FCBD 2014 Interview with Marc Silverstri: Rise of the Magi

 

 

 

FCBD: For those who might be new to your comic book, give a quick rundown. What can we expect to see in terms of story and art?

Marc Silvestri (MS): ‘Rise of the Magi’ is a big fantasy adventure set in the world of magic that is unseen but exists all around us. It’s a big story told at a very human level that follows a young man’s journey from a life that is quiet and common to one that is anything but. The thing that’s unique about ‘Magi’ is that along with the magic and adventure, it’s also an unfolding mystery. I’ve described it as Harry Potter meets The Usual Suspects, meets The Seven Samurai. The artist on the book is Sumeyye Kesgin and she is utterly amazing. She brings great energy and undeniable charm to the world and characters that just brings everything to life.

FCBD: What has been your favorite part of book or character to tackle?

MS: My favorite parts have been weaving a magical mystery back and forth between our world and the bizarre world of magic. As for the characters, Magi’s heroes Asa Stone and April Mae June are by far my favorites. You can’t go wrong with two characters from completely different worlds and both being “fish out of water”! And of course there’s Bloop the enchanted frog!

FCBD: Tell FCBD fans why they should pick your book first on Free Comic Book Day!

MS: If fans are looking for a unique character-driven fantasy with adventure, heart, and deeper meaning, this is the book for them!

FCBD: What are you most looking forward to for Free Comic Book Day?

MS: FCBD has become such a happy “event” in our industry and I’m VERY happy to be even a small part of it. To see such a great response coming from both veteran and new fans alike is just awesome. And having comic stores filled with happy comic fans is simply priceless!

FCBD: What other titles would you associate with your FCBD book? “If a comic reader likes _______, they should pick up my title"?

MS: Saga and Fables comes to mind.

FCBD: What is the best part about Free Comic Book Day do you think?

MS: It’s the feel-good comic event of the year! Plus giving readers a chance to check out some new books without digging into their pockets is a no-brainer great idea!

FCBD: What’s your favorite part about working in comics?

MS: I’ve been fortunate in that I’ve had fun dipping my toes into all sorts of creative media and I always tell people the same thing: When it comes to absolute, undiluted creative freedom, nothing even comes close to comics!

FCBD: Many newcomers will pick up comics for the first time on FCBD—what was the first comic you remember reading?

MS: Archie!

FCBD: Where will you be for this year’s FCBD? Do you have any annual FCBD traditions?

MS: I’ll be stopping by two stores out here in southern California. From 12 – 2pm I’ll be at Golden Apple Comics on Melrose in LA. And then starting at 3:30, I’ll be up at Earth 2 Comics in Sherman Oaks. Come on by if you’re in the area!

FCBD: Looking to the future of the book, is there anything you can tease about what's upcoming?

MS: Well, since the story’s an unfolding mystery I can’t say too much. But I can tell you this: Whether your reality is based in science or a belief in an almighty power…you’re both wrong!

FCBD: Tell us why everyone should read comic books?

MS: Everyone should read comics because that’s where all the best, most original ideas are!

To see more comics from Marc Silvestri, go to http://imagecomics.com.

Find a comic shop near you at www.comicshoplocator.com to celebrate Free Comic Book Day!