TidalWave Productions
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TidalWave Productions (previously known as Bluewater Productions, StormFront Media/Publishing & Storm Entertainment) is an independent production studio of comic books and graphic novels. Based in Portland, Oregon, United States, Bluewater publishes biographical comics, adaptations from films, and original titles with self-created characters.[1][2]
Key Information
History
[edit]The first iteration of Davis's company started in 2001 as a production studio at Image Comics, where its founder Darren G. Davis developed the company's signature series 10th Muse and The Legend of Isis. This iteration came to an end with the company declared bankrupt in 2003.[3]
Davis's revived company, then known as Bluewater Productions, became a publisher in May 2007 with the signature series Ray Harryhausen Presents,[4] which was produced in conjunction with filmmaker Ray Harryhausen until 2009.[5] Other signature series, including Vincent Price Presents, produced in conjunction with the daughter of the actor Vincent Price,[6] and William Shatner Presents, with actor William Shatner, followed.
The company signed a deal, in 2009, to republish the Rock 'N' Roll Comics series from defunct publisher Revolutionary Comics. The deal ended in 2013 after seven volumes with an eighth left un-published.[7]
In 2011, Bluewater began a collaboration with The Graphic Classroom, which resulted in the creation of free lesson plans to tie-in with the company's series of biographical comics.[8]
Bluewater became a pioneer in digital-first publishing in January 2012, with the release of its Gabby Giffords and Mitt Romney bio-comics on the Nook and Kindle prior to their print versions.[9]
Bluewater ended its distribution deal with Diamond Comic Distributors in 2012 after several of their titles were canceled for not meeting the sales benchmarks. Distribution was taken over by Comic Flea Market, which operates a print-on-demand service.[10][11] Following this Arcana Studio bought up the majority of the company's non-biographical original content, including 10th Muse and Legend of Isis.[12]
A name change to StormFront Media/Publishing in 2015 followed a television production deal for their property Insane Jane which required the company to differentiate itself from another production company of the same name.[13] A second name change to Storm Entertainment later that year was undertaken in order to end any confusion of the company with the controversial Stormfront message forum.[14] This rebranding coincided with a change to a digital-centric business plan.
The company regained its original name TidalWave Productions in 2016 and has been publishing through Ingram and various other distributors. They produced titles such as Female Force, Stormy Daniels: Space Force, Force of the Trojans, Soldier of Fortune, Juliet, Dorian Gray, Political Power and others. They are represented by The Bohemia Group in Los Angeles.
Darren G. Davis titles
[edit]10th Muse
[edit]Developed by founder Darren Davis, 10th Muse follows the adventures of the forgotten tenth muse of ancient Greece reincarnated in the body of ordinary present-day girl Emma Sonnet. 10th Muse was the sixth highest selling comic in November 2001.[citation needed]
10th Muse has been optioned for film and television several times, first in 2002. CastleBright Entertainment acquired the film option in 2007.[15] In 2011 Vanquish Motion Pictures commissioned a television pilot of 10th Muse penned by Jennifer Quintenez.[16]
Legend of Isis
[edit]Legend of Isis follows the adventures of the Egyptian goddess Isis as she adjusts to life in 21st century Los Angeles following 5,000 years of imprisonment. With the help of her new friends Scott Dean and Crystal Van Howe, Isis fights evil and holds down a day job working in a museum. Isis's primary weapon, the mystical staff of Luxor, channels the power of Osiris, her lost love.[citation needed]
The Legend of Isis was optioned in 2004 as a motion picture by Paramount Pictures and Grammnet Productions.[17]
Other titles
[edit]- Orion the Hunter
- Judo-Girl
- The Blackbeard Legacy
- Victoria's Secret Service (VSS)
- The Mis-Adventures of Adam West
Ray Harryhausen Signature Series
[edit]The Ray Harryhausen Signature Series is a series of authorised comic book adaptions of unrealised projects developed by filmmaker Ray Harryhausen which ran for two years, from 2007 to 2009.[18] Darren G. Davis stated that Harryhausen, who was in the process of retiring when the series began, had little creative involvement in the project.[19] The collaboration ended in 2009, with no plans to move the series to another publisher.[5]
Wrath of the Titans
[edit]
Wrath of the Titans is a 2007 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Darren G. Davis, Scott Davis, Nadir Balan and Jason Metcalf based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in 1984 as a sequel to Clash of the Titans (1981). In the story, set five years after the events of the film, the presumed-dead Calibos escapes from the Underworld to take his revenge on Perseus and his new family.[20]
A 1:6 scale figure of Perseus with Bubo from the comics was released by Go Hero in 2008.[21]
Wrath of the Titans: Eye of the Monster (a.k.a. Wrath of the Titans: Cyclops) is a 2009 one-shot comic book created by Matt Frank. The story, which is a prequel to the 1958 film The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, reveals how the cyclops acquired the magical lamp that it kept in its treasure cave on the island of Colossa before it was stolen from the cave by the wizard Sokurah.[22]
Wrath of the Titans: Revenge of Medusa is a 2011 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Darren G. Davis, Scott Davis and Jaime Martinez Rodriguez. In the story, Perseus is forced to match wits and armies with the Olympians.[23]
A licensing agreement with Warner Bros. allowed them to use the title for their film Wrath of the Titans (2012).[24]
Wrath of the Titans: Cyclops is a 2012 graphic novel created by C.W. Cooke and Ramon Salas aimed at juvenile readers.[24]
Wrath of the Titans: Force of the Trojans is a proposed four-issue comic book miniseries (of which only two issues so far have been released in the early 2010s) created by Chad Jones and Damian Graff. In the story, Apollo and Artemis must rescue Pythia from a dragon.[citation needed] A trade paperback edition of the comic was released in March 2021.
