*** UPDATED JANUARY 3rd, 2024 ***
Crave the newest nibble?
Chow down on some tasty morsels from the desk of Jay Magnum himself!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 20, 2022
Once again, we have a Kickstarter campaign funding RIGHT NOW for “Astral Vengeance“!
Come and join us in all the fun! You can also pick-up all 3 books in the “Astral Thrill3gy” as well!
The “Vengeance” Kickstarter will run through Friday, October 14th! DON’T MISS IT!
Click HERE or on the image below to visit the “Astral Vengeance” Kickstarter campaign!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 6, 2021
Hey there, folks! We have a Kickstarter campaign funding RIGHT NOW for “Astral Vengeance“!
Come and join us in all the fun! You can also pick-up all 3 books in the “Astral Thrill3gy” as well!
The “Vengeance” Kickstarter will run through Friday, October 15th! DON’T MISS IT!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 21, 2021
We’ve got an Indiegogo campaign funding RIGHT NOW for the “Astral Thrill3gy“!
Join me, and come pick-up all three books in the “Astral” trilogy!
The campaign will run through Friday, April 23rd! Don’t miss out!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 1, 2021
Come down and see me and Lauren Lee at Collective Con in Jacksonville from March 12-14, 2021!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 15, 2021
Join me at the DeLand Comics & Collectibles Show on January 17th, 2021!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 8, 2020
A hearty “THANK YOU” to everyone who supported us at the National Indie Excellence Awards!
You helped push Astral Evolution over the top!
See our official winner’s press release HERE!
Much more to come!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 9, 2020
To celebrate Astral Evolution winning the Independent Press Award (the SECOND year in a row that an Astral book has won!), I’d like to offer everyone who comes here to read my blog a FREE COPY of Astral Genesis, the original, award-winning epic graphic novel that started it all!
Just click on the link (or the image) below to receive your FREE 128-page, full-color Astral Genesis graphic novel!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
CLICK HERE to get the Astral Genesis Digital Edition FREE!
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 2, 2020
A big “THANKS” to everyone who supported us at the Independent Press Awards!
You helped push Astral Evolution over the top!
See our official winner’s press release HERE!
More to come!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 13, 2020
Thanks to all who came to visit with me and Lauren at Infinity Con in Lake City! It was great to meet you and chat with you!
SPECIAL THANKS to all those nice folks who purchased “Astral” books– ‘hope you are enjoying them!
Note: Collective Con in Jacksonville has been moved from its March dates to July 17-19 of this year.
We’ll still be there in July— and hope to see you there, as well!
In the meantime: Stay safe… and healthy!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 21, 2020
First: Happy New Year!
Sorry I haven’t been posting for a while– I was, unfortunately, down for while with the flu through the holidays.
Second, a big “Hello!” to all my friends I met at the DeLand Comics & Collectibles Show! ‘Hope you are enjoying your “Astral” books! It was great meeting you, talking with you, and hearing about your experiences, and how you liked the show!
Next-up is the rescheduled-from-September-2019 Space Coast Comic Con in Cocoa Beach, Florida, on the weekend of February 8th and 9th, 2020:
‘Hope to see you there!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 3, 2019
Hello– ‘just a quick note to let you know that, unfortunately, Space Coast Comic Con 2019 has been cancelled due to Hurricane Dorian— so I will no longer be exhibiting there.
I apologize to my friends and fans for the inconvenience– but I do understand the organizers’ reasons for cancelling the event– and I agree with them.
Next up, then, will be Ancient City Con in St. Augustine, Florida, from September 20th through September 22nd.
‘Hope to see you there!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 1, 2019
Well, I’ve just been informed that Readers’ Favorite has awarded “Astral Genesis” as a WINNER for outstanding illustration in their category of Graphic Novels and Comics.
What a terrific way to close-out the 2019 awards season! Kudos and congratulations to the entire “Astral” team, and especially the art team: Ariel Medel, Victor Ricardo Nava Corona, Juan Vlasco, Ander Zarate, and Erick Arciniega!
This year, we’ve racked-up awards from a total of five literary organizations– an AWESOME achievement– and we’re looking forward to another great year in 2020 with “Astral Evolution“!
In the meantime, you can catch me next weekend at Space Coast Comic Con in Cocoa Beach, and two weeks after that at Ancient City Comic Con in St. Augustine, FL.
‘Hope to see you there!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 3, 2019
‘Hope you’re enjoying the summer!
It’s back-to-school time for the kids, and back-to-convention time for me and Lauren!
Here’s where you can meet us in-person this month:
1. August 17th: Acme Comic Creator Con (Longwood, FL): We’ll be in the Acme Superstore!
2. August 18th: Jacksonville Comic and Toy Show (Jacksonville, FL): We’ll be in Artist Alley!
We also have two conventions coming up in September: Space Coast Comic Con and Ancient City Con.
‘Can’t wait to see you there– stop by and say ‘hi’!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 25, 2019
WOW! We got TWO MORE!
See the official Press Release here!
I’m always glad to see the hard work of our Astral Team of professional artists and storytellers receiving the recognition they deserve!
I am also extremely grateful to all of you– our friends, fans, backers, and patrons– for pledging and sharing and supporting us, and for spreading the word about “Astral” to your friends!
There’s no way Astral Genesis could have achieved this level of success without YOU!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 10, 2019
We WON!
Thanks to all of you for pledging and sharing and supporting us, and telling your friends!
This award is as much yours as it is ours!
See the official Press Release here!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 22, 2019
Thanks to everyone who came out to see me and Lauren at Collective Con 2019!
It was AWESOME to meet you and to talk with you! 🙂
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 3, 2019
Back from Infinity Con in Lake City, FL!
Let me give a real-quick “shout-out” to all of the nice folks I met at Infinity Con 2019 in Lake City, Florida!
Thank you for stopping by to chat– and a special thanks to everyone who picked up a copy of “Astral Genesis“– enjoy!
Lauren and I had a wonderful time getting to know you! Thanks for all the fun!
