tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178630212024-03-07T01:43:46.909-08:00Champagne Wishes 3.0keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.comBlogger282125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-46473617027903318802013-10-01T07:51:00.001-07:002013-10-01T07:51:34.837-07:00The first episode of my new column is live over at Bleedingcool.com. Ride this link on over and check it out, dammit! <br />
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<a href="http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/09/30/champagne-supernova-getting-out-of-the-kitchen/">http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/09/30/champagne-supernova-getting-out-of-the-kitchen/</a>keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-33243032195877584922013-09-25T07:55:00.002-07:002013-09-25T07:55:47.094-07:00(dusts off microphone)<br />
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Ahem. Is this thing on?<br />
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I'll be returning to my blog shortly. At the moment, I'm preparing for an all-day signing event at Limited Edition Comics in Iowa. But soon, the blogging fun will begin again!<br />
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Hope you've all been well!<br />
Keithkeith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-1368583257729026772010-11-20T19:27:00.000-08:002010-11-21T20:32:03.268-08:00Welcome to the 5TH DIMENSION!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0bs-4U2yi7bmiJMABw1Sf8tttpoVP5EsG2vyme4fXS47AZKPTRH1I_wOv0UapRVUC_tuWRERnZOGSZoRDAcspjdE_0RvG3auvt1L9ObAuNWwye9jRgoCVPL8vauwlCreH3pM/s1600/5-2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 120px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541851804570776178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA0bs-4U2yi7bmiJMABw1Sf8tttpoVP5EsG2vyme4fXS47AZKPTRH1I_wOv0UapRVUC_tuWRERnZOGSZoRDAcspjdE_0RvG3auvt1L9ObAuNWwye9jRgoCVPL8vauwlCreH3pM/s320/5-2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>For a couple of weeks now, I've been teasing on my Facebook page about a big announcement I've been planning on making. I intended to pull up the curtain on Friday but, because of deadlines and work commitments, didn't have the time to do it right.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>So without further ado, here we go.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I'm very excited to announce that I'm a majority partner in a new publishing company, a little entity we decided to call 5th DIMENSION COMICS.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>The key word in that sentence being "partner." While the bulk of the initial day to day operations/decisions fall to me, this new venture wouldn't exist without the trust and enthusiasm of a few old friends. So let me introduce them to you:</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Comic book readers will remember the name DEV MADAN as the co-creator/penciller of the fondly remembered DC Comics series YOUNG HEROES IN LOVE. He's very busy these days running the entire video game industry from his secret headquarters in Seattle but he's agreed to lend his digital expertise to the company and his creative mojo to a super-secret project he's currently slaving away on. And where Dev goes, can the Young Heroes be far behind?</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Personal friends will know well the names of my other two partners in this enterprise: STEVE DOBIEJKO and JOE (certified f'n awesome) PODVARNEY.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Facebook friends in particular know Steve as the ruthless bastard who cuts me to shreds with his wit and sarcasm every time I update my status. In reality, while he is every bit as ruthless, witty, and sarcastic as we're led to believe, he's also a shrewd business man and an original thinker who is lending his insight and acumen to the company.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Joe is our man of mystery. He's a lover, as the ladies will certainly attest. Rumor has it he spent some time in the underground pitfighting circuit and I once heard he killed a dog. Or maybe I once told someone Joe killed a man. Hard to say.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Joe also sports an impressive business acumen and has agreed to lend his reservoir of intelligence to our enterprise. It's not an overstatement to say that, literally, this company wouldn't exist without Steve, Joe, and Dev. While I'm mouthing off up front, they're the behind-the-scenes trio that have made the whole thing happen.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>So...what about the company itself?</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>5th Dimension will be producing original, full-color graphic novels for the comic book and book store market. It's not our only objective but it's our primary purpose.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Our publishing plan is still taking shape but I can say we're going to roll out smart and, beginning in the February PREVIEWS, will have product listed for the rest of the calendar year. Graphic novels, lithographs, instructional DVD's and more beginning with the collected (and completely remastered) edition of ARMOR X by myself and Andy Smith.