SIRENS OF THE CITY #1 SELLS OUT & RETURNS WITH SECOND PRINTING

Posted on 07/13/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

BOOM! Studios Presents a New Series from Joanne Starer and Khary Randolph in August 2023

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 12, 2023) – BOOM! Studios revealed today that SIRENS OF THE CITY #1, the extra-length premier issue of the new gritty six-issue urban fantasy from the superstar creative team of writer Joanne Starer (Painkiller Jane), artist Khary Randolph (Excellence), and letterer AndWorld Design, has sold out at the distributor level!

New York City. 1980s.

Runaway teen Layla struggles to survive the mean streets, far from home. Meanwhile, every supernatural creature–from sirens to incubi–descend upon the city…all in vying for control of Layla and the pregnancy she never wanted.

In response to the overwhelming support from retailers and fans, BOOM! Studios has announced SIRENS OF THE CITY #1 SECOND PRINTING, featuring brand new cover art by series artist Khary Randolph, available in stores August 9, 2023.

“Heed the siren’s call once again!” said Filip Sablik, President, Publishing & Sales, BOOM! Studios. “Joanne Starer, Khary Randolph, and AndWorld Design took us to the mean streets of SIRENS OF THE CITY in a powerful story that is both timeless and incredibly topical. We can’t wait for even more readers and fans to discover and root for Layla!”

SIRENS OF THE CITY is the newest release from BOOM! Studios’ eponymous imprint, home to critically acclaimed original series, including BRZRKR by Keanu Reeves, Matt Kindt, and Ron Garney; Something is Killing the Children by James Tynion IV and Werther Dell’Edera; Once & Future by Kieron Gillen and Dan Mora; Wynd by James Tynion IV and Michael Dialynas; Grim by Stephanie Phillips and Flaviano; Briar by Christopher Cantwell and Germán García; Stuff of Nightmares by R.L. Stine and A.L. Kaplan; The Approach by Jeremy Haun, Jason A. Hurley, and Jesus Hervas; Damn Them All by Simon Spurrier and Charlie Adlard; Behold, Behemoth by Tate Brombal and Nick Robles; Once Upon a Time at the End of the World by Jason Aaron, Alexandre Tefenkgi, Leila del Duca, and Nick Dragotta; Know Your Station by Sarah Gailey and Liana Kangas; A Vicious Circle by Mattson Tomlin and Lee Bermejo; Mosely by Rob Guillory and Sam Lotfi; Harrower by Justin Jordan and Brahm Revel; The Neighbors by Jude Ellison S. Doyle and Letizia Cadonici; The Seasons Have Teeth by Dan Watters and Sebastián Cabrol; and Ghostlore by Cullen Bunn and Leomacs. The imprint also publishes popular licensed properties, including Dune: House Harkonnen from Brian Herbert, Kevin J. Anderson, and Michael Shelfer; Mighty Morphin Power Rangers from Melissa Flores and Simona Di Gianfelice; Magic from Jed McKay, Rich Douek, and Ig Guara; and The Expanse: Dragon Tooth by Andy Diggle and Rubine.

SIRENS OF THE CITY #1 FIRST PRINTING may be available in comic shops on July 12, 2023. It is available for pre-order at your local comic shop. Digital copies can be purchased from content providers, including comiXology, iBooks, Google Play, and Kindle. 

For continuing news on SIRENS OF THE CITY and more from BOOM! Studios, stay tuned to boom-studios.com and follow @boomstudios on Twitter.

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Oni Press Presents The Annual CBLDF Welcome Party & Art Auction 2023 

Posted on 07/12/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Annual Fundraising Event to Begin FIGHT CENSORSHIP, READ COMICS! Initiative, Featuring New Works by Maia Kobabe, Matt Kindt, and Gabriel Bá & Fábio Moon

In partnership with the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF), Oni Press – the multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-winning comic book publisher – is proud to announce its sponsorship of this year’s annual CBLDF Welcome Party & Art Auction on Thursday, July 20th at The Westgate Hotel in San Diego, CA.

In tandem with the annual fundraising event that draws hundreds of comics industry creators, publishers, educators, and advocates each year, Oni Press will be using the occasion to debut a new initiative in support of the CBLDF entitled FIGHT CENSORSHIP, READ COMICS! and unveil several new pieces of artwork commissioned specifically for the new initiative from an array of prominent artists and featuring the graphic design of award-winning, London-based designer Tom Muller (House of X), including:

Alex Award Winner

MAIA KOBABE

(Gender Queer)

Eisner & Harvey Award Nominee

MATT KINDT

(Mind MGMT, BRZRKR)

Eisner Award Winners

GABRIEL BÁ & FÁBIO MOON

(Daytripper)

Free for CBLDF members and the general public with a suggested voluntary donation at the door to support the CBLDF’s ongoing work in supporting the cause of free speech and creative expression, the annual party will be hosted at The Westgate Hotel’s Terrace Under the Stars from 8 pm to 12 midnight PT. (An SDCC badge is NOT required to attend.) On behalf of Oni Press, the first 50 attendees will receive a free “Secret Edition” variant cover of the latest issue of the publisher’s science-fiction anthology, XINO #2, featuring artwork by rising star Nick Cagnetti (Pink Lemonade); while the first 200 will receive a free FIGHT CENSORSHIP, READ COMICS! two-piece button set:

XINO #2 “Secret Edition” Variant

Cover Art by Nick Cagnetti

Free for the First 50 Attendees!

