By Marc Strom
Fans will get a chance to properly meet Marvel's newest star, Hitman Monkey, in a special two-part Marvel Digital Comics Exclusive beginning this December, courtesy of writer Daniel Way and artist Dalibor Talijic, all wrapped in a gorgeous Frank Cho cover. This will mark the historic first time a character has debuted through Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited.
"Hitman Monkey is a soulful, tortured, jazz-loving 30-pound engine of destruction," explains Executive Editor Axel Alonso. "Think Chow Yun Fat from 'The Killer' as a monkey. To be specific, [a Japanese Macaque] monkey."
The character's origin will incorporate a number of different elements, ranging from the comedic to the dramatic.
"Let's be clear: HITMAN MONKEY is the harrowing tale of a Macaque monkey from the mountains of Japan who, though fate and circumstance, is transformed into the world's deadliest assassin," Alonso continues. "I fail to see what could be funny about-oh. I see your point."
When asked how he feels Hitman Monkey's appearance in a Marvel Digital Comics Exclusive will help build anticipation for the character's appearance in February's DEADPOOL #20, Alonso sees at least one simple reason:
"The fact that our protagonist is a monkey won't hurt."
Going back to the character's genesis, Alonso re-enacts a conversation he had with writer/creator Daniel Way on Hitman Monkey's design.
"Daniel Way [said] 'I'm thinking Spider-Monkey,' [and I responded] 'In a sharply-tailored black suit?' [He said] 'Yep.' Frank Cho added the gloves and colorist Jason Keith added the red tie. It's a wrap."
Once Hitman Monkey does make his way into the pages of the Merc With a Mouth's own book, Alonso promises that "Deadpool and Spider-Man will never know what hit 'em. Hitman Monkey is a skilled martial artist and crack shot, plus he's got mad hops. He is really good at what he does-one might even venture to say, he's the best there is at what he-Wait."
Looking towards the future, Alonso also expects big things from Hitman Monkey in the coming year.
"Headline from San Diego Comic-Con 2010: Hitman Monkey sweeps Eisner Awards!!!"
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