Alex Groff
Aug 25, 2004, 12:40 am
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue_t.jpg" align=left alt="Hellboy Statue"></a>Direct from Dark Horse Comics, here are the publisher's solicitation copies and preview images for products which are due to ship in November 2004.
Click a thumbnail below to view the full-sized preview image in a new browser window.
Compiled by Zachary Jian Morrison
Pre-order any of these items online now at X-World Comics and save! (http://x-worldcomics.com/yourvirtualstore/shopdisplaycategories.asp?id=786&cat=DARK+HORSE)
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Blade_Immortal95.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Blade_Immortal95t.jpg" align=right alt="Blade of the Immortal #95 preview"></a>BLADE OF THE IMMORTAL #95: CONFESSION (one shot)
HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A)
On sale November 10, b&w, 32pg, $2.99
Magatsu, licking his wounds after last issue’s bloody showdown, plays samurai detective after he journeys to the site of an Ittö-ryu massacre. In a weird turnaround, it’s a batch of new Ittö-ryu warriors who are massacred! Crossbow expert Hyakurin is also convalescing, under Giichi’s protection while she slowly becomes battle-ready. A heartbreaking conversation provides some insight into Giichi’s character, and the ever-present Blade cliffhanger leaves us wondering about Hyakurin’s future. Gracing this issue are two stellar pinups by rising comic book stars Jonathan and Joshua Luna!
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/bprd_dead1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/bprd_dead1t.jpg" align=right alt="B.R.P.D. The Dead #1 preview"></a>B.P.R.D. THE DEAD #1 (of 5)
MIKE MIGNOLA (W), JOHN ARCUDI (W), GUY DAVIS (P), and DAVE STEWART (C)
On sale November 3, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Abe Sapien digs up more details of his origin, as the biggest secret in ten years of Hellboy comics continues to unravel. The other members of the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense meet their new team leader, a formerly dead Pentagon special operative, as they move in to their new command center to combat the ongoing plague of frogs.
John Arcudi (Doom Patrol, JLA) joins the team as co-writer, mixing his bizarre brand of action and humor with Mignola’s own unique writing style.
• Wizard says “Guy Davis’ knack for atomspheric horror keeps the mood creepy throughout.”
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue_t.jpg" align=right alt="Classic Comic Book Character #1: Hellboy preview"></a>CLASSIC COMIC BOOK CHARACTER #1: HELLBOY
On sale November 24, 5" tall, packaged in a full-color tin, with a button, and booket, $49.95
Dark Horse has won wide acclaim for its successful series of “Classic Comic” statues, inspired by the “Syroco” statues of the 1940s and sculpted by those fine folks at Yoe! Studio. Nearly 50 different statues have been produced, with many selling out and commanding collector’s prices.
This month , we are thrilled to present the first in a companion series , based on comic book characters rather than newspaper strips. We have chosen to concentrate on characters from the last thirty years, but don’t be surprised if the occasional Golden Age character turns up. While the series will feature characters from a variety of publishers’ books, please forgive us if we lead off with one of the best characters that Dark Horse publishes—Mike Mignola’s Hellboy. Sculpted by Yoe! Studios under Mignola’s supervision.
The statue is offered in an extremely limited edition of 750 numbered pieces. Hellboy comes packaged in a special litho-printed full-color tin box. Also included is a vintage-style pinback button, and booklet about the character and his creator, Mike Mignola.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Conan10.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Conan10t.jpg" align=right alt="Conan #10 preview"></a>CONAN #10
KURT BUSIEK (W), CARY NORD (P), THOMAS YEATES (P), DAVE STEWART (C), and LEINIL FRANCIS YU (Cover)
On November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Conan accused of murder! Burglarizing a lush temple, Conan stumbles across a dead body and is blamed for the crime. But can the city guard even hope to hold him? Part One of our two-part adaptation of Robert E. Howard’s “The God in the Bowl,” a locked-room mystery with broadswords, evil gods, and more. This also marks the first time Conan runs afoul of Thoth-amon, greatest sorcerer of the Hyborian Age, who will be Conan’s most deadly and implacable enemy. Find out how their long rivalry begins.
• Sales continue to climb on Dark Horse’s biggest hit in years!
• Conan was listed as one of Wizard’s Top Ten Books to watch in 2004.
• Eisner winner (Best Single Issue 2003—Conan: The Legend)
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Doctor_Solar_vol1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Doctor_Solar_vol1t.jpg" align=right alt="doctor Solar Man of the Atom Volume 1 hardcover preview"></a>DOCTOR SOLAR MAN OF THE ATOM VOLUME 1 HC
Now one of the classic “super-hero” characters of our time is available in a hardcover collection!
PAUL S. NEWMAN (W), BOB FUJITANI (P), FRANK BOLLE (P)
On sale December 29, HC, 208, FC, 6 1/4" x 10 1/4", $49.95
When industrial sabotage causes an experiment in atomic energy to go awry, nuclear physicist Doctor Phillip Solar is transformed into a living atomic reactor! Now Doctor Solar uses his miraculous energy-based powers to protect the innocent and to thwart the diabolical machinations of the mysterious archcriminal known only as Nuro.
The original incarnation of the classic hero Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom springs to life in this newly remastered collection of classic stories from comics visionaries Bob Fujitani, Frank Bolle, and Paul S. Newman. Reprinted for the first time in nearly forty years, these adventures of Doctor Solar are truly wonders of the atomic age. Fans of Russ Manning, Mac Raboy, or Alex Raymond will be delighted with artist Bob Fujitani’s original depiction of this classic hero in all his radioactive glory. This collection also features two rare cover paintings by legendary science-fiction illustrator Richard Powers!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Freak_Heartland6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Freak_Heartland6t.jpg" align=right alt="Freaks of the Heartland #6 preview"></a>FREAKS OF THE HEARTLAND #6 (of 6)
STEVE NILES (W) and GREG RUTH (A)
On sale November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Young Trevor Owen and his “freak” brother Will are almost at the end of their road— they’ve fled the family farm where Will spent his entire life hidden from the world, chained up in the barn. Their parents are dead. And now they’re on the run from the law while Gristlewood Valley burns with the flames they started. But all the terror and heartbreak will be worth it if they can make it out of the Valley alive—and take the other three living “freak” children the town has hidden with them. But are four six-year-old freaks of nature and two of their “normal” older siblings any match for a well-armed sheriff and his posse? Don’t miss the stunning and heartbreaking conclusion to this year’s most resonant and unpredictable horror series.
• Comics Buyer’s Guide says “Greg Ruth’s darkly sketchy, moodily creepy art evokes the great Gene Colan and fits the disturbing story extremely well.”