A radio dramatization of the original miniseries, produced by Colonial Radio Theater for SiriusXM, and a novelization called Wrath of the Titans: Battle for Argos, adapted by John Garavaglia from a script written by Ali Russell, were both released in 2013.[citation needed]
20 Million Miles More
[edit]20 Million Miles More is a 2007 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Scott Davis and Alex Garcia based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his film 20 Million Miles to Earth (1957). In the story, set 50 years after the events of the film, the crewed mission to Venus and the attack on Rome by the Ymir have long been dismissed as a hoax.[25]
As part of a publicity campaign for the comic, a preview of the first issue was included on the 50th Anniversary DVD release of the film.[26]
It Came from Beneath the Sea... Again!
[edit]It Came from Beneath the Sea... Again! is a 2007 (delayed until 2011) four-issue comic book miniseries created by Clay Griffith, Susan Griffith, Chris Noeth and Todd Tennant, based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his film It Came from Beneath the Sea (1955).
The story by Griffith and Griffith is described by Jake Thomas, writing for Fanbase Press, as "well-paced" and wasting "no time getting to the action", while James Ferguson, writing for Horror DNA, compliments the "outrageous and always funny" dialogue. The artwork by Noeth in the first two chapters is complimented by Thomas as "highly illustrated, bright, and bold", while dismissed by Ferguson as "very uneven", which he puts down to tight deadlines. The artwork by Tennant in the final two chapters is described by Thomas as "heavy-textured, almost photo-realistic panels", while Ferguson compliments the "insane" action shots despite the lazy shortcuts taken.[27][28]
As part of a publicity campaign for the comic, a preview of the first issue was included on the 50th Anniversary DVD release of the film.[26]
Sinbad: Rogue of Mars
[edit]Sinbad: Rogue of Mars is a 2007 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Greg Thompson, Scott Davis, Jeff Cruz and Kiatisak Piewkao based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in 1981 as a continuation of his Sinbad the Sailor film series, which would have been titled Sinbad Goes to Mars, and had previously included The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958), The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973) and Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (1977).[29][30]
A 1:6 scale figure of Sinbad from the comics was released by Go Hero in 2008.[21]
Morningside Entertainment, the production company behind the original series of films, optioned the miniseries for adaptation into a fourth entry in the feature film series in 2011.[31][32][33] The project was to be executive produced by Barry Schneer, nephew of original series producer Charles H. Schneer, and written by Paul J. Salamoff. A preview poster announcing a 2012 release date for the film was issued, but this was not met.[34]
A novelisation of the miniseries, adapted by John Garavaglia, was released in 2013.[citation needed]
Sinbad the Sailor is also featured in the unrelated Sinbad and the Merchant of Ages (2016) by Adam Gragg and Giampiero Wallnofer.[citation needed]
Ray Harryhausen Presents...
[edit]Ray Harryhausen Presents... is a 2007 comic book one-shot special which includes short stories and ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his early fairy tale animations, as well as previews and bonus materials of other titles in the signature series.[35]
- Introducing: The Baron Munchausen and his Unusual Companions by Adam David Gragg & Azim
- Hansel and Gretel by Emma Davis & Zack Rose
- The Tortoise and the Hare by Jason Schultz & Brian Hess
Jason & the Argonauts
[edit]Jason & the Argonauts: The Kingdom of Hades is a 2007 five-issue comic book miniseries created by David A. McIntee and Rantz based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his film Jason and the Argonauts (1963).
A 1:6 scale figure of the Skeleton Warrior from the comics was released by Go Hero in 2008.[21]
The miniseries was followed by Jason & the Argonauts: Final Chorus (2014).
Flying Saucers vs. the Earth
[edit]Flying Saucers vs. the Earth is a 2008 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Ryan Burton and Alan Brooks based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his film Earth vs. the Flying Saucers (1956). In the story, the events of the film are re-imagined from the perspective of the alien invaders, identified here as the Sons of Aberrann.[36]
As part of a publicity campaign for the comic,[36] a preview of the first issue was included on the 50th Anniversary DVD release of the film.[26]
Back to Mysterious Island
[edit]Back to Mysterious Island is a 2008 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Max Landis and Kevin Gentilcore based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in his film Mysterious Island (1961).[37] In the story, which features an entirely original primary cast, a pair of zoologists, surveying penguins on a rogue iceberg, accidentally rediscover the titular island.
