FreakShow - Making of the Comic

FREAKSHOW Hits Comikaze Expo This Weekend!

2011-11-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Los Angeles! Need to get your copy of the FREAKSHOW trade paperback, or get it signed by the creators? Well you're in luck! Co-writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing will be in attendance at this weekend's Comikaze Expo at the LA Convention Center at Booth #144! Not only will we be selling and signing, but you can also come find us on the DARKNESS RISING: NEW VOICES IN HORROR Panel on Saturday at 1pm in Room 4, the TALES OF BREAKING INTO COMICS Panel on Saturday at 3pm in Room 5, and the FUTURE OF DIGITAL COMICS Panel on Sunday at 3pm in Room 306AB! See you there!

FREAKSHOW #3 & Trade Paperback Reviews Hit!

2011-09-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

With both the third and final issue and the trade paperback collection of FREAKSHOW on shelves nationwide, we've gotten some great critical feedback on the full saga! Here are some of the things the critics have had to say!

AIN'T IT COOL NEWS: Server and Lanzing have crafted a masterful mystery with their series...The Freaks (and indeed, the entirety of the series itself) are an intriguing blend of classic comic book genres. There’s the obvious superhero influence (especially that of X-MEN) in the protagonists’ abilities (as much a curse as they are assets…again, shades of X-MEN) and their code names. There’s the science fiction element in the scenario of the chemical weapons and the quarantined city, though this also crosses over into the horror genre, bringing to mind such killer virus films as “28 Days Later” and “I Am Legend.” The horror elements are pushed further to the fore in the characters of Psychosis and Rot, both of whom look like they could have stepped out of any number of midnight movies. These disparate elements could have easily made for a thematically jarring read, but Server and Lanzing blend them effortlessly into a backdrop for the characters—which is really what FREAKSHOW is all about.

COMIC BOOK THERAPY: Freakshow progressed at a steady pace from the first issue, increasing in violence and accelerating in cadence until it reached an epic final issue filled to the brim with huge panels of artfully detailed gore and, more importantly, a thick, juicy slab of perfectly cooked writing...It's hard to fill a whole page without revealing any major plot details, because the story is linear enough to leave no loose ends. There's a major plot twist in the end, as there always should be, and it's as exciting to read as it is heartbreaking to fully grasp...I promise, you will not be disappointed.

THE FANDOM POST: There is just an outstanding amount of praise to be thrown at this book. A lot of superhero books try to pull off the outsider or “why me” angles and a number of them fall flat as a lot of those powers bring on some responsibility but not a large percentage of those in the stories are burdened with abilities that mark them as clearly either more than or less than human depending on one’s perspective. In Freakshow the characters can’t escape and hide in normal society due to their appearance. This is then made double in its painful toll as the event that gave them their appearance came at the cost of everyone and everything they had known and they band together like the circus acts of old for community as well as protection.

Hit the links for their full reviews! And thanks to everyone for their coverage and their support! To get *your* copy of the FREAKSHOW trade paperback, contact your local retailer or click here to order a copy directly from Things from Another World!

FREAKSHOW Trade Paperback Hits Stores Wednesday!

2011-08-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

That's right - the full collected edition of FREAKSHOW, to date only available at last month's Comic-Con International in San Diego, will officially be hitting stores nationwide this Wednesday, August 10th! Above is a look at our trade dress, including some of the very kind words said about the book from various press outlets as well as from UP IN THE AIR and X-MEN: FIRST CLASS screenwriter (and attached Freakshow movie producer) Sheldon Turner!

Inside the collection, you'll receive not only the entire epic saga including issues #1-3, but also an exclusive pin-up gallery featuring guest artwork from such talents as Drew Rausch (ELDRITCH!), Chris Houghton (Image Comics' REED GUNTHER), Jorge Lacera (concept artist for BIOSHOCK), Francisco Ruiz Velasco (concept artist for HELLBOY II and THE HOBBIT) and more. Additionally, the collection features an introduction from attached Freakshow movie writer-director, Mark Protosevich (screenwriter of I AM LEGEND and THOR)! Be sure to ask your local retailer if they've ordered the trade from Diamond as copies are still available!

FREAKSHOW #3 and Trade Paperback Premiere and Signings at San Diego Comic-Con 2011!

2011-07-18T15:45:00.001-07:00

You heard it here first, folks! FREAKSHOW #3, the grand finale, will sneak for sale at this week's San Diego Comic-Con along with the FREAKSHOW Trade Paperback, collecting the entire saga! The Trade Paperback will include an *exclusive* pin-up gallery from some of our extremely talented friends from the comic book, film, and video game industries showing off their takes on our cast of characters. The collected edition also features an introduction by attached FREAKSHOW movie writer/director Mark Protosevich, who is a guest of the convention this year to discuss his screenplay adaptation of the video game MASS EFFECT for Legendary Entertainment.

Both issue #3 and the trade will be available for sale all week at the Ape Entertainment booth, #1804, but the entire creative team (including writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing and artist Joe Suitor) will be at the booth signing from 4-5pm on Thursday, 4-5pm on Friday, 5-6pm on Saturday, and 4-5pm on Sunday! Be sure to swing by and get your copy signed - we'll see you there!

FREAKSHOW #3 and Trade Paperback Head to Print!

2011-07-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

That's right, folks! FREAKSHOW #3, our big finale, is en route to the printers! Not only that, but our trade paperback collection of the entire FREAKSHOW saga (including our trade-exclusive pin-up gallery) is also being put together as we speak. We'll update you with in-store dates for both releases when we get them, but both items are currently available for pre-order from Diamond, so have your local retailer request them by name *now* if you want to make sure you get your copy.

