I know I’ve said this often the past month or so, but this week is going to be very slow for genre fans in comics as there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot to fill the void that is the ‘other 6 days in your week’. Of course you could always stick with some safe choices such as “THE LIGHT” issue #2, “VINCENT PRICE PRESENTS” #19, “GHOST PROJEKT” #2, ect…but if you are looking for something new to sink* your teeth into IDW Publishing’s newest title that launches this week, “BRAM STOKER’S DEATH SHIP”. Read on for the full 5 page preview, and as always, why you should care.

*Oh, very bad pun, and this time, it was honestly not intended. Scouts honor!

WRITTEN BY: Gary Gerani
ILLUSTRATIONS BY: Stuart Sayger
COVERS BY: Cliff Nielsen

“An untold story from the greatest vampire story ever written, Bram Stoker’s Death Ship explores the harrowing, nightmarish sea voyage from Transylvania to England. One by one, the terrified crewmembers of the Russian schooner Demeter vanish, victims of the unearthly lifeform that lies comatose in the ship’s hold during daylight hours. Only Demeter’s seasoned captain, a proud man of the sea, remains to confront the voracious monster that has preyed upon his crew by moonlight…”

WHY YOU SHOULD CARE

The first thing that should jump out at any horror fan worth their weight in salt is the name Gary Gerani. The scribe is probably best known to fans among the genre as being the mastermind behind the cult classic “PUMPKINHEAD” as well as another genre film (albeit in no way, shape, or form a classic) “VAMPIRELLA”. The issue will be the kick-off of the 4 part mini that is based upon the work of Bram Stoker. Gerani’s tale takes readers on a not-so-fantastic voyage aboard the Russian schooner, Demeter. As the story progresses (and the crew members ranks lower) it soon becomes apparent that someone, or something, lying deep within the ship’s hold is the cause.

Content wise Gerani has promised readers that he will not disappoint when it comes to the gratuity, and if the preview above is any indication of what is in store, then I would say he is good on his word. Based on what we are hearing the story is going to be a completely dark and mature piece of genre fare that should entice many a fans. Being that the story itself is only based upon Stoker’s it will also be interesting to see just what sort of direction the Captain decides to take the ship as the series progresses. (I’m full of these things today)

Aside from the writing end of things, painter and all around amazing artist Cliff Nielsen will be donating his work on the cover art for each issue providing readers with some nice eye candy to go with the the read. On the other end of that we also have series artist Stuart Sayger who has worked with everyone from DC Comics, to Warner bros, to Lego! The artist is wildly known for his very artistically detailed style that incorporates elements of paints and water colors into comic book illustrations. (Think of the old Mark Twain picture books your parents used to read you, or make you read, and then twist them around to be 100% less kid friendly) His most well known work in the genre would be “SHIVER IN THE DARK”, which is by its own accord an awesome piece of work, and a story that deserves much more recognition than it has gotten.

All in all the formula for “DEATH SHIP” is sound, and for all intents and purposes it should be an automatic success. However, as we have learned the hard way many a times, there is no such thing as a ‘sure thing’ in this industry, and in a business as cluttered and cutthroat as comics are nowadays only time can tell. I would say that based upon the other choices out there this week though that this is most definitely the most intriguing pick. So go ahead and give “BRAM STOKER’S DEATH SHIP” a spin, see what you think, and then be sure to stop back in and let us know what you thought. Who knows, it just might live up to the pedigree that has been set behind it.

“BRAM STOKERS: DEATH SHIP” Sails Into A Store Near You This Wednesday From IDW Publishing! (MSRP-$3.99)