PREVIEW: SUB-MARINER #4

The U.S. government is after Namor–public enemy #1! A terrorist attack perpetrated by an Atlantean sleeper cell has killed 800 innocent civilians…but who gave the order? While the Sub-Mariner scours the surface for answers, Tony Stark, Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., tries to prevent a seemingly inevitable war between Atlantis and the surface world…but even Iron Man can’t stop the government from unleashing their secret weapon on Namor–the Thunderbolts! With extreme prejudice!
Written by MATT CHERNISS & PETER JOHNSON
Penciled by PHIL BRIONES
Cover by MARKO DJURDJEVIC
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99

Q&A: PHIL BRIONES

The latest Sub-Mariner miniseries from Marvel Comics buoys Namor’s stock in the Marvel U. thanks in part to the superb art of Phil Briones, a 37-year-old artist from Dijon in the Bourgogne region of France whose past credits for the House of Ideas include the recent White Tiger miniseries. With Sub-Mariner #3—the halfway point of the 6-issue series—hitting this week, we caught up with the promising import to get his take on Marvel’s Sea King and his current crisis: uncovering a secret Atlantean terror cell while taking on the surface world, led by Tony Stark and S.H.I.E.L.D.!
WIZARD: Phil, talk a little bit about your take on Namor; what’s your perspective on him as a character, given the fact he wasn’t a major property in your home country?
BRIONES: Namor truly is one of a kind. His personality is multilayered, very charismatic, powerful, intense, sometimes flexible and often inflexible in his demanding role as the king of Atlantis. He’s totally devoted, body and soul, to his kingdom. Being king and all, maybe that’s why he’s so troubled sometimes. It’s certainly a lesson that he will have to learn the hard way in this miniseries. At odds with everyone, he will no longer be safe, no matter where he goes. He can only rely on himself: betrayed, duped and so disappointed to see that so few people look up to him. But can he really blame them? Now is the time for him to get back in the game and to decide what really matters to him as a man. He has to make the right choices. I think it’s an interesting angle, one that actually breaks free of what Namor has been doing all along because he has been too distant, too special and maybe not close enough to the readers.
Read Full Interview

Defender Minimates

These Minimates will be an exclusive to
Action Figure Express and will be available this holiday season.

PREVIEW: SUB-MARINER #3

900 Americans are dead and S.H.I.E.L.D. is pointing the finger at Namor! In Sub-Mariner #3, Namor races against time to find the location of the rogue sleeper cell agents before they commit more heinous crimes in the name of Atlantis. But is he ready to battle Wolverine? Writers Matt Cherniss and Peter Johnson (Powerless) and up-and-coming artist Phil Briones (White Tiger) are making waves with the new limited series about Marvel's first mutant and his constant struggle against the "weaklings" of the surface world. Also, this action-packed issue features magnificent cover art by Young Guns Reloaded star Leinil Francis Yu (New Avengers).
After plowing through Iron Man and his armada of S.H.I.E.L.D. submarines, Namor searches for his old ally, Charles Xavier, only to find the Canadian berserker ready and waiting for a scrap at the gates of the X-Mansion! Meanwhile, sinister figures are lurking in the shadows; the rogue Atlanteans make plans to murder their "traitor king," but the vicious Venom might beat them to the punch if he develops a taste for seafood!
The conflict heats up in Sub-Mariner #3; will all of this tension lead to an inevitable war between Atlantis and America…and more importantly, will that war result in Namor's death? One thing is certain, the monarch of the seas won't go down without a fight – Imperius Rex!
Written by MAT CHERNISS & PETER JOHNSON
Penciled by PHIL BRIONES
Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Rated T+…$2.99
FOC—7/26/07, On Sale—8/15/07

Marvel Heroes Stamps

The second installment in the Postal Service's tribute to comic book superheroes goes on sale July 26. Last year 10 characters from D.C. Comics were honored. This year Marvel Comics earns as many stamps for their heroes.
The format of the sheet is the same as last year: 10 stamps picturing bold graphic images of the heroes, and below that 10 more stamps reproducing the covers of comic books that featured them. Most of the comic book covers are No. 1 issues from the 1960s.

