Dan DiDio and Jim Calafiore join forces for Mad Cave Studios’ revival and reimagining of the classic cartoon series
Embark on the return of DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH, an exciting reimagining of the beloved adventure series, coming soon from Mad Cave Studios.
Inspired by the classic Defenders of the Earth cartoon series, writer Dan DiDio, best known for his ten years serving as co-publisher of DC Entertainment Prolific comics, along with celebrated artist Jim Calafiore (Exiles, Secret Six), join forces in this groundbreaking comic, sure to shake up the universe.
The newly-minted Defenders of the Earth comic is not just about superheroes; it’s about the human struggles and triumphs behind the masks—drawing inspiration from contemporary issues and timeless themes, while tackling relevant topics of gender, familial expectations, and the ethical dilemmas of modern heroism. With society at a crossroads and betrayal lurking in the shadows, the fate of Earth hangs in the balance. Each character grapples with their own demons, forging their own path while honoring the legacy of those who came before them.
DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH #1
(1:10 RETAILER INCENTIVE)
Cover Artist: Andy Clarke
DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH
Writer: Dan DiDio – Artist: Jim Calafiore
Letterer: Carlos M. Mangual
Release Date: August 14th, 2024
“It has been such an exciting journey to work with Mad Cave and their talent as they reintroduce our classic heroes, who inspired the modern-day superhero genre, to new audiences,’ said Christina Nix Lynch, senior director, domestic licensing, King Features. “This comic launch is extremely special as it’s the first time the Defenders universe has been introduced through fresh storytelling and gives our fans the opportunity to see how our core characters interact as a team.”
“As a fan of the original animated series, I was excited by the opportunity to work on this title. I’m hoping to build on some of the show’s classic elements and move them in new directions while exploring the personalities and lives of the characters that make the series great.
One of the best aspects of the series was finding a way to unite the show’s four but disparate, iconic stars following the end of their war with Ming. What I think sets it apart from other books featuring Flash Gordon, Mandrake, The Phantom, and Lothar is the added generational aspect of the story. That’s the fun part of writing Defenders of the Earth. The father/ son relationships of Flash and Rick, Lothar and LJ, father/ daughter with The Phantom and Jenna, and mentor/ protege with Mandrake and Kshir are really the heart of the story. What makes and breaks these families is key to saving the world from a new and more deadly challenge.
” – Writer, Dan DiDio
“I don’t say I’m so old that I read the original strips back in the day, but every artist knows these classic characters and have been influenced by them and their creators. A lot of great artists have worked on them over the years. The challenge, and the fun, is having my name added to the list.”
– Artist, Jim Calafiore
Defenders of the Earth is an epic journey of courage, sacrifice, and redemption, reminding us all that the greatest battles are fought not with fists, but with heart. Fans of the original series will find plenty to love while blazing a trail for the next generation of heroes.
Since 1934, Alex Raymond’s Flash Gordon has captured the imagination of readers worldwide with its dynamic storytelling, captivating artwork, and memorable characters.
Defenders of the Earth #1 from Mad Cave Studios in partnership with brand owner, King Features, hits shops Aug. 14th.
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