A comic book adaptation of Glitch Productions’ Murder Drones animated series is headed to Kickstarter from Oni Press in the form of a 136-page graphic novel by Wyatt Kennedy and Jo Mi-Gyeong.
Murder Drones (created by Liam Vickers) is a Webby Award-winning animated series that has generated more than 330 million views since it first debuted in 2021.
We spoke to Kennedy all about the challenges in adapting Murder Drones and what he loves about the crazy robots in this exclusive interview with the writer.
For those unfamiliar with the world of Murder Drones, what can you tell us about it?
Wyatt Kennedy: Murder Drones is an adaptation of the cartoon of the same name. It’s a dark comedy action story about a planet of robotic worker drones fighting against an evil corporate oligarch that wants them annihilated but with even more devious secrets under the surface.
What are the challenges when it comes to adapting an animated series to the comics medium?
Kennedy: Really it’s trying to fit as much on the page without cluttering it. There’s a sense of rhythm and pace you have to preserve, and then hopefully being able to communicate that effectively to the illustrator.
What does Jo Mi-Gyeong bring to the material and your scripts that surprised you?
Kennedy: I think Jo’s work ethic and artistic command of the medium is second to none. I’m really stoked for people to see how they’ve translated this world.
Do you have a favorite character to write in Murder Drones?
Kennedy: Probably N. He’s just out here doing his best.
How much oversight did you have from Glitch when it came to telling the story and using the characters?
Kennedy: They were very easy to work with! Upfront they told me what they wanted out of the adaptation and how closely they wanted it to adhere, which made my work a lot easier. I definitely tried to get it as close as possible.
Thoughts on Kickstarter as a venue to promote and sell a graphic novel?
Kennedy: That’s a better question for the publishers and money men haha! I don’t really pay attention to sales, but for a project like this I think it’s a great way to get this to the diehard fans and give them a genuinely exciting experience.
Upcoming projects?
Kennedy: I’m almost always working, and I’m juggling about 6 unannounced projects. Right now I still write my Image ongoing series Nights with my co-creator and best friend Luigi Formisano. Issue 16 hits shelves on October 26th, and my first series with Marvel, Wiccan: Witches Road, debuts in December.
Murder Drones is available to back on Kickstarter until October 14.
