FCBD TOP COW CREATORS MAKE PUBLIC APPEARANCES

TOP COW CREATORS MAKE PUBLIC APPEARANCES IN SUPPORT OF FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

Writers and artists to appear in comic book shops across the country

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 30, 2008 – Top Cow Productions Inc. is proud to announce that many of its creators will be participating in Free Comic Book Day (May 3, 2008) by making public appearances at select comic book stores across the country.
Free Comic Book Day is a single day when participating comic book shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their stores. This is the seventh year the event is being held.
“Free Comic Book Day is one of the few days you can count on seeing a lot of families out to the comic book store together,” observed Phil Hester, who writes The Darkness. “Kids mean new readers, if not for a darker book like The Darkness, but at least for comics in general!”
Hester is just one of the many Top Cow creators who will go out on Free Comic Book Day to meet fans. “I’m so proud that many of our writers and artists are helping to create buzz for Free Comic Book Day at their local shops,” said VP of Sales and Marketing Mel Caylo. “We love our fans as much as they love us, plus, this is a great way to earn ourselves some new readers!”
As part of Free Comic Book Day, Top Cow is releasing an eight-page prelude to its big summer event, Broken Trinity, written by Ron Marz (Witchblade, Samurai: Heaven and Earth) and drawn by Stjepan Sejic (Witchblade, First Born). The issue also contains four-page introductions to each of its flagship titles, Witchblade and The Darkness.
Here is a list of Top Cow creators who are scheduled to appear this Saturday, Free Comic Book Day:

BRAVE NEW WORLD COMICS
22722 Lyons Avenue #6
Newhall, CA 91321
(661) 259- 4745
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. PST
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
Sheldon Mitchell (artist, Freshmen: Summer Vacation Special, X-Men: Messiah CompleX )
Blond (colorist, Freshmen, Witchblade Takeru Manga)
Nei Ruffino (colorist, Witchblade/Devi, Grimm Fairy Tales, Return to Wonderland)

GOLDEN APPLE COMICS (VALLEY)
8967 Reseda Blvd. (S. of Nordhoff near CSUN)
Northridge, CA 91324
(818) 993-7804
2 p.m. – 4 p.m. PST
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
Sheldon Mitchell (artist, Freshmen: Summer Vacation Special, X-Men: Messiah CompleX )
Blond (colorist, Freshmen, Witchblade Takeru Manga)
Nei Ruffino (colorist, Witchblade/Devi, Grimm Fairy Tales, Return to Wonderland)

END ZONE HOBBY SHOP
133 S. State Street
Clearfield, Utah 84015
(801) 774-5050
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. MST
Tyler Kirkham (artist, Strykeforce, Ultimate Fantastic Four)

AMAZING COMICS & CARDS
5555 Stearns Street, Suite 103
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 493-4427
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. PST
Eric Basaldua (artist, Witchblade/Devi, Hunter-Killer)
Rick Basaldua (inker, Witchblade/Devi, Hunter-Killer)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Elk’s Run)

GOLDEN APPLE COMICS (HOLLYWOOD)
7018 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 658-6047
2 p.m. – 4 p.m. PST
Eric Basaldua (artist, Witchblade/Devi, Hunter-Killer)
Rick Basaldua (inker, Witchblade/Devi, Hunter-Killer)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Elk’s Run)

EARTHWORLD COMICS
537 Central Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 459-2400
12 – 4 p.m. EST
Ron Marz (writer, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)

YANCY STREET COMICS
3615 Universal Plaza
New Port Richey, FL 34652
(727) 817-0888
11 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST
Phil Hester (writer, The Darkness, Firebreather)

ATOMIC COMICS (MESA SUPERSTORE)
1120 South Country Club #105
Mesa, AZ 85210
(480) 649-0807
12 – 5 p.m. MT
Marc Silvestri (artist, Hunter-Killer, Cyberforce, The Darkness, Witchblade)

THE COMIC BUG
1807 ½ Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(310) 372-6704
12 – 3 p.m. PST
Ryan Winn (inker, The Darkness)

GEOFFREY’S COMICS
15900 Crenshaw Blvd., Suite B
Gardena, CA 90250
(310) 538-3198
12 – 2 p.m. PST
David Wohl (writer, Witchblade, Aphrodite IX, The Darkness)

METRO COMICS INC.
San Patricio Plaza
Corner of Roosevelt and San Patricio
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico 00968
(787) 781-4110
9 – 11 a.m. AST
Kenneth Rocafort (artist, Madame Mirage, Hunter-Killer)


For more information on Free Comic Book Day and to find out which shop near you is participating, visit www.freecomicbookday.com.

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Top Cow and Virgin Talk About Teaming Up for Their First Crossover Book

With the release of Witchblade/Devi, Wizard Universe sat down with Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik and Virgin Comics Chief Creative Officer Gotham Chopra to talk about this first crossover event between the two companies.



CLICK HERE TO READ THE JOINT INTERVIEW

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Witchblade trades 1-3 review

I recently just read these three volumes and they collect issues 80-100. It was a really great reading experience to sit down and powerhouse through twenty issues worth of stories from Witchblade. I'm a recent convert to Witchblade. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Witchblade Anime Vol 6 DVD

Badly wounded, Masane has been burned out by the power of the Witchblade as it takes its lethal toll. But as her life force ebbs, Doji’s I-Weapons are about to go after her thanks to Wado’s over-reaching plan. To protect her daughter, Masane must fight, not for herself, but to save the life she holds most dear – Rihoko’s. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Pilot Season: Lady Pendragon Preview Art

Check out some cool, unlettered color preview art of the upcoming Pilot Season: Lady Pendragon by writer Matt Hawkins and artist Eru of Imaginary Friends Studios!

