling stories like that, but by creating our own world here, we can get fights like that as often as we want.

MP: What attracted you to bring this project to Arcana Comics?

SD: The guys behind the magic of Arcana Comics did. I met you Mark, nearly two years ago now at Comic Con ‘06 in San Diego. From there we talked about short stories of mine and then I eventually met Sean O’Reilly. Luckily, Sean and I just clicked with one another the second we started talking. When I saw the passion he had for telling stories and building a new mythology, I knew this was certainly the guy to work with. Not to mention the fact the he actually came and offered it to me, which truly is the biggest honor in my world. Another attraction is certainly the challenge of creating something new for fans. We’ve all seen over dozens of “New Universes” that are usually hit or miss. As a writer, I love to be challenged, especially at this stage in my career.

MP: Who were some of your writing influences?

SD: Agatha Christie. I grew up with a very traditional way of telling stories. Her mystery books were always ones that kept my mind working, even after I had read the story. She was the first writer to show me how
powerful words can be. As far as other writers that influence me, I’m a huge Jeph Loeb fan. I love Ed Brubaker’s work. Allan Heinberg. Peter David. S.D. Perry. Stephen King. Christopher Moore. Warren Ellis. David Goyer. Geoff Johns. David Koepp. Shawn Ryan. Brian Augustyn and Humerto Ramos (I’m a HUGE Crimson fan). And I cannot forget, the amazing Judy Blume for her book “Are you there God? It’s me Margaret.”

MP: Do you get inspiration for your writing from other sources?

SD: I mainly get inspiration from music and actual people. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his autobiography had a very profound impact on me as a young man. I wish I could have been around during that time. My
grandparents, my mother, and my brother are key players in the man I am today. I honestly would have given up writing years ago if it wasn’t for them. They are truly my muses. Sevendust. Tricky. Rolling Stones. INXS. Rob Zombie. Incubus. Linkin Park. Fort Minor. DMX. RZA. Graeme Revell. Harry Gregson-Williams. Frank Sinatra. These are all just a fraction of the musical talents that also inspire me and influence my writing. (laughs) Sorry, had to mention music. I’m one of those nerds too.

MP: Now you’ve also recently written a novel, Rhino. Was making the transition from writing novels to comics hard? What are some of the differences?

SD: So far, the transition from novels to comics has not been hard at all. Rhino was actually written as a screenplay when I was seventeen years old. Over the years I’ve rewritten it so many times as a screenplay, I just decided to one day flesh it out even more. So the novel now reads very cinematically, which is how I think books should be written these days. With less people reading novels, I feel that my way of reaching the people that don’t read as much is to make it seem like it’s not just a book. As far as differences, the only major one is action beats. They have to snap well in a comic, even more so than in a novel. Also, in a novel you tend to be inside each character’s head a lot more, leaving less need for dialogue
some of the time, but in a comic, fans want to read great dialogue and want their one-liners. I’ll be working extra hard to make sure I deliver on this end.

MP: Anything else you’d like to tell fans?

SD: Just that a lot of hard work and planning is going in to this new series to make it something very special. I, like other comic fans, get frustrated at times when I read things like “groundbreaking” and “will have ramifications for years to come.” The goal at Arcana is to tell stories
that are just great stories. Stories that make a difference, not just in the characters’ lives, but in readers as a well. We want to inspire the next generation of writers, the way we ourselves were inspired in our
youths. That’s why us writers write at all. It’s our job to create the universe, but it’s up to the fans to keep it alive.

Telefilm Provides Funding For Clockwork Girl!

Arcana is proud to announce that Telefilm Canada, the federal cultural agency dedicated to the development and promotion of the Canadian audiovisual industry, has provided funding for the Clockwork Girl animated film.

Clockwork Girl tells the tale of a nameless robot girl who has recently been given the gift of life from her creator. While she explores the wonders of an ordinary world she meets an amazing mutant boy and they share a friendship that must overcome their warring families. Created by Sean O’Reilly and Kevin Hanna, the series was the first release from Arcana’s all ages division, Arcana Kids. Debuting in July 2007 the book received critical acclaim for its astounding artwork and timeless love story (order it at your local retailer with order code MAR083433).

Telefilm Canada is a Crown corporation reporting to Parliament through the Department of Canadian Heritage. Headquartered in Montréal, Telefilm provides services to the Canadian audiovisual industry by means of four regional offices located in Vancouver, Toronto, Montréal and Halifax.. Telefilm’s main goals are celebrating the telling of unique Canadian stories, actively championing a sustainable Canadian audiovisual culture, reward performance, encourage new thinking, and promote diversity.
When recently asked about the Clockwork Girl film, co-creator Kevin Hanna said, “I’m not sure how much I can say, other then I am thrilled that things are going as well as I ever hoped they could be. Working in Hollywood, I know that adaptations are a gamble that often taint the source material. So far everything is going right with Clockwork Girl, the people involved really understand the spirit of the book and the characters. I think fans of the book will be very happy with where this ends up.”

For more information on Clockwork Girl and Arcana Comics, please visit:

www.arcanacomics.com

Mark Poulton Named VP of Operations

Arcana is pleased to announce the promotion of Mark Poulton as Vice President of Operations. Mark began his career at Arcana in the Fall of 2005 when he brought his series Koni Waves to the publisher. Since then he has created several titles for the company including the upcoming Avengelyne vs Koni Waves and Club Vampire. Prior to the promotion, Mark served as Head of Marketing and in his new position, Mark will help Arcana with its continued growth and expansion in the industry. Sean O’Reilly said, “For me to hand off any part of Arcana’s operation is difficult but Mark has proven time and time again, that he is reliable, honest and one of the hardest working guys I know. Some of his first work in this role will be at the San Diego Comic Convention, booth 2514, so be sure to check out his hard work as it’s simply awesome.”

