The Blurb

The FIRST Bacolod Comics Convention!

2012-02-22T17:43:00.002+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

David Finch in MANILA!

2012-02-16T08:49:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Get a Chance to WIN a Superior iPad

2012-02-11T20:04:00.001+08:00

Click to enlarge.

By having your copy of Superior reserved, National Bookstore gives you the chance to win an iPad with an original sketch by Leinil Francis Yu drawn on the actual gadget, truly a one of a kind item.

Superior is the creator owned comic book project written by Mark Millar, pencilled by Leinil Francis Yu, and inked by Gerry Alanguilan.

Here's how this works:

Click to enlarge.

1. For every reservation made of Superior by Mark Millar and Leinil Yu from February 7 – February 29, 2012 in any participating National Book Store and Powerbooks branch, a customer is entitled to two (2) raffle coupons to qualify for the raffle draw to win one (1) Apple iPad 64GB with an original sketch by Leinil Yu. A downpayment of P200.00 is required for a valid reservation of Superior (Retail Price: P1,175.00).Then from March 1 to 31, 2012, customers who’ll purchase Superior in any participating National Book Store and Powerbooks branch will be entitled to one (1) raffle coupon.

2. Starting March 1, customers may claim their book reservation and two (2) raffle coupons upon payment of the P975.00 balance for the full purchase.

3. Deadline of submission of entries will be at store closing on March 31, 2012.

4. The customer must fill out the raffle coupon with their complete name, address, telephone number, cellphone number, e-mail address and affix signature and drop at drop boxes located at the customer service area.

5. Prize cannot be converted to cash and is non-transferable. The 20% tax of prizes exceeding P10,000 shall be shouldered by the winner.

6. Raffle draw is on April 11, 2012, 5:00 p.m., at the National Book Store Head Office at 125 Quad Alpha Centrum Bldg., Pioneer St., Mandaluyong City in the presence of a DTI representative.

7. National Book Store will be notifying the winner via registered mail that shall also serve as proof of winning. Winner will be announced in National Book Store Facebook and Twitter accounts. Posters announcing the winner will also be displayed at the customer service counter of all participating branches.

8. The winner must (a) present the winning stub, valid ID with photo and the registered mail notification to claim the prize; (b) claim his prize within 60 days upon receipt of the registered mail. Prize not claimed within 60 days from receipt of notice will be forfeited in favor of National Book Store, Inc. with prior approval of DTI; (c) claim the prize at National Book Store Head Office at 125

9. Employees of National Book Store, Inc., and Abacus Books and Card Corp., and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from joining this promo.

For more information, visit the official National Bookstore Facebook Page. Click here.

New Poster for the Bikol Komiks Convention

2012-01-31T13:29:00.002+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

An Interview with Edgar Tadeo

2012-01-31T01:16:00.003+08:00

Click to enlarge.

What is your name?
My real name is not Edgardo Tadeo--it's Edgar Tadeo. Only friends can call me Ed. Relatives in provinces call me Ega or Egay, which nick names I don't like.

How long have you been making comic books?
Professionally it has been 15 years. I've been in love making comics for 24 years. But before that I wanted to be an animator.

Are you a full-time comic book creator or do you have a day job?
Ang tunay na lalake, walang day job. Hehe! Seriously, I'm a free lance comic artist. I create my own comics but most of the time I work for international comic companies.

If you have a day job what is it?
I tried. I don't like traveling to work.

What comic book project are most known for?
Mostly, Marvel X-books--Wolverine title, coz that's the first on-going comic book I ever worked/inked on. Second was Iron Man as a colorist.

How did you discover comic books?
Our neighbor in our old place let me borrow their old locally published komiks. The second time the let me borrow, they gave me old DC and Marvel comics. I got excited coz they were fully colored not like late 80's Pinoy komiks; they were mono-tones.

Ed Tadeo's Jacara Zar.

How did you get started in comic books?
Quite long story. There was a school of comics somewhere in Q.C. where, Whilce Portacio once guested for a speech. Whilce's first secretary lived near the school so we asked for permission to drop by at Whilce's condo to submit some of drawings including mine. Gerry Alanguilan and Roy Allan Martinez was working with Whilce that time so they also looked at my work and asked me to have a try out. Whilce asked me what to try; pencil or ink, so I said INK. Then I did some tryouts over Whilce's pencils and the next week I was working with Roy and Gerry on Grifter #10.

Who are your greatest influences?
When I was borrowing Pinoy komiks, I got familiarized with Jun Lofamia's work. I suddenly got intrigued by Alfredo Alcala's work when I first saw his rendering of Swamp Thing. Then John Totleben's Swamp Thing. Then in the mid-90's I saw Jim Lee's work. Then that changes everything on my drawings. The list went on--Whilce Portacio, Mark Silvestri, Rob Liefeld...almost all of the Image guys, really.

What is the greatest comic book of all time?
Hmmm. That's hard coz I'm a fan of every comics I read. I haven't finished reading Watchmen, Swamp Thing compiled books of Alan Moore. It's like a beauty pageant. Can't say what.

Who is the greatest comic book creator of all time?
Like I said, it's like a beauty pageant. We all have our tastes.

