Yesterday saw the launch of a Kickstarter campaign for The Legend of Kingdom Come, a new feature-length documentary about the making of the iconic 1996 DC Comics series by Mark Waid and Alex Ross. The film delves into the origins of the project, and examines why it has endured for nearly thirty years. Today The Beat is pleased to offer an exclusive first look at a clip from the film in which series artist Ross paints the future Superman of Kingdom Come.
Here’s the trailer for the film, as well as the synopsis from yesterday’s announcement:
Directed by Remsy Atassi and produced by Ross’s art dealer and longtime friend Sal Abbinanti, THE LEGEND OF KINGDOM COME not only celebrates the groundbreaking work of Alex Ross but also traces the influence of comics through the present day, exploring the roots of pop culture’s most vibrant medium in the 21st century. For the first time, fans will have the opportunity to hear directly from the creative team of Mark Waid and Alex Ross along with a wide range of comic luminaries through exclusive interviews and original footage, reflecting on the legacy of KINGDOM COME and the rich history of comics as a cornerstone of modern pop culture that has captivated audiences everywhere. Featuring commentary by the following and more:
- Todd McFarlane Creator of “Spawn” and co-founder of Image Comics, known for revolutionizing creator-owned comics)
- Julie Benson and Shawna Benson, acclaimed writing duo known for their work on “Batgirl and the Birds of Prey” and “The 100,” bringing fresh perspectives and dynamic storytelling to modern comics
- Paul Dini, Acclaimed writer and producer, co-creator of Harley Quinn and a driving force behind “Batman: The Animated Series.”
Alex Ross’s rendering of KINGDOM COME is a pivotal example in the evolution of comic art and visual storytelling. His lifelike, painterly approach brought a new level of realism and gravitas to comics, influencing how superheroes are depicted today.
Arguably one of the most influential comics of the past thirty years, due in no small part to Ross’s groundbreaking painted artwork, Kingdom Come serves as a critique of superhero comics trends in the ’90s and a treatise on the nature of heroism. The book has been released in numerous formats over the years since its release, and spawned a number of sequel and prequel projects both from Ross and, recently, from Waid in the pages of Batman/Superman: World’s Finest.
Watch the exclusive clip of Ross painting the Superman of Kingdom Come below. The Kickstarter campaign for The Legend of Kingdom Come is live now, and runs through Friday, October 25th.
