Marvel Artist Ariel Olivetti Teams with All Star Creative Team to Turn ‘The Writer’ into the Hero of Their Own Story
In June, Dark Horse Comics will release the first in an all-new four-issue comic miniseries the all-star creative team of actor/singer Josh Gad (Frozen), creative storytellers Ben and Max Berkowitz (The Forever House), Marvel artist Ariel Olivetti, and letterer Frank Cvetkovic (Count Crowley). The Writer combines the fantastical elements of cultural folklore with the real-life challenges of the creative process, in a story that is unique, familiar, and wholly original.
“Teaming up with the brilliant Berkowitz brothers on ‘The Writer‘ has been an absolute blast and an education” says Josh Gad. “Here we are, diving headfirst into a universe where cultural folklore meets the high-octane adventures that defined our youth. It’s like all those Saturdays spent watching action flicks and dreaming up stories are finally paying off. What makes this project truly special, though, is the chance to celebrate personal stories. We’re talking about tales that not only entertain but resonate on a deeper level, reflecting a rich heritage and the kind of heroism that doesn’t always wear a cape. The Writer isn’t just a comic; it’s a milestone for nerds like us, proving heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Can’t wait for you all to see what we have in store!”
The Writer introduces readers to Stan Siegel, an established storyteller known for comic book stories of the heroic and fantastical. However, his life takes an unexpected and dark turn when he is plunged into a Nazi occult-fueled nightmare. In a whirlwind of folklore and magic, Stan’s hunger for answers unveils hidden identities amid demonic chaos and high-speed chases. This thrilling saga is a race against time, with Stan compelled to stop the rising tide of terror by becoming the hero from his pages.
“This all still feels unreal for my brother and I” says Benjamin Berkowitz. “We haven’t stopped marveling since joining forces with the legendary Josh Gad—yes, the ‘is there anything he can’t do?’ Josh Gad—and Ariel Olivetti, whose art made us believe superheroes could leap right out of the comics The Writer is our tribute to the rich tapestry of our cultural folklore, a nod to the pioneering creators of the comic book industry, and an homage to the blockbuster adventures that ensured our action figures never saw the inside of a box. It’s as if Indiana Jones and ‘Back to the Future’ had a baby, sprinkled with Jewish mythology, all brought to vivid life by Ariel’s artistry.”
Max Berkowitz adds “This series is our childhood dream realized, free of Dunkin’ coffee spills (we promise). It’s not just a comic; it’s a celebration of our storytelling, past and present, and our hope to inspire more tales of heroism and humor. Get ready for an exhilarating, laugh-filled journey through our most fantastical dreams. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this adventure.” Artist Ariel Olivetti concludes “I’ve lost count of how many comic books I’ve drawn over my career—artists and numbers aren’t exactly best friends. Now, I’m in the lucky position to choose projects that truly resonate, the kind that leave a lasting impression both on me and the readers. When I first read the script from Josh and the Berkowitz Bros., it was clear this was one of those rare, unforgettable projects.
As we approach the story’s climax, my pride in our work only grows, alongside my excitement for its future and my concern for our characters’ fates. Will they survive? Can the good prevail? These questions linger, but one thing is certain—I hope our readers find as much joy and anticipation in this journey as I have.”
The Writer assembles this all-star creative team from the stage, the screen and comics alike to bring readers into the magical world of cultural folklore through the lens of the pitfalls of the real-life creative process, The first issue lands on shelves of your favorite comic shop on June 19.
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About Josh Gad:
Josh Gad is an American actor, singer, and comedian. He is known for voicing Olaf in the “Frozen” franchise, playing Elder Arnold Cunningham in the Broadway musical “The Book of Mormon,” and LeFou in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”
In Fall 2023, he returned to the Broadway stage in Anthony King and Scott Brown’s “Gutenberg! The Musical!” opposite Andrew Rannells.
For his role as Olaf, Gad won two Annie Awards, and for his work in “The Book of Mormon,” he received a Grammy Award and a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. In film, Gad has starred in hit films such “Murder on the Orient Express,” “The Wedding Ringer,” and the critically acclaimed “Marshall.”
In television, Gad played a fictionalized version of himself on FX’s “The Comedians” opposite Billy Crystal and most recently starred in both Armando Iannuci’s HBO series “Avenue 5” and Apple’s hit animated series “Central Park” which he co-created with “Bob’s Burgers” Creator Loren Bouchard. “Central Park” has been nominated for a 2021 and 2023 NAACP Image Award in the category of Outstanding Animated Series, a 2022 Hollywood Critics Association Television Award in the category of Best Streaming Animated Series or TV Movie and a 2021 Critics Choice Super Award in the category of Best Animated Series. The show has also won two 2021 Kidscreen Award in the categories Best Animated Series – Tweens/Teens and Best in Class: Tweens/Teens and a 2020 AAFCA TV Honors in the category of Best Animated.
Gad also stars in the Peacock series “Wolf Like Me” opposite Isla Fisher. The series recently wrapped production on its second season.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, where people were encouraged to practice social distancing, Gad launched the YouTube series Reunited Apart, which reunites–via video conferencing– the casts of several popular movies and movie series including “Back to The Future” and “Lord of the Rings.” The series encourages its viewers to support non-profit charities such as Dig Deep, Project Hope, and No Kid Hungry
About the Berkowitz Bros: The Berkowitz Bros. are represented by Sugar23 and legal by Fox Rothschild LLP; the brothers founded their full-service marketing and production firm Not A Billionaire (NAB) in 2015