The lineup this year includes:
Spider-Man. Imbued with incredible powers by the bite of an irradiated spider, student Peter Parker vowed to protect law-abiding citizens after a burglar killed his beloved uncle.
The Incredible Hulk. After being caught in a nuclear explosion, Dr. Robert Bruce Banner finds himself transformed during times of stress into the dark personification of his rage and fury: a most powerful manlike creature.
Captain America. In 1940, Steve Rogers volunteered for an experiment that transformed him into Captain America, the Sentinel of Liberty. He battled on behalf of his country until a freak mishap placed him in suspended animation for decades.
The Thing. Formerly a skilled fighter pilot, Ben Grimm is now The Thing, a member of the world-famous Fantastic Four.
Spider-Woman. After her genetic code was combined with that of a rare breed of spider, Jessica Drew was duped into serving the evil organization HYDRA. Now, as Spider-Woman, she became a super heroine.
Sub-Mariner. Monarch of a mighty undersea empire, Sub-Mariner strives to balance his responsibilities with his fiery temper.
Silver Surfer. Desperate to save his home planet from destruction, Norrin Radd struck a deal with a force known as Galactus. Now freed from his bondage, Silver Surfer rides the cosmic waves unshackled.
Electra. Driven by tragedy and versed in the ancient ways of the ninja, the mysterious Elektra brings destruction to all who are foolish enough to cross her path.
Iron Man. Injured by an enemy bomb, billionaire genius Tony Stark saved his own life by designing a life-sustaining shell of high-tech armor that turned him into the invincible Iron Man.
Wolverine. Little is known of Wolverine's past. Today, he is an X-Man who uses his animal-keen sense, healing powers, and razor-sharp claws to help protect a world that hates and fears mutants.
Information about the artwork shown on each stamp appears on the back on the stamp pane.

Preview: Sub-Mariner #2

tlantis has attacked America – but on whose orders? Now, as the leaders of men prepare to launch a war against the undersea kingdom, and Iron Man, Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., struggles to delay the inevitable, Namor wants answers! Will the Sub-Mariner have to take S.H.I.E.L.D. head-on? And will treacherous Atlanteans stab him in the back…? Peter Johnson & Matt Cherniss (POWERLESS) and international sensation Phil Briones (WHITE TIGER) bring you a bold new look at the mutant monarch of the ocean!
WRITER: MATT CHERNISS, PETER JOHNSON
PENCILS & INKS: PHILIPPE BRIONES
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
PRICE: 2.99
IN STORES: July 11, 2007

PREVIEW: SUB-MARINER #1

Terrorists have attacked the American mid-west and the fingers point to…Atlantis? Namor the Sub-Mariner is lord of Atlantis, so is he the man behind these attacks or is it the actions of a sleeper cell within his own nation? Those questions and more will be answered this June in Marvel’s brand new Sub-Mariner #1 (of 6) limited series, written by Matt Cherniss & Peter Johnson (Powerless), with art by Phil Briones (White Tiger). This is Namor like you’ve never seen him before, fighting SHIELD—and Iron Man—to make sure those responsible pay in full!
Marvel urges retailers to check their order on Sub-Mariner #1 which not only features one of Marvel’s most enduring heroes, but also ties into the wildly popular Initiative storyline and comes directly out of Namor’s pivotal appearances in the mega-hit Civil War. Now Namor must defend himself from both those who seek his crown and those who seek to control him. It’s the world against Namor—and the world better watch out!
Also, don’t miss out on your chance to own the new poster (on-sale now) featuring superstar artist Michael Turner’s stunning cover to Sub-Mariner #1!
SUB-MARINER #1 (of 6)
Written by MATT CHERNISS & PETER JOHNSON
Penciled by PHIL BRIONES
Cover by MICHAEL TURNER
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
On Sale—6/13/07
SUB-MARINER POSTER - Art by MICHAEL TURNER
24X36 Color Poster...$6.99
On-Sale NOW!

David Boreanaz Up for Sub-Mariner?

David Boreanaz Up for Sub-Mariner?