FIGHT CENSORSHIP, READ COMICS! Button Set

Logo Design by Tom Muller

Free for the First 200 Attendees!

The evening’s festivities will also feature the return of the CBLDF’s annual San Diego Comic-Con Silent Art Auction, featuring comic art and other collectibles donated by a wide array of supporting contributors from the worlds of comics, video games, and entertainment:

ABRAMS COMICARTS | BECKY CLOONAN | DARK HORSE COMICS | DEVOLVER DIGITAL & GOOD SHEPHERD | DSTLRY | DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT | JUSTIN GREENWOOD | IDW ENTERTAINMENT | MARIA WOLF LOPEZ | ONI PRESS | VALHALLA ENTERTAINMENT

During the evening’s events, Oni Press will also be offering 50 signed copies of the GENDER QUEER: DELUXE EDITION hardcover with a bookplate signature by creator Maia Kobabe with all funds benefiting the CBLDF. High-quality, 11×17″ prints of Kobabe’s FIGHT CENSORSHIP, READ COMICS! illustration will also be available at the Oni booth (#1829) through the week with a portion of all proceeds benefiting the CBLDF.

“Each day brings another reminder that we’re in the midst of a generational surge in challenges to comics nationwide, but thanks to the support of the entire comics community, we know we’re going to win,” said Jeff Trexler, Interim Director of the CBLDF. “All of us here at the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund are grateful to Oni Press for its generous sponsorship of this year’s CLBDF Welcome Party and Art Auction – and for its unwavering commitment to protecting freedom of expression through the comic arts!”

“Yet again, the comics industry finds itself battling an incessant wave of censorship dedicated to stifling creativity, marginalizing creators, and diminishing the impact of comics and graphic novels with the power to change minds and lives,” said Hunter Gorinson, Oni Press Publisher & President. “In 1954, in 1986, and again in our present moment, our medium has faced this same reckless compulsion many times – but now, more than ever, it’s vital that all corners of the global comics community come together to reject the impulse toward censorship that has risen up to target important works like GENDER QUEER and many dozens more. Thanks to the ardent support and unrelenting work of the CBLDF, we know it will not succeed.”

Oni Press’s support of the CBLDF’s signature San Diego event follows months of unprecedented legal challenges to graphic novels and other forms of comic art that have now spread through more than a dozen states. Maia Kobabe’s award-winning graphic memoir, Gender Queer, has been placed at the epicenter of many of these challenges at the state and local level and was previously the subject of a Virginia obscenity lawsuit, which was successfully defended by the CBLDF and ruled to be unconstitutional in 2022. Oni Press is proud to reciprocate the CBLDF’s support at this critical time in the history of free speech for the comics medium.

Posted in Art & Streetart, Comics, Conventions, Events & Expos, San Diego Comic Con 2023 | Comments Off on Oni Press Presents The Annual CBLDF Welcome Party & Art Auction 2023 

Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara sails this month

Posted on 07/12/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

The perfect tropical adventure for summer holidays

Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara is getting ready to hit PC (Steam) and consoles on July 27th. This colorful tribute to classic 3D platform games is the result of the joint effort of 3 Spanish studios: Chibig, Talpa Games and Undercoders. The game is priced at 19.99€/$ and will have a 15% discount on all platforms for the launch.

After the success of Summer in Mara (2020), Koa and Napopo sail again on this adventure through new islands where we can find countless treasures and we’ll meet again some familiar faces.

From magical temples to cranky volcanoes, we’ll gather a group of brave friends to chase down a group of mischievous pirates who have turned the city of Qälis upside down. We can’t let them do it!

Rebuild the city and get new outfits for Koa, help clean the waters of Mara to take care of its fauna and inhabitants and, above all, discover if you have a fearless little pirate inside you.

Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara has influences from games like Super Mario 3D World, Crash Bandicoot and even The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker; a sure bet for the nostalgic ones who grew up playing platformers and for those looking for a fun adventure for these summer vacations.

About Chibig
Chibig makes cozy and cute games for everyone, combining relaxing adventures settled in fantastical worlds full of wonder. Chibig started its universe in 2018 with Deiland, and kept expanding with Summer in Mara in 2020. More charming and compelling tales are about to be discovered with the upcoming projects of the studio: Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara, Mika and the Witch’s Mountain and Elusive People.
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Cartoon Network at SDCC 2023

Posted on 07/12/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Burbank, CA, July 6, 2023 – Adult Swim and Cartoon Network announced today a must-see San Diego Comic-Con lineup featuring top animated series. With a schedule that encompasses both kids’ and family entertainment and adult comedy, this year’s schedule will include panels for the Emmy®-winning global phenomenon “Rick and Morty,” new action-packed series “My Adventures with Superman,” the latest season of the adult animated comedy “Teenage Euthanasia,” as well as Cartoon Networks’ upcoming new show “Tiny Toons Looniversity.” Plus, Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment will also highlight the forthcoming releases of the highly anticipated animated films based on two of Adult Swim’s most beloved series: “The Venture Bros.: Radiant is the Blood of the Baboon Heart” and “Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar.”