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE PREVIEW.

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INTERVIEW RANDY QUEEN ON STARFALL

Announced at Top Cow’s New York Comic Con panel, Randy Queen’s Starfall will be the first major work from the creator since his Darkchylde in the ‘90s. Only teaser art was shown, with Top Cow President Matt Hawkins noting that the publisher will not be soliciting the new project until all the issues are done, in order to guarantee that readers are able to follow the story on a monthly basis.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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PREVIEW: PILOT SEASON TWILIGHT GUARDIAN

Pilot Season: Twilight Guardian #1
(W) Troy Hickman (A) Reza (Cov) Hendry Prasetyo

She’s the hero who could be you! Eisner-nominee Troy Hickman (Common Grounds) brings you more of his unique view of the superhero genre, with stunning artwork by Reza. Enter the world of the Twilight Guardian and the nine-block area she patrols each night, a world of everyday intrigue, brown and green gargantuas, marital aids, and yes, donut shops. Superheroics meets slice-of-life as you’ve never seen before! CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Top Cow Appearances April 26-27

Top Cow will be represented at two public events this weekend!

If you're in Calgary, Alberta, come check us out at the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo! Witchblade artist Stjepan Sejic and Publisher Filip Sablik will be on hand with some cool merchandise, freebies and signings!



If you're in the Los Angeles, CA area, come by the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at the UCLA campus and say hi to VP - Sales and Marketing Mel Caylo and Associate Editor Joshua Cozine. They'll have a variety of trade paperbacks, books and graphic novels for sale.



See you this weekend!

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Watch a Video Interview with Darkness Artist Michael Broussard

The Comic Collective caught up with The Darkness artist Michael Broussard at New York Comic-Con and asked him where The Darkness is now, what it's like to work with Phil Hester and other interesting questions.



CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW

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Wizard Snags Ron and Stjepan for Impromptu Interviews at New York Comic-Con

Wizard Universe caught up with the Witchblade team of Ron Marz and Stjepan Sejic on the floor of New York Comic-Con last weekend to get on-the-spot reactions to the show.



CLICK HERE TO READ THE MINI INTERVIEWS

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Comic Geek Speak Interviews a Bunch of Top Cow Creators

The podcasters at Comic Geek Speak were at New York Comic-Con this past weekend and they were able to speak to a slew of Top Cow creators at the show. There are joint interviews with The Darkness team of Phil Hester and Michael Broussard and the Witchblade team of Ron Marz and Stjepan Sejic. There's also a funny interview with Freshmen co-creator/writer Hugh Sterbakov and a revealing one with Top Cow President and Pilot Season: Lady Pendragon writer Matt Hawkins. Some good stuff! (Starts at about five minutes in.)

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

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TOP COW KICK OFF PILOT SEASON 2008

TOP COW ANNOUNCES ‘LADY PENDRAGON’ AND ‘TWILIGHT GUARDIAN’ WILL
KICK OFF A NEW YEAR OF PILOT SEASON BOOKS

PILOT SEASON 2008

Six comic books spanning different genres will vie to be one of two titles
added to the 2009 publishing schedule

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 23, 2008 – Top Cow Productions, Inc. announced today that the first two of six Pilot Season 2008 books will kick off in May with Lady Pendragon and Twilight Guardian.
Pilot Season is an annual initiative Top Cow began in 2007 that borrows its concept from the television industry: Six “pilots” are submitted for consideration to be “picked up for a season,” except instead of TV executives deciding their fates, it’s the fans who decide by voting online. Last year’s top two vote getters, Cyblade and Velocity, will debut with new series later this year. Over four million votes were cast last year through a partnership with MySpace Comics.
While 2007’s books were based on existing Top Cow characters that didn’t have their own titles at the time, this year’s batch will feature four completely original properties and two that had previous lives elsewhere. These latter two are Lady Pendragon and Twilight Guardian.
Created by current Top Cow President Matt Hawkins, Lady Pendragon first debuted in 1996 and had successful series runs published by Image from 1998-2000. The writer decided to bring her back because “Pilot Season is one of the cooler editorial things we’ve ever done at Top Cow, so I’m digging just being a part of it,” said Hawkins. But just because the president of the company is participating doesn’t mean there’s a fix involved, he assured. “I’d prefer to lose, actually,” Hawkins pointed out, “so don’t vote for me!”
Pilot Season: Lady Pendragon #1 is the story of a direct descendant of King Arthur and Lady Guinevere who revives magic in the modern-day world, but is conflicted when she discovers her doing so may have done more harm than good. Filled with nods to Arthurian legend and fantastic battle scenes with dragons, the issue is drawn by Singapore-based artist Eru of Imaginary Friends Studios and features a beautifully painted cover by Star Wars and Indiana Jones movie poster artist Drew Struzan.
Also launching in May is Pilot Season: Twilight Guardian #1, a property created by Eisner nominee Troy Hickman (Common Grounds). Reza, also of Imaginary Friends Studios, will handle interior art while Hendry Prasetyo provides the cover.
“Twilight Guardian is about an average woman with a particular kind of OCD which drives her to patrol a nine-block area in her neighborhood every night, and about the other ‘night people’ and situations she encounters because of it,” Hickman described of the book, which was first published as a mini-comic. “It’s a premise that allows me to further muddy that line between superheroics and slice-of-life that has been the hallmark of my work.”
Unlike Hawkins, Hickman is gunning to be one of the top two vote getters. “We often hear people saying they want to see new kinds of characters and stories in comics,” said Hickman. “If that’s true, I’d like to think they’d gravitate to Twilight Guardian, which isn’t really like anything else on the ’stands, as far as I know.
“Y’know, when I told my editor Rob Levin that I was scared about my competition in this year’s Pilot Season, he said, ‘You’ve got humanity going for you,’” Hickman continued. “It’s something I strive for in all my stories, that basic humanity that connects with the reader. It was at the core of my Common Grounds stuff, but it may be stronger in Twilight Guardian than in anything else I’ve done so far. I think folks will dig it.”
The remaining Pilot Season books will be released in June and July, with voting to open at the beginning of August. They include:

ALIBI (June) – Writer Joshua Hale Fialkov (a Pilot Season 2007 winner with Cyblade) and artist Jeremy Haun (Civil War: Iron Man/Captain America) tell the story of a hitman who always has the perfect alibi whenever he’s accused of a high-profile assassination, but now someone knows his secret.

GENIUS (June) – From Entertainment Weekly senior editor Marc Bernardin and “Gene Simmons Family Jewels” producer Adam Freeman (writing partners who’ve previously worked on The Highwaymen and Monster Attack Network) comes a story about an exceptionally clever 17-year-old who unites the gangs in her neighborhood to wage war against the Los Angeles Police Department. Fresh newcomer Afua Richardson (Half Dead) provides art.

THE CORE (July) – Eisner-nominated writer Jonathan Hickman (Pax Romana) and Madame Mirage artist Kenneth Rocafort create a unique sci-fi tale about the first human appointed to an interplanetary Special Forces unit, and the trials he must endure to earn the respect of his extraterrestrial teammates.

URBAN MYTHS (July) – Fan-favorite writer Jay Faerber (Dynamo 5) teams with up-and-coming artist Jorge Molina (Superman/Batman Annual) to craft a story about a world where the Greek gods still meddle in the lives of men, and the best private investigator out there happens to be the mask-wearing son of Medusa.

Troy Hickman acknowledged that Pilot Season 2008 is a tough field. “I’m terrified,” he said. “Have you seen this list of creators? These are some of the hottest folks in comics today…er, not that I find them attractive. My main strategy is to hope people confuse me with Jonathan Hickman so I can tap into his massive fan base—and if you’ve ever had someone tap into your massive fan base, you know how painful it can be.”
“Oh, I’m pretty resolute that I’ll lose,” said Hawkins. “This is some solid competition! I’ve actually tweaked my story to make sure it was completely self-contained so that when these other titans trounce me, I can at least have a nice story out there.”
Creators on each Pilot Season book are free to run whatever campaign they’d like to drum up votes for their title.
“It’s nice to have the Pilot Season voting coincide with the presidential election,” observed Hickman. “I plan to run a clean campaign, so I won’t be attacking my opponents. People might be interested, though in Matt Hawkins’ connection to certain foreign governments, or Jay Faerber’s plan to tax widows and orphans.”
Additional details on the other four series will be released in the coming weeks, as will details on when and how the Pilot Season 2008 polls will open.

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Entertainment Weekly Online discusses Wanted

EW recommends you read "Wanted" before you go see "Wanted". We agree it's a good idea:) Or read it afterwards, we're fine with that too! We disagree on one point - you won't be disappointed by the difference in the stories, because they both ROCK!
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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New Wanted Poster Image Revealed

If you missed getting the new Wanted poster at New York Comic Con, you can check it out here thanks to SuperheroHype.com.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Wizard Universe Interviews Randy Queen About Starfall

Randy Queen returns to full-on comic work with his newest series Starfall!

What's it about? We'll let Randy give a rundown in his own words:

"Space Pirates crash land on an uncharted Jungle Planet, and unknowingly unleash degenerative nanobot technology that turns the local dinosaur and cannibal populace into raging zombies!

"The story's protagonist is Sierra Starfall, a female Flash Gordon/Tarzan type character who's hotwired with Dragon DNA and over 100 years old—despite not looking a day over 25. Sierra is legendary and considered by many to be the galaxy's greatest warrior. She is commander of a fiercely loyal rogue's gallery of alien mercs, who have survived and vanquished many perils. This time they won't."
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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PREVIEW Darkness vs. Eva: Daughter of Dracula #2

Top Cow and Dynamite are at it again, this time pitting The Darkness against the ass-kicking daughter of Dracula (and slayer of all things evil and undead) - Eva, as the two meet for the first time ever!

This crossover of dark and demonic dimensions continues as Eva and Jackie Estacado are drawn together by mysterious forces and when they meet - darkness meets darkness and you can bet there's gonna be a fight!

Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion, and drawn by Edgar Salazar, this first issue also features three incredible covers by Paul (Red Sonja) Renaud, Brett (Anita Blake) Booth and Edgar Salazar.