2007 Marvel Comics Commemorative Stamps

Marvel Comics, the art of Disney, Ella Fitzgerald, the settlement of Jamestown, Jimmy Stewart, Mendez v. Westminster, vintage mahogany speedboats, lighthouses and those stunning polar lights are just a sampling of diverse icons in the U.S. Postal Service’s 2007 commemorative stamp program lineup.
"Once again, the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee has delivered a powerful stamp program that reflects the American experience and highlights our values, heroes, history, achievements and natural wonders in an artistic collection of colorful postage stamps," said Postmaster General John E. Potter.
Marvel Super Heroes will save the day when they arrive in July. The 10 stamps on a pane of 20 depict Captain America, Elektra, Iron Man, Silver Surfer, Spider-Man, Spider-Woman, Sub-Mariner, The Incredible Hulk, The Thing and Wolverine.
The other 10 stamps depict classic Marvel Comic book covers linked to the super heroes. Information about the artwork shown on each stamp appears on the back on the stamp pane.
With these 20 colorful stamps, the U.S. Postal Service salutes stars from the world of Marvel Comics. For decades, Super Heroes have been synonymous with the comic book medium. Their adventures have provided an escape from every day life and demonstrate that individuals can make a difference. Comic books aren't simply "kid stuff" — adults have always been among their readers, and the form has attracted its share of serious artists and writers. And Super Heroes have responded to social and political issues from their beginnings.
Ten stamps on the pane of 20 are portraits of individual Marvel characters: Captain America, Elektra, Iron Man, Silver Surfer, Spider-Man, Spider-Woman, Sub-Mariner, The Incredible Hulk, The Thing and Wolverine.
The other 10 stamps depict individual Marvel Comic book covers. Information about the artwork shown on each stamp appears on the back on the stamp pane.
Marvel Covers
Amazing Spider-Man, issue #1
March 1963
Art by Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko
Peter Parker begins to worry about money now that Uncle Ben is gone; the first headline warning readers of the "Spider-Man Menace" runs in the Daily Bugle and gullible Aunt May gets drawn into complaining about "that horrible Spider-Man."
Marvel Spotlight, issue #32
February 1977
Art by Gil Kane
In her debut appearance, Jessica Drew is a brainwashed agent of the villainous organization HYDRA sent to destroy crime-fighter Nick Fury. With help from Nick's organization, SHIELD, Supreme Headquarters International Espionage Law-Enforcement Division, Jessica starts a new life as the super hero Spider-Woman and helps defeat HYDRA.
The Incredible Hulk, issue #1
May 1962
Art by Jack Kirby
When a man unwittingly enters the site where a nuclear weapon called the Gamma Bomb is being tested, he is rescued by its developer, Dr. Robert Bruce Banner. Exposure to the bomb's rays transforms Banner into the Hulk.
Captain America, issue #100
April 1968
Art by Jack Kirby
This issue marks the first time since World War II that Captain America starred in his own comic book. When Agent 13 infiltrates the organization of the villain Baron Zemo, Cap and Black Panther use the distraction to their advantage.
Sub-Mariner, issue #1
May 1968
Art by John Buscema and Sol Brodsky
Destiny gloats over the defeat of his archenemy, the Sub-Mariner, and implants illusions in Sub-Mariner Namor's mind about the ruin of Atlantis. Later, the Fantastic Four must stop Namor from destroying the surface world, which he blames for the destruction.
X-Men, issue #1
September 1963
Art by Jack Kirby
At his private academy, Professor Charles Xavier puts his students, each gifted with mutant abilities, through specialized training regimens. Soon, they must confront the evil mutant known as Magneto, who has seized control of an American military base.
Daredevil, issue #176
November 1981
Art by Frank Miller
Elektra decides to help Daredevil locate Stick, the man who trained him as a warrior. During the search, Elektra has a final confrontation with Kirigi, the dangerous and seemingly unstoppable fighter of the ninja clan known as the Hand.
Fantastic Four, issue #3
March 1962
Art by Jack Kirby
The Fantastic Four thwart the plans of the Miracle Man for world domination. This issue features a cutaway diagram detailing the interior of the Baxter Building, where the Fantastic Four make their home.