Here's an issue #3 sneak peek to help get you motivated. We think the image speaks for itself, but basically, when Stronghold wants something? Stay the hell out of his way.

FREAKSHOW Movie Mention in The Hollywood Reporter!

2011-06-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

The FREAKSHOW movie adaptation got a great shout-out in trade publication The Hollywood Reporter today where it was announced that attached Freakshow writer/director Mark Protosevich is in talks to help Steven Spielberg relaunch the Jurassic Park franchise! We're blown away to be in such amazing creative company, and we want to congratulate Mark on this exciting news - we'll be first in line! Click here to head over to THR to read the full story!

FREAKSHOW #1 Now Available Digitally on Graphicly!

2011-06-14T21:10:00.001-07:00

The wait is finally over! Start the FREAKSHOW saga from the very beginning with your very own digital copy of Issue #1!

Thanks to our friends over at Graphicly, you can now purchase our first issue online in its entirety and read it on your desktop, iPad, iPhone or Android. Issues #2 and #3 will also eventually appear on the site as well. Head over to Graphicly's FREAKSHOW page, or purchase the book through the embed below to get started!

FREAKSHOW Fan Art by Alex Tuis, Daniel Vest and Collin Kelly!

2011-05-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

One of the most exciting things about launching a new series is discovering all the creative fans out there who want to put their spin on your characters! We've been lucky enough to receive some really awesome fan art since the book launched in January, and we wanted to share some of it with you today.

First up, here's concept artist Alex Tuis' eye-popping take on STRONGHOLD! Alex is a designer whose work can be seen in publishing, video games and film, having worked on such features as FRONTIERE(S) by Xavier Gens, DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION by James Wong, and BLOOD THE LAST VAMPIRE by Ronnie Yu! Check out more of his oustanding artwork at his official site.

Next up, 3D artist Daniel Vest was kind enough to render two of our characters, CRITTER and ROT, in his unique digital style! Daniel is the creator of the upcoming comic book CODENAME: ZEUS, which you can read all about on his official facebook page!

Finally, our good friend, frequent creative collaborator and fellow recent USC Film School graduate screenwriter Collin Kelly has provided us with an amazing stencil-art rendering of PSYCHOSIS!

Thanks so much to everyone who was inspired to show us their versions of the team! We're fortunate to have such talented and passionate fans. And to any other artists out there who want to take a crack at visualizing something from FREAKSHOW, please send us your take and we'll post it up on the blog and the facebook page as well!

FREAKSHOW at Wizard World Anaheim Comic Con!

2011-04-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Just a reminder - the FREAKSHOW creative team will all be present at Wizard World's Anaheim Comic Con TODAY (4/30) and TOMORROW (5/1)! Co-writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing can be found at booth #1613, and artist Joe Suitor at #1306. We'll have issue #2 with us to sign, so swing by and say hey! See you over there!

FREAKSHOW #2 In Stores Today!!

2011-04-27T23:18:00.000-07:00

FREAKSHOW #2 has hit stores nationwide today! We have confirmed reports that the second issue has arrived in many locations, but certain stores may also be getting their shipments in next week (5/4), so you may want to call ahead to make sure your local comic shop already has their copies in stock. And what say the critics?

The Girly Nerd: Freakshow proved to be an excellent demonstration of action and science fiction in its first book, but it showed its heart, spirit, and message in the second. Writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing have very insightful views on the topics presented. I appreciate the fresh view on the topic that I’ve seen done quite a bit. These guys somehow manage to avoid all the pitfalls and cliches. I am a sucker for old concepts done in new ways and intelligent writing, so this book is dripping with rich, sugary goodness – in the best possible way, of course.

The Fandom Post: Critter as the central focus is the right way to go as he’s the heart of the book and we get to see all sides of the story because of him. What continues to draw me to the book is the way that those that are basically considered the heroes even though others don’t see them that way are basically all science experiments at this point and are still being put through the process. The story progresses here but it doesn’t stray much from what made the first issue both enjoyable and something of a challenge to read and enjoy.

Comics Bulletin: There's no indication of laziness in making either the artwork or the plot, and that shines through. Both issues were a clear indication of the perfect teamwork by the creators. Freakshow has a little bit of everything: disaster, tragedy, genetic mutations, revenge, crazy doctors, mystery, friendship and that gray area of right and wrong. In a short time -- I believe the first issue came out roughly six months ago and the second comes out April 27 -- this series has rapidly become one of my favorites and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who's interested in comics.

We're thrilled to see the book continuing to connect with our readers! Hit the links for their full reviews. And be sure to grab *your* copy before it sells out!

Issue #2 Diamond Preview, Comic Book Therapy Review & Trade Paperback Pre-Order!

2011-04-21T18:12:00.001-07:00

With FREAKSHOW #2 now officially set for release in comic stores nationwide this Wednesday (4/27), Diamond's PREVIEWS website has launched an exclusive 5 page preview of some interior art from the book, spotlighting us and citing us as "eerie stuff!" Click here to check it out, but beware - MAJOR SPOILERS are found in their selected pages!

Next up, Comic Book Therapy has posted their review of issue #2! Here's an excerpt:

"The art is consistent in style, with a dark, Aeon-Flux-y feel to it, and a style reminiscent of 80’s epics. Every panel is highly detailed, with great colors and good dialogue balance to top it all. There’s an all-around great use of perspective, although the faces may seem a little distorted form time to time. Still, the amount of attention put to corpses makes it all worth it. Buy it, please. I can even loan you the cash"

Thanks, guys! Glad you enjoyed it! Click here for their full review.

