Broken Frontier

As announced in May this year, in October AAM/Markosia Enterprises will release Beowulf: The Graphic Novel. Written by Stephen L. Stern (best known as one of the creators of the cult favourite Zen Intergalactic Ninja ) and illustrated by Christopher Steininger, the graphic novel is a cinematic retelling of the Beowulf story that remains faithful to the original material while adapting it for a modern audience.

However, AAM/Markosia managing partner and publisher Harry Markos announced today that in addition to Beowulf: The Graphic Novel, the company will also launch a new Beowulf mini-series. Entitled Tales of Beowulf, the three-issue series will debut in January 2008.

"In previewing the graphic novel at the Bristol International Comic Expo, it became clear to us that there was a strong demand for new Beowulf stories," Markos said. "With the upcoming movie and various adaptations, fans are hugely excited about all things Beowulf."

Stephen L. Stern, author of the graphic novel will be returning to write the new series.

"This is something I'm as excited about as the fans," said Stern. "Beowulf is, simply, the first and greatest 'sword and sorcery' hero of them all."

The series will focus on the years between when Beowulf returned to his native Geatland after defeating both Grendel and his mother, and when he fights his ultimate battle against the fire-breathing dragon at the end of the epic poem.

"The structure of the poem is such that something like fifty years of Beowulf's life was simply not detailed," said Stern. "This creates the perfect opportunity to write stories that fit directly into the story's continuity."

Beowulf: The Graphic Novel artist Christopher Steininger will also return to work on the mini-series.

"I would like to do with Beowulf what John Buscema did for me with Conan. I want the 13- year-old me to freak out and love this book," enthused Steininger.

Markos said, "We're very pleased to follow up Beowulf: The Graphic Novel with the Tales of Beowulf mini-series. Fans can keep informed of all the latest developments at our website, www.markosia.com."

The longest and greatest surviving Anglo-Saxon poem, Beowulf is the epic tale of the legendary warrior and his darkly evil nemesis, the man-ogre Grendel. Beowulf has been adapted for the screen several times in the past, but this November, the ultimate version of the classic adventure will be released. Robert Zemeckis is directing the film with the same performance capture technology he utilized on The Polar Express. But whereas that film was a heartwarming story based on a famed children's book, Beowulf is a grisly tale of monstrous proportions. Not only must Beowulf engage in bloody battle with Grendel, but he must also contend with Grendel's equally horrific mother, and a fierce fire-breathing dragon.