Jace sat down with Mark Waid at SDCC 2024 to talk about his upcoming weekly run on Action Comics. Also the long-awaited return of the Justice League, including the Watch Tower satellite, raises the question of who is on the team. Maybe the better question is, who isn't on the team. Mark also touches on the Absolute Power event and his excitement to be teaming up with artist Chris Samnee again to tell a story set during the earliest days of Batman and Robin's partnership.
Jace had a chance to sit down with G. Willow Wilson at SDCC 2024 and chat about all things Poison Ivy. From her somewhat two-dimensional roots as a character to perhaps the most relevant mission of any DC character with the current state of the natural world and climate shift, it's clear that G. Willow has a unique handle on Pamela. With so many different versions over the years, the challenge for G. Willow has been trying to bring all those iterations together to tell one cohesive narrative. If you've been reading Poison Ivy, you know that G. Willow has been very successful elevating Poison Ivy in the modern DCU.
Jace chats with co-creator of the Winds of Numa Sera, Morgan Rosenblum about the Kickstarter campaign for the board game based on the Dark Horse Original Graphic Novel. Morgan chats about the various iterations of the game as it has gone through development. He explains the multiple win conditions and other attributes of the game that make it infinitely replayable. Plus, he shows off some of the special items that you can only get with the Kickstarter version of the game. The funding goal has been met, so bid with confidence knowing that you will have a great game to play with family and friends over and over.
Jace sits down with MMA World Champion Ronda Rousey, veteran comic artist Mike Deodato and AWA Studios Chief Creative Officer Axel Alonso at SDCC 2024 to talk about the Kickstart Campaign for Expecting The Unexpected. Ronda talks about her journey to becoming a writer while Deodato talks about the collaboration that works specifically for this project. Alonso mentions how impressed he was with the story right from the start which he first learned about at SDCC 2023.
Jace chats with AWA Studios Chief Creative Officer Axel Alonso about the Kickstart Campaign for Expecting The Unexpected from MMA legend Ronda Rousey and veteran comic book artist Mike Deodato Jr. It's a wild action-packed story of an assassin on the run who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant and wonders how she will go from taking life to bringing new life into the world. A deeply personal story from Rousey, this is her debut graphic novel and from the intriguing premise to the ultra-realistic fight scenes, this is a must-read. Learn more about the project from Axel and be sure to check out the campaign on Kickstarter.
We had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with Joshua Dysart and Tomas Giorello as Bad Idea HQ during San Diego Comic Con 2024. There was plenty of talk about Odinn's Eye and how the collaborative nature of the project elevated the work from both creators. Also some hints at a possible sequel. Plus Tomas chats a bit about the upcoming Planet Death project he is working on for the publisher and Joshua teases his next project with art from David Lapham, Habitat.
Jace and Rocky talk about the DC Comics titles for the week of August 7, 2024. It's not the best week with some titles leaning towards underwhelming, but the Absolute Power event marches on with tons of action. Plus Batman and Catwoman are trying to pull off a heist with huge stakes and things go about as badly as they could. We get the end of the Zod and Beetle titles, and the launch of a new Gotham City Sirens. Join us to hear about these titles and more!
Jace chatted with Nick Dragotta and Scott Snyder about the highly anticipated Absolute Batman at the recent San Diego Comic Con. The first of the rumored Absolute Universe titles to be seen, the development process for this version of Batman is very interesting. Snyder has talked at it at various times, and mentions it here, that using this version of Batman as an example of what Absolute version of the DC characters would look like. This was how he pitched the concept of the DC Absolute Universe to other creators and DC themselves. We certainly have seen many versions of Batman over the years and some of them have been very different when it comes to Elseworld tales, however, coupled with the incredible visuals of Nick Dragotta this feels like a singularly unique take on the character that has the potential to reach new fans or fans who haven't had a particular affinity for Batman before. Dragotta's designs are awesome and it was great to see his enthusiasm for the project. Also to hear him say he wants to do an log epic run is encouraging when we see so many artist move on from things quickly in the current state of the industry. When it comes to Snyder, you might be as surprised as we were to find out that he had some reservations about returning to an ongoing Batman title. Hearing him talk about why, though, it makes a lot of sense. Scott has always had a fear of failure, which is what has him constantly striving to give his all. We've always found that Snyder's work is at it's best when it is most personal and hearing his comments about Absolute Batman and how he relates him to his sons has our expectations very high for this series. There's lots more to unpack in the interview including Alfred and villains both old and new, so join us.
Absolute Superman #1 - November 6th, Writer - Jason Aaron, Artist - Rafa Sandoval, Color Artist - Ulises Arreola
Absolute Superman debuts in comic shops on November 6th, but writer Jason Aaron gives us some hints of what to expect live from SDCC 2024. Aaron discusses keeping the core of the character the same while creating a different backstory for a Superman who is very isolated. We also get some hints of how Kal-El may be honoring or perhaps mourning the loss of his home world. How he arrives on Earth and his upbringing remain a mystery, but it is clear that Aaron is very excited about what's to come. This is a common theme among the creators at DC involved in the Alll In initiative, many of them expressed the temptation to say too much in their eagerness to share the stories they have crafted with DC fans.
