Della Holman
In a world where reality television reigns supreme, the line between the tangible and the supernatural is often blurred. The latest addition to the expansive universe of comics, “The Tormented,” promises to explore this boundary, delving deep into the paranormal realms while offering a thrilling narrative that intertwines the supernatural with the mundane. Penned by the prolific duo of Chuck Austen and Patrick Olliffe, this five-issue comic series is set to captivate audiences with its unique blend of horror, mystery, and familial drama.
Scheduled to make its digital debut on March 19, 2024, exclusively on Amazon’s Comixology Originals platform, “The Tormented” follows the journey of Ryan Auster, a young man burdened with a supernatural gift that he has long concealed from the world. Austen, known for his versatile storytelling prowess, provides readers with a protagonist whose life is plagued by ghosts, demons, and otherworldly entities. Yet, it is not the paranormal encounters alone that shape Ryan’s reality, but rather the haunting memories of his past—a past marred by tragedy and loss.
Austen elucidates, “Ryan Auster, our protagonist in The Tormented, sees ghosts but keeps it from his ghost-hunting family because he feared his family more than the ghosts, and because he’s been hiding it his whole life, now in his twenties, he still hasn’t quite learned how to deal with the unexpected spirits, demons, and otherworldly creatures that are constantly invading his life.”
Indeed, the roots of Ryan’s journey can be traced back to his familial lineage, deeply entrenched in ghost hunting. As the son of renowned paranormal investigators Vera and Adam Austerhölle, Ryan inherits a legacy fraught with secrets and mysteries. However, unlike his kin, Ryan cannot perceive the supernatural, which he conceals out of fear and apprehension. Yet, fate has a cruel twist for him, as a tragic incident shatters his world, leaving him orphaned and adrift in a sea of uncertainty.
Olliffe, the artistic mastermind behind the visual narrative of “The Tormented,” sheds light on the creative process, stating, “Once the concept was in place, the designs for the characters came quickly, Ryan popping into my head immediately. I’ve changed my art style for The Tormented to accommodate a darker story, hopefully.”
With Ryan’s life taking an unexpected turn, “The Tormented” charts his descent into reality television, where he becomes the unwitting star of a ghost-hunting show aptly titled “Restless Spirits.” However, as Ryan grapples with the prospect of exposing his supernatural abilities to the world, he inadvertently becomes a beacon for evil forces that seek to unravel the fabric of his reality and plunge him into a maelstrom of darkness.
The narrative arc of “The Tormented” is underpinned by themes of trauma, identity, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Through Ryan’s journey, Austen and Olliffe explore the intricacies of human emotion, weaving a tale that is as poignant as it is chilling. As Ryan navigates the treacherous waters of fame and the supernatural, he is confronted with the ghosts of his past, both literal and metaphorical, forcing him to confront his deepest fears and embrace his true destiny.
Austen, whose illustrious career spans animation, television, and comics, brings his signature blend of wit and gravitas to the pages of “The Tormented.” With credits that include iconic titles such as “Uncanny X-Men,” “JLA,” and “The Avengers,” Austen is no stranger to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences across the globe. His collaboration with Olliffe, a seasoned illustrator with over three decades of experience, breathes life into the world of “The Tormented,” imbuing it with a sense of authenticity and depth that will leave readers spellbound.
“Working with Chuck on The Tormented has been a blast!” says Olliffe. “He and I have developed a great give-and-take working relationship while creating Edgeworld, so we hit the ground running with this new project.”
As readers embark on this supernatural odyssey, they will be treated to a visual feast courtesy of Lee Loughridge, whose vibrant colors bring the world of “The Tormented” to life, and Jodi Wynne, whose deft lettering guides the narrative with precision and clarity. Together, this creative ensemble has crafted a tale that is as visually stunning as it is narratively rich, promising an immersive reading experience unlike any other.
In addition to its gripping storyline and captivating artwork, “The Tormented” also serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and creative synergy. Austen and Olliffe’s partnership is a testament to the enduring appeal of comic books as a medium for storytelling, showcasing the limitless possibilities that arise when two creative minds come together in pursuit of a shared vision.
About the Creators:
Chuck Austen began his career as a commercial illustrator before transitioning into animation and comics. With an impressive body of work that spans multiple genres and mediums, Austen’s storytelling prowess knows no bounds. From his early days as a producer for DreamWorks TV to his work on beloved comic book titles such as “Superman” and “The Avengers,” Austen has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Patrick Olliffe, a veteran comic book illustrator with over 32 years of experience, has lent his artistic talents to some of the biggest names in the industry. From Marvel Comics to DC Comics, Olliffe’s dynamic illustrations have graced the pages of numerous iconic titles, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition. His collaboration with Austen on “The Tormented” marks another milestone in his illustrious career, showcasing his versatility and skill as an artist.
About Comixology Originals:
Amazon’s Comixology Originals platform offers readers exclusive digital content, from comics and graphic novels to manga. With a catalog that continues to expand, Comixology Originals is committed to providing readers with high-quality, immersive storytelling experiences that push the boundaries of the medium. Whether you’re a seasoned comic book enthusiast or a casual reader looking for your next literary adventure, Comixology Originals has something for everyone.
“The Tormented” stands poised to redefine the landscape of supernatural storytelling, offering readers a fresh perspective on the age-old battle between the living and the dead.
With its compelling characters, evocative artwork, and rich thematic depth, this five-issue comic series will leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a journey into the unknown—because once you enter the world of “The Tormented,” there’s no turning back.
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