St. Petersburg, Monday, July 28th, 2008 11:00 am EST
Fierce Comics announced today that the company has acquired the worldwide publishing and licensing rights to the Maniacal Smile, a long running independent comic book that has gained widespread popularity in the west central Florida area.
The book follows the unusual adventures of young Alex McClendon, who was born with “super irritable bowel syndrome”, as he learns how to control a powerful battle suit in his efforts to become a super hero. Creators Rob Rhine and Mike Foss met the Fierce Comics team at a gathering of Tampa Bay based independent comic book creators, which lead to the formation of the Comic Colleagues Association and a collaboration on an anthology book for Free Comic Book Day 2008.
“This is a very funny, well crafted comic book with a very loyal following,” said Fierce Comics founder, Ben Filipiak. “That, combined with the fact that Rob’s and Mike’s strengths are a natural complement to the Fierce Comics team, made this a logical fit.” The company’s first planned release will be a five page introductory issue to be sold at upcoming conventions and distributed to comic book retailers as promotional copies.
Mike Foss, writer of the series that often pokes fun at mainstream comics said, “We’re very proud to join the Fierce Comics line up and look forward to launching the new series. With the kind of backing we’re receiving, we couldn’t be more excited about expanding our readership to a national level.”
“Smiley has a very bright future with Fierce Comics,“ said Rob Rhine, the book’s illustrator; whose colorful and energetic illustrations create an exciting world that seamlessly complements Foss’ humorous storytelling. “We’re looking forward to bringing the ‘comic’ back to comic books nationwide.”
The first issue in the ongoing series is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2009. Readers who wish to ensure they receive the first issue are encouraged to express their interest in the series to their local comic book provider.
Additional information on the Maniacal Smile and Fierce Comics can be found by visiting the company’s Web site at www.fiercecomics.com.