Newsarama reviews Wanted 2 Disc DVD Set

As comic book fans around the world know all too well, the cinematic version of Mark Millar and J.G. Jones’ Wanted strayed in a number of ways from the source material.

That doesn’t mean Wanted is a bad movie. Hardly. And the main reason for that is the film's secret weapon (if you'll pardon the pun) - director Timur Bekmambetov.

This last decade Bekmambetov has become one of the most cutting edge, influential directors of horror, fantasy, and just plain innovative filmmaking thanks in large part to his last two films, Night Watch (2004) and it’s sequel, Day Watch (2006).

READ MORE.

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Paul Dini talks Star Wars and Jingle Belle

The next episode of Star Wars: Clone Wars should be one that will interest Jedi and Dark Knight fans alike. It marks the return of Paul Dini to George Lucas’ universe.

Note the word, “return.”

What many don’t realize is this is not the first time Dini worked on a Star Wars project. Years before he worked on Batman: The Animated Series, before he worked with Bruce Timm, Dini was a staff writer, story editor and producer of the series Ewoks & Droids for Nelvana. So, his writing the upcoming episode “Cloak of Darkness” is something a coming home. Then again, when one hears what the episode is about, it’s totally understandable.

While this is also the holiday season, and Mr. Dini is just about to release his latest adventures of one of his best spunky female characters ever, we felt it appropriate to talk about that book a bit, too. As any Jedi fan knows, the universe is full of amazing things, big and small. Some new Jingle Belle tales sure fit that order. READ MORE.

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NEW DOWNLOADS

Every week we add new downloads, So be sure to check them out!.
This weeks new downloads only at topcow.com.



- 1 NEW Dragon Prince wallpaper
- 1 NEW Impaler banner
- 2 NEW avatars from Witchblade and Berserker

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CBR claims DRAGON PRINCE would work great as animated film in its review of issue #3

Ah, the third issue where the plot slows down, so things can be explained -— this structure is strangely New Reader Friendly. I didn’t read the first two issues of “Dragon Prince,” but this issue is so easy to follow along that I wasn’t lost at all. Aaron is a dragon, or half-dragon since his mother is human, and he’s been captured by a group called the Magi that hunt dragons, supposedly to protect humanity.

There’s something very familiar about that plot. It’s not a rip-off of anything specific, but the general ideas are very basic and general: a young boy finds out he’s got a secret heritage with two groups telling him conflicting things, each trying to win him over. But, Ron Marz makes this generic sort of plot work with subtle hints that Aaron is also aware of stories like that, and is wary of everything he’s told. He doesn’t believe what Madigan, leader of the Magi tells him, but he also doesn’t disbelieve. The character is remarkably self-aware, but that self-awareness is downplayed and mostly hinted at. READ MORE.

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Milo Ventimiglia appears on G4's "Attack of the Show" to talk about his comic projects including Top Cow's Berserker!

Can't see this video click here.

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David Hine mentions upcoming Darkness/Top Cow work

Writer David Hine of the current comic book from Todd McFarlane Productions Spawn stops by the Septagon News Blog to talk about his upcoming and current comic book projects. Fans of Spawn and Hine’s earlier work with Marvel’s X-Men and Strange Embrace should be prepared for another ride of great twisted storytelling.
NICKD: Thanks for doing this interview David. We greatly appreciate it. So let’s get things rolling over here…tell us about yourself? Where did you grow up?

DH: I was born in the south-west of England. I had a very rural upbringing, very provincial. My parents didn’t have a car so the boundaries of my world were limited to a day’s cycling. Books and comics were my escape. I spent most of my time reading and making up my own stories. I wrote my first science-fiction novel when I was eight, (though it was a very short novel).

NICKD: How long have you worked in the comic book industry and what got you started? Who were your influences as a kid? And what inspires you? READ MORE.

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New review of The Darkness video game

The Darkness is a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 exclusive first person shooter video game that fell under radar. It was one of those game that was completely lost due to all the BioShock madness and based on the comic book the Top Cow. Ironically enough, 2K games (the same game company responsible for The Darkness) made both The Chronicles of Riddick and BioShock. The storyline of The Darkness transpires in New York, and it is about a youthful 21 year old Mafia gang member named Jackie Estacado. He ascertains that his own Mafia (led by Uncle Paulie) is attempting to murder him; moreover, Uncle Paulie sends out a hit on Jackie and his girlfriend Jenny because Uncle Paulie believes that Jackie has stabbed him in the back. Jackie evades death and begins his journey for vengeance. Deceitful plot twists will no doubt keep players interested in the storyline from start to finish.

READ MORE.

