The following is an interview with Chris Chandler regarding the release of the comic book series, Space Precinct Zero. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Chandler about the creative process of bringing the story to life, the plan for the series’ first story arc, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the release of your comic book series, Space Precinct Zero! For those who may be unfamiliar, what can you tell us about the premise of the series?
Chris Chandler: Thank you, it’s definitely been an exciting and rewarding experience! The series revolves around an alien invasion and how several specific characters deal with it. They range from a new recruit fresh from the Space Corps Training Academy who still isn’t sure she wants this life or is even capable of it, to a “Scheme Officer” who is working off a debt of sorts. You’ll learn more about him in the book.
BD: How would you describe your creative process in conjunction with artist Jayson Santos in bringing this story to life, and what (or who) were some of your creative influences in terms of the characters and tone?
CC: The whole process was quite laid back. I recently published a quick blog post detailing the whole process. I’d send along the script a few pages at a time, and Jay would return with the storyboards. We’d discuss how to improve on them together, Jay would make any alterations, and when the storyboards were finalized he’d get to work on the pencils. With more detail added, we would then look at how to improve it yet again before the final inks were laid down. Then, I personally lettered and produced the final pages. I love working with Jay, and every page – even the final page of Chapter Two that I recently received – has been exciting.
BD: At Fanbase Press this year, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that Space Precinct Zero‘s story will connect with and impact readers?
CC: This story deals with self-doubt, duty, dedication, loss, love, family… I think there’s something in there for everyone – at least one character that the reader may identify with or sympathize with on some level. I’m sure everybody has doubted themselves at some point or has lost someone, and I hope these characters resonate with readers.
BD: With issue two slated for release later this year, do you have a total number of issues planned for the first story arc of the series?
CC: The first story is a three-issue arc, but there are plans in place to follow on with an additional 3+ issues.
BD: Are there any other upcoming projects on which you are working that you are able to share with our readers?
CC: I am working on an anthology series titled Tales of the Crimson Hood which focuses on a secret identity passed down through history. One story has The Crimson Hood as a medieval knight, another as a soldier in World War II. It’s rooted in fantasy, so expect lots of strange and unusual happenings!
I have also been working on a few other projects on and off, such as paranormal novella series, The Sceptic Truth. You can read the first few chapters for free at ChansBS.com.
BD: Lastly, what would you like to tell fans who want to learn more about Space Precinct Zero?
CC: Chapter One is available for free through my online store at ChansBS.com, so I hope that will answer any questions fans may have! You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Ko-Fi (@ChansBScom).