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IN STORES THIS WEEK

Witchblade #117
(W) Ron Marz (A) Stjepan Sejic (Cov) Sejic, Luke Ross Romance blossoms this spring courtesy of WITCHBLADE's new long term creative team of Ron Marz (FIRST BORN, SAMURAI: HEAVEN & EARTH) and painter Stjepan Sejic (FIRST BORN, THE DARKNESS) when Dani meets a handsome stranger who sweeps her off her feet. But Sara's police instincts kick in and she suspects there is more to Dani's new paramour than meets the eye. Featuring a beautiful variant cover by Luke Ross (SAMURAI: HEAVEN & EARTH).

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 continuing series

BUY NOW

BUY NOW


DARKNESS VS. EVA: DAUGHTER OF DRACULA #2
Top Cow and Dynamite are at it again, this time pitting The Darkness against the ass-kicking daughter of Dracula (and slayer of all things evil and undead) - Eva, as the two meet for the first time ever!
This crossover of dark and demonic dimensions continues as Eva and Jackie Estacado are drawn together by mysterious forces and when they meet - darkness meets darkness and you can bet there's gonna be a fight!
Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion, and drawn by Edgar Salazar, this first issue also features three incredible Covers: Paul (Red Sonja) Renaud, Brett (Anita Blake) Booth
BUY NOW

BUY NOW

BUY NOW

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NYCC '08: THE TOP COW PANEL

At Saturday’s Top Cow panel at New York Comic Con, Publisher Philip Sablik opted to At Saturday’s Top Cow panel at New York Comic Con, Publisher Philip Sablik opted to start things off by showing the trailer for the June 27th-debuting Wanted, which was met with applause from the crowd that nearly filled the room.

With the crowd in a good mood, Sablik next introduced the panelists joining him on the stage: President and COO Matt Hawkins, Witchblade writer Ron Marz, Witchblade artist Stjepan Sejic, Freshmen co-creator and writer Hugh Sterbakov, VP Editorial Rob Levin, Darkness writer Phil Hester, Darkness artist Michael Broussard, Genius writer Marc Bernadin, Alibi writer Jonathan Hale Fialkov, and Freshmen co-creator Seth Green who joined the panel a few minutes late, joking that he had been sitting on the stage of an Avatar panel before he realized he was in the wrong place. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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NEW YORK COMIC CON: WANTED PANEL

NEW YORK -- Universal Pictures kicked off its comics-to-movies trio at New York Comic Con on Saturday with a presentation for Wanted.

Following are highlights:

* Director Timur Bekmanbetov kicked off the panel by introducing the action scene that was first shown at WonderCon.

* Bekmanbetov said he was contacted by Universal right after finishing his previous film, Night Watch.

"I like this comic book. I liked Wanted," he said. "I tried to be careful with tone and the character. We just changed the elments. The basis is the same." CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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TOP COW WELCOMES STJEPAN SEJIC TO NYCC

TOP COW WELCOMES CROATIAN ARTIST TO HIS FIRST
NORTH AMERICAN CONVENTION

STJEPAN SEJIC

Publisher proud to host ‘Witchblade’ artist at the 2008 New York Comic-Con

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 17, 2008 – Top Cow Productions Inc. is proud to announce that Croatia-based Witchblade artist Stjepan Sejic will make his North American convention debut at New York Comic-Con 2008!
Eager to meet his U.S.-based fans, the artist will appear at the Top Cow booth (#1506) for several autograph signings, sketchings, and will also perform on the Variant Stage on the show floor to demonstrate how he produces his unique and stunning art.
“Witchblade, Broken Trinity, and more…there are exciting times ahead for the Cow,” said Sejic as he prepared for his first transcontinental flight. “I hope you join us, and if you want to get on my good side, please offer my wife and I coffee!” he laughed.
Sejic will appear at the Top Cow booth (#1506) at New York Comic-Con on Friday, April 18 from 6 – 7:15 p.m., Saturday, April 19 from 4:30 – 6 p.m., and Sunday, April 20 from 2:30 – 4 p.m. He will demonstrate his art technique on the Variant Stage on Saturday from 1 – 2 p.m.

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PREVIEW WITCHBLADE/DEVI #1

Witchblade/Devi #1

(W) Ron Marz (A) Eric Basaldua (Cov) Greg Land, Basaldua

When a murder investigation takes her to India, NYPD Detective Sara Pezzini, the bearer of the mystical Witchblade, crosses paths with Devi, goddess incarnate and protector of Sitapur in the first-ever crossover with Virgin Comics! If they can survive their initial meeting, the two women will confront a powerful common enemy, and discover that this is not the first time an incarnation of Devi and a bearer of the Witchblade have met.

From the powerhouse team of Ron Marz (WITCHBLADE, FIRST BORN) and Eric Basaldua (THE DARKNESS, HUNTER-KILLER) and featuring two covers including half of a diptych cover by Greg Land (ULTIMATE POWER).

Look for the other half of the tale in Devi/Witchblade #1 from Virgin Comics in May!

Cover A – Greg Land
Cover B – Eric Basaldua

Full Color 32 pages $3.99 limited series

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WIZARD SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL BROUSSARD

Wizard Universe’s Top Cow Spotlight this week focuses on The Darkness artist Michael Broussard. Read up on how Michael got his start at Top Cow, what he likes so much about The Darkness, and which Oscar-winning actor he sounds like when he talks. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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IN STORES THIS WEEK

The Darkness #3

Answers are revealed as writer Phil Hester (DEEP SLEEPER, GREEN ARROW) and Michael Broussard (UNHOLY UNION) are joined by second series artist Dale Keown (THE DARKNESS/PITT) to show us how Jackie and Dr. Kirchner first met. Oh, and Jackie takes on the US Government in the most explosive battle in The Darkness’ history! Strap in - it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!