Finally, the FREAKSHOW trade paperback, which will be available for sale July 27th 2011, is already available for pre-order! The collection will not only include the full series (including the hard-to-find issue #1), but also an EXCLUSIVE pin-up gallery from some of our very talented friends in the comic book, film, and video game industries! We're geeked to share them with you, so make sure to secure your copy now. Our order code is MAY110811 - tell your local store to order today, or pre-order from Midtown Comics or Urban Collector!

FREAKSHOW #2: In Store Dates & Aint It Cool News Review!

2011-04-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

It's been an exciting day here at Freakshow HQ! First off, we received our comp copies of FREAKSHOW #2 from the printers this morning, and they look fantastic! Word from Ape Entertainment is that Diamond got the shipment of the book yesterday, and will likely be putting the book in stores next week on the east coast, and in two weeks on the west coast. Check with your local retailer to make sure they ordered issue #2, and if not, provide them with our issue #2 Diamond order code, DEC100718, and they can still get copies of the book!

Next up, we've got our first review of FREAKSHOW #2, and it's a big one! Ambush Bug of Aint It Cool News weighs in on both issues, and has some very positive things to say! Here's a taste:

"I love the cast of characters, from the bounding Critter to the hulking Stronghold to the decaying Rot to the ghost-like Fog and the insanity of Psychosis. All of these characters are iconically designed with superpowers just as unique...Issue two does a great job of delving deeper into each of the characters' personalities and seeing how they work off one another...Art by Joe Suitor is yet another nice element to this series. His vivid panels are rich with depth, action, and nice angles, plus again, the character designs of these freaks are fantastic. Highly recommended."

WOW! Thanks so much for the support, Bug! Click here for the full review.

We should have issue #2 with us on hand at the Wizard World Anaheim convention at the end of the month, so we hope to see you there!

Cammy's Comic Corner Interview & Wizard World Anaheim Appearance!

2011-04-06T15:30:00.001-07:00

While we eagerly await FREAKSHOW #2 returning from the printer, we've been on a non-stop comic con marathon! Although we were unable to attend the Emerald City Comicon (next year for sure!), we were able to attend both C2E2 in Chicago last month and WonderCon in San Francisco this past weekend. It's been a blast talking to fans and fellow comics professionals about the book, and we've been thrilled with the response we've been getting on all fronts.

During our time walking the floor at WonderCon, we were pleased to be able to conduct a video interview with the awesome team over at Cammy's Comic Corner. Click here to hear their podcast rundown of the convention, and here for their video interview with us about FREAKSHOW. Thanks for all your support, guys! We'll see you at San Diego in July!

And we're not close to done with our convention tour. We're thrilled to announce that the entire FREAKSHOW creative team will be present at this month's Wizard World Anaheim Convention! The event will take place April 29th-May 1st at the Anaheim Convention Center. We'll have our own booths, so please swing by and say hey! We'll update as soon as we have booth specifics. Looking forward to seeing you there!

FREAKSHOW #2 Heads to Printers!

2011-03-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

That's right - FREAKSHOW #2 is now locked and on its way to the printers! We'll update you as soon as we have an official in-store date for the book, but to tide you over until then, here's a sneak preview. Rot can take a lot of damage, but with Gaghen's entire army coming down on him, even he may have his limits...

New FREAKSHOW Coverage on CBR, WPR, Comic Booked and Graphic Policy!

2011-03-02T15:25:00.001-08:00

We've been doing more of the press rounds to spread the word on FREAKSHOW, so here's the latest rundown!

First up, click here to read our interview with Comic Book Resources, where we discuss the origins of the series and characters, provide some teases about issue #2, and also share some brand new never-before-seen character designs by series artist Joe Suitor!

Next, the guys over at WatchPlayRead caught up with us after their issue #1 review to discuss the writing process that went into the book! We discuss co-writing, finding an artist, and the pitching process. Click here to read more!

Comic Booked followed up on their awesome premiere party coverage with an exclusive interview with Freakshow cover artist and comic book industry legend Darick Robertson to talk about how he got involved in the project! Click here to read Darick's thoughts on the process of creating his variant cover!

Finally, Graphic Policy has reviewed issue #1, and had some glowing things to say!

"The comic shares more with super hero comics than horror. It's main characters might be freaks, but the writing makes you sympathetic towards them. The background as to what caused them to gain their abilities is interesting and different. I don't even know how best to describe the series. It's just fantastic. The mood, story, art, it's all great. Ape Entertainment should have a hit on their hands. Recommendation: Buy."

Thanks so much, guys - so pleased you enjoyed it! Click here for their full review!

Keep it here for more updates as they come in!

Stronghold Canvas Sketch by Joe Suitor!

2011-02-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

We had a blast at our Freakshow #1 signing event at Golden Apple Comics a couple weeks ago, but one highlight was when fan Jesse Campbell asked artist Joe Suitor for a canvas sketch of a character from the series!

As you can see, Joe jumped right in to oblige and ended up creating a really cool little bit of art that we wanted to share with the rest of you! We contacted Jesse and he sent over this scan of his sketch, depicting one pissed-off Stronghold in extreme close-up. Enjoy!

WatchPlayRead calls FREAKSHOW #1 "A Must Have For Your Hold!"

2011-02-04T17:12:00.000-08:00

The guys over at WatchPlayRead have some great things to say about issue #1 of FREAKSHOW!

