Raven Gregory writes SE7EN the comic prequel!

[Ravengregory]

JOHN DOE returns.
Summer 2006

www.zenescope.com

[Gunter]

Congratulations Raven. Sounds great!

[Jim.]

Ra7en plus Se7en equals Ge7ius

[Genius J]

I really liked the movie Sesevenen.

[Christian Beranek]

What about the artist se7enhedd? Hmmm...

Zenescope is making waves, wish them nothing but the best!

[Ravengregory]

YUP, LET THE 7 jokes begin.
:)

[Sean Jackson]

That rocks hard core.

[Bill?]

yeah good for you.
although there's no possible way that this is a good idea for a comic.

[RøcketFrøg]

What's in the box?

[SimiBoyz]

Hey, I'll definately give it a go.

[JHester]

Great news Raven! I'm in.

[RyanP]

Sounds cool. I'll be picking ti up.

[James Patrick]

Well, first of all, congrats.

But I'm confused, or maybe I'm missing something, but that link says nothing about it. Doesn't even mention a se7en prequel. Am I missing something?

[TonyFleecs]

Well, first of all, congrats.

But I'm confused, or maybe I'm missing something, but that link says nothing about it. Doesn't even mention a se7en prequel. Am I missing something?
Looks like the site's down, does say they're doing licensed projects for New Line though.

That's good enough for me. Congrats raven, that's really cool.

[BigButtPanda]

Awesome man! Congrats!!!! I'll definately be picking it up!

[Adrian B AWESOME]

Well, I'm happy you've got a new book and I hope it suceeds.

However, I don't think any sort of prequel OR sequel is necessary at all. John Doe shouldn't be explained, he should merely be.

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.

But that's just my opinion.

I don't want this to be construde as "bashing," as I would tell any writer or artist the exact same thing. This just happens to be Raven.

[TonyFleecs]

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.
I look at anything like this the way Tarantino looks at Star Wars novels & EU*: "If it's not in the movie, it dosn't count". That's why it dosn't bug me.


*EU= Extended Universe, not the group that recorded the classic "Da Butt", sorry if there was any confusion there.

[BENDIS!]

sell out :)

[gwyllgi]

Well, I'm happy you've got a new book and I hope it suceeds.

However, I don't think any sort of prequel OR sequel is necessary at all. John Doe shouldn't be explained, he should merely be.

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.

But that's just my opinion.

I don't want this to be construde as "bashing," as I would tell any writer or artist the exact same thing. This just happens to be Raven.

I agree whole heartedly with this.

John Doe does not need any further explanation. He should simply be what he was. That's what makes it the classic that it is.

[Simps]

Well, I'm happy you've got a new book and I hope it suceeds.

However, I don't think any sort of prequel OR sequel is necessary at all. John Doe shouldn't be explained, he should merely be.

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.

But that's just my opinion.

I don't want this to be construde as "bashing," as I would tell any writer or artist the exact same thing. This just happens to be Raven.
I kindof agree. If someone were to try to do a Keyser Soze mini-series I'd set myself on fire.

[Howlett]

Thats great man. Looking forward to it.

[Flonk]

I love that movie

[Marc Lombardi]

I've talked to the guys at Zenescope last year because they live around the corner from me. I wanted to do some freelance PR work for them but things just never worked out. This project was one that they had mentioned to me (along with Final Destination) and it sounded interesting from the way Joe Brusha (the guy behind Zenescope) described it. I'm really interested to see what your take on the story will be, Raven, and wish you the best of luck.

I know the Zenescope guys really want this to succeed -- especially since movies are VERY important to them -- so they appear to have gone out and gotten themselves someone they know they can trust with the writing. Hopefully you get paired with an artist who is equally talented.

Good luck!

[Flonk]

Well, I'm happy you've got a new book and I hope it suceeds.

However, I don't think any sort of prequel OR sequel is necessary at all. John Doe shouldn't be explained, he should merely be.

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.

But that's just my opinion.

I don't want this to be construde as "bashing," as I would tell any writer or artist the exact same thing. This just happens to be Raven.


I was thinking the other day about why there has never been a Back to the Future comic, and I realized it's because the story is finished. There's no reason to show Marty and Doc in the Time Travelin Train. Those characters have finished their story. It's one of the reasons I hope a fourth film doesn't get made.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

I kindof agree. If someone were to try to do a Keyser Soze mini-series I'd set myself on fire.
Se7en>The Usual Suspects.

The Usual Suspects=the single most overrated film ever.