What’s the best thing that can happen to the Filipino comic book industry?
I see no problem with comic biz, big problems are those who don't understand why we are now P30-P60 than a P10 per copy. The best thing that can ever happen is that non-regular readers will start reading komiks again. But who cares if they read or not. They just rather spend their P30 cellphone load than read a comic book, I don't mind.

What’s the worst thing that can happen to the Filipino comic book industry?
The worst thing on some cases just happened. After creating them, sold them to a TV network and disappeared. THAT I just wish will never happen to great creators of our time.

If you weren’t making comic books what would you be doing for a living?
I maybe an animator, coz that was first dream rather than just a painter.

What is the best advice you can give to a comic book creator who is just starting out?
Live the dream.

Zsazsa Zaturnnah SEQUEL!

2012-01-18T20:58:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

The 3rd Bikol Comics Convention

2012-01-16T06:37:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Elmer at the Manila Bulletin

2012-01-08T20:57:00.000+08:00

Click to enlarge.

Gerry's Elmer is featured at the Manila Bulletin.

"While casual comic book fans may be more familiar with Gerry Alanguilan’s work as an inker for such iconic Marvel Comics titles like the “X-Men”, “Wolverine”, and “Fantastic Four”, the veteran comic book writer and artist actually spent the past year being feted for his own original work.

The graphic novel “Elmer”, what Alanguilan refers to as his “ultimate chicken story”, was awarded as the Best Asian Comic published in France at the Prix Asie-ACBD 2011. Aside from that, the work was also nominated for an Eisner Award, the top accolade given to a comic book in the American publishing scene."

Click here to read the entire article.

Zsazsa Zaturnnah Returns!

2012-01-03T06:18:00.003+08:00

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T09:18:00.003+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Jun Lofamia at the Panorama

2011-12-19T07:51:00.000+08:00

Jun Lofamia's artwork graces the cover of Manila Bulletin's Panorama.

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Maging SUPERHERO!

2011-12-18T21:33:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Good News: Bagong Pinoy Superheroes

2011-12-12T10:06:00.000+08:00

SPUTNIK Signing!

2011-12-09T07:48:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Sputnik is located at Shop 60 Cubao Expo (formerly known as the Marikina Shoe Expo) on Gen. Romulo Ave., Cubao, Q.C (near Pure Gold supermarket).

Gerry Alanguilan in ESQUIRE

2011-12-06T20:50:00.001+08:00

Esquire Philippines' December 2011 issue features an interview with Gerry Alanguilan, written by Budjette Tan.

Click on thumbnail for larger image.

Techno Tea Pot

2011-12-06T11:32:00.001+08:00

In association with SPIDERSILK PRODUCTIONS, Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Philippines proudly presents Dear Prudence as The Black Widow in this venomous rendezvous of art, dames, and a tea party for the ages!

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

ADMISSION IS FREE! Click for details here.

The 3rd Bikol Komiks Convention

2011-12-06T11:27:00.000+08:00

Click to enlarge.

The 3rd Bikol Komiks Convention (time and place to be determined still) is putting up a bigger comic book anthology. For interested parties, here are the specifics:

1. In keeping with the 2012 doomsday fever, we shall be adopting the theme "The End Of The World As We Know It (and I feel fine)." I leave it to you to interpret the theme. There is no limitation in genre. Apocalyptic Horror, Romance At The End Of Time, Front Seats To The End Of The World, whatever, et cetera. Let your imagination run wild.

2. Try to limit your contributions to a minimum of five pages and a maximum of 10 pages.

3. Due to printing cost considerations, we recommend that your contributions be in black and white format.

4. Deadline for submission is December 27, 2011. Format for submission is PDF. Submit your works to bikolkomikero(AT)gmail.com

5. We will select the ten best contributions based on the following considerations: (a) story; (b) panelwork; (c) artistic style. There is no restriction in the vernacular/language/dialect of choice. But please take into consideration that we are trying to appeal to a greater readership.

6. All will be notified by January 1, 2012. Please take note that you might be requested to do further touch-ups and proofreading to make sure that your work is print-quality.

Andong Agimat...ANIMATED!

2011-12-05T06:21:00.002+08:00

DC Digital Comics go on SALE!

2011-11-25T10:26:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Click here to go to SALE!

Comic Odyssey Relocation SALE!

2011-11-24T21:41:00.002+08:00

The Comic Odyssey relocation sale is now going on!

Save on the following at all Comic Odyssey branches:

Action figures and statues, 10-50% OFF
Complete comic sets, 20-50% OFF
Premium back issues, 20% OFF
Variant Comics, 40% OFF
All back issues in the bins, Php 50.00 each

But that's not all!

Trade paperbacks, hardcovers, manga promo
Buy 1 get 10% OFF, buy 2 get 15% OFF, buy 3 get 20% OFF, buy 4 get 25% OFF, buy 5 or more and get 30% OFF)

NOTE: Discounts apply to in-stock items only. Special orders/reorders not included. New releases in the past 2 months not included.

Vinyl Splash

2011-11-24T08:38:00.002+08:00

Info at Fully Booked Website
Facebook Events Page

PICCA

2011-11-24T08:37:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

PICCA Official Page

PICCA Facebook Page

Space Ambush at the 3rd San Pablo Comics Festival

2011-11-23T11:39:00.000+08:00

Space Ambush, created by Andrew Villar and cosplayed by Joan Kathleen Manguiat, will be at the The San Pablo City Comics Festival!