GOON LUNCH BOX
On sale December 8, 8" x 7" x 3 3/4", full color, embossed lunch box, $14.99
Whether it’s a two-fisted knuckle sandwich or a peanut butter & jelly, you’re good to go to lunch anywhere with this fabulous new litho-printed lunch box featuring The Goon and his posse of malevolent madmen. Direct from Lonely Street, award-winning creator Eric Powell has created all-new art for this item, making full use of the high-quality color printing and maxing out the mayhem for his growing legion of fans.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Grendel_DevilsReign6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Grendel_DevilsReign6t.jpg" align=right alt="Grendel: Devil's Reign #6 preview"></a>GRENDEL: DEVIL’S REIGN #6 (of 7)
MATT WAGNER (W) and TIM SALE (A)
On sale November 10, FC, 32pg, $3.50
In this penultimate chapter of the saga of the first Grendel-Khan, Orion is nowhere to be found, even as the world heads into total war between East and West! After the loss of his wife, the Khan has disappeared, and now a dangerously unpredictable general has his finger on the nuclear button! And how does Eppy Thatcher, the last incarnation of the Devil, fit into this dire picture? Meanwhile, the increasingly unstable Pellon Cross schemes to free his vampiric brethren from internment—with the bloody help of his now-evangelical following.
• Re-presenting the original Grendel #39, with remastered color by Matt Hollingsworth and Giulia Brusco.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_HotDog.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_HotDog_t.jpg" align=right alt="Hot Stuff Hot Dog preview"></a>HOT STUFF
On sale October 27
Hot Stuff “Hot Dog” Statuette, approximately 6-3/4", $49.99
Hot Stuff “Piggy Bank” Figurine, approximately 3-1/2", $24.99
Hot Stuff “Mmmm!” Figurine, approximately 3-3/4", $24.99
Hot Stuff “Temper Tantrum” Figurine, approximately 3-3/4", $24.99
We just can’t get enough of that fiery little devil! Imported from France and sculpted of the highest quality by Demons and Merveilles, this classic Harvey Comics character continues to get into mischief. We are pleased to add these four new Hot Stuff items to our line.
<table border=0 align=center><tr> <td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_Mmmm.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_Mmmm_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Mmmm preview "></a></td><td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_PiggyBank.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_PiggyBank_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Piggy Bank preview"></a></td><td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_TemperTantrum.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_TemperTantrum_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Temper Tantrum preview "></a></td></tr></table>
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Incredibles1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Incredibles1t.jpg" align=right alt="The Incredibles #1 preview"></a>THE INCREDIBLES #1 (of 4)
Expect the Incredible!
Adapted from a script by BRAD BIRD (W), RICARDO CURTIS (P), and RAMON PEREZ (I)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The city of Municiberg was once protected by many heroes, but its main champion was the ultra-strong Mr. Incredible—who always worked alone. But things went awry for Mr. Incredible and the rest of the Supers when they were hit with a series of lawsuits brought by those they once saved. To diffuse the situation, the government created a relocation program for the Supers—who, in exchange for an end to the lawsuits, went into hiding and promised never to use their powers again.
Now, Mr. Incredible is simply Bob Parr, living the suburban life with his wife Helen and their three children. However, family life and the daily nine-to-five routine aren’t enough for Bob, who frequently sneaks out to do “hero work” in the evenings. Bob’s inability to move on from past glories soon puts a strain on his home life. But one day things take an unexpected turn when Bob is contacted by a mysterious woman who recruits him for some top-secret hero work…
• Adapted from The Incredibles, a Walt Disney Pictures presentation of a Pixar Animation Studios film—in theaters November 5th.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats_t.jpg" align=right alt="Intron Depot Fire Cats T-shirts"></a> <a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats_t.jpg" align=right alt="Intron Depot T-shirts"></a>INTRON DEPOT T-SHIRTS
On sale October 20
Dark Horse is pleased to offer you two new T-shirts featuring the futuristic art of Masamune Shirow. These shirts feature designs from Shirow’s Intron Depot III: Ballistics.
Intron Depot: Police
Ringer tee/white with red/Adult
M-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
Intron Depot: Fire Cats
Ringer tee/white with orange/Adult
M-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Jingle_Belle1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Jingle_Belle1t.jpg" align=right alt="Jingle Belle #1 preview"></a>JINGLE BELLE #1 (of 4)
Paul Dini’s sassy, spunky creation comes to Dark Horse with an all-new four-issue series.
PAUL DINI (W), JOSE GARABALDI (P), and STEPHANIE GLADDEN (P)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The first issue features two stories with Jingle Belle and her gal pal Polly Green stirring up trouble.
In “A Very Special Jingle Belle Special,” Jingle Belle is once again trying to sell her life story as the unsung hero of the holiday season. After several failed attempts Jingle thinks she finally found a way to correct past mistakes. She once again defies Santa’s “no publicity” edict and signs with a cartoon producer to make an all-new animated special. But she soon finds herself facing adversaries even more dangerous than the Blizzard Wizard and his snow monsters—contemporary TV executives!
The “Polly Green Backup Story” finds Jingle’s gal pal Polly Green, fledgling Halloween witch, in quite a predicament. Her family is demanding that she use her magic to conjure up elaborate gifts for them and Polly is sick of being used. Determined to teach her greedy family a lesson, Polly gives one gift to everyone and turns their home into a huge gingerbread mansion. It isn’t long before Polly’s family falls under the spell of the house and devour it, becoming hideously fat. Polly’s relatives beg her to magically make them thin again, but Polly says there’s only one way they can shed those holiday pounds: lots and lots of exercise!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Kingdom_Wicked.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Kingdom_Wicked_t.jpg" align=right alt="Kingdom of the Wicked hardcover preview"></a>KINGDOM OF THE WICKED HC
IAN EDGINTON (W) and D’ISRAELI (A)
On sale December 1, HC, 120pg, FC, 7" x 10", $15.95
Forget J. K. Rowling. Forget Lemony Snicket. Forget Phillip Pullman. Christopher Grahame is the premier children’s author of the twenty-first century.
From a handful of homespun tales told to his own children at bedtime, Chris Grahame is now a publishing phenomenon. With his work translated into everything from Aborigine to Zulu, he is the cornerstone of a multi-million dollar, franchise-spewing empire. Is it any surprise then that under all this pressure something has to give? Unfortunately, it’s Chris’s mind.
Stricken by mysterious headaches and blackouts that plagued his childhood, Chris once again finds himself walking the avenues and boulevards of Castrovalva—the fantasy realm he dreamt up as a boy, to while away his recuperation. But like Chris, Castrovalva has also changed. Deluged in mud, blood, and barbed wire, war has come to wonderland. Chris tries to tell himself it’s all a bad dream ... so why can’t he wake up?
• Ian Edginton and D’Israeli also collaborated on Scarlet Traces, which Entertainment Weekly gave an “A” grade, calling it “bold and shattering.”
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWModel_Kit_Solo.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWModel_Kit_Solo_t.jpg" align=right alt="Kotobukiya Star Wars Han Solo Pre-painted Vinyl Model Kit preview"></a>KOTOBUKIYA STAR WARS HAN SOLO PRE-PAINTED SOFT VINYL MODEL KIT
On sale December 15, 13" tall, vinyl figure, packaged in a window box, $99.99
A new release in our import program of the award-winning Artfx large vinyl Star Wars figures depicts one of the most-requested characters from the original trilogy—Han Solo.
Han and his Wookiee first mate and co-pilot Chewbacca had a variety of adventures throughout the fringe of galactic society. Solo not only made useful allies, but powerful enemies. Han eventually met up with a young gambler named Lando Calrissian. After a period of adventuring, Han won Lando’s freighter, the Millennium Falcon in a heated sabacc game.
As always, Kotobukiya’s attention to detail and great craftsmanship is on display.
