Scout Comics is set to publish a graphic novel series that finds a heroic Orson Welles defending the Earth from alien invaders.
In Milton Lawson’s Orson Welles: Warrior of the Worlds, the October 30, 1938 radio show was no joke. Following his first run-in with aliens, Welles joins an organization that defends the Earth from extraterrestrial threats as he lives a double life — film director by day, alien-hunter by night.
Publication will likely take place in 2021, Lawson told Wellesnet.
“I’m a devoted cinephile and a long-time fan of Orson Welles, it’s a dream come true to be able to tell a story starring Welles,” Lawson said. “I’m thrilled by the opportunity to work with Scout Comics. Metalshark Bro and Canopus are comic titles that have inspired me with their inventiveness and ability to use the comics medium to tell imaginative, original stories.”
The project has been in development for more than two years.
The Houston-based Lawson (Four Texans in Europe, Roger Ebert & Me) had attempted a year ago to self-publish Warrior of the Worlds through a crowdfunding effort before striking a deal with Scout Comics.
The structure of the graphic novel pays tribute to Citizen Kane. Following Welles death in 1985, he leaves a lifelong friend a clue that leads her to search for answers to many mysteries Welles left behind. She finds herself in over her head — encountering secret government agents, laser guns, and an advanced alien technology. Film lovers will find several easter eggs and Welles aficionados will notice thematic parallels between the alien-hunting warrior and the maverick film director. (See trailer and sample artwork below).
Scout Comics has already begun offering a wide variety of merchandize for sale on its website. T-shirts, travel mugs, posters and more nay be found at scoutcomics.com/collections/orson-welles-warrior-of-the-world
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