If you’re a graphic novel fan, you already know about the much anticipated Watchmen movie coming out March 6, 2009. The marketing budget for this film is huge; downtown Montreal has ads all over the subway system, and L.A. and New York have everything from Watchmen Billboards to wrapped cars.
If you have no idea what Watchmen is all about, here’s a quick bio: Watchmen is a twelve issue DC comic book limited series created by writer Alan Moore, artist Dave Gibbons, and colorist John Higgins. Published in single issues during 1986 and 1987, you may now buy all twelve issues collected in one hard or soft cover graphic novel.
Watchmen has been the subject of several essays and serious literary discussions. It was named one of the 100 greatest novels of the past century by Time Magazine. More than twenty years after its release, there is still no greater comic book within the comic book fan community.
Like the X Men movie franchise, I believe that the Watchmen movie will appeal to fans and non-fans alike. Due to the complex storyline, I recommend you read the graphic novel before watching the movie if possible.
Urban Comic Promos
'Watchmen' Publicity in Full Force Around the World
Trend Themes
1. Comic Book Movies - Opportunity to create publicity and marketing campaigns for upcoming comic book based movies to create hype and new fans.
2. Graphic Novels in Mainstream Media - Opportunity for graphic novel publishers to expand to mainstream media by partnering with TV or streaming production houses for converting comics into TV shows or movies.
3. Multi-platform Marketing - Opportunity for companies and marketers to create cross-platform marketing campaigns for movies, TV shows, and comics, reaching a wider audience across multiple media.
Industry Implications
1. Film & Entertainment Industry - The film industry can leverage fan followings of comic superheros to create more movies, spin-offs, and prequels, creating new revenue streams and growing audiences.
2. Publishing Industry - The publishing industry can create a new fanbase for graphic novels by partnering with established TV or streaming platforms to create and publish companion graphic novels for shows or movies.
3. Digital Marketing Industry - Companies can use digital marketing techniques, such as social media, influencer marketing, and SEO to boost the visibility and relevance of comic book movies or TV shows, reaching a larger audience.