For those of you who habitually read my blog, you’ll recognize the name William Wilson, the guru behind Arch Enemy Entertainment. As usual, of course, behind every great general are the grunts in the trenches shoring up the battle lines. I had the chance to sit with two admitted grunts and get their take on comics, movies, and life on the front line.

Neil Thompson is one of our stable of writers in Arch Enemy, with projects Karma, The Diplomat, and Born & Bred currently in development. In addition to comics, he also recently directed a short film called Thorns, written by his novelist brother Eldon Thompson. Eldon is the author of the medieval fantasy series The Legend of Asahiel. In addition, his script adaptation of the bestselling Terry Brooks’ novel The Elfstones of Shannara is currently under option at Warner Bros. Check out my interview with the brothers Thompson...

Percy Carey: All right, we’ll get to the comics and the movies and all that, but first things first: you guys look like a couple of WWE wrestlers. Just how heavy are the pencils you guys use to write with?

Neil: Yeah, we get that a lot.

Eldon: We’re obviously compensating for small… vocabularies.

Neil: Mine’s huge.

Percy Carey: You mean the vocab. Gotcha. We’ll leave it at that. So how did you first get associated with Arch Enemy?

Eldon: I thought I was trying out for the metal band of the same name. I should’ve read the fine print.

Neil: Like most of Arch Enemy, I think, I got drafted by Will. The Diplomat was originally a screenplay, but Will thought it had strong comic book potential as well, so he lassoed me in to write the comic script. I had worked with him before on our entry into the Sasquatch Anthology, which was all about the imbecility of pitching in Hollywood. I figured having a nice visual representation of the film would be one more tool in getting a film exec to take a closer look.

Percy Carey: So it was actually film that led you to comics, not vice versa?

Neil: Definitely. Insanity led me to films, films led me to comics. But ultimately, it’s all about synergy.

Eldon: Seems these days, the lines between media are becoming ever less distinct.

Percy Carey: Speaking of other media, your most recent project was the short film Thorns. How did that come about?

Neil: Wow. Well, Thorns is the product of my insanity and Eldon’s drunken stupor.

Eldon: What can I say? Those Italians know their wine. Actually, what happened is Neil wrote a feature that drew interest from a Hollywood producer. To pitch him as the director, this producer asked Neil to provide a sample of his work. For that, he really only had his reel of student films from his time at USC. Though they drew rave reviews and “A” grades, these films weren’t exactly what Neil wanted studio execs to judge him on. So he decided to make a short film that would better represent his abilities. When they came looking for potential material, the best I had to offer was a short story I’d cooked up years ago while on a writers retreat in Rome. Somehow, that story became the one everyone latched onto. An extremely ambitious project, for an independent short, but that was part of the attraction. The “insanity” Neil refers to is his need to tackle seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The bigger the challenge, the greater his desire to see it overcome.

Neil: It’s a sickness. But I think it’s one we both share. I don’t think there’s a comic book fan out there who wouldn’t want to see their favorite book done really well on the big screen, like what Chris Nolan did for Batman. Same with The Diplomat and Tyrese Gibson’s Mayhem that you and Will had a hand in, and Eldon’s books for sure. They’re all these big, fantastic worlds that, if done right, would just make awesome films. And that’s what we want to do, what we want to bring to and draw from the comic book world, and any media for that matter. We want to tell great stories in a big way, and we just weren’t going to show anyone we could do that by filming a short about two angry brothers crying over their dying grandmother. We needed something bigger, more accessible than melodrama, but… turns out that’s easier said than done. Who knew?

Percy Carey: So what, were you blowing shit up?

Neil: Well, that’s what I wanted to do. Light a firecracker in Eldon’s sphincter and see what happened.

Eldon: I couldn’t squeeze that into the story.

Neil: Not with that attitude, he couldn’t. But Thorns actually isn’t “big”, it was just audacious. It was a period piece set in ancient Rome on a low budget, you know. Who knew togas would cost so goddamn much?

Eldon: Turns out, they don’t really build homes with Roman-style courtyards anymore—or “inner peristyles” as I guess they’re called. So we had to build one ourselves. And though the film is only 18 minutes long, it contains a full-blown, three-act story… something that most short films lack. Oh, and in Hollywood, you’re constantly being questioned. For instance, we had an iron fence on our set, and everyone wanted to know if iron was used during the Roman Empire. (For the record, yes, we did our research, and the Iron Age began centuries prior to Rome’s rise.) Point is, we needed much more than a handheld digicam and a dirty dorm room to pull this off, so everyone kept telling us it couldn’t be done. For what it’s worth, we proved them wrong.

Percy Carey: But you do mean to blow shit up in the next one, right?

Eldon: Quite possibly. Depends on the project, I suppose. I know that Eternal Boyd, a psychological thriller, opens with a plane wreck. A pretty nasty one, I might add.

Neil: Or better yet, if you’ve read Eldon’s books—well, first of all, if you haven’t, you should—you know we’ve got medieval cities being ripped apart and torched by a massive freakin’ dragon. That’s the shit I want to blow the hell up! Awesome.

Eldon: Well, there’s that. Although that might take a slightly bigger budget than anyone’s offered us just yet… Anyone? Anyone?

Neil: Hey, you got yours from HarperCollins already.

Eldon: Yeah, I suppose we might at least get the caterer for that.

Neil: No way. We’re not skimping on the catering.

Percy Carey: How about comic book adaptations of your novels? Any plans?

Eldon: I don’t know. You’ll have to check with Will on that one.

Neil: So much to do, so little time.

Percy Carey: So what’s next on the horizon?

Eldon: The official release of Thorns was what, April? Since then, we’ve been focused on getting copies to agents and producers who want to have a look. We screened it in the Short Film Corner at the Cannes Film Festival a few weeks ago. And though we’re still fighting jetlag from that one, we’ve got a couple other film festivals already lined up. Turns out that making a film—as with comics, music, or any other art form—is only half the battle. Promotion is a whole ’nother ball of wax. I think I can speak for both of us when I say we’d much rather be in pre-production already on the next project. But we’re still taking bids on a number of different story proposals… in various mediums. To some extent, priority is driven by investor interest.

Neil: That’s why I like comics. Or at least one reason. Just like Thorns, they’re often small enough that I can be my own investor. We’ve got Claudio Sepulveda’s finished artwork on The Diplomat, which is just fantastic work I’m hoping we can get on the shelves soon; I’ve got another two issues of Karma to plow through; and whatever other projects I’m lucky enough to work with Arch Enemy on. We’re just, you know, shoulders lowered and keep on pushing.

Percy Carey: Thanks for hanging out today. You guys are both gonna be at Comic-Con this year, right?