Next stop is Daytona Beach Comic Con on April 13th and 14th. See you there!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
February 3, 2019
*WHEW!* Happy New Year –AND– Happy Groundhog Day!
Sorry for not posting for a while, folks! Here’s what happened…
I took a little time away from our “Astral” projects in January to be with family after the death of my uncle– which, unfortunately, occurred suddenly and unexpectedly.
If you’ve been following me on my social media channels, you already know the story.
I’d like to thank everyone who offered kind words and support to me over the past couple of weeks. My uncle and I were close, so it’s been pretty hard, and as you can see I’m still “catching up”…
Nevertheless, as my uncle would say– “life goes on”– and so it’s time to start taking a look at how 2019 is shaping-up in terms of my schedule and convention appearances.
Thus far, below are the conventions I plan to attend this year, in 2019. ‘Hope to see you there!
[CLICK HERE to view my complete schedule of events for 2019]
March 2019
- Infinity Con (March 2-3; Lake City, FL)
April 2019
- Daytona Beach Comic Con (April 13-14; Daytona Beach, FL)
- Collective Con (April 19-21; Jacksonville, FL)
May 2019
- MegaCon Orlando (May 16-19; Orlando, FL)
August 2019
- Jacksonville Comic and Toy Show (August 18; Jacksonville, FL)
September 2019
- Ancient City Con (Sept. 20-22; St. Augustine, FL)
November 2019
- Daytona Beach Comic Con (date TBD; Daytona Beach, FL)
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Posted by Jay Magnum
November 14, 2018
Help us celebrate the launch of Pet Piranha’s new online store today on “Lila Day” (11-14)!
11-14 = li-lA = LILA = “LILA DAY”
Get FREE SHIPPING (US domestic) on all way-cool “Astral” stuff through Sunday, 11-18, with this discount code:
LAUNCHFREESHIP
Just click on the link below, or on the image of Lila!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 18, 2018
It’s that time of year again for an Astral Kickstarter Event!
Help us print the “Astral Genesis” sequel graphic novel, “Astral Evolution,” by clicking on the image below to visit our Kickstarter page and pledge for a book!
“Astral Genesis” is available there, as well, if you need to “catch up” on the sci-fi, action-adventure series!
Read a 30-page preview of “Astral Genesis“– and also a 15-page preview of “Astral Evolution” while you’re there!
My entire team and I thank you for your generous support!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 18, 2018
Hi, there!
Ever wondered what a ton of graphic novels (literally) looks like? See photo below!
Well… now you know!
The printed copies of “Astral Genesis” have just arrived at Casa de Magnum!
The printed books will be distributed first to Kickstarter backers and those who pre-ordered.
“Astral Genesis” goes on sale to the general public on September 29th!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 1, 2018
“Astral Genesis” has gone to print– so while we await the physical copies from our print vendor– I’ll tell you a little bit about what I’ve been doing lately:
About a month ago, I attended MegaCon and met up with “Die Kitty Die” co-creator and “Archie vs. Predator” artist, Fernando Ruiz (below)! It was awesome to chat with Fernando– and he even did a “Lila” sketch for me!
On the project front, I’ve also been working hard with the art team on the “Genesis” sequel, “Astral Evolution”. That book is fully-scripted, and we’re nearing the halfway mark on the artwork!
I’m also in the process of writing the script for the threequel, “Astral Alliance“– and I expect to be finishing-up the scripting over this summer, ahead of our planned Kickstarter campaign for “Astral Evolution“.
More exciting “Astral” news to come throughout this summer, so stay tuned!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 15, 2018
HUGE news today, folks:
The book is done!
“Astral Genesis“– the first entry in the “Astral” series of sci-fi, action-adventure graphic novels– is now complete!
…and an adventure to create an original graphic novel, which officially began (for me) in the summer of 2014, has ended with great success!
The Digital Edition will be available to download very soon!
THANKS!
I’d like to take just a moment to thank the art team, Ariel Medel, Victor Ricardo Nava Corona, Ander Zarate, and Erick Arciniega, for doing such an awesome job on the book’s artwork.
In addition, I’d like to thank the team at Visionary Comics, C. Edward Sellner, Michael Munshaw, Brian Augustyn, and Chrissie Flury, who helped manage the art, and the scripting and editing process.
I’d also like to thank our letterer and layout master, Jacob Bascle, for expertly putting the whole thing together.
Many thanks, as well, to our variant-cover artists, Bill McKay, Bill Walko, Garth Graham, and Terry Parr, for their exceptional cover-art contributions.
But most importantly, thanks to YOU! Whether you pledged the Kickstarter campaign, pre-ordered a book, shared “Astral” on social media and/or with your friends, or simply provided us your support and encouragement– my team and I would never have been able to achieve this great success without you!
We did it together!
To pre-order a copy of “Astral Genesis” and get more of my behind-the-scenes “Astral” action/sci-fi graphic novel updates please subscribe:
Click here to pre order and get my updates through “Astral Connections”
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 2, 2018
Hello, everyone!
Just wanted to give a big “THANKS” to all the nice folks who stopped by and visited the Pet Piranha table at Collective Con in Jacksonville!
Lauren and I had great time meeting all of you and talking about our projects!
Do stay in touch– and we’ll see you at more comic cons throughout this year!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 23, 2018
Hey, there– and thanks to everyone who stopped by the Pet Piranha table at Collective Con today in Jacksonville!
Lauren Lee and I enjoyed meeting and talking with every one of you!
For those of you who pre-ordered copies of Astral Genesis, today, a big THANKS from us!
For anyone who hasn’t had a chance to check out the graphic novel yet, you can read a FREE preview by returning to the Pet Piranha home page and clicking on that big red button under the horizontal scrolling images.
There’s still two more days of Collective Con to go, so be sure and stop back by the Pet Piranha table in Artist Alley (#40) and say, “hi”– we love to chat about our shared love of comics.
Lauren and I will have some exciting special offers going on, too– so that’s one more incentive to drop by and “feed the piranha!”