Delving into each series, panels will bring exclusive first looks, behind-the-scenes insights, and interactive fun. Join the zany cast and crew of Cartoon Network’s “Tiny Toons Looniversity” for an exclusive screening and Q&A before flying to Metropolis for a behind-the-scenes look at Adult Swim’s newest series, “My Adventures with Superman.” Panels continue throughout the day with a look at season two of “Teenage Euthanasia,” the epic return of Dethklok in a “Metalocalypse: The Army of the Doomstar” preview panel, culminating in a 10th-anniversary celebration and season seven sneak peek of Adult Swim’s wildly popular series, “Rick and Morty.”

Additional Adult Swim and Cartoon Network events during San Diego Comic-Con include the Adult Swim Festival on the Green in San Diego and signings at the DC booth with the cast of “My Adventures with Superman.”

Thursday, July 20

“The Venture Bros.: Radiant is the Blood of the Baboon Heart”
8:30 p.m., Room 6BCF
Be among the first fans to experience the all-new original animated movie “The Venture Bros.: Radiant is the Blood of the Baboon Heart” with the world premiere screening! Afterwards, join filmmakers and cast for a panel discussion and audience Q&A. “The Venture Bros.: Radiant is the Blood of the Baboon Heart” will be available to own on Digital starting July 21 and on Blu-rayTM on July 25, 2023.

Friday, July 21

“Tiny Toons Looniversity” 
10:00 a.m., Indigo Ballroom
Congratulations, you’ve been accepted into ACME Looniversity! Join our esteemed panel of “Tiny Toons Looniversity” academics (aka cast and crew) as they take you on a “campus tour” of Cartoon Network’s newest entry into the Looniverse. Classes begin this fall, but panel attendees will be treated to a screening of the premiere episode! “Tiny Toons Looniversity” is produced by Amblin Television in association with Warner Bros. Animation.

“My Adventures with Superman”
11:00 a.m., Indigo Ballroom
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Superman like you’ve never seen him before! Watch a new episode of Adult Swim’s newest comedy adventure and join the heroic cast and crew of “My Adventures with Superman” as they discuss familiar friends and foes, plus what else we will see in season one and beyond. “My Adventures with Superman” is produced by Warner Bros. Animation.

“Teenage Euthanasia”
12:00 p.m., Indigo Ballroom 
Trophy might be dead, and stuck in Florida, but join the very much alive cast and crew in sunny San Diego as they look back at the apocalyptic near-future and share an exclusive look at the new season. “Teenage Euthanasia” season two premieres Wednesday, July 26 at Midnight on Adult Swim, next day on Max.

“Metalocalypse: The Army of the Doomstar”
1:00 p.m., Indigo Ballroom
Can the Metalocalypse be stopped? Join series co-creator Brendan Small and guests as they talk all things “Metalocalypse,” reveal footage from the forthcoming film, and discuss the forthcoming album “Dethalbum IV.” “Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar” will be available to own on Digital and Blu-rayTM starting August 22, 2023.

“Rick and Morty: 10th Anniversary”
2:00 p.m., Indigo Ballroom
It hasn’t been 100 years QUITE yet but join the cast and crew as they celebrate ten years of “Rick and Morty” adventures and family shenanigans! Plus, get a sneak peek at the upcoming seventh season!!

In addition is the Adult Swim Festival. A free and open public event but which needs now Sold-Out RSVPs, but get on the waiting list… I am sure it’ll still be a “if you’re there and there’s room” type thing.

Posted in Conventions, Events & Expos, San Diego Comic Con 2023, TV and Movies | Comments Off on Cartoon Network at SDCC 2023

Nerd Notes (7/12/23)

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Live Action Star Wars Clone Wars x Rebels:

How To with John Wilson:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDw6hGm7eUQ

This looks like a great twist on this genre:

A24 doesn’t miss:

Ferris Bueller grew up to be a multi millionaire legal drug dealer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24-YonhNS0Y

and now music… and eye candy.

Posted in Nerd Notes | Comments Off on Nerd Notes (7/12/23)

Road to SDCC: BOOM! Studios and The Jim Henson Company Partner to Bring a New Adaptation of LABYRINTH to Fans

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Fully funded and over funded in 15 minutes!

 BOOM! Direct Reserve Campaign Launches with a New Sequential Art Adaptation and Definitive Graphic Novel Collections Based on the Beloved Fantasy Film

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 11, 2023) – In the lead up to San Diego Comic-Con 2023, BOOM! Studios is launching its fourth BOOM! Direct Reserve Campaign of the year, celebrating the legacy of Jim Henson’s seminal and final feature film, Labyrinth, with the Complete Jim Henson’s LABYRINTH Graphic Novel Collection campaign on Kickstarter.

Following the successful The Dark Crystal 40th Anniversary Library campaign in 2022, BOOM! Studios is celebrating Labyrinth, Jim Henson’s visionary musical fantasy starring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly that has inspired and captivated audiences of all ages for nearly 40 years. Now, for the first time EVER, BOOM! Studios in partnership with The Jim Henson Company proudly presents the beloved original novelization by A.C.H. Smith adapted into a fully illustrated graphic novel featuring a brand new cover by fan favorite cover artist Miguel Mercado (Magic, Dune: House Atreides).