Kade Box Set

Arcana’s most popular character, Kade, the gothic demon hunter is recognized in the first-ever collected commemorative box set! This limited edition box set includes his first appearance in Kade: Identity, featuring a Humberto Ramos cover as well as the set of Kade: Sun of Perdition #1-4, which introduced the comic world to the artistic talents of Stjepan Sejic. But that’s not all! If you really want the ultimate Kade Collection, this is the box set for you, all wrapped in a high-end Greg Horn box! FC $16.95 Diamond code: APR08 3550

Buy the boxset now: http://www.arcanacomics.com/store/

In Previews

This month in Previews, for items shipping Septemeber, Arcana will be publishing Burn #5 by Camilla D’Errico (Diamond Code JUL08 3653), Grant Chastain’s Corrective Measures GN (Diamond Code JUL08 3654), Marlow Soul of Darkness #1 (Diamond Code JUL08 3655) and Tales of Penance #3 by Sean Wise and Paul Gilligan (Diamond Code JUL08 3656). Pre-order them with the Diamond Codes today from any comic book retailer in the world through the Diamond Previews catalog.

Shipping This Month

July sees the release of Burn #3 (Diamond Code MAY08 3594), The Clockwork Girl hardcover (Diamond Code MAR083433) and Hellen Killer issue #3 (Diamond Code APR083549). And just in time for the San Diego Comic Con, Arcana will have the debut of two new titles: Tales of Penance: Trial of the Century #1 (Diamond Code MAY08 3596) and Wingman #1 (Diamond Code MAY08 3597).

Interview with 100 Girls’ Adam Gallardo

This month Mark Poulton interviews 100 Girls’ Adam Gallardo. Adam gives us an update on the next installment of 100 Girls, as well as his other projects, and the lowdown on Simon Pulse’s 100 Girls release.

MP: How did you come up with the idea for 100 Girls?

AG: I was working at Dark Horse Comics at the time and had just started pitching ideas to the publisher, Mike Richardson, so I was definitely trying to catch a commercial vibe. I’m not sure to what extent I was successful, I guess we’ll have to see how the Simon and Schuster edition is.

Beyond purely commercial concerns, some of my influences were the films and TV work of James Cameron and Joss Whedon. Both of these guys have stories featuring strong women who resist being classified as either vixens or victims, roles into which most traditional comics want to force female characters. It was important to me to have a strong, central female character. But one with vulnerabilities, of course.

MP: Simon Pulse is releasing a 100 Girls tpb this summer. Does the collection contain all of the issues to date? Is there any bonus material?

AG: All seven issues of the first series are collected in the Simon Pulse edition, but without any extras material. That was a little disappointing to me, but I can live with it. Maybe, if sales warrant it, we can talk them into doing a “Art of 100 Girls” type book. Keep your fingers crossed.

MP: Is the Jenna/100 Girls oneshot still in the works?

AG: This might be a question for our illustrious publisher. I wrote the two-part series about two years ago, and the art has been done for almost that long. When, or even if, it will see the light of day, is unknown to me. I’d like to see it at some point. Maybe as a value-added bonus in the “Art of 100 Girls”?
(Publisher’s Note: with Narwain closing their North American arm, the rights situation of Jenna became a little bit difficult but I’m still talking with Alessandro and I’m hoping to have this problem overcome)

MP: Who would you like to see play Sylvia in a 100 Girls movie?

AG: If some theoretical producer out there wanted to make the movie, I could see it going a couple of different ways. If they keep Sylvia the age she is in the comic, I could see either Dakota Fanning or Abigail Breslin from “Little Miss Sunshine.” If they feel the need to age her up, maybe Emma Roberts. Or we could switch things up and get Masiela Lusha from “George Lopez”.

MP: Are you working on any new projects?

AG: I’m currently writing the second volume of ” Gear School” for Dark Horse Comics. And not too long ago, I sent the script for the next installment of “100 Girls” to Todd!

MP: Before we go, do you have any last words for fans?

AG: I swear that “100 Girls” WILL be back.

Arcana Donates To Boys and Girls Club of America’s REACH for Literacy Program!

Arcana Comics, the home of Kade, Koni and Dragon’s Lair, recently donated thousands of Clockwork Girl comic books to the Boys and Girls Club of America.

The Clockwork Girl, the smash hit comic series from Arcana written by Sean O’Reilly and Kevin Hanna, tells the tale of a nameless robot girl and her friendship with an amazing mutant boy. The series was the first release from Arcana’s new Arcana Kids imprint and has received critical acclaim for its artwork and touching story.

The Boys and Girls Club of America is a national organization whose mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. It offers many life enhancing programs with caring, adult professionals that provide kids with a fun and educational experience, as well as a safe after-school environment. Headquarters are located in Atlanta, with regional offices in Chicago, Dallas, New York City, and Los Angeles .

Arcana’s Vice President of Operations, Mark Poulton said, “The Boys and Girls Club of America and Arcana Kids seemed like a natural fit under the REACH Literacy Program. It is great to work with such a worthy organization and have these comics go towards their main goal of literacy while entertaining and benefiting children.”

For more information, please visit them at:

http://www.bgca.org/

http://www.arcanacomics.com

The Art of ReBoot

ReBoot the first full-length, completely computer-animated TV series was ahead of it’s time. Co-created by Gavin Blair with writing from current DC Comics Senior Vice President, Dand Didio, ReBoot won several industry awards including the Gemini Award for Best Animated Program Series for three straight years between 1995 and 1997. Now fans can relive the magic and go behind the scenes with The Art of ReBoot, the most comprehensive collection of art from the groundbreaking CGI animated series. The book features conceptual design illustrations from UK legend, Brendan McCarthy (Judge Dredd, Shade the Changing Man, Solo), as well as illustrations from Scott Lee (PITT Crew) and Dean Ormstrom (Lucifer). The Art of ReBoot also features a 10 page section of new artwork from leading industry artists. It is a must-have for any ReBoot and animation fan!

