Aaron Campbell's blog for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge

Work schedule September 1

2011-09-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes I know. I did not post my schedule the last two days. Still greasing the wheels. But here's today's

Reference Elizabeth pg 3 & 4
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

Format reference pg 3 & 4
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Layout pg 3
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM

Layout pg 4
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM

Finish pencils pg 1
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 2:45 PM to 3:45 PM

Finish pencils pg 18
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 3:45 PM to 4:45 PM

Ink pg 1
scheduled September 1, 2011 from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Work Schedule August 29

2011-08-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

So I've implemented a new Scheduling process to help increase my output. I started back on issue 12 of Green Hornet Year One (due out in September) and it really worked out for me. Issue 12 was 24 pages and with this schedule I managed to get it done in just over 3 weeks. Now I've moved on to Dark Shadows and with any new project the beginning can be a bit slow starting what with all the reference work I have to do before I can actually start drawing anything. And with Dark Shadows it's even more so because of how faithful we're being to the original television show. So for a while my whole scheduling thing kind of got thrown out the window. But I'm pretty confident now that I can start using it again and stick to it pretty well. So I figured why not post it up and let friends and fans have a view into my daily process. I'll be posting up my schedule for the day every morning and also letting you know how well I was able to stick to my previous days schedule. And as I go along I'll try to talk a bit about what I'm actually doing and how my process works and such and so forth. And if possible maybe post up little snap shots of what I'm creating (if I can get permission to do so). So for now enjoy! or else!!

Shoot Reference pg 18 & 19

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

format reference pg 18

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM

format reference pg 19

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM

Layout pg 18

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 2:45 PM to 3:30 PM

Layout pg 19

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM

Finish ink pg 9

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 4:15 PM to 5:45 PM

Ink pg 22

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Ink pg 2

scheduled August 29, 2011 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

MY BIG ASS DRAWING

2011-06-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

Next weekend is Albuquerque Comic Expo (June 24, 25, and 26) and I've decided to embark on a little, or I guess big, experiment. I'll executing a ginormous drawing of one of my favorite characters, Wolverine, throughout the weekend which, by the way, will be available for purchase (details below). The drawing will measure a whopping 2 feet by 3 feet! I'll be using my traditional process, albeit supersized, of brush and ink over a blueline underdrawing. Granted I've had to make a few adjustment to my process to accommodate such a large scale. Instead of my standard #4 sable and india ink I'll be using Chinese calligraphy brushes and sumi ink. And whereas my blueline "pencils" for my interior work are digital prints, I transferred my original (smaller) drawing of Wolvie using a process called "xerox acetone transfer". The result isn't as clean and crisp as a digital print but it got the job done well enough for me to have something to ink over.

You can find me working on this bad boy in the Artists Alley at table D12 starting this Friday, June 24th.

How can you get your mitts on this veritable masterpiece you say? Why thank you for asking! It's gonna be available silent auction style. I'll have a little auction sheet sitting right there on my table where you can come and place your bids. I'm starting the bidding off at a mere 150 bucks! And if your the first one on scene you'll have the opportunity to "buy it now" for $450!!

So hopefully there'll be a nice little bidding war resulting in some lucking person going home with a sweet ass drawing of Wolverine!!!

!!!!

PHOENIX COMIC CON

2011-05-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

If you're gonna be at Phoenix Comic Con this weekend I'll be at booth #456. And I have a pretty sweet exclusive that you'll only find at Phoenix this year! Volume 1 of Green Hornet Year One WITH an original sketch of the classic hero by yours truly!

NEW YORK COMIC CON

2010-09-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

New York Comic Con is just few short week away and your's truly will be in attendance. October 8 - 10 you will find me lurking in the Artist Alley somewhere among the C's. So if you're coming out for the show make sure to stop by. I will have a modest stock of The Trial of Sherlock Holmes books for sell as well as issues and original pages from my critically acclaimed work on Green Hornet: Year One.

In addition I will be available for commissions during the show. I should have time to squeeze out 10 to 15 pieces so get to my booth early to sign up or email me before the show to pre-order cause it's first come first serve!

9" x 12" bust shots are $75.00. 11" x 14" full figure drawings with a limited background start at $125.00 for the first figure and add $75.00 for a second figure.

Oh and I will be excepting payment through paypal (as long as the network at the Jacob Javits Center works)

See you at the Show!

NOCTURNE 05

2010-08-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

Finished up a pressing commission of the Dark Knight Returns today. Figured it fits in well with the Nocturne theme.

Enjoy!

NOCTURNE 04

2010-07-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

I finally found time to do a new Nocturne piece. This one is a flying demon creature!

NOCTURNE 03

2010-05-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, finally had time to get back to this whole Nocturne thingy. Past couple weeks have been quite hectic. This week I'm returning to my ol' pals Holmes and Watson with a scene from the Hound of the Baskerville! This was actually a commissioned piece but thought it fits nicely with the Nocturne theme. Enjoy!

all images © Aaron Campbell 2010

NOCTURNE 02

2010-05-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Here's this week's Nocturne piece. I'm not going to try titling these pieces as I'm not very good at coming up with titles plus I'd rather just leave interpretation up to the viewer. This one is sort of a classic gangster rubbing out in a dark alley. I finished this up yesterday at the Free Comic Book Day signing at Astrozombies here in Albuquerque.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

2010-04-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself in the vicinity of Albuquerque, NM this Saturday (May 1st) don't miss Free Comic Book Day at Astrozombies in Hob Hill. My good buddy, and fellow comic book artist, Andy Kuhn and I will be on scene signing to crap out of some funny books.

There will plenty of great free comics, including a special Green Hornet book featuring the art of your's truly. I will also have stacks of original Green Hornet pages for your viewing and/or purchasing pleasure!

Page 20-21 Green Hornet: Year One #2

NOCTURNE 01

2010-04-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

So I've decided to try and start a weekly concept art section to my blog called Nocturne. I've been inspired by a lot of my fellow funny book artists who do similar types of posts. I figured this would be a good way to stretch my creative muscle and give me a chance to experiment a bit with techniques and subject matter. "Nocturne" is a very loose homage to a series of paintings by Whistler that go by the same name. So, basically, the unifying theme of all these drawing will be "night". Other than that anything goes.

This first piece was inspired by old Luna Park at Coney Island. Perfect place to start the night off with I think.

Check back weekly for new drawings! (hopefully)

Green Hornet Sketches

2010-04-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple commissions I recently finished up, one for my favorite local comic shop Astro-Zombies.

Vampirella sketch time!

2010-03-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

In honor of Dynamite's acquisition of Vampirella I did a quick sketch of the famous outerspace vampiress a-go-go!

ERIN GO BRAGH!

2010-03-17T09:04:00.001-07:00

In Stores Today! Issue One of The Green Hornet: Year One.

GREEN HORNET: YEAR ONE #1 TO SHIP 3 WEEKS EARLY!

2010-03-12T09:19:00.001-08:00

Hey, looks like the first issue of GHYO is going to in stores next Wednesday!

ENLARGE

Legendary Writer Matt Wagner's Green Hornet: Year One follows the astounding success of Kevin Smith's Green Hornet #1!

Following the successful launch of Kevin Smith's Green Hornet, Dynamite Entertainment is releasing Green Hornet: Year One #1 a full 3 weeks early! The very first days of the original Green Hornet and his faithful sidekick Kato begin under the masterful hand of writer Matt Wagner and artist Aaron Campbell! Follow Green Hornet and Kato as they move into the pages of history and form the ultimate crime-fighting duo!

With a renewed interest in Green Hornet due to Kevin Smith's comic book and the upcoming major motion picture starring Seth Rogen, now is the time to read our Green Hornet comic books! Green Hornet: Year One features the writing of Matt Wagner, bringing the characters to their basic roots a la All-Star Superman! Rooted in the pulp tradition, the original tales of Britt Reid and Kato begin here! Joining Wagner is artist Aaron Campbell (Sherlock Holmes), whose stunning recreation of the industrial world of 1930's Chicago is sure to wow fans across the globe! Witness the origin of the original Green Hornet in Green Hornet: Year One #1!

ENLARGE

"THE GREEN HORNET stands as one of the prototypes of the modern super-hero...and yet, surprisingly, the original version of the character featured no distinct origin tale," says writer Matt Wagner. "In GREEN HORNET; YEAR ONE, we're filling in the holes so that new and old readers alike can finally see and understand what makes this character such a long-lasting and vital part of American pop culture!"

"At long last the Green Hornet and Kato return, not only to their gritty roots, but in a way that has been lacking since their debut over 70 years ago," adds artist Aaron Campbell. "Matt Wagner's take on this iconic duo is sure to set the gold standard for years to come."

"Matt is the perfect writer to pen this tale. And after seeing Aaron's art on Sherlock Holmes, he stood out as the artist that would bring the right feel to this series. Dynamite is proud to have Matt and Aaron be the team behind this special series. They are integral to it!" stated Dynamite President and Publisher Nick Barrucci.

ENLARGE

THE GREEN HORNET: YEAR ONE #1
Written by MATT WAGNER
Art by AARON CAMPBELL
32 pages $3.99

To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook

For art and more information, please visit:www.dynamiteentertainment.com

Go Back to YEAR ONE With GREEN HORNET, Wagner, & Campbell

2010-02-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

No sooner has Dynamite’s modern take on the Green Hornet via Kevin Smith and company arrived than we are also being treated to looks at various corners of Reid history. Matt Wagner (of Grendel, Mage, and Sandman Mystery Theatre fame) and Aaron Campbell helm “Green Hornet: Year One”, which is their take on the original character of radio, television, and yes, comics. We caught up with the duo for their insights on the characters, how this new approach fits with Smith and Dynamite’s vision, and what will be made of the connection between their character and another Dynamite mainstay, the Lone Ranger.