Cover A - Dale Keown

Cover B - Stjepan Sejic

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 ongoing series


THE DARKNESS #3- DALE KEOWN COVER BUY NOW


THE DARKNESS #3- STJEPAN SEJIC COVER BUY NOW

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ComicVine covers Witchblade #116 2nd Printing with Kind Words

"I really think it's weird that there's not more talk here about Witchblade. I know there's people here that read it. And since this issue (derservingly) sold out, it's obvious other people are buying it. Witchblade just has really been a great book lately. I hadn't started reading it again until Ron Marz started writing. I encourage others to pick it up if they're not reading it."
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Great reviews for The Darkness #3!

Great reviews for The Darkness #3 are pouring in, but don’t take our word for it! Check out these reviews from Comic News International, Comic Vine), Jazma Online and Joo-see.com!

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Top Cow Announces New York Comic-Con Schedule

Top Cow Productions Inc. announced its schedule today for this weekend’s New York Comic-Con, a comics and pop culture extravaganza to be held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City from April 18 - 20.

Top Cow will set up shop at Booth #1506 and heads into the convention with a diverse list of guests, headlined by Wanted movie director Timur Bekmambetov (Night Watch) and Wanted mini-series artist JG Jones. (Bekmambetov will present footage of the movie at a Universal Pictures panel at the convention on Saturday from 2 – 3 p.m. “Wanted” will be released in theaters nationwide on June 27, 2008.)

Actor and producer Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Family Guy) will also be on hand to sign copies of Freshmen, the series he co-created with Hugh Sterbakov (Robot Chicken), plus the Witchblade creative team of Ron Marz (Green Lantern, Samurai: Heaven and Earth) and Stjepan Sejic (First Born) and The Darkness creative team of Phil Hester (Superman: Confidential, Green Arrow) and Michael Broussard (Unholy Union) will be available for autographs and sketches as well. This event marks the first U.S. convention for Croatia-based Sejic. Additional guests include Mike Choi (Witchblade, Uncanny X-Men), Tyler Kirkham (Strykeforce, Ultimate Fantastic Four), David Wohl (Witchblade, The Darkness), Eric Basaldua (Witchblade/Devi, Hunter-Killer), Joshua Hale Fialkov (Pilot Season: Cyblade, Pilot Season: Alibi), and Lee Moder (First Born: Aftermath, Painkiller Jane).

Top Cow will also present a panel on Saturday from 3 – 4 p.m., where attendees can hear some exciting announcements about upcoming publishing plans, including new projects from top creators. Marz and Stjepan Sejic will talk more about Top Cow’s universe-altering summer crossover event, Broken Trinity, as well as what’s coming up in Witchblade. Hester and Broussard tease what’s to come in The Darkness, while Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov will discuss the 48-page Freshmen one-shot coming in June. In addition, Matt Hawkins, Joshua Hale Fialkov, and Entertainment Weekly editor Marc Bernardin will be on hand to talk about their respective books in Pilot Season 2008, the follow-up to last year’s extremely successful event in which fans took control and voted on which two characters would get “picked up” for their own series.

At the Top Cow Booth (#1506), there will be giveaways and heavily discounted Top Cow products; special lithographs, posters, t-shirts and trade paperbacks for sale. Fans can also pick up New York Comic-Con exclusives like the Witchblade/Devi #1 Stjepan Sejic Variant Cover, The Darkness #3 Michael Broussard Variant Cover, and the Witchblade #116 NYCC Sketch Variant Cover. But best of all, fans will get the opportunity to meet and talk with their favorite Top Cow creators. The appearance schedule at the Top Cow Booth (#1506) appears below (please check the booth daily for updates).

Fans should note that because of anticipated crowding issues, artists will only be able to do a limited amount of free sketches per sitting. Fans can sign up in advance for one free sketch by the artist of their choice at the Top Cow booth at the start of each day, first come, first served. In addition, tickets will be required for the Freshmen and Wanted signings on Saturday. These also can be picked up at the Top Cow booth at the start of each day, first come, first served.
As a bonus, there will be raffle drawings held throughout the weekend. Prizes include original sketches drawn by Top Cow artists on Witchblade #116 NYCC Sketch Variant Covers and tickets to the Freshmen and Wanted signings.


NEW YORK COMIC-CON TOP COW SIGNING AND PANEL SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, April 18

3 – 4:15 p.m. TOP COW STUDIO / PILOT SEASON (signing, Top Cow booth)
Mike Choi (artist, Witchblade)
Tyler Kirkham (artist, The Darkness: Levels, The Darkness/Superman, Strykeforce)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Pilot Season: Alibi)
Matt Hawkins (writer, Pilot Season: Lady Pendragon)

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. THE DARKNESS (signing, Top Cow booth)
Phil Hester (writer, The Darkness)
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
David Wohl (writer, Witchblade, The Darkness, Aphrodite IX)
Rob Levin (writer, Witchblade: Bearers of the Blade, The Darkness: Butcher)

6 – 7:15 p.m. WITCHBLADE (signing, Top Cow booth)
Ron Marz (writer, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity, Witchblade Devi)
Stjepan Sejic (artist, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)
Eric Basaldua (artist, Hunter-Killer, Witchblade/Devi)
Lee Moder (artist, First Born: Aftermath)