As well ReBoot, Rainmaker and Zeros 2 Heroes were recently the recipient of winning the PopVox Digital Marketing Award.

Buy the book now: http://www.arcanacomics.com/store/

In Previews

This month in Previews, for items shipping August, Arcana will be publishing Burn #4 by Camilla D’Errico, Dwight MacPherson’s Dead Men Tell No Tales TPB, Tales of Penance #2 by Sean Wise and Paul Gilligan, and The Gwai #3.

Shipping This Month

June is a big month for Arcana with the release of the Kade Box Set featuring a gorgeous Greg Horn box (APR083550). In addition, this month sees the release of the Dragon’s Lair Hardcover collection, Camilla d’Errico’s Burn #2 (APR083547), and Helen Killer #3 (APR083549). Finally, Arcana Kids releases the second sensational issue of The Gwai #1 (FEB083462).

Interview with Dead Men Tell No Tales’ Dwight MacPherson

This month I got the chance to interview Dead Men Tell No Tales’ Dwight MacPherson. Dwight gives the lowdown on the next installment of Dead Men, as well as what extra pirate booty one can expect in the upcoming Dead Men Tell No Tales TPB.

MP: The Shadowline releases of The Surreal Adventures of Edgar Allan Poo and Archibald Saves Christmas have been well received by comic fans. With your recent success, was coming back to work on DMTNT something you always had in mind or were you approached for a 2nd volume?

DM: I actually finished writing Dead Men: Decimation in July of 2006 after being approached by Sean about a sequel. To be quite honest, this is something I wanted to see happen much sooner. I love the “Dead Men Universe” and would really like to expand it. Whether that happens or not is entirely up to Mr. Sean O’Reilly.

MP: Speaking of the next installment how is Dead Men: Decimation coming along? What can you tell us about it?

DM: To my knowledge, we are in need of an inker to finish issues 2 and 3. The pencils for all three issues are complete and–I believe–the entire first issue is inked.

I can tell you that Dead Men: Decimation takes place in present times. Blackbeard and every other undead pirate have been chasing the Holy Grail since we last saw them and this volume brings that great chase into present times and finally brings an end to the curse once and for all.

MP: I hear there is also a DMTNT tpb that collects volume 1 in the works. Is there any extra pirate booty in this treasure chest of zombie goodness?

DM: Yes! In fact, it will be in June’s Previews… finally. [laughs]

There are some extra goodies, sure. We’ve been able to include more pin-ups, pirate prose goodness, and a forward by B. Clay Moore. The graphic novel itself is absolutely gorgeous! When you see it, you’re really going to flip. I’m extremely happy with the complete package.

MP: You also contributed a story to the Grunts tpb. How did that come about?

DM: Actually, I was approached by my buddy Shannon Denton who asked me if I’d write a short for the trade. Of course, I said I’d love to. I wrote a story entitled “The Absent Signature” that I believe turned out extremely well. I guess you can see if you agree with me after you read the trade.

MP: What other projects do you have coming down the pipeline?

DM: Next up for me is the Viper Comics graphic novel Kid Houdini and the Silver Dollar Misfits and a story in Image’s Popgun anthology in July, followed by The Surreal Adventures of Edgar Allan Poo Book 2 and the Dead Men trade in August. Last but not least, my sci-fi epic M-THEORY will follow in September, October and November. I have several other projects in production, but none that I can speak of at the moment. Gawd… I hate saying that.

MP: Before we go, is there anything else you would like to say?

DM: Yes. Please buy the Dead Men trade. It’s been two years in the making and I truly hope everyone will buy a copy for your personal libraries and to give to family and friends. Also, if you’d like to see more stories from the Dead Men universe, please let Sean O’Reilly know about it. You can accomplish this by posting on the Arcana forum. Decimation will bring an end to the story, but there is so very much that takes place between these storylines that I’d love to flesh out.

Thanks for the interview, Mark! It’s always a pleasure to talk with you.

I decided to get this month’s edition out a little early so fans will have plenty of time to make their Free Comic Book Day plans. Speaking of which…

Arcana Unleashes Free Comic Book Day Plans For ‘08

Free Comic Book Day is this coming Saturday, May 3rd and Arcana is getting in on the action. It is the day when participating comic book shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their store. For their part, Arcana Studio is set to release Arcana Studio Presents.

Arcana Studio presents Kade, Wendigo, Burn and 100 Girls — four of Arcana’s iconic series — in one issue of all-new stories published just for Free Comic Book Day 2008! Kade, the enigmatic warrior who doesn’t feel, but always hurts! Wendigo, the little critter lost in the Canadian North! Burn, a prisoner in his own body! Sylvia, one of 100 Girls genetically created for the U.S. government! Arcana Studio Presents features four all-new stories of action, adventure and intrigue in the way that only Arcana can!

To coincide with Free Comic Book Day, Arcana will have several of their creators making special appearances at comic shops across the country. Among those scheduled to sign:

- Clockwork Girl and Kade creator: Sean O’Reilly will be at Golden Apple Comics in Los Angeles, CA from 12pm to 2pm promoting Kade: Shiva’s Sun, as well as the new Wendigo series from Arcana Kids!

- Dead Men Tell No Tales creator: Dwight MacPherson will be at Mountain Empire Comics in Johnson City, TN from 10am to 4pm promoting the upcoming Dead Men Tell No Tales tpb and Dead Men Decimation graphic novel.

- Gearhead creators: Dennis Hopeless and Kevin Mellon will be at Elite Comics in Overland Park, KS promoting the new Gearhead tpb collecting the smash hit original series that is currently optioned by Darius Films for motion picture development!