War of the Elementals
[edit]War of the Elementals is a 2008 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Scott Davis and Sebastian Piriz based on ideas developed by Ray Harryhausen in 1952 for an unrealized film project called The Elementals.
A radio dramatization of the miniseries, produced by Colonial Radio Theater for SiriusXM, was released in 2016.
The Pit and the Pendulum
[edit]The Pit and the Pendulum is a 2009 comic book adaptation by Marc Lougee and Susan Ma of the award-winning 2007 stop-motion short executive produced by Ray Harryhausen, based on the story of the same name by Edgar Allan Poe.[38][39]
Vincent Price Signature Series
[edit]The Vincent Price Signature Series is a series of authorised by the estate of Vincent Price.
Vincent Price Presents
[edit]
Vincent Price Presents is a 2008-2011 ongoing comic book series which ran for 37 issues. The stories feature retellings of his films and original tales.[40]
Other titles
[edit]- Vincent Price Presents: Gallery of Terror (2009)
- Vincent Price Presents: The Tingler (2009)
- Vincent Price: His Life Story (2011)
- Vincent Price Presents: Tales from the Darkness (2012)
- Vincent Price: House of Horrors (2012)
William F. Nolan titles
[edit]A series of comic book titles based on Logan's Run was created in 2010 in collaboration with co-creator William F. Nolan.[41][42] Nolan has stated that part of his reason for making this deal was to encourage Warner Bros. to progress their long delayed plans to reboot the Logan's Run film franchise.[43]
Logan's Run
[edit]Logan's Run: The Last Day is a 2010-2011 six-issue comic book miniseries created by Paul J. Salamoff, in collaboration with William F. Nolan and Jason V. Brock, and Daniel Gete, which re-imagines the popular franchise created by Nolan and George Clayton Johnson.[44][45] The story draws on elements from the first novel Logan's Run and some elements from the second novel Logan's World.[46]
The writing by Salamoff is described by Jamie Trecker, writing for Newsarama,[47] as "pretty taut and immersive", resulting in "a speedy yet satisfying read". The art by Daniel Gete is described by Trecker as "serviceable" and "crisp".
A radio dramatization of the miniseries, produced by Colonial Radio Theater for SiriusXM was released in 2011.[48]
Logan's Run: Aftermath is a 2011 six-issue comic book miniseries created by Paul J. Salamoff, Philip Simpson, Mike Dorman, Carsten Biernat and Angel Bernuy.[48] In the story, which draws on elements from the second novel Logan's World, Logan returns to action when Jessica and his son Jaq find themselves in danger.
A radio dramatization of the miniseries, produced by Colonial Radio Theater for SiriusXM was released in 2012.
Logan's Run: Rebirth is a 2012-2013 four-issue comic book miniseries created by Paul J. Salamoff, William F. Nolan, Cesare Tatarelli, V. Kenneth Marion and Jayfri Hashim.
Logan's Run: Solo is a 2013 one-shot comic book special created by William F. Nolan, Jason V. Brock and Marcelo Da Silva.
Logan's Run: Blackflower is a 2017 comic book miniseries created by William F. Nolan, Scott Davis and Nick Diaz.
Tales from William F. Nolan's Dark Universe
[edit]Tales from William F. Nolan's Dark Universe is a 2011-2013 five-issue comic book miniseries created by William F. Nolan and Jason V. Brock.
Other titles
[edit]The Wave
[edit]In 2011, Gregg Paulson and AE Stueve launched The Wave, the first shared universe in Bluewater Productions history. This multi-part, creator-owned miniseries revolves around the adventures of characters from Greek mythology in modern times.[49][50] The Wave #0 explores what happens to Greek gods Artemis, Zeus, Poseidon and Persephone when mankind ceases to worship them. The line also follows mythological figures Heracles and Orion, as well as Bluewater original characters from 10th Muse, The Legend of Isis and Atlas. Stueve and Paulson cite the films of Ray Harryhausen and mythic archetypes of Joseph Campbell as major influences. Other titles in the series include Artemis, Orion, Heracles, Trident: The Power of Poseidon, and Twilight of the Gods.