[Flonk]

Se7en>The Usual Suspects.

The Usual Suspects=the single most overrated film ever.

Once again, Adrian makes a good point, then shows he has no idea what he's talking about.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

Once again, Adrian makes a good point, then shows he has no idea what he's talking about.
It is overrated.

Maybe it was because the big surprise was half spoiled for me, and I was able to figure out the ending from it, so it wasn't nearly the twist ending everyone makes it out to be.

It's solid filmmaking, it's just not as orgasmic as everyone treats it.

[Simps]

It is overrated.

Maybe it was because the big surprise was half spoiled for me, and I was able to figure out the ending from it, so it wasn't nearly the twist ending everyone makes it out to be.

It's solid filmmaking, it's just not as orgasmic as everyone treats it.
So me saying that a mini-series detailing the background of one of the characters in the movie is the same as me orgasming over it? I'm citing another case where there's talk of a sequel, and I think it's a bad idea trying to flesh out the backstory of such a mysteriously cool character. I can't imagine any new addition as something that will cause anything but groans on my part.

[Kefky]

So me saying that a mini-series detailing the background of one of the characters in the movie is the same as me orgasming over it? I'm citing another case where there's talk of a sequel, and I think it's a bad idea trying to flesh out the backstory of such a mysteriously cool character. I can't imagine any new addition as something that will cause anything but groans on my part.

Um, I don't think he was bashing you or anything. :-?

[Flonk]

So me saying that a mini-series detailing the background of one of the characters in the movie is the same as me orgasming over it? I'm citing another case where there's talk of a sequel, and I think it's a bad idea trying to flesh out the backstory of such a mysteriously cool character. I can't imagine any new addition as something that will cause anything but groans on my part.

Are they still gonna do that Young Hanibal movie?

[Simps]

Are they still gonna do that Young Hanibal movie?
Unfortuneatley. At least Harris is writing the book, so hopefully that lends some credence to it, but the concept itself, I still couldn't give a shit about.

[weinblsIV]

Se7en is a really enjoyable movie. Quality Fincher. However, nothing and no one in the movie are so comelling that I want to learn more about them. I dont want to know why John Doe became what he became. I dont want to know what happened to Brad Pitt's character.

Then again, I wasnt interested in learning why Anakin Skywalker turned bad.

[BWC Boston]

Unfortuneatley. At least Harris is writing the book, so hopefully that lends some credence to it, but the concept itself, I still couldn't give a shit about.
Harris is an AMAZING sellout. One of those sellouts where other sellouts look at him and go, "dude, you that strapped for cash?" Jewel and the Goo-Goo Dolls question his artistic integrety.

[Ravengregory]

sell out :)

Just wait for the Top Cow/Spacedog Hip Hop urban drama book:)

[St.-]

Well, I'm happy you've got a new book and I hope it suceeds.

However, I don't think any sort of prequel OR sequel is necessary at all. John Doe shouldn't be explained, he should merely be.

Any explanation of his motives completly undermines everything David Fincher, Andrew Kevin Walker, and Kevin Spacey did in the film.

But that's just my opinion.

I don't want this to be construde as "bashing," as I would tell any writer or artist the exact same thing. This just happens to be Raven.

somewhat agree. I will also add that the artist has to be perfect for this to work.

[Ravengregory]

This is a dream project for me guys and I really hope I don't fuck it up. Seven is one of my all time favorite movies....up there with Fight Club, Crash, and Identity. So getting to add to the mythology is just really fucking cool.

John Doe is up there with Hannibal, and Freddy Kruger for me. And trying to write a story for him and still keeping the mystery of him is such a blast to do.

Hope everyone digs it but know everyone won't:)

[St.-]

This is a dream project for me guys and I really hope I don't fuck it up. Seven is one of my all time favorite movies....up there with Fight Club, Crash, and Identity. So getting to add to the mythology is just really fucking cool.

John Doe is up there with Hannibal, and Freddy Kruger for me. And trying to write a story for him and still keeping the mystery of him is such a blast to do.

Hope everyone digs it but know everyone won't:)

Actually if you keep that part the focal point I will enjoy it alot.

[Adam Beranek]

Congrats dude....It is gonna rule!!!!

[Natty P]

John Doe is up there with Hannibal, and Freddy Kruger for me. And trying to write a story for him and still keeping the mystery of him is such a blast to do.


Hannibal the Carthaginian general who crossed the alps with the elephants or the dude from the A-Team?