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

She'll be hanging around at the KOMIKERO/GLG/CoRe Studios table!

Opening Theme for SUPER

2011-11-23T09:09:00.001+08:00

Bane from The Dark Knight Rises

2011-11-21T06:56:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Zaturnnah sa Maynila Cover

2011-11-21T05:55:00.000+08:00

Carlo Vergara finally reveals the cover to issue 1 of Zaturnnah sa Maynila, the highly anticipated sequel to Ang Kagilagilalas na Pakikipagsapalarang ni Zsazsa Zaturnnah.

"Since a number of people see Zsazsa Zaturnnah as a "classic hero," (thanks so much for saying so) I decided to use that idea for the "Zaturnnah sa Maynila" covers. I took some time to check the visual style of the old comics of the fifties and sixties, and tried to put my little spin on it. This is the cover for Part 1.

- Carlo Vergara"

Click thumbnail for a larger image.

WANTED: Conceptual Artists

2011-11-16T07:26:00.001+08:00

Students from De Lasalle University – Manila majoring in Communication Arts seek help for their thesis that they are currently working on.

Their group chose to create a short film tackling on the fantasy-genre, specifically the "superhero" scene. Through this short film for thesis, they hope to heighten the Pinoy superhero from the pages of a graphic novel to a cinematic level. They want this superhero-film to revolve around superheroes set in the Philippine setting; dealing with and imbibing Filipino social struggles and issues.

They need the help of conceptual artists to help them visualize their main superhero characters and they need help with this: visualize fully their main characters from text to actual illustrations.

Interested artists please email your name, contact details, and links to your portfolio to mikhailbanzon(AT)gmail.com. No attachments please.

Angel Crush debuts at the KOMIKON

2011-11-14T12:55:00.000+08:00

Studio Studio's next series, Angel Crush, will debut at Komikon! Get your copy fresh off the printing press for Php 300.00, Standard Retail Price (SRP) is Php 338.00.

BACOLOD-made Indies coming to the KOMIKON!

2011-11-12T09:09:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

MASO Trailer

2011-11-11T09:03:00.000+08:00

Revel Circle at the KOMIKON

2011-11-10T09:07:00.000+08:00

Buy all titles at the KOMIKON and you get a Limited Edition 11X17 Revel Circle Print for FREE!

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

InkJinks at the KOMIKON

2011-11-10T09:02:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

KOMIKASI's Starstruck at the KOMIKON

2011-11-09T20:24:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Jacara Zar 2 Test Layout

2011-11-09T19:12:00.000+08:00

The wrap-around gate fold cover layout test for Edgar Tadeo's Jacara Zar #2.

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

JUSTICE on your Feet

2011-11-09T08:12:00.001+08:00

Saw these while walking through the SM Department store in Fairview.

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Of the four characters in the illustration Superman, Batman, and Green Lantern has a movie franchise. Is this a subtle hint from the folks at DC Comics that The Flash is up next?

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

I love Batman but if it's going to be on my feet it has to be The Flash tsinelas!

WIN TICKETS TO THE KOMIKON 2011!

2011-11-08T11:21:00.000+08:00

Mechanics

1. Go to KOMIKON 2011 tab and submit your entry by providing the following details:
(a) Name
(b) Email Address
(c) City of Residence
(d) Answer to the question: Who is your favorite local comic book character?
Only one entry per participant will be accepted via the Contest tab.

2. For better chances of winning, you can submit another entry by tweeting your answer in Twitter using the following format: ANSWER(space)#NBScontest(space)@NBSalert

3. WIN TICKETS TO THE KOMIKON 2011 will run until November 15, 2011.

4. Ten (10) lucky winners will each get two (2) entrance tickets to the 7th Philippine Annual Komiks Convention: Komikon 2011.

5. The winners will be informed on November 16, 2011 via email containing instructions on how to claim the prize.

What: The 7th Philippine Annual Komiks Convention: Komikon 2011.
When: November 19, 2011 from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Venue: Bayanihan Center, Pasig City

KOMIKON or Philippine Komiks Convention aims to bring together different comic book artists/groups and publishers in a venue where they could present their talents, works and services to the public and, most importantly, to aspiring comic artists. This yearly convention would like to bring in different art groups and different generations of artists for a free exchange of ideas, break down stereotypes, and broaden the scope of comics – from international to local, sequential to strips, professional to amateur, and published to independent comics. We would also like to bring to people’s awareness the current state of the Philippine comics industry.

Most importantly, the event focuses on Filipino comics, made by Filipino comic creators, whether published independently, or through a publisher, using various styles of drawing encompassing numerous genres. Though relatively young compared to the more established comics conventions abroad, Komikon is still in its early learning stages and through the support of all the participants, exhibitors and sponsors, Komikon will definitely grow a lot bigger.

How BATMAN found his VOICE

2011-11-08T09:01:00.000+08:00

See all the CollegeHumor Original Videos here.

Inkwell Auctions

2011-11-07T06:42:00.002+08:00

From Bob Almond...

Take a gander at the latest Inkwell Awards fundraising auctions on eBay with original art, signed prints, sketchcards, etc. by the likes of Cully Hamner, Derec Donavan, Larry Latham, Jon Hughes, Rebecca Buchman, John Tyler Christopher, and more!