At SDCC 2024 we attended the Energon Universe Press Room from Skybound. In attendance from the publisher were Senior VP/EIC Sean Mackiewicz, Chairman/Co-Founder Robert Kirkman, Artist Tom Reilly and writers Joshua Williamson and Daniel Warren Johnson. It was at last year's comic con that the Energon Universe really kicked into high gear with the preview of Johnson's Transformers #1 handed out during the Energon Panel. Also the barest of hints were given about how the G.I. Joe property and characters would be introduced and incorporated into the Energon Universe by Williamson. Well, what a year it has been, by all accounts the Energon books have been a critical and commercial hit with long-time fans of these properties as well as new fans enjoying the incredibly rich universe Skybound has built in only a year. There's plenty for the panel to talk about when it comes to fans, both new and old, as well as some teases on what's to come. The recently announce G.I. Joe team book will arrive later this year from the creative team of Williamson and Reilly and attendees of this year's Energon panel got a sneak peak along with a special ashcan preview. It is clear that the sky is the limit for this universe with passionate creators like these, along with those creators not in attendance, at the helm. You can hear the press conference in it's entirety on our podcast feed or watch it on The Comic Source YouTube channel. You will also find the fill press release and preview art for the 2024 Energon Panel below.
Jace chats with the creative minds behind Black Market Narrative. From their action-packed Massive-Verse titles to the true crime noir feel on the streets of Pittsburgh that we get in No/One, it's clear that this group is at the top of their game. Kyle Higgins kicks it off with some exciting news about an upcoming No/One feature film that is going to level up the immersion of this story even beyond the amazing podcast that already accompanies the series. Plus Kyle talks a bit about getting back in track with Radiant Black starting next year when the book will go back to being released once a month. Brian Buccellato, Kyle's writing partner on No/One chats with us about conspiracies and the end of the series with issue #10 that may see some fans wondering why they question of No/One's identity was left unanswered. Melissa Flores talks about The Dead Lucky and what comes next for Bibi now that she has driven Morrow out of San Francisco. We finish up with Ryan Parrott, who has taken Rogue Sun on quite a journey already, but it's safe to say, there are a lot of villains to come!
Jace and Rocky talk about a very small week for DC Comics with only 3 titles dropping. We get the conclusion of the Red Hood story set in the Hill, plenty of Super-Pets abound in the Bitedentity Crisis and another Amazo robot is revealed in Task Force VII.
Jace chats with writers Derek Kolstad (John Wick, Nobody) and Robert Venditti (Tankers, Hank Howard, Pizza Detective) about their upcoming project from Bad Idea, Planet Death. Kolstad gives the origin of the project and how it went from story treatment to comic while Venditti talks about the excitement of helping to adapt the story from the start. Also the art work from Tomas Giorello is absolutely next level. There's a lot to unpack here so dig in!
Jace welcomes writer J.M Dematteis back to the show to talk about the second phase of his DeMultiverse project. In case you aren't familiar, J.M. reminds us what each of the books is about and the guys dive a little bit into the themes of the stories. With incredible narratives, spectacular linework and gorgeous colors these are stories that offer such a depth of story while providing so much variety. Be sure to listen in and go join the campaign.
Jace and Rocky chat about the DC Comics titles for the week of July 24, 2024. It's the week of San Diego Comic Con so Jace kicks it off by wondering if this should be a skip week for the books as so much of the attention in the world of comics is focused on the biggest convention of the year. The guys then dive into the books as Absolute Power starts to ramp up, a new chapter of Nice House kicks off and the Batman of Dark Age gets a sidekick. Listen in for details on all these books, plus how have Jace's feelings for Amanda Waller changed? You didn't think it was possible, but it has happened!
Jace chats with Sara Kenney and Kiana Firouz about the recently released She Could Fly Documentary Escape Game. Inspired by the incredible She Could Fly comic by Christopher Cantwell and Martin Morazzo this game is designed to help dispel the misinformation and cliches associated with OCD. Drawing from documentary style clips from real people who live with OCD, the game is hugely educational and emotional at times. The puzzles are engaging and entertaining with proceeds going to programs to help strengthen mental health services.
Jace chats with Michael Calero and Kevin Roditeli from Massive Publishing about what sets them apart from other publishers. Also, they chat about some of the partnerships they have had so far and their upcoming partnership with Devil's Due for the Disavowed series that will make it's debut with an ashcan at SDCC 2024. Plus what other plans and exclusives are in store for comic con.
Jace and Rocky breakdown the October solicitations from DC Comics. With the release of these not only has DC confirmed the rumored creative teams for the new Absolute Universe, they have also revealed the new creative teams for many titles in the main line. Several titles will have the same creative teams returning and with few exceptions these seem to be the titles that are selling the best.