Other titles
[edit]- 10th Muse
- 1782: The Year of Blood #1 (December 2008)
- 47 Decembers
- Atlas
- Anne of Green Gables
- Ares: Goddess of War
- Baneberry Creek Academy for Wayward Fairies
- Bartholomew of the Scissors #1—4 (September—December 2008)
- Battle Amongst the Stars #1—3 (March—May 2010)
- The Fabulous Beekman Boys: Polka Spot
- Camelot #1 (December 2007)
- The Claw and Fang #1—4 (April 2010—April 2011)
- Curse of the Mumy
- Dead End Boys
- The Deathsport Games #1—3 (November 2010—January 2011)
- Dirk Benedict in the 25th Century
- Distortions Unlimited #1—2 (December 2009—January 2011)
- Evel Knievel
- Dorian Gray
- Fantasy World of Bettie Page
- Femme Fatale: Eartha Kitt
- The Final Death Race
- Fleischer
- George Clayton Johnson's A Touch of Strange
- Gearz #1—4 (June—September 2008)
- The Humanoids #1 (October 2010)
- Hyde Park
- Infamous Charlie Sheen #1 (July 2011)
- Insane Jane #1—4 (March—June 2008)
- Jesus Christ: The Faith Series #1 (April 2010)
- Judo Girl: So You Wanna Revolution #1—3 (February—April 2011)
- Leprechaun #1—4 (May—August 2009)
- Lost Raven (January 2006, graphic novel)
- Les Storud's Survivorman
- Mike Miller's The Imaginaries
- Monsters Among Us
- Missile to the Moon #1 (January 2009)
- Myth Adventures of the Muses
- Nanny and Hank #1—4 (August—October 2010)
- Orion the Hunter Giant-Sized #1 (January 2008)
- Paparazzi #1—3 (March—June 2011)
- Pistolfist, Revolutionary Warrior #1—4 (July—October 2008)
- Plan 9 from Outer Space Strikes Again! #1 (March 2009)
- Quartermain
- Rain #1 (July 2011)
- Ret Romanne #1 (August 2008)
- Ruth and Freddy
- Secret Lives of Julie Newmar
- Sherlock Holmes: Victorian Knights #1—2 (December 2011—January 2012)
- Shi vs. 10th Muse #1 (June 2007)
- Spaced Out
- Styx and Stone #1—4 (December 2010—March 2011)
- Tiger & Crane #1—3 (February—August 2008)
- Tom Corbett, Space Cadet #1—4 (September—December 2009)
- Tony and Cleo #1—4 (July—October 2010)
- Venus #1 (October 2007)
- Violet Rose #1—2 (November 2007—June 2008)
- Warlock #1—4 (March—June 2009)
- Walter Koenig's Things to Come #1—2 (September—October 2011)
- William Shatner Presents: Man O'War #1 (January 2012)
- William Shatner Presents: Quest for Tomorrow #1 (September 2009)
- William Shatner Presents: The Tek War Chronicles #1—8 (June—December 2009)
Biographical comic books
[edit]In 2009, the company ventured into biographical comics with Female Force, a series celebrating influential women in society and popular culture. In the subsequent years, Bluewater Productions has filled the growing biography comics niche with other titles profiling popular figures in politics (Political Power), entertainment (Fame), literature, and others. Less than half of Bluewater Productions publications are biography.[51] Bluewater Productions wanted to utilize the "power of celebrity" to broaden comics distribution. Fame: Justin Bieber was initially distributed exclusively at WalMart stores.[52]
Although many biographical comics are unauthorized, the company wanted to contact most of its subjects to participate. In 2010, the publication of Female Force: Charlaine Harris marked the first authorized Female Force biography. Harris granted interviews to writer Kim Sherman.[53] When requested, Bluewater has donated profits made off the biography comics to charities of the subject's choice, as was the case with FAME: Ellen DeGeneres.[54] There was a criticism regarding a potentially exploitative nature of biography comics. Responses from Bluewater Productions highlight positive aspects of potentially expanding comics readership. Furthermore, the company defends its right to provide timely coverage that its audience demands. According to Davis, speaking about the then-upcoming Infamous: Charlie Sheen comic, "there are those who are going to complain that we are exploiting Sheen. But honestly, this is no different than People magazine devoting most of an issue to the story or TMZ or Slate or the general media's constant coverage of breaking developments. If Sheen contacted us right now and wanted us to donate some of the potential profits to a charity of his choosing, we would happily do so".[55]
In addition to Female Force, the company publishes the biography comic lines Political Power (Hillary Clinton, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey...), Fame (50 cent, Adele, Beyonce, Black Eyed Peas...), about famous authors (Anne Rice, JK Rowling, Neil Gaiman, Stephen King, Stephenie Meyer...)[56] and others.
In 2009, Bluewater began to reprint defunct publisher Revolutionary Comics' line of music comics (including their flagship title Rock 'N' Roll Comics).[57] The first collections were The Beatles Experience and Hard Rock Heroes, released in early 2010.
Many of Revolutionary's original creators participated in updating and modernizing the contents of the musical comic bios (which had been originally produced in the years 1989–1993). The reprints and updates were supervised by long-time Rock 'N' Roll Comics writer/editor Jay Allen Sanford. Ultimately, Bluewater released seven titles from 2010 to 2012.[58]
Two other projected volumes, Rock 'N' Roll Cartoon History: The Sixties and Rock 'N' Roll Cartoon History: The Seventies, remain unpublished.[58]
Multi-media products
[edit]Nanny & Hank was optioned by Uptown 6 Productions for a feature film.[59]
Insane Jane, as well as Tom Corbett, Space Cadet, were optioned by Pleroma for film adaptations.[60]
References
[edit]- ^ "TidalWave Productions". ComicVine. Retrieved 2017-09-25.
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- ^ Pepose, David (2010-01-22). "BLUEWATER Responds to Claims of Non-Payment". Newsarama. Archived from the original on July 14, 2015. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ "Comic Blog - Bluewater Announces Two Sell-Outs". ComicsAlliance. Archived from the original on 2012-02-08. Retrieved 2012-10-14.
