(NEW YORK, NY, February 18, 2003) We’ve already previewed Gentle Giant and Dark Horse Comics’ mini-busts for 2003. What are Dark Horse Horse’s plans for comics this coming year? We had a brief chat with Dirk Wood, National Account Sales Manager for Dark Horse Comics at their showroom in Toy Fair.
GH: How have the Republic and Empire concept worked for you so far?
Dirk: Really well. As a matter of fact I was recently reading a comic retailer magazine and the demand for both of those series have spiked big time from any other Star Wars we’ve done for awhile along with Infinities.
GH: Speaking of Infinities, any plans for a series based on Return Of The Jedi?
Dirk: I’m 90% sure yes. As far as when, I’m not sure. But it’s coming.
GH: From a sales standpoint, how have Star Wars comics performed for you overall?
Dirk: Really well and still No. 1. I deal more with the products than I do with the books but the Star Wars busts have been my number one seller in my accounts by far. Star Wars continues to be the big hitter with us.
GH: After speaking with Dev (Gilmore, of Gentle Giant Studios), there are apparently some plans about some upcoming new mini-busts based on the original trilogy. Care to share any more about that?
Dirk: They’re working on a Chewbacca, I know, that’s supposed to be awesome. I’m pretty sure there are plans for a Stormtrooper, Royal Guard, and others.
GH: Any plans with Hasbro to produce comic inspired action figures?
Dirk: There’s been a lot of discussion about that, although I don’t know where it’s at right now. What I do know for sure we’re working with Hasbro on is more of the mini-comics in with the action figures, which we’ve done in the past. So you’ll see more of that.
GH: Will that be with Toys R Us again?
Dirk: I do believe. It’s all still in the works, but we’ll see. The creative part of it hasn’t been started, but the actual fact that we’re going to do it is in the works.
GH: Any store exclusives planned?
Dirk: Not that I’m aware of but we’re always looking for it and we’re in talks with a few people. We’ll have to see.
GH: Thanks for your time and talking with us.
Dirk: My pleasure.