[Dr. Omega]

I agree whole heartedly with this.

John Doe does not need any further explanation. He should simply be what he was. That's what makes it the classic that it is.
I agree as well. I think some characters like Doe, Soze, Snake Eyes, Wolverine, etc. should never have their origins explained. The mystery is what makes the character interesting. Wolverine as the man known only as Logan is cool. Wolverine as James Howlett is lame.

Also, and I honestly mean no offense to Raven, but I have yet to see a good movie to film transition. I didn't like the Saw comic, the Serenity mini-series, or even the Buckaroo Banzai comic preview. I love Buckaroo, and the comic is written by the original writer, but it just didn't have the same umph. Joss Whedon plotted the Serenity mini and it just seemed weak and filled with forced (and quick) resolutions. I don't know if it is a matter of pacing or what.

I have read comics that felt like movies, with a fast paced plot, jaw-dropping cliffhangers and a great over-all arc (the JSA arc where they take on Eclipso/Obsidian/Mordru in Black Adam's country springs to mind).I do wish you luck with this, Raven. Despite my objections, I will probably still pick this up to see what you did with it.


Dr. Ω

[DrMachine]

I agree whole heartedly with this.

John Doe does not need any further explanation. He should simply be what he was. That's what makes it the classic that it is.

Congrats to Raven, but I wholeheartedly agree with Gwyllgi and the AWESOME one.

[MonstaMack]

MonstaMack thinks that Raven Gregory shouldn't talk about himself in the third person, even in a topic title, because MonstaMack thinks it makes Raven Gregory look very, very silly.

MonstaMack congratulates Raven Gregory however, because he quite enjoyed the Gift. MonstaMack looks forward to this.

[Flonk]

Also, and I honestly mean no offense to Raven, but I have yet to see a good movie to film transition. I didn't like the Saw comic, the Serenity mini-series, or even the Buckaroo Banzai comic preview. I love Buckaroo, and the comic is written by the original writer, but it just didn't have the same umph. Joss Whedon plotted the Serenity mini and it just seemed weak and filled with forced (and quick) resolutions. I don't know if it is a matter of pacing or what.


There was a Ghostbusters mini last year that was pretty good.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

There was a Ghostbusters mini last year that was pretty good.
Yeah, and they fucking squandered the rights.

The "ongoing series" they had planned is never coming out, which is BULLSHIT.

[Flonk]

Yeah, and they fucking squandered the rights.

The "ongoing series" they had planned is never coming out, which is BULLSHIT.

Figures. The one good one will never see the light of day.


Anybody read Avatars RoboCop series? Fucking awful. Eye bleedingly bad art, and they didn't even pretend to have a plot.

[Jonny Z]

i hope they get the rights to fight club and do a tyler durden prequel. that guy probably had a lot of shit goin on before he met ed norton

[Adrian B AWESOME]

i hope they get the rights to fight club and do a tyler durden prequel. that guy probably had a lot of shit goin on before he met ed norton
You mean Jack, duh!

[Flonk]

i hope they get the rights to fight club and do a tyler durden prequel. that guy probably had a lot of shit goin on before he met ed norton

I think he lived in the appartment below the Kramdens.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

I think he lived in the appartment below the Kramdens.
Was that before or after those 10 people showed up?

[James Patrick]

i hope they get the rights to fight club and do a tyler durden prequel. that guy probably had a lot of shit goin on before he met ed norton

Word. And now you got me thinking, maybe they should do one or two prequels for Alien 3.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

Word. And now you got me thinking, maybe they should do one or two prequels for Alien 3.
What about "Secrets of the Panic Room?"

[Ravengregory]

I agree as well. I think some characters like Doe, Soze, Snake Eyes, Wolverine, etc. should never have their origins explained. The mystery is what makes the character interesting. Wolverine as the man known only as Logan is cool. Wolverine as James Howlett is lame.

Also, and I honestly mean no offense to Raven, but I have yet to see a good movie to film transition. I didn't like the Saw comic, the Serenity mini-series, or even the Buckaroo Banzai comic preview. I love Buckaroo, and the comic is written by the original writer, but it just didn't have the same umph. Joss Whedon plotted the Serenity mini and it just seemed weak and filled with forced (and quick) resolutions. I don't know if it is a matter of pacing or what.

I have read comics that felt like movies, with a fast paced plot, jaw-dropping cliffhangers and a great over-all arc (the JSA arc where they take on Eclipso/Obsidian/Mordru in Black Adam's country springs to mind).I do wish you luck with this, Raven. Despite my objections, I will probably still pick this up to see what you did with it.