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MTV covers Seth Green appearance on "Heroes"

In what can only be described as art imitating life, tonight on “Heroes” — part one of the multi-part “The Eclipse” storyline — noted celebrity comic geeks Seth Green and his buddy Breckin Meyer play the role of, well, geeks, who run a comic book shop. In this quick clip, while giving a shout-out to “Red Hulk,” the two soon realize that a real-life superhero has ominously dropped by the store. READ MORE.

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Comic Geek Speak Book of the Month follow-up on Witchblade Vols. 2 and 3 trade paperbacks

Comic Geek Speak does a Book of the Month follow-up episode on the Witchblade Vols. 2 and 3 trade paperbacks

Episode 547 - BOMC Encore - Witchblade Volumes 2 & 3
2008-11-20

We continue our look at Witchblade with Volumes 2 & 3. This is not your father's Witchblade.

READ MORE.

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Seth Green on HEROES!

FRESHMEN co-creator Seth Green guest stars on the Nov. 24 episode of "Heroes," playing the co-owner of a comic book shop! Breckin Meyer ("Road Trip," "Clueless") also guest stars.

Click here to see a short clip of them in the episode. Breckin can be seen wearing a FRESHMEN T-shirt!

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NEW WANTED VIDEO GAME SCREEN SHOTS

Pro-gamers.fr published 10 new pictures of Wanted: Weapon of fate video game

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NEW DOWNLOADS

Every week we add new downloads, So be sure to check them out!.
This weeks new downloads only at topcow.com.
- 1 NEW Darkness wallpaper
-1 NEW Witchblade banner
-2 NEW avatars from Dragon Prince and Impaler

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IN STORES THIS WEEK

Wanted Movie Edition Trade Paperback
(W) Mark Millar (A) J.G. Jones (Cov) Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Filled with iconic images from the hit movie plus original interviews with the cast and director, this brand-new collection of the hit mini-series is a must for every movie-loving comic book fan. Featuring a movie photo cover, this hot trade paperback is also perfect for those who’ve seen the film but have never read the source material!

Full Color 224 pages $19.99 Trade Paperback
READ MORE.

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Weekly Comic Book Review reviews BROKEN TRINITY #3

Some Thoughts Before The Review: In a market crowded by event books, I have found myself pleasantly surprised by Top Cow’s Broken Trinity crossover. It has proven that an epic, satisfying crossover event can be told in under six months and without dozens of tie-ins. That said, after reading Broken Trinity #2, I couldn’t help but feel that the story would have been better told in four parts as opposed to three. Everything about chapter two felt rushed, so I come into the “fatal conclusion” with my expectations

a bit lower than they were, following the excellent Broken Trinity#1.

The Story: As it says on the cover, Broken Trinity #3 is all about bringing the Top Cow crossover to a “fatal conclusion.” The stakes have never been higher as the Witchblade bearer, the Darkness host, the Angelus, and the two new artifact bearers (Finn and Glori) battle it out in New York City. And for those of you wondering, the story actually makes good on the tagline’s promise, as a major player in the Top Cow universe is killed in this issue.

What’s Good: Broken Trinity #3 delivers in pretty much every way; especially with an action-packed conclusion to a crossover event. The artwork by Stjepan Sejic and Phil Hester is extremely impressive throughout the book and at times, simply stunning. It adds a weight and intensity to Ron Marz’s epic clash of powers. As for the story, it proves to be both a fitting conclusion and an interesting launching point for the future of the Top Cow universe. READ MORE.

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Newsarama’s Best Shots reviews THE DARKNESS #7

The Darkness #7
Writer: Phil Hester
Pencils: Jorge Lucas
Colors: Lee Loughridge
From: Top Cow Comics
Reviewed by: Richard Renteria

The current issue of Darkness makes the perfect entry point for any reader curious about the character. While not dwelling on his somewhat complex history and by minimizing the continuity of Jackie Estacado and his relationship with his curse, the Darkness, the story moves at a rather brisk pace with some fun twists and turns.

Interestingly enough for a character who has been defined by his look for most of his existence there is little trace of the Darkness with the exception of a brief flashback that does an excellent job of succinctly capturing the overall effects of Estacado’s curse but not dwelling to long on the explanations making for a more coherent read.

The setting and premise of the story is nothing new to the horror genre; man stumbles on a town with a dark secret, in this case a witch who protects the town in exchange for their dreams, which he must somehow escape. Again not the most original concept but thanks to the fluid writing style of Phil Hester the issue manages to give the well-worn premise a slight spit-shine which allows readers new and old the chance to get a clear idea of who the main character is and the curse he carries with him, while still telling an entertaining story. Hester also adds a new layer to Estacado’s life in the form of a potential sidekick in the vein of Batman’s Robin. READ MORE.

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GEN reviews SAVAGE DRAGON #140, which features a cameo by Witchblade!

Savage Dragon is aided by some of Image’s most recognizable characters. But can they help him take out the uncontrollable Solar Man?
Summary: As you all know, this past summer Erik Larsen stepped down from his Image Comics Publisher duties to put his full concentration on his creative endeavors including the long-running Savage Dragon and the upcoming Image Comics Founders mega-event next summer, Image United.