SAMURAI EXECUTIONER VOLUME 3 TPB
KAZUO KOIKE (W) and GOSEKI KOJIMA (A)
On sale December 8, SC, 312pg, b&w, 4" x 6", $9.95
Readers of Lone Wolf & Cub came to know a samurai of such high honor that he was not only able to perform but enjoyed and, in fact, learned from basic daily tasks. Cutting wood, cooking food. That wasn’t something a samurai did back in feudal Japan. These same human elements are apparent in Kubikiri Asa, the main character in Samurai Executioner. He’s a man of the people, though his job is to separate many of those same people from their heads.
In this volume, however, we’re treated to three fantastic stories of amazing weapons skill, both on the part of Asa and those around him. Witness, for the first time in this series, a duel between two great samurai, in the slow, contemplative tradition. Observe Asa’s extremely precise sword stroke. And read a charming story of a young peace officer who practices the use of his specialized weaponry to the point of utilitarian, life-saving perfection. It’s more classic samurai stories in our third volume of Samurai Executioner.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Scarygirl_Lunchbox.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Scarygirl_Lunchbox_t.jpg" align=right alt="Scary Girl Lunch Box preview"></a>SCARY GIRL LUNCH BOX
On sale December 8, 8" x 7" x 3 3/4", full color, embossed lunch box, $14.99
One of the most intriguing characters to emerge from the rapidly-evolving contemporary world of “lowbrow” art and toys is Scary Girl. Best seen as an online comic at: scarygirl.com, this outstanding feature has been inspiring us at Dark Horse. Last month we solicited Scary Girl stationery; this month it’s a lunch box! Who knows what’s next?
Best known for creating the “Scary Girl” comic and characters, Nathan Jurevicius hails from Australia, and currently resides with his wife and kids in Toronto, Canada.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWEmpire27.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWEmpire27t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Empire #27 preview"></a>STAR WARS: EMPIRE #27
“General Skywalker” 2 of 2
RON MARZ (W), NICOLA SCOTT (P), MICHAEL ATIYEH (C), and TOMMY LEE EDWARDS (Cover)
On sale November 3, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Luke Skywalker is a pilot for the Rebel Alliance and a Jedi-in-training, but when a Rebel intel team gets pinned down by an unexpected Imperial patrol Luke receives an unexpected promotion—to General! It’s all part of Commander Narra’s plan to enlist the aid of an unexpected ally that could turn the tables on the Imperials.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWObsession1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWObsession1t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Obsession #1 preview"></a>STAR WARS: OBSESSION #1 (of 5)
HADEN BLACKMAN (W), BRIAN CHING (P/Cover), and BRAD ANDERSON (Cover)
On sale November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
While Anakin Skywalker enjoys a brief respite from the Clone Wars (and a reunion with his secret wife Padmé Amidala), Obi-Wan Kenobi embarks on a “personal” mission.
Kenobi’s first stop is a frontier town on the swamp world of Trigalis, where he fights a small army of bounty hunters, duels with a crime lord who has ties to Count Dooku, and obtains undercover help from fellow Jedi Aayla Secura. All that just to verify a rumor about an enemy that he can’t forget.
Obi-Wan is becoming obsessed, and he knows it. But the danger of flirting with the dark side is a risk he’s willing take to save the person about whom he cares most in the galaxy.
Dark Horse sets its sights on the events leading up to the most anticipated event in Star Wars history: Episode III—Revenge of the Sith!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWRepublic71.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWRepublic71t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Republic #71 preview"></a>STAR WARS: REPUBLIC #71
“The Dreadnaughts Of Rendili” (3 of 3)
JOHN OSTRANDER (W), JAN DUURSEMA (P/Cover), DAN PARSONS (I), and BRAD ANDERSON (C)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The action is fast and furious as the Jedi pull out all stops to prevent the Separatists from commandeering the mighty Rendili Fleet.
Anakin Skywalker and renegade Jedi Quinlan Vos team up in their starfighters, Vos is finally captured and broght to justice for his crimes, and Anakin has what he hopes will be a final showdown with dark Jedi Asajj Ventress high above the dark alleys of Coruscant!
Against the backdrop of the Clone Wars, dark deeds are made to seem right, so that even a Jedi might condone revenge!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SMB47.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SMB47t.jpg" align=right alt="Super Manga Blast! #47 preview"></a>SUPER MANGA BLAST! #47
MOHIRO KITOH (W/A), MAKOTO KOBAYASHI (W/A), KENICHI SONODA (W/A), YUZO TAKADA (W/A), and HIROYUKI UTATANE (W/A) with YO MORIMOTO (W/A)
On sale November 24, b&w, 128pg, $5.99
Kenichi Sonoda’s current Cannon God Exaxxion story arc nears its conclusion, with Earth’s champion attempting to outwit and outmaneuver the alien invaders’ massive robot, piloted by the cunning Colonel Hulan’ki. Makoto Kobayashi’s slice-of-Tokyo-life drama, Club 9, sees the naïve Haruo back at her hostess job and troubled pitcher Koji Uryü struggling to regain past successes. Kobayashi’s Eisner-Nominated What’s Michael? offering features a rare 13-page story, some cute kittens, and ONE DANGEROUS BABY! Seraphic Feather illustrates how a doomed shuttle in the cold vacuum of space just doesn’t mix well with treacherous super-soldiers and enraged, meta-human U.N. agents! Shiina returns to the pages of Shadow Star, with a new look, a new scar, and plenty of new school troubles.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset1t.jpg" align=right alt="Tim Burton Boxed Set #1"></a>TIM BURTON BOXED SETS
Oyster Boy Book and Voodoo Girl Figure Boxed Set
On sale January 12, The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, Voodoo Girl PVC figure, packaged in a 7" x 4" x 9 1/2" double-sided window box, $24.99
We are pleased to announce that by special arrangement with Tim Burton and Harper-Collins, we are creating a special deluxe package featuring Burton’s hardcover book, The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, packaged with a specially created figure of Voodoo Girl.
Many collectors have acquired the PVC figure sets based on characters from the book, but Voodoo Girl is being brought forward for the first time exclusively for this package, which is a deluxe 7" x 4" x 9 1/2" double-sided window box. One side displays the book cover and the other side frames the elaborately detailed figure.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset2t.jpg" align=right alt="Tim Burton's Stick Boy & Match Girl Note Cards and Figures Boxed Set preview"></a>Stick Boy & Match Girl Note Cards and Figures Boxed Set
On sale January 12, 2 PVC figures (Stick Boy & Match Girl), 8 note cards (2 designs), 8 envelopes, packaged in a faux match custom box . . . $17.99
We have discovered the perfect gift set for two of Tim Burton’s favorite characters, those star-crossed lovebirds named Stick Boy and Match Girl. We have created two 4" pvc figures of the duo, which are only available in this package. Included are a set of eight note cards ( 4 each of two designs) and envelopes, featuring Tim Burton’s original drawings of the characters. We also have included a card that reprints the short poem that tells the story of this ill-fated romance.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Pin_Cushion_Queen_tshirt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Pin_Cushion_Queen_tshirt_t.jpg" align=right alt="Aliens vs. Predator: Thrill of the Hunt TPB preview"></a><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Mummy_tshirt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Mummy_tshirt_t.jpg" align=right alt="Aliens vs. Predator: Thrill of the Hunt TPB preview"></a>TIM BURTON T-SHIRTS
On sale October 20
Visionary director Tim Burton is also the author/illustrator of The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, a cute and creepy book of endearing tales about strange misfit boys and girls. Our line of merchandise is based on characters from this work, and this month we bring you two new additions to our popular t-shirt line.