Dr. Ω

I agree. I have yet to see a comic/movie related project that was any good. Final Destination seems to be shaping up but we'll have to wait and see how the rest of the issues play out.

[Ravengregory]

MonstaMack thinks that Raven Gregory shouldn't talk about himself in the third person, even in a topic title, because MonstaMack thinks it makes Raven Gregory look very, very silly.

MonstaMack congratulates Raven Gregory however, because he quite enjoyed the Gift. MonstaMack looks forward to this.


Noted. Raven Gregory will not refer to himself in the third person as Raven Gregory ever Raven again Gregory:eek:

[Flonk]

Was that before or after those 10 people showed up?


Tyler Durden had an affair with Mrs. Faversham.

[Ravengregory]

Yeah, and they fucking squandered the rights.

The "ongoing series" they had planned is never coming out, which is BULLSHIT.

Agreed. I was really looking forward to this and Tron.

[Flonk]

What about "Secrets of the Panic Room?"


The Pre-game

[James Patrick]

I agree. I have yet to see a comic/movie related project that was any good. Final Destination seems to be shaping up but we'll have to wait and see how the rest of the issues play out.

heh. well, surpassing the movies won't be too hard.

[Ravengregory]

You mean Jack, duh!

The narrator was never named, Adrian. It was always Tyler Durden.

[Flonk]

Agreed. I was really looking forward to this and Tron.

All the Slave Labor/Disney stuff looks pretty interesting.

[Jonny Z]

heh. well, surpassing the movies won't be too hard.

the only good thing about any of the movies was that scene in the first movie where the bus comes out of nowhere.

gonna be kinda hard to re-create that kind of moment in the comics...

[Adrian B AWESOME]

The narrator was never named, Adrian. It was always Tyler Durden.
That was the joke.

People INSIST his name is Jack, but he's just mimicking the children's health books he found in the Paper Street Soap Company HQ.

As well, it wasn't even Jack in the book, it was Joe. And yet, people somehow think that his name is Jack.

Idiots.

[Ravengregory]

the only good thing about any of the movies was that scene in the first movie where the bus comes out of nowhere.

gonna be kinda hard to re-create that kind of moment in the comics...

Honestly, I enjoyed the movies on a very base want to see cool death scenes level. It's along the same lines as watching a Michael Bay film where action is doen for action sake.

[Ravengregory]

That was the joke.

People INSIST his name is Jack, but he's just mimicking the children's health books he found in the Paper Street Soap Company HQ.

As well, it wasn't even Jack in the book, it was Joe. And yet, people somehow think that his name is Jack.

Idiots.

I keep forgetting there was a book. Is it better than the movie?

[PhilipClark]

Score, Raven. I'll have to check it out.

[Flonk]

That was the joke.

People INSIST his name is Jack, but he's just mimicking the children's health books he found in the Paper Street Soap Company HQ.

As well, it wasn't even Jack in the book, it was Joe. And yet, people somehow think that his name is Jack.

Idiots.

In the book he uses a different name each time.

[Jonny Z]

I keep forgetting there was a book.

:nonono2:

[Adrian B AWESOME]

I keep forgetting there was a book. Is it better than the movie?
With the exception of the ending, I think so.

However, Chuck Palahniuk disagrees fully and says that the film put his book to shame. He says after seeing the film, he was "embarassed" of the book, that's how perfect Fincher and the cast found the heart and soul of the book.

Personally, however, the book is better for the most part. The ending in the film, however, is perfect, and Palahniuk says as well that he wished he thought of it.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

In the book he uses a different name each time.
Sorry, I couldn't remember. I haven't read it in a while, and I left it in storage...

[M. Sean McManus]

JOHN DOE returns.
Summer 2006

www.zenescope.com
HA! Awesome... Congratulations, man!

[Flonk]

With the exception of the ending, I think so.

However, Chuck Palahniuk disagrees fully and says that the film put his book to shame. He says after seeing the film, he was "embarassed" of the book, that's how perfect Fincher and the cast found the heart and soul of the book.

Personally, however, the book is better for the most part. The ending in the film, however, is perfect, and Palahniuk says as well that he wished he thought of it.


I though the end of the book was a lot creepier. It's hard to say which versoin is better, they both so good.