This issue of Savage Dragon is where the two collide, as Image Partner characters Invincible, Spawn, Witchblade and Shadowhawk lend a hand against long-time Dragon villain, Solar Man.

It’s the first part of a two parter, so it’s the perfect place to jump on board. There’s going to be a very big announcement for Savage Dragon soon making this definitely a good time to be reading.

Review: I will be honest here. I began this comic clueless as how to review a title on its 140th issue that I had (sadly) never read before. However, I managed to strike a bit of luck with the particular issue, as more familiar characters – notably Witchblade and Spawn – made an appearance in the book. With my nerves sated notably by familiar faces, I entered unknown territory. READ MORE.

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Seth Green talks to LA Times

I got a chance to talk the other day to Seth Green who, as always, was a man in major motion. "There's a lot going on these days," he said. "But there's always a lot going on, right?" This week Green was in New York for the final episode of MTV's "Total Request Live," he was in L.A. chatting up Kevin and Bean at KROQ-FM and then he was jetting north to the Bay Area to meet with Lucasfilm folks about his ongoing and quirky relationship with the "Star Wars" universe. Green is, of course, a busy actor (more on that later) but he is especially near and dear to hearts of fanboys everywhere for his work on "Robot Chicken," the deliriously funny pop-culture spoof show that is at its very best when goofing on "Star Wars" and its mythology.

Green and his "Robot Chicken" puppeteer partners-in-crime have returned to the universe of the Jedi for "Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode II," which Green directed and which makes its premiere at 11:30 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 16) on Adult Swim. As usual, it's got fall-down-funny satire of the greatest space opera of them and features voice contributions from Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams, Seth MacFarlane, Ahmed Best and Conan O’Brien, just to name a few. (I've got some images here from it as sneak peek; I got a good chuckle out of the Imperial stormtrooper who made the mistake of participating in "Bring Your Daughter to Work Day," which you can see after the jump...) READ MORE.

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Fearnet talks to William Harms about IMPALER

I had the chance to speak with William Harms, creator of the vampire comic Impaler, about the comic, his creative process and the future of the series. Impaler tells the story of Vlad the Impaler, most commonly rendered as a vampire in fiction, who in this story is actually a vampire slayer. When a new vampire threat engulfs New York City, he returns from the depths of time to defend humanity, and teams up with a police office, Victor, in the battle of a lifetime (or several). Read on for scoops on where the title is headed and what’s in store for its characters!

Tell us about the history of Impaler.

Basically, it started out as a series with Image Central, that started in October of 1996, and three issues were released through them. Then the sales weren’t quite what we needed, regardless of the book’s acclaim, to go on. So my agent took it to Top Cow, and that’s how it ended up there. From there, there’s been a large gap in the publishing, but that’s just because of scheduling and talkbacks and all that kind of stuff. READ MORE.

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February Solicitations

TOP COW February SOLICITATIONS

-The Darkness #75
(W) Phil Hester (A) Broussard, Keown, Benitez, Timson, Carter, Irving and more! (Cov) Lee Bermejo, Dale Keown, Stjepan Sejic, Michael Broussard

An all-star cast of artists assembles in this oversized book to illustrate the historic 75th overall issue of The Darkness. Combining all three volumes of The Darkness since its debut in 1996, we’re renumbering the current series to pay tribute to the legacy of this rich and storied character.

Journey into a bleak and twisted future to witness humanity’s struggle to survive amongst the wreckage of the eternal conflict between The Darkness and The Angelus. Can Jackie Estacado step off this path to ultimate destruction or will he allow The Darkness to turn him into a global tyrant?

Cover A – Lee Bermejo (wraparound)
Cover B – Dale Keown
Cover C – Stjepan Sejic
Cover D – Michael Broussard

Full Color 48 pages $4.99 ongoing series




-Witchblade Annual 2009
(W) Jay Faerber (A) Eric Basaldua (Cov) Sami Basri, Eric Basaldua

Presenting the first Witchblade Annual issue ever, complete with a new, original self-contained story by writer Jay Faerber (Pilot Season: Urban Myths, Noble Causes) and artist Eric Basaldua (Witchblade/Devi, Ultimate Fantastic Four). Includes a second bonus story!

Beautiful women all over the city are killing men they don't even know, and then claiming they don't even remember the events. When Sara and partner Gleason are assigned to investigate the case, they're thrown head first into the dangerous and deadly world of…plastic surgery?

Cover A – Sami Basri
Cover B – Eric Basaldua

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 annual


-Velocity #2
(W) Joe Casey (A) ChrisCross (Cov) ChrisCross and Snakebite, Stjepan Sejic

The new series for this Pilot Season 2007 winner continues! From the pages of Marc Silvestri’s Cyberforce comes a new solo title for this Top Cow super speedster!

