First Comics News: Why do you keep writing, what does it do for you personally?
Dolan Waddick: Well, there are a few reasons. One of which is that I enjoy doing it. This is something I’ve wanted to do since I was in first grade and as far as I’m concerned, I’m living the dream. Another is that I’m getting better with each script I write. Lastly, because I have a massive chip on my shoulder. Some nasty things were said about me personally and professionally behind my back by a former publisher so I’m doing everything I can to prove them wrong.
1st: How did you join TCM Press?
Dolan: Well, this all started back in April of this year. I had just lost a good friend of mine to suicide earlier in the day and was pretty distraught. However, later that same day, I got a message from Tiago De Silva and Steven Finkel, (the owner of The Comic Mint and TCM Press), saying that they’d like to work with me on a new project, which turned out to be ‘Silent Nights.’ Naturally, I was ALL OVER the place emotionally that day.
I told them I would be able to knock out a first draft in a day and fortunately enough for me, they were impressed with it which led to me getting MORE opportunities writing with them! I can’t begin to thank both of them enough for believing in me and giving me this tremendous opportunity. Steve is not only an incredible publisher but a great human being. NEVER before have I had so much fun creating characters and worlds.
1st: In “Unholy Nightmare” who are the Police Officer and vigilante and what is their relationship?
Dolan: The police officer is Jenny Talbot and the vigilante is The Recluse and their relationship is…complicated. They start off as partners and friends, however, as things progress, their relationship gets complicated. That’s all I’ll say for now. Just know there is a plan and I already have the first 12 issues completely written.
1st: What type of monsters and demons will appear in the pages of “Unholy Nightmare”?
Dolan: Oh, we’re going to see some monsters and creatures that David Cronenberg, Screaming Mad George, and Clive Barker would be proud of. With a title like ‘Unholy Nightmare’, you MUST live up to that title. We’re going to have the full gauntlet of creatures from undead bodies to things even Hell would be terrified to have. I don’t want to spoil anything, but we’re only getting warmed up.
1st: In “Silent Nights” who is that female on the cover holding a gun?
Dolan: That is the lead character and operative code named ‘Kira’. She’s Russian, likes to smoke, and enjoys the company of powerful men. The reader will slowly learn more about her, her background, and the faction she works for.
Fun fact, Kira actually all started from a pinup of her by co-creator Tiago De Silva.
1st: What is the story in “Silent Night”?
Dolan: This will be a story involving espionage and robotics. We will see the story gradually unfold with this faction, a company that may have some shady plans, and some robots. But with all these elements, there will be PLENTY of action, erotica, and mystery. The reader will be gradually introduced to characters as we go as well as twists and turns.
1st: What about “Depths of Valor” will attract readers to it?
Dolan: One factor will be artist Nate Watson. This guy is INCREDIBLE, fun to work with, and I believe people will be blown away by his keen eye for detail, emotion and action. Another factor will be the story. This is based on a true story about a German U-Boat that was discovered 60 miles off the New Jersey coast in the 1990s. Even stranger, according to Nazi Party records, that U-Boat was recorded as having been sunk off the coast of Morocco. We’re going to be exploring that final mission of the U-Boat, how it got so close, and what it was carrying.
This is a story Steve wanted to turn into a novel, but it never worked out. But thankfully with me, we’re making it a reality.
1st In “Depths of Valor” who are the main characters?
Dolan: We will be following 2 characters: a father and son. This is a story that will be told in modern day as well as in 1945 as the son is discovering a whole other life about his father he never knew. Essentially, this is a man he never knew. What does that do to a son who’s a father himself? What will be the fallout from this revelation? Well, we’re going to explore ALL OF THAT as well and I STRONGLY believe that people will be gripped by the drama, action, and the horror.
1st What do you use in your writing to grab people’s attention?
Dolan: Well, I like to think of it as a toolbox. I like to utilize cliffhangers, effective page turns, shocking action, and fun dialogue. You have to keep the reader engaged as well as their eyes constantly moving or else they’ll get bored and tune out. Another factor is KNOWING the page count as to which side of the comic that page number is on. These are small details that A LOT of writers and publishers just don’t know or care about today. Thankfully, I have an AMAZING editor in Aaron Sparrow who’s helped me become a stronger writer.
1st: What does it take to be a good writer?
Dolan: I’m still figuring that out! One of the things I’ve learned is saying to yourself, “you may think this is perfect, but it’s NOT perfect.” This allows you to be open to criticism and critiques. Another is following deadlines, (I ALWAYS turn in my scripts early.) Communication is another one as well. Communicating with the artists, the letterer, and the publisher. Making sure EVERYONE knows what your goal of the comic is and what you want the reader to take away from it. I know there’s more, but I feel like that would be a whole article itself.
1st What is the worst nightmare you ever had?
Dolan: I had a nightmare of Freddy Krueger, (Nightmare on Elm Street), stabbing me as I was turning a corner around a building. I woke RIGHT UP screaming and I’ve never forgotten it.
1st Do you have any ideas for more comics series?
Dolan: I have PLENTY of ideas and I will be busy for a LONG TIME! Not only will I be writing for Steve but I’m writing between 6-8 different projects for Marat Mychales right now. Some of which will be coming out next year! But, I always make time and enjoy writing for people who have an idea that I think will be fun to explore and develop.
1st: If you could have one super power what would it be and why?
Dolan: Body possession similar to Deadman. I think it would be fun to make people look like complete jerks in public.
1st: What would you like to say to your fans?
Dolan: From the bottom of my heart, I want to say a big THANK YOU for sticking with me the past few years and I hope you have managed to convince your friends to take a chance on me as well. I’m thankful and blessed every day for having you all in my life. If you’re at New York Comic Con, be sure to find me at The Comic Mint & TCM Press Booth, (Booth # 3635). I’d love to shake your hand and say thank you.
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