You’re Entering The Twilight Zone with a New Comic Book Series from IDW
You unlock this door with the key of imagination. Beyond it is another dimension. It is a dimension of shadow and substance, of things and ideas. You’ve just crossed over into The Twilight Zone. This September, IDW Publishing is opening the door once again, not on your television screen, but in the pages of an all-new anthology comic book series. This is truly exciting news for fans of classic sci-fi and horror. The iconic series that has captivated audiences for over six decades is making a grand return. We here at Comic Book Addicts could not be more thrilled for these new comics.
This new series promises to capture the very essence of the original show. Each issue will present a brand-new, self-contained story. This episodic format allows some of the industry’s most innovative storytellers to offer their unique visions. Furthermore, in a brilliant nod to the show’s origins, every single issue will be presented in stark, terrifying black and white. This choice is more than just a stylistic one; it aims to replicate the moody, atmospheric feeling that made the television series a timeless masterpiece. The publisher, IDW Publishing, is launching this series under its horror imprint, IDW DARK, signaling a commitment to the unsettling and thought-provoking tales the franchise is known for. This journey into the unknown is one every horror fan should be anticipating.
A New Dimension of Storytelling in The Twilight Zone Comic Book
The first issue of The Twilight Zone comic book will arrive this September. It comes from the talented minds of writer Dan Watters, known for his work on Batman: Dark Patterns, and artist Morgan Beem of Swamp Thing: Twin Branches fame. Their collaboration is set to kick off the series with a truly mind-bending tale. Watters himself describes the source material as a “cultural titan and a North Star in the strangest skies.” He emphasizes that the show reveals uncomfortable truths about the human heart, a theme he and Beem aim to explore. Their story will tap into that unique space between anger and unnerving suspense that is forever the domain of The Twilight Zone.
Morgan Beem shares this reverence for the source material. “I have long been a fan of all horror,” she stated, “but creepy stories that slowly build to unnerve you have always been first in my heart.” Beem notes that the original series mastered the feeling of wrongness, of things being slightly out of place. This is precisely the feeling she intends to capture with her art. She hopes her deep love for all things creepy will flow through the pages, creating a story that might not shock you instantly, but will certainly linger in your thoughts late at night. The incredible comic book covers revealed so far hint at the unsettling beauty she will bring to the project.
Following this debut, the series will feature a lineup of other acclaimed creators. Readers can look forward to tales crafted by Tom Scioli, James Stokoe, Nate Powell, and Francesco Francavilla. Scioli expressed a lifelong ambition to write a Twilight Zone story, acknowledging the high standards set by the original. “It pushed the limits of what you could do in the medium of commercial television,” Scioli commented, “and now we’re going to push the comic book medium to the breaking point… and see what lies beyond.” This ambition to innovate while honoring a classic is a recurring theme among the creators.
Series co-editor Ellen Boener reassures fans that these comics are for anyone who wished for more episodes. She adds, “We’re capturing the silver screen nostalgia alongside the heart-rending humanity.” Every detail, from the black and white design to a stunning set of connecting covers by Francesco Francavilla, is a love letter to the show. Each issue promises to be a unique door into that other dimension, with some of the most fascinating minds in comics as the guides. This approach ensures that both longtime fans and newcomers will find something to appreciate. For anyone who follows the world of comics, this is a series to watch.
The first issue of THE TWILIGHT ZONE is set to go on sale Wednesday, September 24th. The pre-order deadline is August 18th, so be sure to let your local comic shop know you want to take this journey.
Creative Team for Issue #1:
- Writer: Dan Watters
- Artist: Morgan Beem
- Cover A: Morgan Beem
- Cover B (Connecting): Francesco Francavilla
- Variant RI 1:50: Dani
- Editor: Ellen Boener
In conclusion, the return of The Twilight Zone as a comic book anthology is a monumental event for fans. With a clear respect for the source material and a roster of incredible talent, IDW Publishing is poised to deliver a series that is both a nostalgic tribute and a fresh exploration of one of television’s greatest creations. The commitment to black and white art and self-contained stories ensures that the spirit of Rod Serling’s original vision will be felt on every page.
What are your favorite Twilight Zone episodes? Head over to our Twitter page and let us know what kind of stories you hope to see in this new comic book series!