In addition to the new graphic novel adaptation, available in both hardcover and slipcased hardcover editions, BOOM! Studios is also offering all of its’ previously published LABYRINTH sequential stories in a pair of complete deluxe editions with COMPLETE LABYRINTH: CORONATION and COMPLETE LABYRINTH: BEYOND THE GOBLIN CITY.

Alongside the complete LABYRINTH Visual Library, including signed and BOOM! Elite editions, BOOM! Studios is offering a selection of highly limited LABYRINTH collectibles exclusively through the BOOM! Direct Reserve initiative. These collectibles include a replica of the original theatrical poster, a replica of one of The Crystals wielded by the Goblin King in the film, and, in partnership with Pinfinity, a hinged A/R enhanced jumbo enamel pin in three increasingly rare variations.

Finally, any fan who reserves a tier through this BOOM! Direct Reserve campaign in the first 24 hours will automatically receive an exclusive “Should You Need Us…” enamel pin as a Day One Bonus item!

“We all have an immense fondness for the works of Jim Henson at BOOM! Studios,” said President of Publishing & Marketing, Filip Sablik. “And without a doubt, one of his most beloved and seminal creations is Labyrinth. When our partners at The Jim Henson Company approached us with the opportunity to do something really special with it, we leapt at it. We hope every fan has as much fun as we did rediscovering Sarah Williams’ journey and encounter with Jareth, The Goblin King. Everything in this campaign is our love letter to that magical world.”

Complete Jim Henson’s LABYRINTH Graphic Novel Collection BOOM! Direct Reserve Campaign will continue for 30 days, with special surprises, product reveals, and hidden stretch goals to be announced all month long, including an exclusive Day One Bonus enamel pin available for the first 24 hours of the campaign.

For continuing news on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth and more from BOOM! Studios, stay tuned to boom-studios.com and follow @boomstudios on Twitter.

Posted in Books, Comics, Kickstarter | Comments Off on Road to SDCC: BOOM! Studios and The Jim Henson Company Partner to Bring a New Adaptation of LABYRINTH to Fans

IMAGE COMICS AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2023

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

PORTLAND, Ore. 07/11/2023 — Image Comics is pleased to return to San Diego this year for Comic-Con on Wednesday, July 19 through Sunday, July 23 at booth #1915.

Please note: updates to the schedule may appear online during the show. Please refer to www.imagecomics.com for the most up-to-date information.

LIMITED* CONVENTION VARIANTS SOLD AT THE IMAGE BOOTH (#1915):
*Quantities will be limited by customer and per day on a first-come, first-served basis. Please ask at the Image booth about availability.
  • Big Game #1 Convention Exclusive by Mark Millar & Pepe Larraz, cover art by Larraz, $5 + tax
  • Eight Billion Genies deluxe edition Vol. 1 Convention Exclusive hardcover by Charles Soule & Ryan Browne, cover art by Browne $39.99 + tax
  • Inferno Girl Red Convention Exclusive hardcover by Mat Groom & Erica D’Urso, cover art by D’Urso, $40 + tax
  • Night Fever hardcover by Ed Brubaker & Sean Phillips with Convention Exclusive dust jacket, cover art by Phillips, $24.99 + tax
  • A Righteous Thirst for Vengeance deluxe hardcover by Rick Remender & André Lima Araújo with Convention Exclusive dust jacket, cover art by Araújo, $39.99 + tax
  • Paper Girls x Blackwings collab pencils, $25 + tax
  • Black Science statue, $100 + tax

AVAILABLE AT THE MAD GHOST PRODUCTIONS BOOTH (#1320):

  • Geiger: Ground Zero full color, 8-page Convention Exclusive ashcan

IMAGE COMICS SDCC PANELS:

—THURSDAY, 7/20—

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Image Comics: Spotlight on Bestselling Creator Jeff Lemire

Join us for an in-depth conversation with bestselling, multiple award winning, master storyteller Jeff Lemire as he shares details about his new series Fishflies and Tenement as well as his upcoming graphic novel Cosmic Detective and even more in store for his fans. Moderator Ashley V. Robinson of Popverse, Geek History Lesson podcast. Room: 25ABC

—FRIDAY, 7/21—

10:30AM – 11:30AM
Image Comics: Spotlight on the Legendary Todd McFarlane

Todd McFarlane Spawn and Venom creator, McFarlane Toys’ CEO, and President of Image Comics takes fans on a behind-the-scenes look at Spawnmania. McFarlane offers fans a sneak peek into the future of upcoming toys, what’s ahead for the Spawn Universe, and all the exciting developments on the horizon.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Image Comics: Spotlight on Bestselling Writer Rick Remender

Join comics titan Rick Remender for an in-depth conversation about his Giant Generator imprint at Image Comics, his 25 years as one of the primary voices shaping the landscape of creator owned comics with tiles like Fear Agent, Black Science, Low, Deadly Class, and Seven to Eternity, how the industry attitude towards creator rights has changed, the power of DIY thinking, and the inside scoop on his new ongoing series with Max Fiumara, The Sacrificers! All of this and a massive announcement about a new Giant Generator project slated to hit next year! Moderator: Robert Kirkman of Invincible, The Walking Dead. Room: 25ABC