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 28, 2018
Hi, and thanks for stopping by!
In today’s blog post, I thought I would talk a little bit about the process I use to write graphic novel scripts, like “Astral Evolution” (the sequel to the epic “Astral Genesis“) coming soon!
So– if you dare– read through the steps below. If you’re a writer, too, you may learn something new!
As with anything else in life, your own mileage using any or all of these steps may vary. If you know of a step or technique I haven’t thought of, send me an email and let me know!
jaymagnum@petpiranhaentertainment.com
As writers, we should always be striving to make improvements– it’s a craft in which we’re always constantly learning!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
Jay Magnum: How I Write a Graphic Novel Script
1. Create a very-high-level outline (only the major events in the story)
2. Break-down the high-level outline into a low-level outline of each individual scene I think I’ll need
3. Organize the low-level outline into the following sections:
A. Prolog (if applicable)
B. Act I
C. Act II
D. Act III
E. Epilog (if applicable)
4. Check my story structure vs. the “Freytag Pyramid” (and adjust, if necessary) to be sure I have proper:
A. Exposition
B. Rising Action
C. Climax
D. Falling Action
E. Denouement
5. Assign my “best guess” estimated page counts for each scene
6. Tally my page count and see how close I am to my page limit
* If under, I know I have more “room to play” with the scenes
* If over, I know I need to look for ways to trim or cut some scenes
7. Write a VERY BRIEF synopsis for each scene to identify the key events happening in it, which helps me understand how it directly contributes to the plot (i.e., moving the story forward)– this is also usually where I can determine the *theme* of the story, if I haven’t already done so
8. After writing the synopses, if I find scenes which don’t directly contribute to the plot or move the story forward (or tie straight into the theme), I cut them
9. I start writing the script from the beginning, usually crafting the dialog first and then breaking it up into pages and then panels (note: I try hard not to go higher than 4 panels per page, unless there is a really good reason for it; I also look for opportunities to have as many splash pages and double-page spreads as possible– your artist will love you for that!)
10. If I get writer’s block at any point, I’ll skip around and write my favorite scenes (or the “fun” scenes) first, which helps me get ideas about how to crack the harder scenes
11. If I still have writer’s block, I’ll pick an extremely patient friend or relative with whom to “talk it through” and “bounce ideas around”– which mostly consists of me blathering so much that sometimes that’s all it takes to solve the problem
12. As I’m writing the scenes, I use the old “screenplay tip” for framing them: Get into the scene as late as possible, and get out as early as you can (this also helps save page count)
13. Also, as I go, keep a running tally of the page count to be sure I’m not tracking to a number over the limit (if I am, this tells me that I should look for more ways to tighten the script, and/or make additional cuts)
14. After I finish, I tally the page count– and if I am under, I go back and increase the size of the panels, spreading them across more pages, add splash pages and/or double-page spreads to the coolest “visual scenes” in order to give the artist as much room to work with as possible– WITHOUT adding additional dialog!
15. Check:
* All of my story threads start at the beginning and follow through cleanly to the end
* All of my setups have appropriate payoffs (don’t want setups without payoffs, or payoffs without setups– usually crops-up during cutting!)
* There are no broken story elements, plot-holes, or “forgotten characters” (fix/clean-up, if necessary)
16. Go back and strengthen (as much as possible) the dramatic setups toward the beginning/middle and emotional payoffs toward the end
17. Revise, revise, revise…
18. Get as many people within my “inner circle” of trusted friends and relatives as possible to read the script and provide “meaningful and actionable feedback” (this is specific and purposeful criticism which I can use to fix problems they may have identified, that I somehow missed)
19. Revise, some more!
20. Turn the script over to my editor (you should *always* have one to check-and-balance your script!)
21. Yup, you guessed it: More revisions! Yay!!! 🙂
22. Turn the script over to the art team without being able to shake that little nagging feeling that it’s still not *quite* perfect… but trusting that it’s as perfect as I can make it at the time
23. Sleep for about two days straight…
24. Wake up and realize that “one thing” I forgot to “tweak”– and contact the art team, telling them I have “one last revision” to make! …to which they usually reply, “Really, Jay? Again???”
25. The final step in the process happens AS THE ARTWORK FOR THE GRAPHIC NOVEL IS BEING CREATED: I’m always looking at the artwork that comes in from the artist and then “tweaking” the dialog or scene for absolute optimal fit with the artwork (sometimes I even find that because I am working with such a great artist, I can actually *drop* some dialog because the art makes it “self-explanatory”– which the artist *loves* since that results in less speech balloons covering up his beautiful art!)
BONUS STEP (if I have money that week): Pop the cork on a bottle of nice champagne– ’cause it’s DONE!!! 🙂
If you’ve made it this far, I congratulate you– You have the perseverance it takes to be a writer! Good for you! 😉
If you’ve enjoyed reading this, I encourage you to get more of my behind-the-scenes “Astral” action/sci-fi graphic novel updates here:
Click here to get my updates through “Astral Connections”
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 1, 2018
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Just a quick post today to say “happy new year” and wish you the best for 2018!
I’ve been working hard over the December holiday break overseeing the final phase of the interior pages for Astral Genesis — the lettering — which is about halfway done.
Once lettering is complete, we’ll package the book and shortly thereafter digital copies will be available, with printed physical copies arriving a few months after that.
Stay tuned here for more updates. I’ll keep you posted on our progress. We’re nearly done!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
November 12, 2017
Greetings, everyone!
‘Thought I’d write a short post to tell you that the “Astral Genesis Kickstarter Event” was a HUGE success!
We raised over double our funding goal for the printing of “Astral Genesis” physical books!
A big THANKS to all the people who backed us, and/or shared word about the campaign on social media!
We couldn’t have done it without YOU!
The team and I are now hard at work wrapping up work on the book– so I’ll have more news to share about that soon.
Stay tuned right here at Pet Piranha— great things are coming!
Your friend & follow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 19, 2017
Hey, guys…
The “Astral Genesis Kickstarter Event” just went LIVE!