[Adrian B AWESOME]

I though the end of the book was a lot creepier. It's hard to say which versoin is better, they both so good.
The book ending bothered me, because of the returning threat, but the movie bothers me more, because though he's got Marla and they love each other, he says "Everything's going to be alright," BUT IT'S NOT! YOU JUST BLEW UP A BUNCH OF BUILDINGS! NOTHING'S GOING TO BE FINE!!!

[James Patrick]

the only good thing about any of the movies was that scene in the first movie where the bus comes out of nowhere.



yeah, a genuinely original moment in the movies.

[Ravengregory]

I though the end of the book was a lot creepier. It's hard to say which versoin is better, they both so good.

Since I will now never read the book, can someone drop a spoiler on the ending of the book for me?

[Travis M. Bierwagen]

I was thinking the other day about why there has never been a Back to the Future comic, and I realized it's because the story is finished. There's no reason to show Marty and Doc in the Time Travelin Train. Those characters have finished their story. It's one of the reasons I hope a fourth film doesn't get made.

http://cache.tias.com/stores/tnc/pictures/187a.jpg

[Adrian B AWESOME]

http://cache.tias.com/stores/tnc/pictures/187a.jpg
based off the cartoon, not the movie

[Travis M. Bierwagen]

based off the cartoon, not the movie

Well, he wasn't that specific... :Oops:

Originally Posted by Flonk
I was thinking the other day about why there has never been a Back to the Future comic, and I realized it's because the story is finished. There's no reason to show Marty and Doc in the Time Travelin Train. Those characters have finished their story. It's one of the reasons I hope a fourth film doesn't get made.

[Flonk]

Well, he wasn't that specific... :Oops:

Originally Posted by Flonk
I was thinking the other day about why there has never been a Back to the Future comic, and I realized it's because the story is finished. There's no reason to show Marty and Doc in the Time Travelin Train. Those characters have finished their story. It's one of the reasons I hope a fourth film doesn't get made.


Oh, you knew what I was talking about, silly goose.

[Caley Tibbittz]

I really liked the movie Sesevenen.
:lol:

...there are days you make me fall in love with you all over again...

[Movie Maker]

regardless of who's writing it.

no.

[Caley Tibbittz]

regardless of who's writing it.

no.
What if Jesus was writing it?

[justjeffery]

I really should be inking one of those issues...

[Ravengregory]

I really should be inking one of those issues...
:)

[Kefky]

I know this can extremely annoying, but could one of you guys throw me some spoilers about how the fight club book's different from the movie? Specially the ending. You all caught my curiosity now. =P

[Adrian B AWESOME]

I know this can extremely annoying, but could one of you guys throw me some spoilers about how the fight club book's different from the movie? Specially the ending. You all caught my curiosity now. =P
You guys should really shell out and read the book instead.

It supports good literature and good writers.

[Kefky]

You guys should really shell out and read the book instead.

It supports good literature and good writers.

But... but... I'm LAZY! Support my lack of action! :mad:

[TonyFleecs]

Almost 90 posts & nobody likes the "EU" joke... Is EU just not funny anymore?

[Jacob Lyon Goddard]

Raven
i am going to kick your ass

[Georgie]

Jealousy!!!

[Justin.Strange]

With the exception of the ending, I think so.

However, Chuck Palahniuk disagrees fully and says that the film put his book to shame. He says after seeing the film, he was "embarassed" of the book, that's how perfect Fincher and the cast found the heart and soul of the book.


have y'all heard the rumor that they're making a film based off of Palahniuk's other novel, "Choke"?

[Ravengregory]

Raven
i am going to kick your ass

I promise there is NO violence in this comic...well...maybe a little:grope:

[Jacob Lyon Goddard]

I promise there is NO violence in this comic...well...maybe a little:grope:
i'm going to kick your ass for making a comic that is not going to be good, done only for money

[Simps]

With the exception of the ending, I think so.

However, Chuck Palahniuk disagrees fully and says that the film put his book to shame. He says after seeing the film, he was "embarassed" of the book, that's how perfect Fincher and the cast found the heart and soul of the book.

Personally, however, the book is better for the most part. The ending in the film, however, is perfect, and Palahniuk says as well that he wished he thought of it.

When I met Palahniuk a few years ago, I had no idea about his feelings on the movie, so I nervously asked "I know you get this all the time, but what did you think of the movie?", worried he was going to be annoyed, but instead he just talked about how he loved it. So it was nice to hear someone who was happy about their work's translation to another medium.