Eldon: Between my new book release and all the people I know who are scheduled to attend, I don’t think I could escape it if I wanted to. But seriously, I always enjoy Comic-Con. Wouldn’t miss it.

Neil: Yeah, it’s the only place he can put on his Wonder Woman tights without getting mocked. It’s very sad to see him cry, but his tears make me happy. Go ahead, punch him in the jimmy, try it out. You’ll feel better, seriously.

Percy Carey: I’ll take your word for that one. Thanks, guys.

Neil: Indeed. Thanks, man.

Eldon: [Sniffles] I think I have something in my eye.

BONUS: TYRESE TALKS ‘MAYHEM!’ ON RUSSIAN TV!

Bayou Volume One collects the first four chapters of the critically-acclaimed webcomic by Jeremy Love. Bayou is the first title to come out of ZudaComics.com, the online imprint of DC Comics. Blending elements of Fantasy and southern folklore, Bayou is a supernatural fairytale that sets Alice in Wonderland within a historical representation of poverty and racism in 1930s South. Click Here to read it online, or check out a few pages below…

Nine-year-old Lee Wagstaff knew better than to go down to the bayou. The last time she’d gone into the murky waters was to help her father fish out the body of a boy who’d been lynched for whistling at a white woman. As she tied the rope around the boy’s foot, she saw something – or was it someone? – move in the darkness of the swamp.

Something’s down in that water. Lee knows it. And she knows she ain’t going back.

When her white playmate ignores her warnings, she’s swallowed up into the bayou. Lee watches as her father’s dragged off by a mob after he’s accused of harming the white girl. Determined to find her friend and save her father’s life, Lee embarks on a haunting journey to unlock the dark mysteries of the bayou’s cloudy depths.

Blending elements of fantasy and Southern folklore, Bayou is a supernatural fairy tale that sets Alice in Wonderland within a historical representation of poverty and racism in the 1930’s South.

On sale this June, BAYOU Volume One collects the first four chapters of the critically-acclaimed webcomic by Jeremy Love.

BONUS! Watch Percy Carey’s interview on “A Comic Book Orange”…

CLICK NEXT TO SEE PERCY’S NEW RELEASE PICKS OF THE WEEK!

Man it’s been a crazy week hanging out with Tyrese Gibson and Team MAYHEM! We got to hang out with Oscar-winning director Guillermo Del Toro and discussed things like…(oops I can’t say), but don’t worry, you’ll find out soon enough. Tyrese and Guillermo really hit it off and Guillermo is a stong supporter of MAYHEM!…

As for Guillermo’s midnight book signing at Meltdown comics…the man caused a 4-hour line outside that went on forever! I’ve never seen anything like that in my life (he’s like the Beatles or Jackson 5). Guillermo signed every book and spoke with every person, and is one of the kindest people you will ever meet.

If you’re wondering what we are all drinking in the gold cans, it’s called Tibetan tea and it’s the greatest drink on the planet (and it’s ALL NATURAL!) I would like to say thank you to Tina Zee from Tibetan Tea, you changed my life by introducing me to my favorite drink in the whole wide world.

We also hit up the video game convention E3, which was exhausting. And a Twitter party at a place called “MY HOUSE” (that’s the real name of the club), which was so off the chain they had to calm it down because it was too many people (I thought I saw PRINCE but I was too far away).

Check out the video at Meltdown and don’t forget to pre-order Tyrese Gibson’s MAYHEM! But please try to do it today so you can be part of comic book history in the making.

Comic Con is coming up, any Jack Kirby fans in the house? Well every week until comic con I’m going to give you a little piece of history about Jack Kirby. I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Kirby but he’s been very influencial over my career and one of my all time favorite people in the comic book industry.

I’ll talk to you guys next week….until then..peace.

CLICK NEXT TO SEE PERCY’S NEW RELEASE PICKS OF THE WEEK!

Tyrese Gibson’s MAYHEM! supporters you can now be the first to download 4 free pages of MAYHEM! in jpg format then bring them them to your local comic book store; ask to speak with the store buyer, then show the store buyer your 4 free pages of MAYHEM! and then ask them order MAYHEM! for their store. You’re not just witnessing history, you are actually part of MAKING history!. MAYHEM! is on the rare path to break records in the comic industry, and with your support, together. we can change the way comics books are viewed. Together we can prove the skeptics wrong. It is well known that there is strength in unity, so I’m asking all MAYHEM! supporters to show the stores we are united if so then together we will break records. Our time is now, Let’s seize the moment. Check out the preview (along with an exclusive look at the cover of Issue #2) below…

[Click on the image to see full size, or view the pages below...]

**BONUS EXCLUSIVE** Check out the cover of MAYHEM! Issue #2:

CLICK NEXT TO SEE PERCY’S NEW RELEASE PICKS OF THE WEEK!

The comic reads like a high concept movie. When a scientist succeeds in creating artificial intelligence, he discovers to his horror that the government plans on making it a weapon. On the run, he hides the program inside a mechanical toy bear named MR. STUFFINS. An unsuspecting father buys the toy bear for his son Zach. Zach soon discovers that his new best friend will change his life forever. The artwork is by comic book artist Axel Medellin, and is solid and pops in the right places as Cosby and Stokes deliver great moments and great characters. Boom Studios also has a variant cover By MOUSE GUARD’s David Petersen, showing that they are bringing in the best for the launch of this mega-title. Hit the jump for a preview of Mr. Stuffins…

What’s up Complex readers? Today I have the honor of introducing extended family named The Madtwiinz. The Madtwiinz are incredible animators who have mastered the ability to combine hip-hop music and animation and bring it to life the way it should be.

To me, they’re Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks for the hip-hop generation and deserve the respect and support of the Complex readers. The comic book and animation world who knows about them will tell you it’s only a matter of time before the Madtwiinz take over the industry. Well, the time is now. Enjoy the interview…

Percy Carey: Please tell the readers your names, where you’re from, and when you knew you wanted to be in both comics and animation.

Mike: Mark Davis and Mike Davis or Madtwiinz. We are from Boston area—Cambridge. The “port,” to be specific. We lived out in ATL for five and six years respectively and moved out to L.A. around 2000.

Mark: Our career just naturally evolved into for us. We were always bouncing stories and characters back and forth to each other, since we were both in the womb.

Mike: It was never really like, “Yo, i want to do comics and animation.” I just knew that I liked the idea of being able to create stories and images that people could relate to. Stories and characters that me and dudes around my way could look at and be like “I feel that,” that was the most important part. To capture the detail and nuances from the culture we was raised in.

Percy Carey: Are you both illustrators?

Mike: Yea we are both illustrators. Mark is the creator of the Blokhedz style though. For the comic, he illustrated most of the panels and I was responsible for the color and all the other aspects like the slang glossary and the look of the inspiration pages.

Percy Carey: Name four of your favorite animations that Complex.com readers should watch?

