There are a lot more people interested in drawing comics than anyone ever imagined.
That’s what the folks behind a search for new comic creators discovered when they organized a “Comic Book Challenge” tied into the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con.
Organizers, which include NBC39 and the Platinum Studios comics company – which publishes comics like Men in Black – figured since the contest is being held in conjunction with Comic-Com, most of the contestants would be from the San Diego area or at least visiting the Con.
However, the contest has drawn entries from as far away as Singapore. Now, the top 50 ideas submitted will be put to the test today in front of the NBC39 studios by a panel of judges that includes actor Ving Rhames.
The challenge takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be hosted by KNSD personality Kimberly King.
Platinum Studios chairman Scott Rosenberg – who is also one of the judges – says he only needs one paragraph description to tell if a comic will work and he’s looking for comics that will, as he puts it, “feel like they could fuel other media, whether that be movies or games.”
Not all of the comics have to feature superheroes. As Rosenberg points out, “Men In Black is as far away from superheroes as you get.”
The winner of the Comic Book Challenge will have his or her comic turned into a book but Rosenberg says he’d be surprised if several of the comics submitted aren’t also worthy as well.
Although it takes months for a comic book to be completed, Rosenberg hopes to have the winner’s book out before next year’s Con.
Go to www.comicbookchallenge.com for more information.
– DAVID MOYE