OAKLAND – A new graphic novel chronicling the clandestine adventures of CruZader-Agent of the Vatican is poised for a 2014 launch and gathering support via Kickstarter.com. The cover of the graphic novel will feature artwork by comic book legend Paul Gulacy.
The story, from creator and publisher Omar Morales, revolves around the monk-like title character, Antonio De La Cruz, a reluctant priest who is re-trained as a holy warrior for the Pope. De La Cruz must embrace his destiny in order to defend the Vatican from an invading army of radicalized terrorists … who are much more than what they appear.
“The story is a classic action-adventure comic book, and what drives it is the inner conflict that Antonio suffers as a result of the often violent duties he carries out on behalf of the Vatican,” said Morales. “There is strain and tension in his relationship with the Pope, and he keeps a very big secret from the Pontiff, adding to the intrigue.”
The 140-page, full-color graphic novel will be available via Morales’ Web site, www.theforcemedia.com. He is currently taking pledges via the popular crowd-funding Web site, Kickstarter, and offering rewards and incentives for backers as well as comic book retailers.
“The project is already 90% complete, and I’m seeking funding support for printing and distribution,” Morales added. “I’ve poured my heart and soul into the production of the graphic novel with a very talented group of freelance artists over the last five years – and now it’s time to hit the launch button.”
Morales is buoyed by the success of his first foray into the medium in 2008, when CruZader was a 22-page, one-shot issue. The project placed in the Top 25 in Platinum Studios’ international “Comic Book Challenge,” took first place in the WB TV Network’s “Comic Book Hero” competition, and received local media coverage and TV exposure in the Bay Area.
CruZader images and videos are viewable at the Kickstarter site: http://kck.st/15I5bUI
For more information, contact: info@theforcemdia.com
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