"Forget all the other top accolades I've given you, I'm easily putting them aside to put Freakshow as the comic I will use to introduce/get people excited about the genre. The writing by David Server & Jackson Lanzing is just damn good. The story is so original and the storytelling puts my bedtime stories I tell my 3 year old to get him to sleep to shame. The setting of a post apocalyptic city and how the characters got their powers through genetic scrambling was good enough for me to read the comic three times."

Consider us flattered - glad you dug it, WPR! Click here to read their full review!

Steve Niles names FREAKSHOW his Creator-Owned Book of the Day!

2011-02-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

Famed comic book scribe Steve Niles (30 DAYS OF NIGHT, CRIMINAL MACABRE) has named FREAKSHOW his Creator-Owned Book of the Day via Facebook! Niles has been on a mission to help spotlight creator-owned comics lately, and we're incredibly proud to be on his radar.

Click here to check out Niles' new creator-owned comics column on his official website and find out about some other great creator-owned projects currently on the stands! And thanks again to Mr. Niles for his support on FREAKSHOW!

Release Party Rundown, Fangoria Interview and More Reviews!

2011-02-01T15:07:00.001-08:00

It’s been a crazy week here at FREAKSHOW HQ as we’ve been celebrating the release of the book, with exciting developments on several fronts!

First up, intrepid reporter Nicole Sixx of Comic Booked joined us at Golden Apple Comics this past Saturday for our release party blowout. To say it was a once in a lifetime experience still wouldn’t do it justice – so we’ll let Nicole fill you in on the details! Click here to read her Comic Booked Exclusive Report, including photos and a two-part video interview with co-writers David Server & Jackson Lanzing and artist Joe Suitor!

Next, following their rave review of FREAKSHOW #1, Fangoria has posted an interview with series co-creators David Server and Jackson Lanzing, discussing the horror genre’s influence on the series, character designs and future plans! Click here to read the full piece.

And finally, we’ve had more positive reviews flooding in – here are some excerpts!

The Cedar Rapids Comic Books Examiner: “The writing team of David Server and Jackson Lanzing put together a cleverly crafted 48 page opener to their three issue series... With beautiful rendered art by Joe Suitor, the team creates an interesting super-powered world without any clear cut good guys and bad guys. Their world exists solely in shades of gray, much like the smoke that surrounds its setting. Did I mention it was 48 pages, in color, for only $3.99? That’s one of the best deals in comics today.”

Comic Book Resources: “Server and Lanzing are obviously setting up the heroes and villains, with Critter wondering if the “freaks” really need to live out in the wasteland and kill anyone who ventures near them…Meanwhile, Suitor’s art is quite good… The “freaks” of the title are neat-looking, and there’s some nice horror touches that make the book a bit scarier.”

Brutal As Hell: “This is the kind of comic that comic fans crave…The storytelling in this book is fantastic. This first issue sets everything up with a great premise, and it leaves doors open for a ton of great potential reveals to come…Server and Lanzing’s writing is pitch perfect. They’ve created a unique world here populated by some incredibly interesting characters…Let’s not forget the art work on display here, though. Joe Suitor’s pencils and coloring perfectly define this bleak world, a world full of action, perverse monstrosities, and seeping atmosphere at every corner.”

Once again, we are incredibly excited to see our world and characters catching on with readers. Thanks to everyone for the support! More updates to come!

FREAKSHOW #1 Signing at Golden Apple Comics TONIGHT!

2011-01-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Hey Los Angeles! Don't forget - the entire FREAKSHOW creative team, including co-writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing, artist Joe Suitor, and special guest variant cover artist and comic book legend Darick Robertson (Transmetropolitan, The Boys) will all be signing FREAKSHOW #1 at Golden Apple Comics on Melrose from 5-7pm TONIGHT!! Trust us - you're not gonna want to miss this!

See you tonight!

FREAKSHOW #1 SELLS OUT!

2011-01-27T18:10:00.000-08:00

We're thrilled to announce that FREAKSHOW #1 has SOLD OUT at the retailer level! Thanks so much to all the comic book stores who took a chance on us and ordered the book - we couldn't have reached this amazing milestone without your support! For full details, see the Ape Entertainment press release below!

DEBUT ISSUE OF FREAKSHOW SELLS OUT FROM APE ENTERTAINMENT

DARK SUPERHERO SAGA TAKES COMIC SHOPS BY STORM

Ape Entertainment is pleased to announce that FREAKSHOW #1, the debut creator-owned comic from creators David Server & Jackson Lanzing with art by rising star Joe Suitor, has sold out from the publisher. This marks an exciting start for the highly anticipated miniseries, which is poised to introduce a new, original brand of post-apocalyptic superhero action to audiences all over the world.

"FREAKSHOW is an incredibly exciting project with roots in the superhero, science-fiction, and horror genres, so we knew we'd be able to turn some heads with comics fans", says Ape Co-Publisher David Hedgecock, "but the response to the book from fans and retailers has been truly overwhelming. We're thrilled to finally get this book into the hands of our readers."

The sell-out follows an auspicious preview run at the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, which also sold out on the convention floor. Interest has been bolstered by positive early reviews from such websites as SlashFilm and Comic Book Resources, as well as the attachment of veteran screenwriter Mark Protosevich (I AM LEGEND, THOR, the upcoming MASS EFFECT), who has been announced to write and possibly direct a feature adaptation of the comic for producers Jennifer Klein (PEARL HARBOR) and Sheldon Turner (UP IN THE AIR).

"We've always hoped the world of FREAKSHOW would resonate with people, so the feedback we've gotten so far from fans we've met at conventions and online has been tremendously exciting and gratifying," said Server. "We couldn't be more thankful that retailers are taking a chance on our book," adds Lanzing, "and we plan to reward readers with three issues of characters, story, and art that's like nothing else on the stands."

