The first Atomeka publication, due out in July, is Maximum Force , a multi-layered parody of a superhero team that combines Elliott's twisted sensibility with Simon Bisley's go-for-the-jugular painterly style.

Comic and graphic novel orders (dollars) surged again for May 2002, continuing the torrid growth that began in the fourth quarter of 2001.

Initial raw orders to Diamond US from pop culture stores were lower on 16 of the top 25 titles in May than they were in April . Six titles were up, and three were new. Of the six that were up, two were Spider-Man and two were Batman titles.

Estimated quantities for initial orders on graphic novels shipping in May 2002 from pop culture stores ordering from Diamond US.

Estimated quantities for initial orders on comics shipping in May 2002 from pop culture stores ordering from Diamond US.

WizKids EVP Martin Stever told ICv2 that additional orders for HeroClix are still rolling in at a ferocious rate.

In-store gaming events have become a critical part of marketing games in recent years. W e looked for retailers that run a lot of events in their stores to gain the benefit of their experience.

Amid the swirling mountain of hype being generated for the highly anticipated debut of the Spider-Man film next week, it came as no surprise that the webslinger dominated nearly every discussion at today's Marvel press conference.

The Hellboy movie is now set to be made by Revolution Studios with Guillermo del Toro ( Blade II ) writng and directing and Ron Perlman starring, according to Ain't It Cool News.

Bongo Comics has announced that it will be producing a two-shot Futurama-Simpsons cross-over, beginning in August.