When Carin Taylor, a.k.a. Velocity, turns down an offer to work for a corporate mogul, he doesn’t take it well! Before she knows it, she’s attacked by a small army of private soldiers and not one, but TWO assailants who can literally keep pace with her! It’ll take a familiar face from her past to help her get out of this jam!

Cover A – ChrisCross and Snakebite
Cover B – Stjepan Sejic
Full Color 32 pages $2.99 ongoing series


-Top Cow Spring 2009 Preview Book
(W) Rick Loverd and others (A) Various (Cov) Dale Keown

Get a sneak peek at some of the exciting new projects coming from Top Cow in 2009!

This Preview Book features an original Berserker story, the new comic series produced by “Heroes” star Milo Ventimiglia and his DiVide Pictures partner, Russ Cundiff. Created by screenwriter Rick Loverd, Berserker combines elements of superheroes with Norse mythology. Throw in some bone-crushing violence and punch-in-the-mouth action and you’ve got a recipe for a great Top Cow book!

That’s just the beginning! Also in this Preview Book is an exciting glimpse at a diverse mix of other projects coming from Top Cow in 2009. You don’t want to miss it!

Full Color 24 pages $2.99 preview book

Berserker Lithograph
(ART BY) Dale Keown

Dale Keown’s raw and feral Berserker image can now be yours in this limited, numbered lithograph, accompanied by a Top Cow Certificate of Authenticity and shipped in a protective sleeve.

Full Color 11”x17” $29.99 lithograph


-Broken Trinity Deluxe Hardcover
(W) Ron Marz (A) Stjepan Sejic, Phil Hester, Jorge Lucas, Brian Stelfreeze, Nelson Blake II (Cov) Stjepan Sejic

This Premiere Hardcover collects all six issues of 2008’s blockbuster storyline, Broken Trinity, plus a slew of bonus material, from a cover gallery to behind-the-scenes commentary. Much like 2007’s First Born story arc, Broken Trinity upsets the status quo of the Top Cow Universe as one of the three principal characters in the never-ending battle between Light and Dark—Witchblade, The Darkness and The Angelus—dies, never to return. In addition, new characters enter the fray, setting the stage for a new ongoing series to debut later in 2009!

Full Color 176 pages $34.99 hardcover


Broken Trinity #3 Eric Basaldua Top Cow Store Variant
(W) Ron Marz (A) Stjepan Sejic, Phil Hester (Cov) Eric Basaldua

A beautiful, sensual cover conceived by the supremely talented Basaldua (Hunter-Killer, Ultimate Fantastic Four), available in limited supply.

Full Color 32 pages $10.00 convention exclusive



-The Darkness Novel 2
(W) Kerri Hawkins

In this second installment of The Darkness novel series by author Kerri Hawkins (Blood Legacy), Jackie Estacado struggles to control his branch of the triumvirate powers of the universe while still operating as a mafia hitman. Caught between his earthly enemies and his supernatural foes, Jackie’s greatest battle might be with the black force residing within him.

Jackie loves little beyond himself, but when his childhood friend Jenny is threatened, his hard-edged persona is tested. He begins to understand that The Darkness has its own agenda, and although the dark power might help him, it might also consume him…

B/W 160 pages $6.99 novel

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Eric Basaldua on Fanboy Radio

Scott and Oliver speak with beloved comic artist, Eric Basaldua, unpack from their crazy weekend at Wizard World Texas, chat with live callers and breeze through a few Sub or Flubs and news bites, all for your listening enjoyment. READ MORE.

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Luke Goss talks MAGDALENA movie

We’ve been hearing a lot from the ladies behind “Magdalena” — what with our week-long sting with Jenna Dewan and our recent chat with the film’s producer Gale Ann Hurd — but what about the film’s male lead, Luke Goss? (You might remember him as Prince Nuada in “Hellboy II“).

He was in New York recently to be honored by the Motion Picture Club as a “Star of Tomorrow,” just across the street from Splash Page HQ, so we made a beeline over to the event to get the lowdown — and wouldn’t you know it? He’s actually a Splash Page fan. (”I’ve seen the coverage, it’s been exciting,” Goss blurted out before we could even get out the first question.) It certainly helped in loosening his lips about how he got involved in the project and what he’s doing for it right now. READ MORE.

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CBR REVIEWS IMPALER VOL 1 TRADE

Between series like "Buffy," "Twilight," and "First Blood," there have been many re-imaginings of the vampire myth in recent pop culture. “Impaler” sees horror writer William Harms bring his version to the arena of comics.

