Comic Book News

Legendary Graphic Novel Publisher Humanoids Announces New Literary Imprint LIFE DRAWN

March 28, 2018: Humanoids, the publisher of some of the world’s most iconic and groundbreaking science fiction and fantasy graphic novels, is launching a new literary imprint in 2018, timed to the company’s 20th anniversary of publishing its acclaimed books in the United States. Best known for seminal genre works including The Incal (Alejandro Jodorowsky, Mœbius) and The Metabarons (Jodorowsky, Gimenez) and internationally renowned creators, including Milo Manara and Jose Ladronn, Humanoids will make a bold break from tradition with its new endeavor. Launching on April 4th, the LIFE DRAWN imprint will publish graphic novels featuring deeply personal and powerful political narratives; these are stories grounded in life on earth, not among the stars.

“Since its inception in the ’70s, Humanoids has published some of the greatest science fiction and fantasy tales ever told—including international best sellers such as The Incal and The Metabarons,” said Humanoids CEO and Publisher, Fabrice Giger. “After so many years of exploring imaginary universes, I felt the urgency for us to also explore . . . real life. Our new imprint LIFE DRAWN will bring our readers down to earth, where humanity is just as captivating as any alien world. With LIFE DRAWN, Humanoids is committed to publishing diverse voices and stories from different points of view, whether it’s powerful political and personal stories from Afghanistan or Vietnam or a biography of Hedy Lamarr.”

LIFE DRAWN’s debut season features titles representing a wide spectrum of art styles, tone, and social and cultural perspectives:

Kabul Disco: How I Managed Not to Be Abducted in Afghanistan by Nicolas Wild

Publication date: April 4, 2018; ISBN: 978-1594658686; 160 Pages; $19.95

LIFE DRAWN debuts with the first volume of a satire-laced travel memoir by cartoonist Nicolas Wild about his experiences in Afghanistan, drawing an adaptation of of the Afghan constitution. Wild provides insights into international politics, a war-ravaged country and the lives of his fellow expatriates. In a dazzling passage, Wild explores the fragile state of American democracy through the story of a woman who was working for the Bush campaign in 2000 and was responsible for vote counting in one of Florida’s three counties, ultimately making the fateful phone call that helped swing the election. Acclaimed cartoonist Guy Delisle (Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea) declares that Wild’s “satirical and at times absurdist perspective plunges us into the daily life of a group of expatriates in the heart of Kabul, a city still reeling from the last war. His witty sense of humor makes him an excellent travel companion.” Book Two will be published in September.

Vietnamese Memories: Leaving Saigon by award-winning writer and artist Clément Baloup

Publication date: May 29, 2018; ISBN: 978-1594656583; 164 Pages; $19.95

The first of a three-volume testimonial to the courage and endurance of five different families displaced from their native country by war and colonialism and forced to assimilate in unfamiliar lands, watching their heritage slowly disappear. As Doan Hoang, the award-winning director of Oh, Saigon, says in her introduction of Book One, “History is mostly told by the privileged and powerful, and rarely by those who are most affected. . . . In this sumptuously beautiful and important graphic novel, you will intimately bear witness to what so few in the world have been privy to.”

Luisa: Now and Then by Carole Maurel, Adapted by‎ Mariko Tamaki (This One Summer)

Publication date: June 20, 2018; ISBN: 978-1594656439; 272 Pages; $29.95

A queer transformative tale about self-acceptance and sexuality, written and illustrated by Carole Maurel and adapted by national bestseller Mariko Tamaki, Caldecott Award–winning creator of This One Summer. A disillusioned photographer has a chance encounter with her lost teenage self who has miraculously traveled into the future. Together, both women ultimately discover who they really are, finding the courage to live life by being true to themselves. The book will be published in June, timed to Pride Month.