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I'll be talking a lot about ARMOR X between now and February. No need to spill the details right now but, suffice to say, if you read the original series, you've never read this ARMOR X before.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Initially, our content will also be available for digital download through Graphic.ly and we've got some surprises in store for what you're going to find when you enter 5th Dimension: Digital.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>For now, I'm blowing the spider-webs off my blog and this will be the place where I'll be touching base to update everyone on what we're up to. Once the official website is up, I'll shift the party over there but if you'd be so kind0 please check back often for the latest goings on.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>And most importantly, I want to hear from you! If you're an established comic book creator who wants to put together an original graphic novel, hit me up. If you're a new talent looking to break into the business, let's talk. If you run a comics news website and want to help spread the word, I'm ready to chat. If you own a comic book store, lets have some words about possible incentives to order and promote 5th Dimension product.</div><div> </div><div>I'm easy to find at <a href="mailto:keithchampagne@gmail.com">keithchampagne@gmail.com</a>. </div><br />Thanks for reading and I look forward to hearing from you!<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div>keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-83050955584114362812010-11-09T20:39:00.000-08:002010-11-09T20:42:16.304-08:00Blog powers...REACTIVATE!!So it's never a good sign when it takes three tries to successfully remember one's login info and access one's own blog.<br /><br />Anyway...lots of good coming down the pike and I'll be trying to update my blog at least once a week. Look for a big announcement next Friday, which off the top of my head is the 19th of November, where the first pieces of my master plan will be unveiled.<br /><br />Come back, readers!keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-69843916125874874692010-03-28T20:24:00.000-07:002010-03-28T20:39:12.805-07:00Dick GiordanoI've been pretty wrapped up the past week with the new addition to our household, so much so that I only today learned that the great Dick Giordano passed away this weekend.<br /><br />I never met Mister Giordano personally. Anything I know of the man was gleaned by religiously reading his editorials every month in the back of DC's books. He had left his position at the company before I started working for DC although I did actually ink him on a job for a Flash annual in the mid-90's.<br /><br />Imagine that. Me inking one of the greatest inkers in the history of the comic book medium. And man, did I fuck it up. You ever want to talk about stagefright, that job was a classic case. Mr. Giordano was an artist whose work I studied for years. Every page he inked was a textbook in what an inker does. So you'd think I might have been a little more competent but sadly, that wasn't the case.<br /><br />Nonetheless, I still have the originals filed away and it's a small joy of my career that our paths touched, at least briefly.<br /><br />There are a lot of people who knew Mr. Giordano personally, who are more eloquent than I am, and will write about the man, the artist, the executive, and his accomplishments in much more touching fashion than I ever could.<br /><br />I would just like to say that the name and work of Dick Giordano touched my life on a monthly basis for many, many years. I read his columns, I studied his work, I hoped that one day he might hire me if I were ever lucky enough to impress him with my samples. His passing leaves a hole in my youth (which is starting to look like Swiss cheese as more of my heroes pass away), and a void in this crazy little business that will never be filled.<br /><br />I am deeply, deeply saddened by his passing.<br /><br />As Dick would always say, "Thank you and good afternoon."keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-35342731724462392132009-12-06T07:42:00.000-08:002009-12-06T07:56:27.537-08:00All the latest...Working on a Sunday today, figured I'd take a break to pay attention to my poor blog. I neglect her badly but she's always here waiting for me.<br /><br />Last week, Titan Books announced the WWE HEROES cycle of series I'm writing for them. Just google WWE HEROES, KEITH CHAMPAGNE and you're sure to get a million sites running the press release. I've literally never gotten more interview requests and congratulatory emails about a project before. Took me a bit by surprise, really. Anyway, I'll have more to say about it as we get closer to the release of the first issue in March but for now, I've finished the first five-issue series and am ramping up to start the second this week.