- Koni Waves creators: Mark Poulton, Stephen Sistilli, and Dexter Weeks will be at Stormwatch Comics in Berlin, NJ from 12pm to 4pm promoting the upcoming Koni Waves: Ghouls Gone Wild! graphic novel and the battle of the century Avengelyne vs. Koni Waves!

Aaron Nelson Talks Marlow

This month I got the chance to interview Aaron Nelson, who Arcana fans may remember from the Dark Horrors anthology. Well, Aaron has another ghoulish tale to tell in the form of Marlow. However, this zombie isn’t your average chud. I spoke with Aaron to get the lowdown.

MP: What can you tell us about Marlow?

AN: Thanks for asking. I suppose from a pretty high level, the story is about a man mutilated by technology who, upon meeting the Doctor who made him, discovers things about his mutilation (and his maker) that brings him to question the decisions he’s made in his life. In exchange for medicines that keep him from reverting to a zombie state, Marlow does all the dirty work for the pharmaceutical company that mutilated him out of fear of complete transformation. During this journey, where he meets the Doctor who made him, Marlow wonders if he must simply suffer the consequences of his mutilation and revert to a zombie state in order to truly be free.

MP: Who worked on the book with you?

AN: Dario Carrasco Jr and I have collaborated on a number of other projects, and worked closely together on the characters and story. Mathew Reynolds did some really incredible artwork, and L. Jamal Walton was, as always, brilliant with the layouts and lettering.

MP: Arcana fans may remember you from your work on the Dark Horrors anthology. Now, you are working on a book about a zombie with Marlow. Is horror a favorite genre of yours?

AN: I think the operative word there is _may_. (Laughs) I don’t know if I’d say horror is my favorite genre, but I’ve certainly found it to be a genre that readily presents moral, philosophical, and theological issues to the reader. When I began working on Marlow, I wanted to comment not only on issues like globalization, and human experimentation, but also on more engrossing issues like The War on Terror. So, while I was writing Marlow, I was also reading Joseph Conrad’s “The Heart of Darkness” very closely, because I found his concerns about 19th century colonization and exploitation of Africa to be, at the very least, “in line” with the concerns we have about globalization and The War on Terror. Conrad’s big idea (at least from my reading of it) is that perhaps it’s not the dark, undressed people of Africa who are the brutes, but rather the white, well-heeled Europeans. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’ve always found the Bush Doctrine counter-claim that “America’s the terrorist” to be pretty simplistic and, well, wrong. However, I do think there’s something deeper to be said about us using violence to end violence. Perhaps by fighting al-Qaeda, we’ve, in a sense, “validated” their jihad to them. Perhaps by just glancing at them, we’ve given them a stature they truly don’t deserve.

It’s funny, but, while I was writing Marlow, I was also writing an essay called “Simulating Terror” for an anthology called “Jack Bauer for President: Terrorism and Politics in 24″ (now in bookstores!). It occurred to me that the Bush Doctrine and al-Qaeda agree on one thing: that al-Qaeda can, somehow, destroy America. Osama thinks he can destroy us, and so does Bush. Which is why we’ve taken such a massive action against them. For the Bush Administration, we’re fighting not just for our lives, but for our very way of life. I think that’s a questionable assumption to make.

So, in any case, instead of writing a story that says something bold and simplistic like, “We’re the terrorists”, I decided to write a story that questions whether or not suffering is a part of freedom, and whether or not avoiding suffering can, actually, lead to a life of enslavement.

So, yeah, I like horror. (Laughs)

MP: Is Marlow your typical zombie, ie. Does he eat brains, crave human flesh, hang out at shopping malls?

AN: He’s more of a meso-zombie. He’s on that razor thin line of being human and being a zombie, since he takes medication to prevent him from reverting to a zombie state. His “inner-zombie” is always ready to surface, and he struggles to keep it in check. As for his after-hours inclinations, he’s more inclined to hang out at a dive bar instead of the mall’s T.G.I. Friday’s.

MP: Do you have any plans for Marlow after the graphic novel?

AN: I’m pretty focused on the graphic novel right now. However, if McDonalds wants to create a zombie Happy Meal, that’s cool with me.

MP: Any last words for fans?

AN: Yeah. Marlow really isn’t for everyone. It’s brooding.. dark.. you know.. it’s a horror comic. But, if you’re interested in globalization, the War on Terror, philosophy, post-modernism, that sort of thing, definitely check it out. I hope you enjoy it.

Step Behind the Velvet Rope With Arcana

Arcana Comics announces it’s new horror anthology, Velvet Rope, is now accepting short story submissions. Velvet Rope will be a 64 page, full color, horror anthology scheduled for a Halloween release. Stories will be between 5 to 10 pages long and hosted by the beautiful usher from beyond the grave, Velvet.

Submissions should be in full color and have a horror theme to them. Those interested in submitting stories for consideration should send 3 completed pages (meaning full pencils, inks, colors, and lettered), as well as a story synopsis and expected length of story to Mark Poulton at markepoulton@aol.com. Those whose work Arcana would like to see more of, will be contacted with further instructions.

Wizard World Philadelphia

Wizard World Philadelphia is May 30th to June 1st at the Philadelphia Convention Center. Arcana creators Frank LaPerch and Ash Jackson from Eve: Vampire Diva will be in artist alley, as will the Koni Waves creators: Mark Poulton, Stephen Sistilli, and Dexter Weeks who will be joined by the artist if the upcoming Koni Confidential oneshot Mathew Tow.

For more information on Wizard World Philadelphia, please visit www.wizardworld.com

In This Months Previews

Books in this month’s Previews have an expected release date of July.