Mark:
1.    Ninja Scroll (of course)
2.    Akira
3.    Toppa Tengen Gurren Lagan
4.    Samurai champloo

Mike: Thats a tough question, always difficult to narrow favorites down. The joints that i think are timeless are, and in no specific order:

1. Ninja Scroll
2. Princess Mononoke
3. Akira
4. Spirited Away

Percy Carey: Favorite animated televison show?

Mark: Naruto is probably my favorite. The Japanese version though, I can’t stand the English dubbed voices.

Mike: Naruto season 1 (Japanese version only!) and Samurai Champloo. Back in the day it was Transformers, GI Joe, Thundercats, Robotech, Voltron, Fat Albert, Tom and Jerry, Galaxy Rangers, Dragon Warrior…I know you said “show,” but I can’t help it, my dude.

Percy Carey: What’s the name of your company?

Mark: Me and Mike are collectively known as the Madtwiinz. The company is Imajimation Studios.

Mike: And Street Legends Ink is the publishing branch.

Percy Carey: What are some of the past projects you have worked on?

Mark: We’ve freelanced for a few of the major studios out here [L.A.]. Sony, Fox, Disney. We’ve worked on The Boondocks on down to GI Joe.

Mike: The first job that got us in the game was a promotional piece/album cover we did for the Wu-Tang affiliated group called Killa Army. Did some work for music videos for Toni Braxton, and an R. Kelly animated short for his tour (before all the dramas) and things of that nature, but we always were more passionate about doing our own thing, nah’mean?

Percy Carey: Can you discuss any current projects?

Mike: Current projects as it stands now, we are mostly concentrating on Blokhedz animation, so y’all please check out www.missionG.com and help support the movement. We are talking to a few different companies about various projects and keeping busy.

Mark: Right, our main thing right now is the Blokhedz animated episodes that you shouted out in your interview with Tyrese…so big ups for that. We’re also working on a collab project with RZA that should be in stores soon, so stay tuned for that.

Percy Carey: Please tell the readers the name of your comic book and a little about the concept.

Mike: The name of the comic book is called BLOKHEDZ and it is basically about a young aspiring rapper who has the super power of turning his lyrics into reality. Also in this world are all sorts of characters and super natural being who are intertwined in a battle for the mythical Empire City.

Percy Carey: Are you self published?

Mike: We put out our first 4 comics independently and then we caught the eye of a German publisher who compiled the issues into our first graphic novel. That was love, ’cause they flew us out to Germany for their “Comic Salon” and they just had so much appreciation for what dudes was doing. Then after that, we were picked up by Simon and Schuster.

Mark: We’ve just finished up our contract with Simon and Schuster as of yesterday! So I guess we’re self-publishing again. Personally, I think independent is the way to go these days. There are so many outlets to get your work out there, and once you completed the work, then you charge a licensing fees to these publishing companies. [Laughs.]

Percy Carey: Are you focused on toys and collectibles? Video games? And sound track?

Mike: These are all things in the works. The animation is the priority as of now, being that we are a small team we need all hands on deck. But we are still designing toys, we just did a collab with Marka27 for his toy Killa Instinct which came out dope. Check for that at www.marka27.com, dude is talented beyond belief. Big up Marka!

Percy Carey: Are you involved with the marketing of your creations?

Mark: Yeah. We’re definitely hands on with the marketing. Being that our studio is so small, a lot of the times we have to wear several different hats.

Mike: Definitely! Being that we are independent, we have to get our hands dirty and just grind the marketing out. It’s so important and a tough job to spread the word! I’m sure you know what I mean, dealing with the independence of the music industry. But it’s like once we get it into people’s hands, the product speaks for itself. So we just hit everywhere we can, schools, barber shops, teen centers, libraries—all that…

Percy Carey: I’m aware you just returned from a trip to Korea. Can you tell us about your trip? And what’s your opinion about animation in Korea?

Mike: Aww man, yo, Korea was ill! I loved it out there, man. The animation industry out there is bubbling! There are a lot of really talented artists over there making Korea, Seoul specifically, a global animation hub. Mad shows come out of there. They showed us so much love! They made the impossible happen. We really didn’t have enough time in our schedule to pull it off, but eMation really stepped it up for us and held us down. So big up everyone over there at eMation!

Mark: I loved Korea, dude. I’m looking forward to going back. It was a total cultural shock, but they definitely get it poppin’ over there. Animation is a whole industry over there, they have specific schools dedicated just to animation.

Percy Carey: Do you see room for improvement in both the comic book and animation industry here in the United States?

Mark: I think we’re on point with our comic book game over here in the States. I would like to see more variety in the industry though. I would like to see stories from other perspectives. In animation, I would like to see more of it geared towards adults in the U.S.

Mike: I agree. In any art form there is always room for evolution. Things are always progressing day to day. I think it is an artist’s job to reflect what is going on in his/her environment and use the gift to improve upon the conditions we all share. I would like to see more diversity in entertainment also. Not the same old images we have been seeing ever since…

Percy Carey: What’s your view about companies like PIXAR? And Dreamworks?

Mike: PIXAR and Dreamworks produce amazing projects. I can’t front, their quality and stories are top notch. Brad Bird is Ill. And it don’t hurt to have the type of budgets them cats be working with! If we had budgets like that [laughs], yo, we’d be outta here! Blokhedz is just the tip of the iceberg, we got mad more shit that will be hitting the masses.

Mark: They get it in, no doubt. The work they create is amazing. It shows you what’s possible with endless amount of time and resources.

Percy Carey: Are there any independent companies that you feel should get more exposure that you would like to bring to the readers’ attention?

Mark: Studio 4c do some sick work. They did a movie called Tekkon Kinkreet which is ridiculous. The amount of detail they put into that film is crazy! Production I.G. is ill too.

Percy Carey: What can we expect from you in the future?

Mark: We’re going to keep pushing our brand of animation, strive to bring something new to the table, and give another perspective that you are not use to seeing. Definitely look out for the RZA collab late this year early next year. And also keep your eyes peeled for some other high profile projects coming in the near future!

Mike: Definitely got more Blokhedz popping off on missionG.com, we going to continue to build the brand as we have been. As we expand, we will continue to bring y’all more fire from the Madtwiinz. We got much more in store. Check for us at Blokhedz.tv to stay up on what we dealing with…

Percy Carey: How can the complex.com readers get in contact with you?

Mike: Complex readers can check us out on all the social networks like myspace.com/blokhedz or on facebook, twitter and all that. Also, email us directly at info@blokhedz.tv. Yo, good looking out on the interview, Grimm, it’s always a pleasure building with you man. Peace.

CLICK NEXT TO SEE PERCY’S NEW RELEASE PICKS OF THE WEEK!