[Ravengregory]

i'm going to kick your ass for making a comic that is not going to be good, done only for money

The funny thing is (and keep this between us) I am such a fan of the movie I would have wrote this for free. And it is going to be good fucker....don't judge until you read it;)

and you hated the movie anyway...because there was violence:)

[Taxman]

Were there some way to include Gwyneth Paltrow getting her head cut off, that would please me greatly.

[Jacob Lyon Goddard]

The funny thing is (and keep this between us) I am such a fan of the movie I would have wrote this for free. And it is going to be good fucker....don't judge until you read it;)

and you hated the movie anyway...because there was violence:)
eh
the movie was ai'ight

[Ravengregory]

eh
the movie was ai'ight


Blasphemer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[copypastepuke]

dont fuck it up raven! you are playing with a fucking masterpiece of film.!

good luck!

[Ravengregory]

dont fuck it up raven! you are playing with a fucking masterpiece of film.!

good luck!


Gee thanks. No pressure there, huh?:-x
This is up there with doing something for Marvel or DC so hopefully it's a story people will enjoy...in a really fucked up and twisted sort of way.:grope:

[Marcdachamp]

Congrats, Raven.

Since Se7en's one of my all-time favorite books, I might have to pick it up.

[Ravengregory]

Congrats, Raven.

Since Se7en's one of my all-time favorite books, I might have to pick it up.


thanks
I appreciate the support.

[kubiak]

Hey, cool! I wasn't going to get this before, but I will now. Congratulations, Raven!

[dEnny!]

JOHN DOE returns.
Summer 2006

www.zenescope.com

I'll be expecting good things! Congratulations.

[sareara]

damn boy...you go!! Congrats!!

[Ravengregory]

thanks everyone.

[butchy stubbs]

I agree. I have yet to see a comic/movie related project that was any good. Final Destination seems to be shaping up but we'll have to wait and see how the rest of the issues play out.
Yeah you're right the first issue of Final Destination was suprisingy really good. I noticed the Seven add in the back and was a bit surprised. People that think that the seven story and characters of
seven shouldn't be explored more don't need to read it. Whether that's true or not doesn't matter to me.You can't really compare comics to movie and books especially to something as great as the Seven movie. I like good comics and especially dark/horror comics and if it's a good comic I'll like it.

[Ravengregory]

Yeah you're right the first issue of Final Destination was suprisingy really good. I noticed the Seven add in the back and was a bit surprised. People that think that the seven story and characters of
seven shouldn't be explored more don't need to read it. Whether that's true or not doesn't matter to me.You can't really compare comics to movie and books especially to something as great as the Seven movie. I like good comics and especially dark/horror comics and if it's a good comic I'll like it.


it is dark as fuck...so you'll dig8-)

[Ravengregory]

From comicbookresources.com

News
HORRIFIC SINS: "SE7EN" COMES TO COMICS THIS SEPTEMBER
by Jonah Weiland, Executive Producer
Posted: May 2, 2006

NOTE: The following story contains preview images intended for an adult audience.

One evening in 1995, I successfully convinced my then girlfriend to join me in seeing the David Fincher film "Se7en." She really wasn't that interested in seeing the movie, but considering I sat through a chick flick with her the week before, she was happy to go along for the ride. Based on the previews I saw of the film, "Se7en" appeared to set new standards for horror, so my interest was piqued. The film was the latest water cooler topic at my job, so I figured I'd better go see this thing before the identity of killer John Doe was revealed to me.

The movie began and I was instantly enthralled. It's not often I find myself in a theater and subsequently forget that anyone else is there with me. Nothing could distract me from the gripping story about a serial killer, John Doe, who uses the seven deadly sins as his excuse to cause all sorts of mayhem. The incredible performances and direction, as well as a gruesome story that you just couldn't turn away from, had me riveted. It was as if it was just me and the film and there was no one else around me.

That is, until the scene where the two detectives investigate the sin of Sloth, when they walk into a room and assume that the person lying in the bed is dead, when suddenly the person rises in a most surprising and shocking manner. It caught me unprepared. I jumped in my seat and let out a high-pitched scream. Once I composed myself, my girlfriend, who barely reacted to the scene, leaned over and whispered, "My God, you screamed like a girl. How embarrassing." Indeed, it was.

Since then I can't say a film has scared me in quite the same way, but there's a good possibility later this year it could happen again, this time in comic form. Zenescope Entertainment will release the first issue of a new, seven issue monthly series this September based on the film "Se7en." Each issue will explore a different sin in 32 page, full color format with a wide variety of creators bringing their talents to the table. CBR News spoke with Zenescope's Ralph Tedesco and Joe Tyler to learn more about their plans to bring this big screen thriller to the printed page.