Silver Surfer, issue #1
August 1968
Art by John Buscema
Having betrayed his master Galactus to help the Fantastic Four save the planet Earth, the Silver Surfer finds himself a man without a home. As he explores Earth and puzzles over mankind's alien ways, he recounts the story of his origin.
Iron Man, issue #1
May 1968
Art by Gene Colan
Iron Man is captured by agents of the organization known as AIM, Advanced Idea Mechanics - a collective of scientists bent on world domination. Leading agent Mordius places the hero in a device that scans and duplicates his armor, creating replica suits for AIM operatives.
Marvel Characters
Spider-Man
Art by John Romita
Imbued with incredible powers by the bite of an irradiated spider, student Peter Parker vowed to protect law-abiding citizens after a burglar killed his beloved uncle. Peter has learned an invaluable lesson: with great power, there must also come great responsibility!
The Incredible Hulk
Art by John Buscema
After being caught in a nuclear explosion, Dr. Robert Bruce Banner finds himself transformed during times of stress into the dark personification of his rage and fury: the most powerful man-like creature ever to walk the Earth, the Incredible Hulk!
Captain America
Art by John Romita
In 1940, a frail youth named Steve Rogers volunteered for an experiment that transformed him into Captain America, the Sentinel of Liberty. He battled on behalf of his country until a freak mishap placed him in suspended animation for decades.
The Thing
Art by Jack Kirby
Formerly a skilled fighter pilot, Ben Grimm is now The Thing, a member of the world-famous Fantastic Four. Though people may find his craggy exterior of orange stone unsightly, Ben has maintained his sense of humor and his heart of gold.
Spider-Woman
Art by Carmine Infantino
After her genetic code was combined with that of a rare breed of spider, Jessica Drew was duped into serving the evil organization HYDRA. Later, as Spider-Woman, she became a super heroine. She is one of the Avengers, Earth's mightiest heroes.
Sub-Mariner
Art by Gene Colan
Monarch of a mighty undersea empire, the Sub-Mariner strives to balance his responsibilities with his fiery temper. His foremost concern is the welfare of his subjects, but he has been known to rise from the depths to defend humanity!
Silver Surfer
Art by Jack Kirby
Desperate to save his home planet from destruction, Norrin Radd struck a deal with the force known as Galactus: as the world-devourer's herald, he would search the galaxy for his master's sustenance. Now freed from his bondage, Silver Surfer rides the cosmic waves unshackled!
Elektra
Art by Frank Miller
Driven by tragedy and versed in the ancient ways of the ninja, the mysterious femme fatale known as Elektra brings destruction to all who are foolish enough to cross her path!
Iron Man
Art by John Byrne
Gravely injured by an enemy bomb, billionaire genius Tony Stark saved his own life by designing a life-sustaining shell of high-tech armor that turned him into the invincible Iron Man, a modern-day knight prepared to fight injustice.
Wolverine
Art by Dave Cockrum
Little is known of Wolverine's past, save that it was fraught with pain and loss. Today, he is an X-Man who uses his animal-keen sense, healing powers, and razor-sharp claws to help protect a world that hates and fears mutants (Wolverine isn't featured in the X-Men issue #1 cover stamp image because his character hadn't yet been introduced).

CHERNISS AND JOHNSON TALK "SUB-MARINER REVOLUTION"

CHERNISS AND JOHNSON TALK "SUB-MARINER REVOLUTION"

Jonathan Mostow to Helm Sub-Mariner!

Universal Pictures has signed Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines director Jonathan Mostow to rewrite and direct Marvel Studios' Sub-Mariner.
Variety says Mostow has cleared his schedule to make Sub-Mariner his next film. The comic, created by cartoonist Bill Everett in April 1939, centers on a young man who discovers he's actually a descendant from the long-lost kingdom of Atlantis. He turns out to be the key man in a brewing war between the underwater world and our own.
Kevin Misher is producing through his Misher Films along with Marvel Studios. Universal's Peter Cramer is overseeing for the studio, Kevin Feige for Marvel. David Self wrote an earlier draft of the screenplay.
Mostow's past credits also include U-571 and Breakdown.

Source: Variety