Posted in: Comics | Tagged: entertainment, Jean-Francois Beaulieu, Joshua Cozine, kickstarter, Matt Wahlquist, Ryan Winn, The Rise

The Rise – In Three Words: Future Ninja Counterterrorism

Published Fri, 13 Dec 2013 19:00:15 -0600

by Dan Wickline

Last updated Sat, 14 Dec 2013 06:23:15 -0600

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Matt Wahlquist writes for Bleeding Cool

If I had to describe my new comic book series, The RISE, in 3 words, that's what they'd be.

I can think of some more though: ACTION. POLITICAL INTRIGUE. MYSTERY. And did I mention ACTION?

The RISE Issue #1 is a thrill-fueled first step into the world of the near future, where advances in AI and bio-engineering are making the impossible in reality. And not only are our elite, special ops forces like the APEX Division benefitting from these advances, but dangerous people around the world are too.

For example, when Mexican drug lord, Guillermo "El Gordo" Martinez is somehow able to kidnap US Senator James Ramsey, it is up to APEX Agents, Neil Traynor and Sam Frey to rescue the senator without being detected. But when a seemingly chance meeting with an enigmatic young man with impressive abilities threatens to blow the mission, will Traynor and Frey be able to save the senator without causing a global incident? And who is REALLY behind the kidnapping plot?

Let's back up a second.

The RISE is an ongoing comic book series that I've been concepting for about 2 years now. In total, the series should run for about 125 issues and has a definitive ending. The story began as a thought experiment that blossomed into something too intriguing for me to ignore, and it is finally about to begin.

The team of artists I've assembled for this project is nothing short of amazing. If you don't recognize the names Ryan Winn, Jean-Francois Beaulieu and Joshua Cozine, Google them. I'll wait.

See what I mean? Unbelievable talent. Ryan Winn is heading up the art team, handling the pencils and inks for the book. He is an industry professional with credits that include Batman, Spawn and The Darkness. Jean-Francois Beaulieu is providing the amazing colors for The RISE Issue #1. Jean-Francois also has an impressive list of industry credits to his name, including Avengers Arena and Marvel's Oz books. Joshua Cozine, another talented comics professional, whose resume includes tenures at Top Cow and as EIC of Stranger Comics rounds out the team as our letterer.

Of course, having a great story and incredible art are essential, but in order to get this thing produced, I need support. If you liked what you've seen here please consider heading over to the Kickstarter and contributing to the cause. While you are there, I hope you'll take the time to find out more about my project by watching the Kickstarter video for The RISE Issue #1. The video, produced by Brandon Russ, gives you an inside look at APEX Agents Neil Traynor and Sam Frey's mission to rescue US Senator James Ramsey in Mexico.

So after Issue #1, what comes next? Well, I've thought of a few more words. TWISTS. BETRAYAL. ROMANCE. And DEATH. All I can promise is the best thrill-ride of your life.