Since Ape Entertainment recognizes that this sell-out will limit retailers from ordering further copies of FREAKSHOW #1, there are plans to release a digital version of the book as soon as possible. A similar digital format is planned for issues #2 and #3, and details will be announced by Ape upon release.

To find out for yourself why Fangoria gave FREAKSHOW #1 four out of four skulls, calling it "noteworthy and original" with "stylish artwork and attention grabbing storytelling", make sure to contact your local retailer and reserve a copy as soon as possible. The book will be arriving in stores January 26th, and will be followed monthly by issues #2 and #3. Those issues are still available for ordering from Diamond Comics distribution using ordering codes #DEC100718 and #JAN110927 respectively.

For more information about FREAKSHOW, visit http://www.freakshowcomic.com.

You can also join our 1,200+ member fan community and get exclusive access to original art and updates at http://www.facebook.com/freakshowcomic.

For the latest on Ape Entertainment, including the successful KiZoic line, please visit http://apecomics.com.

So now that you have the scoop - get out there and snag YOUR copy before it's too late!

FREAKSHOW #1 IN STORES TODAY!!!

2011-01-26T16:01:00.000-08:00

Today's the day - FREAKSHOW #1 is officially in stores nationwide! And we're thrilled to report that it looks like the critics like what they see! Here's some of the tremendous press we've received recently:

Mania.com: "With a 48 page opening issue, Freakshow has the time to really spend on working over the setting and introducing the characters without feeling rushed...There's a lot to like here, especially if you're not keen on the whole superhero thing, and it has a really good polish about it that lets it stand out. Definitely worth checking out, especially for the number of pages there are for it."

Comic Book Therapy: "Even for the first issue, the characters show a depth that very few people achieve, and I had a geekgasm over it. I love the fact that there are no dumb text boxes explaining anything to anyone. It makes the reader feel like they'd just intruded in someone else's conversation. It puts you in a position where you are afraid to search for explanations out of fear of missing something important. It's beautiful."

The Pop Culture Network: "APE Entertainment has a gem of a comic in Freakshow. The characters all have unique voices and visual styles. The story is engaging, visceral and intelligent. The villain is evil and despicable without being too cartoony and overdone. Freakshow is currently being solicited as a 3 issue story, but if this first issue is any indication, an ongoing series could easily be centered around this group of Freaks, if not just [Critter] himself."

GeekWeek: "I can't stop thinking how refreshing this read was. I've got just as bad a taste in my mouth left over from the decades of post-apocalyptic comics crowding the shelves as you do. But this book, believe me, is different. The Lanzing/Server/Suitor team has graced the earth with a gift, kids, that gift, is Freakshow. Freakshow #1 gets a 5 out of 5."

WOW! Thanks to everyone for all the amazing praise! Hit the links to read their full reviews. And go grab YOUR copy of FREAKSHOW #1 today - before it runs out!

Comic Book Therapy Calls FREAKSHOW #1 "Engaging" and "Interesting!"

2011-01-25T11:21:00.000-08:00

Another great review of FREAKSHOW #1 came in today from Comic Book Therapy! Here's an excerpt:

"Writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing write each character with a clear and distinct personality, even minor characters feel well fleshed out...Right away you know who these characters are so you don't have to worry about a heavy narrative into their backstories to get a grasp of who they are...The art is amazing! Joe Suitor did a fine job on art duties. Reading this book made it feel like I was looking at still shots from an animated feature. The cell-shaded coloring combines with many well composed panels and rack focus effects really give the sense that you're looking at something very cinematic."

Wow! Much appreciated, guys! Click here for their full review. And don't forget - FREAKSHOW #1 will be available in your local comic shop TOMORROW, so get ready to snag your copy soon!

FREAKSHOW #1 Signing Event at Golden Apple Comics!

2011-01-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

FREAKSHOW #1 drops in comics shops nationwide next week, and we're celebrating in style!

The guys over at Golden Apple Comics in Los Angeles have graciously agreed to host us on Saturday, January 29th from 5-7pm to celebrate the book's release, and the whole creative team, including co-writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing and artist Joe Suitor, will be on hand to sign copies and hang out! Not only that, but issue #1 variant cover artist and comic book industry legend Darick Robertson (of TRANSMETROPOLITAN and THE BOYS fame) will also be in the store signing with us! We're thrilled and excited to co-host this event with Golden Apple, and hope you'll come join us to celebrate and get your copy! Click here for all the details and to RSVP via Facebook!

See you there!

FANGORIA On FREAKSHOW #1: "Highly Recommended!"

2011-01-17T21:58:00.000-08:00

This just in! Leading horror genre publication FANGORIA has reviewed FREAKSHOW #1, giving us four out of four skulls! Here's an excerpt from their review:

"Writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing have spent tremendous effort building the apocalyptic setting and characters. At a gradual pace, they reveal clues about their freakish characters, giving each member of the group a chance to breathe...Joe Suitor's artwork is quite pulpy and effective, with each monster standing out on their own due to their specific designs."

Thanks so much for the kind words! Click here to read their full review!

Meet Psychosis at ComicBooked.com!

2011-01-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, FREAKSHOW fans! Hope your 2011 is off to a great start. To help kick off the new year right, we've cooked up an exclusive interview with the folks over at Comic Booked! For a sneak preview of the team's twisted telepath Psychosis, including an exclusive full splash page of art previewed above and an interview with the creative team conducted by series editor Isaiah Samson, click here now! And don't forget, the book drops THIS MONTH on January 26th, so expect more in the weeks leading up to release. Now - enter the mind of Psychosis...if you dare!