Play the video below and then visit Kickstarter to read a preview of “Astral Genesis” and pledge for a book!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 4, 2017
Hello Everyone,
I know it’s been awhile since I last posted here– but trust me, it’s because I’ve been so busy working to wrap interior art on Astral Genesis and prepare for the upcoming September “Astral Genesis Kickstarter Event“.
At this point, I am expecting that we’ll be launching the Kickstarter campaign toward the middle of the month– so stay tuned right here to this channel for additional details.
We’ve got some great “swag” items planned for you, such as: Bookmarks, stickers, magnets, posters, trading cards, T-shirts, and more!
I’ll be sure to let you know when the campaign launches!
Thanks again for your continued interest and support!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 23, 2017
Hey guys…
The official Astral Genesis Kickstarter Event launches next month, in September!
Don’t miss this chance to be a part of history!
To get a sneak peek at some of the exclusive Kickstarter rewards and other campaign materials, become an “Astralite” now and get my special fan updates through Astral Connections!
…then stick around here on my blog for more news!
I’ll be announcing the exact start date for the Astral Genesis Kickstarter Event in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned!!!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 30, 2017
Friends and fans:
HUGE news this morning:
I just received word that Ariel Medel has completed interior-page pencils for Astral Genesis!
Ariel’s artwork is truly AWESOME, and he continues to impress us– and pleasantly surprise us– with his ingenious layouts and designs!
With only inks and colors to go, we expect to be wrapping interior art soon! Exciting times!
Be sure to subscribe to “Astral Connections” if you’d like to receive my exclusive updates on the graphic novel project!
Thanks for your support!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 17, 2017
Hello, everyone!
BIG news today:
We are at 90% on interior artwork for Astral Genesis!
Thanks to Ariel Medel and the art team, we’ll be wrapping interior art soon!
If you haven’t subscribed to “Astral Connections” to get my exclusive updates on the project, there’s never a better time!
Stay tuned right here in the coming weeks– there’s lot’s more exciting news to come!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 3, 2017
Welcome back, friends!
See below for a “taste” of Astral Genesis in Spanish!
We’re doing a bit of “test marketing” to gauge whether a Spanish-language version of the sci-fi/action graphic novel would be feasible to produce and/or print.
Enjoy this rare and interesting variation on one of our promo ads!
Your friend & fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
June 23, 2017
New promo art below! Enjoy!
Thanks to Ariel Medel, Victor Ricardo Nava Corona, and Erick Arciniega!
Ah… I LOVE the classics!
Once upon a time…
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
June 17, 2017
Summer fun!
Lately, I’ve been busy working on some alternate cover designs for Astral Genesis, my friends! Very cool stuff!
They’ll be offered in limited quantities once the graphic novel goes to press this coming Autumn.
If you’d like to check them out, subscribe to “Astral Connections” — I’ll be showing them off there in my next couple of project updates!
We’re continuing down the “home stretch” on the interior artwork, as well. I will let you know right here when we reach the next milestone.
Until then, here’s a pre-colors illustration to whet your appetite for the book!
Artwork by Ariel Medel! Inks by Victor Ricardo Nava Corona!
Keep on enjoying your summer– and I’ll see you down at the local comics shop!
Your friend and fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 28, 2017
We’ve got merch!
‘Just got a brand-new shipment of posters, bookmarks and T-shirts in (see pix below)!
Click here to check ’em out on eBay!
Your friend and fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 28, 2017
Happy Memorial Day weekend, folks!
Just a quick update before we all take a break for the holiday on Monday:
Wow– Ariel Medel is quickly closing in on the 90% mark for interior pencils of Astral Genesis!
We are getting there, folks– it won’t be long now!
As we approach the end of interior artwork, I’m already gearing-up for post-production and pre-press. After that, YOU can be part of the action by helping us get Astral Genesis into print and grab some awesome “goodies” along the way during our September Kickstarter event!
If you haven’t already subscribed to “Astral Connections” to get my detailed updates, it’s not too late! I’ll share with you some exclusive behind-the-scenes art and a closer look at some of our other special features (such as alternate covers) along the way!
In the meantime, my fellow project team members and I wish you a fun and safe holiday weekend!
I’ll be back again with more updates soon!
Your friend and fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
May 8, 2017
Hi Everyone,
It’s been a busy week!
Not only did we have a string of special days (Star Wars Day, Cinco de Mayo, and Free Comic Book Day) all in a row, but I’ve also been working tirelessly on Astral Genesis.
‘Hope you were able to get down to your local comic book shop to celebrate FCBD and get your freebies. I picked up 2000 A.D., Star Trek, and Underdog, myself!
Work on the graphic novel continues, and at this point I’m excited to tell you that our fantastic artist, Ariel Medel, has less than twenty pages to go to finish-out the pencils!
Victor and Erick will finish close behind on the inks and colors within weeks after that, and then we’ll move into post-production when I can start putting the book together.
If you’d like to follow all of the action as it happens and get exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes news on the production, be sure to subscribe to “Astral Connections”.
I’ll be back with more news before we into the extended Memorial day holiday weekend at the end of this month.
Until then, happy reading!
Your friend and fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 24, 2017
Thanks for a wonderful and engaging Daytona Beach Comic Con, everyone!
In-between hanging out with my favorite comic-book shop owner, Cliff Weikel, I also had time to chat with the legendary DC and Marvel inker, John Beatty, as well as local north Florida anime artist, Jade Woodruff.
In Astral Genesis project news, interior-art penciler, Ariel Medel, crossed the 75% mark on page count (92 out of 120)!
The sci-fi/action graphic novel will be complete before you know it!
And, make sure you subscribe to “Astral Connections” so that you can get behind-the-scenes project updates and view exclusive artwork from Astral Genesis!
Your friend and fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 12, 2017
Who’s up for T-shirts?
‘Just got a new batch of both “Astral” and “Pet Piranha” logoed T-shirts in the mail!
“Astral” shown in black and navy blue (white and lilac also available).
“Pet Piranha” shown in white (black also available).