Newsarama: With Green Hornet Year One, you appear to be exploring the roots of the original character. What provided the template for the plot in terms of GH history?

Matt Wagner: As I’ve mentioned before, I HAVE had some experience with these sorts of narratives in my career; the lone, masked avenger characters are just something towards which I tend to gravitate. The key to working on different varieties of that theme is trying to determine what makes each of these characters different from one another. In the case of the GREEN HORNET, I was struck with trying to determine exactly what makes him tick. His unmasked alter-ego, Britt Reid is the heir to a newspaper fortune and his father was something of a crusading journalist. So, if Britt’s has access to such a venue to effectively “fight crime” in that manner, what is it that causes him to pursue his crusade as a costumed vigilante? In the old radio show and the movie serials, there really isn’t any set origin or definition of these motivations. There may have been an origin in various earlier comic book incarnations, but I deliberately avoided reading those. I wanted my take to be fresh and innovative.

Nrama: How much of what you do will tie in with the fondly remembered TV show?

Wagner: Well, actually...very little. That time period is closer to what Kevin Smith will be handling in his GREEN HORNET title. As I mentioned, since my tale is set in the ‘30s, its motifs and structures are based on the original radio show and the subsequent movie serials. Which isn’t to say that there aren’t similarities; the ‘60s TV show was, after all, a modern updating of the same character and the same narrative details. Readers will still find Britt and Kato fighting crime as their costumed counterparts, they still ride in a sleek custom car called The Black Beauty and, yes...the Beauty has a hidden garage and a secret sliding-wall exit!

Aaron Campbell: Yeah, and actually while I was working on the character designs for Kato it was really important to us that he not look like Bruce Lee. As Matt has pointed out in the past, so many of the previous incarnations of The Green Hornet have always ended up with the Bruce Lee Kato. Now, don’t get me wrong, Bruce was awesome, but it would be sort of like recasting Michael Keaton in Batman Begins.

ENLARGE
Nrama: What's the Hornet's motivation compared with other masked adventurers?

Wagner: Like I said, that’s what we’re gonna explore. Why does he go to this effort when he’s got another opportunity to pursue his goal without all the danger and intrigue? One factor that really separates the Hornet from his costumed brethren is that, while characters like Batman, The Shadow, Zorro, The Sandman, etc...are viewed as criminals by the authorities, only the Green Hornet actively nurtures and adopts the position that he isn’t really a vigilante working outside the law for the cause of justice but is, in fact, an actual criminal himself. We’ll explore how he comes to that decision and approach as well.

Campbell: You know the Green Hornet’s motivation was something I struggled with a bit at first, and how you understand that can really alter the way you choose to portray a character. I knew that the Green Hornet was allowing himself to look like a criminal; I didn’t quite get the extent to which he was fostering this image and how that colored the relationship between himself and Kato. So I was starting to treat them like equal combatants in a fight. But something Matt told me really made everything come together. He said, “Remember that, according to the way these guys are playing their masquerade, The Hornet is the commanding mob boss and Kato is the ass-kicking muscle.”

Nrama: Will you explore how Kato became GH's partner? What dynamic makes that relationship work?

Wagner: To my mind, they really are partners...not master and servant. I wanted Kato to be a vital part of the team and not just the Kung Fu muscle. In the course of the first six-issue storyline, we’ll see how Britt and Kato’s relationship is formed and how they end up as masked partners against crime. I needed to define why Kato would follow Britt’s lead as much as he does ‘cause here’s another big difference between The Green Hornet and other masked adventurers; his “sidekick” is actually the tougher character! So, why would Kato serve the cause of this rich, Western white guy whose butt he could whup in the blink of an eye? We get into all of that and I was even able to weave the origin of their friendship in an actual historical event of the time.

Nrama: Is the connection between Hornet and the Lone Ranger discussed? To your minds, is that an important part of why Hornet is who he is, or is that just an interesting shade to the story?

Wagner: Ahhh...unlikely that we'll openly discuss it. As some of our readers may know and some may not, both The Lone Ranger and The Green Hornet were created by radio dramatist Fran Striker back in the 1930s. In fact, the Hornet is supposed to be the Ranger’s great nephew and, if you really look at and analyze their character traits, they have very much in common! Still, the reality is that the publishing rights to both characters were sold off to different entities at one point and, thus, a publishing crossover is something that...remains to be negotiated! At this point, we’re playing any sort of actual connection in a very implied sense; in fact, Lone Ranger scripter Brett Matthews has built up a certain character for the Ranger’s nephew, Daniel Reid, who in turn grows up to become a crusading newspaper publisher—and the father of Britt Reid. As Brett portrays it, one of Dan’s main interests as a boy is entomology—the scientific study of insects! I then wove that factor into the opening scene of our first issue.

Campbell: One of the things that I’m trying to do as the artist is throw in little Easter eggs here and there that could allude to the connection as well. I haven’t put in anything directly related to the Lone Ranger. There’s no black mask on display in the background anywhere. But, for instance, there’s a scene with Daniel Reid at one point where you’ll see a letter opener with a silver horse head handle.

Nrama: Are there any villains from the TV show or earlier stories that play a significant role?

Wagner: Traditionally, the Hornet didn’t usually face off with costumed villains...his focus was gangsters and racketeers. In fact, part of the narrative intro to his radio adventures featured a line that claimed, “He hunts the biggest of all game...public enemies that even the G-Men can’t reach!” Apparently FBI director J. Edgar Hoover voiced personal objection to that line so it was eventually changed to, “...public enemies who try to destroy our America!” So, basically, I’m going to be following the Dick Tracy mold for the Hornet’s opponents—violent and deranged gangsters whose names or nicknames tend to define their character. Batman’s creators followed the same trend but usually added colorful costumes as well. I’m trying to ground this series in reality just a bit. His initial adventures will involve a Chicago crime boss who’s inspired by Al Capone but with the volume turned up to “eleven”—Vincent “Skid” Caruso.

Campbell: And let me just point out that I’m really enjoying drawing all these sleazy characters. Mobsters with grumbly faces, big hooked noses, greasy mustaches, scars, cock-eyed stares, and a host of other uglinesses is right up my alley.

Nrama: In what era would you say the story is set?

Wagner: In the ‘30s. Britt and Kato meet at a famous historical tragedy that takes place during 1937. They eventually make their way back to Chicago and begin their crusade in 1938.

Nrama: Did that influence the approach to the designs?

Wagner: Oh, sure! John Cassaday, who’s handling the regular cover duties for the series, is an enormous Green Hornet fan and particularly loves the two Republic movie serials that were produced in ’40 and ’41. He designed the look of the Hornet and Kato’s costumes for this title and based them rather distinctly on how they looked in those serials—even down to the look of the Hornet’s gas-gun. Actually, that presented me with a bit of a dilemma because I wanted to change the fact that Hornet used a gas-gun, which I’ve never liked for two reasons; 1) he’s not wearing a gas-mask himself so how could use knock-out gas on his opponents in any sort of enclosed space? and 2) hornets don’t put people to sleep, they sting them! Luckily, I came up with an idea that solves the problem quite nicely, utilizing the gas capsules seen in the gun design from the serials, and delivering the appropriate sting! So far as the look of the series goes, we couldn’t ask for a better interior artist than Aaron Campbell! His attention to detail and historical accuracy really has made this a distinct and classy looking book! Newsarama recently ran a feature that showed how Aaron works, taking a page from idea through research and design and finally to fruition. I really think readers are gonna appreciate Aaron’s approach. He’s just doing a fabulous job on the title!

Campbell: Ah shucks, thanks Matt!

Nrama: If a reader has never experienced the Green Hornet, what do you think should bring them in?

Wagner: Well, aside from the multi-front GREEN HORNET event that Dynamite is coordinating, of course, there’s an increased awareness for the character due to the upcoming movie starring Seth Rogan and directed by Michel Gondry. Even though none of the Dynamite books bear any relation to that production, the expanded publicity certainly won’t hurt. Beyond that, I think modern audiences have developed an expanded interest in many types of narratives. I remember not so long ago, I was trying to pitch a series idea to DC that was set in their universe’s Golden Age (same time period that I’m dealing with here), only to be flatly told, “No one cares what happened in the past.” Obviously, this is before Vertigo eventually took a chance on my interests, which resulted in a very successful run of Sandman Mystery Theatre. I think modern audiences have disproved that rather cynical editorial outlook and do, indeed, have a very healthy interest in narratives of many timeframes. As you mentioned earlier, the ‘60s TV show is a fondly remembered incarnation. In the pages of GREEN HORNET; YEAR ONE, readers will finally be able to learn the origins, motivations, and earliest adventures for one of popular culture’s best known and longest enduring characters!

Campbell: Hey, and if none of that does it for ya, it’s written by Matt Wagner, colored by Francesco Francavilla, has covers by Matt, Stephen Segovia, John Cassaday, and Alex Ross, and hopefully I’ve done some justice to it as well!

Aaron Campbell: How I Draw GREEN HORNET: YEAR ON

2010-02-13T07:55:00.000-08:00

Aaron Campbell is no stranger to period pieces, or to working with characters who have a long-established history. Now, with Green Hornet: Year One, he'll be drawing the early tales of the noir-ish hero. Take a look as Campbell divulges the secrets of his process!

Check it out here!

