As you’ve probably by now noticed, we here at Multiversity Comics are pretty deep into “Secret Wars”. The tie ins have been overall, pretty enjoyable and this far into the event, we’ve still got some new series to look forward to. One of these new series is “1872” by Gerry Duggan and Nik Virella. Taking place in Timely, within the Battleworld, “1872” presents a Wild West version of many classic Marvel characters. This is one the MC2’s most anticipated series and that’s only increased by the fact that we’ve seen some of these characters show up in other series during “Secret Wars”. We had the chance to talk with writer Gerry Duggan about this upcoming series and western comics in general.
Also, at the bottom of this post, we have three exclusive, uncolored pages from “1872” #2, drawn by Nik Virella. Make sure to check them out after the interview.
“1872” #1 is available this Wednesday, July 8th.
How did the project come together? Was this something you pitched?
Gerry Duggan: Yes, it was pitched in the editorial retreat when we were discussing the composition of Battleworld. This is a godless western, so Doom doesn’t quite factor in, but it only adds to the idea that this Town is in a forsaken patch of scorched earth. I’m grateful to Jonathan [Hickman] and the event for the opportunity to write this comic. I have to credit the men and women in the room too, not only was the idea greeted enthusiastically but everyone was very generous with their ideas. I could write this comic for a century. No lie, I probably have more story ideas for this series than could be printed in a single omnibus, and the first issue isn’t on stands yet. I wake up and often have a new idea in my head.
Marvel hasn’t had too many prominent Western comics behind it. Where did you look for inspiration?
GD: I love westerns. I’ve passed that love onto my son, too. We watch them together, and he has a lot of western toys. Many of my favorite films are westerns, and this comic was a good excuse to go back and enjoy my favorites. I’m lucky to live in Los Angeles, I’ve seen The Good, The Bad & The Ugly projected in the last few months, and Tarantino’s theater The New Beverly is often showing westerns, many of which are prints that belong to him. I also am a member and frequent visitor to The Autry museum of the west. They have an amazing authentic collection from our western heritage as well as film props from Eastwood. Anybody visiting Los Angeles should spend a day there, they also have the best food of any museum — they’re grilling everything right out back. Highly recommended.
What’s been the best part about writing this series? I can imagine that there’s a certain degree of freedom to do a lot of new things with these characters. Has that made things easier or more difficult?
GD: We’re playing pretty rough with the toys. It’s been a real joy. I think by the time the second issue arrives you’re going to feel like you got kicked with a horse.
“1872” seems unique among the other “Secret Wars” titles in that it cannot be directly tied to another series or crossover. You’re essentially working with new characters. How do you approach establishing these Westernized Marvel heroes in just one tie-in series?
GD: It’s fun to drop readers into Timely. There will be a great many visual cues, and Easter eggs, and I think readers might will have a difficult time guessing where this one is going to lead us.
How was it trying to find the balance of new and familiar with already established characters?
GD: For the most part, we’re collaborating in a new world. We’re seeing the Marvel universe as it exists in 1872. There are no super powers here. Steve Rogers was never injected with any serum. The world is a primordial soup awaiting a big bang.
How has it been working with Nik Virella? What can you tease about her work on this series?
GD: She’s been a complete joy. The perfect collaborator. Many of the things you’ll love in this book are sprung from her mind. It’s her book now.
Did you have any favorite Western comics or movies growing up that influenced the series?
GD: All the Marvel westerns, I really enjoyed Jimmy and Justin’s westerns at DC, and too many films to name. Everything Leone, Once Upon A Time In The West, Unforgiven, Tombstone, there’s also some of Friedkin’s Sorcerer in our DNA. It’s not a western, but it’s an amazing film. Star Wars came out a week after it, and the audience dried up, but make no mistake — it’s a masterpiece.
Western comics have had a niche place in the market. “The Sixth Gun” seems to be the sole Western title left after DC stopped its “All-Star Western” title a few months back. Do you feel there’s any stigma towards Western Comics and if so how have you tried to tiptoe around that?
GD: I don’t know what people want. I never know. My only rule for writing comics is to write a comic I would myself purchase, and then I try to surprise people. I’m positive this is a comic that will take people by surprise, because it’s taken Nik, the editors and I by surprise. If you love westerns, you’re going to love this. If you don’t enjoy westerns, but love Marvel comics, you’re about to love your first western.
Rawhide Kid. What’s your hot take?
GD: I’d ride hard with him.
Here are three exclusive Nik Virella pages from “1872” #2, due out July 22. Big thanks to Marvel to providing these!