Someone told us that today marked the 54th anniversary of Alfred E. Neuman’s first appearance on the cover of MAD Magazine. Hard to say, since it’s the July 1955 issue, but we’ll buy it; more importantly, though, the granddaddy of all humor magazines (except maybe Prevention, but that’s only because people walking proudly towards death is hilarious) just dropped its 500th issue. So recognize: Without MAD, there would be no Saturday Night Live, no Simpsons, no Apatow crew–hell, no Complex blog. Think we’re wrong? MAD’s had a number of Complex-friendly covers over the years…and yes, we’ve rounded them up as a way to say “Happy birthday, you usual gang of idiots.” Blecccch!

ISSUE #25, JULY 1955 (ALFRED E. NEUMAN’S COVER DEBUT)

ISSUE #111, JUNE 1967

ISSUE #128, APRIL 1969

ISSUE #159, JUNE 1973

ISSUE #166, APRIL 1974

[Each week, Complex columnist Percy Carey a.k.a. MF Grimm dives into the world of comic books with industry interviews, reviews and more. All MF Grimm music can now be purchased on Itunes]

Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m going to keep it short this week because I’m still recuperating from the Tyrese Gibson’s MAYHEM! launch party. Tyrese, you are the muthafuckin’ man! It was an amazing event filled with celebrities, great people, beautiful women all around and good food and (did I forget to say beautiful women all around?) I kicked it with the MAYHEM! creators Tyrese Gibson, Mike Le, William Wilson and the legendary Mr. Tone Rodriguez at Lucky Strike (LA Live). I even had an opportunity to sit down one on one with my friend, director/executive producer Micheal Bay (Transformers 1 and 2).

I won’t lie to you, I was suppose to cover the event, but I was too busy being interviewed by the press and partying. I let you down, Complex readers (blame it on the alcohol), but in my defense, you have not partied until you’ve hung out with Tila Tequila and ElectrikRed (I just couldn’t help myself…could you?). Tyrese, you sure know how to throw a party, my brother!. I can’t wait for the Tyrese Gibson’s MAYHEM! party at San Diego Comic Con JULY 2009—it’s going to be off the chain. Now, readers, although I was slacking because of macking, I still didn’t forget you (we’re family): I have some wonderful shots from the event for you to check out. Enjoy…

P.S.: Tila, if you’re reading this, I’ll see you and your “Army” at San Diego Comic Con. Thanks for the goodbye kiss ; )

Holla at your boy on Twitter.com: @percycarey

William Wilson, Tyrese Gibson, Tila Tequila, LaLa Vasquez

Tyrese Gibson, Percy Carey, Michael Bay, Mike Chavez-Booth

LEFT: Taraji P. Henson (Benjamin Button), RIGHT: Michael Bay and Tyrese (Transformers 2)

LEFT: Elecktric Red (Def Jam), RIGHT: Tyler Mane (X-Men, Halloween)

Comedian Laura Valdivia (My right) and Television writer Noelle Valdivia (my left)

LEFT: Percy Carey and Toccara (America’s Next Top Model), RIGHT: Chip Mosher of BOOM! Studios with Tyrese Gibson

Percy Carey and Michael Bay

RELATED RUMOR ALERT!!

There’s rumors brewing about a meeting between Avi Arad and Tyrese Gibson at a trendy LA eatery named Cecconis on Monday. Well, here is the PROOF! I just obtained these photos of Mr Gibson and Mr. Arad (an a unidentified guest) leaving the restaurant from www.humormillmag.com. It’s assumed the dinner meeting was about Mr. Gibson playing as Luke Cage or Black Panther and there’s some rumbling of him being courted to create a comic book for MARVEL. I’m not sure what was exactly said yet, but I will personally contact www.humormill.mag, since they were on the scene and see what I can get for you. If anyone get updates, please post them here. Thank you.

After the incredible response last week to my face to face interview with Mr. Tyrese Gibson about his comic MAYHEM!, I couldn’t wait to confirm with him which one of one of the five publishing companies (DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dark Horse, IMAGE Comics or BOOM! Studios) was the official home for his comic book. But for his own reasons, he wanted to wait until this week to actually announce it.

Tyrese kept his promise to me that I would get a second opportunity to interview him face to face, but because of personal matters I needed to attend to, my second interview was unfortunately conducted over the phone and was brief because I only needed to confirm that one unanswered question…that one unanswered question that everyone in the comic book industry demanded me to confirm: What company is MAYHEM! with? I promised to give the Complex.com readers what they wanted (did you see how many people left comments? that’s crazy right?) and once again, Mr. Tyrese Gibson delivered. So here it is: Tyrese Gibson is still causing comic book MAYHEM! Thank you and enjoy the interview below…

Percy Carey: Hello Tyrese

Tyrese Gibson: Hey what up

Percy Carey: I’m good, how was your trip?

Tyrese Gibson: Oh, the trip was wonderful, thank you for asking. How are you?

Percy Carey: I’m good, I can’t really complain. I know you’re a busy man; this will only be a few minutes. I’m going get right to where we left off last time, Tyrese.

Tyrese Gibson: OK, let’s go.

Percy Carey: What is the official company publishing Tyrese Gibson’s MAYHEM!?

Tyrese Gibson: OK, The official Company is Image Comics, but the comic itself was produced through my comic publishing banner XiT ComiX, which is a division of my multi-media company, Headquarter Entertainment.

Percy Carey: Wow, OK. Why couldn’t you say Image to me last time? You know how many phone calls I got because I didn’t get that answer from you? You like building suspense, huh? [Laughs]

Tyrese Gibson: You gotta have mystique, you know? I had to make sure everything was official with the paperwork and stuff. The deal is finalized and now it’s time to bring MAYHEM!

Percy Carey: That’s understandable. My next question is, out of the five names I mentioned, what was it that made you decide to go with Image?

Tyrese Gibson: Image is one of the best companies in the comic world. They have a long history of great titles and I am excited to be apart of their history. They’re also very creator-friendly and have good instincts when it comes to the creative process. I’m really excited about this relationship I’ve built with Image.

Percy Carey: I already expected all of the guys to like MAYHEM!, but you single-handedly increased female comic book readership last week [Laughs]. In the history of feedback to replies here on Complex.com, there has NEVER been that many responses to ANY story….And how does that make you feel to see so many people interested in your comic book debut this early?

Tyrese Gibson: I’m humbled by it, and if anything, I hope I don’t over think about the outcome, ’cause I know so many people are anticipating it. [Laughs]

Percy Carey: Are you trying to make comic books cool? or something because I have never witnessed anything like that in my life, I got emails from about a million women wanting to know if your going to make your self available and have autograph signings at comic book shops? And other retail stores.

Tyrese Gibson: Yes, I’m for real with this MAYHEM! It’s my priority; it’s my child.

