MOONSTONE PHANTOM COMICS

Lee Falk never intended to continue writing comics. It was just something to do until he became established in his first love…theatre. Although, he owned several playhouses and was responsible for hundreds of theatrical productions, his work in comics continued. Perhaps his interest in the stage made his scripts sometimes late, but it also enriched his work in comics. The Phantom and Mandrake often unfolded like a well written play, and he was aware of the global interest in his comics work making him conscientious to not only be entertaining but to be responsive to the world that welcomed him and his work with open arms.
His amazing tenure as a writer for ongoing continuity adventure strips kept the stories popular for millions of readers for over six decades. Unfortunately, neither ‘The Phantom’ nor ‘Mandrake The Magician’ were able to sustain a continuing presence in the changing world of American comic books as superheroes who followed like Batman or Superman. It is the goal of Moonstone comics to change that by reinventing The Phantom for US audiences without losing the heart and soul of the character.
Publisher, Joe Gentile, had a vision that he could do just that by applying conventions of modern comics to the character without changing basic story line or legend of The Phantom. He also saw fit to apply a little creativity by introducing special projects like ‘Legacy’ a comic presented as the actual journal of the first Phantom. Another innovative presentation, “The Law of the Jungle” tells a story from the eyes of a villain created with an artistic photographic technique, and “Man Eaters” which displays a pulpy cover and like ‘Legacy’ is presented in ‘Wide Vision’ to give it a cinematic feel. There will also be a prose book scheduled to come out this summer. The editor also saw fit to produce a number of beautifully painted covers by accomplished illustrators Joel Naprstek and Doug Klauba. (Click here for Doug Klauba Interview)
The responsibility of providing exciting worthwhile adventures is an endeavor also taken very seriously by current Phantom writer, Mike Bullock. Mike is the creator of “Lions, Tigers, and Bears” a highly acclaimed comic that has been described as a cross between “Calvin and Hobbes” and “Narnia.” Mike brings his considerable talent to The Phantom, but is respectful of the heritage of creator, Lee Falk. With this in mind, Mike has spent a great deal of time and effort researching traditional Phantom stories and discussing the character with long time fans. As a consultant for Moonstone, I have had the pleasure of conferring with Mike about story ideas, and I can attest to his sincerity about keeping the real Phantom alive for a new generation of US comic fans. I posed some questions to Mike. (Click here for interview with Mike)
Doug Klauba's first Phantom art was his dramatic cover for the sold out 2003 Moonstone Phantom trade paperback. This prizewinning artist has done 10 Phantom paintings for Moonstone. His work is a fan favorite for longtime Phantom readers and newcomers as well. (For an interview with Doug, click here.)