Burn #3 (of 6) Burn, a boy fused with a mecha, continues his struggle to find understanding in the madness that is his world. Could the answer come in the innocence of a young orphan girl? And enter the Bikers… Diamond code: MAY08 3594 $2.99

Helen Killer #4 (of 4) Diamond code: MAY08 3595 $2.99

Tales of Penance: Trial of the Century #1 (of 4) Lt. LJ McCloud is assigned to a powder keg case when she has to investigate the homicide of a costumed criminal perpetrated by a masked superhero named Penance. As she begins the investigation, the media circus surrounding the case could leave the city of Atlanta and the entire south hanging in the balance, especially when a mob of vigilantes come seeking vengeance at the police station. Featuring a stunning cover by Greg Horn! Diamond code: MAY08 3596 $3.95

Wingman #1 (of 3) Diamond code: MAY08 3597 $3.95

It’s April and the New York Comic Con is right around the corner. Arcana Comics will be set up and sharing a booth with Platinum Studio. Be sure to stop by and say hello. We’ll be booth #1757. Scheduled to appear are the creators of Kade, Koni Waves, Eve: Vampire Diva, Gearhead, and many more!

Camilla d’Errico Interview

I recently had the chance to chat with the creator/artist of the new manga-influenced Arcana series, Burn, Camilla d’Errico. Fans may know her from her work on Avril Lavigne’s Make 5 Wishes. Now, readers can get the chance to find out the latest about her first creator owned project.

MP: Most comic fans probably know you best for Avril Lavigne’s Make 5 wishes. How did that project come about?

C: The Avril project was produced by House of Parlance, a local Vancouver publishing company, we connected at one of the Vancouver Comic Cons where I was displaying in the artist tables. They really enjoyed my self published book “The Fallen” and saw the potential of collaborating with me on a manga for Avril Lavigne. I was really fortunate to have co-created the story with Joshua Dysart, we had a lot of control over the context of the story, which is really important to me because I base a lot of my creativity on the depth of the characters and plot. The entire project was a whirlwind production once Random House decided to publish it in conjunction with Avril’s newest album release. It was the most intense project I’ve worked on to date!

MP: What other projects have you worked on?

C: I’ve worked on several titles, my most recent work has been with Slave Labour Graphics, working with Serena Valentino on her title “Nightmares and Fairytales”. This to me was a wonderful experience, since the beginning of the series I was a huge fan of Serena’s and of the story, so it was really incredible for me to continue the series and actually conclude the series with my issues.

Another project that I have done has been “Tanpopo” another creator owned series that I started. This book was initially a self published art piece, that was inspired by the German play FAUST. The book has been picked up by OSO and will be re-printed with more pages and more content to flesh out the story into an ongoing series. I’m so excited because OSO plans to publish the book in Asia as well as North America.

Currently I am working with a video game company to develop a Nintendo DS video game. Big Sandwich Studios is producing the game we will be starting the manga version of the game this year. Details are very hush hush, so I can’t give out too many details yet.

MP: Your artwork is very manga inspired. Did you grow up reading manga? How did you develop your style?

C: I actually didn’t grow up reading manga, I grew up reading North American comics, my favourites were Witchblade and The Darkness. Manga didn’t really hit me until I was out of high school. I remember watching a lot of anime, like Sailor Moon and Astro Boy but I didn’t make the connection to comics until later on. Once I finished the mini series “Zevon-7” I toke a year off of comics to really develop my manga style. I wanted to be as authentic as I could, but also use my European influence into the work. I constantly push my style to be as Japanese as I can, but still maintain my own style within that look.

MP: You have a new 6 issue mini-series coming out through Arcana called Camilla d’Errico’s Burn. How did this project come to Arcana and what can you tell us about the series?

C: My first creator owned mini series that will be coming out in May 2008! It’s a six issue series that is completely manga inspired, it has everything I can think of for manga fans. It has mecha, angst, tragedy, comedy and some really big robots.

I first started the series years ago while I was still in college, so its been a work of passion for me for quite some time. I remember conceptualizing the series, and really wanting to create a story that would appeal to a wide audience and deliver a very real and emotional story as well. The main character is Burn a 13 year old oby, and he’s a very tragic character. His world is chattered, his body is destroyed and everything that was his is now gone. The idea of essentially being trapped in your own body, unable to even have the simple control of your own flesh, to me was something that I thought would make this series stand out on an emotional level and add another layer to the story.

I can’t wait for people to read the series and enjoy the visuals as well as enjoy the emotions of the characters and the sheer angst of the story.

MP: Do you have any plans for Burn beyond the mini-series?

C: Originally yes. I had wanted the series to be broken up into two, six issue mini series. I like how it concludes, but to me the story has more potential and if I can, I’d love to see it go beyond just these six issues and follow the original path I set out.

MP: What advice do you have for young artists trying to make it comics?

C: Comics are a tough business; you have to have passion and dedication. It’s important to listen to critiques and not take it personally when people comment on your work, but rather to constantly improve. Talk to as many editors as you can, go to portfolio reviews, get advice, and don’t make excuses for yourself or your work, but instead learn from your art. Every drawing you do will surpass the last, so constantly draw and go for it!

MP: Before we wrap this up, do you have any projects or appearances you would like to mention?

C: Yes! I’d love to plug my new Dark Horse Stationary set that is coming out, its my first time working with DH and I’m really excited about this colab. I have a toy in the new BAXBEAR line, check it out at www.baxbear.com. Also, I have lots of new things coming out, so check out my website www.camilladerrico.com and watch for updates because I’m gearing up for a lot of new things this year! Thanks! Camilla

New Forums Are Up!

Wanna talk to Camilla about Burn? Now’s your chance! The Arcana message board has recently been updated with new forums for titles like Burn, Eve: Vampire Diva, Banzai Girls, Helen Killer, Corrective Measures, and Mwumba. Please stop for a chance to talk to the creators involved in these exciting new projects.