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Syzygy Publishing’s Tales of Syzpense: its recent Past, current Present, and exciting Future

Join Chris Ryall and Ashley Wood, the co-founders of Image’s newest imprint, Syzygy, and some of Syz’s key creators for spirited Tales of Syzpense involving what’s come before and what’s coming up next. Panelists include multiple-Eisner nominees and Rain co-creators David M. Booher and Zoe Thorogood! Hitomi writer HS Tak! And Artist Uko Smith! Interesting announcements and great art will be provided, gratis, to all attendees! Room 24ABC

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Image Comics: The Future of RADIANT BLACK’s The Massive-Verse

Join Massive-Verse superstars Kyle Higgins (Radiant Black, No/One), Brian Buccellato (No/One), Melissa Flores (The Dead Lucky), Ryan Parrott (Rogue Sun), and more special, celebrity surprise guests as the crew unveils exciting new developments and announcements in store for the Massive-verse this year and beyond! Moderator: TBA. Room: 5AB

5:00 – 6:00 PM
Cliff Bleszinski: Games to Comics

Games legend Cliff Bleskinski (Gears of War, Fortnite) discusses the creation of his debut comic Scrapper (Image Comics) with co-writer Alex de Campi (Dracula, Motherf**ker!, Bad Karma, Parasocial), plus a Q&A moderated by John Nee (publisher, Marvel; president Wildstorm). Room 23ABC.

6:15 – 7:00 PM
Cliff Bleszinski post-panel signing in Autograph Area

—SATURDAY, 7/22—

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Image Comics: Comics Storytelling, Genre & Craft

Join Dustin Nguyen (Little Monsters), Zoe Thorogood (It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth), Daniel Warren Johnson (Do a Powerbomb!), Alex De Campi (Parasocial), Ryan Stegman (The Schlub), and Pornsak Pichetshote (The Good Asian) for a freewheeling conversation amongst some of the top talent in the comics industry as they discuss genre, storytelling, industry secrets, and tricks-of-the-trade. Moderator: Chris Arrant of Popverse. Room: 28DE

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Spotlight on Alex de Campi, bestselling writer/co-creator of Dracula, Motherf**ker!

Cult comics writer Alex de Campi (Dracula, Motherf**ker!, Bad Karma, Parasocial) discusses her career and the three books she has coming out this Autumn. Q&A to follow. Moderator: Khai Krumbhaar of Geekiary & True War Stories. Room 9.

1:30 – 2:00 PM
Alex de Campi post-panel signing in Autograph Area.

—SUNDAY, 7/23—

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Image Comics: Comics characters fans will love or hate—or love to hate!

Join Mirka Andolfo (Sweet Paprika), Tony Fleecs (Local Man), Sanford Greene (Bitter Root), David F. Walker (Bitter Root), Rodney Barnes (Killadelphia) and special surprise guests come together for an in-depth discussion of character building that leaps from the page and the secret behind what makes for loveable or unlikable characters for readers. Moderator: Graeme McMillan of Popverse. Room 10

SIGNINGS AT THE IMAGE COMICS BOOTH (#1915):
*All items presented for signing are subject to review and denial by staff. No CGC, CBCS, or other witnessing/grading.

—THURSDAY, 7/20—

1:30 – 2:30 PM

  • Dustin Nguyen
  • Brett Bean

3:00 – 4:00 PM

  • Charles Soule
  • John Layman

3:30 – 4:30 PM

  • Gerry Duggan, Brian Posehn & Scott Koblish

4:30 – 5:30 PM

  • David F. Walker & Sanford Greene

—FRIDAY, 7/21—

10:30 – 11:30 AM

  • Zoe Thorogood (no sketches)

11 – 12 PM

  • Daniel Warren Johnson

12 – 1 PM

  • Jeff Lemire

12:30 – 1:30 PM

  • Alex de Campi

1:30 – 2:30 PM

  • Rick Remender

2:30 – 3:00 PM

  • Shof Coker

4:00 – 5:00 PM

  • Massive-Verse group signing

4:30 – 5:30 PM

  • Charles Soule & Ryan Browne

—SATURDAY, 7/22—

10:00 – 11:00 AM

  • Charles Soule & Ryan Browne
  • Fred Kennedy, Allison O’Toole & Nick Marinkovich

11:30 – 12:30 PM

  • Zoe Thorogood (no sketches)
  • Daniel Warren Johnson

1:00 – 2:00 PM

  • Tony Fleecs & Tim Seeley (limited quantity free promotional Local Man trading cards available to signing attendees, first come, first serve).
  • Pornsak Pichetshote

2:30 – 3:30 PM

  • Rodney Barnes & Jason Shawn Alexander
  • Shof Coker

4:00 – 5:00 PM

  • Rick Remender
  • Sanford Greene

—SUNDAY, 7/23—

10:00 – 11:00 AM

  • Mirka Andolfo

10:30 – 11:30 AM

  • Zoe Thorogood (no sketches)

OFF-SITE SDCC PROGRAMMING:

—SATURDAY, 7/22—

4:00 – 6:00 PM
Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event
Together, creators, publishers, comic shop owners, teachers, and library workers have brought greater acceptance to comics and fan culture. Take a break from hectic convention life to experience “speed dating”style networking with diverse comics enthusiasts from all backgrounds. Guests include: Alex Antone (Skybound Entertainment), Heather Antos (IDW Publishing), Vince Alvendia (Egg Drop Ramen Studios), Matthew Atherton (CSUSM), Moni Barrette (2023 Eisner judge), David M. Booher (Killer Queens), J.M. Brandt (Swamp Dogs: House of Crows), Cherish Chen (Massive-Verse), Amy Chu (Carmilla: The First Vampire), Dani Colman (The Unfinished Corner), Barbra Dillon (Fanbase Press), Andi Dukleth (Accidental Aliens), Kyle Higgins (Massive-Verse), Phil Jimenez (Wonder Woman Historia), Nikita Kannekanti (Legendary Comics), Mathias Lewis (Knowhere Games & Comics), Hannah Rose May (Rogues’ Gallery), Don Nguyen (Zoo Magnet Inc.), Alonso Nunez (Little Fish Comic Book Studio), Morgan Perry (Skybound Entertainment), Jack Phoenix (comics librarian), Jimmy Purcell (A3 Publishing), Chris Ryall (Image Comics/Syzygy), Brian Schirmer (Quests Aside), Erin Snider (Creators Assemble!), and Charlie Stickney (White Ash). Marriott Marquis Marina D

Posted in Conventions, Events & Expos, San Diego Comic Con 2023 | Comments Off on IMAGE COMICS AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2023

“The Making of Karateka” interactive documentary

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Before The Last Express… before Prince of Persia… there was Karateka.

The Making of Karateka - Trailer

Famed game designer Jordan Mechner was an 18-year-old college student when he started making the martial arts adventure that would become one of the most influential games of the Apple II era.

Four decades later, the story behind this groundbreaking game has been meticulously reconstructed into an innovative interactive documentary by Digital Eclipse, the team behind acclaimed collections including the Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection.

Unveiled minutes ago during Microsoft’s ID@Xbox showcase, The Making of Karateka will be available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S as well as Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC (Steam, GOG, and Epic Store). A simultaneous release on all platforms is expected later this summer.

The Making of Karateka - Characters Bowing

 

The Making of Karateka - Rotoscoping

ABOUT THE INTERACTIVE DOCUMENTARY
Discover how Karateka was made through an exhaustive archive of design documents, playable prototypes, and all-new video features. Like walking through a museum, you can explore the interactive timelines and their historical artifacts at your own pace.

The Making of Karateka includes:

  • Pixel-perfect versions of the original Karateka games plus a variety of never-before-seen early prototypes, with rich quality-of-life features like save anywhere, rewind, chapter select, and director’s commentary.
  • Two remastered games: Karateka Remastered, an all-new adaptation of the original featuring cutting-room-floor content, commentary & achievements, and Deathbounce: Rebounded, a fast and frantic twin-stick shooter based on Jordan’s unpublished prototype.
  • A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how Karateka became one of the first games to include cinematic scenes, a moving original soundtrack, rotoscoped animation, a Hollywood-style love story, and more.

 

The Making of Karateka - Characters Hugging

INTRODUCING THE GOLD MASTER SERIES
The Making of Karateka will be the first release in Digital Eclipse’s Gold Master Series, which will archive video game history in a uniquely interactive, playable format. The series’ second entry, also in development, will be unveiled later this year. Sign up for the Digital Eclipse newsletter to receive updates on the Gold Master Series and more.

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GEOFF JOHNS & GARY FRANK’S BESTSELLING SERIES GEIGER GETS OWN BOOTH AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

PORTLAND, Ore. 07/11/2023 — Geoff Johns and Gary Frank’s critically acclaimed bestselling comic book series Geiger, published by Image Comics, will have a dedicated booth for the first time at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con (July 19-23). Fans of the creator-owned series can flock to Geiger’s staffed booth #1320, located in Halls B/C, beginning on Preview Night, Wednesday, July 19, through Sunday, July 23. Booth visitors will receive a limited edition, full color, eight page ashcan of the upcoming Geiger: Ground Zero featuring the latest adventure of radioactive family man Tariq Geiger, as he fights to protect his family in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

“The response to Geiger has been truly overwhelming,” said Johns. “We’re excited to continue building Geiger, Junkyard Joe, Redcoat, and the rest of The Unnamed Universe, so having a dedicated presence at this year’s Comic-Con is a great opportunity to further share it all with fans.”

Geiger is also currently being adapted as a streaming series for Paramount TV by Geoff Johns’ Mad Ghost and Justin Simiens’ Culture Machine.

