Showing posts with label Tyler Kirkham. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tyler Kirkham. Show all posts

Saturday, December 25, 2021

Season's Greetings

 


As you prepare for the day ahead



And lay out a festive table


Art by Tyler Kirkham & Arif Prianto


Thank You 

for reading my blog this year. 

 


I hope you've found my posts enlightening

and fun.

 


 

I wish you the happiest of holidays, and a healthy and prosperous 2022!

Dragon Dave

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

X-O Manowar #9 Coloring

 

X-O Manowar #9 Pre-Order Cover by Tyler Kirkham & Arif Prianto


In X-O Manowar #9, we find a New York City swathed in green. Normally, we think of things like nanites and the Singularity as machines, and associate them with evils like industrial pollution. Yet Troy Whitaker offers humanity a vision of technology that would transform our world into a garden planet, lush and verdant.

The only cost? The individual freedoms that you hold dear.



We've seen Tina Morris grow from a closed-down insular person in X-O Manowar #1, to a woman who has opened up her home--and her life--to new people and influences. Her striking red hair seems emblematic of the strength she has found during this series, as she takes on the newly transformed robots constraining her son.



Troy Whitaker's actions in this series suggest that he believes only the end result matters. The way he has clothed himself in white armor suggests that, no matter how many he deceived along the way, he views himself as a noble and blameless knight. 

He certainly believes that achieving his vision qualifies him as the savior of mankind.



Yet the diversity that he would wish to extinguish, for the sake of conformity to his grand vision, shows all of humanity's creativity and vibrancy. All these billboards, and signs or monitors, reveal all the colors of mankind. Yes, green is good, but we wouldn't want to smother out all those other colors either.


In X-O Manowar #9, colorist Ruth Redmond reminds us that, while humans are adept at capable of creating our own evils, diversity and vibrancy make our world a very rich place indeed.

Dragon Dave

Sunday, December 12, 2021

X-O Manowar #9 Covers

 

X-O Manowar #9 Cover A by Rahzzah


Rahzzah has contributed some hauntingly beautiful Cover A's for this second story arc, and each looks ripped directly from that issue's pages. Here we see Troy Whitaker in control of the world, drunk with the power of the nanite storm that he wields, while Aric lays defeated before him. Can there be any hope for Aric and Shanhara? 

I'm especially drawn to the nanite swarm, or the Hive Mind, or the Singularity (whatever you want to call it) in this cover. The pixels remind me of how Whitaker used the singularity to entrap and control Shanhara. But notice the shape they form above and behind Whitaker. It hints at a theme, and a key plot point you'll discover in X-O Manowar #9.


X-O Manowar #9 Cover B by Michael Cho

Michael Cho's cover is beautiful in its simplicity. He certainly has a gift for depth and proportion. The colors also form stark contrasts. Aric's hand looks as if it is reaching out beyond the cover. "Careful, Aric! I don't want your laser sword to burn me!"

And what about those shards of Shanhara behind and above Aric's thigh? Does it suggest that the armor is breaking down? Or is Shanhara reforming?

This is an exceptionally strong portrait. Valiant already used it for their X-O Manowar #5 Cover B. If you loved it then, but couldn't locate a copy, you've got another chance to pick up this beauty.


X-O Manowar #9 Pre-Order Cover by Tyler Kirkham & Arif Prianto

Valiant used this beautiful image by Tyler Kirkham and Arif Prianto as an advertisement in an earlier issue. When I saw it, I thought, "It's so good. I wonder why Valiant didn't use it as a cover?" Well, now they have! 

I love how it shows Aric in his gleaming new Whitaker-upgraded suit, with a closeup profile of his face seemingly formed by the rising smoke--or by clouds--in the background. The glowing moon in the sky also brightens this scene. But nothing shows more brilliance that Aric's sword, which sends flames searing through the titles.

With New York City seemingly in flames, I can't help thinking back to the story of Aric fighting the warlord Yakiov in X-O Manowar #4. Well, we know how that battle went! But can Aric and Shanhara defeat Troy Whitaker and the Singularity in X-O Manowar #9? 

You can learn the answers to all your questions, and see how this groundbreaking series ends, when you pick up your favorite cover--or all three--at your local comic shop this coming Wednesday.

Dragon Dave

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

The Year of Valiant Begins in 2022

Here's an exciting press release full of news and quotes from the good folks at Valiant Comics. Enjoy!

The Valiant Universe is about to expand.


THE YEAR OF VALIANT will be a year-long celebration of Valiant throughout 2022, consisting of new launches with new creators, the return of fan-favorite characters, the formation of new teams, and the Valiant characters exploring beyond traditional publishing methods. To celebrate the announcement, Valiant Entertainment is incredibly proud to showcase its universe with exciting new artwork from acclaimed creators Tyler Kirkham and Arif Prianto.