In This Month’s Previews

Burn #2 – Now that Burn’s world has collapsed, he finds himself a walking machine, a living genetic abomination. Burn’s reality exists now only in his mind, imprisoned in his own subconscious, struggling to find answers. The mechanical monster, Shoftiel, controls the body like a puppet master, marching the boy across the dessert towards a new city. Intent on finishing his mission, nothing will halt Shoftiel’s march. 24 pgs, B&W (2 of 6) $2.99 Diamond code: APR08 3547

Dragon’s Lair HC – Travel to a time of Sword and Sorcery; a time of Dragons and Damsels in distress! Follow Dirk the Daring and Princess Daphne as they return from an astonishing adventure in the Free Realms only to be attacked by the great dragon, Singe, and his evil minions. Singe vows revenge against Dirk for killing his offspring, and Daphne is soon caught in the dread dragon’s claws. Now, armed with his courage and skill, Dirk must brave the Dark Kingdom and all its evils in order to save the Princess from Singe! Contains never before seen artwork and sketches from Don Bluth! HC, 7×10 164 pgs, FC $19.95 Diamond code: APR08 3548

Helen Killer #3 – Having failed to prevent the assassination of President McKinley, Helen Keller has been forced out of the Secret Service. Determined to redeem herself, she sets out to bring the architects of the conspiracy to justice. But as Helen closes in on her enemies, the dark forces unleashed by the Omnicle close in on her! 28 pgs, B&W (3 of 4) $2.99 Diamond code: APR08 3549

Kade Box Set – The enigmatic warrior that doesn’t feel, but always hurts. During the Black Sun, under the Eye of God, angels may fall to Earth. These Fallen Angels have left the grace of God and act without consequence. Many try to spite their Creator by possessing the anemic spirits of those who are morally corrupt, using them as their demonic servants. As a Child of the Black Sun, Kade is the ageless balance that tips the dark scale back towards the light, as he hunts the demons and The Fallen. Set includes Kade’s first appearance in Kade: Identity, Kade: Sun of Perdition #1-4, and a Greg Horn Kade: Shiva’s Sun poster, all wrapped in a high-end Greg Horn box! Set, FC $16.95 Diamond code: APR08 3550

Wendigo #2 – Tanu is a sasquatch lost in the Canadian wilderness who must face the Fearsome Creatures in order to find the clues that will lead him to his mother. Tanu has recently partnered up with a splintercat and together they must save Tanu’s mother from the hunters. An all-ages book from Arcana Kids! 32 pgs, FC (2 of 4) $1.99 Diamond code: APR08 3551

Interview With Arcana’s #1 Fan – Jimmy DaSilva

This month I decided to change things up a bit and instead of interviewing an Arcana creator, I decided to interview an Arcana fan. However, this is no ordinary fan. This is Arcana’s #1 fan. People on the forum will recognize him as Clasp99, but now they will get a chance to know Jimmy DaSilva.

MP: With so many choices to choose from and the market dominance of Marvel and DC, how did Arcana Comics become your favorite comic book company?

JD: Arcana became by favorite comic company because of all the great titles it has been producing. I have been collecting Arcana comics pretty much right from beginning. I got into Arcana comics in kind of weird way. A couple years back I was heading out to Pittsburgh for a week on a business trip and wanted to bring some reading material to keep me occupied. I decided to stop by a local comic shop that had just opened in the mall near me, New Moon Comics. I hadn’t collected comics in about 10 years because of a bad experience I had as a teenager with my local comic shop. I picked up a couple titles to see what was going on in comics today. I remember picking up Ultimate X-men, Batman, Superman, Spawn, and a comic called ANT issue #1. It just leapt off of the shelves when I was checking out the independent titles. I really enjoyed all the comics I picked up but of all the titles ANT was by far my favorite. The next time I stopped in to New Moon I went immediately to the indy shelves. There were a couple more titles that looked interesting and happened to also be from Arcana, Kade and Ezra. From that point I was pretty much hooked. After reading Kade and Ezra I remember going to the Arcana Website and seeing if there were any other titles that were out that I my comic shop didn’t have or if there were any other issues I could get. I ordered 1 of everything that was available for purchase.

MP: What was your first Arcana book?

JD: Like I said the very first Arcana book I bought was ANT #1 but Kade and Ezra were very close behind.

MP: What are some of your favorite Arcana titles?

JD: It is hard to narrow it down. I can honestly say that there hasn’t been a title that I haven’t enjoyed. Each one has its own good points. At the top of my list are Koni Waves, Kade, Eve, Ezra, 100 Girls, and Shadowflame.

MP: At last year’s NYCC, Sean O’Reilly commented about your collection of rare Arcana comics, specifically your original Kade without the Arcana logo. What other rare Arcana comics do you own?

JD: I have a version of Kade #1a that was only available through the Arcana website. The cover has an error in which Kade was accidentally drawn without his trademark tattoo. I also have blank sketch covers for 100 Girls #1, Ant #1, and American Wasteland #1.

A couple copies of the Koni Waves/Demonslayer #1 retailer cover with a head sketch by Mark Poulton. I don’t know if you would consider this rare or unique but I have a test copy of the yet unprinted El Arsenal: Teibolera story. A JGM Variant to Shadowflame #1 limited to only 50 copies. Some CGC’d copies of Ant, Ezra, Sundown: Arizona and Kade. But the jewel of my Arcana collection is my copy of the Koni Waves/Demonslayer #1 Museum Edition one of only 25 copies (Possibly even less).

I have almost a complete collection of everything that has been released from Arcana. I am only missing a couple variant covers to Ezra, Kade, Ant, and Gearhead. What I would really love to add to my collection is copies of the props of the Green Spirit Arcana did for the episode of Psyche on the USA Network they helped out with. If anyone has or knows where I can get a copy feel free to PM me the info (clasp99 on the forums)

MP: You also collect original artwork. What are some Arcana pieces you own?