SATURDAY, April 19

10 – 11:15 a.m. TOP COW STUDIO / PILOT SEASON (signing, Top Cow booth)
Tyler Kirkham (artist, The Darkness: Levels, The Darkness/Superman, Strykeforce)
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Pilot Season: Alibi)

11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. FRESHMEN (signing, Top Cow booth)
Seth Green (co-creator, Freshmen)
Hugh Sterbakov (co-creator/writer, Freshmen)

1 – 2 p.m. WITCHBLADE (art demonstration, Variant Stage)
Stjepan Sejic (artist, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)

1 – 2:30 p.m. THE DARKNESS (signing, Top Cow booth)
Phil Hester (writer, The Darkness)
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
David Wohl (writer, Witchblade, The Darkness, Aphrodite IX)
Rob Levin (writer, Witchblade: Bearers of the Blade, The Darkness: Butcher)

2 – 3 p.m. WANTED (panel, IGN.com theater)
Timur Bekmambetov (director, “Wanted”)

3 – 4 p.m. TOP COW EDITORIAL PRESENTATION (panel, Room 1E15)
Matt Hawkins (president)
Filip Sablik (publisher)
Rob Levin (VP Editorial)
Seth Green (co-creator, Freshmen)
Hugh Sterbakov (co-creator/writer, Freshmen)
Ron Marz (writer, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity, Witchblade Devi)
Stjepan Sejic (artist, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)
Phil Hester (writer, The Darkness)
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
Marc Bernardin (co-writer, Pilot Season: Genius)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Pilot Season: Alibi)

3:15 – 4:15 p.m. WANTED (signing, Top Cow booth)
JG Jones (artist, Wanted)
Timur Bekmambetov (director, “Wanted”)

4:30 – 6 p.m. WITCHBLADE (signing, Top Cow booth)
Ron Marz (writer, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity, Witchblade Devi)
Stjepan Sejic (artist, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)
Eric Basaldua (artist, Hunter-Killer, Witchblade/Devi)
Lee Moder (artist, First Born: Aftermath)

SUNDAY, April 20

11 – 12:30 p.m. THE DARKNESS / PILOT SEASON (signing, Top Cow booth)
Phil Hester (writer, The Darkness)
Michael Broussard (artist, The Darkness)
Rob Levin (writer, Witchblade: Bearers of the Blade, The Darkness: Butcher)
Joshua Hale Fialkov (writer, Pilot Season: Cyblade, Pilot Season: Alibi)

12:45 – 2:15 p.m. TOP COW STUDIO (signing, Top Cow booth)
Eric Basaldua (artist, Hunter-Killer, Witchblade/Devi)
Mike Choi (artist, Witchblade)
Tyler Kirkham (artist, The Darkness: Levels, The Darkness/Superman, Strykeforce)

2:30 – 4 p.m. WITCHBLADE / FRESHMEN (signing, Top Cow booth)
Ron Marz (writer, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity, Witchblade Devi)
Stjepan Sejic (artist, Witchblade, First Born, Broken Trinity)
Hugh Sterbakov (co-creator/writer, Freshmen)

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Geeks of Doom review The Darkness #2 and #3

"After reading the latest issues of The Darkness, I have a feeling that this current series has the potential to be just as, if not better than, the Jenkins run."
A great two in one review for Hester and Broussard's latest efforts!
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Wanted reviewed on Horror Yearbook

"Wanted has delivered the goods, and with an ever-lovin middle finger I might add."
CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW.

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Witchblade Trailer LIVE on CBR!

The brand new trailer for the ongoing Witchblade series, which debuted at WWLA is now live EXCLUSIVELY on Comic Book Resources. What are ya waitin' for? Go check it out!
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Witchblade Anime Volume 6 Reviewed

DVD Talk gives Witchblade Anime Volume Six a 3.5 stars out of 5 in this review. The volume features a Marc Silvestri original cover.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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PREVIEW - The Darkness #3

PREVIEW - The Darkness #3
Answers are revealed as writer Phil Hester (DEEP SLEEPER, GREEN ARROW) and Michael Broussard (UNHOLY UNION) are joined by second series artist Dale Keown (THE DARKNESS/PITT) to show us how Jackie and Dr. Kirchner first met. Oh, and Jackie takes on the US Government in the most explosive battle in The Darkness’ history! Strap in - it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!

Cover A - Dale Keown

Cover B - Stjepan Sejic

Cover C - Michael Broussard New York Comic Con Exclusive

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 ongoing series

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Common Talks "Wanted" To Crave Online

Actor and rapper Common, who plays Gunsmith in "Wanted", sits down to talk about the film and his other projects with Crave Online.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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TOP COW ANNOUNCES SECOND PRINTING WITCHBLADE #116