Click here!

Jacara Zar at the KOMIKON

2011-11-06T15:38:00.000+08:00

Another reason to go to the KOMIKON this November 19, 2011 Saturday.

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Gerry Signing

2011-11-01T16:04:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image. Click here for Google map.

Stephen Segovia Signing at Comic Odyssey

2011-10-31T18:37:00.000+08:00

Folded and Hung + MARVEL = AWESOME

2011-10-31T18:12:00.000+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

New Comics

2011-10-31T17:26:00.001+08:00

New comics I scored at the local BookSale the other day!

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Free Shipping ANYWHERE in the PHILIPPINES!

2011-10-25T22:03:00.001+08:00

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

ELMER in National Bookstore

2011-10-22T20:59:00.001+08:00

Gerry Alanguilan's ELMER is already available in National Bookstore making it widely available, a boon to those who have been trying to score a copy to sometime now but was unable to.

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

What's even better is that you get a chance to win an iPad with an original Elmer sketch by Gerry at the back!

Click on thumbnail for a larger image.

Get a copy now!

BookSale Comics

2011-10-14T17:30:00.002+08:00

Something I scored from the local BookSale earlier today!

Click on thumbnail for a bigger image.

ELMER Launch Video by Gerry Alanguilan

2011-10-14T13:13:00.000+08:00

ELMER Surprise Tomorrow!

2011-10-14T08:42:00.000+08:00

National Book Store will have a surprise for people attending the launch of ELMER 2nd Edition tomorrow, October 15, 2011 Saturday at National Book Store’s Bestsellers, 4th Floor Robinson’s Galleria in Ortigas at 5:00 PM.

"National Book Store will be raffling off 10 Elmer prints and 10 Elmer T-shirts, and will also be offering a 20% discount on their imported graphic novels. Yeah, there’s also a surprise thing going on for attendees of the event, specially those who will buy the book. NBS hasn’t announced it yet, so I’m keeping mum, but it’s HUGE."

Click here for more information and yes, Gerry will be on site to sign your books, get pics taken, and make funny faces.

The Official AVENGERS Trailer

2011-10-12T07:02:00.001+08:00

In theaters May 4, 2012...and I can hardly wait!

The X-Men Regenesis Launch Party

2011-10-10T11:17:00.000+08:00

In the wake of the recently concluded, moral- defining and team- separating X-Men story, "X-Men: Schism", Comicx Hub, invites you to be part of yet another momentous event as we hold the grand launch of "X-MEN: Regenesis".

A gathering to celebrate the new lives of our favorite mutant family, hosted by the biggest online store in the country dedicated to Comics, Toys & Collectibles! This launch party will be on October 12, 2011 from noon 'til midnight! Get to meet fellow comic enthusiasts as exclusive discounts on the newly released comic issues will be available!

Get up to 50% off on all X-Men Trade Paperbacks and Hard Covers! All X-Men and X-Men related compilations in paperback and hardcover are on sale for up to 50% off! Have your collections complete as we even have "X-MEN: PRELUDE TO SCHISM" for only Php500.00! Lucky ones will get the chance to win a variant edition of X-Men Regenesis #1! All purchases within the day qualifies for the raffle draw at the end of the night for a chance to get a varant edition cover of "X-MEN: REGENESIS #1"

Plus, witness the launch of Comicx Hub's newest service: "In-Store Pick up" where everyone can get their new releases picked up from our warehouse every Tuesday afternoon at an exclusive 20% off until Friday, every week!

Drinks and Snacks will be served. All attendees automatically get 50 REWARDS POINTS credited to their accounts, to use when purchasing online. Be there and join the celebration!

COMICX HUB
3F Bloomingdale Plaza Bldg., Shaw Blvd., Pasig City, 1603
T+632 477 8508, F+632 477 8583
help(AT)comicxhub.com

ELMER Promotional Poster by National Bookstore

2011-10-09T17:40:00.002+08:00

GTMACCON 2011 Indie Seller List

2011-10-08T10:06:00.002+08:00

ELMER Book Launching

2011-10-08T08:18:00.000+08:00

ELMER 2nd Edition will be launched this coming Saturday, October 15, 2011 at Bestsellers, 4th Floor Robinson's Galleria, Ortigas at 5:00 PM. Gerry will be there to sign copies!

Click here for more details.

ELMER Strikes Again!

2011-10-07T08:18:00.002+08:00

Gerry Alanguilan's Elmer, that is.

After winning at the Prix Asie-ACBD 2011 (read more about it here), Gerry's yarn about a world human share with chickens who one day miraculously gain sentience is once again competing for best comic book of the year by not one, but two prestigious French festivals taking place later this year.

They are the Quai des Bulles which is a comic book festival and Les Utopiales which is a Sci-Fi and Fantasy Festival with a comic book category.

Break a leg, Gerry!

Trese 4: Seen After Midnight PREVIEW

2011-10-05T13:01:00.000+08:00

Join Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo for the Trese 4: Last Seen After Midnight book launch this Saturday October 8, 2011, at 5:00 PM at the NBS Best Seller’s, 4th Floor of Robinsons Galleria.

Check out the video below by Budjette Tan giving us a sneak peek at the goodies.