Zenescope acquired the "Se7en" license after having crafted a strong relationship with New Line Cinema when they landed the "Final Destination" license. "We approached them with the idea for 'Se7en.' They seemed interested, we did some sample stuff for them and voila, it was a good fit," Tyler told CBR News. "I can't say enough about how great New Line has been to work with. They're fantastic."

"Honestly 'Se7en' was probably the first license we ever talked about acquiring," Tedesco told CBR News. "We are both huge fans of the movie and it's one of those what-ifs that we always wanted to explore. What is really going on inside John Doe's mind? Who is this guy? What drove him to do these horrible things?"

"He's such an intriguing character that those watching can't help, but want to know so much more about the guy," Tyler added. "He's only on-screen for 15 minutes or so, but you find yourself desperate to learn more."

"Se7en" the comic series takes place before the deadly sins murders story told in the film, giving readers a chance to learn more about the mysterious John Doe. The first comic features two men - a fat man who hopes to change his life and a killer whose murders would change the world. Fat man, meet John Doe. And thus the sin of Gluttony is up first for examination.

"Without giving too much away all I can say is this series will actually bring the reader into John Doe's world," explained Tedesco. "We're going to look at everything through Doe's eyes this time rather than from the points of view of Detective Mills and Sommerset, as in the film."

"Exactly. The whole idea is to get into the mind of this disturbed yet fascinating character and give some insight into what makes him tick," added Tyler.

"Gluttony" will be explored by "The Gift" creator Raven Gregory. Zenescope has lined up an extensive team of creators that continues to grow. Tyler told CBR News that in addition to Gregory, writer Christian Beranek from "Dracula vs. King Arthur" has agreed to write a story and the team is in talks with writers Steve Niles and David Wohl to contribute as well. "Artists such as David Seidman and Sean O'Reilly's Arcana Studio will be collaborating, too," explained Tedesco. "We just knew what an impact this movie had on gen-eXers and we felt that working with some great writers and artists from our generation could add new ideas to an incredible concept."

In the film, John Doe keeps some very extensive and obsessive notebooks on each deadly sin and the team has set out to bring each one to life in the pages of "Se7en." "You'll see both a sequential storyline peppered with actual notebook pages," said Tedesco. "We want to give the reader a feel that he or she is actually reading through Doe's notebooks. We want the reader to really be affected by this man's thoughts and story. I think it'll be unlike anything you've seen before in comics."

In addition to developing, editing and publishing the series, Tyler and Tedesco will co-write two of the stories found in "Se7en." Film director David Fincher and screenwriter Kevin Walker will not be involved in the comic. "We would love it if they were, but knowing how busy both of them are on film projects I think it was just too much to ask," Tyler explained.

Zenescope is working with a number of creators on "Se7en" who have very different styles and sensibilities. Tedesco said the brief they're giving their writers is a basic concept to work with, then they get out of their way to let them explore the horror all on their own. "All of our writers are so talented and enthusiastic about this project that we don't have to really give them too much in terms of direction," said Tedesco. "There is a specific tone they need to follow to keep the series consistent and we found that each writer we've brought on is really nailing that tone.

"As for artists, we just needed to make sure we're working with reliable talent," continued Tedesco. "Guys who have a lot of experience in this industry and who get what we're trying to do, can effectively convey what the writer is putting on paper and then add even more to it with their artwork. It's such a visually powerful series that getting the right combination of artists was key.

"The covers alone are nothing short of mesmerizing and the interiors are going to be incredibly intense. David Seidman is our cover artist and he's also doing all of the design work. He's truly going to blow people away with the stuff he's doing."

"Se7en" as a comics title has a great deal of promise to bring in fans from outside the direct market. "We plan on promoting 'Se7en' rather heavily - especially within the comic book market through Diamond Previews, as well as through great comic news sources such as CBR," said Tedesco. "But we're also really focused on getting the graphic novel into books stores next year where it'll be available to an even wider audience.

"We recently brought on a new publicist to help market all of our titles, but I still believe the best form of marketing is word of mouth and the only way to get that going is to really deliver what fans want so the buzz can get going on it."