TOP COW ANNOUNCES SECOND PRINTING FOR INAUGURAL ‘WITCHBLADE’ ISSUE BY NEW CREATIVE TEAM OF RON MARZ AND STJEPAN SEJIC

WITCHBLADE #116

New printing features rare, pencil cover by painter Sejic

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 9, 2008 – Top Cow Productions, Inc. announced today that following the success and popularity of Witchblade #116, the issue is going back to press for a second printing. The book not only marked the beginning of writer Ron Marz (Green Lantern, Samurai: Heaven and Earth) and artist Stjepan Sejic’s (First Born, The Darkness) run on the title until at least issue #150, it also proved to be a great jumping-on point for new readers.
“It’s great that there’s been enough demand to go back for a second printing,” remarked Marz. “I think there’s still a segment of the audience that has a preconceived notion of what Witchblade is, so we want to get the book into the hands of as many of those people as possible and let them see what the book really is. Stjepan and I are happy with what we did in #116, but we’re just getting warmed up.”
“We knew that the re-pairing of the First Born team of Marz and Sejic was going to make people stand up and take notice, but we were incredibly elated to see how quickly retailers and fans supported this new era of Witchblade,” added Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik. “Even with a healthy overprint, issue #116 was an almost instant sell-out and we’re rushing back to do a second printing with a rare penciled image from Stjepan to fill demand. Tell your friends!”
The issue will be available in comic shops on April 30, 2008. (Please note: Witchblade #117 will be in shops on April 23, 2008.)

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Comic Geek Speak Spotlights Top Cow

The nice guys over at Comic Geek Speak followed up their "Book of the Month" episode spotlighting Witchblade Volume 1 TPB with Ron Marz, with a Top Cow Publisher Spotlight episode. With an interview with me, Publisher Filip Sablik. The episode is #412 and is currently up on the front page of the website, but will likely be archived in the near future. Check it out!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE EPISODE.

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Comic Book Boot Camp to Benefit Hero Initiative

The Hero Initiative and Comics Experience proudly present Comic Book Boot Camp, an all day event held Thursday, April 17th - the day before New York Comic Con - that sends you through a crash course on how comics are made! Along the way, you’ll get a wealth of insight and information about comics and the creative process as well as meet comics luminaries such as Top Cow President Matt Hawkins, famed Batman editor and writer Denny O’Neil, top writer Chris Gage, artist’s artist Phil Jimenez and comics legend Chris Claremont!
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Wizard Interviews Newest Top Cow Artist, Sheldon Mitchell

Wizard Universe gets up close and personal with Top Cow's latest find, Sheldon Mitchell. Sheldon is drawing the upcoming Freshmen: Summer Vacation Special so this is his first chance to really be in the spotlight! Find out about how he was discovered, who his influences are, and more!

CLICK HERE TO READ THE WIZARD INTERVIEW.

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Top Cow July Shipping Solicitations Announced!

Wondering what The Cow has coming up for the action packed summer month of July? Head over to Wizard Universe and check out the July shipping solicitations. Get the scoop on Broken Trinity #1, more Pilot Season titles, and what's the green haired chick doing in Witchblade?
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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More News on 2008 ComicsPRO meeting

Publisher's Weekly reports on the 2008 ComicsPRO Annual Membership Meeting.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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WITCHBLADE #117 PREVIEW

WITCHBLADE #117 PREVIEW
(W) Ron Marz (A) Stjepan Sejic (Cov) Sejic, Luke Ross Romance blossoms this spring courtesy of WITCHBLADE's new long term creative team of Ron Marz (FIRST BORN, SAMURAI: HEAVEN & EARTH) and painter Stjepan Sejic (FIRST BORN, THE DARKNESS) when Dani meets a handsome stranger who sweeps her off her feet. But Sara's police instincts kick in and she suspects there is more to Dani's new paramour than meets the eye. Featuring a beautiful variant cover by Luke Ross (SAMURAI: HEAVEN & EARTH).

Full Color 32 pages $2.99 continuing series

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PRESS RELEASE: 'Freshmen: Summer Vacation Special' Will Include Extras and Added Features

Comic book series co-created by Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov set for a 48-page one-shot issue featuring an all-new story, pin-ups, character designs and more

LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 7, 2008 – Top Cow Productions, Inc. announced today that the Freshmen: Summer Vacation Special, scheduled to ship in June, will feature all-new bonus material in addition to a brand-new story written by Hugh Sterbakov. Freshmen is a Top Cow comic book series co-created by Sterbakov and actor, producer and director, Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Family Guy).

“We’re going to have a bevy of extras, including a new, back-up text story written by yours chubbily, in addition to some pin-ups and other goodies,” said Sterbakov. “Also, as a special bonus just for our readers and hidden deep within these pages will be the true, honest, secret of the universe. Believe it. Or not.”

In addition to the secret of the universe, the 48-page one-shot issue will contain bonus pin-ups from interior artist Sheldon Mitchell (X-Men: Messiah CompleX), including one that pays homage to characters from the “Star Wars” franchise, which is a favorite of Sterbakov and Green’s. Other extras include a bonus story by Sterbakov, character style sheets, a photo parade of the creators and pin-ups by Rick Basaldua (The Darkness: Levels) and Filip Sablik (Army of Darkness).

The main story picks up chronologically after the end of the second series, Fundamentals of Fear. “We wanted to do a stand-alone adventure story to show what our kids are up to post second series without getting into the bigger stories of a third series,” said Green. In this issue, Green Thumb (aka Charles Levy), who can communicate with plants, needs the team’s help in dealing with his amorous houseplant. “This is an action-driven story in which Charles’ lovelorn plant returns in a whole new form to wreak devastating havoc on the school, and it’s told through the dazed haze of the Intoxicator,” said Sterbakov, referring to the Freshman who can produce toxic burps when he’s under the influence.

Rejoining Green and Sterbakov will be cover artist Rodolfo Migliari (Rogue), and a new member of the creative team is latest Top Cow find, Sheldon Mitchell. “Sheldon is great, he’s really enthusiastic,” lauded Green. “He’s very familiar with our kids and has a really dynamic style that works well with our story.”