Madame Cat by Nancy Peña

Publication date: July 4, 2018; ISBN: 978-1594658136; 128 pages; $12.95

Hilarious vignettes presenting the love, laughter and frustrations of a pet who thinks she’s an owner! With narrative mastery, creator Nancy Peña brings us bite-sized sketches that appeal to cat lovers of all ages.

With upcoming releases dedicated to subjects as diverse as the life of Hedy Lamarr and the New York Marathon, Humanoids’ LIFE DRAWN imprint will capture deeply personal stories that run the gamut from political travelogues to coming-of-age and coming-out stories. For more updates on LIFE DRAWN, follow Humanoids on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

LEGENDARY CREATOR FRANK MILLER SIGNS
FIVE-PROJECT DEAL WITH DC

Miller Pens First Young Reader Graphic Novel Starring Carrie Kelley

as Part of Multi-Project Agreement

BURBANK, CA (March 23, 2018) – Industry icon Frank Miller continues his long-standing relationship with DC as a five-project deal is announced today by DC Publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee.

Amongst the planned releases from the legendary writer/artist is a forthcoming graphic novel starring Carrie Kelley, whom Miller created for the genre-defining series BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS. Marking Miller’s first-ever foray into storytelling for young readers, the new graphic novel will feature illustrations by artist Ben Caldwell (PREZ).

This new project will join the previously announced DC Black Label prestige series SUPERMAN: YEAR ONE, featuring art by John Romita Jr., as part of Miller’s multi-project deal.

“Frank is a creative force in this industry, not just with a transformative take on iconic characters like Superman and Batman, but also by tackling the young reader genre,” says DC Publisher Dan DiDio. “He is an icon. As a publisher, I’m thrilled—as a fan, I’m even more excited.”

“Frank Miller is an absolute visionary,” says DC Publisher Jim Lee. “He continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, and I can’t wait for a new generation of fans to meet Carrie Kelley. Joining Frank as collaborator on Carrie Kelley is one of my favorite artists–Ben Caldwell, a singular talent who brings his stylized, clean line and rock solid, playful storytelling to this project. We couldn’t ask for a better creative team.”

In addition to the above two books, Miller will pen three additional upcoming projects yet to be announced.

“I am psyched to continue my partnership with DC,” explains Miller. “Developing the Carrie Kelley project and SUPERMAN: YEAR ONE with Dan and Jim has been a dream. It’s thrilling to have Carrie Kelley take center stage for the first time, and the energy that Ben is bringing to her is new and different—it’s incredible to see. It’s also a lot of fun working alongside John on SUPERMAN: YEAR ONE, this project is a childhood dream come true for me.”

Weapon Brown: Aftershock, via @Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1927638179/weapon-brown-aftershock

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 27^th February 2018: Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s first-ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park, has unveiled details about one of its most anticipated lands Gotham City. When the park opens this summer, Batman fans will have the chance to walk the streets of Gotham City alongside notorious Super-Villains such as The Joker, The Riddler, Scarecrow, Catwoman and Harley Quinn. The immersive land will feature interactive experiences, including state-of-the-art rides and attractions, authentically themed restaurants and memorabilia shops — all inspired by the characters and stories from DC’s famed comic books and movies.

Mark Gsellman, Park General Manager, stated: “Home to fan-favorite DC Super Heroes, we’re very excited for our guests to experience the immersive environment of Gotham City, where Batman will emerge from the shadows to help fight crime and stop the city’s Super-Villains. From heart-pounding flight simulators to authentic landmarks, this land is sure to leave a lasting impression on guests of all ages.”

In Gotham City, guests will be able to climb aboard a one-of-a-kind robotically controlled flying Batwing vehicle to help the Caped Crusader bring crime to its knees in Batman: Knight Flight — a highly exhilarating dark ride, providing drops, climbs, spins, and rolls. On this ride, guests will step through a secret panel at Wayne Tech headquarters where they will be recruited as test pilots for the newest prototype of the ultimate urban patrol vehicle. Launching out of the Batcave and soaring over moonlit rooftops, guests will forever remember the experience of thwarting criminals alongside Batman. This ride combines a high-tech flight simulator with immersive scenery and state-of-the-art special effects for a thrilling experience.