GEIGER San Diego Comic-Con Booth Information:
Dates: Wednesday, July 19 – Sunday, July 23, 2023
Hours: 6:00–9:00 PM on Wednesday; 9:30 AM–7 PM on Thursday–Saturday; 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM on Sunday
Booth #: 1320
Location: Halls B/C, San Diego Convention Center

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Skybound to Celebrate 20 Years of The Walking Dead and Invincible at Comic-Con International: San Diego 2023

Posted on 07/11/2023 by Pop-Culture Spectrum

Join Skybound for Exclusive Panels, Talent Appearances Including Wrestling Legends, Katee Sackhoff, and Greg Nicotero, Playable Game Demos, and More as the Creator Led Company Hits the SDCC Show Floor for the First Time

LOS ANGELES, CA – July 11, 2023 – Skybound Entertainment, the creator-led, multi-platform entertainment company, today unveiled its plans for this year’s Comic-Con International: San Diego. Skybound is celebrating the 20th anniversary of two of the company’s beloved franchises: The Walking Dead and Invincible. It will be an action-packed week filled with exclusive panels, celebrity appearances and signings, giveaways, playable tabletop and video games, daily photo booth and cosplay contests and much more taking place at the Skybound booth (#3735).

For all the updates and schedules go to skybound.com/sdcc-2023 or follow the Skybound social channels. Skybound will be hosting the following panels, special events, appearances and livestream and stage programming each day at the show. Additionally, fans can watch all of the livestream programming from home at twitch.tv/skybound and https://www.youtube.com/@Skybound.

Wednesday, July 19

Fans can join Skybound at their two story booth for the company’s first ever appearance on the SDCC show floor. Preview night will kick things off with a special celebration of the recently announced partnership between Skybound and toy and game company Hasbro. A live session of Travel by Trolley, the hit board game with a brand-new vacation expansion pack, will also be running.

The merchandise booth will be open for business starting tonight, premiering exclusive SDCC gear including comics, games, apparel, limited edition collectibles and more across fan-favorite Skybound properties.

Headlining the merchandise booth will be custom The Walking Dead skate decks by rising star artist Bear Walker, all-new The Walking Dead and Invincible AR-enabled pins by Pinfinity, and the official Burger Mart Box, which features exclusive Invincible merchandise alongside all-new Slabs comic cover trading cards produced by Yesterdays, with 1:10 chance of securing a Robert Kirkman signed Slab.

Each day of the convention will also see a special variant cover of Invincible comics available for fans to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the best superhero comic in the universe, published by Image Comics. Skybound has recruited some of the best talent in comics–Greg Capullo, Tradd Moore, Andy Kubert, Justine Florentino and Rose Besch–to showcase favorite characters Invincible, Omni-Man, Atom Eve and Battle Beast.

Thursday, July 20

WrestleQuest: The Wrestlefication of an RPG

4:15-5:15 PM, Room 6A

Join Mega Cat Studios team members alongside surprise legendary wrestlers, as they break down bringing traditional JRPG mechanics to the wrestling ring. Peak behind the scenes with case studies, lessons learned, and feedback from fans, professional wrestlers, and RPG superfans. Panelists include wrestling legends Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Sgt. Slaughter, Jeff Jarrett along with James Deighan and Zack Manko of Mega Cat Studios.

At the Skybound booth:

Travis Beacham, creator of the hit Audible original Impact Winter, will do a signing (3:30-4:30pm*) and be joined by Skybound Chairman Robert Kirkman in conversation live. Greg Nicotero and artist Becky Cloonan of the Skybound anthology comic series Creepshow (10:00-11:00am*), published by Image Comics, will be making special appearances and signing. Wrestling legends Jeff Jarret, Jake “The Snake” Roberts and Sgt. Slaughter will be making an appearance and signing, as the development team from Mega Cat Studios shows off the latest gameplay from the highly anticipated WrestleQuest (12:30-1:30pm*).

Offsite Activation:

Impact Winter themed activations include wrapped trolleys transporting SDCC attendees throughout the Gaslamp and an exclusive, VIP-only immersive dinner featuring thrilling audio and tantalizing provisions called “The Feast.”

Friday, July 21

Invincible 20th Anniversary Panel

4:30PM – 5:30 PM, Room 6BCF

The Best Superhero Comic Book In The Universe celebrates its 20th anniversary, since it first debuted at Image Comics, with a look back at the franchise and a look forward at what’s to come in the worlds of comics, animation, video games, tabletop games, and more! Join Invincible creators Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley along with Marge Dean (Head of Studio, Skybound Animation) and Mike Rogers (Creative Director, Skybound).

A Q&A with the Cast and Creator of Prime Video’s Invincible

5:45 – 6:45 PM, Room 6BCF

Join executive producer Robert Kirkman and members of the cast and crew as they break news and discuss key storylines from the upcoming and highly anticipated second season of Prime Video’s hit animated series Invincible, based on the groundbreaking comic book by Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley. The story revolves around 18-year-old Mark Grayson, who’s just like every other guy his age—except his father is (or was) the most powerful superhero on the planet. Starring Steven Yeun, with Sandra Oh, Zazie Beetz, Grey Griffin, Chris Diamantopoulos, Walton Goggins, Gillian Jacobs, Jason Mantzoukas, Ross Marquand, Khary Payton, Zachary Quinto, Andrew Rannells, Kevin Michael Richardson, Seth Rogen, and J.K. Simmons. Executive producers are Kirkman, Catherine Winder, David Alpert, Simon Racioppa, Margaret M. Dean, Rogen, and Evan Goldberg, and co-executive producers are Helen Leigh and Walker.