<br /><br />The Mighty is wrapped. Tomasi and I finished the dialogue to the twelth issue a few weeks ago and we're both very, very happy with the way things end. That should be out in just a month or so, right after the new year. I'll have more to say about the Mighty when #12 ships, kind of an epilogue sort of post. It's been a great ride, the book has been very warmly reviewed all the way through, and I can't wait to work with Chris Samnee again.<br /><br />Peter and I have finished up the pitch for the project we want to write next. It's another creator-owned series and will be published by either DC, Vertigo, or Wildstorm. More on that when there's more to say.<br /><br />And finally, Death Valley has been pulled from the schedule by Desperado as they retool their publishing plans in light of their alliance with IDW. I'd like to get the book out there but I understand their position and it doesn't hurt to have a little extra breathing room to get the art completely finished before we start shipping. The idea was floated last week to publish it as a graphic novel so we'll see what happens.<br /><br />Nevermore? Who knows. Now that Dabel Brothers has been purchased by Dynamite, I'll be speaking to Nick Barucci this week to figure it out. Once I'm caught up on money owed, I'll be happy to finish the series. I like Dynamite and Nicky is one of the good ones in an industry full of not-so-good. I'm sure this story will have a happy ending--even if Bobby Godric (the lead in Nevermore) doesn't.<br /><br />And that's all for now. Catch up to everybody soon.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-67777607281051978972009-10-04T11:06:00.001-07:002009-10-04T11:24:25.987-07:00Hitting many basesBeen awhile, how's everybody doing out there? Thought I'd grab a few minutes on a miscellaneous day ( a day where I'm basically dotting t's and crossing i's...or something like that) to pop in and see what's shaking.<br /><br />The Mighty #9 ships this Wednesday, I hope everybody will pick it up and are continuing to enjoy the story. Just four more issues until the end of 'Season One.' I shot my pass at the dialogue for #11 over to Tomasi this weekend, the amazing Chris Samnee has finished up issue #12, #10 is lettered and in the process of being colored so creatively, we're in the home stretch. The fit really hits the shan over the last handful of issues and I hope everyone feels that the long, slow build has been worth the wait.<br /><br />In other news, Death Valley #1 is solicited from Desperado this month in the giant Previews phone book. It's my first western and I hope you'll come along for the ride and at least try the first issue. I don't think you'll be disappointed, especially if you like famous outlaws, ninjas, or famous outlaws fighting ninjas. A little something for the whole family in this one.<br /><br />Moving on, I should know the issue number to this week's issue of Green Lantern Corp because I jumped in to ink a handful of pages and help beat the deadline crunch. Lots of fun inking my beloved Patrick Gleason and it's the first time we've worked together since I wrote and he drew our little Corpse story back in GLC #7-9. It's just as enjoyable to ink him as it is to write for him, I'm happy to say! I've inked a couple of pin-ups and covers over Pat over the years but this is the first time I've done interior work with him. Maybe I'll do some more in the future, I was surprised to find myself enjoying inking again.<br /><br />Let's see...Dean Koontz' NEVERMORE from the Dabel Brothers should be a post unto itself. Not sure when #3 will arrive in stores but I'd imagine soon. Maybe I'll blog more about the behind-the-scenes on this project another time soon.<br /><br />And lastly, for now, I'm going to accept a limited number of commissions for those interested. I'm often contacted by readers looking for personalized art and usually, I say no because I'm generally doing six hundred things on any given day and really can't squeeze in #601. But as an exercise in stretching my wings, I'm going to say yes to five or six. If you're interested, please email me at <a href="mailto:keithchampagne@gmail.com">keithchampagne@gmail.com</a> for prices/sizes/info for either a pencilled/inked piece or, if you have a previously pencilled commission you'd like inked, we can talk about that as well.<br /><br />I'll try to pop in later this week to talk further about it but if I get sidetracked, I'll be appearing at Fallcon this coming weekend, Oct 9-11, in Minnesota. It's my third or fourth time being flown out for the show and Nick Post and his crew always put on a top notch convention. By all means, say hi if you're in the area.<br /><br />More soon.<br />Keithkeith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-16232317380988128162009-08-08T08:07:00.000-07:002009-08-08T08:15:44.934-07:00The Mighty #7Such a busy week, I forgot to pop over here to the blog and alert the world that THE MIGHTY #7 is now in better comic book stores across the nation. So get out there and add it to your personal collection, it's what all the cool kids are doing this summer.<br /><br />I turned 39 a few days ago and had a random thought. According to life insurance actuarial tables, my life is well over half over. Statistically speaking, most men die in their 60's. Women live a bit longer on average, can't imagine why that would be...