Pin Cushion Queen
Cap sleeve babydoll tee/White with red/Adult
S-XL $17.99
Mummy Boy
Plain tee/Gray/Adult
S-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Ultraman_Tiga_vol2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Ultraman_Tiga_vol2t.jpg" align=right alt="Ultraman Tiga Volume 2: Past Sins, Present Dangers TPB preview"></a>ULTRAMAN TIGA VOLUME 2: PAST SINS, PRESENT DANGERS TPB
TONY WONG (W) and KHOO FUK LUNG (A)
On sale December 29, SC, 200pg, FC, 6" x 9", $19.95
Perhaps one of the most popular of Asia’s cultural icons, Ultraman has charmed fans and fired imaginations since the 1960s. Appearing across both the Anime and Manga media, the character continues to grow in popularity thanks to a devoted fanbase and the ability to constantly reinvent itself.
This incarnation of Ultraman, now called “Tiga,” finds the 100-foot-tall hero revived in the year 2049 and facing a world ill-equipped to handle the onslaught of gigantic beasts that are peppering the globe. Melding incredible sci-fi concepts with some of the most exciting action sequences ever put to paper, Ultraman Tiga continues to punch, kick, and karate-chop his way into the hearts of fans around the world. Collecting issue #5-#10 of the series.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Usagi_Yojimbo80.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Usagi_Yojimbo80t.jpg" align=right alt="Usagi Yojimbo #80 preview"></a>USAGI YOJIMBO #80
STAN SAKAI (W/A)
On sale November 24, 24pg, b&w, $2.99
Join Dark Horse in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Usagi Yojimbo with this last issue of the year! Wandering through feudal Japan, masterless samurai Usagi Yojimbo now encounters a man developing a flying machine! The contraption’s design is based on sketches by an Italian visionary, and though Dr. Takenoko has endured many failures in his quest to soar the skies, he now believes that he has perfected a prototype! However, a thief has learned of his endeavors, and plots to murder the good doctor and claim the machine for himself…if only he can get rid of Usagi! Find out “If Rabbits Could Fly,” this month in Usagi Yojimbo!
• Usagi Yojimbo is a 2004 Young Adult Library Services Association award winner!
Stan Sakai has won many industry awards, including a Parents’ Choice Award, an Inkpot Award, multiple Eisner Awards, and the prestigious National Cartoonists Society Comic Book Division Award.
NOVEMBER CHECKLIST
COMICS
B.P.R.D.: The Dead #1 • $2.99 • 10-031
Blade of the Immortal #95: Confession (one-shot) • $2.99 • 13-314
Conan #10 • $2.99 • 13-026
Freaks of the Heartland #6 • $2.99 • 13-185
Grendel: Devil’s Reign #6 • $3.50 • 13-224
The Incredibles #1 • $2.99 • 10-381
Jingle Belle #1 • $2.99 • 13-104
Star Wars: Empire #27 • $2.99 • 10-176
Star Wars: Obsession #1 • $2.99 • 10-563
Star Wars: Republic #71 • $2.99 • 13-085
Super Manga Blast! #47 • $5.99 • 10-287
Usagi Yojimbo #80 • $2.99 • 12-910
TRADE PAPERBACKS AND HARDCOVERS
Doctor Solar, Man of Atom (hardcover collection) • $49.95 • 10-187
Kingdom of the Wicked (hardcover collection) • $15.95 • 13-257
Samurai Executioner Volume 3 (trade-paperback collection) • $9.95 • 13-292
Ultraman Tiga Volume 2: Past Sins, Present Dangers (trade-paperback collection) • $19.95 • 13-092
SPECIALITY ITEMS
Classic Comic Book Characters #1: Hellboy statue • $49.95 • 13-191
The Goon Lunch Box • $14.99 • 10-261
Hot Stuff “Hot Dog” Statue • $49.99 • 10-369
Hot Stuff “Mmmm!” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-371
Hot Stuff “Piggy Bank” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-370
Hot Stuff “Temper Tantrum” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-372
Intron Depot Fire Cats T-shirt 10-496
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Intron Depot Police T-shirt 10-494
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Kotobukiya Star Wars Han Solo Pre-Painted Soft Vinyl Model Kit • $99.99 • 10-567
Scary Girl Lunch Box • $14.99 • -560
Tim Burton Mummy Boy T-shirt 10-388
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Tim Burton Pin Cushion Queen T-shirt 10-387
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Tim Burton Stick Boy & Match Girl Notecard and Figures Box Set • $17.99 • 10-378
Tim Burton Voodoo Girl Book and Figure Box Set • $24.99 • 10-377
Dark Horse Comics®, Rocket Comics™, Extra™, Dark Horse Presents™, Crush™, DHP™, The Mask™, Barb Wire™, Galactic™, Ghost™, Go Boy 7™, Dark Horse Heroes™, Hell™, Lone™, The Nevermen™, SpyBoy™, Syn™, Dark Horse Classics™, The Nevermen™, The Dark Horse Book of Hauntings™, The Dark Horse Book of Witchcraft™, and the Dark Horse logo are all trademarks of Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Blade of the Immortal © 2004 by Hiroaki Samura. All rights reserved. New and adapted artwork and text copyright 2004 Studio Proteus and Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • B.P.R.D., Hellboy™ © 2004 Mike Mignola. • Conan® and Conan the Barbarian® (including all prominent characters featured in this issue) and the distinctive likenesses thereof are trademarks of Conan Properties International, LLC unless otherwise noted. All contents © Conan Properties International, LLC unless otherwise noted. • Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom © 2004 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. • Text of Freaks of the Heartland™ © 2004 Steve Niles. Illustrations © Greg Ruth. • The Goon™ © 2004 Eric Powell. • Grendel: Devil’s Reign © 2004 by Matt Wagner. Grendel™ is a trademark of Matt Wagner. • The Incredibles © 2004 Disney Enterprises, Inc./Pixar Animation Studios. • Jingle Belle™ © 2004 Paul Dini. • Kingdom of the Wicked™ © 2004 Ian Edginton and D’Israeli. • Samurai Executioner™ © 2004 Koike Kazuo and Kojima Goseki. Translation and adaptation, and all other material, unless otherwise specified, ™ & © 2004 Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Star Wars© Lucasfilm Ltd. & ™. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. • Super Manga Blast!™ Dark Horse Comics, Inc. Shadow Star copyright © 2004 by Mohiro Kitoh. 3x3 Eyes copyright © 2004 by Yuzo Takada. New and adapted artwork and text of the above titles copyright 2004 Studio Proteus and Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Tim Burton products ©2004 Tim Burton. • Ultraman © 1996, 2004 Tsuburaya Productions Co., Ltd. • Usagi Yojimbo™ & © 2003 Stan Sakai.
Click a thumbnail below to view the full-sized preview image in a new browser window.