SUPER

2011-10-05T12:34:00.000+08:00

How could I have missed this one!?

KOMIKON 2011

2011-10-04T09:42:00.000+08:00

The 7th Annual Philippine Komiks Convention, Bayanihan: Komiks Moving Onwards will be held this coming November 19, 2011 Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Bayanihan Center, Pasig City.

Click here for directions in getting to the venue.

Click on the thumbnail for a bigger image.

Kitakits!

Manila Man VS Malolos Man Development

2011-10-02T10:53:00.001+08:00

Some weeks ago (September 2, 2011 to be exact) I published an article here detailing Filipino comic book creator RH Quilantang's (a member of the Bayan Knights) call to publicize the attempt to steal his Manila Man character by rapper/writer Clarance Boddyker.

Click here to read the post.

The attempt includes a pitch for a Malolos Man live action film to Philippines acting legend and movie star Cesar Montano who was reputedly attached to produce, direct, and star in the movie based on the comic.

Cliff Mendoza, Cesar Montano's cousin, got wind apparently regarding this issue and brought it to the attention of Cesar himself.

"I'm Cliff Mendoza cousin to Cesar Montano. I was alarmed when I saw this web site. So I decided to talked to Cesar personally regarding Malolos Man. And I showed him the site. He was shocked upon learning this current issue. He said he is far from making this movie. It takes a lot of works regarding legal matters. Yes, he said, Malolos Man was offered to him few months back through email by a certain guy named Allen Francis. Apparently a writer from New York, whom he never met. Cesar was asked to act or probably direct the movie (Malolos Man). My cousin was honored and politely said to Allen, that this is a very interesting and powerful story but who's gonna produce it? Or Who's gonna invest on it? According to my cousin,Allen the writer has to gather funding first to convince Cesar that they're really serious to make this movie. It was very clear Cesar continued that he is not going to invest his own money but as of today Allen hasn't emailed back to my cousin yet. That's crystal clear."

It's great to know that the issue has reached the attention of Cesar Montano via his cousin (thanks, Cliff).

Catch The Flash!

2011-09-27T14:42:00.002+08:00

Getting Ready for CEBU

2011-09-25T16:21:00.002+08:00

Almost ready for the Cebu Comics Convention. See you guys there!

Click on the thumbnail for a larger image.

Francis Manapul Appearance at Stadium Comics

2011-09-24T08:16:00.001+08:00

“The Flash” artist and writer Francis Manapul will be appearing at Stadium Comics on this coming Wednesday September 28th, 2011 to celebrate the release of “The Flash” issue #1 which is a part of DC Comics’ New 52 relaunch!

Flash #1 goes on sale at 10:00 AM and Francis will be on hand to sign the book for fans from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to have the landmark #1 issue signed by one of the books creators, who just happens to be one of the most popular artists in the industry!

"Francis Manapul is a Toronto-based comic artist currently working for DC Comics. His credits include The Flash, Adventure Comics, Superman/Batman, Legion of Superheroes, Witchblade, and Iron and the Maiden. Francis was also one of the presenters on the TV Series Beast Legends, which aired on History Television and the SyFy network."

Stadium Comics will also have a sale on all Trade Paperbacks and Hardcovers for 20% off the regular price! The Stadium Comics is located at 499 Main St. South (Shoppers World Mall) at Brampton, Ontario.

Sign up at the Facebook page here.

Social Media and SUPERHEROES

2011-09-22T22:26:00.000+08:00

Poor Robin (though Bats does have a point)!

Neil Gaiman's Talk in GOOGLE

2011-09-08T22:40:00.003+08:00

ALAN MOORE'S Advice to ARTISTS

2011-09-08T22:39:00.000+08:00

Sage advice from one of the titans of comic books, Alan Moore.

BEST Customer Support EVER!

2011-09-07T22:32:00.001+08:00

Don't you wish customer support had something like this? Many of you guys out there wouldn't mind being put on hold at all, I'm sure.

Click on the thumbnail for a larger image.

Oil Portrait Tutorial

2011-09-07T22:25:00.000+08:00

Indie Comics Production Cost Guide

2011-09-07T22:22:00.001+08:00

A useful guide for those planning on producing their own indie comic books.

Click on the thumbnail for the full-size image.

BLADE Parody

2011-09-07T21:58:00.000+08:00

I am a big fan of the Blade movie franchise (not too terribly excited about the third installment though...which sucked big time) so I guess it was inevitable that I was going to do a short comic parody of it sooner or later.

This 2-page comic was originally made for Mwahaha published by Mango Comics. Read it after the jump!

Click on the image for a larger version.

GEEK TRAGEDIES: The Meet and Greet

2011-09-07T08:14:00.001+08:00

Check out Carljoe Javier, Josel Nicolas, and Adam David peddling their brand of comic book goodness and other pop artsy wares at affordable prices this coming Friday 6:00 PM -12:00 MN at the Sputnik Fantastik in Cubao Shoe Expo.

This is your chance to have your stuff signed to boot so don't miss it!

While you're at it, check out the fantastic collection of graphic novels, toys, and other wonderful thingamajigs that Sputnik has in their shelves. Some of these stuff can only be found there, I think.

Sputnik is located at Shop 60 Cubao Expo Gen Romulo Ave. Cubao, Quezon City.

Can Dr. Sketchy cure your ART Block?