JD: My first original art from Arcana was the retailer cover to the Koni Waves/Demonslayer #1 by Mark Poulton which I pick up at NYCC 2007. Since then I have picked up a couple other nice pieces. Here is a list of everything I have:

The cover art to American Wasteland #2 by Mark Kidwell
A page from Ant issue #2 by Mario Gully
2 pages from Gearhead #2 Kevin Mellon
The Wizard World Chicago Variant cover art to the Koni Waves/Demonslayer #1 by Marat Mychaels
The Retailer Variant cover art to the Koni Waves/Demonslayer #1 by Mark Poulton
2 pages from Shadowflame #1 by Joe Martino
2 pages from Shadowflame #2 by Joe Martino

I also have some commissions that were done for me. Marat Mychaels did a nice piece of Battlestone from Brigade and Koni hanging out at a bar in Hawaii. Ash Jackson did an awesome page of Eve, Koni, and Jinky in action together.

And some sketches that were done in my sketchbook by joe Martino, Mark Poulton, Dexter Weeks, Peter Palmiotti, and Steve Sistilli and Sketch on my Captain America: Fallen Son Blank cover by Mark Poulton, Dexter Week, and Steve Sistilli. Dexter Weeks did a sick sketch of Koni, Red Skull and Captain America for me.

MP: Your Banzai Girl, Eve, Koni commission inspired the creators of Eve and Koni to team-up and plan an upcoming oneshot where both of their characters origins will be linked. How does that make you feel to know you inspired a comic book like that? Also, what other Arcana dream team-ups would you like to see?

JD: I was really excited to hear that Mark and Frank liked the idea of Eve and Koni teaming up. These are two of my favorite characters and it seemed to me like a team up would be so natural. It is going to be cool to see Koni working with a vampire in stead of against one. If it wasn’t obvious by my commission, I would love to see Jinky, Koni, and Eve team up. But I would also like to see Kade and Eve meet, I wonder what would happen if those two crossed paths, Sylvia meet the heroes from Philly, or Koni meet Ezra.

MP: Do you plan on attending any of the upcoming con appearances by Arcana or their creators?

JD: With work and my ever growing family it has been hard to make it to many if any con’s but I always try to make it to at least NYCC. I am really looking forward to it this year since so many of the people from Arcana are going to be there.

MP: What would you like to see in the future from Arcana Comics/Studio?

JD: I have really been enjoying Clockwork Girl from the all ages line. I would like to see more titles in this line that I could read to my kids. It would really great to see Koni, Kade, Eve, etc in an all ages format. I know there has been talk across the internet about it but I would really like to see some of the Arcana titles be made into movies or TV series. As soon as I heard Gearhead was optioned I thought, what a great choice for a movie, Dennis Hopeless’s story was great and would translate easily to the big screen. But any of the titles could easily be made in to a cartoon series. The one thing I would REALLY like to see is the return of Ezra. I hope she isn’t dead forever. I will continue to spread the good word of Arcana and I wish everyone the best of luck.

New York Comic Con

 The east coast’s biggest comic con is just a month away and Arcana Comics will be there in full effect. Arcana Comics is teaming up with Platinum Studio this year at booth #1757. Creators scheduled to appear are Kade’s Sean O’Reilly, Mark Poulton, Stephen Sistilli, and Dexter Weeks from Koni Waves, Marvel Comics’ Cable and Making Waves 2: The Art of Koni Waves cover artist Mike Capprotti, Eve: Vampire Diva’s Frank LaPerch, and many more. The convention runs from April 18th through the 20th. Please visit the cons’ official website for more details:

http://www.nycomiccon.com/

New York Comic Con Exclusive – Avengelyne vs. Koni Waves Boxing Poster

Let’ s get ready to rumble! Designed to look like a vintage boxing poster this piece of art showcases two lovely ladies battling it out for the Indie Comic Queen Crown. Measuring 11″ x 17″ and limited to 500 copies, this is a must have for any fan of Avengelyne or Koni Waves. Available at the Arcana/Platinum Studio Booth (1757) for $5.

Paperback Reader Reviews Eve: Vampire Diva #4

Paperback Reader, the comic book review website, has just written a glowing review for the final issue of Eve: Vampire Diva. Head over to their website and sink your teeth into it:

http://www.paperbackreader.com/review.php?ReviewID=2168

Learn From the Pros

Learn how to create comics from the pros with the Rough Sketch Studio comic courses. Koni Waves artists, Stephen Sistilli and Dexter Weeks, are offering two separate non credited courses with one on one instruction in a real studio environment. The first course is 8 five hour sessions with drawing, inking, page layout, and storytelling. The second course is an additional 8 five hour sessions dealing with coloring, lettering, and portfolio presentation. Each course costs $250 and all students will receive one 24 sheet comic drawing boards, a set of inking pens, and a comic art portfolio. Stephen and Dexter have over 35 years of combined experience in illustration, graphic arts, and computer work. For more information please call (856) 317-1771 or email at roughsketch@comcast.net. Start being a comic book pro today!

In This Month’s Previews

The Clockwork Girl TPB by Sean O’Reilly, Kevin Hanna, & Grant Bond – Experiencing life and love for the first time Huxley and Tesla have formed a unique and inseparable bond. But preventing their happiness, and their love, the two mad scientists wage a vicious war against each other where the Clockwork Girl and the Mutant Boy are bystanders caught in the middle! HC, 110 pgs, FC $14.95

Burn #1 by Camilla d’Errico & Scott Sanders – Welcome to a world where humans and mecha co-exist. What was once thought to be a symbiotic relationship between humans and machines has turned into a full-scale war due to rising resentment by their human creators. In one of the towns, a 13-year-old boy named Burn will find out the true meaning of horror. The arrival of the sentient Shoftiel, a machine programmed to destroy mankind, will forever link the two in a battle of fates. One action, one desperate act of self-preservation will forever change the fate of man and machine. 24 pgs, B&W (1 of 6) $.99

Helen Killer #2 by Andrew Kreisberg & Matthew JLD Rice - Secret Service agent Helen Keller, with the aid of a device which has restored her lost senses, and her partner Jonah Blaylock have traveled to the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo to protect President McKinley from Anarchists. As Helen learns to master her new powers, the assassin is moving into position. 28 pgs, FC (2 of 4) $2.99

Recently, I was fortunate enough to interview venture capitalist and upcoming Arcana creator, Sean Wise. Sean’s new series, Penance: Trial of the Century, will debut later this year. 