Fans can meet Seth Green, Hugh Sterbakov and Sheldon Mitchell at the Top Cow Booth during San Diego Comic-Con, which takes place at the San Diego Convention Center July 24-27.

About Top Cow Productions Inc.

Top Cow Productions, Inc., a Los Angeles-based entertainment company, was founded in December of 1992 by artist Marc Silvestri, who also co-founded Image Comics earlier that same year. Top Cow currently publishes its line of comic books in 21 languages in over 55 different countries. The company has launched 20 franchises (18 original and two licensed) in the industry’s Top 10, seven at #1, a feat accomplished by no other publisher in the last two decades. Its flagship franchise, Witchblade, was TNT’s #1 original film of 2000 and the subsequent TV series is set for release on DVD on July 29, 2008. Witchblade is also the first American property to be fully adapted in Japan as an original anime and manga by Studio GONZO in 2006. Top Cow’s other flagship property, The Darkness, was developed into a major next-generation video game release by Starbreeze and 2K Games and achieved platinum sales status. Wanted, an Eisner-nominated miniseries published by Top Cow from 2003-2005, is currently in production as a major motion picture from Universal Pictures starring Angelina Jolie, James McAvoy, and Morgan Freeman and slated for wide release on June 27, 2008. Virtually all of Top Cow’s other properties are in development as feature films, live-action television, animation or video games. Top Cow has also successfully licensed and merchandised its franchises into toys, statues, clothing, lithographs, puppets, posters, magnets, shot glasses, lighters, lunch pails, wall scrolls, mouse pads, die-cast cars, calendars, Christmas ornaments, Halloween masks, trading cards, standees, video games, and roleplaying games.

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Read Ron Marz's Commentary on Witchblade #116

Comic Book Resources' Augie De Blieck Jr. sat down with Ron Marz to provide some insidery commentary on the recently released Witchblade #116. Read some cool behind-the-scenes info on the making of the book and get a glimpse of where Ron and artist Stjepan Sejic are going!

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Wizard Covers the Freshmen Summer Vacation Special

Wizard Magazine shines a spotlight on the upcoming Freshmen Summer Vacation Special by Seth Green, Hugh Sterbakov, and Sheldon Mitchell.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Eric Basaldua & Joshua Ortega Guests at This Year's Pittsburgh Comicon

For the members of the Herd in Pennsylvania, be sure to head over to the Pittsburgh Comicon in three weekend and meet Eric Basaldua (Witchblade/Devi) and Joshua Ortega (The Necromancer) who will be there representing the Cow! They might even have some cool freebies for fans that stop by and say hello.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.

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Sunny Jhanna Blog Praises Witchblade #116

"So go ahead and start reading Witchblade right now. I guarantee you won’t regret it!"
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Top Cow Praises ComicsPRO Annual Meeting

I had the pleasure of attending the 2008 ComicsPRO Annual Meeting in Las Vegas a few weekends ago and described it as, "Top Cow was proud to be both a sponsor and an active participant in the 2008 ComicsPRO Annual Membership Meeting. We found the gathering to be one of the most fruitful and productive opportunities we've had in a long time to interact with our direct market retail partners."
ComicsPRO is a retailer organization dedicated to the health and progress of direct market comic book retailers. I'd highly recommend any direct market retailer to join. Find out what others had to say as well.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov Talk 'Freshmen' Special

Freshmen co-creators Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov talk more on the upcoming special summer one-shot with Comic Book Resources. Plus, check out some exclusive pin-up sketches from new artist Sheldon Mitchell. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Comic Geek Speak Book of the Month: Witchblade episode available

Our pals over at Comic Geek Speak featured Witchblade Volume 1 by Ron Marz and Mike Choi as their book of the month for March and the episode featuring their review of it is now available on their website and through iTunes. As an added bonus they interviewed writer Ron Marz before the show!

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE EPISODE ONLINE.

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Wizard gives some props to the Butcher

The Darkness: Butcher one-shot slices its way into store this week, and to help pay tribute to the mob, we’re giving three reasons why this little story focusing on Jackie Estacado’s cleaner is sure to clean up in sales.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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New York Comicon Announces Movie Related Programming... Including Wanted!

New York Comicon has announced their film related programming for the exciting 2008 show and it includes a blockbuster panel from Universal for "Wanted"! Fans attending NYCC have a chance to find out more about the movie from writer Mark Millar and director Timur Bekmambetov.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Warner Confirms "Complete Witchblade" on DVD

Warner Home Video has officially confirmed they will be releasing the "Complete Witchblade" on DVD on July 29th, 2008. The boxed set will come loaded with bonus features and all sorts of other goodies. Check it out!
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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PREVIEW: THE DARKNESS BUTCHER #1

Top Cow has released a 5-page preview of their new "The Darkness: Butcher" One-Shot, from the creative team of Rob Levin and Michael Broussard.

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Witchblade Gets More Love From the Blogworld

Blogger ChiiruChan reviews the Witchblade Anime series and gives a handy rundown of where you can buy or try out the series.
"I recommend this anime. It's really good."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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Comic Book Resources - MySpacing

Are you a friend of Top Cow on MySpace? If not, why not?
According to CBR's "MySpacing" column this week, Top Cow is the #6 publisher on MySpace. Help make us #1 by friending us and get exclusive blogs and information.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

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