Compiled by Zachary Jian Morrison
Pre-order any of these items online now at X-World Comics and save! (http://x-worldcomics.com/yourvirtualstore/shopdisplaycategories.asp?id=786&cat=DARK+HORSE)
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Blade_Immortal95.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Blade_Immortal95t.jpg" align=right alt="Blade of the Immortal #95 preview"></a>BLADE OF THE IMMORTAL #95: CONFESSION (one shot)
HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A)
On sale November 10, b&w, 32pg, $2.99
Magatsu, licking his wounds after last issue’s bloody showdown, plays samurai detective after he journeys to the site of an Ittö-ryu massacre. In a weird turnaround, it’s a batch of new Ittö-ryu warriors who are massacred! Crossbow expert Hyakurin is also convalescing, under Giichi’s protection while she slowly becomes battle-ready. A heartbreaking conversation provides some insight into Giichi’s character, and the ever-present Blade cliffhanger leaves us wondering about Hyakurin’s future. Gracing this issue are two stellar pinups by rising comic book stars Jonathan and Joshua Luna!
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/bprd_dead1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/bprd_dead1t.jpg" align=right alt="B.R.P.D. The Dead #1 preview"></a>B.P.R.D. THE DEAD #1 (of 5)
MIKE MIGNOLA (W), JOHN ARCUDI (W), GUY DAVIS (P), and DAVE STEWART (C)
On sale November 3, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Abe Sapien digs up more details of his origin, as the biggest secret in ten years of Hellboy comics continues to unravel. The other members of the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense meet their new team leader, a formerly dead Pentagon special operative, as they move in to their new command center to combat the ongoing plague of frogs.
John Arcudi (Doom Patrol, JLA) joins the team as co-writer, mixing his bizarre brand of action and humor with Mignola’s own unique writing style.
• Wizard says “Guy Davis’ knack for atomspheric horror keeps the mood creepy throughout.”
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/hellboy_statue_t.jpg" align=right alt="Classic Comic Book Character #1: Hellboy preview"></a>CLASSIC COMIC BOOK CHARACTER #1: HELLBOY
On sale November 24, 5" tall, packaged in a full-color tin, with a button, and booket, $49.95
Dark Horse has won wide acclaim for its successful series of “Classic Comic” statues, inspired by the “Syroco” statues of the 1940s and sculpted by those fine folks at Yoe! Studio. Nearly 50 different statues have been produced, with many selling out and commanding collector’s prices.
This month , we are thrilled to present the first in a companion series , based on comic book characters rather than newspaper strips. We have chosen to concentrate on characters from the last thirty years, but don’t be surprised if the occasional Golden Age character turns up. While the series will feature characters from a variety of publishers’ books, please forgive us if we lead off with one of the best characters that Dark Horse publishes—Mike Mignola’s Hellboy. Sculpted by Yoe! Studios under Mignola’s supervision.
The statue is offered in an extremely limited edition of 750 numbered pieces. Hellboy comes packaged in a special litho-printed full-color tin box. Also included is a vintage-style pinback button, and booklet about the character and his creator, Mike Mignola.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Conan10.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Conan10t.jpg" align=right alt="Conan #10 preview"></a>CONAN #10
KURT BUSIEK (W), CARY NORD (P), THOMAS YEATES (P), DAVE STEWART (C), and LEINIL FRANCIS YU (Cover)
On November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Conan accused of murder! Burglarizing a lush temple, Conan stumbles across a dead body and is blamed for the crime. But can the city guard even hope to hold him? Part One of our two-part adaptation of Robert E. Howard’s “The God in the Bowl,” a locked-room mystery with broadswords, evil gods, and more. This also marks the first time Conan runs afoul of Thoth-amon, greatest sorcerer of the Hyborian Age, who will be Conan’s most deadly and implacable enemy. Find out how their long rivalry begins.
• Sales continue to climb on Dark Horse’s biggest hit in years!
• Conan was listed as one of Wizard’s Top Ten Books to watch in 2004.
• Eisner winner (Best Single Issue 2003—Conan: The Legend)
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Doctor_Solar_vol1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Doctor_Solar_vol1t.jpg" align=right alt="doctor Solar Man of the Atom Volume 1 hardcover preview"></a>DOCTOR SOLAR MAN OF THE ATOM VOLUME 1 HC
Now one of the classic “super-hero” characters of our time is available in a hardcover collection!
PAUL S. NEWMAN (W), BOB FUJITANI (P), FRANK BOLLE (P)
On sale December 29, HC, 208, FC, 6 1/4" x 10 1/4", $49.95
When industrial sabotage causes an experiment in atomic energy to go awry, nuclear physicist Doctor Phillip Solar is transformed into a living atomic reactor! Now Doctor Solar uses his miraculous energy-based powers to protect the innocent and to thwart the diabolical machinations of the mysterious archcriminal known only as Nuro.
The original incarnation of the classic hero Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom springs to life in this newly remastered collection of classic stories from comics visionaries Bob Fujitani, Frank Bolle, and Paul S. Newman. Reprinted for the first time in nearly forty years, these adventures of Doctor Solar are truly wonders of the atomic age. Fans of Russ Manning, Mac Raboy, or Alex Raymond will be delighted with artist Bob Fujitani’s original depiction of this classic hero in all his radioactive glory. This collection also features two rare cover paintings by legendary science-fiction illustrator Richard Powers!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Freak_Heartland6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Freak_Heartland6t.jpg" align=right alt="Freaks of the Heartland #6 preview"></a>FREAKS OF THE HEARTLAND #6 (of 6)
STEVE NILES (W) and GREG RUTH (A)
On sale November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Young Trevor Owen and his “freak” brother Will are almost at the end of their road— they’ve fled the family farm where Will spent his entire life hidden from the world, chained up in the barn. Their parents are dead. And now they’re on the run from the law while Gristlewood Valley burns with the flames they started. But all the terror and heartbreak will be worth it if they can make it out of the Valley alive—and take the other three living “freak” children the town has hidden with them. But are four six-year-old freaks of nature and two of their “normal” older siblings any match for a well-armed sheriff and his posse? Don’t miss the stunning and heartbreaking conclusion to this year’s most resonant and unpredictable horror series.
• Comics Buyer’s Guide says “Greg Ruth’s darkly sketchy, moodily creepy art evokes the great Gene Colan and fits the disturbing story extremely well.”
GOON LUNCH BOX
On sale December 8, 8" x 7" x 3 3/4", full color, embossed lunch box, $14.99
Whether it’s a two-fisted knuckle sandwich or a peanut butter & jelly, you’re good to go to lunch anywhere with this fabulous new litho-printed lunch box featuring The Goon and his posse of malevolent madmen. Direct from Lonely Street, award-winning creator Eric Powell has created all-new art for this item, making full use of the high-quality color printing and maxing out the mayhem for his growing legion of fans.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Grendel_DevilsReign6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Grendel_DevilsReign6t.jpg" align=right alt="Grendel: Devil's Reign #6 preview"></a>GRENDEL: DEVIL’S REIGN #6 (of 7)
MATT WAGNER (W) and TIM SALE (A)
On sale November 10, FC, 32pg, $3.50
In this penultimate chapter of the saga of the first Grendel-Khan, Orion is nowhere to be found, even as the world heads into total war between East and West! After the loss of his wife, the Khan has disappeared, and now a dangerously unpredictable general has his finger on the nuclear button! And how does Eppy Thatcher, the last incarnation of the Devil, fit into this dire picture? Meanwhile, the increasingly unstable Pellon Cross schemes to free his vampiric brethren from internment—with the bloody help of his now-evangelical following.