<br /><br />Anyway, it's strange to think that possibly over half my time on this ball of mud has passed. I still feel like I'm barely getting started in so many ways. Guess I better buckle down and start living and working myself a little harder while I still can.<br /><br />Back to The Mighty, if you're inclined to comment on #7, I'm interested in hearing where people think the story is headed. No one is really sure what Alpha-One is up to but he's proven to be devious. But is he devious for the right reasons (if there is such a thing)? Is he doing wrong for the greater good? Let me know what you think.<br /><br />In other news, I'll be resuming a more frequent blogging schedule come September. Wasn't too long ago that I used to post a couple of times a week. There's quite a bit going on behind the scenes and I should be able to start talking a bit more about it soon.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-65953808575698145862009-07-17T13:54:00.000-07:002009-07-17T13:57:49.438-07:00Introducing...DEATH VALLEY!Finally, I'm blogging about something other than THE MIGHTY. Not that there's anything wrong with blogging about The Mighty, is there?<br /><br />Anyway, there's an interview up today on Newsarama introducing my new creator-owned project, Death Valley. If you like old west Outlaws, Ninjas, or Old West Outlaws fighting Ninjas then this is definitely the comic for you.<br /><br />As you all know, smaller independent titles like Death Valley are often overlooked in favor of the larger selling titles. So I'd appreciate it if you'd remember this little book when placing your comic book orders. It's a good one, I think you'll like it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/comics/070917-DeathValley.html">http://www.newsarama.com/comics/070917-DeathValley.html</a>keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-59563051669862317752009-07-01T12:08:00.000-07:002009-07-01T12:17:36.079-07:00Mighty #6...plus Scoobysnacks!Friends, nobles, and countrymen--<br /><br />I come before you today--you, those stalwart men, women, and children who continue to read my blog in spite of the fact that I haven't updated it in far too long, to say thank you for checking back in. Now go out and buy The Mighty #6, on sale today, and watch the mystery of Alpha-One continue to grow. Is he good? Is he evil? Is he doing bad things for good reasons? Is he doing good things that appear, on the surface, to be bad? All these questions--and more--will be teased in front of your very eyes. Maybe some of them will be answered. Maybe you'll be left to come up with your own answers. Either way, hope you continue to enjoy the ride.<br /><br />And if you happen to be looking for something a little more straightforward, check out the latest issue of Scooby Doo, also on stands today, where I've written a story called "From Russia With Glove." I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out and I enjoy writing Scooby and the gang quite a bit. It's a nice way to cleanse the pallet, free from choking continuity and massive crossovers. Had my fill of those for a while and, while I miss the royalty checks, I don't miss the headaches.<br /><br />Thanks for checking in, enjoy the 4th, and let me know what you might think.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-42044926768152142482009-06-02T17:56:00.001-07:002009-06-02T18:05:26.321-07:00The Mighty #5As sucky of a blogger as I've evolved into being over the past few months, I'd be even suckier if I didn't mention that The Mighty #5 arrives in stores tomorrow, June 3rd, a day that will forever be remembered in history as MIGHTYDAY!<br /><br />When last we left off in the world of The Mighty, it looked an awful lot like Alpha-One caused a massive car accident and then, under cover of the ensuing fire and conflagration, kidnapped a young girl and left a dead body in her place. Did we really see what we thought we saw? Or did we interpret Alpha-One's actions the way we've wanted to since first meeting him? After all, people have been saying he's "off" all along. And if he really did do something so horrible, could there be a justifiable reason for it? Who's to say Alpha-One wasn't saving the world from that girl in the car. Maybe she's a Skrull, did anyone ever think of that? Huh???<br /><br />Only time will tell.<br /><br />#5 marks the debut of new series artist Chris Samnee, who is ridiculously awesome and talented. If you're a fan of artists from the Toth school, you're going to fall in love.<br /><br />#5 is also my personal favorite issue of the run to date (we've dialogued through #9 at this point). Which isn't to say that I don't like all the issues, because I've been really satisfied with everything up to this point. Just that #5 is when I really felt like we shifted into high gear. Here comes all the twists and turns, by all means enjoy the ride and let me know what you think.<br /><br />And remember the name Taylor Rhines, first mentioned in #1.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-58489302799842383632009-05-07T06:22:00.000-07:002009-05-07T06:26:44.762-07:00The Mighty #4Before I get started working this morning, I should probably point out that THE MIGHTY #4, America's favorite little comic that could, arrived in stores yesterday. Don't have my copies yet either, let's have a race to the comic shop!