FREAKSHOW #3 Solicitation Hits Comics Continuum!

2010-12-23T12:21:00.000-08:00

Comics Continuum has the final solicitation information and cover for FREAKSHOW #3, the series finale!

Climactic final issue! Stronghold leads a desperate assault on the Quarantine Zone to extract Critter, but all is not as it appears. And when the team discovers the horrifying truth behind The Smoke, everything changes! Will they finally rise to save the city or die trying?

Will this be Critter's finest hour...or his last stand? Make sure to pick up the shocking conclusion this March to find out!

Joe Suitor in BATMAN 80 PAGE GIANT 2010 Today!

2010-12-02T12:08:00.000-08:00

Did you dig Joe Suitor's high resolution FREAKSHOW #1 pages yesterday? Well then we've got good news for you - Joe's got a short story in DC Comics' BATMAN 80 PAGE GIANT 2010, in stores today! And if that's not enough for you, Joe's work can also be found in issues #1 and #2 of IDW's TRANSFORMERS: SECTOR 7, also currently available in stores!

First Six Pages of FREAKSHOW #1 in High Resolution!

2010-12-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

As a follow-up to our exclusive preview posted on Ain't It Cool News, we wanted to give you guys a higher resolution look at the first six pages of issue #1 of FREAKSHOW drawn by Joe Suitor! Joe puts a lot of great detail into every panel, often drawing each element separately before digitally compositing the final image, and we're excited to share a closer look at that detail with you in these pages. Enjoy!

FREAKSHOW #2 Cover Art by Joe Suitor!

2010-11-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

As recently revealed on Midtown Comics where it is now officially available for pre-order, here's Joe Suitor's cover art for FREAKSHOW #2!

Things certainly aren't looking good for Rot, Fog and Critter...but you're going to have to wait until February to find out what happens! Our Diamond Previews order code for issue #2 is DEC100718, so tell your retailer! In the meantime, enjoy the cover!

FREAKSHOW #1 Exclusive Sneak Preview on AIN'T IT COOL NEWS!

2010-11-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

With January's FREAKSHOW #1 fast approaching, we thought you guys might want a first look at the interiors of the book itself - and what better way to spotlight them than on the great granddaddy of all things geek, Ain't It Cool News! That's right - hit the link to head over to AICN Comics where you can get an *exclusive* sneak preview of the FIRST SIX PAGES of FREAKSHOW #1! We can't think of a more fitting way to celebrate officially hitting 1000 fans on our Facebook page. You guys rock! Keep spreading the word: FREAKSHOW is coming! Now hurry up and hit that link!

FREAKSHOW #2 Solicitation Info Hits Newsarama!

2010-11-17T12:53:00.000-08:00

Newsarama has the world premiere of the Diamond Previews catalogue solicitation text for issue #2 of FREAKSHOW, shipping to stores in February 2011! What can you expect in the second installment? Take a look!

With their mysterious campaign for vengeance uncovered, the team is forced to fight on their own turf as Dr. Gaghen's troops swarm the abandoned school. Critter's down - who's next? It's a desperate struggle for survival that will leave permanent scars on both sides, and force long-buried secrets to rise...

You're gonna have to pick up the issue come February for more! We'll have the order code shortly so you can place your order with your local retailer. Plus - keep an eye out for the premiere of FREAKSHOW artist Joe Suitor's issue #2 cover art here on the blog soon! Trust us, you're gonna want to see this!

Pre-Order FREAKSHOW Through Online Retailers!

2010-11-16T11:05:00.001-08:00

Now that FREAKSHOW #1 has appeared in Diamond's Previews catalogue, it's rapidly appearing at online retailers all around the internet for pre-order! For those of you who don't have a nearby comics shop to pick up the book come January, use one of these links and have the book shipped to you directly. We're currently available through Things From Another World on the West Coast, Midtown Comics in New York, Forbidden Planet in the UK, Westfield Comics online catalogue, and more by the day - we'll keep you posted as they continue to crop up!

New Pin-Up by Alan Robinson

2010-10-31T23:01:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! As promised, we're back with a special Halloween treat for all you loyal FREAKSHOW fans out there. Even while we're hard at work on wrapping production on the series, we're already planning ahead for our trade paperback collection, which will be released upon the book's completion this spring. Along with all 112 pages of story from the monthly series, the collection will feature a brand new trade-exclusive pin-up section where some of our very talented friends in the comic book community have graciously provided us with their spin on the characters of FREAKSHOW! We've already collected most of the artwork and it's been a blast to see how everyone views our team with a wide variety of styles represented.

In the spirit of today's monstrous holiday, we wanted to give you a little preview of what you can expect from the full gallery. Here's the team as rendered by the amazingly talented Alan Robinson (LOST SQUAD, WEEKLY WORLD NEWS, TERMINATOR: SALVATION).

Alan did a fantastic job capturing Stronghold, Critter, Rot, Fog, and Psychosis in all their eerie glory! Check out Alan's official site to see more of his gorgeous artwork and get updates on all his other upcoming projects. And if you like this, be sure to pick up the FREAKSHOW trade paperback next year to see more great artwork from some of the best talents in the industry!

Enjoy the pin-up - and Happy Halloween!

Pre-Order FREAKSHOW #1 Today!

2010-10-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

The solicitation info for FREAKSHOW #1 is now online! Check out our digital solicitation at Comics Continuum.

Want to make sure you can get your copy when the book launches in January? In order to get your local comic shop to order FREAKSHOW, ask for the book by name at your store and provide your retailer with our Diamond PREVIEWS order code, NOV100708. We're in this month's PREVIEWS catalogue (pictured below) in the Ape Entertainment section.