2011-09-07T08:05:00.001+08:00

I was in the middle of Greenbelt 3’s park together with other artists toting our pencils and sketchpads. Sprawled on some stone benches were three sexy nurses (I don’t think they were really nurses though) in various poses and states of undress.

Welcome to a life drawing session courtesy of Dr. Sketchy!

What (or who) is Dr. Sketchy?

“Dr. Sketchy’s was founded in December 2005 by an illustrator and former artist’s model by the stage name Molly Crabapple. When artists think of “life drawing,” they think of sterile rooms, bad lighting, and bored, silent, models with nary a hint of personality. This is why Molly started Dr. Sketchy’s - on the basis of fair pay for models and boozy, decadent fun for all”.

This is NOT your daddy’s art school, ladies and gents.

“We want to break these pre-conceived notions people have about art, nudity and the human form, burlesque, cabaret, performance art, tattoos, piercings, and everything that is a part of self-expression and individuality. We want to bring out appreciation of the Filipino gift”.

Sounds like your particular brand of vodka (yes, we drink while drawing)? Check out where the next session is going to be. Click here.

Tara na and bring your pencils and sketchbooks!

TRAILER: The Avengers

2011-09-06T08:43:00.000+08:00

This is actually a fan-made trailer but it's way better than the teaser they showed right after the credits rolled in the movie, Captain America: The First Avenger.

The Dark Knight Rises Trailer

2011-09-06T08:36:00.000+08:00

One word: EPIC!

Pocket Comics and Komikero Komiks in SPUTNIK

2011-09-06T08:11:00.000+08:00

Pocket Comics no.1 and Komikero Komiks no.7 are now both available in SPUTNIK located at Shop 60 Cubao Expo (formerly known as the Marikina Shoe Expo) on Gen. Romulo Ave., Cubao, Quezon City.

Pocket Comics is priced at Php 100.00 and Komikero Komiks goes for Php 70.00. Get your copy now!

Come to the GTMACCON!

2011-09-05T09:40:00.003+08:00

The GTMACCON is happening this coming October 22, 2011 Saturday 12:30 PM at the SM San Lazaro Activity area.

It's a cosplay event which features local and original comic book characters so it's an event definitely not to be missed. For more details check out the poster below.

Click on the thumbnail for a larger image.

LOLA: A Ghost Story Production Process

2011-09-05T09:34:00.006+08:00

LOLA: A Ghost Story, written by J. Torres and pencilled by Elbert Or, is currently now available in hardcover from Sputnik Comics, Druid’s Keep, Comic Odyssey, Planet X and Fully Booked.

I did some inks here and there for the book and Neil Amiel Cervantes and Katrina Mae Hao did some of the grayscale (some of Elbert’s students took some of the pages in an effort to meet the deadline). It was certainly an interesting project and a delight to help illuminate J. Torres’s story, especially one such as this that highlight Philippine culture and belief systems and spins it into one entertaining yarn.

I hope that we see more of these kinds of stories in the future.

There have been a lot of kind words online on the book and the illustration. We’d like to say thank you by giving you guys out there a sneak peek into how a LOLA page gets produced.

Let’s begin!

The Pencils

Elbert typically sends the pencils to me online in a 300 dpi, PSD format file.

Click for a larger image.

I prefer to ink via traditional methods so the first order of the day is to convert Elbert’s lines into blue.

Click for a larger image.

I do this to allow me to erase the blue lines digitally in Photoshop later, after I’ve inked over it. This blue line version will now be printed out on a specialty board I buy that I used specifically for inking works.

With Elbert’s pencils I don’t go immediately to inks.

I spend some time figuring out the intent for a particular page via a script I was provided with. After that I spend some time with a blue Prismacolor pencil adding elements which I feel will help in the storytelling, add shadows to help push create the mood and ambience the scene needs, and correct some details in the art.

It is only after accomplishing this that I start inking over the blue lines.

The Inks

Most people probably think of inkers as tracers, content to follow the penciller’s lines and not figuring prominently in the art process. It’s a common misconception by people not familiar with the comic book production process. A bad inker can easily ruin great pencils so it is always in the best interest of an art team to get a good inker.

I use different tools for different inking projects.

In the case of LOLA, I used a Sakura brush, Chinese ink, Prismacolor blue pencils, UNI Pin technical pens of varying points, a felt tip pen, and a bunch of rulers, French curves, erasers, and a bottle of correction fluid (an inker’s best friend).

The finished product looks a bit something like this.

Click for a larger image.

At this point, I turn over the page to Neil Amiel Cervantes or Katrina Mae Hao for scanning and cleanup.

They begin by taking out the blue lines, taking out the smudges and dirt found all over the page, and making sure that the white are crisp and the blacks…well, black. They check with me on the cleaned up line art and I go over it to see if we missed anything.

Click for a larger image.

Once that’s done, I give them the go signal to start the grayscaling process.

The Grayscale

The original mandate for the book was to produce it in grayscale.

It was only when promotions and solicitations for the graphic novel came out did I find out that it was converted into sepia. Consequently, some of the intended effects that were clear on grayscale were lost in sepia mode but I’m hoping the readers would still like it nevertheless.

Click for a larger image.

The Neil and Mae Hao used a combination of cell-shading and airbrushing techniques to great effect.

