Let me start by saying that the biggest problem with Netflix’s newest series based on the popular Konami video games is simply that it’s too short. Four episodes, each running just over twenty minutes is more like an appetizer than a full meal–especially for the binge-watching viewership that Netflix helped to create. It’s essentially a single feature film that ends just when the story is about to get started (likely because there are another eight episodes yet to be released). But perhaps that’s a strong point of the show as well, because like a vampire whose finally feasting on blood after a hundred years (sorry, I had to), it leaves you wanting so much more. Read more… ›

Back in February, a number of websites began publishing information about a new Netflix series based on the Castlevania franchise. Then, just yesterday, the first trailer was released. It’s no secret that the Castlevania series has been a major influence on my work. It’s the first video game series that I felt was “mine”, in that I discovered it for myself; I started with the very first Castlevania in 1986–though it probably wasn’t until 1987 or 88 that I played it (games had a longer shelf-life back then)–and it featured all of the things I loved best: horror elements, a massive castle, spooky music (I love that word) and Dracula! So with all of that, you’d think I’d be excited to know a screen adaptation of the games is finally happening. Read more… ›

As I wrote last week, it’s not often I have a show or public appearance between the months of December and March (though, perhaps November and March would be nearer the mark). There doesn’t seem to be much offered in the way of events during the cold months, and so I often work through the Winter in quiet hibernation. However, a few weeks ago I was contacted by artist Teresa DeFabrizio from the Art Garage in Montclair, New Jersey about exhibiting in their latest gallery show, Fan-Tastic. Having previously enjoyed the experience of participating in their Pet-icular Poses show in June of this year, I was quick to say yes, despite my very busy schedule of late. The show runs all month long, and this past Friday was the opening reception for the show. Read more… ›

The Fantasy Illustration section of jmdesantis.com saw a big update this week with new artwork and a slight format change. I had planned to post new art in most of the illustration sections after the Bronx Heroes Comic Convention (May 4th & 5th), but I was in need of something to post this week since the Boston Comic Con was cancelled this weekend past. (I’m still hoping they will reschedule, and I’m relieved the last suspect in the Boston Marathon tragedy was finally apprehended.) That said, there’s still more new artwork coming. Read more… ›