By Julia Fitzpatric
The comic book writer and artist Frank Miller has founded an independent comic book publishing company. The eponymous Frank Miller Presents (FMP) was announced on 28 April. In a statement, Miller said that “Investing in artists and the future of comics has always been my one true passion and creative calling.” Miller will work as president and editor-in-chief of FMP. He is joined by Dan DiDio, co-publisher of DC Comics between 2010 and 2020, as FMP’s publisher. The CEO of Frank Miller Inc. Silenn Thomas, will be FMP’s COO.
Miller, who has been creating comic books, graphic novels and screenplays for decades, has been noted for his distinctive style. Combining elements of film noir and manga in his comic art, he has previously explained that his work represents a hybrid between American and Japanese comic styles. Series such as Daredevil, Ronin, Sin City and 300 have received critical acclaim and been influential for newer creators. Miller has, however, been the subject of controversy; his graphic novel, Holy Terror, was criticized for Islamophobia, with Miller later saying he regretted writing the book.
Frank Miller Presents aims to publish between two and four new titles every year, which will “capture Miller’s distinct visual style.” The content will be a combination of Miller’s own work with new comics from other contributors, including rising stars and established figures within the industry. FMP has not bought the rights to any of Miller’s old books, which were published by companies including DC and Dark Horse. However, the first two titles confirmed by FMP are sequels to two of Miller’s classics. Rōnin Book Two will continue his dystopian samurai tale set in New York, originally published in the 1980s. Sin City 1858 is a continuation of Miller’s Western neo-noir series, which was adapted into a cult-classic movie. FMP has also announced two original works, titled Pandora and Ancient Enemies, but details of their content are not yet known.
The company has not yet confirmed details on which titles Miller himself will be working on, nor which other artists will publish through FMP. They have, however, signed an exclusive distribution deal with Diamond Comic Distributors and aim to release their first publications within the year. Miller expressed his optimism about their prospects: “It’s a new day and I’m excited by this partnership. We are eager and ready to start.”