At the San Diego Comic-Con 2024, the comic book world was abuzz with excitement as Joe Quesada unveiled his new comic imprint, Amazing Comics. This venture marks a significant collaboration between Mad Cave Studios and the European publishing house Dupuis, bringing together a wealth of talent and creativity.
Amazing Comics is being hailed as Idaho’s #1 comic book company, and it aims to create original concepts for an international audience. The partnership is not just a business arrangement; it is a fusion of artistic vision and storytelling prowess, spearheaded by Quesada, a legendary figure in the comic industry.
The first title to be released under the Amazing Comics banner is “Disciple,” a series co-written by Quesada and Charles Dorfman. The artwork is also by Quesada, with colors by Richard Isanove, inks by Wade von Grawbadger, and lettering by Joe Caramagna. The cover for “Disciple” was revealed at the convention, generating considerable buzz among attendees.
Quesada shared insights into the origins of “Disciple,” explaining that the project was inspired by a conversation with Dorfman, who pitched an adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” This initial idea sparked a creative journey that led to a unique reimagining of the classic tale, blending Shakespearean elements with contemporary genres. Quesada described the story as a rich, mythological world that serves as a prequel to the original “Hamlet,” set in an entirely new universe.
“The true origin of Disciple came about when I met Charles Dorfman, a talented writer with a passion for graphic storytelling,” Quesada stated. “This project blends Shakespearean elements with contemporary genres, creating a rich, mythological world for our readers to explore.” His enthusiasm for the project was palpable, as he expressed his excitement about introducing new characters and stories to fans worldwide.
The partnership behind Amazing Comics is a collaboration of like-minded individuals who share a vision for innovative graphic storytelling. Alongside Quesada, the team includes Mark Irwin, President of Mad Cave Studios, and Dupuis’ Editorial Director Stéphane Beaujean, along with Senior Editor Olivier Jalabert. Together, they aim to push the boundaries of comic book storytelling and create a platform for diverse voices and narratives.
Irwin emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Mad Cave isn’t just a comics company; we’re a publisher specializing in graphic storytelling. This collaboration with Joe and Dupuis allows us to break new ground worldwide and bring something fresh and exciting to the market.” The synergy between the three entities promises to deliver captivating content that resonates with readers across the globe.
Dupuis’ Jalabert echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in the joint venture. “Dupuis Publishing and Média-Participations are both very proud and excited by the editorial joint venture between our group and the formidable team of Mad Cave Studios,” he said. “We are undertaking an unprecedented and historical endeavor in the graphic novel space, banding together with comic book legend Joe Quesada and his Amazing Comics team to produce innovative creative content for the worldwide audience.”
The debut of “Disciple” was marked by the release of “Disciple: Quarto,” a preview comic exclusive to San Diego Comic-Con. This sneak peek provided fans with a taste of what to expect from the series, showcasing the unique blend of classic literature and modern storytelling that Quesada and Dorfman have crafted.
As Amazing Comics prepares to launch its first full series, the anticipation among comic book enthusiasts is palpable. The imprint aims to attract top talent from around the world, creating stories that appeal to a diverse audience. With its commitment to compelling characters and captivating artwork, Amazing Comics is poised to make a significant impact in the comic book industry.
Quesada’s vision for Amazing Comics has been a long time in the making. He revealed that the idea has been brewing in his mind since 2005, and he was determined to take his time to ensure that the imprint would be something special. “I promised myself not to rush into anything. Be patient and thoughtful, and always remember that I’ve been well served in my 30-plus years in comics by choosing the road less traveled,” he reflected.
With two years of planning and development behind them, the team is ready to unveil a new era of storytelling. Quesada expressed his gratitude for the partnership with Mad Cave Studios and Dupuis, stating, “Not only are they dear friends, but they’re world-class publishers who share the same vision for graphic storytelling that I do.” This collaboration is set to redefine the landscape of comic book publishing, offering readers fresh and exciting narratives.
As the comic book community eagerly awaits the release of “Disciple” and future titles from Amazing Comics, the imprint’s commitment to innovation and creativity is clear. Quesada’s passion for storytelling and his dedication to bringing new voices to the forefront of the industry will undoubtedly resonate with fans and creators alike.
In conclusion, Joe Quesada’s unveiling of Amazing Comics at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 marks a significant milestone in the comic book industry. With its focus on original concepts, international collaboration, and a commitment to compelling storytelling, Amazing Comics is set to captivate audiences around the world. The journey has just begun, and fans can look forward to a wealth of exciting new titles and characters in the coming months.
Source: Various