- ^ a b Parkin, John (2009-08-28). "Ray Harryhausen and BlueWater Productions part ways (Updated)". CBR.com. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ Immortal After All... Vincent Price Comes to Comic Books, Newsarama, June 13, 2008
- ^ Johnston, Rich (2013-03-23). "Rock 'N' Roll Comics Splits From Bluewater". Bleedingcool.com. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ "Bluewater Unveils Lesson Plans for Educators". Comic Book Resources. 2011-08-03. Archived from the original on August 14, 2011. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ Alverson, Brigid (2012-01-10). "Bluewater goes digital-first with bio-comics". CBR.com. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ Alverson, Brigid (2012-08-22). "Bluewater breaks with Diamond, partners with Comic Flea Market". CBR.com. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ "Bluewater Leaves Diamond, Partners With Comic Flea Market For New Distribution". CBR.com. 2012-08-22. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ Johnston, Rich (2009-09-07). "Arcana Buys 10th Muse, Legend Of Isis And More From Bluewater". Bleedingcool.com. Retrieved 2012-10-14.
- ^ Johnston, Rich (2015-07-29). "Bluewater Renames Itself StormFront (Really?) And Publishes Metallica Biography". Bleedingcool.com. Retrieved 2012-10-14.
- ^ Johnston, Rich (2016-01-04). "StormFront (Née Bluewater Comics) Changes Its Name To Storm. That Won't Cause Any Problems Now, Will It?". Bleedingcool.com. Retrieved 2012-10-14.
- ^ "Film Development: About Us: Bluewater Productions". Bluewaterprod.com. Archived from the original on 2012-03-14. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "'10th Muse' Comic Book To Become A TV Series". Splashpage.mtv.com. Archived from the original on March 6, 2011. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ McNary, Dave (2004-09-16). "Grammnet bows to power of 'Isis' pitch - Entertainment News, Comic Book Biz, Media". Variety. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "BLUEWATER: Ray Harryhausen and Bluewater Make A Splash". Comiclist. 2007-01-24. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ May, Michael (2011-01-26). "Gorillas Riding Dinosaurs: Harryhausen's Sinbad: Movies to comics to movies again". CBR.com. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ Wrath of the Titans (2007) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
- ^ a b c "Go Hero, Bluewater Prod. announce new line of action figures". CBR.com. 2008-06-26. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ Wrath Of The Titans Cyclops #1 (2009) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
- ^ Wrath Of The Titans (2011) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
- ^ a b Gallagher, Brian (2011-11-16). "Wrath of the Titans Settles Title Dispute with Bluewater Productions". MovieWeb. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ "Ray Harryhausen Presents: 20 Million Miles More #1 (Preview)". CBR.com. 2013-09-01. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ a b c "Ray Harryhausen's Collection". IGN. 2007-09-24. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ Thomas, Jake (2013-01-31). "'Ray Harryhausen Presents: It Came from Beneath the Sea... Again!' - Comic Book Review". Fanbase Press. Retrieved 2017-09-25.
- ^ Ferguson, James (2011-05-11). ""It Came From Beneath the Sea... Again!" Graphic Novel Review". Horror DNA. Retrieved 2017-09-25.
- ^ "Sinbad Rogue Of Mars #1 Preview". Comiclist. 2007-06-13. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ Sinbad: Rogue of Mars (2007) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
- ^ Cox, Gordon (2011-01-20). "'Sinbad' optioned for new film". Variety. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ "Morningside Entertainment Options Bluewater's "Sinbad"". Morningside Entertainment. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ Gallagher, Brian (2011-01-20). "Sinbad: Rogue of Mars Coming from Morningside Entertainment". MovieWeb. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ "SINBAD: ROGUE OF MARS poster and live action film in 2012?!?! Produced by the Son of Schneer!!!". Aint It Cool News. 2011-04-08. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ Ray Harryhausen Presents #1 (2007) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
- ^ a b "Ray Harryhausen's "Flying Saucers VS The Earth" #1 sells out". CBR.com. 2008-05-16. Retrieved 2017-09-24.
- ^ "Bluwater Productions gets "Mysterious" with Harryhausen sequel". CBR.com. 2008-04-25. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ "Bluewater enters the realm of "The Pit and the Pendulum"". CBR.com. 2008-11-26. Retrieved 2017-09-17.
- ^ Pit And The Pendulum #1 (2009) at the Comic Book DB (archived from the original)
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- ^ "Bluewater to Produce "Logan's Run" Comics". CBR.com. 2010-03-27. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ Manning, Shaun (2010-03-06). "William F. Nolan Talks "Logan's Run" Comics". CBR.com. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ ""Logan's Run" #2 Sells Out, Gets Second Print". CBR.com. 2010-04-15. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
- ^ "On The Run: Interview With Paul J. Salamoff". Cosmic Book News. 2010-09-20. Archived from the original on 2012-03-13. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "Paul J. Salamoff Interview – Writer of Logan's Run: Last Day from Bluewater Comics". Comics And... 2010-03-27. Retrieved 2017-09-30.