In order to differentiate his take on vampires from all the others, Harms concentrates not on the romance and nobility of the immortal creatures (as many re-imaginings do) but on the predatory brutality of the vampire creatures, and their devastating effect on society. While Harms’ vampires are markedly different from the traditional ones in terms of both weaknesses and appearance, the fundamental terrors of the vampire threat remains, and it’s that which allows them the luxury of the name.

In an unusual casting choice, Harms chooses an immortal Vlad the Impaler as the only person readily equipped to deal with the infestation. It’s a unique choice, since Vlad, the historical figure generally accepted as the original inspiration Count Dracula, is usually cast as a vampire rather than the vampire slayer – although, it seems as though the casting choice relies on that prior knowledge for readers to really appreciate the nuance of it.

The book’s artwork is a bit of a mixed bag. The opening issues are drawn by Nick Postic, who specialized in slightly abstract urban panoramas. The vampiric creatures look best here, and his panels often depict beautiful, almost frozen scenes. Unfortunately, as a comic, this approach doesn’t necessarily work, and it loses a lot of storytelling scope as a result. Panels feel disconnected, and it makes it a tough read more like a storyboard than an actual comic. READ MORE.

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Greg Horn Cover for JINGLE BELLE Revealed!

We are happy to reveal the second cover for the forthcoming Top Cow book, Jingle Belle: Santa Claus Vs. Frankenstein!

This stunning yet playful cover was drawn by Wizard Fan Award-winning artist Greg Horn (Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk) and features the book’s title character, Jingle Belle. This one-shot issue kicks off the move of superstar creator Paul Dini’s line of characters in the Dinicartoons universe to Top Cow.

Jingle Belle: Santa Claus Vs. Frankenstein
(W) Paul Dini (A) Stephanie Gladden (Cov) Stephanie Gladden, Greg Horn

Paul Dini’s JINBLE BELLE comes to Top Cow in a special “Halloween collides with Christmas” one-shot written by Dini and drawn by Stephanie Gladden (POWERPUFF GIRLS, CHOWDER, HOPSTER’S TRACKS). In years past, Santa has triumphed over a variety of enemies, including the Devil himself. Now, St. Nick gets ready to face his greatest challenge ever in JINGLE BELLE: SANTA CLAUS VS. FRANKENSTEIN!

Inspired by Mary Shelley’s original novel (sort of), the story of Frankenstein’s monster takes a new twist when he is found by Jingle in the Arctic wastes and “rehabilitated” to fit in with the elves at Santa’s Workshop. All goes well until an ultra-PC city declares Santa Claus taboo and awakens Frankie’s monstrous side in a misguided attempt to help his friend. It’s up to an ailing Santa and a reluctant Jingle Belle to stop their monstrous “apprentice” before he destroys the town and ruins the reputation of Christmas forever!

Cover A – Stephanie Gladden
Cover B – Greg Horn

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 one-shot


The issue is schedule to be in stores on Dec. 3rd.

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New Downloads

Just added to the download section 1 new wallpaper, 1 new banner and 2 new avatars Download Now.

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Forbidden Planet interviews Mark Millar

can't see this movie click here.

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The Quarter Bin reviews BROKEN TRINITY #3

Broken Trinity was supposed to be Top Cow’s big summer series. Well, it’s now November, and the third and final issue is (finally) about to ship. We could get mad at Top Cow for the delay, but instead you should hit the jump to get a sneak peek at the issue, and read our thoughts about how Top Cow’s biggest storyline of the year gets wrapped up.
Broken Trinity #3
Writer: Ron Marz
Artists: Stjepan Sejic, Phil Hester
Cover Artists: Stjepan Sejic, Dale Keown
It has been a completely crazy year for everyone in the Top Cow universe. Jackie Estacado has lost touch with his Darkness powers, and as a result has displayed a vulnerability that no one, himself included, would have expected. Also, because of this, the Angelus have gone on the attack, attempting to destroy Jackie during his time of weakness. Meanwhile, Sara Pezzini, longtime bearer of the Witchblade, has been dealing with new motherhood and sharing the Witchblade. As if that wasn’t enough, some new powers within the universe have been awakened, powers that are connected to the Witchblade, the Darkness, and the Angelus in mysterious ways. How are all of these different forces going to live peacefully amongst one another? READ MORE.

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Wanted Graphic Novel Lands on ICV2 Top Trades List

These charts of the ICv2 Top 10 Superhero and Genre graphic novels reflect sales in all channels in Q3 of 2008. These charts are based on interviews with retailers and distributors, information provided by Nielsen BookScan (in the form of monthly Top 20 lists (for example see “Bookscan’s Top 20 Graphic Novels for August 2008) of graphic novels sold in bookstores, and ICv2’s own analysis of information provided by Diamond Comic Distributors on graphic novel sales in comic stores. READ MORE.

