Get ready to learn from a master of storytelling! David Avallone, a filmmaker-turned-comic-book-writer, has been working in the film industry since the early ’90s. But most recently, he’s been making waves in the comic book world. We sat down with David to discuss the two fields and what aspiring filmmakers (and comic book writers) should know about breaking into their industry. And if you’re a fan of steampulp adventures, retro heroes like Doc Savage and The Shadow, or ghoulishly sexy Halloween tales, you won’t want to miss David’s insights!Have you ever wondered how comic book stories come to life? Well, wonder no more! David Avallone, the mastermind behind Elvira and Doc Savage, spills the beans on the creative process. So, do publishers dictate the story or do writers pitch them? According to David, it all starts with a call from the editor, who gives a brief on what they want. In the case of Elvira, they wanted something that reflected her character, brand, and style. David then goes away to brainstorm and comes up with a pitch that goes to Dynamite and Elvira for approval. Once approved, he writes the script and works closely with the artist to bring the story to life. And voila! A comic book is born.
But what about historical accuracy? David is a huge research guy and often finds inspiration in history books. For instance, when he was working on Doc Savage, he stumbled upon an interesting fact about Amelia Earhart, which led him to write a story about her. Research not only gives him the story but also the meaning and the end. However, with Elvira, he allows himself more wiggle room because it’s a comedy.
And finally, let’s talk about David’s latest project with Kevin Eastman, the creator of Ninja Turtles. They crowdfunded their comic book, Drawing Blood, and raised everything they needed and more. The trade paperback should be out soon. So, there you have it, folks! The creative process behind comic book stories.
Artwork by Kevin Eastman and Ben Bishop (Courtesy of David Avallone).
Are you an aspiring comic book artist? Do you dream of working in the industry? Well, we’ve got some advice from Hollywood veteran David Avallone. His first tip? Always do your own stuff. Comics don’t require anything but your time and talent, so show people that you can invent, too. Don’t just draw Batman. Be original and create a web comic or something entirely new.
But how do you get your foot in the door? Attend conventions and meet people. There are pros at every con, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. Be cool, don’t push, and talk about things that excite you. Don’t just talk about their work, talk about things you both enjoy. When David Avallone met Kevin Eastman, they didn’t talk about the Ninja Turtles. They talked about old World War II comics from the ’70s they both grew up on. Make friends and be kind. It’s not a job interview, so don’t make it feel like one.
Image courtesy of David Avallone.
Remember, industries like comics and movies are “all who you know.” So be a good friend and support other artists, writers, colorists, letterers, actors, and filmmakers. No one does it alone. We all grow out of a community, so find your people, be good to them, and it’ll all flow from there.
Looking for more industry interviews? Check these out:
- Filmmaker Wendy McColm on the Meisner Technique and her Feature BIrds Without Feathers
- Go Behind Pulp Fiction’s Gimp Mask with Steve Hibbert
- Round Table: Scream Queens on What Every Horror Director Needs to Know
- Interview: Keeping Score with Film and Television Composer Nathan Barr
- Interview: The Editor of “This is America” on Building the Iconic Video
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