After adding grayscale, we go over the page again for a final check and then we e-mail it back to Elbert who will send it to ONI Press for lettering and whatever else that needs to be added.

Overview

Click on the image below to see the entire process.

Click for a larger image.

LOLA: A Ghost Story

Story by J. Torres
Pencils by Elbert Or
Inks by Jonas Diego and Elbert Or (with assists from some of Elbert's students)
Grayscale by Neil Amiel Cervantes and Katrina Mae Hao

Go buy our book now!

The Poor Man’s Copyright

2011-09-05T08:50:00.002+08:00

Many years ago, Gerry Alanguilan showed me a simple way to copyright your works. It’s called the poor man’s copyright.

Basically, the poor man's copyright “is a method of using registered dating by the postal service, a notary public or other highly trusted source to date intellectual property, thereby helping to establish that the material has been in one's possession since a particular time”. Should a dispute occur, such as someone attempting to claim ownership of your work or infringe on your copyright, the poor man’s copyright would at least “establish a legally recognized date of possession before any proof which a third party may possess”.

This is how you do it:

1. Put your materials (script, drawings, notes, etc.) in an envelope and seal it.
2. Register mail it to yourself and keep your copy of the receipt and the shipping order.
3. Once you receive the package that you sent to yourself, DO NOT OPEN IT!
4. Along with the receipt and shipping order, store your registered mail somewhere safe and secure.

That being said however, the poor man’s copyright is just a first aid response to protecting your ideas and yourself from those who would otherwise try to take advantage of you.

It is not a substitute for proper copyright registration.

FIGHT for your RIGHT as an ARTIST!

2011-09-05T08:50:00.001+08:00

Gerry Alanguilan discusses R.A. 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code which adequately covers the general concerns of the comic book professional in his blog back in 2005. As a comic book creator, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or an aspiring rookie, you should make it a point to familiarize yourself with your rights.

You can download R.A. 8293 from the following links:

PDF Format
Text Format

You can read Gerry’s article about R.A. 8293 here.

Wally Wood's 22 Panels that ALWAYS Work

2011-09-03T22:12:00.007+08:00

I got the following image from Joel Johnson's site. Click here.

Click on the thumbnail for a bigger image.

Break the Law, Lose his Temper...SUPERMAN!?

2011-09-03T06:10:00.000+08:00

I’m not sure I like the new Superman, not because he doesn’t have his array of wonderful powers (though I’ll miss them now that they’re not all there).

“Plus, this new Superman can't fly yet — leaping buildings instead — and he can bleed.”

I have misgivings about his current portrayal given the recent DC Comic reboot of their flagship characters.

“…this new Superman fights with criminals, but he sometimes battles the police and the government. "If anyone in the world's been bullied, then Superman exists to take out the bully, no matter how big or smart or armed that bully might be," he said.”

Don’t we have Batman for that?

Click here for the entire article over at Newsarama.

AVENGERS in New York

2011-09-03T05:50:00.000+08:00

The cast of the upcoming AVENGERS movie was recently spotted in New York's Central Park, shooting a scene from the upcoming blockbuster movie no doubt.

Click here for more photos!

New York Celebrates SPIDER-MAN Week!

2011-09-03T05:36:00.002+08:00

Check out the Spider-Man Week in NYC festivities at Sony Plaza. From kids making stop-motion animations, watching movie trailers and playing games at the Sony Wonder Technology Lab to awesome Spider-Man displays, it was awesome.

Manila Man VS Malolos Man

2011-09-02T23:39:00.005+08:00

RH Quilantang's Manila Man.

Filipino comic book creator RH Quilantang, a member of the Bayan Knights roster, recently publicized an attempt to steal his Manila Man character by Rapper/Writer Clarance Boddyker. Read RH Quilantang’s personal account of the issue here.

According to RH, Boddyker first got in touch with him back in 2008 through DevART expressing his desire to write a Manila Man story which he turned down.

Fast forward to 2011, Boddyker announces plans to launch August Comics (his own digital and print-on-demand comic book company). August Comics' first comic book will be a 4-issue, black and white, 20 pages per issue, Filipino-centric martial arts action comic called Malolos Man. The press release goes on further to state that “a Malolos Man live action film is being optioned right now. Philippines acting legend and movie star Cesar Montano is attached to produce, direct and star in a Malolos Man film based on this comic”. The comic apparently will be published and distributed through Blackline Comics (http://www.blacklinecomics.com/).

Malolos Man breakdown page.

RH goes on to state that the character that Boddyker created (Malolos Man) also wears a blindfold and has a grandfather mentor. Pictured on the right is a breakdown of a comic book page from Boddyker’s site.

Being an artist myself, I can understand RH’s distress especially at the prospect of someone else making a buck out of his original work. I do not know if Mr. Cesar Montano is aware of the issues surrounding this property which he is supposedly involved in. Furthermore, I also do not know if Blackline Comics is also in the know about this entire hullabaloo.

I do know however that I wouldn’t want to be involved with such a character as Clarance Boddyker.

Related Posts
Gerry Alanguilan

The BIG Night!

2011-09-02T22:28:00.002+08:00

Following is a six-page comic book story that I contributed to the Komikero Komiks Anthology. It's a bit raunchy (i.e., might not be safe for work) however but hope it gives you a chuckle or two.