GREEN HORNET #1 FCBD 2010 EDITION

2009-12-25T09:26:00.000-08:00

May 1 2010!

ublisher: D.E./DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

Dynamite Entertainment proudly presents the return of the Green Hornet! In 2010, Dynamite will unveil three brand-new Green Hornet series, starting with the worldwide debut of Kevin Smith's vision for the masked crusader (based on his unproduced screenplay)! Get a first look with this special edition featuring not only Smith's version, but the award-winning work of creators Matt Wagner and Brett Matthews as well! All in one Free Comic Book Day comic event!

32pgs, FC

FREE!

MATT WAGNER TAKES ON "GREEN HORNET"

2009-10-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

Wed, October 28th, 2009 at 11:58AM (PDT)

Dynamite Entertainment grabbed the attention of pulp fans and superhero aficionados alike early this month at the Baltimore Comic Con when they announced that Eisner Award-winning writer and artist Matt Wagner would be heading up their first major series with the radio adventure hero the Green Hornet early in 2010. Along with artist Aaron Campbell, Wagner will craft "Green Hornet: Year One" - a period series set to roll out the hero's untold origins and set the tone for Dynamite's forth-coming modern Hornet series headed by writers Brett Matthews and Kevin Smith.

CBR caught up with Wagner to talk about the new series, from what his first connection to the Green Hornet was, to how Dynamite tapped him for the gig, and from his new takes on Britt Reid and Kato's partnership to what exactly he plans for the hidden connections between the Hornet and the Lone Ranger.

Click here for the full story

The Darkness cover piece

2009-10-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a piece I just finished up for Top Cow. It should be gracing the cover of The Darkness in the not too distance future.

New Green Hornet Drawing

2009-10-23T18:19:00.001-07:00

Here's a new sketch I did of The Green Hornet and Kato. Going back to my roots here with brush and ink. I'm thinking I'll do brush and ink for the whole series.

THIS SATURDAY!

2009-10-05T11:21:00.000-07:00

Come see my work along with many other Albuquerque artists this Saturday at the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History. I will exhibiting original art from my recent Sherlock Holmes graphic novel "The Trial of Sherlock Holmes", by Leah Moore and John Reppion.

SHERLOCK HOLMES #4 PREVIEW

2009-08-24T20:59:00.002-07:00

Enlarge

STORY BY: Leah Moore, John Reppion
ART BY: Aaron Campbell
COLORS BY: Tony Aviña
COVER BY: John Cassaday, Laura Martin
PUBLISHER: Dynamite Entertainment
RELEASE DATE: Wed, August 26th, 2009; Browse for similar previews

TEXT SIZE

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The penultimate issue in Dynamite's acclaimed Sherlock Holmes comic book event! After Watson appeals to Mycroft Holmes and Sherlock himself arrives at the scene end of last issue, can the world's greatest detective unravel his greatest mystery?

SHERLOCK HOLMES #4 PREVIEW

2009-08-24T20:59:00.001-07:00

Review: Sherlock Holmes #3

2009-07-28T20:16:00.001-07:00

--by Stephen Schleicher

The problem with many comic book story arcs is once you hit issues three and four in a six issue arc, the story starts to stall as the writer attempts to fill the time before the turn and final denouement that wraps everything up. Fortunately, this is not the case with Leah Moore and John Reppion as the title character remains on the run.

This issue features Sherlock Holmes on the run after breaking out of prison, and he switches disguises a couple of times which makes it difficult to remember who is who. Fortunately, artist Aaron Campbell takes the time to have Holmes turn and look over his shoulder, and frames him in a way that everyone is in on the trick. Holmes’ journey around London gives some additional reveals – in particular a pair of hoodlums whose appearance in the story had me scratching my head as to why they appeared.

The plot to kill the visiting Baron Lothair continues to unfold as an assassination attempt on his life is carried out in grad fashion at the Royal Botanical Gardens. The Baron survives the attempt, but the reader is not made privy to who the shooter may be.

The change in place and location also finds Doctor Watson hoping to get help from Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock Holmes’ smarter brother. It’s got to be frustrating being Watson. Here’s a man that has the smarts to be a doctor, but deduction and reasoning force him to rely in Sherlock and Mycroft to spell it out for him. Mycroft, being the smarter one, is even more of a blocker than Sherlock when it comes to to helping the companion, by stating he’s late for lunch. Of course it’s not until the final panel that we find out who Mycroft it meeting for lunch.

The puzzle pieces are starting to fall into place in this third issue, but these glimpse of exposition seem a bit confusing at times. That’s one of the problems with many of the Sherlock Holmes stories in that readers see everything unfold through Watson’s recollections. I’m still confident that the final issue of this arc will spell everything out in a way that makes sense in hindsight, and thus show how well thought out the story is.

Don’t confuse the plot points highlighted above as an indication that this is a slow issue. A shoot out, a chance meeting with the Queen, Sherlock Holmes eluding police, a prying journalist from a paper who’s trying to get a scoop, and a lot more move this issue along nicely, and there’s never a dull moment. Moore and Reppion continue to keep the action entertaining and the story interesting.

While Campbell does use traditional television techniques to give the reader a chance to figure out who is who, and his attention to detail is really great, at time the panels seem so detailed that characters can get lost or confused with one another. I blame the fashion and facial hair style of the time, but it is a slight problem.

Personally, I really enjoy the detective genre, and the Sherlock Holmes series from Dynamite Entertainment is well done. I’m not sure I have it all figured out, but that’s part of the fun. Sherlock Holmes #3 holds together well and earns 4 out of 5 Stars.

Review: The Trial of Sherlock Holmes #2 (of 5

2009-07-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

June 30th, 2009
Author Henry Chamberlain

Buzz up

The Trial of Sherlock Holmes #2 (of 5)

Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion

Art by Aaron Campbell

Cover Art by John Cassady

Dynamite Entertainment $3.50 US

The Trial of Sherlock Holmes is a new Holmes tale and a “locked room” mystery that finds Holmes appearing to be the only possible murder suspect in this five issue series published by Dynamite Entertainment. Poe’s The Murders in the Rue Morgue is considered the first locked room mystery and first detective story. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, among other writers, would build on the idea of a shrewd detective with an assistant/narrator as well as the idea of an impossible crime.

It’s a puzzle within a puzzle and lots of fun. Considering it’s been done by some of the best writers around, the bar is set pretty high for the writing team of Leah Moore and John Reppion but they are no strangers to telling a good yarn, particularly a good Victorian one. This is Alan Moore’s daughter and son-in-law and they’ve learned from the legendary storyteller. They’ve been around for awhile now and have gotten some credits under their belts. I suspect this could be their best work yet.

The art of Aaron Campbell picks up nicely from the impressive cover art of John Cassady. It looks like Campbell did his homework and studied the original Holmes illustrations by Sidney Paget and built on that. Campbell’s style also makes me think of the gritty noirish art of Sean Phillips, Ed Brubaker’s partner in crime for a number of books including, Incognito. Interestingly enough, among the many comments of praise on the back of the first issue is a quote from Brubaker: “A fantastic opening shot, literally, to a great new Holmes mystery that I can’t wait to read the next chapter of.”

That opening shot is quite impressive with its steady pacing leading up to a dramatic explosion that sets the plot off and running. It is 1895 and a quarter of London’s East End is in flames after a bomb is detonated. A threatening letter is sent to Sir Samuel Henry, a retired police official, demanding that, unless he remains at his home at precisely seven the next evening, more explosions will follow. Sir Henry requests that Holmes be at his side at that hour. Holmes obliges and subsequently is found in Sir Henry’s room with gun in hand and a dead Sir Henry. Not only that, but it appears that Sir Henry had evidence proving Sherlock Holmes to be the infamous criminal mastermind, Professor Moriarty.

So, here we are into Issue Two and into a devilish mystery. Hats off to colorist Tony Aviña for his deft handling of moody colors and lighting. There is quite a lot of play with light to see as in an engaging scene with Watson struggling over what little clues he has before him bathed in lamp light. Campbell’s bold use of marks across a face or surface in place of more delicate lines adds to the suspense. All well in good for an issue that continues to set the tone for this story.

By the end of this issue, Holmes has escaped from prison and Watson has snuck into the crime scene and found another clue. This last one appears to be a scrap of paper. This could lead back to the threatening letter sent to Sir Henry. Perhaps Sir Henry sent it to himself. Or maybe it was from Mrs. Gammage, the overbearing housekeeper. For now, Holmes is on the loose disguised as an English bobby with only his wits to rely upon. Like Ed Brubaker, I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Another review snipet

2009-06-11T08:00:00.001-07:00

Here's a quote about my work from a review for Sherlock Holmes #2 from Comic Book Resources.

"These transitions do allow Aaron Campbell to show off his artistic skills as he deftly handles them with ease. His work continues to improve as he depicts Victorian England well, placing the events firmly in that period. His character work and body language is also better than last issue. In the opening pages, his moody art that shows what theoretically happened in Sir Henry’s locked room when he was shot is breathtaking, as is the sequence where Watson does nothing but sit at his desk, trying to figure out how Holmes was framed, struggling to do the work of his absent friend."

Review: Sherlock Holmes #2

2009-06-11T07:54:00.000-07:00

--by Stephen Schleicher

The mystery of the locked room mystery

Leah Moore and John Reppion did a bang up job in kicking off a new era of Sherlock Holmes in comic book form. A brand new mystery, utilizing the tropes that made the detective famous. Issue #2 finds Holmes in jail for a murder he may have committed, so how’s he going to get out of this one.

