Posted in: Comics, Recent Updates | Tagged: Alex + Ada, Comics, entertainment, image comics, Jonathan Luna, Sarah Vaughn

Alex + Ada Creators Jonathan Luna And Sarah Vaughn Talk Inspiration And Evil Robot Apocalypses

By: Sammie Rice

Whenever someone asks me what new comic book series to read I usually have a few go-to answers. Do they love The Walking Dead T.V. show? Here's the first volume of the comic it's based on! Do you want to see a less grim and dark version of Gotham? Here is Gotham Academy #1! But sometimes customers don't know exactly what they want. Sometimes they just want something new, fresh and a little different. For this type of customer, I put a copy of Alex + Ada volume one in their hands. If you aren't already reading this beautiful series, you can catch up in single issues or the also beautifully collected trade paperback. The story follows a young man named Alex who reluctantly receives a female android, Ada, as a gift from his grandmother and eventually decides he wants to give her free will to make her own choices and live life the way she pleases. This dramatic, romantic science fiction story slowly finds a way to completely capture your heart.

If you are already reading this series, then I have a HUGE treat for you! I interviewed the creators of Alex + Ada, Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn, and asked the really hard-hitting questions like what their favorite panel is and who they would team up with in the robot apocalypse. Check it out!

Sammie Rice: I have been wondering if there was specific inspiration for the creation of Alex + Ada. Was there a specific book, movie or otherwise that helped you bring the concept of this book to life?

Jonathan Luna: The biggest inspiration is probably related to some experiences I've had in relationships. However, that didn't really manifest into the main point of the book, ultimately, as Sarah and I headed towards the theme of individual rights. As for other works, I've always been a big fan of science fiction.

Sarah Vaughn: I had an experience with a robot that completely changed my point of view, right when we really started working on Alex + Ada. I got to interact with a Telenoid. It was only for a minute, but my heart stopped. I knew it wasn't alive. I knew the voice talking back to me was another human's from across the room. But I thought, "I'm feeling a connection with this creepy little robot. What is happening?"

SR: How has working on Alex + Ada differed from other projects you have worked on?

JL: Mainly, it's working with a new person–Sarah. However, the duties and process is very similar to how I worked with my brother, Joshua. Also, Alex + Ada is the first completely digital book I've done. That said, my previous books were still heavily digital. I used pencil and ink, but I edited them digitally.

SR: One of the most enticing things about this world is that it seems to be in a possible near future. Was this the intention?

JL: Absolutely. I like to create grounded worlds that feel like it could really be happening today or within reach. It makes it feel so much more amazing and relatable.

SR: An important part of this comic is that humanoid robots are part of everyday life. Since they don't quite exist yet, did you have to do any technological research prior, or during, the writing process?

SV:  A lot of time went into research, but there comes a point when it can overwhelm and even hinder creativity. Eventually, you need to start writing. It's hard not to get bogged down by logistics and facts. I don't stop reading articles or watching documentaries, and if I ever have questions I'll look for answers. But personally, I could research forever and never actually put pen to paper. I need to force myself to stop. My home library is a testament to that.

SR: We have seen parts of the world through a few news broadcasts but will we ever have our story change locations outside of Washington D.C.?

SV: Without giving too much away, our focus has mostly been the Washington, DC area. But it's possible we'll have a change of scene.

SR: Is there a particular issue or moment that is your favorite?

JL: I really like the process of Ada becoming sentient in the motel in issue four.

SV:  I waited a long time for us to get to issue eight's page sixteen. I'm a bit of a perv. I thought Jon drew that page perfectly.

SR: This may be the most important question: Who would you want to accompany you in an Evil Robot Apocalypse and why? Alex, Ada or Alex's Grandma?

SV: Oh, Ada. Hands down. Katherine could probably smooth talk us through clan clashes. Alex has a fair amount of resilience and problem-solving skills that could keep us alive. But Ada's a robot. I like to fight fire with fire.

JL:  Ada. Any kind of Apocalypse could use a little sweetness.

SR: For those who may be on the fence about reading this comic, what would you tell them to really reel them in?

SV:  I'd just hand over the first volume, and if they didn't like it, they didn't like it. Not everyone goes for everything, and I get that. But if you like drama, introspection, romance, and gadgets, then you might like Alex + Ada.

JL: I'd ask them, "Would you have an android as a romantic companion?"

SR: And lastly, where can our readers find you on the internet machine?

SV: My website is www.Savivi.com, and I'm on Twitter as @sarahvictoriav.

JL: I can be found at www.jonathanluna.com and @jonathanlunacom.

Thanks again to Sarah Vaughn and Jonathan Luna for this wonderful interview.

Make sure to pick up the latest issue of this fantastic series at your friendly, neighborhood comic book store or you can purchase it digitally!

If you are so inclined, you can read my review of Alex + Ada #10 here.

Sammie Rice is a Florida comic book store employee and proud Valkyrie. She enjoys long strolls through the park in Pterodactyl-free zones. Find me on Twitter and Instagram: @SammieReads

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