NINJAS VS. ZOMBIES tells the tale of seven friends in their late 20's and early 30's struggling with life issues, only to find themselves in terrifying danger when a long-dead loved one is magically resurrected and begins devouring the souls of the living. Complicating matters, three of the friends have mysteriously been granted the power of the ninja, and now must lead the fight against an evil force that they cannot hope to vanquish. If they fail, the undead will overrun their little town, and maybe the world.

We caught up with writer, Tom Chillemi, to talk about Ninjas vs. Zombies.

Horror News Network: Does this comic series pick up where the movie left off?

Tom Chillemi: Yes, the first story arc (issues 1-4) of Ninjas vs show the events of the first movie, but from four different perspectives; those of the different main characters. It also includes additional insights and details not found in the movie.

With issue 5, we begin a new story arc with Ninjas vs Werewolves, which chronicles the events that take place between the movies of Ninjas vs Zombies and Ninjas vs Vampires.

Horror News Network: Can you catch us up with the current storyline?

Tom Chillemi: Seven friends found themselves in terrifying danger when Randall magically resurrected his dead brother Eric who began devouring souls, amassing a zombie horde. Making matters worse, Randall tried to undo the mess by granting the power of the ninja to his three best friends: Kyle, Cole and Fitz. Eric was vanquished but at a great cost. Randall, Kara and Fitz lost their lives. Lily was transformed.

Horror News Network: Can you tell us about the main characters in this series?

Tom Chillemi: Kyle: Foul-mouthed gun-wielding ninja. He fends off the forces of darkness with style.

Cole: The reluctant leader of the ninjas. He struggles to stay strong for his love Lily and friends.

Lily: Changed by her ex’s magic, she must learn to cope with the monster she is becoming while not alienating those she loves.

Ann: Helpless to save her husband, Fitz, she relentlessly peruses the mystic arts. She has vowed to never be powerless again.

Horror News Network: What can we expect from this title in terms of blood and guts?

Tom Chillemi: Ninjas vs contain all the classic horror elements, such as decapitations, headshots and explosions, but the story drives the violence, we don’t let the violence drive the story.

Horror News Network: How often is this title released?

Tom Chillemi: Fans can expect to see a new issue of Ninjas vs on the shelves of their local comic shop every six weeks.

Horror News Network: Who is the rest of the creative team involved in this title?

Tom Chillemi: We have a great team working on Ninjas vs. The book is written by Tom Chillemi with assistance from Justin Timpane. Pencils are done by Jaime Martinez. Inks are handled by Steven Addlesee and Rich Seetoo. The book is colored by Chuck Michael Obach. Lettering and additional art direction is overseen by Bruce Dwayne.

Horror News Network: Where can our readers find out more about Ninjas vs. Zombies?

Tom Chillemi: Readers can find out more about the Ninjas vs comic series on our website at www.azure-press.com and on our Facebook page. More information about the movies, including the upcoming Ninjas vs Monsters can be found at www.ninjaswin.com

Horror News Network: In closing, what would you like to say to our readers about Ninjas vs. Zombies?

Tom Chillemi: I think the worst thing you can do is read the comic book of the movie you already saw. So I wanted to tell the story of the movie, but I wanted to tell it from the different perspectives of the characters. I can get in the character’s heads, and I can tell you what the characters are thinking. In a comic, you can do anything. If you want to put a camera in the middle of someone’s head as it’s exploding, you can. If you can think of something that fits in the Ninjas vs universe, it’ll probably find its way into the comic. I’m going to take them around the world, and it’s just going to be fun.

Horror News Network: Thanks for your time, Tom! Good luck on Ninjas vs. Zombies. Have a comment? Post it here.