• Re-presenting the original Grendel #39, with remastered color by Matt Hollingsworth and Giulia Brusco.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_HotDog.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_HotDog_t.jpg" align=right alt="Hot Stuff Hot Dog preview"></a>HOT STUFF
On sale October 27
Hot Stuff “Hot Dog” Statuette, approximately 6-3/4", $49.99
Hot Stuff “Piggy Bank” Figurine, approximately 3-1/2", $24.99
Hot Stuff “Mmmm!” Figurine, approximately 3-3/4", $24.99
Hot Stuff “Temper Tantrum” Figurine, approximately 3-3/4", $24.99
We just can’t get enough of that fiery little devil! Imported from France and sculpted of the highest quality by Demons and Merveilles, this classic Harvey Comics character continues to get into mischief. We are pleased to add these four new Hot Stuff items to our line.
<table border=0 align=center><tr> <td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_Mmmm.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_Mmmm_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Mmmm preview "></a></td><td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_PiggyBank.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_PiggyBank_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Piggy Bank preview"></a></td><td align=middle><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_TemperTantrum.jpg"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/HS_TemperTantrum_t.jpg" alt="Hot Stuff Temper Tantrum preview "></a></td></tr></table>
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Incredibles1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Incredibles1t.jpg" align=right alt="The Incredibles #1 preview"></a>THE INCREDIBLES #1 (of 4)
Expect the Incredible!
Adapted from a script by BRAD BIRD (W), RICARDO CURTIS (P), and RAMON PEREZ (I)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The city of Municiberg was once protected by many heroes, but its main champion was the ultra-strong Mr. Incredible—who always worked alone. But things went awry for Mr. Incredible and the rest of the Supers when they were hit with a series of lawsuits brought by those they once saved. To diffuse the situation, the government created a relocation program for the Supers—who, in exchange for an end to the lawsuits, went into hiding and promised never to use their powers again.
Now, Mr. Incredible is simply Bob Parr, living the suburban life with his wife Helen and their three children. However, family life and the daily nine-to-five routine aren’t enough for Bob, who frequently sneaks out to do “hero work” in the evenings. Bob’s inability to move on from past glories soon puts a strain on his home life. But one day things take an unexpected turn when Bob is contacted by a mysterious woman who recruits him for some top-secret hero work…
• Adapted from The Incredibles, a Walt Disney Pictures presentation of a Pixar Animation Studios film—in theaters November 5th.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats_t.jpg" align=right alt="Intron Depot Fire Cats T-shirts"></a> <a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Intron_Fire_Cats_t.jpg" align=right alt="Intron Depot T-shirts"></a>INTRON DEPOT T-SHIRTS
On sale October 20
Dark Horse is pleased to offer you two new T-shirts featuring the futuristic art of Masamune Shirow. These shirts feature designs from Shirow’s Intron Depot III: Ballistics.
Intron Depot: Police
Ringer tee/white with red/Adult
M-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
Intron Depot: Fire Cats
Ringer tee/white with orange/Adult
M-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Jingle_Belle1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Jingle_Belle1t.jpg" align=right alt="Jingle Belle #1 preview"></a>JINGLE BELLE #1 (of 4)
Paul Dini’s sassy, spunky creation comes to Dark Horse with an all-new four-issue series.
PAUL DINI (W), JOSE GARABALDI (P), and STEPHANIE GLADDEN (P)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The first issue features two stories with Jingle Belle and her gal pal Polly Green stirring up trouble.
In “A Very Special Jingle Belle Special,” Jingle Belle is once again trying to sell her life story as the unsung hero of the holiday season. After several failed attempts Jingle thinks she finally found a way to correct past mistakes. She once again defies Santa’s “no publicity” edict and signs with a cartoon producer to make an all-new animated special. But she soon finds herself facing adversaries even more dangerous than the Blizzard Wizard and his snow monsters—contemporary TV executives!
The “Polly Green Backup Story” finds Jingle’s gal pal Polly Green, fledgling Halloween witch, in quite a predicament. Her family is demanding that she use her magic to conjure up elaborate gifts for them and Polly is sick of being used. Determined to teach her greedy family a lesson, Polly gives one gift to everyone and turns their home into a huge gingerbread mansion. It isn’t long before Polly’s family falls under the spell of the house and devour it, becoming hideously fat. Polly’s relatives beg her to magically make them thin again, but Polly says there’s only one way they can shed those holiday pounds: lots and lots of exercise!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Kingdom_Wicked.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Kingdom_Wicked_t.jpg" align=right alt="Kingdom of the Wicked hardcover preview"></a>KINGDOM OF THE WICKED HC
IAN EDGINTON (W) and D’ISRAELI (A)
On sale December 1, HC, 120pg, FC, 7" x 10", $15.95
Forget J. K. Rowling. Forget Lemony Snicket. Forget Phillip Pullman. Christopher Grahame is the premier children’s author of the twenty-first century.
From a handful of homespun tales told to his own children at bedtime, Chris Grahame is now a publishing phenomenon. With his work translated into everything from Aborigine to Zulu, he is the cornerstone of a multi-million dollar, franchise-spewing empire. Is it any surprise then that under all this pressure something has to give? Unfortunately, it’s Chris’s mind.
Stricken by mysterious headaches and blackouts that plagued his childhood, Chris once again finds himself walking the avenues and boulevards of Castrovalva—the fantasy realm he dreamt up as a boy, to while away his recuperation. But like Chris, Castrovalva has also changed. Deluged in mud, blood, and barbed wire, war has come to wonderland. Chris tries to tell himself it’s all a bad dream ... so why can’t he wake up?
• Ian Edginton and D’Israeli also collaborated on Scarlet Traces, which Entertainment Weekly gave an “A” grade, calling it “bold and shattering.”
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWModel_Kit_Solo.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWModel_Kit_Solo_t.jpg" align=right alt="Kotobukiya Star Wars Han Solo Pre-painted Vinyl Model Kit preview"></a>KOTOBUKIYA STAR WARS HAN SOLO PRE-PAINTED SOFT VINYL MODEL KIT
On sale December 15, 13" tall, vinyl figure, packaged in a window box, $99.99
A new release in our import program of the award-winning Artfx large vinyl Star Wars figures depicts one of the most-requested characters from the original trilogy—Han Solo.
Han and his Wookiee first mate and co-pilot Chewbacca had a variety of adventures throughout the fringe of galactic society. Solo not only made useful allies, but powerful enemies. Han eventually met up with a young gambler named Lando Calrissian. After a period of adventuring, Han won Lando’s freighter, the Millennium Falcon in a heated sabacc game.
As always, Kotobukiya’s attention to detail and great craftsmanship is on display.
SAMURAI EXECUTIONER VOLUME 3 TPB
KAZUO KOIKE (W) and GOSEKI KOJIMA (A)
On sale December 8, SC, 312pg, b&w, 4" x 6", $9.95
Readers of Lone Wolf & Cub came to know a samurai of such high honor that he was not only able to perform but enjoyed and, in fact, learned from basic daily tasks. Cutting wood, cooking food. That wasn’t something a samurai did back in feudal Japan. These same human elements are apparent in Kubikiri Asa, the main character in Samurai Executioner. He’s a man of the people, though his job is to separate many of those same people from their heads.