MP: Hi Sean, for those unfamiliar with venture capital, what exactly does it entail? 

SW: Venture Capital is a type of financing geared for high growth startups. We search for companies that may one day become eBay, Facebook or Google, we give them millions of dollars in return for a piece of their upside. In my case, I do it through a portal called VenCorps (www.VenCorps.com). Whose name was inspired by a certain galaxy wide police force. 

MP: You also mentor the great CEOS of tomorrow with your entrepreneurial boot camps. What can one expect from your course and can you share with us the success stories? 

SW: The Bootcamp is a half day intense training course for founders of high tech high growth startups.  Mostly those looking for funding for the their business.  To date, I’ve done approximately 111 Bootcamps over the last 10 years. The entrepreneurs I’ve mentored have gone on to raise more than $2Billion in Capital. So I’d consider that success. MP: What do you enjoy more: working on your own ventures or passing along your knowledge to others? 

Once again it’s time for our monthly Arcana newsletter. I’m kind of changing the format a bit this month. There’s no interview, but there’s plenty of news to hold you over until March. So without further ado, let’s begin…

Arcana Creators Signing at New Moon Comics!

Several Arcana creators will be on hand this Saturday, February 23rd, as New Moon Comics celebrates their grand re-opening at their new location in Little Falls, NJ. Scheduled to appear are Mark Poulton, Stephen Sistilli, and Dexter Weeks from Koni Waves, Frank LaPerch from Eve: Vampire Diva, and Joe Martino from Shadowflame. For more information on this event visit New Moon Comics at www.newmooncomics.com

New Moon Comics
463 Main Street 1R
Little Falls, NJ 07424-1150
(973) 81-COMIC

How To Create A Comic Book

The Koni Waves creative team was recently invited to film an instructional video with Expert Village, the world’s leading how to video site on the basics of creating your own comic book. Hosted by Koni Waves writer, Mark Poulton, the video goes into writing, penciling, inking, coloring, lettering, and much more. Included in the video are demonstrations on penciling and inking by Stephen Sistilli and a coloring and lettering tutorial by Dexter Weeks. Keep a look out for this video on www.koniwaves.com coming soon!

Yin Yang Trailer

Speaking of videos, the crew behind the soon to be smash hit Yin Yang graphic novel have completed a video trailer for their upcoming release. You can view it here:

http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=d41966eb7a9937585db8b&skin_id=0&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Eagle Awards

It’s that time of year again, as the nomination process begins for this year’s Eagle Awards. Don’t forget to show support for your favorite Arcana creators and vote. If you need some help making up your mind, remember Frank LaPerch for Favorite Newcomer Writer, Ash Jackson for Favorite Newcomer Artist, Sean O’Reilly for Favorite Comics, and Stephen Sistilli for Favorite Artist: Fully-Painted Artwork. To vote for this year’s nominations, please visit the Eagle Awards at:

http://www.eagleawards.co.uk/nominate.asp

Let’s Get Ready To Rumble

The creative team behind the upcoming Avengelyne vs. Koni Waves oneshot recently released this piece of promotional artwork. It’s a vintage Avenelyne vs. Koni Waves boxing poster. Prints of this poster will be available at the New York Comic Con in April where creators of both characters will be on hand. The Koni Waves guys will be signing at the Arcana booth all weekend long and Avengelyne creator, Rob Liefeld, will be manning his Arcade Comics booth. Pick up a copy of the print and make sure to get them all to sign it!

In This Month’s Previews

Gearhead TPB by Hopeless, Mellon, and Herrera – Shelby Cooper lives just outside a world of spandex politicians and electric cars, but to hell with them and their world. She’s a hot chick with a hotrod. She drives fast, talks trash and hurts people with a big-ass wrench. What does any of that have to do with super powers? On a mission to find her brother and in search of the destiny she never knew she had, Shelby’s life is about to get interesting. Like her father before her, Shelby is Gearhead! SC, 100 pgs. FC $14.95

Helen Killer #1 by Kreisberg and Rice – In 1901, twenty-one year old college student Helen Keller, with the aid of a fantastical device invented by her friend and mentor, Alexander Graham Bell, regains her sight and hearing as well as near super-human strength and agility. Helen is enlisted by the Secret Service to protect President William McKinley who has been targeted for assassination by Anarchists. As a deeper conspiracy to destroy America unfolds around her, Helen discovers that her new abilities come with a dark and terrifying price! 28 pgs, FC (1 of 4) $2.99

Kade: Shiva’s Sun #4 by O’Reilly, Niklovitch, and Hilinkski – The epic journey of the gothic demon hunter concludes in Kade: Shiva’s Sun. The relationship between the Fallen and Kali is revealed to Kade and the demon hunter will never be the same! Alex Niklovitch provides his unique writing insights defining the historical world that Kade is traveling and Stjepan Sejic graces the book with his painted style. This is the issue you can’t miss! Look out for Ashok Bhadana’s variant cover! 32 pgs, FC (4 of 4) $3.95

Wendigo #1 by O’Reilly and Del Gado – An all-ages title from Arcana Kids! Tanu is a sasquatch lost I the Canadian wilderness who must face the Fearsome Creatures in order to find the clues that will lead him to his mother. Using his agility, speed, jumping ability and a mean snow-ball throwing arm, the young sasquatch must find his way back home facing the most fearsome mythological creatures ever whispered about in the wild wilderness. 24 pgs, FC (1 of 4) $.99