Last week, San Diego Comic-Con captivated fans with an array of mesmerizing, never-before-seen movie snippets, ranging from the highly anticipated opening 20 minutes of "The Long Walk," two extended scenes from "Tron: Ares," to the hilarious initial five minutes of "Project Hail Mary." However, one thing notably absent? A sneak peek at a film entirely new to everyone's radar.
An exception emerged towards the close of Thursday's Aspen Comics panel, where attendees were treated to a "super-early, super-rough" teaser for "Ekos," an upcoming film that has been gestating for several years. This trailer, drawing inspiration from the works of late artist and Aspen Comics founder Michael Turner, alongside writer Geoff Johns, served as a preview to a whole new cinematic universe. Initially meant for eyes in the room alone, the overwhelming positive reception prompted the Mythos Studios team to make it available online.
The unexpected revelation was set up by David Maisel, the founder and chairman of Mythos Studios, renowned for his role as the founding chairman of Marvel Studios. Here, he conceptualized the strategy of interconnected films, launched the "Iron Man" franchise, and orchestrated Marvel's sale to Disney in 2009 before stepping down. At the Aspen Comics panel's conclusion, Maisel mentioned how one of his proudest achievements at Marvel was introducing end-credits scenes, hinting that what he was about to show could be considered the panel's equivalent. He lightheartedly added, "When I realized my Marvel family wasn't presenting in Hall H this year, they asked me to step in" and replicate that magic for the fans present.
The Hollywood Reporter spoke to several attendees, with many likening the experience to witnessing the Comic-Con debut of "Iron Man's" first footage in 2007. Maisel is currently in search of a partner to bring this film to life, set in a universe where Turner's characters can interact, akin to the MCU. Turner, who passed away from cancer in 2008, is celebrated for titles like "Fathom," the best-selling comic of 1998, and "Soulfire."
The teaser trailer follows the release of "Ekos" Vol. 1, a graphic novel launched earlier this year, fueled by over $250,000 raised through a Kickstarter campaign. It predominantly centers on the character Grell, whom Maisel envisions as a breakthrough in the film. As depicted in the footage, Grell is concerned about the devastation plaguing the planet, solemnly stating, "The world needs a wake-up call."