I’ve have some of these shirts at my upcoming comic cons, but if you can’t make it and still would like to get a shirt please send me an email with your desired size and color at:
jaymagnum@petpiranhaentertainment.com
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
April 3, 2017
Hi, everybody.
Still cranking away at producing interior art for our sci-fi/action-adventure graphic novel, Astral Genesis.
We’re making great progress, and will be passing the 75% milestone very soon.
Next up, I will be at Daytona Beach Comic Con on Sunday, April 23rd.
‘Hope to see you there!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 27, 2017
Thanks for a wonderful Collective Con, everyone!
I had a great time seeing y’all!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 25, 2017
Hey, guys!
I was over at Collective Con yesterday (Friday) and I’m going to be there most of the day Saturday.
‘Hope to see you there!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 16, 2017
Welcome everyone!
I’ve succumbed to the social media game that’s going around right now to pick your favorite movie for every year in which you’ve been alive.
I must admit, this task was more difficult than I originally thought!
…and, my list “dates” me! LOL
1982 was– by far– the hardest! I mean, Blade Runner, E.T., Star Trek II, Poltergeist, The Thing… I ultimately went with “Blade Runner”– but how do you pick?
Check my list below…
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
1972 – Conquest of the Planet of the Apes
1973 – Soylent Green
1974 – Young Frankenstein
1975 – Jaws
1976 – Rocky
1977 – Star Wars
1978 – Superman
1979 – Alien
1980 – The Empire Strikes Back
1981 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
1982 – Blade Runner
1983 – Return of the Jedi
1984 – Ghostbusters
1985 – Back to the Future
1986 – Aliens
1987 – RoboCop
1988 – Die Hard
1989 – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
1990 – Total Recall
1991 – Terminator 2: Judgment Day
1992 – Unforgiven
1993 – Jurassic Park
1994 – True Lies
1995 – Die Hard with a Vengeance
1996 – Independence Day
1997 – Men in Black
1998 – Armageddon
1999 – The Matrix
2000 – X-Men
2001 – The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
2002 – Minority Report
2003 – X2
2004 – The Day After Tomorrow
2005 – Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
2006 – Casino Royale
2007 – Transformers
2008 – The Dark Knight
2009 – Avatar
2010 – Inception
2011 – Super 8
2012 – Skyfall
2013 – Pacific Rim
2014 – Guardians of the Galaxy
2015 – Mad Max: Fury Road
2016 – Star Trek Beyond
2017.25 – Logan (*subject to change)
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Posted by Jay Magnum
March 5, 2017
Big news, today, folks!
The team and I over here at Pet Piranha are officially announcing a crowdfunding campaign for the printing of our sci-fi/action-adventure graphic novel, Astral Genesis, via Kickstarter!
Although an exact start date for the Kickstarter campaign has yet to be set, I expect it to coincide with the book’s release around six months from now, in September or October of this year (if anything happens in the meantime which changes that timeframe, I’ll let you know).
This is major, guys– because it means those of you who pledge our campaign via Kickstarter will be eligible to receive some awesome rewards, including some exclusive ones that will only be offered to backers through Kickstarter!
To get a sneak peek at some of the exclusive Kickstarter rewards and other campaign materials, become an “Astralite” and get my special fan updates through Astral Connections!
Then stick around here on my blog for more news!
Thanks for visiting– and, as always, we appreciate your support!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
February 26, 2017
Hello, everyone. Sad day, today…
Devastated by the recent loss of Bill Paxton.
He’ll forever be “Hudson” (in Aliens) to me!
“We’re on an express elevator to hell, go-in’ DOWN!”
Damn! I miss you already, Bill… Thanks for all the laughs!
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
February 13, 2017
Hey, guys!
There are some more exciting things going on this week over here at Pet Piranha!
A cool new promotional item for the upcoming graphic novel is here!
Astral Genesis bookmarks have arrived!
The character design on the bookmark (“Lila“) is by Ariel Medel, and colors are by Ander Zarate.
I think these came out looking pretty awesome!
You can get one here!
We also have a new 11″ x 17″ promotional poster design. Take a look at it in the News Bites section here:
“Astral Genesis” New Promotional Poster Design
More to come!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 29, 2017
Hey, guys!
New Astral Genesis interior art has been posted on the projects page today!
Pencils are by Ariel Medel, inked by Victor Ricardo Nava Corona, and colored by Ander Zarate.
Awesome work by those guys!
Check it out!!!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 22, 2017
Hello, folks!
Sorry I haven’t posted in a while– but it’s been pretty busy over here at Pet Piranha in these first few weeks of the new year.
We’ve been making great progress!
Here’s the latest status on Astral Genesis interior art phase:
- Out of a total of 120 interior pages, artist Ariel Medel is quickly approaching the 3/4 (75%) mark on pencils.
- Victor Ricardo Nava Corona is nearing the halfway point with inks.
- Colors are well underway, as I just received a new batch of colored pages from Ander Zarate.
- Jacob Bascle’s lettering can start once I receive around a dozen (or so) more colored pages.
Thus far, the project is still tracking well to an Autumn 2017 release date, which I should be able to narrow down further in a few months.
In the meantime, get all of the insider information on the graphic novel project by signing up to receive exclusive project updates from me on Astral Connections!
Subscribe to Astral Connections here
We’ll have some more Astral Genesis interior art posted here on the website soon.
The art team under our art director, Michael Munshaw, is doing an awesome job– I can’t wait to show you our latest stuff!
I’ll be back here with more news and updates later!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
January 1, 2017
Happy New Year, everyone!
Jay here, wishing you a safe and prosperous 2017.
Personally, I’m excited– because this is the year we launch Astral Genesis!
The launch of the graphic novel– scheduled for Autumn– represents the culmination of nearly five years’ worth of diligent development effort and dedicated production work.