<br /><br />Some people are going to say that they saw the end of #4 coming a mile away, I'm sure. But just because you may have seen something happen doesn't mean you know why it happened. The direction of the book shifts pretty radically over the next four issues, then again over the course of the final four. So hang on tight and by all means, let us know what you think!<br /><br />Thanks!keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-8202451949115918852009-05-03T09:38:00.000-07:002009-05-03T09:46:26.426-07:00NevermoreOh, my poor, neglected blog...<br /><br />I have in my hands, at long last, a copy of Dean Koontz' NEVERMORE #1, written by yours truly with art by Andy Smith, which arrived in stores last Wednesday. The first issue is 30 pages (instead of the usual 22 ) based on an original premise and characters created by Dean Koontz.<br /><br />I think the first issue sets the stage pretty well for the series. First issues are always tough because there's so much stage setting to be done, it can leave little room for anything aside from pointing out who everyone is and what they want. I think we hit a nice balance by telling a complete story while still setting up the bigger picture.<br /><br />Great coloring job over Andy's lush visuals, too.<br /><br />I've got lots of blogging to catch up on, solicits for upcoming work to point out, Mighty thoughts to share etc. I should be back in the swing of updating fairly regularly again so if you're inclined, feel free to check back. And if you're a generous soul, try to find a copy of Nevermore #1.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-27908093439146315032009-03-31T21:04:00.000-07:002009-03-31T21:18:24.718-07:00Mighty #3I really should be sleeping but I need to unwind after a late night of work. So it seems like a good time to update my poorly neglected blog.<br /><br />I have it on good authority that The Mighty #3 arrives in stores tomorrow, April 1st, for the fine and discerning reader. Please check it out. I just proofread #6 and wrote the dialogue for #7 and, while I'm extremely biased, I really feel like we're on to something special here.<br /><br />I've also heard around the bend that the first issue of NEVERMORE arrived in stores last week. I haven't done much to promote this project, in spite of the fact that it's an original Dean Koontz concept and worth your time and attention, because I don't know much about when it's going to ship. I've inquired with the Dabels many times for those important little details because I'd like to pimp this book out. I'm actually having a great time writing it and I want people to read what I feel is a very good comic. But if I'm not in the loop, there's only so much I can do. I hope to get a copy or two of the first issue for myself soon. See if you can beat me to it.<br /><br />Going back to The Mighty, I never wrote up my Director's Cut notes on the second issue so, here you go.<br /><br />I found it interesting that many comments and reviews I read of the second issue pegged Alpha-One as evil. What did he do, how did he act that would be such a red flag? Everything he does can be accounted for on panel, or justified in his dialogue. I think people just like conspiracy theories.<br /><br />Is Alpha-One aloof or awkward? Sure. Have you ever met someone new and had trouble making conversation, or weren't quite ready to be yourself around them? Why should Alpha-One be any different? That's the angle Tomasi and I were playing with, the awkwardness that is sometimes inherent in making friends. Alpha-One is literally alone in the world, there's no one else like him. It stands to reason he'd have a hard time relating to someone new, or letting his guard down, or warming up immediately. Give him some time to let his personality come through before you jump to conclusions. Like I said before, lots of twists and turns to come. Enjoy the ride.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-6953392323261478672009-03-23T14:08:00.000-07:002009-03-23T14:18:57.601-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBYwWz2FilB1uljr-oDhww2zecZZsxM5d4FtIuNZn67lbypNhjSIWcF5L5gdI5DpKZWoti36-7UcfnfcGe91C1uN45iLBUjHCFXeK3fU7TOtoahap9L-EmcH06kl2lYV8HxlWc/s1600-h/MIGHTY-Cv5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316495580633415906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBYwWz2FilB1uljr-oDhww2zecZZsxM5d4FtIuNZn67lbypNhjSIWcF5L5gdI5DpKZWoti36-7UcfnfcGe91C1uN45iLBUjHCFXeK3fU7TOtoahap9L-EmcH06kl2lYV8HxlWc/s320/MIGHTY-Cv5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Haven't felt much like blogging lately. I think I'm currently falling under the category of not having much nice to say so I'm not saying much of anything. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I've kept busy but life has been a struggle since "leaving" Supergirl. After being promised for the past couple of months that something would be coming down the pike to replace the gig, I've now been told that won't be the case any time in the immediate future, that it just hasn't worked out the way that particular editor was hoping. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>That's comics for you. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>At least I can hold my head up knowing that I've always conducted myself with honesty and professionalism. Too many of my co-workers over the years can't look in the mirror and say the same. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Anyway, DC released their solicit information for the month of June so here's what's coming down the pike with The Mighty. We've got an amazing new artist stepping in to make the book shine, while Mr. Snejberg sticks around to provide the sequential storytelling. And if you recall, I mentioned in a previous post that the names Taylor Rhines and Dominic Deeds would return to play a roll? Well, here's where they pop up.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a onclick="flexPop(950,600)" href="http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/preview2.php?image=solicits/dccomics/200906/dcu/MIGHTY-Cv5.jpg" target="PopUp"></a>THE MIGHTY #5</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Written by Peter J. Tomasi & Keith Champagne</div><br /><div>Art by Chris Samnee</div><br /><div>Cover by Dave Johnson</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>After last issue’s shocking finale, Gabriel Cole finds himself faced with a terrifying new threat. And it’s the only menace on Earth that his ally Alpha One can’t help him vanquish! Writers Tomasi and Champagne welcome the stunning art of new series regular Chris Samnee (CHECKMATE) as the saga of THE MIGHTY reveals its true shape!On sale June 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Check it out!</div>keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-21465583139300441002009-03-16T14:17:00.001-07:002009-03-16T14:18:00.204-07:00What?What? I have a blog??!? Heck, I guess I should update it sometime. Good thing no one is reading it!keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-49473867524428578452009-03-03T10:40:00.001-08:002009-03-03T10:47:30.662-08:00First of all, whatever happened to The Gerb?<br /><br />Secondly, holy crap! The new Terminator movie looks 9 kinds of awesome. I had basically written the Terminator franchise off. Not to say that I don't enjoy the Sarah Connor Chronicles, I watch it once in a while, just that I thought the best days of the Terminator were far behind. But I gotta admit, the preview has me hoping...<br /><br />Thirdly, my friend and frequent collaborator Andy Smith has started a blog at www.andysmithart.blogspot.com. He's posting lots of art so by all means, check it out.<br /><br />Fourthly, I've been advised not to announce my new project yet so I will heed that advice.<br /><br />Fifthly, MIGHTY #2 arrives in stores tomorrow. Please let me know what you think in the comments section or via email. Also, if you encounter and online reviews, I'd appreciate it if you left links in the comments section so I can check 'em out when time permits.<br /><br />Sixthly, Pat Gleason is far too busy and important to play phone tag with me anymore. The loss of his long voicemail messages is my own personal Darkest Night.<br /><br />That is all. You are dismissed.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-61561940366053597512009-02-25T17:35:00.000-08:002009-02-25T17:51:10.808-08:00Something differentI have a small window of time coming open in my schedule in the near future, probably a week or two at most, and I've had something in the back of my mind for a while that I thought I'd give a try to. No, not dancing on tables...get your mind out of the gutter, Mr. Ninja!<br /><br />I've been thinking off and on for a couple of months about offering my services as a consultant for artists or writers trying to break into comics but looking for some professional insight and work advice before they submit their work to editors. A professional critiquer (is that a word?), if you will.<br /><br />Having written, pencilled, inked, and colored at different points in my career, and been working full time in this silly industry for sixteen years now, I feel I've got a little credibility backing me up. Keep in mind the old adage about opinions and assholes, though. I don't have all the answers but I do have strong opinions about what makes a good comic, from story on down to lettering. I've also got a lot of good survival tips when it comes to navigating what can be a backstabbing, two-faced, cutthroat business. My opinion certainly isn't the end all, be all of anything, but I figure maybe it's worth listening to.<br /><br />Or not, I guess we'll find out.<br /><br />So if you've got a pitch or script you're trying to get off the ground, some art samples you'd like to have critiqued, a comic you've produced and are wondering how to get it to a wider audience...and on and on, feel free to drop me an email at keithchampagne@gmail.com. I'm not sure what to charge for this kind of services, I need to ask around a bit with a few people I know who do this sort of thing, but I'm pretty sure no one will go bankrupt.<br /><br />Next time I blog, I'm going to announce a new project.