Percy Carey: Do you have anything up in coming that you would like the people to know about any signings or events?

Tyrese Gibson: I’m doing an unveiling of MAYHEM! on April 15th in Los Angeles. It’s gonna be crazy. Big red carpet event. I’ve sent invites to all the big local comic talents. I want everyone to come to this.

Percy Carey: Can you send it to me?

Tyrese Gibson: It’s on it’s way.

Percy Carey: Is it OK if I post it for the Complex viewers?

Tyrese Gibson: Of course. Blast off with it!

Percy Carey: I’ll be there. Tyrese, thank you for your time, man, and I guess I’ll see you at the
MAYHEM! Event

Tyrese Gibson: No problem, P.

CLICK NEXT TO READ THE LETTER TYRESE RECENTLY SENT TO COMIC BOOK RETAILERS!

This interview with Mr. Tyrese Gibson almost didn’t happen, due to me being stuck in traffic that felt like forever because of a terrible car accident (not my car but some cars way ahead of me). The last minute person like I am, I checked to see if I could interview him for Complex.com the very same day (1 hr before) he was leaving for a flight, but Mr. Gibson agreed to stick around and wait for me as long as he could, and I assured him that It would only take a few minutes to get to him. I knew I had more than enough time to get to him but there was one problem… I’m from New York City, and I know nothing! L.A. traffic is serious!

So as I was saying, about an hour later I’m still in traffic and upset because I was really looking forward to doing this interview with Mr. Gibson, and was disappointed when I had to call him from the car to explain why I was not going to be there for my face to face interview with him and I knew he had a very important flight to catch. He told me “It’s cool, I understood,” so I asked him when would he able to reschedule? He said, “No, it’s cool I understand things happen. I gave you my word, I’m going to stick around until you get here.” I was very thankful he waited around for me at his office (his office is really nice by the way) risking missing his flight, and when I got there my laptop would not work, and could not get to my questions that I wanted to ask him (yeah, I know I know). I called my laptop a few bad names (Tyrese was laughing at me while that was going on), so all I could do was laugh and decided to ask him what came to mind instead…hmmm I think that’s called journalism, huh? Mr. Gibson was a kind enough to answer the questions, and then left for his flight, but the bottom line is, do you see how much sacrifice is involved by two people who are passionate about comic books? Yeah, it can cause MAYHEM! please enjoy the interview and leave comments. Thank you…

Percy Carey: You have a solid career in music, as well as a strong film career, being a part of several iconic films and characters, why have you decided to branch out into comics?

Tyrese Gibson: I have always been open minded to new things, and I’ve said this a few times: I’m no comic book veteran, but when I went to ComiCon to promote Death Race, that energy out there really did something to me. I had no idea…So that’s when I decided I wanted to not only be a part of this world, but I wanna create something that I know the die hard comic book followers out there would appreciate.

Percy Carey: That definitely makes sense. The challenge to create a new character who has the opportunity to become part of pop culture like the great ones of the past. It’s very similar to film in so many ways. What about the creative side of comic books? How different is it from the creative side of film?

Tyrese Gibson: The creative team for comics is much smaller than a film; it allows people to be fully immersed in the process. As part of the creative team, it allows me to be more involved with projects. With film, there are so many aspects that have to be managed, when producers go over everything, I don’t see how they can possibly stay sane. Comics is the opposite in that regard. While in film, the producers must oversee set production, costume, location, but with comics you only have a few people to get on the same page with, the writer, and the artist. Because of this, development time is a fraction of what it would be for a film. Creating a comic book is still just as difficult as working on a film, some days it seems moreso, however the saved time allows creators to devote more time to crafting the best story possible and creating a larger catalogue. It’s easy for me to be involved with projects and shape them into great stories. It allows me to guide the other members of the creative team, men and women who are the best at what they do, towards dynamic and, hopefully one day iconic stories.

Percy Carey: Speaking of, you’ve been getting out and involved with comic fans over the last couple of years because of your love for comics and your involvement with some comic and toy related films. What do you think about the fans?

Tyrese Gibson: I have great respect for comic book lovers. They have been extremely supportive of me, especially due to Transformers 1 and 2 . Just like my supporters of music and film, they’re the ones who gave me energy to enter the comic book profession too. I embrace them all equally, because without them, I wouldn’t be here. True comic book fans can smell bullshit a mile away, which is great and what’s needed for the comic industry; because it forces creators to put out a higher grade of product. Stories and books have to be top notch, and at the end of the day, I thank them for holding everyone to a higher standard.

Percy Carey: So can you tell the audience about your new comic MAYHEM!?

Tyrese Gibson: MAYHEM! is the story of a masked vigilante who takes matters into his own hands by protecting The city of Los Angeles and its people from injustice.

Percy Carey: What inspired your to create MAYHEM!?

Tyrese Gibson: I always wanted to create a character that is so focused on bringing justice and balance to the world that they are willing to go to the ends of the earth to achieve it.

Percy Carey: Why would people identify with him?

Tyrese Gibson: People will be able to identify with MAYHEM! because MAYHEM! believes in saving innocent people that the system was meant to protect but for one reason or another is neglected by the very same people sworn to protect them. I believe that most people if given the chance would stand up against injustice. Some might not agree with MAYHEM!’s methods, but if you were to interview the people he saved, I’m quite sure they would have a totally different perspective. I’m not sure what each individual would say about him!, but I’m sure there’s one thing they will say in common to him.. and that’s “thank you!” MAYHEM! gets the job done!.

Percy Carey: Ok, now Tyrese, there’s rumors MAYHEM! is with MARVEL, There’s rumors that it’s with DC Comics, There’s rumors that it’s with DARK HORSE and there’s rumors that it’s with IMAGE or maybe BOOM! Studios. Each of the five companies mentioned are power houses in their own right. Can you please set the record straight, and tell the people which one is the place MAYHEM! calls home?

Tyrese Gibson: [Laughs] I can’t reveal that right now…

Percy Carey: OK. I respect that. When?

Tyrese Gibson: I give you my word I’ll announce it by your next column. How about that?

Percy Carey: That’s next Wednesday?

Tyrese Gibson: I’ll announce it right here, man! For the whole world.

Percy Carey: Ok, but could you at least tell me if it’s one of the five I just mentioned?

Tyrese Gibson: Yes, it’s one of those five, I’ll give you that.

Percy Carey: Have you ever thought about writing other comic book characters for other companies?

Tyrese Gibson: Clearly, my focus is on Mayhem! but if I had to write other characters it would be at either Marvel or DC…

Percy Carey: [Interrupting] …So it’s one of those two, huh?

Tyrese Gibson: No, I wasn’t finish talking, you cutting me off brother [Laughs]. I was going to say or Dark Horse or Image or BOOM! as well.