I’m happy to have you along for this journey, as well. I’m the kind of guys who enjoys a personal connection with his audience and fans, so if you haven’t yet signed up to receive exclusive project updates from me, please feel free to do so here:
Subscribe to Astral Connections
I hope 2017 turns out to be a wonderful year for you, and I thank you again for your support– we couldn’t do this without YOU!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
December 27, 2016
Very sorry to receive word today of Carrie Fisher’s passing.
I– along with my fellow creators in the sci-fi community– were all at some point, in some way, touched and inspired by Star Wars.
Carrie, you will be missed…
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
December 19, 2016
Hello Everybody!
Big news today: We’re 50% complete with interior pencils on Astral Genesis!
This is an important milestone, and I can’t thank our art team over at Visionary Comics enough– especially Astral Genesis artist, Ariel Medel, who has brought immense enthusiasm to the project, and has worked tirelessly to produce such wonderful artwork for us. It is truly a privilege to be working with him!
I’m excited that 2017 will be here soon, because in that year we’ll complete the artwork and launch the graphic novel– allowing everyone to see and appreciate all of the hard work that has been done. 2017 will truly be a landmark year for Pet Piranha Entertainment and the entire Astral Genesis team!
Last, with the holidays rapidly approaching, I’d like to take a moment to wish you and your families and friends a safe and joyous season filled with cheer!
I’ll be right back here again soon with more project news and updates!
To enjoy exclusive project content, subscribe here!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
December 4, 2016
Greetings, everyone!
The entire Pet Piranha Team hopes your holiday season is coming along swimmingly!
Great news:
With the release of the first “official” Astral Genesis teaser promo poster promo poster (below), I’m also going to be releasing some additional details about the characters and story of the action/sci-fi graphic novel soon.
The general public will get these new details next year, in 2017– but if you subscribe to our Astral Genesis project updates, you’ll begin receiving it this month, and be ahead of everyone else!
SUBSCRIBE HERE!
I’ll be back here on my blog with a few more juicy tidbits before we break for the holidays.
In the meantime, be sure to check out my FREE guide on creating your own comics!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
November 30, 2016
Hi Guys,
Just got the artwork in for the first Astral Genesis 11×17 teaser promo poster.
It’s so awesome I’m just going to let the art speak for itself! Enjoy!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
November 8, 2016
Hello, everyone!
Great news!
Thanks to the art team, I have awesome new Astral Genesis art posted today on the projects page. Check it out!
If you like what you see, subscribe to “Astral Connections” and receive behind-the-scenes project updates and exclusive artwork from the upcoming graphic novel.
Astral Genesis is really coming together now– and I can’t wait to share some of this great new material with you!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 29, 2016
Hi, folks!
The big news today is that there’s more cool Astral Genesis art posted on the projects page. Take a look!
We have more colored pages now, and we’re approaching the halfway mark on pencils.
Exciting times– stay tuned right here for more!
You can also subscribe to receive exclusive project updates.
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 16, 2016
Greetings, everybody!
I just added lots more great Astral Genesis design and development materials for our VIP friends and fans to explore!
To see all of the great new stuff, subscribe to “Astral Connections” by clicking on the link below. The subscription is FREE!
CLICK ON THIS LINK TO SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Thanks, and I look forward to showing you even more exclusive behind-the-scenes production items in the coming weeks!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 12, 2016
Hello, friends and fans!
I promised you more comics-related news this week, and I’m back here today to deliver!
But first, I have a little confession to make:
As things have been going very smoothly on the Astral Genesis graphic novel production over the past couple of months, I broke away from the project for a little while to write a book!
This is a book that I’ve been wanting to write for quite some time now, and with everything going so smoothly on Astral Genesis and not requiring a lot of my time (which is a real testament to the excellent job that Visionary Comics and Ariel Medel are doing on the production), it seemed an opportune time to jump in and do it.
The book I’ve written is intended for comic book fans who want to get started making their own comic books— although I think seasoned creators could benefit from some of the reference material that is included, as well.
The best part about the whole thing is that I’m going to give YOU a copy of my book for FREE!
I’ll tell you how in just a minute…
In other news, I’m now offering exclusive updates and VIP access to the production and development of Astral Genesis through subscriptions to “Astral Connections”, our brand-new information channel for fans of Pet Piranha and the Astral series of graphic novels!
When you subscribe, you’ll receive informative behind-the-scenes reports, VIP access to exclusive project materials, private invitations to promotional events– and even tips and pointers for creating your own comics, if you’re a creator.
Subscriptions to “Astral Connections” are also FREE!
CLICK ON THIS LINK TO SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Thanks for your support!
Comics creators, I said you I’d tell you how to get my new book FREE, so here it is:
Just click on the image or the link below, follow the instructions and within a few minutes you’ll be reading about how to make your own comic book!
To get Jay’s book “Make YOUR Comic NOW!” click this link!
Please note that the electronic delivery service we’re using for the book is new, so please email me at the address below if you have any trouble, and can’t get the book. Thanks!
jaymagnum@petpiranhaentertainment.com
Enjoy, and please do let me know what you think of my book. Comments, questions, and suggestions for improvement are welcome!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 8, 2016
Thanks to all of those wishing us well!
Hurricane Matthew has now passed Jacksonville leaving mostly just debris and minor damage though we do have a few trees down and a couple of cars crushed throughout town.
No reports of any storm-related deaths in this area, thankfully– however, millions of Florida residents are still without power and cell service. Utility crews are working around the clock to restore the infrastructure, though!
I’ll have some more comics-related news for you early next week. Promise!
Thank you for your support through this tough time!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
October 7, 2016
Hello, and thanks for visiting!
For those who may not be following the weather news, Hurricane Matthew is forecast to swoop in close to my hometown of Jacksonville, Florida in a few hours.
We’re already experiencing some hurricane-force wind gusts– and I’m not sure how long the power will stay on, so that’s why I’m posting now. LOL!
I’ve got my hurricane supplies and I’m in a safe place right now, so I’ll probably be OK.
In comics-related news, I’m working on a couple of things for those of you who are (or want to be) creators of comic books and/or graphic novels– based on some of my experiences developing the Astral Genesis graphic novel over the past several years.
