Jim Shooter’s Overlooked Cult Classic

Jim Shooter’s Forgotten Classic Finally Sees Daylight

Jim Shooter’s long-lost project, Schism: Be Careful What You Dream, is making its long-awaited debut. Funded through Kickstarter, this comic gem was originally slated for release under Shooter’s now-defunct Defiant Comics back in 1994.

The Kickstarter Revival

Now, more than three decades later, the project is live on Kickstarter until March 2. With over $11,600 raised, it’s gaining momentum towards a $61,200 goal. This revival will feature Shooter’s initial plot, backed by his frequent collaborator, Jay Jackson. It boasts over 160 rediscovered, restored, and remastered pages. Enjoy works from artists like Charlie Adlard, David Lapham, JG Jones, and Dave Taylor.

In 1994, Schism was planned as a four-issue miniseries. It would weave an intriguing tale across the interconnected universe of Defiant Comics. Inspired by Shooter’s work on Marvel’s Secret Wars and Valiant’s Unity, it aimed to offer a tapestry of intertwined storylines. The saga began with a few issues—Dogs of War No. 5 and Warriors of Plasm #13. However, publication ceased when Defiant Comics shuttered.

An Enthusiastic Rediscovery

The rebirth of Schism owes thanks to Jay Weaver, host of the Midnight, On Earth Podcast. Alongside Arizona Defiant Comics Museum curator Jim Hollister, and others, they unearthed this forgotten relic. Their combined effort, including the likes of Scott Braden and J.C. Vaughn, breathes life into Shooter’s unfinished masterpiece.

Jim Shooter’s Defiant Comics: A Short-Lived Dream

Back in 1993, former Marvel and Valiant leader Jim Shooter founded Defiant Comics. Supported by The River Group, he ventured into new creative territories, creating with a dream team of ex-Valiant talent. They initially launched with a unique concept—a comic bound in a trading card album, starting with Plasm issue #0.

However, Shooter faced legal battles. Marvel Comics claimed trademark infringement over Plasm, resulting in a grueling lawsuit. The legal storm forced Defiant to rename the title to Warriors of Plasm. Unfortunately, despite winning the battle, legal fees drained the company’s resources. Consequently, they ceased publication by summer 1995.

A New Chapter Begins

Now, the long-overdue Schism is poised for a new beginning. Its Kickstarter campaign promises an exciting tribute to Shooter’s vision. Schism: Be Careful What You Dream is ready to captivate a waiting audience, showcasing the rich legacy of classic comic creativity.

Catch the Revival

It’s time to rediscover Jim Shooter’s vision. Visit the Kickstarter page and support this iconic resurrection before it’s too late.