Percy Carey: [Laughs] Ok, my bad.

Tyrese Gibson: You going all Terry Moran on me huh? [Laughs]

Percy Carey: Last question, Tyrese—after MAYHEM!, do you see yourself creating another comic book?

Tyrese Gibson: Definitely. I have a love for comics that continues to grow and only true comic book lovers understand what I mean. It’s a feeling that I wish the whole world could enjoy equally. I look forward to sharing my creations that with others and hopefully they find some type of joy in my creations. You never know who you inspire.

Percy Carey: I love Twitter.com (@percycarey) and I know the Twitter community follows Complex.com very closely. What is your Twitter name and what would you like to say to your loyal followers in the Twitter community?

Tyrese Gibson: My Twitter name is @Tyrese4ReaL and I would say when you follow; you just might meet the NEW YOU. I call my Twit page “The Love Circle”..No 2 day is the same…Feel free to follow..Here’s my personal invitation…@Tyrese4ReaL

Percy Carey: Tyrese, I would like to apologize for being so late I was stuck in traffic for so long thank you for waiting around for me and I know I speak for all of your supporters we really appreciate you doing this interview.

Tyrese Gibson: [Laughs] Welcome to Los Angeles, It’s no problem. we can add on to this as soon as I get back

Percy Carey: Have a safe flight.

Tyrese Gibson: Thank you.

Speaking of MAYHEM! you must check our family the Madtwiinz, the creator of Blokhedz animation. They will be working closely with Arch-Enemy Entertainment and Tyrese Gibson on the animation side, so I’m asking complex.com viewers to show some support and check them out at www.MissionG.com please leave a comment about Blokhedz animation here in the forum after viewing their work at www.MissionG.com

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I was hanging out with my friend the Mayor of Los Angeles Anthony Villaraigosa (pictured above) the other day talking about the economic situation in L.A., and as we discussed how to implement incentives to encourage entrepreneurs (confidentially), we were pinpointing what industries would embrace it; although we compiled a nice list, it made me ask myself a question… I said, “What industry would resist it?” My answer: you guessed it, the comic book industry!

I thought about all of the comic book publishers who would rather go out of business than make some money. I’m not one to disrespect a few who decide to remain micropreneurs, but it feels like 90% of comic book publishers are afraid to allow their companies to grow, and refuse to think outside of their industry.

Most comic book companies also view ways to generate additional revenue as “selling out”. How long can they last just preaching to the choir? Especially when the choir is out for the intermission (nobody is listening) some companies are acting like we’re not in a digital age, and continuing to resist about digital comics. Comic book publishers get upset when high profiled celebrities create comic books, but want them to star in their favorite comic book movie or be on the soundtrack. I must admit some of you guys see the light and are now pushing the envelope to stay afloat don’t worry about your so called peers who laughing because you’re making the proper adjustment with your company. Remember what happen to those who laughed at Noah for building an ark; who’s laughing now?

Stay tuned for the first annual Percy Carey’s Comic Book Corner Power Player’s List. Percy’s Power Player List will be a compiled list of influential people in the comic book, film, television industries; but just to keep it fair I’m going to create two other lists, the second of which will be named “The House Award.” That will consist of companies that are in comas and are now on life support and no one knows what the fuck is wrong with them?

Like Doctor Gregory House, we will figure it out how to save them; but unlike the television show, it can go either way for these companies it just depends on how bad they want to stay alive. The House Award will be a solid gold asthma pump; and the third of the three is The SVU award (Special Victims Unit) for companies that were brutally murdered by their industry (you can be nominated through acts of stubbornness, stupidity, or for just being the sacrificial lamb). We will highlight what went wrong with these companies and hope it brings closure to their grieving families. The award will be a tombstone that states “We’re Closed”. I will give you an official date of the awards next week.

Last but not least I would like to thank Vertigo/DC Comics for including me in the 2009 Vertigo Encyclopedia. I have my own page (pg 162, pictured below). By the way everyone you can talk to me direct on Twitter @percycarey.

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O.K. Complex readers, I finally got a chance to sit down with world famous celebrity web series producer Casey McKinnon. Casey is one of the hottest women on the web today—she’s beautiful, intelligent, funny and every geek’s fantasy. If you’re ever blessed to be interviewed by her, she will turn you into a web series rockstar. Meeting Casey changed my life and if you pay attention, she can change yours too. Enjoy…

Percy Carey: Where were you born and when did you get into comics?

Casey McKinnon: I was born in Montreal, Canada, and raised in the suburbs. The first comic book I ever read was a Richie Rich comic I borrowed from a boy on my street, but it wasn’t until I moved to Edinburgh, Scotland, when I was 19 that I really got into comics as an adult. I started with uber-geeky comics by Evan Dorkin and Kevin Smith, and then my boyfriend Rudy Jahchan introduced me to more mature indie works by Brian Wood and Brian K. Vaughan. I’ve dabbled with the idea of writing comics, and have made a few comic strips in the past, but it’s Rudy who’s dreamed of working in the comic book industry… and I have no doubt that someday he’ll do it.

Percy Carey: How long has A Comicbook Orange been around and what inspired you to create it?

Casey McKinnon: Rudy and I started A Comicbook Orange at the same time as we started our web series Galacticast, in May 2006. When we started Galacticast, it was meant to be a network of web series with shows like A Comicbook Orange (comic reviews), News of the Worlds (genre movie news), Sci-Fi Night Live (sketch comedy show), etc. Though we started developing a great audience for A Comicbook Orange, we realized we were being a little too ambitious creating a “network” on our own and decided to change Galacticast into simply a sketch comedy show. But in June 2007, with the encouragement of a fan and founder at Next New Networks, we relaunched A Comicbook Orange licensing our content exclusively to their newly-founded comic book network Pulp Secret.

Percy Carey: Were you involved with any other web series other than A Comicbook Orange?

Casey McKinnon: I started making web series in 2005, just before the launch of the first video iPod. As a result, my first show Kitkast – “sex news and sexy interviews” – became one of the top subscribed podcasts on iTunes. In time, I got tired of the show and wanted to make something more me (ie. geeky). So, channeling our geekiness, Rudy and I launched Galacticast.

Percy Carey: What are the pros and cons of running your own show?

Casey McKinnon: I would imagine that making a web series is a lot like making an indie comic. Working a day job… staying up late… awful pay… etc.

Pros:
- You publish your won work, there are no Hollywood-types to turn you down.
- If you make something awesome, you can build your audience all on your own.
- If you’re able to develop your own significant audience, you can use that popularity to make deals (selling/licensing content, developing new funded projects, etc.).

Cons:
- Chances are you’re not getting paid much, if anything.
- Chances are you’re probably not getting much sleep either.

