PREVIEW : Vandroid #1 - The Revival of an 80s Epic. Sort of

In the 1980s a fictional film known as Vandroid was created. It was part science fiction and a whole lot of action, but sadly was lost in a fire before it was released is no more. That is until now, with writers Tommy Lee Edwards and Noah Smith – along with artist Dan McDaid and colorist Melissa Edwards – resurrect this fictional “lost epic” though Dark Horse Comics.

Vandroid follows Chuck Carducci, a master mechanic who was made famous for his designs as part of the mid-70’s custom vanning craze. With fame came drugs and money and all things associated. Flash forward to 1984 and vanning has died and Chuck is depressed and broke. Then comes along an old roommate of his who manipulates him into working on a project. What is this project? An artificial intelligence known only as Vandroid. This AI has been modelled in many ways off Chuck in his glory days. In an attempt to find it’s place in the world, this powerful AI will go up against a militarized corporation, leaving dead bodies in its path.

This five issue mini series is inspired by action and exploitation movies of its era. An era of mulleted bulleted heroes, big explosions and denim vests – something that Vandroid will deliver in spades. So if you were a big fan of 80’s action movies then Vandroid will be right up your alley.

Vandroid movie poster by Manuel Sanjulian

Vandroid is not just a comic book, but a multimedia experience. The series pairs itself with a variety of movie posters (as seen in this preview), a trailer and even a soundtrack – all with a feel as if you have been transported back to 1984. Altogether, they help build the brand of Vandroid and give you an idea of the narrative. Looking at these you could be fooled into thinking Vandroid was a real movie!

Vandroid #1 (of 5) explodes into all good comic book stores and digitally from February 26th.

Take a look at the cover by Melissa Edwards, a five page preview as well as another movie poster below.