In the last few years, the SCI FI Channel has really given mainstream networks a run for their money with such popular hits as Battlestar Galactica, Eureka, Stargate Atlantis and the recent stand-alone mini Tin Man. In an effort to cater to its loyal fan base even more, SCI FI recently teamed up with Richard Branson’s Virgin Comics and acclaimed comic writer Mike Carey (X-Men, Ultimate Fantastic Four, Voodoo Child, Faker, Crossing Midnight) to give fans The Stranded, the first joint venture SCI FI comic book release that follows “an epic adventure spanning two worlds as seen through the eyes of five ordinary people whose extraordinary abilities may ultimately spell doom or salvation for the entire universe.”
Showing confidence in the comic book market, SCI FI, together with NBC Universal and Virgin Comics, is aiming to utilize the strength of the comic fan base to develop properties that could serve as the launching platform for a variety new concepts that would span multiple mediums, including TV, film, publishing, digital and games.
According to SCI FI’s recent press release, “… the partnership aims to attract some of the biggest names and talent from the worlds of comic books, television and movies. SCI FI and Virgin Comics have brought together a multimedia, creative editorial board with members representing comic books, television, movies, digital, gaming, licensing and merchandising.”
The Stranded Synopsis:
“One by one, The Stranded are assaulted by Janus, an altered human working for a mysterious, otherworldly force that seeks their destruction. Their only hope: Tamree, a dark, mysterious woman sent to Earth to protect them. She must awaken the buried individual memories of The Stranded — along with their powerful, unique psychic and physical abilities. But even if they can defeat Janus and his unseen masters, they must also deal with one of their own…who, damaged and unable to deal with her incredible new powers, cuts a swathe of incredible destruction across the Earth.”
Hitting store shelves on January 23, the first issue of The Stranded features two covers with artwork from Marc Silvestri (Cyberforce, Witchblade, The Darkness and the X-Men) and Greg Horn (Elektra, Emma Frost).