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{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link) - ^ "Fame: Just Bieber Hits Shelves at Wal-Mart: News: Bluewater Productions". Bluewaterprod.com. 2009-03-17. Archived from the original on 2012-03-09. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "Bluewater Brings to Life the Story of Sookie Stackhouse and "True Blood" Creator: News: Bluewater Productions". Bluewaterprod.com. 2009-03-17. Archived from the original on 2012-03-09. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "Hunting Lobby Attacks Ellen DeGeneres Comic Publisher for Animal Rights (& Ellen) Support: News: Bluewater Productions". Bluewaterprod.com. 2009-03-17. Archived from the original on 2012-03-09. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "Charlie Sheen Bio Comic–"The Winning Edition"–Coming Soon from Bluewater". Comic Book Resources. 2011-03-08. Archived from the original on March 9, 2011. Retrieved 2012-03-04.
- ^ "All Bluewater Productions comicbooks", "ComicBookRealm", accessed june 2020
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- ^ "Insane Jane and Tom Corbett Movie Planned". 2011-08-03. Retrieved 2011-08-03.
External links
[edit]TidalWave Productions
View on GrokipediaHistory
Founding and Early Development
TidalWave Productions was founded in 2000 by Darren G. Davis, initially operating as a production studio in partnership with Image Comics to develop original comic properties.[9] The company's early focus centered on creating superhero titles inspired by mythology, with Davis serving as writer and publisher to build a shared universe of characters.[10] The flagship title, 10th Muse, debuted through Image Comics in November 2000, featuring a female attorney who transforms into the Greek Muse of epic poetry to battle crime; written by Davis and industry veteran Marv Wolfman, it achieved the sixth-highest sales ranking among debut independent comics that month.[10] This success enabled rapid expansion, including the 2002 one-shot The Legend of Isis, which introduced another mythological heroine, and subsequent titles like Orion the Hunter and Judo Girl, all contributing to an interconnected TidalWave Universe.[11] These early releases emphasized strong female protagonists and modern reinterpretations of ancient lore, establishing the studio's niche in the independent comics market before financial challenges emerged by 2003.[2]Bankruptcy and Relaunch
TidalWave Productions, originally launched in 2001 as a production imprint under Image Comics, faced severe financial challenges that culminated in the company's declaration of bankruptcy in 2003.[2] The bankruptcy effectively ended its initial iteration, which had focused on superhero titles such as 10th Muse and Ascension.[2] Founder Darren G. Davis revived the enterprise in 2007, establishing it as an independent publisher under the new name Bluewater Productions.[2] This relaunch marked a strategic pivot away from exclusive partnerships with larger publishers, enabling greater control over production and distribution. Bluewater Productions resumed operations with a renewed emphasis on original content, setting the stage for expanded output in subsequent years.[2]Expansion and Key Milestones
Following the relaunch after bankruptcy, TidalWave Productions, under founder Darren G. Davis, pivoted toward biographical nonfiction comics, debuting the Political Power series in 2008 with issues on Sarah Palin and Hillary Clinton, marking the company's entry into politically themed biographies.[12] This shift expanded the publishing portfolio beyond superhero titles, introducing lines such as Female Force, which profiled influential women including Michelle Obama and subsequent figures like Dolly Parton in 2010.[13] In 2009, the company secured a licensing agreement to republish the Rock 'N' Roll Comics series from the defunct Revolutionary Comics, enabling reprints of music biographies through 2013 and broadening its music-themed content.[14] Operating then as Bluewater Productions, it further grew by launching additional biography imprints like FAME for pop culture icons and Tribute for deceased entertainers. A temporary rebranding to StormFront Media in 2015 supported a television adaptation deal for the Insane Jane property, though the name reverted to TidalWave Productions in 2016 amid stabilized operations.[14][15] Key growth included a 2018 distribution partnership with Ingram, facilitating wider release of biography collections as trade paperbacks with enhanced production quality.[16] By that year, TidalWave marked a decade of nonfiction publishing, with ongoing expansion into new licenses such as the 2024 adaptation of Harold Robbins' novels into comic format.[17] This period solidified a focus on high-volume biographical output, distributed via Ingram and comic-specific channels, supporting annual releases across multiple series.[18]Publishing Portfolio
Original Superhero and Fiction Series
TidalWave Productions maintains a portfolio of original superhero comics centered on the TidalWave Universe, a shared setting that integrates mythological inspirations with contemporary action-adventure narratives, often featuring empowered female protagonists confronting gods, villains, and personal conflicts. The flagship title, 10th Muse, debuted in 2000 under Image Comics before TidalWave (then Bluewater Productions) acquired and relaunched it multiple times, depicting lawyer Emma Sonnet's transformation into a tenth muse via a magical amulet, granting her enhanced abilities to battle Olympian threats while balancing her dual life.[19][10] The series resumed as an ongoing in February 2023, written by Darren G. Davis and Michael Frizell with art by Igor Cicarini, emphasizing team-ups and alternate realities.[19] Other superhero entries include Judo Girl, chronicling Diana "Jude" Moore's revival after decades in cryogenic freeze, as she adapts to 21st-century challenges including college life and martial arts confrontations with resurfaced foes, launched as an ongoing series in fall 2021.