 

Artwork by Tyler Kirkham & Arif Prianto

 

"So much is happening in Valiant's 2022 to bring our Universe forward with the return of characters that fans continue to anticipate and love," said Valiant Entertainment Publisher Fred Pierce. "There will be sci-fi, horror, comedy, and so much action that it will be hard to sit down as they're being read. In addition to publishing, be on the lookout for games based on our characters, like Shadowman Remastered, original graphic novels, prose novels, and perhaps items of a more cinematic nature from our great parent company DMG Entertainment. The Valiant family is happy for everyone to join the excitement."

THE YEAR OF VALIANT will kick off with the return of the critically-acclaimed series SHADOWMAN in January. The first chapter of 'Deadside War', an epic horror storyline that will see the return of PUNK MAMBO and other familiar faces from the Valiant Universe, will begin in SHADOWMAN #5 on January 19th from the master of horror Cullen Bunn, rising star artist Pedro Andreo, and Eisner-nominated creators Jordie Bellaire and Clayton Cowles.

 

"In the new 'Deadside War' story in SHADOWMAN, we’re seeing Blights—tears in the fabric of reality between our world and the Deadside — opening with increased frequency and increased supernatural mayhem," teased Cullen. "Shadowman is tasked with protecting our world, but he’s no longer sure that throwing punches and swinging scythes is the way to combat the Deadside’s ultimate plans. Plans? How can a place have plans? The answer to that question will lead Shadowman to gather allies such as Punk Mambo to his side. It will also awaken some old adversaries who might be too much even for the combined might of our heroes. All this brings us to the titular war, which could rip the entirety of the Valiant Universe apart." 



More announcements about new launches from THE YEAR OF VALIANT will arrive in the coming months. In the meantime, here is what the Valiant staff have to say about the year-long celebration of the Valiant Universe.

“2022 marks the start of Valiant Entertainment's second decade since publishing resumed in 2012, and one of the reasons I joined the company this past summer is because I think we're only just getting started. We're building on the incredible legacy of both the original '90s comics and the 2012 reboot, stellar characters who encompass so many different types of stories, and the tightest and most accessible shared universe in comics, and we're bringing in new creators, characters, concepts, and titles -- and of course the return of fan-favorites who have been out of the spotlight lately. This year is really the start of everything we want to do with the universe in comics and beyond, and we’ve only scratched the surface of what's possible. I'm thrilled to be part of such an incredible team and organization, and thankful for the opportunity to help tell amazing stories with some of the best talent in comics."

-Rob Levin, Executive Editor

"The year starts off with the return of Punk Mambo in SHADOWMAN, Faith in THE HARBINGER, and [CLASSIFIED] to the pages of the Valiant Universe and that's just the start! Full-on hero time comes next, coupled with mind-blowing sci-fi, bone-chilling horror, and laugh-out-loud humor. Valiant has something to offer for everyone and 2022 is the year where there is no better place and time to rediscover, or just plain discover what the Valiant Universe is all about." 

-Lysa Hawkins, Senior Editor


"The Year of Valiant is all about making Valiant fans proud while offering the perfect opportunity to welcome new readers to one of the most compelling shared universes in comics. With every new comic, I believe readers will be able to see it's always a passion project for the creative team as they respect the rich history of these iconic characters and fully embrace what makes them unique. I'm proud of the road ahead for Valiant and I do hope you'll join us for the adventure."

-Gregg Katzman, Director of Publishing

"There really has never been a more perfect time to show just how much we love the characters and the universe they live in by delivering on the highest quality storytelling in comics and so much more. At its core, The Year of Valiant is all about you, the passionate and dedicated fan community. With a remarkable lineup of titles featuring flagship and fan-favorite characters, the iconic shared Valiant Universe will truly stand out as the place to be for any fan, and we are only just beginning to reveal all of the awesome surprises in store for 2022. I honestly couldn’t be more hyped for the opportunity to be a part of such a special time for Valiant.”

-Nic Osborn, Marketing Coordinator

Stay Valiant, everyone.

 

As always, many thanks to Valiant Comics for sharing this exciting news with us!

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Free Comic Book Day 2021 Report

 

Valiant FCBD 2021 Special

 

If you weren't able to pick up the Valiant FCBD 2021 Special, don't despair. A nearby comic store may still have copies available. In addition to great cover art by Tyler Kirkham and Arif Prianto, the issue includes preview pages for Ninjak, X-O Manowar, and The Harbinger. There's also a X-O Manowar prequel story by Dennis Hopeless Hallum and company that sets up the current series nicely. 

