Kingdom Come, by Alex Ross and Mark Waid, is sure to make any comic fan’s list of the top ten comic stories ever told. Some might even say that the story is legendary, which led to director Remsy Atassi and producer and Ross’s art dealer and longtime friend Sal Abbinanti to propose the idea of a documentary on the comic to Ross and Waid.
The result is the new documentary film The Legend of Kingdom Come (currently available to back on Kickstarter), which delves into all aspects of the titanic tale through interviews with the creators and over 30 collaborators and industry icons.
We spoke to the director about his subject matter and the legacy of Kingdom Come in this exclusive interview.
What was the genesis of The Legend of Kingdom Come documentary?
Remsy Atassi: I started working with Alex in 2016 developing his content and building his YouTube channel. Right away I saw there was potential for a doc featuring Alex. Originally, I was thinking we would do a doc on his career, but it was clear that he was most excited to talk about Kingdom Come and it evolved from there.
What were Alex and Mark’s initial reactions to the idea of a documentary?
Atassi: We had to win over Alex a bit, because he stays very busy painting and is very private. But he was excited to dive back into Kingdom Come, which is a personal story for him. Mark was also one of our first asks and he generously agreed to give an interview very early on.
You have over 30 interviews in the documentary. How did you create your list and do either of you have a favorite comment offered by one of the participants?
Atassi: Sal knows everybody in the business so he was our guiding light. But we had some happy accidents when we posted up for interviews at San Diego Comic Con. For sure my favorite interviews are with the fans and comic store owners. They are such an eclectic bunch who really represent the hobby in a cool way.
The documentary also traces the lineage of comic art and storytelling that has shaped modern pop culture. Is this almost like two documentaries in one?
Atassi: To me, the story of Kingdom Come is part of the history of comics. It builds on the history of the medium with these iconic characters, and has left an indelible impression. That’s the story we tell.
Can you recall your first experiences reading Kingdom Come?
Atassi: I came to comics as a filmmaker – an outsider – so the past decade has been my education from Alex & Sal. I read KC in that context, and I was blown away. The art is like nothing you’ve ever seen and the story is in so many ways an epic commentary on the medium. It’s up there with the best comics can deliver.
What is the legacy of the series after so many years and what can new creators learn from it?
Atassi: This book is a legend. Alex & Mark went all in bringing their histories and talents to creating this book. For anyone making art this is the only way.
The Legend of Kingdom Come is available to back until October 25 on Kickstarter.