Following the murder of Sir Samuel Henry, the great detective has been arrested and tossed in the hoosegow as the prime suspect. Scotland Yard is stacking the deck against Holmes by preventing Watson, Inspector Lestrade, and even Holmes’ landlady Ms. Hudson from seeing the imprisoned sleuth or even investigating the case officially. Things look pretty bleak for the hero who is locked up deep in the prison, but one only has to remember that this is Sherlock Holmes the master detective, the man who is able to pick up the subtleties and nuances of anyone, and most importantly, a master of disguise, which comes into play at issues end.

What makes this issue stand out is readers aren’t inundated with Holmes’ smarter-than-thou attitude, that at times tends to belittle those around him, but rather Moore and Reppion’s focus on the failings of both Watson and Lestrade. This issue finds Watson stressing over the clues he has access to, and Lestrade relegated to bodyguard duty of a visiting dignitary. It’s an interesting character study to see the two struggle without their friend, and even more satisfying to see the two work together at issue’s end find physical evidence of the crime.

Moore and Reppion also present a very interesting perspective on Holmes’ greatest foe. The Scotland Yard’s head inspector believes Holmes killed Sir Henry because Sir Henry has deduced that Moriarty and Holmes are one and the same. While we are lead to believe that Moriarty is real in Watson’s fantastical accounts of Holmes adventures, here readers are asked to question that belief just a little. I like the concept, but it is an argument that doesn’t stand on its own legs and would collapse completely once the Holmes purists found out about it.

The pacing works very well in the issue, and once readers realize disguises play a part in this chapter, more attention will be paid to the art. Here Aaron Campbell serves up a slice of Victorian England architecture and period dress to create an overall feel of the time period. The only thing I thought that seemed off was the night scenes didn’t seem foggy enough, and things looked a little too clean for taste — especially during an era where everything was being fueled by coal.

When all is said and done, the story moves forward as Holmes’ stay in prison is cut short, Watson finds a clue, and I’m still thinking Sir Henry’s maid was somehow involved in all of this. The good thing about a well told mystery - especially in comic book form - is if the writers and artists are on their game, all the clues are laid before the reader if they know where to look. I’m hoping once the series finishes, readers can flip back to back issues and see how clever everything was put together.

Sherlock Holmes #2 is a well put together issue, and I’m hooked with the mystery. I’m giving the issue 4.5 out of 5 Stars.

EXCLUSIVE: CASSADAY'S SHERLOCK HOLMES #4

2009-05-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

by CBR News Team, Editor

More from this Author

CATEGORY: COMIC BOOKS
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Wed, May 27th, 2009 at 9:58AM PST

Updated: Wed, May 27th, 2009 at 10:03AM PST

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Dynamite Entertainment has provided CBR with an exclusive first look at John Cassaday's cover for "Sherlock Holmes" #4. Written by Leah Moore & John Reppion with art by Aaron Campbell, this issue goes on sale in August.

SHERLOCK HOLMES #4 (OF 5)
SKU: C725130125576
Price: $3.50
Rating: TEEN+
Covers: JOHN CASSADAY (W/LAURA MARTIN COLORS)
Writer: LEAH MOORE, JOHN REPPION
Penciller/Inker: AARON CAMPBELL
Colorist: TONY AVIÑA
Genre: HORROR, MYSTERY
Awards: N/A
Publication Date: AUGUST, 2009
Format: Comic Book
Rights: WW
Age range: 16+
Diamond Code:
UPC: 725130125576

The penultimate issue in Dynamite’s acclaimed Sherlock Holmes comic book event! After Watson appeals to Mycroft Holmes and Sherlock himself arrives at the scene end of last issue, can the world’s greatest detective unravel his greatest mystery?

Other Nice Review

2009-05-17T09:27:00.001-07:00

Holmes Sweet Holmes

Posted by Don MacPherson on May 7th, 2009

Being a comics writing team consisting of the daughter and son-in-law of Alan Moore must be something of a daunting prospect. The family association no doubt brings a lot of expectations along with it. Of the various Leah Moore/John Reppion comics I’ve read in the past, they’ve ranged from capably crafted, entertaining works to groan-inducing, creative flops. Sherlock Holmes doesn’t fall into either category, as it stands out as the strongest bit of writing I’ve seen from this team thus far in its career (albeit, I admit I haven’t sampled every one of their published efforts to date). Moore and Reppion capture a classic Holmes tone (or least what passes for one as far as I can tell), and they do so with some fun, intriguing mystery storytelling. There’s not just one mystery for Holmes to solve here, but several, all intertwining with one another. This was a strong debut issue, and I await the next episode with bated breath.

In the wake of a devastating and puzzling bombing incident in London, an ailing man who once served as an assistant police commissioner calls upon Sherlock Holmes to bring his keen mind to prevent his own murder. Someone claiming to be responsible for the bombing has sent the sick man a message predicting his death at a specific hour. That time draws near, so Holmes and his trusted colleague Dr. Watson head out to the scene of the supposed crime-to-be.

Aaron Campbell’s style, which has a sort of rough-around-the-edges quality, captures the period nicely. His style reminds me of that of Lee (Joker graphic novel) Bermejo. Oddly enough, I really enjoyed his take on Watson; there’s so much character in his face. There’s something familiar and comforting about Watson as compared to the lean, clean Holmes. Sometimes, his backgrounds are lacking in detail, notably during Holmes and Watson’s first conversation in this issue, but overall, his visuals really reinforce the story and draw the reader into an atmosphere of intrigue and tension. Adding to that mood are the colors. Tony Avina does an exceptional job when it comes to fostering a haunting environment, especially later in the issue.

It’s probably just because I’m a news reporter by day, but I thoroughly enjoyed the late 19th-century take on news reporting, which serves as the narrative voice for the opening scene. I have no idea if such purple prose was common in newspapers of that era, but I loved the colorful, Victorian-era prose for some reason. It put me in just the right mood for the rest of the story.

I rather enjoyed how the writers keep shifting gears throughout the script. At first, the mystery stems from a bombing. Next, we learn of Holmes being contacted by a noted celebrity with a link to royalty, but why, we don’t know. And then there’s the mystery of the dying man threatened with a precise time of death. Clearly, there’s a far more complex story forming; Moore and Reppion have tossed out a few piece of the puzzle that will converge as part of a larger picture. In the meantime, the reader gets more mysteries for his money.

Moore and Reppion have quite the advantage when it comes to this title character. They don’t have to spend much time with introductions or character development. Sherlock Holmes is an icon known the world over, so the writers know going in that the audience is going to be quite familiar with him. That allows them to pull off the best scene in the book, and that’s the one featuring a befuddled and speechless Holmes. The reader’s knowledge of Holmes, his intellect and his confidence allow that moment to pack a much stronger impact without having to firmly establish Holmes’s ego and reputation beyond some superficial exposition in the script. It’s a great take on Holmes, and if the mysteries peppered throughout the issue before that moment weren’t enough to hook you, that look on Holmes’s face will. 8/10

Review of Sherlock Holmes from the Philadelphia Daily News

2009-05-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

New adventure with the master of mystery: 'Sherlock Holmes'

By JEROME MAIDA
Philadelphia Daily News

For the Daily News

If there is one element missing from the comics shelves these days, it is a good mystery.

This is interesting considering that the two major properties translated to the big screen this year - "Watchmen" and "Wolverine" - are based on the genre.

With "Watchmen," it's the search for the manipulator behind the scenes; with "Wolverine," it's a journey to rediscover his past.

But in retrospect, the mysteries were unsatisfying. "Watchmen's" mastermind turned out to be the only hero who survived an assassination attempt. Gee, Comics Guy never saw that coming!

As for Wolverine, in the comics and on film, Logan's memories are so muddled and he has been messed with so often that any revelation loses impact because you know it could be exposed as a lie tomorrow.

Additionally, what Comics Guy has been growing weary of is what passes as a mystery in comics these days: Who will be killed? Who's coming back? Who's a Skrull? Who's wearing that costume? Half the time the revelation is done first to get maximum shock value and then the gaps are filled in.

What Comics Guy has longed for is a good, old-fashioned whodunit, like Batman used to relish. Unfortunately, even the Dark Knight Detective - except when written by Paul Dini - does very little mystery-solving anymore, with crafters of his tales seemingly content to have him battle the same dozen or so villains, locking them up, seeing them go free and repeating the cycle.

So what's someone who wants to read stories in which the lead uses his brain more than his fists, guns or superpowers to do?

Enjoy a new adventure of perhaps the greatest sleuth ever created by picking up "Sherlock Holmes" No. 1 from Dynamite.

Though Dynamite has successfully adapted, polished and updated several licensed properties from various genres, "Sherlock Holmes" may have been the hardest to pull off - and they've done fantastically well.

Leah Moore and John Reppion have taken a legendary character and nailed both him and his surroundings. They strike a perfect balance between treating Holmes with the reverence an icon of his stature deserves while also giving him a modern edge.

Artist Aaron Campbell completes the process of pulling us into Holmes' world by imbuing all the characters and their surroundings with a Victorian mood.

The book begins with an explosion that immediately places Holmes and his equally iconic sidekick Dr. Watson on the case. Along the way, they touch on subjects ranging from terrorism to religion to Holmes' already legendary status before the first issue ends on a cliffhanger that throws the normally cool-as-a-cucumber Holmes for a loop.

With a story and dialogue sharp and witty enough to be worthy of one of the world's greatest minds, Dynamite has given the world's most famous detective a fresh voice that should appeal to both old and new fans.

The only real mystery is why this book hasn't received more orders and attention.

Hypergeek Examines Sherlock Holmes #1. Being an Honest Dissection of a Contemporary Classic

2009-05-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a great review of the first issue of Sherlock Holmes! Thanks to Hypergeek.