In this volume, however, we’re treated to three fantastic stories of amazing weapons skill, both on the part of Asa and those around him. Witness, for the first time in this series, a duel between two great samurai, in the slow, contemplative tradition. Observe Asa’s extremely precise sword stroke. And read a charming story of a young peace officer who practices the use of his specialized weaponry to the point of utilitarian, life-saving perfection. It’s more classic samurai stories in our third volume of Samurai Executioner.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Scarygirl_Lunchbox.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Scarygirl_Lunchbox_t.jpg" align=right alt="Scary Girl Lunch Box preview"></a>SCARY GIRL LUNCH BOX
On sale December 8, 8" x 7" x 3 3/4", full color, embossed lunch box, $14.99
One of the most intriguing characters to emerge from the rapidly-evolving contemporary world of “lowbrow” art and toys is Scary Girl. Best seen as an online comic at: scarygirl.com, this outstanding feature has been inspiring us at Dark Horse. Last month we solicited Scary Girl stationery; this month it’s a lunch box! Who knows what’s next?
Best known for creating the “Scary Girl” comic and characters, Nathan Jurevicius hails from Australia, and currently resides with his wife and kids in Toronto, Canada.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWEmpire27.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWEmpire27t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Empire #27 preview"></a>STAR WARS: EMPIRE #27
“General Skywalker” 2 of 2
RON MARZ (W), NICOLA SCOTT (P), MICHAEL ATIYEH (C), and TOMMY LEE EDWARDS (Cover)
On sale November 3, FC, 32pg, $2.99
Luke Skywalker is a pilot for the Rebel Alliance and a Jedi-in-training, but when a Rebel intel team gets pinned down by an unexpected Imperial patrol Luke receives an unexpected promotion—to General! It’s all part of Commander Narra’s plan to enlist the aid of an unexpected ally that could turn the tables on the Imperials.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWObsession1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWObsession1t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Obsession #1 preview"></a>STAR WARS: OBSESSION #1 (of 5)
HADEN BLACKMAN (W), BRIAN CHING (P/Cover), and BRAD ANDERSON (Cover)
On sale November 17, FC, 32pg, $2.99
While Anakin Skywalker enjoys a brief respite from the Clone Wars (and a reunion with his secret wife Padmé Amidala), Obi-Wan Kenobi embarks on a “personal” mission.
Kenobi’s first stop is a frontier town on the swamp world of Trigalis, where he fights a small army of bounty hunters, duels with a crime lord who has ties to Count Dooku, and obtains undercover help from fellow Jedi Aayla Secura. All that just to verify a rumor about an enemy that he can’t forget.
Obi-Wan is becoming obsessed, and he knows it. But the danger of flirting with the dark side is a risk he’s willing take to save the person about whom he cares most in the galaxy.
Dark Horse sets its sights on the events leading up to the most anticipated event in Star Wars history: Episode III—Revenge of the Sith!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWRepublic71.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SWRepublic71t.jpg" align=right alt="Star Wars: Republic #71 preview"></a>STAR WARS: REPUBLIC #71
“The Dreadnaughts Of Rendili” (3 of 3)
JOHN OSTRANDER (W), JAN DUURSEMA (P/Cover), DAN PARSONS (I), and BRAD ANDERSON (C)
On sale November 24, FC, 32pg, $2.99
The action is fast and furious as the Jedi pull out all stops to prevent the Separatists from commandeering the mighty Rendili Fleet.
Anakin Skywalker and renegade Jedi Quinlan Vos team up in their starfighters, Vos is finally captured and broght to justice for his crimes, and Anakin has what he hopes will be a final showdown with dark Jedi Asajj Ventress high above the dark alleys of Coruscant!
Against the backdrop of the Clone Wars, dark deeds are made to seem right, so that even a Jedi might condone revenge!
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SMB47.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/SMB47t.jpg" align=right alt="Super Manga Blast! #47 preview"></a>SUPER MANGA BLAST! #47
MOHIRO KITOH (W/A), MAKOTO KOBAYASHI (W/A), KENICHI SONODA (W/A), YUZO TAKADA (W/A), and HIROYUKI UTATANE (W/A) with YO MORIMOTO (W/A)
On sale November 24, b&w, 128pg, $5.99
Kenichi Sonoda’s current Cannon God Exaxxion story arc nears its conclusion, with Earth’s champion attempting to outwit and outmaneuver the alien invaders’ massive robot, piloted by the cunning Colonel Hulan’ki. Makoto Kobayashi’s slice-of-Tokyo-life drama, Club 9, sees the naïve Haruo back at her hostess job and troubled pitcher Koji Uryü struggling to regain past successes. Kobayashi’s Eisner-Nominated What’s Michael? offering features a rare 13-page story, some cute kittens, and ONE DANGEROUS BABY! Seraphic Feather illustrates how a doomed shuttle in the cold vacuum of space just doesn’t mix well with treacherous super-soldiers and enraged, meta-human U.N. agents! Shiina returns to the pages of Shadow Star, with a new look, a new scar, and plenty of new school troubles.
FOR MATURE READERS
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset1t.jpg" align=right alt="Tim Burton Boxed Set #1"></a>TIM BURTON BOXED SETS
Oyster Boy Book and Voodoo Girl Figure Boxed Set
On sale January 12, The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, Voodoo Girl PVC figure, packaged in a 7" x 4" x 9 1/2" double-sided window box, $24.99
We are pleased to announce that by special arrangement with Tim Burton and Harper-Collins, we are creating a special deluxe package featuring Burton’s hardcover book, The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, packaged with a specially created figure of Voodoo Girl.
Many collectors have acquired the PVC figure sets based on characters from the book, but Voodoo Girl is being brought forward for the first time exclusively for this package, which is a deluxe 7" x 4" x 9 1/2" double-sided window box. One side displays the book cover and the other side frames the elaborately detailed figure.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Boxset2t.jpg" align=right alt="Tim Burton's Stick Boy & Match Girl Note Cards and Figures Boxed Set preview"></a>Stick Boy & Match Girl Note Cards and Figures Boxed Set
On sale January 12, 2 PVC figures (Stick Boy & Match Girl), 8 note cards (2 designs), 8 envelopes, packaged in a faux match custom box . . . $17.99
We have discovered the perfect gift set for two of Tim Burton’s favorite characters, those star-crossed lovebirds named Stick Boy and Match Girl. We have created two 4" pvc figures of the duo, which are only available in this package. Included are a set of eight note cards ( 4 each of two designs) and envelopes, featuring Tim Burton’s original drawings of the characters. We also have included a card that reprints the short poem that tells the story of this ill-fated romance.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Pin_Cushion_Queen_tshirt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Pin_Cushion_Queen_tshirt_t.jpg" align=right alt="Aliens vs. Predator: Thrill of the Hunt TPB preview"></a><a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Mummy_tshirt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Tim_Burton_Mummy_tshirt_t.jpg" align=right alt="Aliens vs. Predator: Thrill of the Hunt TPB preview"></a>TIM BURTON T-SHIRTS
On sale October 20
Visionary director Tim Burton is also the author/illustrator of The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories, a cute and creepy book of endearing tales about strange misfit boys and girls. Our line of merchandise is based on characters from this work, and this month we bring you two new additions to our popular t-shirt line.