[20] Legend of Isis portrays the Egyptian goddess Isis wielding a mystical staff to safeguard humanity in modern times, structured as a 2021 mini-series by writers Aaron Stueve and Darren G. Davis.[20] Similarly, Ares: Goddess of War follows the war god Ares, cursed into a female form, in a four-issue mini-series from 2021, where he schemes against TidalWave heroes to restore his divine rank.[20] The publisher's fiction series extend beyond strict superheroics into horror, romance, and sci-fi, often with speculative elements. In October 2021, TidalWave announced eight new titles to bolster original content, including Bold and the Brave, an ongoing team-up anthology pairing 10th Muse with universe allies across time via her amulet, scripted by multiple writers like Darren G. Davis.[20] Juliet and Romeo continues the immortal lovers' saga in a present-day hunt, written by Andrew Shayde.[20] Dorian Gray: Beneath the Canvas reimagines the classic as a monster hunter navigating legacy and relationships.[20] Insane Jane: Doctors Without Patience depicts chaos in a seized psychiatric ward.[20] Sci-fi entry Stormy Daniels: Space Force stars the titular captain leading rescues against alien forces in an erotic-tinged space opera.[20] Supporting these are meta-titles like the Guide to the TidalWave Universe series (issues 1–5 by 2024), profiling over 20 years of characters including Judo Girl, Lynx, and Medusa variants, and Secret Origins of the TidalWave Universe (Volume 7, 2023), detailing hero and villain backstories to unify the canon.[21][22] These efforts, distributed digitally via platforms like ComiXology and in print through Amazon, aim to revive and expand the universe's lore amid TidalWave's shift toward sustained original fiction post-2021.[20]Signature Collaboration Series
The Signature Collaboration Series of TidalWave Productions consists of authorized comic book lines developed in partnership with the estates of prominent filmmakers and actors, adapting unrealized projects, film-inspired stories, or original content tied to their legacies.[23][24] A key component is the Ray Harryhausen Signature Series, which features comic adaptations of unproduced film concepts by stop-motion animation pioneer Ray Harryhausen. Launched in 2007, the series includes titles such as Ray Harryhausen Presents, a one-shot exploring Harryhausen's imaginative worlds, and Wrath of the Titans, a sequel narrative inspired by his work on Clash of the Titans, depicting Perseus battling mythological creatures like cyclopes. Other entries encompass 20 Million Miles More, extending the story from Harryhausen's 1957 film 20 Million Miles to Earth, and recent expansions like a new Sinbad series announced in 2023, continuing his adventure fantasy themes with creatures and heroes.[25] Complementing this is the Vincent Price Signature Series, authorized by Price's estate, which debuted as TidalWave's first ongoing monthly comic in 2008 under the banner Vincent Price Presents. The series adapts episodes from Price's anthology TV show Stories of the Supernatural and introduces new horror tales narrated in his distinctive style, blending classic films like those involving gothic horror with original narratives featuring monsters and suspense.[24][26] By 2025, it had reached multiple volumes, with graphic novel collections reprinting issues for Halloween releases, maintaining a focus on eerie, Price-voiced introductions to macabre stories.[27][28] These collaborations emphasize fidelity to the originals' creative visions, leveraging estate approvals to produce content that revives dormant ideas in comic form, though production volumes remain limited compared to TidalWave's biographical lines.[1]Other Original Titles
TidalWave Productions has developed several original fiction series outside its superhero and biographical lines, often drawing from mythology, literature, or contemporary action genres. One such series is Wrath of the Titans: Force of the Trojans, a mythological adventure depicting battles against ancient monsters in a Trojan War setting, with issues released from 2015 to 2021, culminating in a trade paperback collecting the storyline.[29] Soldier of Fortune presents a team of mercenaries, dubbed STEALTH, tackling global threats including a missing nuclear weapon, in the vein of classic military comics like G.I. Joe. The series launched with issue #1 in 2018, written by Marc Shapiro, and includes a 2020 graphic novel compiling early issues.[30] Drawing from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the Juliet series reimagines the character as a woman preserved by magic and revived in the modern era, confronting secret societies and rediscovering identity; it began in 2021 with an omnibus edition spanning over 240 pages, followed by a sequel Juliet and Romeo.[31] An updated take on Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray, TidalWave's Dorian Gray incorporates supernatural elements like the predatory Morbi race, blending horror and tragedy in a graphic novel released in 2017 and a Beneath the Canvas miniseries.[32]Biographical Comics
Origins and Series Structure