Zenescope's "Grimm Fairy Tales" debuted to strong initial numbers for an independently produced comic title and the team is believes they can definitely exceed those numbers with "Se7en." Tyler said, "The two reasons for that is because A> 'Se7en' is such a popular property and B> we've been around now for over a year now and Zenescope is quickly garnering a following of some really incredible fans. What we hope is that as more people start reading our titles, they'll enjoy them enough to try our other books. Again, it really comes back to delivering solid books so people will want to see what else you have going on."

Before we let the duo go, we asked Tyler and Tedesco to introduce Zenescope to our readers and give us some insight into their their publishing philosophy. "I think our main philosophy is simple- offer intriguing titles that will interest not only long time comic book readers, but will also catch the attention of mainstream audiences," explained Tyler.

"When the casual fan thinks comic books they think Spider Man, Batman and The X-Men. But there are so many different and interesting genres to explore," continued Tedesco. "Titles like 'Se7en,' 'Grimm Fairy Tales,' 'Final Destination,' these all have universal appeal which we hope will help lure in new readers while at the same time entertain hard-core fans as well."

You've read the news, now talk about it here on CBR's Indy Comics Forum.

Story adapted from Comic Book Resources
™ & © 1995-2006 Boiling Point Productions DBA Comic Book Resources.

[Ravengregory]

and the end result is revealed in four days. Let me know what you think guys. Good or bad I'd love to hear your thoughts on the issue.

Bests,

[Brad N.]

and the end result is revealed in four days. Let me know what you think guys. Good or bad I'd love to hear your thoughts on the issue.

Bests,

I'll check it out mos def. I make it a habit to buy any and everything my fellow boarders put out there and I have yet to be disappointed. Hopefully when my book is done and out I'll feel a little karma flow my way too. :D Anyway Raven, I'll let you know what I think, but I'm sure I'll dig it as Se7en is one of my favorite films.

[Ravengregory]

I'll check it out mos def. I make it a habit to buy any and everything my fellow boarders put out there and I have yet to be disappointed. Hopefully when my book is done and out I'll feel a little karma flow my way too. :D Anyway Raven, I'll let you know what I think, but I'm sure I'll dig it as Se7en is one of my favorite films.

thanks

[SimiBoyz]

Gonna be a month before I get my hands on it. :(

[Ravengregory]

so what did you guys think?

[butchy stubbs]

I loved it! Dark and desolite like it should be. And the photographs made it even more disturbing. I'm really looking foward to the rest now especially lust. Great Job!
Jeff

[Ravengregory]

I loved it! Dark and desolite like it should be. And the photographs made it even more disturbing. I'm really looking foward to the rest now especially lust. Great Job!
Jeff

Glad you enjoyed it.

[Brad N.]

so what did you guys think?

Had it in my pull list and glad my LCS remembered to put it in my box this week. I haven't gotten to it yet, but it's coming up soon in my read pile, man.

[GelfXIII]

So my lcs told me they couldn't get ish 1 for me. Any place I can order one on-line?

[Briomega]

I enjoyed it. I thought we'd see a deeper look into the planning and stuff before the murder, but it was a good read. The art was fantastic.

[Ravengregory]

So my lcs told me they couldn't get ish 1 for me. Any place I can order one on-line?

Try zenescope.com

They'll have it. Word on the street is that it sold out so fast and the reorders moved so quickly that it went to back order status within a day.

[Garth]

Try zenescope.com

They'll have it. Word on the street is that it sold out so fast and the reorders moved so quickly that it went to back order status within a day.

Does this mean there is a chance of seeing a trade?

[Christian Beranek]

Does this mean there is a chance of seeing a trade?

We're shooting for it. Hopefully we can keep the sales moving forward to get to that point. We're gonna need your support to help make it happen!

[Ravengregory]

We're shooting for it. Hopefully we can keep the sales moving forward to get to that point. We're gonna need your support to help make it happen!

I'm looking forward to the Pride issue. Who's doing that one, Christian?

[Ravengregory]

http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=89468

GREED PREVIEW

[Christian Beranek]

I'm looking forward to the Pride issue. Who's doing that one, Christian?

My good friend David Wohl is writing that issue. Should have images soon...

[Thomas Mauer]

Raven, I didn't want to check out your Se7en issue at first because the Gift pimpage was putting me off. But you've won me over, man. You wrote a great, moody story.

David's issue looks cool so far as well!

[Ravengregory]

Raven, I didn't want to check out your Se7en issue at first because the Gift pimpage was putting me off. But you've won me over, man. You wrote a great, moody story.

David's issue looks cool so far as well!

Glad you liked it.

[Ravengregory]

What's in the box?

Issue two should be coming out here either this week or next week.