Amongst the shipping yards of Gotham City’s wharf, fans’ adrenaline will soar on the Scarecrow Scare Raid, a rousing flight experience that will rattle the cage of any bat or man. This ride blends wild interactive adventures with dizzying maneuvers from Scarecrow’s latest psychological experiments. This diabolical interactive experience features dramatic aerobatics and whirlwind barrel rolls, which are sure to leave an unforgettable impression.

Other exciting attractions to visit in Gotham City include The Riddler Revolution — a rocking, spinning rollercoaster designed by The Riddler himself. In addition, guests can visit The Joker’s Funhouse, a villainous twist on the classic carnival walkthrough experience. The Joker’s Funhouse features a series of physical and mental challenges conjured up byBatman’s biggest foe, including a hall of mirrors, a shrinking corridor, a labyrinth, a hallucination hallway and moving carpets— among many other memorable encounters. A host of delightfully puzzling games also await park guests at Rogues Gallery Games. Ranging from the Hi-Striker, the Whac-A-Bat, and the Get-Away Car, to the Toxic Blast and the Bazooka Blast, guests will have a chance to use their skills to reclaim Gotham Pier— a once peaceful landmark now held hostage by The Joker and his henchmen.

Hungry, law-abiding citizens can satisfy their appetites at Gotham City’s Finest — the Police Department’s own favorite hangout spot. If guests prefer living on the other side of the law, the Hall Of Doom, hidden in an abandoned subway station, hosts a dinner service for some of Gotham City’s most feared Super-Villains. If savory delights don’t do the trick, guests with a sweet tooth can visit the Mr. Freeze Ice Scream Truck for an ice-cold dessert.

Friends and families can commemorate their visit to Gotham City by visiting souvenir shops filled with mementos and memorabilia, such as Park Row Pawn Shop and Monarch Theater Gifts.

When it debuts to the public, Warner Bros. World™Abu Dhabi will feature a total of 29 state-of-the-art rides, interactive family-friendly attractions and unique live entertainment across six fully immersive lands, including Metropolis, Gotham City, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, and Warner Bros. Plaza. From the action and adrenaline-fueled adventures of DC to the wacky and wonderful world of Warner Bros. Animation, Warner Bros. World™ will offer captivating and interactive experiences that bring together some of the world’s most iconic characters and stories under one roof for the first time in the region.

Last month, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi revealed exciting details about the second DC-inspired land at the park, Metropolis, in addition to a plethora of information about Cartoon Junction, a Warner Bros. Animation land. To learn more, visitwww.wbworld.com

Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi will unveil more exciting details on the park’s six unique lands, including the unique variety of rides and attractions to be featured at Bedrock and Dynamite Gulch, along with the opening date.

OVERSIZED 48-PAGE SUPERMAN ONE-SHOTS COMING IN MAY

ACTION COMICS SPECIAL #1 and SUPERMAN SPECIAL #1 Celebrate Three Prolific Superman Storytellers, Feature Bonus Content

The creative talent of ACTION COMICS writer Dan Jurgens and the SUPERMAN team of Patrick Gleason and Peter J. Tomasi have brought legions of Superman fans story after story filled with action, humor, emotion and candor–traits that have continued to present Superman as an enduring symbol of hope, optimism, truth and justice. This May, the conclusions to their epic runs serve as the centerpieces of two special one-shot issues.