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ComicMonsters.com reviews IMPALER Vol. 1 TP

Synopsis: This brilliant reimagining of the vampire myth is collected for the first time and includes the never- seen -before final three parts of the initial storyline. When one of the worst blizzards in modern history descends upon New York City, the blinding snow and wind are the least of the city's problems. For hidden in the weather is a growing army of ravenous vampires, and humanity's only hope lies with Vlad Tepes, the 'historical Dracula.' READ MORE.

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AMC TV Horror Blog covers IMPALER

Dracula isn't usually portrayed as a good guy. From Nosferatu to Van Helsing, he's a force of evil that must be stopped. But the comic Impaler is changing the vampire mythos by making him the hero. Here Vlad Dracula (the real-life historical inspiration for Bram Stoker's novel) is not a vampire; he's a vampire-hunter. The comic book's story goes something like this: In 1460, Vlad is facing a vampire invasion and he orders a priest to give him supernatural powers so he can fight them off. Now, Vampires are taking a bite out of the Big Apple and, after five centuries in purgatory, the "impaler" comes back to save New York City. Yea! READ MORE.

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Newsarama runs profile of Dinicartoons character Polly Green

Newsarama is hosting writer Paul Dini as he introduces the various characters who are center stage in his new "Dinicartoons" imprint at Top Cow. The imprint kicks off with the release of Jingle Belle: Santa Claus vs. Frankenstein later this year.

But now with Halloween still a warm memory in our minds, we present the first profile: Polly Green.

Name: Polly Green
First Appearance: Jingle Belle Jubilee (2001)

When under appreciated middle child Polly Green showed a serious talent for witchcraft, her normal but greedy parents realized they had a gold mine on their hands. Far from keeping Polly's magical skills a secret, her mom and dad dressed her in orange and black and quickly began to promote their daughter as the official witch of Halloween. Not an ideal situation for a nice girl who just wants to stay home and craft healing and self-esteem spells for her friends. READ MORE.

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Wanted" comes to DVD on December 2

James McAvoy (Atonement) and Academy Award ® winners Angelina Jolie (Mr. and Mrs. Smith) and Morgan Freeman (Dark Knight) star in the sexy, visually stunning, action thrill-ride Wanted, coming to DVD and Blu-ray Hi-Def on December 2, 2008 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Visionary filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, creator of Day Watch and Night Watch, two of the most successful films in the history of Russian cinema, brings his incomparable imagination and innovative cinematic style to bear on the explosive story of an ordinary man transformed by destiny into a powerful assassin. Based on Mark Millar’s explosive graphic novel series, Wanted blazes new cinematic trails with double-barreled surprises around every corner. Director Bekmambetov leads his extraordinary cast, which also includes Thomas Kretschmann (King Kong), Terence Stamp (Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace) and Common (American Gangster), through a twisted maze of intrigue packed with two-fisted action. READ MORE.

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Newsarama runs preview of THE DARKNESS #7

A new storyline begins, and Newsarama has your first look at it with our preview of Top Cow's The Darkness #7, on sale next week. The solicitation for the issue reads:

THE DARKNESS #7 / 71

(W) Phil Hester (A) Jorge Lucas (Cov) Jorge Lucas, Stjepan Sejic

Never has Jackie Estacado’s dark, evil history served him so well as when he crosses paths with La Bruja de Las Paredes. Fleeing from the Central American country he once ruled over, Jackie runs afoul of the witch, who has enslaved a Mexican town by eating the memories and nightmares of its citizens. Guest artist Jorge Lucas (Pilot Season: Ripclaw) steps in and shows how his gritty art style perfectly captures the spirit of The Darkness. Stjepan Sejic (Witchblade) contributes a stunning variant cover, while Phil Hester contributes a special cover for The Hero Initiative. (All proceeds from the sale of Phil Hester’s cover will go to The Hero Initiative.) READ MORE.

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2 Reviews of MADAME MIRAGE trade paperback

ThickOnline.com Review
What makes Paul Dini so good? Is it the rich feeling of old pulp fiction he brings to his stories? Maybe it’s the concise story telling that provides what so many new writers seem to miss - full arcs to their stories that deliver satisfaction throughout. He’s not rewriting the book with Madame Mirage. Instead, he’s delivering a story that seems as though it’s always been there. Like a song you hear for the first time that resonates so perfectly inside you, you can’t help but feel that you’ve been listening to it for years. Madame Mirage was the book I’ve been reading in my head since I was watching cartoons in my parents living room. READ MORE.


Fantasy Book Critic Review
ABOUT MADAME MIRAGE: Who is this beautiful woman who appears out of the mist? As deadly as she is beautiful, she is cutting a bloody path through the city's villains, who now wear suits and have “legitimate” businesses. But who is her ultimate prey? And how does this Mirage take form? These and many other questions will be asked along with the most pivotal question of all—Who is Madame Mirage?
READ MORE.