Read it after the jump. Enjoy!

WACOM's Inkling

2011-09-02T10:22:00.001+08:00

I know it sounds like something of a bad horror B-movie but it's not. In fact it just might be one of the best things that came along for artists who still prefers the touch and feel of real pen and paper.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present the WACOM Inkling!

From the video however, it looks like it's only practical for small scale drawings. I wonder how it would fare for works on 11 inches X 17 inches boards, the type most comic book pros use? There is no doubt though that it's a cool gadget for artists and creatives and now that the technology is here, development for another version that can handle large formats is probably not that far behind.

Visit their official site here.

Young Justice

2011-09-01T21:27:00.000+08:00

What can I say except that the first episode of Young Justice is simply awesome!

"Young Justice is an American animated television series created by Greg Weisman and Brandon Vietti for Cartoon Network. Despite its title, it is not an adaptation of Todd Dezago and Todd Nauck's Young Justice comic series, but rather an adaptation of the entire DC Universe with a focus on young superheroes."

I caught on late to this show but I am now making up for lost time.

Jon Zamar's CODENAME: Bathala

2011-09-01T06:46:00.002+08:00

Click for a bigger image.

Codename: Bathala is a comicbook superhero written by Jon Zamar and drawn by Judd Abinuman and it's mightly fine looking comic book indeed.

Codename: Bathala also appears in the superhero mega group Bayan Knights as part of Taskforce Tron IX.

The comics chronicles Captain Michael Divinahustisya's adventures as the armored superhero, Bathala.

Codename: Bathala is a Komikon Awards nominee.

Check out and LIKE the Facebook page here.

Dr. Sketchy presents BOUND featuring KATHERINE LI and SHINOBI

2011-09-01T00:25:00.014+08:00

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Manila presents BOUND featuring Katherine Li and Nawashi Sesei, SHINOBI this coming September 22, 2011 8:00 PM Thursday at the Amber Ultra Lounge (tentative venue, awaiting confirmation).

Click for a larger image.

RSVP NOW! Click here.

Model Photographed by Daniel Tan.
Shibari (Rope Art) by John Smith aka SHINOBI.

NEW Pictures from the SUPERMAN Movie

2011-08-31T23:10:00.001+08:00

Original still shot.

New pictures has been captured from the Illinois set of the Man of Steel, the new Superman movie and its star, Henry Cavill, actually looks a bit like Superman compared to the first original still shot, at least in my eyes.

I've always thought he looked "evil" (for lack of a better term) in the still.

However, we see more details in the current batch of photographs and Henry is definitely looking better in the suit.

"They also show how much star Henry Cavill has bulked up for the role; while the suit may enhance his abs, it’s pretty clear that most everything else is all him."

Click for a larger image.

What's immediately apparent is that there's a lot of similarities between the recent DC redesign and the movie design but I guess that's to be expected, really.

"Superman’s new costume sports a basketball-like pattern, gauntlets and additional lines that follow the contours of the body. But on the Man of Steel, those lines are more pronounced, forming an almost alien design on his back and lower torso mimicking that of his gauntlets. We can also see there’s the suggestion of the traditional yellow belt, now with a floating buckle."

Check out the rest of the goodies at Spinoff Online. Click here.

The movie will be directed by Zack Snyder (of 300 fame) and stars Cavill as Superman, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, and Michael Shannon as General Zod.

Marvel Comics PRESENTS...Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern!?

2011-08-30T23:07:00.000+08:00

It’s hard to believe but it came from Jim Shooter himself: Marvel almost owned Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern!

“Back in 1984 DC Comics was going through a rough time, while Marvel was thriving and dominating the market. Because of DC's hard times Bill Sarnoff of Warner Communications contacted Shooter and told him they were interested in offering them the licensing and publishing rights for all DC characters.”

Who can say how these icons would’ve fared under Marvel’s banner but one thing’s for sure: if the sale did push through Marvel Studios would be a veritable juggernaut by now not only in the world of comic publishing but also in the world of movies.

I for one am happy that the sale didn’t go through so that the competition between Marvel and DC has continued to this day because, in the end, competition is always good for the comic fans.

Read the whole story here.

Contact Details

2011-08-29T19:43:00.001+08:00

For inquiries, you can get in touch with Jonas Diego at any of the following:

E-mail: admin(AT)jonasdiego.com
Skype ID: robomonkeypixelfighters
Mobile: (+63) 906.574.6779

Follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

GTMACCON 2011

2011-08-29T19:16:00.002+08:00

Mark your calendars for the GTMACCON 2011 – The Filipino Indie Comic Book Character Cosplay Competition happening this October 22, 2011 Saturday at SM San Lazaro upper ground floor event center.

Click for a larger image.

If I am not mistaken, I believe that this the first time such an event is happening: a cosplay competition based on Pinoy indie comic characters.

Definitely something not to be missed.

WANTED: Screentone Artist

2011-08-29T07:46:00.003+08:00

Looking for a screentone artist for a small comic job (work for hire basis). Needs to apply manga-style digital screentones to comic book line art, in Photoshop or Manga Studio (final file output will be TIFFs). Pay is Php 250.00 - Php 300.00 per page depending on experience and results.

Please send samples of your screentone work to tintinp(AT)gmail.com.