On sale May 2, the 48-page ACTION COMICS SPECIAL #1 features “The Last Will and Testament of Lex Luthor,” written by Jurgens with art by Will Conrad. Beginning with the events of REBIRTH, Superman’s greatest enemy became his most unexpected ally. Is Lex finally on the heroic path, or is he still hiding his true colors? When he finds himself in an adventure where Superman could be destroyed, what will he do? Save the Man of Steel, or witness his demise at the hands of an unimaginable enemy? This oversize special also includes stories from Max Landis and Francis Manapul (TRINITY, JUSTICE LEAGUE: NO JUSTICE) originally slated to appear in the DC UNIVERSE HOLIDAY SPECIAL 2017 #1, and Mark Russell (THE FLINTSTONES, EXIT STAGE LEFT: THE SNAGGLEPUSS CHRONICLES) with artist Jill Thompson (WONDER WOMAN: THE TRUE AMAZON).

Available May 16, SUPERMAN SPECIAL #1 features Tomasi and Gleason’s “The Promise,” concluding a story from REBIRTH that began in issue #8, 2016’s “Escape from Dinosaur Island.” Before Superman’s world goes through some drastic changes, he has unfinished business to attend to on Dinosaur Island. Superman and the Losers’ Captain Storm take one final trip together into the abyss of tomorrow, which brings the military man out of time into the world of today. This 48-page extra-size special also features bonus stories by Mark Russell with art by Bryan Hitch and Ian Flynn with art by Kaare Andrews.

For more information on Superman or any of the World’s Greatest Super Heroes, check out the website at www.dccomics.com, or visit the official DC YouTube channel.

The adventure begins with a first look at signature rides and iconic characters set to be featured in two of the park’s six immersive lands

Abu Dhabi, UAE 6 February 2018: Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi—the world’s first-ever Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park—revealed for the first time today a closer look at two of its six themed lands,Metropolis and Cartoon Junction, which will showcase signature rides, entertainment and restaurants inspired by the stories and characters from DC and Warner Bros. Animation. When it publicly debuts on Yas Island in summer 2018, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will feature a total of 29 state-of-the-art rides, interactive family-friendly attractions and unique live entertainment across six fully immersive lands including Metropolis, Gotham City, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch and Warner Bros. Plaza.

From the super-heroic action and adrenaline-fueled adventures of DC, to the wacky and wonderful stories of Warner Bros. Animation, Warner Bros. World will offer for the first time in the region captivating and interactive experiences that bring together some of the world’s most iconic characters and stories under one roof. As guests walk through the iconic Warner Bros. shield, they will enter a world where Super Heroes like Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman fight for justice and animated stars like Bugs Bunny, Wile E. Coyote and Scooby-Doo come to life.

Metropolis

Beyond the arches of Warner Bros. Plaza, guests will be transported to the bright, bustling and modern cityscape of Metropolis. Known as “The City of Tomorrow,” the Manhattan-like skyscraper city is protected from villains by DC Super Heroes like Superman and other members of the Justice League,including Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Green Lantern,Cyborg and The Flash, in addition to the Teen Titans.

The iconic Daily Planet, Metropolis’ famed media conglomerate, is home to Superman 360: Battle for Metropolis, a pulse-pounding attraction that featuresthe Man of Steel in a riveting battle of good versus evil that will decide the fate of Metropolis. Thrill enthusiasts entering the legendary Hall of Justice, the massive headquarters of the Justice League, can hop onboard Justice League: Warworld Attacks, a thrilling dark ride that utilizes immersive media and special effects to take guests on an unforgettable ride as they team up with the Justice League to fight off invaders from another galaxy.

Other exciting attractions that Metropolis will include are Green Lantern: Galactic Odyssey, an awe-inspiring 4D “flying theatre” that transports guests across the cosmos to extraordinary worlds enriched by multi-sensory special effects, and Teen Titans Training Academy, a multi-level play area featuring a zipline and other physical activities that invite aspiring heroes to showcase their skills alongside the legendary Teen Titans.

When it comes to dining, guests can choose from Ace O’ Clubs, Bibbo Bibbowski’s quick service restaurant or Park Ridge Market, a grab-and-go café, to satisfy their hunger.