With these announcements it is clear that DC is, indeed, ALL IN on trying to revitalize a line that has been relatively well received critically over recent years, but as lagged in sales. It remains to be seen whether the excitement of this initiative can bring back lapsed readers, and more importantly, attract new fans.
The recent All In announcement on YouTube from Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson appears to have meet with mostly a positive reaction. More details about what’s to come starting in October will be revealed at the rapidly approaching San Deigo Comic Con.
Jace is joined by filmmaker Julia Marchese to chat about her short-film, I Know What You Need. Made through Stephen King's “Dollar Baby” program, the film is styled as a 1970s after school special and uniquely, was actually shot at the University of Maine, in the exact locations mentioned in the story. The film has played in festivals worldwide, earning more than 15 awards to date. “Dollar Baby” was an arrangement in which iconic author Stephen King would grant permission to students and aspiring filmmakers theater producers to adapt one of his short stories for just $1.King retains the rights to his work, but as he began to experience commercial success, he decided to use his platform to help the next generation of creatives. When the program’s overseer retired, the program came to an end, making Marchese one of the final recipients of this generosity.
Synopsis: It's 1976, and popular college co-ed Elizabeth (Caroline Renee) meets an unusual boy, Edward (William Champion), who knows what she needs. But who is Edward really, and what secrets is he hiding? It's a love story, but a Stephen King love story, so things aren't always what they seem! Elizabeth doesn't know what she wants, but Edward knows what she needs.
Check out the trailer HERE
“I Know What You Need” will have its Comic-Con debut at their film festival section on Friday, July 26 at 1:45 PM in Grand Ballroom 6 at the San Diego Marriott Marquis. In addition, it will be added to ArrowPlayer, the streaming home to cult cinema, on Friday, July 12.
Marchese is additionally the host on three popular podcasts, Horror Movie Survival Guide, JodoWOWsky and The Loser's Club. She also co-hosts Horror X, a video show collaboration between The George A. Romero Foundation and Horror Movie Survival Guide, celebrating women in horror.
Jace welcome writer Samuel Sattin to the show to talk about his reimagining of the classic Osamu Tezuka mange Unico. A daunting task for any writer, we talk with Samuel about the challenge of ensuring his story honors the original story of the "Godfather of Manga". The guys also chat about the universal themes of the story and the brilliance of Tezuka's original vision for the story. There are lots of influences in both the original and the soon to be released Unico: Awakenings, but Disney is clearly one of them, so be sure to listen to this awesome conversation that includes Samuel's plans for San Diego Comic Con 2024.
Jace is joined by Tommy Vargas from Factory Entertainment to chat about the exclusives that will be available at SDCC 2024 and on the website all during Comic Con Week also. Plus tommy talks about the role Factory Entertainment plays in the collectible marketplace and how everyone at the company is a fan first. This helps ensure that the collectibles made by them are of the highest quality.
Jace welcomes writer Joe Henderson to the show to chat about his debut DSTLRY title The Big Burn. Joe is re-teaming with artist and fellow storyteller Lee Garbett to give us the ultimate heist story. What do you do when the devil has your soul, hell is a casino and you are a master thief? You recruit a crew of your fellow damned criminals and you plan a heist to steal them back! Filled with incredible line work from Lee and all out action in the narrative this is a must-read series. Joe brings the emotion as always and we can't wait to see where this story goes. Join us as Joe breaks it all down and tells us how the project got started.
Jace welcomes Charles Soule back to the show to chat about his incredible concept album for Curse Words. Drawing from Charles's extensive background in music the album draw from many influences to bring the wild and humorous story that is Curse Words to life in song. Charles talks about his musical journey which began at the age of 3 with the violin and how how coming back to music after some time away was immensely rewarding. There's talk of Star Wars, the Shrouded College, Eight Billions Genies and other comic work also. Be sure to go check out the campaign for the album, it will blow you away!
Jace and Ricky chat about the DC books for the week of July 17, 2024. Superman ties into Absolute Power in the best possible way and we get a look at how the event is impacting a lot of different characters. We return to the Dark Knights of Steel corner of the DC universe for the start of a very dark tale and Hellblazer continues his dark journey as well. Speaking of journeys Dick Grayson is in search of a cure for his inability to leap and that quest is taking him far from Bludhaven. Get our thoughts on all these books and more in this episode.
Jace welcomes Michael Hirsh to the show to chat about his book Animation Nation. Michael is the award-winning creator of many animated TV series that have left an indelible mark on pop culture. He shares his journey that led him to animation at a relatively young age, give his thoughts on the best advice for the aspiring animators of today and talk about the evolving role technology has had in developing and producing animated content. Plus, find out where you can find Michael at SDCC 2024. You can read details about Michael's SDCC appearance and the full press release for Animation Nation and below.