Pin Cushion Queen
Cap sleeve babydoll tee/White with red/Adult
S-XL $17.99
Mummy Boy
Plain tee/Gray/Adult
S-XL $17.99
XXL $19.99
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Ultraman_Tiga_vol2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Ultraman_Tiga_vol2t.jpg" align=right alt="Ultraman Tiga Volume 2: Past Sins, Present Dangers TPB preview"></a>ULTRAMAN TIGA VOLUME 2: PAST SINS, PRESENT DANGERS TPB
TONY WONG (W) and KHOO FUK LUNG (A)
On sale December 29, SC, 200pg, FC, 6" x 9", $19.95
Perhaps one of the most popular of Asia’s cultural icons, Ultraman has charmed fans and fired imaginations since the 1960s. Appearing across both the Anime and Manga media, the character continues to grow in popularity thanks to a devoted fanbase and the ability to constantly reinvent itself.
This incarnation of Ultraman, now called “Tiga,” finds the 100-foot-tall hero revived in the year 2049 and facing a world ill-equipped to handle the onslaught of gigantic beasts that are peppering the globe. Melding incredible sci-fi concepts with some of the most exciting action sequences ever put to paper, Ultraman Tiga continues to punch, kick, and karate-chop his way into the hearts of fans around the world. Collecting issue #5-#10 of the series.
<a href="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Usagi_Yojimbo80.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="Http://www.comixfan.com/xfan/images/previews/dh/1104/Usagi_Yojimbo80t.jpg" align=right alt="Usagi Yojimbo #80 preview"></a>USAGI YOJIMBO #80
STAN SAKAI (W/A)
On sale November 24, 24pg, b&w, $2.99
Join Dark Horse in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Usagi Yojimbo with this last issue of the year! Wandering through feudal Japan, masterless samurai Usagi Yojimbo now encounters a man developing a flying machine! The contraption’s design is based on sketches by an Italian visionary, and though Dr. Takenoko has endured many failures in his quest to soar the skies, he now believes that he has perfected a prototype! However, a thief has learned of his endeavors, and plots to murder the good doctor and claim the machine for himself…if only he can get rid of Usagi! Find out “If Rabbits Could Fly,” this month in Usagi Yojimbo!
• Usagi Yojimbo is a 2004 Young Adult Library Services Association award winner!
Stan Sakai has won many industry awards, including a Parents’ Choice Award, an Inkpot Award, multiple Eisner Awards, and the prestigious National Cartoonists Society Comic Book Division Award.
NOVEMBER CHECKLIST
COMICS
B.P.R.D.: The Dead #1 • $2.99 • 10-031
Blade of the Immortal #95: Confession (one-shot) • $2.99 • 13-314
Conan #10 • $2.99 • 13-026
Freaks of the Heartland #6 • $2.99 • 13-185
Grendel: Devil’s Reign #6 • $3.50 • 13-224
The Incredibles #1 • $2.99 • 10-381
Jingle Belle #1 • $2.99 • 13-104
Star Wars: Empire #27 • $2.99 • 10-176
Star Wars: Obsession #1 • $2.99 • 10-563
Star Wars: Republic #71 • $2.99 • 13-085
Super Manga Blast! #47 • $5.99 • 10-287
Usagi Yojimbo #80 • $2.99 • 12-910
TRADE PAPERBACKS AND HARDCOVERS
Doctor Solar, Man of Atom (hardcover collection) • $49.95 • 10-187
Kingdom of the Wicked (hardcover collection) • $15.95 • 13-257
Samurai Executioner Volume 3 (trade-paperback collection) • $9.95 • 13-292
Ultraman Tiga Volume 2: Past Sins, Present Dangers (trade-paperback collection) • $19.95 • 13-092
SPECIALITY ITEMS
Classic Comic Book Characters #1: Hellboy statue • $49.95 • 13-191
The Goon Lunch Box • $14.99 • 10-261
Hot Stuff “Hot Dog” Statue • $49.99 • 10-369
Hot Stuff “Mmmm!” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-371
Hot Stuff “Piggy Bank” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-370
Hot Stuff “Temper Tantrum” Figurine • $24.99 • 10-372
Intron Depot Fire Cats T-shirt 10-496
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Intron Depot Police T-shirt 10-494
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Kotobukiya Star Wars Han Solo Pre-Painted Soft Vinyl Model Kit • $99.99 • 10-567
Scary Girl Lunch Box • $14.99 • -560
Tim Burton Mummy Boy T-shirt 10-388
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Tim Burton Pin Cushion Queen T-shirt 10-387
S-XL • $17.99
XXL • $19.99
Tim Burton Stick Boy & Match Girl Notecard and Figures Box Set • $17.99 • 10-378
Tim Burton Voodoo Girl Book and Figure Box Set • $24.99 • 10-377
Dark Horse Comics®, Rocket Comics™, Extra™, Dark Horse Presents™, Crush™, DHP™, The Mask™, Barb Wire™, Galactic™, Ghost™, Go Boy 7™, Dark Horse Heroes™, Hell™, Lone™, The Nevermen™, SpyBoy™, Syn™, Dark Horse Classics™, The Nevermen™, The Dark Horse Book of Hauntings™, The Dark Horse Book of Witchcraft™, and the Dark Horse logo are all trademarks of Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Blade of the Immortal © 2004 by Hiroaki Samura. All rights reserved. New and adapted artwork and text copyright 2004 Studio Proteus and Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • B.P.R.D., Hellboy™ © 2004 Mike Mignola. • Conan® and Conan the Barbarian® (including all prominent characters featured in this issue) and the distinctive likenesses thereof are trademarks of Conan Properties International, LLC unless otherwise noted. All contents © Conan Properties International, LLC unless otherwise noted. • Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom © 2004 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. • Text of Freaks of the Heartland™ © 2004 Steve Niles. Illustrations © Greg Ruth. • The Goon™ © 2004 Eric Powell. • Grendel: Devil’s Reign © 2004 by Matt Wagner. Grendel™ is a trademark of Matt Wagner. • The Incredibles © 2004 Disney Enterprises, Inc./Pixar Animation Studios. • Jingle Belle™ © 2004 Paul Dini. • Kingdom of the Wicked™ © 2004 Ian Edginton and D’Israeli. • Samurai Executioner™ © 2004 Koike Kazuo and Kojima Goseki. Translation and adaptation, and all other material, unless otherwise specified, ™ & © 2004 Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Star Wars© Lucasfilm Ltd. & ™. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. • Super Manga Blast!™ Dark Horse Comics, Inc. Shadow Star copyright © 2004 by Mohiro Kitoh. 3x3 Eyes copyright © 2004 by Yuzo Takada. New and adapted artwork and text of the above titles copyright 2004 Studio Proteus and Dark Horse Comics, Inc. • Tim Burton products ©2004 Tim Burton. • Ultraman © 1996, 2004 Tsuburaya Productions Co., Ltd. • Usagi Yojimbo™ & © 2003 Stan Sakai.