Guests can also take home a piece of Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi by visiting souvenir shops such asZatanna Books & Magical Curiosities and Justice League Hero Supply. Fans can memorialize their visit to the Daily Planet at Front Page Photo, where they can appear on the front-page of the famed publication, and pick up special editions of the newspaper from the Daily Planet Newsstand.

“With the park well on track to open its doors to the public within mere months, we are incredibly excited to share our story with audiences around the world, and will be announcing the exact opening date very soon.” said Mark Gsellman, Park General Manager.

“The six different and immersive lands will seamlessly transport guests of all ages to the lands of their favorite DC Super Heroes and beloved Warner Bros. Animation characters. As guests enter Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, they’ll discover the Warner Bros. Plaza—a land inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood—to celebrate all things Warner Bros.! From there, park-goers can step through one of the many portals that lead to our other lands including Metropolis, Gotham City, Cartoon Junction, Bedrockand Dynamite Gulch—each of which offers a unique set of experiences and authentically themed restaurants and shopping outlets.”

Cartoon Junction

Childhood memories come to life in Cartoon Junction, where guests will discover the wit and whimsy of the most iconic characters and animated stories from Looney Tunes and Hanna-Barbera. In a land filled with fun adventures, Tom and Jerry can be spotted getting up to their usual hijinks, while Scooby-Doo and the gang follow clues in the hunt to solve spooky mysteries. Additional animated stars like Bugs Bunny,Daffy Duck, Tweety, Sylvester, Tasmanian Devil (Taz), Pepé Le Pew, Elmer Fudd and many others can also be found roaming around in Cartoon Junction.

Featuring nine family-friendly rides and attractions, this whimsical carefree land offers fun for both kids, and kids at heart. In the center of Cartoon Junction’s town square is the Tom and Jerry Swiss Cheese Spin, a ride where guests can experience a dizzying spinning coaster that careens them throughout the dynamic duo’s house on a fast-moving chase full of twists and turns (and cheese). On the outskirts of town, a classic haunted dark ride gets a trackless twist in Scooby-Doo: The Museum of Mysteries. Guests will hop in their very own Mystery Machines to follow Scooby and the gang as they try to untangle the silly, spooky secrets of the museum, culminating in a crazy chase reminiscent of the hijinks in the classic cartoons.

Other exciting attractions include Ani-Mayhem, an interactive dark ride that takes passengers on a rollicking mission to deliver their own cartoon chaos,Meet Bugs! (and Daffy), a one-of-a-kind walk-through experience at the vintage downtown theater where guests can join Bugs Bunny on stage, and Cartoon Junction Carousel, a colorful twist on a classic carousel. Cartoon Junction is also home to ACME Factory which features three kid-friendly rides of its own, including Ricochet Racin’ with Taz, a car ride that whips racers around a track, and Daffy’s Jet-Propelled Pogo Stick, featuring a vertical ‘jump’ tower, Tweety Wild Wockets, a fun ride that spins its passengers “awound and awound” as they try to avoid that “bad ol’ puddy tat,” Sylvester.

Hungry guests drop in at ACME Commissary, where quick service food is served with ACME flair, and those with a sweet tooth can indulge in a sweet treat at Huckleberry Hound Pies, Penelope Pitstop Cotton Candy, Daffy Snacks, or Yogi Bear and Boo Boo Ice Cream.

Fans in search of themed-souvenirs should stop at the ACME Company Store, which is dedicated to fun and play—the Looney Tunes way, and C.J. Mercantile,Cartoon Junction’s General Store located in the town’s emporium, to find souvenirs inspired by fan-favorite characters. This vibrant land is also home to the Hare Salon, a shop that celebrates Bugs Bunny’s fun disguises and Fudd Hardware, featuring Elmer Fudd‘s collection of toys and tools for kids,

Stay tuned for more exciting information on the park’s six uniquely themed lands, as well as details on the opening date and more.