As a general rule, I tend to shy away from comic books which are either adaptations of novels, or new stories based on classic literary characters. With adaptations I tend to find that because I am so familiar with the original novel I become bored very rapidly; either that, or I become irritated that certain things were cut out, or important parts were altered to fit the comic page. When it comes to new stories based upon a classic work, it is always a risky venture. The classic version of a character is often ingrained in peoples minds very thoroughly; therefore, when you take that character and place it in alien situation, it is inevitable that you are going to upset some people. People are likely to criticize your portrayal because you have made the character do, or say, something that they think is out of character. They are also likely to criticize the fact that the dialogue is not in the same style as the original story, or any other number of perceived mistakes.

I'll admit that I am very picky when it comes to this sort of thing. I have tried several comic adaptations recently, and gave most of them up very quickly, for example, the comics based on Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time books, Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game, and Stephen King's The Stand. I'm even more picky about new stories. I'll admit that have been enjoying the new Dark Tower stories that Marvel have been putting out, which fit in the interstices left in the mythology of King's fantasy epic, but I do have some serious problems with the drawling speech pattern used for the narrator, and some of the dialogue used is painfully bad. That being said, this is probably the best story of this type that I have read thus far.

That is, until I read the new Sherlock Holmes series from Dynamite Entertainment. The title is written by Leah Moore, and John Reppion, with artwork provided by Aaron Campbell, and with cover art by John Cassaday. The first issue of the series was released last Wednesday, 29th April 2009, with following issues to be released on a monthly basis.

The first arc of the title is an entirely new 6-part story called 'The Trial of Sherlock Holmes'. The story opens with a mysterious explosion in a warehouse in East London. On the following day, retired assistant police commissioner Samuel Henry receives a threat against his life from an unknown malefactor who lays claims to the previous night's explosion, and threatens several more bombings throughout London, at seven p.m. that evening. Fearing for his life, Sir Henry requests a meeting with Sherlock Holmes, to help discern the source of the threat. When Holmes arrives at the home of Sir Henry, he finds he building to be under heavy police protection, and inside he meets Inspector Lastrade and Detective Inspector Davis of Scotland Yard. After some discussion of the matters at hand, and talk of the impending visit of Baron Albrecht Lothair, who has expressed an interest in meeting Holmes, Sir Henry requests for Holmes to come up to his room, where he is bedridden from Consumption. Holmes goes up to see Sir Henry alone, then at the strike of 7 p.m. a gunshot is heard from the bedroom, and the police and Watson smash in the door to find Sir Henry dead, and Holmes holding a smoking gun in his hand, literally.

What an explosive way to begin the title! It is a classic locked room mystery, with the twist being that the chief suspect is the detective who is normally called upon to solve such cases. As Holmes is escorted to jail by the police, the reader is left waiting with an incredibly intense cliffhanger, the could possibly feel longer than Holmes' night in the cells! Clearly, there is far more going on here than meets the eye, and lots of hint are peppered throughout the opening chapter. What is all the hoopla about the visit of Baron Albrecht Lothair? Who bombed the warehouse? What did they have to do with Holmes being in Sir Henry's room at the exact time of the intended bombing? What do the mysterious threatening letters sent to the papers have to do with everything?

Wow! This comic has an incredibly intriguing premise, and perfect pacing. Moore & Reppion have done an absolutely amazing job on this book. It's not just the mystery that makes this one great though, as they work their real magic in the finer details. The dialogue is absolutely top-notch, and is as faithful to actual 19th Century dialog as one could possibly hope for, with faithful spellings and antiquated phrases. The characterization of Holmes and Watson feels absolutely perfect, and remain very faithful to Arthur Conan Doyle's depictions of them. You can tell that a lot of research has gone into this comic, and that has really payed of with a story that feels like it could have been written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle himself.

On the art front, Aaron Campbell does a wonderful job of bringing Holmes and co. to the modern comic book page. His depiction of Holmes and Watson are rather faithful to early line-art illustrations of the characters, and he gives the London streets that wonderfully foreboding atmosphere that makes you think that Spring-Heeled Jack could be lurking in the fog bank, or at the end of the next dark alley. I remember that last year John Reppion was asking people to recommend him a good artist that could do a 19th century period style. I assume this is the project that he was working on, and I would say that he found the perfect artist for the project. He should buy a pint for the person who recommended Aaron Campbell to him :)

At the start of this review I mentioned my trepidation towards adaptations of novels, and original tales involving classic characters. Moore, Reppion and Campbell might very well have changed my mind on this issue entirely. As a big Sherlock Holmes fan, I can honestly say that so far, this is looking like it might be my favourite non Conan Doyle penned Holmes story ever committed to paper!

Sherlock Holmes Book Signing: Debriefing

2009-05-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to report (even if it is a bit late) that the signing at Astro-Zombies was a big success. I signed over 100 copies of Sherlock Holmes #1! For my first ever book signing I would say that's pretty good. And got some good face time with some of Albuquerque's finest (comic book collectors that is). Check out some of the action!

That's yours truly with the book in question.

Talkin' some shop.

Signing is action!

The great detective and the good doctor - special appearance!

BOOK SIGNING THIS SATURDAY!!!

2009-04-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

This Saturday May 2 I'll be at Astro Zombie s in Albuquerque, NM doing a book signing for the release of Sherlock Holmes #1 Come get a signed copy of the great detective's best ever comic incarnation. It's also Free Comic Book Day which means, that's right, free comics! Sorry Sherlock is not free.

I'll be signing from 12 - 3 pm

Astro Zombie is located smack on the corner of Central Ave. and Richmond Dr.

Exclusive Dynamite Preview - 'Sherlock Holmes #1'

2009-04-25T06:34:00.000-07:00

Dynamite must want to you to read 'Sherlock Holmes #1', because they're shipping it a week early, so it will be in stores next week. Here's a preview... SHERLOCK HOLMES #1 Writers: Leah Moore & John Reppion Penciller/Inker: Aaron Campbell Cover: John Cassaday Colors: Tony Aviña Genre: Mystery Rating: Teen + Continuing their new exploration of literary icons, Dynamite Entertainment presents the ultimate mystery as they unveil Sherlock Holmes! Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion with reverence and a modern edge, artist Aaron Douglas completes the Victorian mood under the striking and iconic John Cassaday covers. Issue #1 begins the “Trial of Sherlock Holmes” which presents the great detective with an all-too personal quandary and explores the nature of the man and his world with a mix of refined ambiance, carefully crafted mystery and chilling suspense! 32 pages

Exclusive Dynamite Preview - 'Sherlock Holmes #1'

Exclusive Dynamite Preview - 'Sherlock Holmes #1' (24 April 2009 12:00 am ET)

Dynamite must want to you to read 'Sherlock Holmes #1', because they're shipping it a week early, so it will be in stores next week. Here's a preview... SHERLOCK HOLMES #1 Writers: Leah Moore & John Reppion Penciller/Inker: Aaron Campbell Cover: John Cassaday Colors: Tony Aviña Genre: Mystery Rating: Teen + Continuing their new exploration of literary icons, Dynamite Entertainment presents the ultimate mystery as they unveil Sherlock Holmes! Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion with reverence and a modern edge, artist Aaron Campbell completes the Victorian mood under the striking and iconic John Cassaday covers. Issue #1 begins the “Trial of Sherlock Holmes” which presents the great detective with an all-too personal quandary and explores the nature of the man and his world with a mix of refined ambiance, carefully crafted mystery and chilling suspense! 32 pages

Gorillas Riding Dinosaurs: Dynamite’s Sherlock Holmes

2009-04-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

Posted on March 25, 2009 - 11:36 AM by Michael May

Sherlock Holmes #1

Sherlock Holmes #1
Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion; Illustrated by Aaron Campbell
Dynamite; $3.50

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been really curious to see what Dynamite does with a SherlockHolmes series. I described myself as being “skeptically curious” about it and said that “I love Holmes when Doyle writes him, but other writers often portray him as either superhuman or a total ass. It’s rare that someone is able to match Doyle’s ability to balance both aspects of Holmes, but hopefully Leah Moore and John Reppion are up to it.”

When Dynamite offered to send me a PDF of the first issue, I couldn’t resist taking a peek. It’s not the format I’d prefer to read the story in (especially since the PDF was uncolored and I imagine that Campbell’s art will look fantastic in color), but curiosity beat the crap out of delayed gratification and so now I’ve read it.

"Forgot me bleedin hat"

I should’ve said that coloring will make Campbell’s art even more fantastic. His realistic, detailed linework reminds me of Butch Guice’s stuff on Ruse, which is wonderful to see and about the best you can hope for. He grounds Victorian England in the same way that Steve Epting grounds Captain America. This feels like a real place with real people doing real things. Campbell doesn’t draw every brick and every cobblestone or every line on an old man’s wrinkled face, but he gives the impression that he does.

He draws a great Holmes and Watson too. Holmes is equal parts dashing and arrogant; Watson is simultaneously good-natured and competent. These aren’t caricatures, they’re the characters as I imagine them when I read Doyle.

