If you’re a fan of the original Deathgasm (2015), a film sequel’s great news. But there’s more. Two additional creative efforts by Bit Bot Media will expand the Deathgasm universe in more metal ways that ever. That includes a graphic novel, Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut designed as a prelude to the new movie Deathgasm II: Goremagedon.
Also, Bit Bot, Deathgasm director Jason Howden’s Metalheads Inc., and FreakZone Games are joining forces to develop a retro-style 16-bit side-scrolling Deathgasm video game.
Backers can get early access before the game is made available to the public, and physical copies will be available exclusively through a Kickstarter campaign. Fans can visit the Kickstarter page to show support and learn more.
Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut is an 80-page graphic novel from writer/creator/director Howden (Deathgasm, Guns Akimbo) writer Peter Bune (Squatch Watch), artist Industrias Lamonicana (Fierro), colorist Zac Atkinson (Farscape, Star Trek), and letterer Jeremiah Lambert (Masters of the Universe, Transformers).
The book also features contributions from writers Michael Schwartz (Armored, Zombie Town) and Joshua Viola (True Believers, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver), various hardcover editions with cover art by Skinner (Skin Crawl Magazine), Preston Asevedo (The Exiled), and Matthew Therrien (The Wrath of Becky).
Wicked Horror posed a few questions to Viola in anticipation of the new projects and what to expect from the graphic novel.
WH: Before we go further, what was your first encounter with the first Deathgasm film? It’s almost 10 years old, which doesn’t seem quite possible. Many people have discovered it in the intervening years.
Joshua Viola: Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been almost a decade! I can’t remember where I saw the trailer, but once I did, I knew I had to see it. I kept an eye out and waited until it was available OnDemand in its first year. I loved it so much that I had my brother over the next night to watch it again.
WH: How did you get involved with the upcoming sequel, Deathgasm II: Goremageddon.
Joshua Viola: I’m a producer on the film, which is being produced by Raven Banner Entertainment. My other company, Bit Bot Entertainment, is a partner with Raven Banner, and we’re collaborating on several productions. However, it was Deathgasm that initially led to this partnership. As soon as I learned they were working on a new movie, I reached out and got involved almost immediately.
Fans might be able to nab a special Zakk mask via the Deathgasm Kickstarter
WH: What can you reveal about that film? Any insights? Any hints of what it will entail?
Joshua Viola: I’m actually heading to the set tomorrow for a cameo. All I can share is that it’s going to be crazier, funnier, and much bloodier than the first one. I can’t wait to experience it with all the fans!
WH: You’re involved in the graphic novel Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut. Is there anything you can reveal about that project?
Joshua Viola: Yes, my company, Metal X Entertainment, is publishing the graphic novel. I contributed to a short recap of the first film in the initial pages and helped organize the project. It takes place between the first film and the new one, bridging the gap between the two. We’re also offering some exciting merch, including latex masks of Aeloth, Brodie, and Zakk. Additionally, we’re collaborating with FreakZone Games on a Deathgasm video game!
WH: How does it build to the second film? Is it important for fans to rush out and find copies or back the Kickstarter to get in on the graphic novel and rewards?
Joshua Viola: It definitely complements both movies with its own story and enhances the overall experience. It’s hilarious, and it’s even bloodier and crazier than anything in the films.
WH: What else is on the horizon for you?
Joshua Viola: I’m currently working on a graphic novel prequel for the Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver franchise. Additionally, I’m involved with several upcoming video games, licensed IPs, and movies.
Check out the Deathgasm Kickstarter here.