Out Of This World Comics

Humanoids Publishing, the American graphic novel arm of French science fiction and fantasy publisher the Humanoids Group, began publishing English language editions of its acclaimed and lavishly illustrated graphic novels in 1999. "The book trade was not hospitable to graphic novels, but things have changed for comics in the book market," said Justin Connally, director of the U.S. operations.

In the past three years the recognition of the sophistication and diversity of book format comics and much improved distribution to general trade bookstores is generating greater sales.

Now Humanoids is publishing about 20 to 30 books titles a year, most of them reprints of the house's extensive French backlist, which features the best European artists and science fiction writers, among them Moebius, Enkil Bilal and Juan Gimenez. Connally noted that the house plans to expand its list with original material and is looking for American writers and artists to publish. As part of this effort the house is relaunching Metal Hulant, the legendary French comics periodical (it was the model for Heavy Metal, the American comics anthology) that folded in 1987. The new MH will feature serialized stories by European writers such as Alexandro Jodorowsky and Portela and now American writer Kurt Busiek.

Humanoid's books do not stint on production. Their hardcovers are oversized and the artwork can be dazzling in its detail and richness. "Books are our business," said Connally, "but the periodical will be important in marketing them." Humanoids is also publishing Miss: Better Living Through Crime by Philippe Thirault, Marc Riou and Mark Vigouroux, a new crime noir work released this summer. Set in 1920s New York City, it's the story of Enola and Slim, a poor white girl and black pimp who team up as an unlikely murder team.

The house has also published Enki Bilal's eerie and acclaimed science fiction epic The Nikopol Trilogy, currently being adapted into a feature film by the artist.

"In 2000 we couldn't get a bookstore to sell our books," said Connally. "But now what a difference. We're selling thousands of books and getting attention in the mass market media."