Oni Press and Magnetic Press Kickstarter campaign for Joël Dos Reis Viegas’ Urbance is described by Magnetic Press’ Director of Publishing Mike Kennedy as “a bio-punk Romeo & Juliet in the neon-lit style of Aeon Flux in a Jet Set Radio future city”.
Urbance (now available to back on Kickstarter) was originally developed by Dos Reis Viegas at Steambot Studios as a succesful animated project, and then decided to expand the world of Neopolis in an new medium.
We spoke to Dos Reis Viegas about the origins of Urbance and how a myriad of influences combined to complete his vision of the story in this exclusive interview.
How did your graphic novel series spin out of your animated short?
Joël Dos Reis Viegas: After producing the animated pilot, it became clear that Steambot and the producers each had different visions for what Urbance should become. Rather than compromise the heart of the project, I chose to take Urbance back into my own hands. It was a meaningful turning point for me — professionally and personally — and it gave me the space to reconnect with my universe and rebuild it the way it deserved. For the graphic novel, I rewrote everything from the ground up. The story is now stronger, clearer, and more personal than ever.
How has your work as an animator influenced your comic art?
Viegas: It has been incredibly helpful for the comic, especially when playing with perspective and dynamic posing. But I also had to learn how to synthesize a full action sequence on a single page to go straight to the point. I think I’ve managed to bring the same raw energy and dynamism of my animation into the comics.
How would you describe your style for those unfamiliar with it and where do you draw your influences from?
Viegas: It’s always tricky to describe your own work objectively, but I’d say Urbance is an urban‑cyberpunk graphic novel infused with street‑art energy. I’m a huge fan of Animation and that influence naturally comes through in my perspectives, staging, and character designs, I think.
You have worked on a number of video game and animated projects. Was there one in particular that influenced you the most for Urbance?
Viegas: Ah, interesting question — and I’d actually say it’s the opposite. Urbance ended up inspiring my work on projects like Roller Champions, and even some of what I did for Sony Animation and Nickelodeon. But the project that truly sparked Urbance in the first place was Thief. I know, it may sound strange, but back in 2008 I was working at Eidos Montréal on the fourth installment of the series for over four years. The game had a very dark tone, and in my spare time I needed to create something more vibrant and colorful to balance it out. That’s when Urbance was born.
How prevalent is the influence of anime, manga, and comics in youth and urban culture today?
Viegas: I think they’re more present and influential than ever. Even though the younger generation read less — that’s just a fact — they’re incredibly passionate about their favorite series. When you look at the huge impact manga has on teenagers, or even an anime like K‑pop Demon Hunters, we’re way past simple entertainment at this point. It’s become Culture. My 8‑year‑old son learns about emotions and human relationships through what he watches (we’ve listened to Inside Out together at least 20 times), which says a lot. In the end, what really matters is the message these works carry.
You are taking Urbance to Kickstarter. What are you looking forward to most about the platform and the various tiers?
Viegas: I’m really excited that Magnetic Press is about to launch the campaign — they have a ton of experience in this space. Kickstarter holds a special place in my heart because it’s where the Urbance community was born for the very first time. I’m not expecting anything specific; I’m simply looking forward to introducing my series to English‑speaking readers around the world and giving them a taste of the universe I’ve created. We went all‑in on the tiers, and I think a lot of people are going to be surprised!
Upcoming work?
Viegas: Nothing planned for now — after working nonstop on the series for eight years, I just want to enjoy some time with my wife and my son. But my head is full of ideas, so we’ll see what the future has in store!
Urbance is available to back on Kickstarter until Friday, June 5.