We need readers like you to request the book in order to ensure it reaches an audience, so make your voices heard and request FREAKSHOW today! Thanks for your support!

FREAKSHOW Shout-Out on Comic Related!

2010-10-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

The FREAKSHOW train is picking up speed as we prepare the book to hit stores in January and there's no sign of things slowing down anytime soon! Ape Entertainment co-owner Brent Erwin was recently interviewed on the Comic Related podcast, and one of you e-mailed in to ask for the latest news on FREAKSHOW. Thanks for the support! Click here to hear the full interview, including the latest updates on everything else in the ever-growing Ape Entertainment line-up.

In other news, look for issue #1 in this month's PREVIEWS catalogue - and don't forget to ask your local retailer to order YOUR copies! Keep an eye out for our digital solicitation here on the blog shortly, plus a special Halloween treat next week...

FREAKSHOW OVERTURE by Jay Vincent

2010-07-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

The Con is done and the FREAKSHOW #1 is in the hands of the die-hard fans, but there's one cool piece of content we haven't gotten to share yet. And it's not a pin-up, or a short story, or a cool behind-the-scenes glimpse. No, this is something new.

This is the FREAKSHOW OVERTURE.

Composed by the insanely talented Jay Vincent, this incredible piece of music moves from a bombastic Freakshow theme into a softer, Critter-centric suite, before returning to its roots in heroic fashion. It's intense, beautiful, and truly evocative of the story and emotion that has embodied Freakshow from the beginning. We're truly flattered by the amazing work done by everyone involved, and we're very excited to finally show it off. This'll be adorning the website in the months to come, and we might even be cutting a cool motion comic trailer for the book if you demand it!

So go ahead and take a listen! And if you like, make sure others take a listen too! (But not on Internet Explorer, sorry - this code only works for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox. We're working on it.)

For more excellent music by Mr. Vincent, check out his website.

FREAKSHOW: Comic-Con Wrap-Up

2010-07-26T00:13:00.000-07:00

That's a wrap, folks! The San Diego Comic-Con is officially over - and that means we've put the lid back on FREAKSHOW Issue 1 until its official release next year. The printed book was even more beautiful than we'd imagined, and we couldn't be happier with the response on the Con floor. It was an outstanding and exhilarating five days of spreading the word on FREAKSHOW - and we'd like to thank everyone who came by the booth and picked up an advance copy of Issue 1!

With that in mind, we'd love to hear what you thought of the book! What did you dig? What did you want more of? Who's your favorite character? What, if anything, did you dislike? Your feedback is key to our process as creators, so please leave a comment below or write us directly at freakshowcomic@gmail.com.

Thanks again to everyone who came out, every professional who took the book while we did our rounds, and every single fan who has supported us along the way. This is just the beginning!

PROTOSEVICH talks FREAKSHOW!

2010-07-21T01:19:00.000-07:00

When it rains, it pours! In a quote recently added to yesterday's VARIETY story, FREAKSHOW's newly appointed movie mastermind Mark Protosevich (I AM LEGEND, THOR) has some glowing things to say about the book, and we're honored!

"In terms of experiencing moments of creative inspiration, reading 'Freakshow' was like being struck by lightning," Protosevich said. "Weird, exciting, unsettling lightning. David and Jack created a rich, emotional superhero story, but one that's infused with elements of science fiction, post-apocalyptic action, and horror. For me, an irresistible combination. Plus, Joe's artwork is absolutely stunning. I knew instantly that it had to be a movie, but more than that, I knew I wanted to be the one who makes it."

Wow! Thanks a million, Mark!

Freakshow Movie Adaptation Coming from Mark Protosevich!

2010-07-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

Leading into our San Diego launch, we've got some AMAZING news to share! Mark Protosevich, the brilliant writer behind I AM LEGEND and Marvel Studios' upcoming blockbuster THOR, is attached to write and possibly direct a feature film adaptation of FREAKSHOW!

From VARIETY:

GODS AND MONSTERS FOR PROTOSEVICH

Mark Protosevich, who brought the Norse god Thor to life for Marvel Studios, will make "Freakshow" his next comicbook adaptation, and is eyeing the property as a potential directing vehicle.

The scribe has paired with Sheldon Turner and Jennifer Klein to produce the project. He will pen the script based on the upcoming book that David Server and Jackson Lanzing created, with art from Joe Suitor, an illustrator at Marvel Comics.

The property, which independent imprint Ape Entertainment will publish as a three-issue miniseries in January, revolves around five young protagonists who are turned into mutants by a cataclysmic chemical explosion and must decide whether to use their newfound powers to save the city or exact revenge on those responsible after the world's only superhero is killed.

Title will be promoted by Ape at this week's Comic-Con confab in San Diego, where advance issues of the book will be sold.

Because the book is self-published, its creators were able to set up the film rights on their own. Move is becoming more common when it comes to comicbooks, given how they're increasingly used to set up movies and TV shows, rather than stand alone as major revenue generators.

Klein was introduced to the book by Server, who had worked as an intern at her production shingle Apartment 3B Prods.

Klein, who has paired with Turner on a number of projects set up around town, will produce "Freakshow" with Protosevich. Manager Ray Miller will exec produce.

Find the full story at Variety.com! We couldn't be more proud to have this stellar team bringing our characters to the screen. And don't forget to stop by the Ape Entertainment booth this weekend if you want a sneak peek at issue #1. See you at the con!

APE ENTERTAINMENT TO PREVIEW FREAKSHOW #1 at SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON!