When it comes down to it, you need to be passionate and willing to work for nothing. I find that most of the real payment comes in form of positive feedback from fans and the press.

Percy Carey: There’s the Oscars, the Grammy’s, the Eisner… what’s the name of the awards for web series? When is the next one?

Casey McKinnon: There have been a few awards shows for web series. In fact, my partner and I won 5 Vloggies in 2006 for our work on Galacticast. Most recently, however, was The Streamy Awards… but since we didn’t produce any shows in 2008 we weren’t eligible for nominations. No worries, we are gonna kick ass next year!

Percy Carey: Do you have an all time favorite comic book or Graphic novel? If so, which one?

Casey McKinnon: Channel Zero by Brian Wood. I read it at a time when America really seemed to be turning into a Theocracy, and as an atheist, I was sincerely worried that freedom of religious/non-religious beliefs were being pushed aside. I’m so grateful now that America has elected a president who embodies the spirit of multiculturalism and tolerance… I can only hope that the nation stays the course on being open-minded.

Percy Carey: Would you mind naming a few independent comic book titles and publishing companies you’re following?

Casey McKinnon: Aside from your own book Sentences: The Life of M.F. Grimm, which made me cry on the second page, the most recent indie titles I’ve read are Scott Pilgrim vs. The Universe and The Walking Dead (Books I & II). I tend to read a lot of titles from Oni Press, Image Comics and Vertigo.

Percy Carey: What’s your opinion on comic book based movies? Do you think they live up to the hype?

Casey McKinnon: I’m all for it, but I try to go in with low expectations. My favorite movie last year was Wanted… it may not have been much like the comic, but it surprised me. That, and I’ve had a soft spot for James McAvoy ever since he was in the Children of Dune miniseries on the Sci Fi Channel. Leto II FTW!

Percy Carey: What’s your opinion on the Watchmen movie?

Casey McKinnon: I was a little disappointed at first because I had seen way too many trailers and previews online. And, since I already read the graphic novel, the film didn’t add anything to my previous enjoyment of the Watchmen brand. Visually I thought the movie was perfect, but I was underwhelmed by the actor playing Adrian Veidt… who I felt should’ve been more Thor-like. Still, I haven’t lost all hope… I look forward to watching it again someday when I’m not completely saturated with hype.

Percy Carey: What’s your opinion on people who enter the comic book industry from other mediums?

Casey McKinnon: Content is content. If you’re a writer, you should do what you love no matter what the medium. In the end, it’s the readers that’ll decide what they enjoy.

Percy Carey: I feel the majority of comic book publishing companies are stuck in the past and not creative …

Casey McKinnon: I would like to see less message boards and more blogs… less registering, more commenting. Two-way communication should be important to all companies, so making it easy should be equally important. I was really happy when a lot of comic creators finally adopted Twitter at Comic Con last year… we’re living in a world where individuals are their own brand, and accessibility is king.

Percy Carey: How does it feel to be one of the sexiest geeks in America?

Casey McKinnon: Zod bless America! ;)

Percy Carey: Can you sing? Dance? Play guitar? Do martial arts?

Casey McKinnon: All of the above. I can pretty much do anything… to the extent that I feel I need to cut a lot out when I write my talent resume. Most notably, I’m a two-time UK gold-medalist in martial art Kuk Sool Won, and a two-time Canadian gold-medalist in synchronized swimming. Performing is my passion.

Percy Carey: I’m noticing more women entering comic book stores and buying comics, do you feel publishing companies are focusing more on women readers now? And do you feel the female audience will continue to increase? If so, why?

Casey McKinnon: I can’t speak for all women, but I’m only comfortable at certain comic shops. If the employees are friendly and personable, I think they have a better chance of attracting female clientele. In fact, I shop at Meltdown Comics in West Hollywood for that very reason… they’ve always made me feel comfortable and welcome.

As for the comics, I’m not sure much has changed recently. There’s still a lot of superhero comics with gynormous breasts… and there are still great indie comics with strong, realistic female characters. There’s a variety to choose from, you just have to figure out what your preference is.

Percy Carey: You’re one of the people who introduced me to Twitter. How important are social websites like Twitter, Facebook, Myspace today when it comes to spreading the word about your shows?

Casey McKinnon: Over the past two years, Twitter has become so important to me and my web presence. When I was producing shows full time I used it to promote new episodes, but now that I’m on haitus I use it to post similarly interesting links to maintain my brand. Someday soon, when I do have a new episode to post, I’ll have a perfect built-in audience looking forward to new content.

Percy Carey: Name a person that you would love to interview on A Comicbook Orange.

Casey McKinnon: There are so many, but Evan Dorkin comes to mind since it was Dork! that really got me back into comics in the late ’90s.

Percy Carey: Are you working on a creator owned comic book or graphic novel?

Casey McKinnon: No. Since my passion in performing, I’m concentrating on continuing to create web series… whether it be acting or hosting.

Percy Carey: Can you turn someone like me into a Web rockstar?

Casey McKinnon: What, you’re not already a rockstar?! Well, you will be soon…

Percy Carey: How can the readers get in contact you?

Casey McKinnon: You can always reach me at casey at caseymckinnon dot com, or you can connect with me on Facebook and Twitter.

Percy Carey: Thank you for your time Casey.

Casey McKinnon: Thank YOU, Percy!

WATCH CASEY IN THE ‘A COMICBOOK ORANGE’ TEASER TRAILER:

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There is a newsstand that I pass. I must say, being able to roll down the street and pass newsstands is really nice, you don't really see them anymore in Los Angeles, and it makes me feel like being back in New York. One day, I passed the newsstand and spotted something that made me proud and happy. It seems that work and passion will follow you where ever you go. The stand has an old school spinning rack for comic books, and this day, I happen to see that they had begun to carry a series called UTF. Now, you may be wondering why this particular series is so important to me…

Well, UTF was the first series that Arch Enemy Entertainment did as a company. The fact that people outside of comic book stores carry comics, especially the book of the company I now work for, really says something about society today. It really means a lot that our book is being carried, and more so that people want to read comics books more and more. I'm just very proud that UTF and Arch Enemy are at the frontline of the re-emergence of the comic book culture. There's more to come from Arch Enemy, and more ground to be broken.

In case anyone wants to stop by and check out the newsstand, the address is:

Above the Bold Larchmont Newsstand
226 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Los Angeles Ca 90004
323-464-6397

You can also follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/percycarey
Or visit my website www.percycarey.com

Please stop by the newsstand and tell them Percy sent you.

As always, see you next week.

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Do you remember those Sprite commercials in the '90s with Large Pro, Bambaataa, Common and others? When I saw those commercials, I remember feeling like hip-hop finally was getting respect it was due. Although I never met the creator of the commercials, I knew the person who created them had a love for hip-hop that equaled mine (if not more) and I always wanted to meet the mastermind behind those ads and thank him.