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Angelina Jolie On The ‘Wanted’ Story Change She Demanded

It’s no secret that there were a lot of differences between 2008’s live-action adaptation of Mark Millar and J.G. Jones’ ultraviolent graphic novel “Wanted” and the story that inspired the film, but according to Angelina Jolie, the reason for one of those changes rests entirely on her shoulders.

In a conversation with LA Times geek-culture blog Hero Complex, the award-winning actress (who played a beautiful assassin named “Fox” in the film) explained that her participation in “Wanted” hinged entirely upon a script revision that significantly changed her character’s status at the end of the film from that of the story’s print counterpart. In the interest of avoiding BIG OL’ SPOILERS for anyone who hasn’t seen the film yet (“Wanted” DVD and Blu-Ray are scheduled to hit shelves December 2), we’ve posted Jolie’s comments about the change after the jump. READ MORE.

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HEROES4HEROES TO RAISE MONEY FOR TROOPS OVERSEAS!

Comic Books, Original Art, More to be Auctioned at WizardWorld Texas

(Dallas, TX): Heroes4Heroes (H4H), a 501 c3 non-profit organization dedicated to sending comic books, DVDs, and other forms of entertainment media to America's armed forces overseas, will hold a major auction this Saturday, November 8, 2008, during the largest comic book convention in the Southwest, WizardWorld Texas.

"This is the third year in a row that we've held an auction like this," said Scott Hinze, a volunteer and co-founder of H4H, "and we're looking forward to his one being the biggest and the best one yet. Last year, we raised over $12,000 at our event held at the Diamond Club in the Ballpark at Arlington, and this year, we hope to exceed that goal. Looking over the quality of material that's already been donated, I think we've got a pretty good shot."

"Some of the top artists in comics have donated material for our auction," said Hinze, "including Mitch Breitweiser, artist on Captain America; James O'Barr, the creator of the Crow; Phil Hester, artist on the critically and commercially acclaimed series Green Arrow and The Irredeemable Ant Man; Brian Denham, a native Texan whose recent work on Iron Man received rave reviews; Bill Tucci, the creator of Shi; Lee Bermejo, whose Joker graphic novel is currently taking the comic world by storm; Ben Templesmith, renowned artist on 30 Days of Night, the basis for the recent hit movie; and popular X-Men artist Marko Djurdjevic. Best of all, many of these artists will be creating these pieces at the show, so bidders can watch the pieces they're interested in come to life before their very eyes. There's going to be plenty of great material for collectors to fight over, and we're looking forward to some heated bidding wars."

"We really only do one big event a year" says Hinze. "Everyone who works with this organization has a full-time job, a family and other demands on their time. The one thing we all have in common is the fact that we love comics and fan-culture. We know the power of escapism and many of us have close friends serving abroad that tell us how boring and stressful the work of a solider can be. Comics are typically quick, fun reads, perfect for the young solider protecting our interests and freedoms the globe over. I honestly don't know of any other comic book-related charity that's doing what we do."

Hinze added, "Since our inception, we've shipped over 3,000 care packets, 40,000 comics, 800 DVD's and 500 books to American Soldiers all over the world and we've received praise from personnel of all ranks in the US Military, including Gen. David Petraeus. His letter, along with more information about Heroes4Heroes, can be found at www.heroes4heroes.org."

HEROES 4HEROES CHARITY AUCTION

WHERE: The Sheraton Hotel next to the Arlington Convention Center - 1500 Convention Center Drive, Arlington, Tx 76011

WHEN: Saturday Night, November 8th @ 7:00 - 11:00pm CST

COST: Totally free... but bring your cash or credit cards to be a part of the art auction!

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Chris Morgan Writing Screenplay For Wanted 2

When “Wanted” screenwriter Chris Morgan first helped bring to life the ultra-violent story about a world where supervillains had kicked out the good guys, he had some pretty impressive source material in Mark Millar and J.G. Jones’ critically praised graphic novel. While there won’t be the same ready-made reference for “Wanted 2,” the writer told MTV that shouldn’t be cause for concern among fans. And he should know, since he’s the one writing it.

“Yes, I will be writing it,” confirmed Morgan. “I’m actually leaving this conversation with you to go to a meeting with the director, Timur [Bekmambetov], and we’re talking about the story.”

According to Morgan, Universal Pictures is in the final stages of negotiating a deal with Millar for a sequel to the June 2008 film, which was a box-office success despite diverging significantly from the story in the graphic novel. Millar hasn’t given any indication that he’ll be penning a print follow-up to “Wanted,” but as with other projects adapted from his work, the comic book writer is expected to take an active role in shaping the over-arching story. READ MORE.

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Gale Ann Hurd Talks ‘Magdalena,’ Religious Controversies and Possible ‘Witchblade’ Crossover

We here at MTV are always trying to keep our eyes peeled for the next big thing when it comes to movies — even if it’s based on cultish material that much of the world hasn’t been turned onto yet. Most recently, we’ve been all over “Twilight” for this very reason – and looking to the future, we’re keeping a close eye on projects like “Magdalena.”