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-76007580219411881992009-02-17T14:10:00.000-08:002009-02-17T14:14:23.802-08:00Back to The Mighty<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXdKcJ4HhpkzOT9UnHOeTbHhzcD0NnFpy3eNe69kQHtTJT1LXvlJznWeZ4hhbAKuk-jk1AkmgaOBj2ekopz3pn6iA3aHo9ycepAC0Xs3-kxYjywXgj2SonkKMVO9UgRgFI4Vh/s1600-h/mighty_cv4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXdKcJ4HhpkzOT9UnHOeTbHhzcD0NnFpy3eNe69kQHtTJT1LXvlJznWeZ4hhbAKuk-jk1AkmgaOBj2ekopz3pn6iA3aHo9ycepAC0Xs3-kxYjywXgj2SonkKMVO9UgRgFI4Vh/s320/mighty_cv4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303893053073255954" border="0" /></a><br />DC releases their solicitations to May this afternoon so, real quick, here's Mighty #4 with my little comments after the blurb...<br /><br /><strong>THE MIGHTY #4</strong><br /><br />Written by Peter J. Tomasi & Keith Champagne<br />Art by Peter Snejbjerg<br />Cover by Dave Johnson<br /><br />Fire on the horizon! Cole’s wife Janet is beginning to have deep misgivings about her husband’s trust in Alpha One – but where can she turn? You won't believe this issue's shocking finale, as the world of THE MIGHTY suddenly becomes deadly. And we're just getting started!<br />On sale May 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US<br /><br />Me again. See those words "SHOCKING FINALE," there? Well, the last page is where the larger picture of this story will suddenly slam into focus and the reader will get an idea of what they've actually been reading all along. Fasten them safety belts, here comes the ride!keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-89735145019109152132009-02-14T11:57:00.000-08:002009-02-14T12:02:11.872-08:00What? Not about The Mighty?I don't usually try to think too far ahead of LOST and figure out all the different mysteries of the show. I'm content to just follow along at its own pace and enjoy the answers as they come. But as I was driving yesterday, I came up with half a theory I thought I'd put out there.<br /><br />In the same way that John Locke has seemingly had to die to bring the Oceanic Six together and back to the island, what if Christian Shephard died to bring the original Lost crew to the island? I have no idea about the why of it but I like the cyclical nature of my theory.<br /><br />Feel free to discuss amongst yourselves.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-22709800814046906172009-02-10T17:21:00.001-08:002009-02-10T17:45:39.408-08:00Mighty commentsSettling back in from my two weeks of travel and glad to be safely ensconced at home base once more. I took a few minutes tonight to do a quick skim of different comic review sites (thanks to "The Husband" for tipping me off to the CBR review) to see how the Mighty #1 is faring and I'm happy to see that readers seem pleased with the first issue. Very happy.<br /><br />Last year, I did an online commentary track for the fourth issue of Arena and I thought I might try something similar for The Mighty, giving out my thoughts on each issue a week or so after it comes out. If you're already bored with reading about the book, have no fear! I'll blog about other boring things, too! I'm at least a two trick pony.<br /><br />First issues are tough because usually, they involve so much stage setting and introduction of characters, that getting to the meat of the actual story can be a bit tricky, a balancing act that Tomasi in particular is good at. I think we established the overall tone of the book well, along with hinting at some character background that will come into play in a big way, and most importantly, establishing the mystery aspect of the story. I think people were also surprised to see that Alpha-One, the superhero of the story, is at least starting out in a supporting roll and that the lead has gone to Gabriel Cole.<br /><br />Two names to keep fresh in the back of one's mind: Taylor Rhines and Dominic Deeds. Both are ex-captains of Section Omega who ended their tenure in very different ways, Rhines apparently going bugnuts crazy from the pressure while Deeds seems to have taken the Tom Clancy route with his retirement. Somewhere in the first five issues, these guys play into the story. It'll be helpful to remember them.<br /><br />One comment I saw in a couple of different reviews was that the book felt very familiar, with Alpha-One being an analogue to Superman, and the fact that we homaged a few comic book tropes (Jimmy Olsen's signal watch, the more-powerful-than-a-locomotive iconography) to set the stage. Obviously, these were deliberate choices as was Alpha-One not actually speaking throughout, establishing him as a presence more than a personality. Peter and I want you to be comfortable, to feel like you immediately know and-- more or less--understand this world from a lifetime of comic book reading. There are layers to be peeled back and twists and turns coming. Just because you might vaguely feel like you've seen it all before doesn't necessarily mean you really know what you're seeing.