Reggieknow was the person who started that creative revolution (Reggie also designed the label for Vitamin Water) and it was a pleasure meeting him recently. I’m sure you’ll feel the same way once you read this interview…

Percy Carey: Where were you born? And when did you realize you wanted to work in the comic book industry?

Reggieknow: I was born in Go-Ill (the city side of Chicago) and Dem Dare raised me on Michigan Avenue. Well, actually I'm more of an anime/manga air conditioner (it's being a fan but cooler). I collected only X-Men in grammar school, which I'm happy to still own.

Percy Carey: Could you please tell the audience about yourself?

Reggieknow: I'm Reggieknow, the illustrator and one of the writers of the urban anime THIS DAY and the chief creative officer and partner of www.ad-itive.com. Look me up under ceilings.

Percy Carey: Can you explain to the readers about your profession?

Reggieknow: I lead creative executions in marketing, advertising, grassroots and P.R…from conservative brands such as Colgate to edgier ones such as Truth.

Percy Carey: Would you mind giving some words of wisdom to the readers who are interested entering in your profession?

Reggieknow: To quote the 1988 ad campaign, in the words of 1988 hip-hop… “stay in school and don't be a fool” [Laughs]. Seriously, it's as simple as educating yourself on being a creative writer or art director. The same seriousness in approach one would take with any profession. It's all dedication at the end of the day, which goes back to education, which still goes back to 1988 hip-hop.

Percy Carey: Do you recommend any books about how to enter your field?

Reggieknow: It's so many books on advertising greats and everybody's opinion on how to do great advertising. I really wouldn't suggest starting there. The perfect place to start is within yourself and finding that inner creative. While doing that the One Show award books, the CA's are great for inspiration. Most of the books I've read on advertising, I felt to just be one's opinion, so I wouldn't suggest a title. Concentrating on your creative mind is first before clouding your head with others.

Percy Carey: What was a lesson you would want to share with people who want to enter your profession?

Reggieknow: Heavy, heavy research. The more you know about them and their order of operation the better for you in finding your lane. I enjoy the advertising arts but I have a dislike for the business of advertising, please pardon.

Percy Carey: Name one comic book store you recommend people to visit when in Los Angeles?

Reggieknow: I guess it would have to be Meltdown, but again anime & action figures come first for me.

Percy Carey: Who is your favorite comic book artist?

Reggieknow: Jack Kirby, all the above as far as comic books.

Percy Carey: Can you inform our readers about any of your upcoming projects?

Reggieknow: My partner Nowenen and I are shopping the urban anime THIS DAY. We're doing collabs with www.unionlosangeles.com with Chris Gibbs. Jewelry with www.melodyehsani.com and a list of things I can't speak on just yet.

Percy Carey: Where do you see your self doing in the next five years? And where do your industry going?

Reggieknow: Well time itself is faster, so THIS DAY for sure on a larger scale. Technology also being fast and accompanied with the power and say so of consumers, most likely the ad*itive will just bury itself deeper in culture.

Percy Carey: Please tell the audience about your project This Day?

Reggieknow: THIS DAY is an urban anime cable feature and series, in short best described as Seinfeld meets Yo!MTV Raps. It's about having “one of those days” EVERYDAY. A Murphy's Law through the urban experience. It's the humor of Family Guy with the anime story telling edge of Perfect Blue, but hip-hop. It's topped with an artistic feeling of Ralph Bakshi's animated film Coonskin meets Sin City.

Percy Carey: How did you come up with the ideas for the Sprite commercials? And will we see more in the future?

Reggieknow: My growing up in the best times of hip-hop culture, I would have to say. Because of that, I acquired a vast knowledge of the culture. That in addition to my interests in Asian pop culture as a teen. I've tried to work with Sprite during these times, but they have different directions in mind. The THIS DAY collabs carry a hip-hop essence that has the taste of what the Sprite ads were doing in the '90s for sure.

Percy Carey: Do you have any plans dealing with film or television? If so can you talk about them?

Reggieknow: Yes, heavy discussions are taking place with THIS DAY as far as television and film. I'd rather make mention of those things once it's signed and sealed, very exciting though.

Percy Carey: What’s your opinion on the state of hip hop?

Reggieknow: Hip-hop has created many jobs for people and a great source of income, so for that I'm grateful. It's not balanced at all and I wish there was more available that suits my taste, but I search hard and I do find what I need to make my killer tapes, so no complaints.

Percy Carey: How do you feel about the state of advertising today?

Reggieknow: I think the ad game is just that, a game like everything else. I get tired of everyone thinking they're smarter than everybody else.

Percy Carey: Do you still see room for growth in the music industry and comic books industry? If so how?

Reggieknow: As far as music, I think it depends on ones definition of growth. What many may call growth, I may consider taking steps backwards and vice versa. With comics… totally, with all the movies happening, etc.

Percy Carey: What is your view on the current economy? Has it affected the entertainment industry in your opinion?

Reggieknow: The economy being this way was designed many years ago and it has affected EVERYTHING. It's the Y2K joke on the American public but even more polished and on a grander scale.

Percy Carey: Can you squeeze in a MF Grimm cameo in your next commercial?

Reggieknow: I suggest we do a commercial on one of your many projects so it can stay true. A lot of the people that work in the commercial field and execute hip-hop ads are “internet” hip-hop experts. Us doing it on our own keeps it true.

Percy Carey: What inspired the design of your ride?

Reggieknow: It's based on Joe/Jason's G-2 race car from Gatchaman/Battle of the Planets, which is an anime series I grew up watching. Wow, it's like driving an action figure!

Percy Carey: You and I both share the same respect for an emcee named Sir Ibu please school the readers about him?

Reggieknow: Hey man, that's a personal favorite… Sir Ibu was the main rapper of Divine Force Crew. 5%er rapper from BK, I believe. Anyway, “Holy War”, “Peace Maker,” forget about it. You hear a “Holy War” verse in Ghostface's “Mighty Healthy” hook. Fur coats and Bally's, there is no touching the god Ibu. Oh yeah, I used “Holy War” on my reel online.

Percy Carey: With the success of comic book properties turned to film Iron Man, The Dark Knight, Watchmen, and Transformers, Who do you think should play John Solo: Secret Agent in the live action featured film: Brad Pitt or George Clooney?

Reggieknow: Brad Pitt may be better for the pocket, but either is great.

Percy Carey: How can the readers get in contact with you?

Reggieknow: reggieknow@thisdaysucks.com, facebook, myspace.com/thisdaysucks, twitter and myfacespacebooktwitter

Percy Carey: Who would win a fight between Superman and Sentry? And why?

Reggieknow: Sentry, because I've never been into DC comics.

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