TidalWave Productions began publishing biographical comics in 2008, expanding from its earlier focus on superhero and fiction titles into nonfiction narratives that profile real-life figures through illustrated storytelling. This pivot allowed the company to explore the lives of celebrities, politicians, and cultural icons via creative nonfiction, emphasizing key events, influences, and career milestones in a comic book format. The approach drew on the medium's visual strengths to dramatize biographical details, often without subject authorization unless specified.[12] The foundational series included Female Force, launched in 2009 to highlight influential women such as musicians, authors, and activists, with early issues marking the line's entry into the genre. Concurrently, Political Power emerged to cover political leaders, starting with profiles like Barack Obama amid the 2008 U.S. presidential election. These initial lines established a template of 22- to 28-page standalone issues, blending factual recounting with interpretive narrative, artwork, and occasional interviews for authorized entries—such as the 2010 Female Force: Charlaine Harris, the first in that series to receive direct subject input.[12] Subsequent expansion introduced thematic imprints like FAME for pop culture and entertainment icons, Orbit for comic creators, Tribute for historical or newsworthy figures, and Beyond for broader nonfiction topics, amassing over 60 FAME titles by the mid-2020s. Each series maintains a modular structure: individual issues or omnibus collections dedicated to one subject (e.g., Taylor Swift in FAME or Dolly Parton in Female Force), distributed in print via retailers like Amazon and digitally through platforms including Kindle and iTunes. This format prioritizes accessibility and episodic release, enabling rapid response to current events while relying on public records, interviews, and secondary sources for content.[33][34]Major Biographical Lines
TidalWave Productions' primary biographical comic lines center on celebrating influential figures across entertainment, politics, and culture through serialized one-shot or limited-run issues, often rendered in dynamic, pop-influenced artwork. The Female Force series, launched as a flagship imprint, profiles prominent women who have shaped contemporary society, including entertainers, activists, and leaders, with each issue providing a narrative overview of their careers and personal challenges.[35] Examples include biographies of Taylor Swift, released in December 2023, which highlights her musical evolution and Eras Tour achievements; Dolly Parton in 2022, emphasizing her artistic drive and philanthropy; and Jennifer Coolidge in November 2023, focusing on her acting breakthroughs.[36][37][38] This line contributes to TidalWave's broader catalog of over 200 biographical titles, prioritizing empowerment themes without authorized endorsements from subjects.[37] The FAME series extends biographical coverage to a wider array of pop culture icons, employing a pop art style to chronicle rises to stardom, with more than 60 individual issues and omnibus collections available in print and digital formats.[33] It targets celebrities from music, film, and sports, such as Lady Gaga's transformation from performer to icon, Katy Perry's shift from gospel roots to mainstream success, and Tony Hawk's skateboarding legacy, announced for release in May 2025.[33][39] Other entries cover Arnold Schwarzenegger's journey from bodybuilding to governance and Harry Styles' post-One Direction career, distributed via platforms like Amazon and ComiXology.[40][41] The series has garnered media mentions in outlets like Rolling Stone for its accessible format, though it relies on public-domain facts rather than exclusive interviews.[33] Complementing these, the Political Power series delivers issue-based biographies of key political and public figures, often timed to elections or events, examining their ideologies, campaigns, and impacts.[42] Notable releases include Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in October 2024, focusing on their 2024 presidential campaign roles; earlier profiles of Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton; and non-partisan entries like Ron Paul and James Comey, which detail policy influences and controversies.[42][43] This line maintains a neutral recounting of verifiable events, such as Comey's FBI tenure, without subject approvals, aligning with TidalWave's model of rapid-production, event-driven publishing.[44]Notable Releases and Subjects
TidalWave Productions' FAME series chronicles the lives of pop culture icons and celebrities, with over 60 titles released since its inception in 2010. Notable subjects include basketball legend Michael Jordan, whose comic depicts his rise from college stardom to NBA dominance and business ventures; rapper 50 Cent, focusing on his journey from street life to music and entertainment success; and singer Taylor Swift, covering her evolution from country artist to international superstar with multiple Grammy wins.[45] [46] [33] Other prominent FAME releases feature athletes like LeBron James in a 2023 issue tracing his high school debut to NBA championships and off-court philanthropy, and actor Arnold Schwarzenegger in a 2024 biography highlighting his bodybuilding career, Hollywood breakthroughs, and political tenure as California governor.[47] Musicians such as Eminem, Tupac Shakur, Beyoncé, and David Bowie also appear, with Bowie's entry emphasizing his innovative music, acting roles, and cultural influence across decades.[46] [33] In the Female Force series, which profiles influential women, key subjects include singer Shania Twain in an August 2024 release detailing her childhood hardships, breakthrough albums, and comeback after health challenges; late icon Selena in a 2021 comic exploring her Tejano music ascent and tragic death; and actress Jennifer Coolidge in a 2023 issue on her comedic roles in Legally Blonde and The White Lotus.[48] [49] [50] The Political Power series targets political figures, boasting over 200 biographies. Standout recent entries are Kamala Harris in "Road to the White House," released October 23, 2024, chronicling her prosecutorial background, Senate career, and vice presidency; and Tim Walz, also issued that month, covering his military service, governorship, and 2024 vice-presidential candidacy.[42] [43] Earlier profiles encompass Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Pete Buttigieg.[43] [51]- Entertainment and Music: Lil Nas X (February 2, 2022), Megan Thee Stallion, Jennifer Lawrence.[52] [53]
- Sports: Russell Wilson, Tom Daley.[33]
- Other: Eiichiro Oda (One Piece creator), Pope Francis in the Tribute line.[54] [1]