Over at Splash Page, we ran a whole week of news about the 2010 film. And when I caught up with super-producer Gale Ann Hurd recently, I wanted to make sure we got the latest.

“We’re in the early script phase at the moment,” explained Hurd, mastermind behind the “Terminator” and “Hulk” franchises. “There should be some [casting announcements] within the next month and a half on this.”

So far, the only actors cast in “Magdalena” are Jenna Dewan (“Step Up”) and Luke Goss (“Hellboy II”), with more on the way. Based on the Top Cow comic, the flick will tell the story of Patience (Dewan), a tough warrior who can trace her lineage back to Mary Magdalene. This being a comic, the character’s path has sometimes crossed with “Witchblade,” but the producer could neither confirm nor deny that the movie would have a similar crossover.

“I can’t speak to that,” she insisted. “That would be something for a Top Cow or Platinum Studio person.” READ MORE.

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Impaler Creator William Harms' Favorite Vampires

With the release of the first “Impaler” trade paperback fast approaching (on-sale this week, published by Top Cow), the folks at CBR thought it'd be cool to do something that promotes the release of the trade and the new ongoing series, which kicks off in December.

But instead of doing the usual Q&A thing, CBR asked if I'd be interested in writing about my favorite vampires in novels, movies, and comics. As someone who loves vampires and has strong opinions about bloodsuckers in all their forms, this idea got me really excited.

What follows are not only my favorite vampires, they're my undead inspiration. They helped me really think about how I wanted the vampires in “Impaler” to work, what kind of rules I wanted them to follow. They showed me what had been done and what was possible.

I wouldn’t be here without them. READ MORE.

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Seth Green talks more on Freshmen movie

From his role as the as the unflappable werewolf Oz on Buffy the Vampire Slayer to his part in co-creating TV’s lo-fi nerd-satire Robot Chicken, Seth Green has almost effortlessly amassed an adoring fanbase. The actor hopes to expand on that niche appeal with his first directorial effort for the big screen, an upcoming adaptation of his popular comic book, The Freshmen. We spoke to the ever-amiable, indefatigable Green about tweaking the title for the big screen, seeking advice from George Lucas, and his upcoming cameos in Entourage and Heroes.

Green conceived the story for The Freshman with Hugh Sterbakov, who penned the title with an assist from illustrator Leonard Kirk; Green and Sterbakov are currently scripting the film. Set on a socially stratified college campus, the Top Cow series follows the misadventures of a group of dejected students who acquire peculiar abilities after a lab mishap irradiates them. READ MORE.

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Review of Witchblade TV Series on DVD

Contrary to what my fanboy husband likes to think, I did have an interest in some things in the sci-fi/comic/fantasy realm before I met him. I was big into Voltron as a kid. V was one of my all-time favorite alien series. And despite the campy film, I liked Buffy the Vampire Slayer series as well. In 2001 — not long before we met — I also got into a new show on TNT — Witchblade.

Though I started watching the series regularly, life intruded and I was not able to watch it on a regular basis. So, when the entire series was released on DVD, I was very excited to finally be able to catch up on all that I’d missed. Not only that, the disc extras helped put the story and characters into new perspective that I didn’t expect.

Witchblade follows New York City detective Sarah Pezzini (Yancy Butler) as she faces some bizarre and tragic personal and professional circumstances. Her father is recently murdered by the local mob kingpin (who is also out for her blood) and she has sworn revenge within the parameters of the law. As Pez goes after the mob boss and his henchmen, she becomes briefly fascinated with an armored glove in a museum. Moments later, she’s nearly gunned down by an assassin and the whole place is blown sky high. How did she survive? The glove, later revealed to be the Witchblade, chose her as its wielder and protected her from harm. READ MORE.

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Bernardin & Freeman talk Top Cow's Genius

What if the greatest military genius of our generation was born and raised on the battleground of South Central, Los Angeles? That’s the question that writer Marc Bernardin and Adam Freeman set out to answer in “Genius,” their entry in Top Cow’s second annual Pilot Season competition. Now that their fan-favorite entry has emerged as one of the top two vote-getters of Pilot Season 2008, Bernardin and Freeman are being given the opportunity to continue the story, and CBR News caught up with both writers to get the details.

The military genius in question is a young girl named Destiny Ajaye, who Bernardin likens to Hannibal, Alexander, Patton or Washington. “She’s a savant-level military genius,” Bernardin told CBR. “Now, she was born in South Central, L.A., into an environment that has been known to eat its young, or have its young taken by the authorities. She decides that enough is enough and secedes a two-square-block area from Los Angeles proper. And given her natural skill set, that involves lots of blood.” READ MORE.

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