And - for the most part - the writing lives up to the art. Because some of the story is told in the form of letters and papers that were left blank on my PDF I had a hard time following everything, but I think I’ve got the gist of it. The story’s about a terrorist who’s blowing up buildings in London. Lots of political groups are claiming responsibility for the explosions, but when a former government official is threatened, Holmes is called in to help protect him and discover the bomber’s identity. This is all good and the exposition is made entertaining due to Moore and Reppion’s getting all the voices right for Holmes, Watson, and Inspector Lestrade. Again, this sounds like a Doyle story. So far…

I’ve got to put a spoiler warning up at the end of the paragraph, because I’m going to hint at what happens at the end of the issue. Though, the title of the story - “The Trial of Sherlock Holmes” - gives you a much bigger clue to what happens than I will. Still…

Minor Spoilers Below

My only concern about the issue is that Holmes ends it acting in a way that I can’t ever imagine Holmes acting. In fact, the only possible explanation is that he’s up to something and is behaving out-of-character on purpose in some attempt to flush out the villain. But even then I’m having a hard time convincing myself that Holmes would take this approach.

On the other hand, Moore and Reppion get the first nineteen pages so right that I have to believe they know what they’re doing. I don’t know their work from anything outside of this, but I want to trust them. So I’ve finished the issue the way I went into it: with skeptical curiosity. Now I’m going to have to read more of the story and cross my fingers that my trust’s not misplaced. Well played, Dynamite.

Three out of five scattered “clues” that may or may not have anything to do with solving the mystery. I love that stuff.

Stay alert now

Click here to view the original article

DRAWING THE DETECTIVE: CAMPBELL ON SHERLOCK HOLMES

2009-04-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

by Kiel Phegley

Posted: Thu, March 26th, 2009 at 11:28AM PST

"Sherlock Holmes" #1 on sale in May

Gathering the story of how artist Aaron Campbell came to draw Dynamite's May-launching "Sherlock Holmes" series presents almost as many small clue-rific details as one of the legendary detective's cases. Luckily, Campbell spilled the beans on his back story for CBR News, so we didn't have to sleuth up all the info ourselves.

"I knew at the age of seven that I wanted to be an artist, and as a kid all I cared about was drawing comics," explained Campbell, whose way to comic books took a slightly byzantine path in the long run, one worth following to: After shifting focus from comics to illustration at the Maryland Institute, College of Art and then at New York's School of Visual Arts, Campbell worked as a cover artist and illustrator for publications like "The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction," various role playing game companies, and Eos Books. But when he got back around to his first love, the gig came at the hands of some of his earliest comic book cronies.

"Do you remember that show that used to be on Discovery called 'Connections' where this old British man would come on and tell you why peanut butter is somehow the reason we have space flight or something crazy like that? Well my story is a bit like that except in my case it was Dungeons and Dragons that lead to my working for Dynamite," Cambell said. "Back in college I overheard a couple people that I was socially acquainted with talking about a D&D campaign they were involved in. I grew up playing and was eager to get back into it, so I asked them if there was room for one more. They directed me to Fil, who I knew from the illustration department, he directed to the DM, his roommate Rob. I asked if he had room for one more, he said sure, I rolled up a character, and Rob and Fil and I have been good friends ever since.

“Well, Rob and Fil have both gone on to have successful careers in comics. Rob is Robert Randle, brand manager at Diamond Comics and Fil is Filip Sablik, publisher at Top Cow. Rob and I, a few years back, started working on a creator-owned project for Archaia, and last summer at San Diego I showed the work to Fil, who introduced me to Nick [Barrucci] at Dynamite. So there you have it. And they say D&D leads to no good!"


In-progress pages from "Sherlock Holmes" #1

Where "Sherlock Holmes" leads, as written by the duo of Leah Moore and John Reppion, is into an all-new adventure titled "The Trial of Sherlock Holmes," which Aaron Campbell prepared for by revising the look of the classic detective. "First of all, I wanted to start from scratch, get rid of all the clichés and go back to the source," he said. "The Holmes we all think of today actually took a long time to evolve. If you look at the original illustrations of Sherlock by Sidney Paget that appeared in 'The Strand Magazine' when Doyle was writing the stories, he looked like any other Victorian gentleman. So I started from there.

“I see Holmes as the type of man that is fastidious in his appearance yet doesn’t want to draw attention to himself through ostentation, so I’m keeping his dress modest. There will be no deerstalkers or Inverness overcoats and magnifying glasses. I didn’t want to completely defy tradition though. I try to stay true to the basic look of Sherlock, the thin build, widow’s peak, long face, and piercing eyes. And if you really know your stuff you should be able to pick up on little references I make to mementos from the stories."

Campbell won't be comparing and contrasting his take on Holmes to that of cover artist John Cassaday. "It’s a great honor for me to be working with such a revered artist on my very first published book,” Campbell said. “I can’t imagine anyone more appropriate to be drawing the covers. I haven’t had a chance to talk with John about the project or characters but I think it’s important that the Sherlock he draws remains his own. We’re different artists with different approaches and fans are going to want to see Cassaday’s Holmes on those covers. It just adds another level of diversity to the book. "

When it comes to the story content itself, Campbell lighted upon his writers' take on the material immediately. "After reading the script for issue #1, I couldn’t wait for #2. I think that those looking for a faithful interpretation will find all the hallmarks that make the original tales so intriguing and yet they bring a distinct voice to the story that gives it modern relevance and adds depth to all the characters."


In-progress pages from "Sherlock Holmes" #1

Campbell noted that for the finished artwork, the devil is in the details -- as with all mystery thrillers, which fit his style to a T. ”My work has always been about the details, the little nuances that give a sense of life and history to the characters. In a story like this it is especially important because it is very much character driven and characters are more than just the sum of their physical appearances. Holmes wouldn’t be Holmes unless he lived in a cramped little Victorian apartment packed with all manner of mementos, brick-a-brack, and haberdash. These peculiar notions like his chemistry station, the violin he uses to clear his mind, and the sideboard where he keeps his whiskey and cocaine all lend depth and clarity to the character. I also really enjoy a good visual puzzle and in keeping with that classic use of foreshadowing I try to put things in the background here and there that give an indication of what is to come."

Readers can peak at Campbell's interpretation now before "Sherlock Holmes" debuts in May, from the man himself to the locations that will shape his world, including the artist's hands-down favorite New Scotland Yard. "We spend a bit of time there, as would be expected, and John and Leah are very concerned with maintaining a certain level of historical accuracy,” Campbell explained. “In the history of Scotland Yard, there have been three of them. In this story, we visit the second of these incarnations, a red and white candy-cane striped edifice that is now, in the present day, known as the Norman Shaw Building, after it’s original architect. I was able to find some good references of the building from a distance but not much in the way of close street level stuff. In addition, there are two buildings separated by a narrow street with arches running across that make up the whole complex. Well, in 1895, the smaller of these two buildings did not exist. So I get to add the fun task of editing that building out. In general, though, that’s the biggest challenge on this book. It takes place in a very specific place and time and it’s up to me to stay true to that."

In-progress page from "Sherlock Holmes" #1

Unlike his collaborators Moore & Reppion, Aaron Campbell didn't come to the series with a background in Holmes. "I’ve gotta come clean on this one. Before taking on this project, I had never actually read any of the Sherlock stories. I admit, it’s pretty sad, especially since I’m a big fan of Victorian literature," Campbell confessed. "I had a couple months, though, to get schooled before starting the drawing and began consuming everything I could about the great detective.

“Having said that, there’s not really one source I’ve found that sums up Sherlock for me. There is the character that Doyle created but he was kept at a bit of a distance from the audience through the voice of Watson who, in the opinion of Holmes, always dumbed down his investigations. What really started to give me a better sense of the character were the old radio broadcasts with Basil Rathbone. My connection to Sherlock became even stronger when I discovered the illustrations of Robert Fawcett in 'Harper’s Weekly' from the '50s. With Rathbone I could feel the motivations of the character and with the Fawcett illustrations I could see the world he exists in. From this I started to shape my own interpretation."

“Sherlock Holmes” #1 debuts in May from Dynamite Entertainment.

Click here to view the original article

Drawing the Detective: Aaron Campbell on Sherlock Holmes

2009-03-21T09:55:00.000-07:00

As we’ve been reporting, Dynamite Entertainment will be bringing Sherlock Holmes back to comics, illustrated by newcomer Aaron Campbell. We’ve spoken with the writing team of Leah Moore and John Reppion about the first arc of the series, entitled “The Trial of Sherlock Holmes,” and Dynamite President Nick Barrucci about bringing the character back.

Now, it’s Campbell’s turn.

Newsarama: Aaron, what landed you on Sherlock Holmes at Dynamite? What made the project something you couldn't say no to?

Aaron Campbell: I had the good fortune of being introduced to Nick Barucci last summer at San Diego Comic Con. He saw some samples I had and I guess he liked what he saw. After the con we started talking about some possible projects I could work on and eventually Sherlock Holmes came up. I think there are several reasons I couldn’t say no to this project at that point. First and foremost this was my big chance to break into the business that so many artists dream of but often never get and if I know anything it’s that fate doesn’t just go around handing out second chances. Second, I couldn’t think of a better project to begin my career in comics. The script that Leah and John wrote is really good and the time just seems ripe for the great detective’s comeback. There’s a movie on the way, PBS is airing all the old BBC episodes, I’m already starting to see Sherlock Holmes endcaps at bookstores, it’s seeping back into the collective consciousness.

NRAMA: That said, how familiar were you with the character(s) before this? Did you need a quick catch-up primer, or did you know largely enough about them that you could tackle the project without too much of a refresher?

AC: I’ve gotta come clean on this one. Before taking on this project I had never actually read any of the Sherlock stories. I admit, it’s pretty sad, especially since I’m a big fan of Victorian literature. So my image of Holmes was much like that of most people, deerstalker, magnifying glass, and a big hook nose. I had a couple months, though, to get schooled before starting the drawing and began consuming everything I could about the great detective. I’ve been reading all the original stories, listening to the old radio broadcasts with Basil Rathbone, looking at early Holmes illustration by artists like Sidney Paget and Robert Fawcett, and watching the BBC series.