<br /><br />One other thing while I'm thinking of it. In our minds, PT and I wrote this series as chapters in a novel. Each issue is a different chapter in the overall story. It's paced a little differently than a regular comic as a result, another choice we deliberately made to serve the story better. I'd suggest if you like what you're reading, try to re-read the previous issue the night before you read the next one. If you're like me, you forget every detail of a comic you read in the four weeks it takes to get the next issue. I even sometimes forget the details of what I'm writing in the time between producing the next script. I've learned the hard way that a little refresher never hurts, that's all I'm saying.<br /><br />Catch you next time, thanks for reading.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-24491248190212005602009-02-01T06:52:00.000-08:002009-02-01T06:55:45.063-08:00Mighty #1A brief layover back in CT on my two week world tour.<br /><br />While I have a second, I wanted to ask everyone to please pick up a copy of Mighty #1, on sale this Wednesday. And let me know what you think in the comments section, by all means.<br /><br />I'm a little partial but I really feel that by the time the fourth or fifth issue of this book hits and the story is really rolling along, people will feel it's the best title DC is currently publishing.<br /><br />Let's find out if I'm right.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-32876735595019960862009-01-26T19:43:00.001-08:002009-01-26T19:55:55.302-08:00More MightyHmmmm...another post about THE MIGHTY. Noticing a trend here?<br /><br />There's another article up on Ain't It Cool News regarding America's favorite new comic book. I didn't have much to do with this one. Tomasi put it together, it's a script to pencils to inks to colors guide to how a comic is made, using The Mighty as an example. Check it out if you're interested, here's the linkage:<br /><br />http://www.aintitcool.com/node/39893<br /><br />After all these years of blogging (three!), I still don't know how to insert a live link. I'm pretty pathetic.<br /><br />In other news, I finished my last page of Supergirl #38 today, ending my professional obligation to the book. While I'm not happy with the way things have ended, I'm very proud of the run of work Jamal and I produced over the last few years, from Firestorm to Nightwing to Supergirl. Some artists I've worked with, it's a struggle to fit my style or sensibilities with theirs. Jamal's work always felt like a very natural fit with my style. But all good things come to and end eventually, even Big Poppa and I. So I'm shelving my pens and brushes to focus on writing full-time again. I've got a couple of new projects lined up with different companies and, I'm told, a third shaping up at DC. Let's see what the future brings.<br /><br />I'll be travelling the world the next couple of weeks so blogging will be even more sporadic than normal. Eventually, I'll end up at the New York Convention, at least the final day of the show. No idea what my signing schedule might be but maybe I'll catch you there.<br /><br />Take care. THanks for reading.keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-27740392313189961382009-01-19T15:59:00.000-08:002009-01-19T16:00:32.617-08:00Coming in April...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-tCU3NXJcvOXERG-erHKqEElaSX9lajxDRKJSZKXSca5T4CHYBWTgzGXLe-jJbDLNarXC7iSahroBdFP7i2mIpp-6Arjqaa6DHa-mfK0QA1wqdY2vec8vQVD8sFsvbKoKlwl/s1600-h/mighty_cv3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-tCU3NXJcvOXERG-erHKqEElaSX9lajxDRKJSZKXSca5T4CHYBWTgzGXLe-jJbDLNarXC7iSahroBdFP7i2mIpp-6Arjqaa6DHa-mfK0QA1wqdY2vec8vQVD8sFsvbKoKlwl/s320/mighty_cv3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293159026381178930" /></a><br />THE MIGHTY #3<br /><br />Written by Peter J. Tomasi & Keith Champagne<br />Art by Peter Snejbjerg<br />Cover by Dave Johnson<br /><br />Alpha One may be the most powerful being on the face of the planet, but emotionally, he’s vulnerable – and he needs a friend he can trust. His ally Gabriel Cole, who has just officially taken command of Section Omega, is becoming that friend. But neither man knows the danger they tempt by inviting each other into their homes. And what amazing secrets are hidden in Alpha One’s underground headquarters?<br />On sale April 1 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 USkeith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17863021.post-84453292481757956342009-01-15T18:15:00.000-08:002009-01-15T18:24:32.386-08:00Follow me to victoryHey. <br /><br />You. <br /><br />The one reading this post right now. Do you read my blog on a regular basis? Do you see that list of followers over to the left hand side of this entry? Do me a favor, join the club, and officially follow me. If I get enough people, I'm interested in starting a cult (I make GREAT kool-aid!!). We'd need a good name for our cult, a robust health and dental plan, and a large tract of land to commune on (hopefully somewhere warm). And we can do cool things like wear robes, debate Superman versus Thor, and get tax breaks from the government.<br /><br />But it all starts with you. I promise not to poison anyone or marry all the ladies (sorry ladies). I also promise to have movie nights every other weekend. So follow me to victory!keith champagnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04610586159446264017noreply@blogger.com4