INTERVIEW: New threats emerge in ‘True Believers’ issue #2
Image courtesy of Hex Publishers / Provided by Superfan Promotions with permission.
Stephen Graham Jones, Joshua Viola and Ben Matsuya are back with a second horror-filled dose of True Believers, their killer comic book series from Hex Publishers. Fans can support the second issue by heading to Kickstarter, where there’s a ton of extras and rewards available for backing the project. Impressively, as of April 8, the campaign has already amassed more than $16,000, and there’s more than two weeks still left to go.
What makes the second issue so special is that some of the horror genre’s favorite stars will make an appearance in print form. Cameos are promised from the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis (Halloween), R.L. Stine (Goosebumps), Devon Sawa (Final Destination) and even Gwar, the costumed metal band.
This time around, the story takes place on Friday the 13th, a most appropriate date for a slasher comic, and is set in the cosplay scene of the horror convention world. The inaugural installment saw the evil doings of a killer aptly named Killr™, and now someone is taking on this villain’s persona for another game of bloodletting, according to press notes. One wonders whether a copycat is in town, or is it possible that the original Killr™ is back.
If that wasn’t enough of an enticement, Trivium’s Matthew Kiichi Heafy will offer a 30-minute original score that can be enjoyed while reading the comic. Press notes indicate that the music is a combination of metal and John Carpenter-inspired instrumentation. One of the backing levels on Kickstarter includes Heafy’s score on a saw-blade-shaped vinyl record that needs to be seen to be believed.
Jones, of course, is the go-to horror novelist of this generation. His recent tomes include Don’t Fear the Reaper, My Heart Is a Chainsaw and The Only Good Indians, among others. Matsuya, the artist for the series, has drawn Jupiter Jet and Midnight Massacre. Variant covers are offered by Matthew Therrien, Skinner, Matt Maguire (with Gwar) and Luigi Scarcella of Half Sumo Collective.
Viola recently exchanged emails with Hollywood Soapbox to explain what’s in store for issue #2. He’s a multi-hyphenate who has worked in video games, including Pirates of the Caribbean and Target: Terror, and books, including Cyber World and Nightmares Unhinged. This renaissance man has also executive produced some horror films, including Shrine of Abominations, Deathgasm 2 Goremageddon and the Deathstalker reboot. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What did day one of this project look like? How did you connect with Stephen Graham Jones?
On day one, Stephen and I traded a flurry of text messages, exchanging ideas until we struck upon a concept that resonated with both of us. Stephen isn’t just a collaborator; he’s a friend whom I’ve had the pleasure of knowing for about 13 years. I’ve also published many of his short stories and even one of his comics, My Hero.
What do you love about the cosplay and convention scene? Makes for a great setting, right?
While I’ve dabbled in cosplay on one occasion, I prefer observing and admiring the craftsmanship and creativity of cosplayers. I hold a deep appreciation for the dedication that goes into preparing their costumes. Conventions have been a significant part of my life. I’ve been actively involved in them since college. Given my long-standing connection to conventions and my love for horror, it felt natural to merge these two worlds into a slasher tale.
Did you need the permission of these celebrities to include them in the narrative?
Obtaining permission and approval from all the celebrities featured in True Believers was paramount. We made sure to secure their official blessing before including them in any capacity within the project. Respecting their consent and ensuring their endorsement was a top priority throughout the production process.
What do you like about the mystery of Killr™ and other villains in the series?
We approached Killr™ with a blend of Scream‘s meta-horror and the investigative spirit of Scooby-Doo, ensuring each issue offers a fresh twist. The central mystery revolves around unmasking the perpetrator behind the chaos. It’s not just about the horror of the moment, but the suspense of uncovering the mastermind orchestrating it all.
Are you a fan of horror movies and horror comics?
Absolutely! I’m an avid movie buff and take immense pride in my extensive collection, which spans over 5,000 physical DVDs/blu-rays (and some VHS). My home theater is cinematic paradise, boasting a 155-inch screen, HD projector, elevated seating and even a popcorn machine to complete the experience. Furthermore, I’m executive producer on films like Deathstalker, Deathgasm 2 and Shrine of Abominations.
Comics are another passion of mine, with a collection that rivals my movies in both quantity and enthusiasm. I have an extensive array of indie horror comics. Whether it’s on the screen or within the pages of a comic book, my love for the genre knows no bounds.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
True Believers issue #2 is currently being crowdfunded via Kickstarter. Click here for more information.
