The Energon Pub

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MIKE GRELL & MARK RYAN ANNOUNCE NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL “THE PILGRIM” AT COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL

The Modern-Day Thriller is Based on True Events of Paranormal Espionage from World War II

San Diego, CA – July 27, 2007: Veteran comic book creators Mike Grell and Mark Ryan announced today at Comic-Con International they are reuniting to produce a graphic novel called The Pilgrim, based on historical events of psychic espionage during World War II. The modern-day story is adapted from a screenplay written by Ryan (Transformers, The Prestige), which will be illustrated by Grell (Green Arrow, Ironman, Batman.) Ryan and Grell originally worked together in 1991 to develop the 50th Anniversary Edition of the comic-book Green Arrow for DC Comics. The team expects to build a strong following for The Pilgrim and plans to also develop it into a theatrical release.

Ryan, who has a military background, was inspired to write The Pilgrim upon learning about the use of psychics during World War II by Allied forces to infiltrate Nazi Germany. According to Ryan, “The Pilgrim is inspired by true events during World War II, yet it’s a modern-day story that intertwines characters with paranormal abilities used to tap into terrorists’ attack schemes to aide the military. It’s been a labor of love, fifteen years in the making.”

Grell, known for his distinctive and highly detailed depictions of story adaptations, had this to add, "From the first time Mark told me the story of THE PILGRIM, I've been pestering him to write it just so I could read it. Getting the chance to illustrate it is a bonus. This is a story that would give Stephen King the willies and I'm very excited to be part of bringing it to life. And it is, you know... alive, I mean."

The Pilgrim will be developed as a graphic novel with an adult format. The team believes the story will appeal to fans of dark comics as well as sci-fi and horror. They are in negotiations for publication and will announce distribution details for The Pilgrim shortly. Ryan and Grell announced the new project at Comic-Con International, the world’s largest comic book event.

Mike Grell is awesome.