World Class Roster of Bestselling Authors Tapped to Pen Original Graphic Novels that Will Bring DC’s Iconic Super Heroes to a Whole New Generation of Young Readers

DC Ink and DC Zoom All-Star Talent Line-up Includes Laurie Halse Anderson, Meg Cabot, Melissa de la Cruz, Shea Fontana, Kami Garcia, Minh Lê, Marie Lu, Lauren Myracle, Michael Northrop, Danielle Paige, Ridley Pearson, Mariko Tamaki, Gene Yang, and more!

Burbank, Calif., February 5, 2018 – DC Entertainment revealed two new original graphic novel publishing imprints today, DC Ink focused on young adult (YA) readers, and DC Zoom focused on middle grade (MG) readers. Both imprints will feature a world class line-up of authors who have established YA and MG fan bases. These authors will bring their storytelling expertise to a DC Universe filled with iconic characters like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and many more. The first titles from DC Ink and DC Zoom will be released in Fall 2018.

“Superheroes are more popular than ever so it only makes sense to bring these DC characters to an entirely new generation of young readers,” stated Diane Nelson, president of DC Entertainment and president of Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “The first comic books created decades ago were for kids, and as the business evolved and matured, it became more focused on adult readers. DC Ink and DC Zoom present an exciting new opportunity to grow our publishing business and ensure beloved stories built around iconic characters like Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman are endeared as part of the fabric of childhood for years to come.”

“Two of the recent areas of growth in publishing include graphic novels and books for young readers – we’re bringing those formats together with DC Ink and DC Zoom,” said DC Entertainment Publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee. “We’ve already experienced tremendous success with our DC Super Hero Girls graphic novels. The new DC Ink and DC Zoom slate, paired with a stellar author line-up, presents a major business growth opportunity and we couldn’t be more excited – we’re going big.”

The first titles from DC Ink include HARLEY QUINN: BREAKING GLASS by Mariko Tamaki (SUPERGIRL: BEING SUPER) with art by Steve Pugh, and MERA by Danielle Paige (DOROTHY MUST DIE series). The first title to hit shelves from DC Zoom will be DC SUPER HERO GIRLS: SEARCH FOR ATLANTIS from writer Shea Fontana and artist Yancey Labat. All three titles will go on sale in Fall 2018, with many more titles from DC Ink and DC Zoom set to follow in 2019.

Additional confirmed upcoming titles and authors for DC Ink include:

• BATMAN: GOTHAM HIGH – Melissa de la Cruz (ALEX & ELIZA, BLUE BLOODS series, WITCHES OF EAST END series)
• BATMAN: NIGHTWALKER – THE GRAPHIC NOVEL – Marie Lu (LEGEND series)
• TEEN TITANS – Kami Garcia (BEAUTIFUL CREATURES series)
• UNDER THE MOON: A CATWOMAN TALE – Lauren Myracle (INTERNET GIRLS series, KISSING KATE)
• WONDER WOMAN: TEMPEST TOSSED – Laurie Halse Anderson (SPEAK and CHAINS)

Additional confirmed titles and authors for DC Zoom include:

• BATMAN TALES: ONCE UPON A CRIME – writer and artist: Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen (BATMAN: LI’L GOTHAM)
• BATMAN: OVERDRIVE – Shea Fontana (DC SUPER HERO GIRLS series)
• BLACK CANARY: IGNITE – Meg Cabot (THE PRINCESS DIARIES series)
• DEAR JUSTICE LEAGUE – Michael Northrop (TOMBQUEST series)
• GREEN LANTERN: LEGACY – Minh Lê (DRAWN TOGETHER)
• SUPER SONS – Ridley Pearson (KINGDOM KEEPERS series)
• SUPERMAN OF SMALLVILLE – writer and artist: Art Baltazar & Franco (TINY TITANS)
• SUPERMAN SMASHES THE KLAN – Gene Yang (AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER series, NEW SUPER-MAN), will be released as periodicals first, then collected