I’ve been slightly delayed getting that stuff ready due to preparing for the hurricane, but I should have it posted here on the Pet Piranha website sometime this coming week– so please do check back for that.
In the meantime, stay safe!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 28, 2016
Greetings, everyone!
Quick Astral Genesis progress update today:
Ariel Medel and Victor Nava are back from La Mole ComicCon in Mexico City, and they’re hard at work cranking out more interior pages for the graphic novel.
The quality of the work they’re producing is truly outstanding, and I think you’ll really love it!
I’ll have more Astral Genesis artwork and some other news posted here soon, so check back in a bit!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 16, 2016
Happy Friday, folks!
As promised, new Astral Genesis interior art is UP today on the project page and the home page scrollers.
The new page is a great space-exterior shot by Ariel Medel, Victor Nava, and Ander Zarate, showing us a little more of the doomed Venture mission.
Enjoy!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 14, 2016
Hello everybody!
Jay here. I’m pleased to report that we’re nearly one third of the way complete with interior-art illustrations!
To that end, I’ll be sharing some more Astral Genesis art with you right here on the website this coming Friday, September 16th.
Stay tuned!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
September 2, 2016
Hey guys!
We were fortunate enough to be able to get Bill Walko and C.B. Zane to do some Astral Genesis promo art for us to use in the upcoming marketing campaign!
See the official Pet Piranha press release in the News Bites section of the website for additional details!
More news and further Astral Genesis interior art to come!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 25, 2016
Hello, everyone!
I’m super-excited to tell you that our project artist, Ariel Medel, has now completed pencils for 30 pages of Astral Genesis — that’s fully 25% of the 120-page total!
See the “official” Pet Piranha press release for this important milestone in our News Bites section.
More to come!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 22, 2016
Hi, Everybody!
More Astral Genesis interior art is up today on the project page!
This new art is from the timeframe in which most of the story takes place, ten years after disaster struck the final mission of the space shuttle Venture, commanded by Jonahan DeVane.
Now retired from NASA, having suffered permanent injuries during the mission, bad-boy DeVane is in trouble again!
Enjoy!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
August 7, 2016
Hello there, folks!
Just a quick update today:
Things over here at Pet Piranha have been very busy in the last month, since we released the first interior art of Astral Genesis.
Now, as summer begins drawing to a close Ariel Medel is still working hard, cranking out more pencils for the interior pages.
We’re also inked on nearly all of the penciled pages, thanks to Victor Nava— and of the inked pages we’re about halfway done with colors by Ander Zarate.
Lettering hasn’t yet started, mainly because I’m still working out the finer points of the Astral language. The “Astroglyph” symbols have been designed, but the vocabulary and syntax of the language remain to be completed. What’s cool is that when I’m done, the Astral language will not only be writable, but also speakable! How’s that for realism?
More good news is that if we can keep up this pace, all artwork for the graphic novel should be complete by sometime next summer– which means the book could be in your hands perhaps as soon as the end of next summer, if not before.
Stay tuned right here on the Pet Piranha website, where we’ll be tracking the milestones on our way to the completed book– and I’ll also be releasing some additional interior-page artwork as we progress, to whet your appetite for the book’s official launch next year in 2017!
Exciting times!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 22, 2016
We’ve been featured by the Visionary Comics team!
Read about Astral Genesis and other great upcoming projects at Visionary Comics in Weekly Visions 7.21.16!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 21, 2016
Commemorating the very day that Neil Armstrong first set foot on the moon in 1969, it’s my great pleasure to share with you the first Astral Genesis artwork and story details. Enjoy!
Special thanks to Ariel Medel and the entire Visionary Creative Services art team for their truly spectacular work!
Much more to come, as we continue counting down to the release of the original sci-fi/action-adventure graphic novel next summer!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 20, 2016
Greetings, everyone!
On the eve of our first Astral Genesis artwork unveiling, I can’t say enough good things about our wonderfully-talented artist, Ariel Medel, without whom this project simply would not have been possible.
From designs to covers to the interior artwork, itself, Ariel has been instrumental in providing magnificent, striking, eye-catching imagery for the action-packed sci-fi graphic novel.
Perfectly complementing Ariel’s awesome pencil work, Juan Velasco has provided superb inks for the covers and Victor Ricardo Nava is doing a terrific job inking the interior pages.
Last– but certainly not least– the colors of Ander Zarate are bringing the “Astral Universe” to life in a gorgeous array of deep, rich and beautiful tones.
And I would be remiss if I did not also recognize the dedication of C. Edward Sellner, Michael Munshaw, and Brian Augustyn, the leadership team over at our studio partner Visionary Creative Services LLC, for their devoted and highly-professional efforts in coordinating this massive project.
Tune in tomorrow to the Pet Piranha Entertainment website… as the adventure begins!
T-minus 01 day to LIFTOFF!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 15, 2016
Hello, folks!
Quick sidebar before the first art for Astral Genesis drops next week:
As some of you who have been coming here for a while already know, I occasionally share my opinions on the great sci-fi and action franchises in film, comics, etc. That’s because, even though I’m the creator of a sci-fi/action franchise, I’m also a fan– just like you!
If anything, the least one can say about this new entry in the venerable Ghostbusters franchise (which opens tonight) is that it has been… divisive. So much so, that at this year’s MegaCon, I asked one of the uber-fan Ghostbusters (who was dressed in a very-well-done Ghostbusters uniform complete with proton pack) what he thought of the upcoming new movie. His response echoed what I’d been hearing from Ghostbusters fans all that weekend: “Meh.” Consequently, many of you have no doubt been asking yourselves what you should do about it. How does it fit in with the other films in the series? Does it fit in with the other films in the series, at all? I have some thoughts on that. Read on!