At this point I feel like my life revolves around Holmes.

NRAMA: For you, what makes Holmes Holmes, artistically? What characteristics have to be there?

issue #1, page 2

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AC: Holmes has become an icon so there are certain things that if you change, you’re basically creating a new character that just happens to be named Holmes. I’m trying to stay true to the basic look of Sherlock that we’ve all come to imagine without entering into the territory of caricature. He has to have the thin build, widow’s peak, long face, and piercing eyes. I’ve gotten rid of all the clichés though. There will be no deerstalker caps, magnifying glasses, or comically large pipes. I think what really makes the character in the end are his mannerisms, the way he carries himself, the way he savors the moments when he can show off his abilities. He really does revel in sticking it to Watson when the opportunity presents itself.

NRAMA: Speaking of Holmes friend, let’s hit the same question, but for Watson. Obviously, he's a strong character in his own right, but yet, has to be secondary to Holmes. How do you show that, artistically?

AC: Watson is another icon and probably the source for our modern concept of the sidekick. He’s like a good multi-tool for Sherlock, when employed for the right purpose he can be indispensible but on his own he’s virtually useless. I see Watson a bit like the bobbies from Monte Python that stumble onto a scene and say, “What’s all this then?” Again, it’s all about his mannerisms. He is loyally and steadfastly Sherlock’s man and looks to him for the answers. Visually Watson won’t project the same sense of confidence as Holmes and at this point he’s a bit older and putting weight on whereas Holmes is still fit and agile. Hopefully this will come through in the book.

NRAMA: What about his world? Were you able to get into the look and feel of Victorian England?

AC: Finding good reference can be difficult, especially for the places that require more historical accuracy, but I think my style works well for the time period. Victorian England was a dim, cluttered place. The thing I’m really trying to get is the sense of contrast, not just in the inks but between the different environments. There wasn’t much in the way of in-betweens at the time. You had the immaculate clutter of the upper classes or the decrepit filthy clutter of the lower classes. Communicating that is what brings it to life for me.

NRAMA: Obviously, with any Sherlock Holmes story, there will be a good amount of exposition and conversation (along with a fair amount of action, of course...) - and we've often heard that those scenes are loathed by artists. How do you feel about them?

issue #1, page 6

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AC: I’m probably the opposite. I love the emotional play between characters and working with expression and mannerism. I think it’s during the so-called down times that you build the connection with the readers and get them invested in the characters. When the action arrives then they have a real stake in the outcome.

NRAMA: Has there been anything in the scripts from Leah and John so far that has caught you off guard or make you wish they hadn't put it in the script in the first place?

AC: I wouldn’t change anything. Like I said before finding good reference can be difficult but I enjoy the research. It strengthens my connection to the story. For instance we spend a bit of time at Scotland Yard as would be expected and John and Leah are very concerned with maintaining a certain level of historical accuracy. In the history of Scotland Yard there have been three of them. In this story we visit the second of these incarnations, a red and white candy-cane striped edifice that is now, in the present day, known as the Norman Shaw Building after it’s original architect. I was able to find some good references of the building from a distance but not much in the way of close street level stuff. In addition, there are two buildings separated by a narrow street with arches running across that make up the whole complex. Well, in 1895, the smaller of these two buildings did not exist. So I get to add the fun task of editing that building out. But it’s good because I have to really put myself there. It takes place in a very specific place and time and it’s up to me to stay true to that.

NRAMA: Well, finally then - what scene in #1 are you most proud of so far?

AC: Well, if I told you that I’d be giving the best part of the story away. But when readers get to the climax of issue one they’ll know.

Dynamite's Nick Barrucci Talks Sherlock Holmes

2009-03-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Newsarama has been telling you about Dynamite’s upcoming Sherlock Holmes series, written by Leah Moore and John Reppion with art by Aaron Campbell. We’ve spoken with Moore and Reppion about their take on the new stories they’ll be telling starring the world’s most famous detective, and today, we chat with Dynamite President Nick Barrucci about the new series and bringing Sherlock Holmes back to comics.

Newsarama: Nick, Dynamite has become known as the home for classic heroes such as the The Lone Ranger, Red Sonja, Zorro, The Man With No Name, The Phantom and Buck Rogers coming up. Now, with The Complete Dracula and Sherlock Holmes, you're moving into literary adaptations. What is behind this move?

Nick Barrucci: Both are great characters and two of the most recognizable ones in the world. With Dracula we saw an opportunity to complete the story. With Sherlock Holmes, it was a chance to revisit an archetype of modern superheroes, specifically the detective hero. We are always looking for interesting properties to work on and this time it took us to these great characters.

NRAMA: Why make Sherlock Holmes the second of these literary outings, after Dracula?

NB: It wasn’t planned that one series would follow the other, it just turned out that way.Dracula was moving along and Sherlock Holmes was far enough along that we felt we could announce it.

NRAMA: You're adapting Bram Stoker's originalDracula novel (with additions) for The Complete Dracula, but here, you're telling new stories. Why the difference? Why not adapt the full, or at least the better known Holmes stories here?

NB: Leah, John and Aaron have a take on Sherlock that can only be told though new stories. It draws on the previous ones but is refreshing and exciting.

NRAMA: What led you to Leah and John for this project?

NB: Leah and John were well into The Complete Dracula when we approached them about Sherlock Holmes. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for the character convinced us that they could bring something new to Sherlock. And they’re proving us right, looking at the pages. It's quite elementary.

NRAMA: Same question, but for Aaron Campbell?

NB:We were actually talking to Aaron about another project and realized his style would be much better suited for Sherlock Holmes. It's really exciting to have Aaron on board; he is really doing a phenomenal job.

NRAMA: Obviously, it's a good time for Holmes fans, as Robert Downey Jr. is starring in Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes. Are you looking to piggyback on the film's buzz a little, at least?

issue #1, page 1

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NB: Sherlock Holmes has seen many interpretations over the years. And from what I've seen, it looks like it has huge potential. If an upcoming film hits at the right time (and we know that some films get moved around, so you can't bank on it) and helps bring more attention to the character and specifically our series then I’ll take it. Our goal is to tell a great story featuring one of the greatest characters in literary history.

NRAMA: What are your larger plans for Sherlock Holmes at Dynamite? More miniseries with John & Leah after The Trial?

NB: Right now, the focus is on getting this one out to the fans - it's a great story. If the response is positive we’d tell more.

NRAMA: Finally - you have the rights to The Lone Ranger, Zorro, The Phantom, Red Sonja Sherlock Holmes, Dracula, Buck Rogers and a few others here and there - making up a pretty impressive, and "pulpy" universe. Can we just say two words...cross over?

NB: Let's see how we do on this one story. I've never shied away from cross-overs but I think we’ll look at that further down the line.

Sherlock Holmes #1 is due in stores in May

Bringing Sherlock Holmes Back to Comics: Moore & Reppion

2009-03-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Go to

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/030209-Holmes-Moore-Reppion.html

to see the original story.

The game is afoot, indeed.

Sherlock Holmes #1, page 1

ENLARGE IMAGEAs was announced by Dynamite Entertainment at the New York Comic Con, Sherlock Holmes is coming back to comics.

The return will be handled by writers Leah Moore and John Reppion, with interior artist Aaron Campbell and cover artist John Cassaday in the May-debuting storyline, “The Trial of Sherlock Holmes.”

For the writers, writing the Sherlock Holmes series at Dynamite Entertainment will be their second time adapting a classic literary character, as Moore and Reppion are also adapting Bram Stoker’s Dracula in The Complete Dracula with artist Colton Worley beginning in April.

So what does the writing duo have planned?

We asked.

Newsarama: John and Leah, first off, what came first for the two of you at Dynamite,Dracula or Sherlock Holmes?

John Reppion: If my memory serves me correctly I think they both originally came up around the same time (which would have been late 2007). Dracula just sort of took over because it was so research intensive. The time we had between doing Dracula issues was mostly taken up with writing The Darkness vs. Eva and Battle for Atlantis [which appeared in Savage Tales] as well as other bits and bobs we had going on aside from our Dynamite work. All of which meant that we had a long time to think about the Holmes book and exactly what we were going to do with it.

NRAMA: It seems that, for something like Holmes, there's a gulf between having it put on the table in front of you, or initially considering it, and then deciding that it's the thing to do. What influenced your decision to go ahead with this?

Leah Moore: More than anything it was the challenge, the throwing down of a gauntlet to see if were able to do it. It's a big task to come up with a Sherlock Homes story, let alone a series, and even if you get all the characters right, and the mise-en-scene right, you still have the huge great problem of having to construct a fiddly twiddly plot, worthy of the great detective. We were starting Dracula at the time, and that seemed to be the big difficult project to be honest, we could see the exact hugeness of that task, so making something up seemed like it might be totally achievable.

Sherlock Holmes #1, page 2

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NRAMA: That said, The Trial of Sherlock Holmes is, obviously by the title, an all-new story. What were some of the thoughts that went through your head(s) as you thought about writing new Holmes stories? Obviously, there've been plenty over the decades, but still, with Holmes, there seems to be a pretty high expectation from the fans. Was there any intimidation about that? After all, Holmes fans tend to make Doctor Who fans say, "Man, those guys are obsessed..."