2010-07-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Ape Entertainment announced today that it will provide attendees at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con with an advance look at FREAKSHOW, a new title co-created by David Server & Jackson Lanzing with art by rising star Joe Suitor (Spider-Man: Fear Itself, GI Joe: Helix).

The three-issue limited series follows the story of five mutated survivors after a devastating chemical explosion, which has left the world’s only superhero dead and his city trapped in a dangerous and mysterious quarantine. In the wake of the disaster, these five refugees must decide whether to use their powerful but defective new abilities to save the remains of the city or extract their revenge on those responsible.

“As readers, we’ve always gravitated towards the creatures and outsiders in comics, and this story comes from wanting to deconstruct those archetypes,” says Server. “When you’re born out of the most nightmarish origin you can imagine, where does that leave you? If your identity is ripped away and you’re left a monster, what might anyone be capable of?”

“While we're playing with the iconography of superheroes, our characters aren't traditionally ‘super-heroic,’” adds Lanzing. “They're freaks, survivors of literally apocalyptic trauma. What we're trying to do is let the reader into the mind of these damaged characters and challenge their expectations. FREAKSHOW is about finding heroism in yourself, even when it seems like there's nothing left to save.”

Though the series won’t arrive in stores until early 2011, advance copies of FREAKSHOW #1 will be available for purchase at the Ape Entertainment booth (#2104) on the convention floor. The issue features a cover by Suitor, as well as a special variant cover by comic industry legend Darick Robertson (Transmetropolitan, The Boys).

That's right, folks - FREAKSHOW is going to Comic-Con! And we couldn't possibly be more excited. If you'll be at the show, drop by the booth and pick up your copy. The whole FREAKSHOW team will be around to sign and chat throughout the convention.

Freakshow Hits Facebook

2010-07-12T23:48:00.000-07:00

Hey! Want to be up-to-date on everything FREAKSHOW? You should join the hundreds of people who have become fans of FREAKSHOW on Facebook! That's right: you can officially "like" our little comic, and gain access to our exclusive fanpage content - including a whole host of exciting art and production updates too small or urgent to put up here on the blog. It's a great way to keep in touch and spread the word, so we hope you'll click over to www.facebook.com/freakshowcomic and become a fan.

And for a little taste of what's been happening on the fanpage lately, here's an exclusive piece of concept art by the uber-talented Jorge Lacera (BIOSHOCK). This is just a study for his final art, but we admired it so much that we had to share it with the world. Hope you enjoy it as well - click over to http://lacera.blogspot.com/ for more art goodness.

San Diego Comic-Con approaches, and so do some exciting FREAKSHOW announcements. Stay tuned!

Variant Cover by Tomm Coker

2010-03-04T16:34:00.000-08:00

Hey again!

It's been a little while since our last update, but the book is coming together beautifully and we wanted to share a little something special with you guys to thank you for your continued support. We just recieved our first variant cover (one of several which will be revealed down the line), a fantastic shot of Fog by Tomm Coker (DAREDEVIL NOIR, AGENTS OF ATLAS)! So many thanks to Tomm for this gorgeous and haunting image - we're proud and excited to see his work join the ever-growing FREAKSHOW universe.

As always, more updates coming soon!

-The Freakshow Team

San Diego Comic-Con 2009 Teaser

2009-11-07T18:28:00.001-08:00

Hey guys-

While we continue work on the book, here's a look at the teaser image we distributed at this year's 2009 San Diego Comic-Con. And keep an eye out for artist Joe Suitor's work in Marvel Comics' MARVEL ZOMBIES: EVIL EVOLUTION, available in stores now!

More on the way!

-The Freakshow Team

Free Comic Book Day '09!

2009-05-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!

If you're just visiting our blog for the first time, you're probably here because of the recent ad from Ape Entertainment's Free Comic Book Day 2009 offering, CARTOONAPALOOZA #2! We were excited to have our very first ad alongside some other great Ape Entertainment books.

We look forward to ramping up as we get closer to the book's release at the end of the year, but for now here's a digital copy of our new ad, which was also one of the very first team shots by our artist, Joe Suitor! You may have seen Joe's work in the recently released SPIDER-MAN: FEAR ITSELF, and be sure to keep an eye out for his upcoming SPIDER-MAN FAMILY cover, as well as MARVEL APES: GRUNTLINE SPECIAL #1, and IDW's GI JOE: HELIX!

If you like what you see here so far, leave comments below, and let us know what YOU want to see on this blog! More FREAKSHOW updates to come soon!

-The Freakshow Team

Welcome to Freakshow!

2008-07-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

What if a freak chemical accident changed you, but didn’t leave you with idyllic superpowers? What if instead, you were left monstrous and defective, something simultaneously more and less than human? Would you use your abilities to help others…or to seek revenge against those responsible?

Welcome to FREAKSHOW, the debut comic book from writers David Server and Jackson Lanzing, with art by rising star Joe Suitor! Issue #1 will be coming to a comic shop near you in early 2009 from APE ENTERTAINMENT, but we’ll be updating this production blog with information, teases, and the occasional look inside our creative process between now and then.

We’re hard at work behind-the-scenes at the moment, but hopefully some of you were directed here via our San Diego Comic-Con limited edition mini-posters from the Ape booth, now available here on the blog. Click any of the images for your first peek at the cast of the series, STRONGHOLD, ROT, PSYCHOSIS, FOG, and CRITTER. And keep it here for more updates soon!

-The Freakshow Team

Freakshow Teaser Images

2008-07-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

In 2009...

2008-02-10T00:40:00.000-08:00

... FreakShow is coming.