You'll even find an interview with writer Cullen Bunn about his Shadowman series. That came as a surprise to me!

As I was on travel, and expecting 100+ degree Fahrenheit temperatures, I hadn't packed my Valiant T-shirts. (Most are black, and I prefer to launder my best shirts in our own washing machine). But even if I couldn't visit my local store, I made sure to display my Valiant love. When an employee at A-1 Comics in Sacramento noticed my Ninjak mask, he plucked a Valiant FCBD 2021 Special from the table and handed it to me. "I know what you need," he said.

 


 

Incidentally, A-1 Comics is a really top class operation. If you ever find yourself in Sacramento County, California, make sure you visit one of their three stores. They have a great selection of comics, trades, and gaming supplies, as well as a courteous and helpful staff. 

Well, that's my Free Comic Book Day report. Hope you had a great one too. If not, get out there tomorrow! Oh, and be sure to check out Valiant Comics on Twitter too. They're running a limited-time contest. In addition to picking up a great special issue, you could also win some cool Valiant swag!

Dragon Dave

Friday, June 18, 2021

Ninjak Preview of the Valiant 2021 FCBD Special

 

Valiant 2021 FCBD Special Cover by Tyler Kirkham & Arif Prianto

 

This year, Free Comic Book Day will fall on August 14th. Valiant Entertainment is helping fans celebrate this special event with what looks like an issue featuring sneak peaks at upcoming stories. But because you read my blog, and because Valiant is awesome, you don't have to wait two months to read those new Ninjak pages by Ringo Award-winning writer Jeff Parker and acclaimed artist Javier Pulido. No sirree! You can read them now! 

Blow the house down!!!

Ninjak Preview Page 1

Ninjak Preview Pages 2 & 3

Ninjak Preview Page 2

Ninjak Preview Page 3

Ninjak Preview Page 4

Ninjak Preview Page 5

Keep reading this blog in case Valiant Entertainment decides to share those X-O Manowar, Shadowman, and Harbinger sneak peaks from the 2021 FCBD Special with us. Consider it your next mission.

You know, if you choose to accept it.

Dragon Dave

P.S. Ninjak #1 goes on sale July 14th. Order your copy--and your favorite cover--by Final Order Cutoff (F.O.C.) day, June 21st.

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Bloodshot 9 Review: When Monsters Attack

Cover A by Tyler Kirkham

 As we open Bloodshot #9, we read these mission notes from General Grayle


 It's obvious he had little time to write them. The despair he feels is equally palpable.

 

Monsters the size of Godzilla or King Kong are attacking Russia. These weapons were created to protect the former U.S.S.R. Now the renegade spies known as The Burned have released these immense beasts upon their former masters.


General Grayle believes nanites give man the power of the gods. He fears such power could destroy mankind. In controlling Bloodshot, he had hoped his internationally funded defense agency--known as Black Bar--could protect the world against the weapons mankind seems so adept at creating. But Bloodshot is tired of being wielded as someone else's weapon. 

 


That doesn't mean that Bloodshot won't do his best to protect humanity from the dangers these monsters present. But if Grayle thinks he is controlling Bloodshot, he's wrong.

 

 

Mina, also known as Eidolon, has proven a real friend to Bloodshot. Together, they have devised a plan the General knows nothing about. If successful, it will defeat both the monsters ravaging Russia as well as the anarchist organization known as The Burned.

 

 

While General Grayle may be obsessed with controlling or destroying all other nanite-driven beings, Bloodshot sees these monsters in Russia as a mere distraction. In their desire to unleash all the secrets held by the major defense agencies of the world, The Burned pose the greatest possible danger to the world.
 

Bloodshot knows where these renegades are. He knows their intentions. But can he stop them in time?

 


With issue #9, the seeds writer Tim Seeley has planted in earlier issues have grown to maturity. Aided by the art of Marc Laming, Jason Masters, and colorist Andrew Dalhouse, the story unfolds like a big budget movie. Dave Sharpe's fonts, dialogue balloons, and sound effects enhance the sense of urgency,  danger, and determination the characters feel.


Cover B by Kael Ngu

Bloodshot #9, with its choice of covers, brings the story arc begun in issue #7 to conclusion. Can Bloodshot, Mina, and Black Bar contain the monsters in Russia? Can Bloodshot neutralize The Burned? And how does the end of Bloodshot #9 tie in with the appearance of Wilfred Wigans in the Valiant 2020 Free Comic Book Day special?

 

Pre-Order Cover by Jason Metcalf & Stephane Paitreau

What? You honestly think I'm going to tell you?

Dragon Dave