 

This is NOT an Invincible Season Two Special Screening

10:00 – 11:00 PM, Room 6A

At the Skybound booth:

Wrestling legends will be making an appearance and signing, as the development team from Mega Cat Studios shows off the latest gameplay from the highly anticipated WrestleQuest (1:30-2:30pm*). Skybound Animation’s Marge Dean will be on hand to discuss bringing Invincible from comics to the screen (10:00-11:00am*).

Saturday, July 22

Transformers & G.I. Joe Return in The Energon Universe

4:15-5:15 PM, Room 6A

The Transformers and G.I. Joe are back at Skybound, kicking off THE ENERGON UNIVERSE! Superstars Robert Kirkman (Void Rivals), Daniel Warren Johnson (Transformers), Joshua Williamson (Duke, Cobra Commander) and Sean Mackiewicz (SVP/Publisher, Skybound) reveal the secrets behind Image/Skybound’s most anticipated comics of 2023. Moderated by James Viscardi (ComicBook.com).

At the Skybound booth:

Iconic actress Katee Sackhoff will be making an appearance on the broadcast livestream to talk about her new podcast, Blah Blah Blah with Katee Sackhoff (1:30-2:00pm*). Artist Bear Walker will be hosting a signing and debuting his all-new The Walking Dead skate deck (12:00-1:00pm*). Daniel Warren Johnson (Transformers) and Joshua Williamson (Duke, Cobra Commander) will also be hosting an Energon Universe signing (6:00-7:00pm*).

Sunday, July 23

At the Skybound booth:

Impact Winter creator Travis Beacham will do a signing (3:00-4:00pm*). An exclusive look at the upcoming new tabletop game Kiss the Goblin played live on the Skybound stage (12:00-1:30pm*). Fans can participate in a cosplay contest for exclusive prizes (2:30-3:00pm*). Skybound CEO David Alpert will host a special session on giving fans the unique opportunity to own a part of Skybound (1:30-2:00pm*).

         

All Week

Throughout the show at the Skybound booth fans will be able to preview and play the following highly anticipated audio series and video and tabletop games:

  • Impact Winter: The Skybound booth will come complete with individual sound bays where fans can listen to Season 1 highlights and Season 2 previews of the best selling Audible original series. The second season of the epic post-apocalyptic drama from Audible, Skybound and Anonymous Content debuts exclusively on Audible on July 13.
  • WrestleQuest: an upcoming RPG adventure featuring a licensed roster of iconic wrestling legends scheduled for worldwide release on August 8. Players assume the role of a young wrestling hopeful, on their quest to become one of the all-time greats by powerbombing, slamming, and suplexing their way to the top. As our hero progresses through their quest, they’ll note homages to “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Booker T, Andre The Giant, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Diamond Dallas Page, Jeff Jarrett, and many more.
  • Invincible and The Walking Dead Dice Games: Play the two new card-and-dice games set to launch in Q4 2023 in time for Season 2 of the highly anticipated Invincible series on Amazon Prime. Both games are designed to be easy to learn and packed with iconic art from Skybound’s flagship comic universes, clever mechanics, and exciting push-your-luck gameplay.

Exclusive Merchandise including:

  • Bear Walker Skate Deck – $225
  • The Walking Dead Backpack – $64.99
  • Pinfinity The Walking Dead Blind Box Pins – $14.99
  • The Walking Dead Bloody Clementine “Clem” Hat – $24.99
  • Lucille Ballpoint Pen – $9.99
  • Pinfinity Invincible Pin Set – $39.99
  • Burger Mart Box with Invincible Slabs Comic Cover Trading Cards – $49.99
  • Mantic The Walking Dead Dice Game – $19.99
  • Mantic Invincible Dice Game – $19.99
  • Impact Winter Vinyl Soundtrack – $24.99
  • Trial by Trolley Core Deck – $24.99
  • Trial by Trolley Vacation Expansion – $17.99
  • Mr. Lovenstein Presents: No Context – $24.99
  •    
  • Exclusive Comics including:
    • Invincible #1 Greg Capullo Variant – $25.00 – available Wednesday only
    • Invincible #11 Tradd Moore Variant – $20.00 – available Thursday only
    • Invincible #19 Andy Kubert Variant – $20.00 – available Friday only
    • Invincible #2 Rose Besch Variant – $20.00 – available Saturday only
    • Invincible #2 Justine Florentino Variant – $20.00 – available Sunday only
    • Void Rivals #1 Daniel Warren Johnson Variant – $20.00
    • Transformers #1 Ashcan – $20.00
    • Creepshow Volume 2 #1 Ashcan – $10.00

    *Note: All Skybound booth activity times are subject to change. All signings will be limited to three items per person. All items presented for signing are subject to review and denial by staff. No CGC, CBCS, or other witnessing/grading.

    Follow Skybound on Twitter (@Skybound), YouTube (Skybound), Facebook (@SkyboundEntertainment), Instagram (@skyboundent), Discord (Skybound), Reddit (Skybound), and at https://www.skybound.com/sdcc-2023 for updates in real time from the convention floor.

 

Posted in Comics, Conventions, Events & Expos, San Diego Comic Con 2023, TV and Movies | Comments Off on Skybound to Celebrate 20 Years of The Walking Dead and Invincible at Comic-Con International: San Diego 2023