JR: On the one hand the Holmes series gives us our creative freedom back where Dracula had us sticking to a pre-existing plot ands set of characters. In that sense it's quite refreshing. On the other hand, as you say, there's a very high standard to live up to; expectations are going to be high. The thing about Conan Doyle's stories is, there's a bit of distance between the supposed facts and what you're reading anyway because most of the Holmes stories are supposed to be written by Doctor Watson. The good doctor isn't necessarily relating the facts exactly and Holmes himself isn't always pleased with the way his companion writes about their cases. In The Adventure of the Copper Beeches Sherlock actually says "You have degraded what should have been a course of lectures into a series of tales". That is our "in" to the world of Homes; the fact that there are other, more complex layers beyond the short stories that we're all so used to.

NRAMA: Getting into the story a little, when and where, related to Doyle's canon does this story take place, and what is Holmes on trial for?

LM: Our story takes place after The Adventure of the Empty House so after the Reichenback falls, after Holmes' return. It's set in London, so a lot of the same ground our characters tread in Dracula really. I don't think I can say too much about what he is on trial for, but safe to say it's something big! Circumstances lead him into a sticky situation, and then he only has his wits to rely on. Luckily Sherlock Holmes has more wits than most!

NRAMA: What can you tell us about the structure of the story? Just looking at the title, a trial seems to be a chance to bring in a relatively large cast of well-known characters while playing a little Rashomon with a case...

JR: Well, as Leah has said, we don't really want to get into specifics about the trial at this stage (it's a word with more than one meaning anyway isn't it?) but, as a title alone, “The Trial of Sherlock Holmes” works brilliantly. It sort of wrong foots you and makes you wonder how that could happen and that's exactly what a good mystery should do and what we're doing our very best to write. I think people in general are a bit fed up of the sort of twists we get in Lost or Heroes or wherever; where the writers just move the goal posts constantly making each new supposed revelation all too easy to undo with another twist. We want to try to deliver more of a classic, Hitchcock-ian thriller. It's no easy task mind you.

Sherlock Holmes #1, page 6

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NRAMA: Michael Chabon wrote an essay in The New York Review of Books about post-Doyle Holmes stories, and how vibrant the character and Doyle's influence can be seen as being given the attention and stories that Holmes still inspires. That said, how do you approach the character and even the style in which you approach him? Doyle's stories were clearly Doyle - in writing new Holmes tales, do you try to move your style and tone towards his, or just write as you would normally?

LM: We have to write in our own style because we are writing a comic not prose, but the dialogue we try and give the classic Doyle flavour. It's the structure that makes it or breaks it as a Doyle style story, and we are really working hard to make it as authentic as possible. We really want people to have that same feeling, and then when the resolution comes, not to be annoyed because it’s just a spurious tacked on surprise ending, but delight that it's a proper answer to everything that has happened in the series. God after writing that, I really hope we can pull it off!

NRAMA: When we spoke about The Complete Dracula, you said that there was a fair amount of research that had to be done before you felt comfortable moving forward. How much research, comparatively speaking, did you have to do for Holmes?

JM: The research has been a lot less intensive because there's a lot more to absorb; we can't just sit down and read a single book from cover to cover. However, ever since we first discovered the joys of internet radio and radio play archives, one of our dual obsessions has been listening to audio adaptations of Sherlock Holmes mysteries. I used to have videos filled with the old black & white Basil Rathbone Holmes films which I'd taped from late night TV and we realized that we were both big fans of the UK television series which ran from the 1980s into the 90s. Happily, unlike Dracula, Doyle's stories have largely remained uncorrupted in their adaptations so we've found that we're actually a lot more familiar with the cannon than we'd first imagined. There's still plenty of reading up to be done of course and Leslie Klinger's New Annotated Sherlock Holmesbooks have already proved to be worth their weight in gold.

NRAMA: As we're hearing through the drips and drabs coming out about Guy Ritchie'sSherlock Holmes film, he's adapting things a little, and giving the character some modern touches, as well as a little more action. Do you feel the same pressures, or are you doing the same for adapting Holmes to comics? After all, the novels were quite...cerebral, which can be tough to both portray in comics while keeping people reading, especially when the guy living next door to Sherlock Holmes on the comic rack will have explosions and punching...

LM: Well we have taken out of the first person narration for a start, so John Watson doesn't have to see and experience everything for himself. We can go and be with other characters, follow them for a bit and then rejoin Holmes and Watson when it's the right time to. That's a modern approach to it I suppose, losing the narration.

Sherlock Holmes #1, cover by John Cassaday

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JR: Although the novels are “cerebral” there is a fair amount of action in the Conan Doyle stories. Naturally, we’ll see that more dynamic side of Holmes’ character and investigations in our comic too. He is a master of Baritsu after all, and can certainly handle himself in a tight spot.

LM: The film is being partly shot right here in Liverpool, using some of the Georgian terraces you will see in many other Victorian dramas. We give good Victorian here obviously. If Robert Downey Jr and Jude Law need any help with their roles then they only have to knock on our door and ask!

NRAMA: Looking ahead, did this story suggest more for you, or do you already have a follow-up planned?

JR: We haven't finished writing the series yet so maybe something will suggest its self closer to the end. When we began the project we said we wanted to play the whole thing straight and make it as faithful as possible.

Maybe, if we did do a follow up, we could take it off in another direction a bit more. That's the only problem though; you've already got great stories out there like Neil Gaiman's A Study in Emerald and intricate, wonderful stuff like Jose Phillip Farmer's Wold Newton Family. On reflection, maybe we'd better leave all that literary cross-over stuff to the father-in-law?

SHERLOCK HOLMES IS BACK ON THE CASE AT DYNAMITE

2009-02-26T08:12:00.000-08:00

Official Press Release

Dynamite Entertainment has announced that they will continue their growing exploration of literary icons this May by unraveling the ultimate mystery with the debut of a new comic book series featuring the ultimate detective -- Sherlock Holmes!

Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion, Sherlock Holmes #1 begins the "Trial of Sherlock Holmes", a NEW story which presents the great detective with an all-too personal quandary and explores the nature of the man and his world with a mix of refined ambiance, carefully crafted mystery and chilling suspense! From gaslight to deerstalker cap, the Victorian mood of the series is designed with reverence and a modern edge and presented flawlessly by the artistic talents of Aaron Campbell -- and it all happens under striking and iconic covers by Eisner Award Winning artist, John Cassaday, with colors by Eisner Award Winning colorist, Laura Martin.

Moore and Reppion are currently featured in the pages of Dynamite's Dracula adaptation, while artist Aaron Campbell is the newest artistic sensation to make his home at Dynamite.

About the new Holmes series, Dynamite President and Publisher Nick Barrucci exclaimed, "That's right, folks, the comic racks are going to have to make room for another great detective! The original detective! Already John [Reppion] and Leah [Moore] proved their ability to bring literary icons into comics, especially in and around the Victorian Age. So fans can rest assured that Holmes… and Watson… are in capable hands. What's more, fans are going to love Aaron Campbell's interior art, as he visually re-creates the world of Sherlock Holmes and the Victorian Age. And with John Cassaday providing covers… well, it's as our detective says, ‘Elementary, my dear Watson,'!"

Look for the thrills and mystery to begin unraveling this May! Sherlock Holmes will be a full-color series.

Aaron Campbell's blog for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge

Work schedule September 1

Work Schedule August 29

MY BIG ASS DRAWING

PHOENIX COMIC CON

NEW YORK COMIC CON

NOCTURNE 05

NOCTURNE 04

NOCTURNE 03

NOCTURNE 02

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

NOCTURNE 01

Green Hornet Sketches

Vampirella sketch time!

ERIN GO BRAGH!

GREEN HORNET: YEAR ONE #1 TO SHIP 3 WEEKS EARLY!

Go Back to YEAR ONE With GREEN HORNET, Wagner, & Campbell

Aaron Campbell: How I Draw GREEN HORNET: YEAR ON

GREEN HORNET #1 FCBD 2010 EDITION

MATT WAGNER TAKES ON "GREEN HORNET"

The Darkness cover piece

New Green Hornet Drawing

THIS SATURDAY!

SHERLOCK HOLMES #4 PREVIEW

SHERLOCK HOLMES #4 PREVIEW

Review: Sherlock Holmes #3

Review: The Trial of Sherlock Holmes #2 (of 5

June 30th, 2009Author Henry Chamberlain

Another review snipet

Review: Sherlock Holmes #2

--by Stephen Schleicher

EXCLUSIVE: CASSADAY'S SHERLOCK HOLMES #4

by CBR News Team, Editor

Other Nice Review

Holmes Sweet Holmes

Review of Sherlock Holmes from the Philadelphia Daily News

New adventure with the master of mystery: 'Sherlock Holmes'

Hypergeek Examines Sherlock Holmes #1. Being an Honest Dissection of a Contemporary Classic

Here's a great review of the first issue of Sherlock Holmes! Thanks to Hypergeek.

Sherlock Holmes Book Signing: Debriefing

BOOK SIGNING THIS SATURDAY!!!

Exclusive Dynamite Preview - 'Sherlock Holmes #1'

Exclusive Dynamite Preview - 'Sherlock Holmes #1'

Gorillas Riding Dinosaurs: Dynamite’s Sherlock Holmes

Posted on March 25, 2009 - 11:36 AM by Michael May

DRAWING THE DETECTIVE: CAMPBELL ON SHERLOCK HOLMES

by Kiel Phegley

Drawing the Detective: Aaron Campbell on Sherlock Holmes

Dynamite's Nick Barrucci Talks Sherlock Holmes

Bringing Sherlock Holmes Back to Comics: Moore & Reppion

SHERLOCK HOLMES IS BACK ON THE CASE AT DYNAMITE

June 30th, 2009
Author Henry Chamberlain