With the first issue of Crownsville releasing in November from Oni Press, we are delighted to be joined by the Co-Creator of Killadelphia, Rodney Barnes. Rodney is an award-winning writer, producer, and comic book creator.
Hi Rodney, it’s great to have you back with us again.
Could you tell us about the origins of Crownsville?
The story was born over years of hearing about the place. It was the ultimate haunted house. A place of pain and mystery with an uncertain ending. The hospital was established in the early 1900s. Members of my family worked there. A few were patients as well.
Who is Paul Blair?
The guy I pretended to be when I was a kid. The center of the noir mysteries running through my immigration. At the heart of it, he’s a good man. A man that cares about other people.
What made Elia Bonetti the right artist for Crownsville?
His style. Moody. Atmospheric. Elia’s art adds an intangible part to the story. Something beyond my words and ideas. An energy that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. His work is genius. Honored to be taking this ride with him.
How long have you been working on Crownsville?
Close to ten years. At first, it was to be a novel. Time didn’t allow for that. So, I pivoted to a graphic novel. Beyond my day jobs, I was too close to the material emotionally. Walking the line between entertainment and exploration is thin. I think we found the right balance.
Could you tell us about the world that Crownsville is set in?
It’s a modern-day tale that’s steeped in history. The town adjacent to it, Annapolis, is my hometown. It was a slave port. I’ve always felt that history and the history of Crownsville are connected. I think you can feel that in the story.
What can you tell us about Crownsville?
It’s scary as a piece of horror fiction. It’s scary as a piece of history. There are several unmarked graves there. Crownsville is a piece of history that screams to be heard. Just doing my part to add to the chorus.
Any message for the ComicBuzz readers?
I’d be honored for you to give Crownsville a read. It’s not medicine, but it’s good for you.
We would like to say a big thank you to Rodney for chatting with us and wish him the best of luck with Crownsville.