First, a little background about my own Ghostbusters viewing history: I was old enough to have seen both the megahit Ghostbusters in 1984, and it’s 1989 sequel, Ghostbusters 2, in theatres during their original runs. For me, Ghostbusters in 1984 was a groundbreaking, genre-redefining experience of awesomeness. I wouldn’t change a thing! Ghostbusters 2 was essentially “Ghostbusters lite”, which recycled the plot points of the original film, didn’t break any new ground, and dragged in some spots with anemic pacing– but consistently offered the same style of humor from the original, and ended up a very enjoyable package, overall. Ghostbusters 2 wasn’t perfect, and personally I think if some of the scenes with the kid were edited down or removed entirely it would make for a much-improved viewing experience.
Anyway, the new Ghostbusters hits multiplexes everywhere in America today, and while I’m a fan of the 1984 original and the 1989 sequel I won’t be heading out to watch this one– at least, not in theatres, anyway.
The main reason is that– based on the multiple trailers and critic/audience reviews that have come in thus far– it appears that the brand of humor fueling this new one isn’t the same as the 1980s versions, and assuming the style of humor on display in the trailers is used throughout the movie then it’s simply not for me.
Mind you, this has nothing to do with the four leads being women. I’ve seen that they’ve each been successful elsewhere in other venues, and I’ve seen other movies in which they’ve starred, to varying degrees of my personal amusement. I do not dislike any of the actresses, though I must admit that I have found Melissa McCarthy’s performances in one or two other instances to be a bit grating. Still, they’ve clearly been successful elsewhere– so kudos to them. I wish them well for their new Ghostbusters.
I will state that I think a racially-diverse ensemble (with both males and females) would have been a better choice, and drawn more audience. I enjoy diversity in my entertainment vehicles, and the ensemble cast of characters in “Astral Genesis” (the graphic novel I created and am working on right now) reflects that. But, I digress…
Regarding this new Ghostbusters film, the formula is pretty simple for me. The trailers haven’t displayed the kind of humor I like, and the critics and other reviewers who are mostly aligned with my same interests (who have seen the new movie) haven’t liked it. That, and $20 ticket prices at the local Cineplex are enough for me to pass. If anything, then, this one’s a Redbox for me.
That being the case, what to do about the whole Ghostbusters franchise debacle? Should this new movie be part of your Ghostbusters 1 and Ghostbusters 2 viewing rotation?
The answer is “no” for me, because the new movie is too different and doesn’t flow together smoothly with the 1984 and 1989 films (it doesn’t help matters that the original Ghostbusters cast play different characters in the new film– that, alone, is jarring enough to ruin a 3-movie Ghostbusters viewing rotation). So, what to do, then, since we never got a proper Ghostbusters 3 starring the original cast, and providing us with the same flavor of humor? I have some ideas…
In lieu of an “official” Ghostbusters 3 with the original cast, I’m going to instead substitute TWO movies in its place to make Ghostbusters 1 and Ghostbusters 2 into a FOUR-movie rotation. I’ll share with you the films I’ve picked, and the reasons why. The movies I’ve selected to round out the Ghostbusters movie rotation are:
- Groundhog Day (1993)
- Evolution (2001)
The reason I’ve picked these is because, between both of the movies listed above, you have nearly all of the original Ghostbusters main cast, the director, and other stars whose performances evoke those of the original Ghostbusters actors who aren’t in these films. In addition, the humor in each of these films is much more similar to the first two Ghostbusters movies.
Groundhog Day, if you haven’t seen it already, has been called the “crowing achievement” in the directorial career of Harold Ramis, and one of the best (if not the best) comedic performance by Bill Murray. It’s also a Columbia picture, and like Ghostbusters, there is a supernatural element to it. I like to think of the film as what it would be like if Dr. Venkman were trapped in a time warp. The movie also stars Harold Ramis, himself (bless his soul), in one scene, looking borderline too fat to play Dr. Spengler. When Groundhog Day debuted in 1993 it was probably the last time these two actors looked (appearance-wise) enough like their old Ghostbusters characters to effectively play them. It is perhaps not widely known that for reasons not entirely clear Murray and Ramis had a “falling out” during the making of Groundhog Day, and would never work together again, rendering the movie significant in the regard that it was their last artistic collaboration. Maybe it’s yet another reason why a Ghostbusters 3 never got made.
The often overlooked and forgotten Evolution “plays” much like Ghostbusters, was directed by Ivan Reitman, and some have even suspected was Reitman’s attempt at a “back door” spin on the Ghostbusters property when a third Ghostbusters franchise film never came together. David Duchovny does well as a combined Venkman/Spengler character, Julianne Moore is the Dana stand-in, and Orlando Jones channels Ernie Hudson, while Seann William Scott goes completely over the top to replace the wackiness of Stantz. The movie’s comedic beats and overall plot are similar to Ghostbusters— naturally, since the film was directed by Ivan Reitman. Dan Aykroyd even makes an appearance looking (if not sounding) a lot like his Ghostbusters counterpart.
So, bottom line here is that– if you’re like me and enjoy the cast, director, and overall “brand” of humor on display in 1984’s Ghostbusters— you now have a FOUR-movie rotation to enjoy in your “Ghostbusters-themed” film experience:
- Ghostbusters (1984)
- Ghostbusters 2 (1989)
- Groundhog Day (1993) – Continues with Murray and Ramis; supernatural themes and elements
- Evolution (2001) – Continues with Aykroyd and Reitman (Jones channels Hudson); “plays” similar to Ghostbusters with an ensemble cast
Also, don’t forget the excellent “Real Ghostbusters” animated series, which has been released on DVD in its entirety. While it’s not exactly the kind of thing to work into a movie rotation, it is certainly enjoyable in its own right.
I hope this helps you Ghostbusters fans who may not be totally sold on the new movie– and with that, I’ll wish you happy viewing!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
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Posted by Jay Magnum
July 6, 2016
Hi, guys!
The countdown to the big reveal of Astral Genesis artwork has begun!
The first of Ariel Medel’s absolutely fantastic art for the science-fiction/action tale will be revealed here on this website this coming July 21st, the very day (in 1969) when humans first set foot on the moon!
I think you’ll be every bit as excited about it as we, here, at Pet Piranha have been!
Stay tuned!
Your fellow comics fan,
-Jay
