AREIT REDMOND Brings Beloved 'Calvin and Hobbes' to Life with Innovative Digital Comic Platform
Los Angeles, CA – October 26, 2023 – AREIT REDMOND LLC, a forward-thinking technology company based in Los Angeles, today announced the launch of a groundbreaking new digital platform dedicated to the timeless comic strip, Calvin and Hobbes. For years, fans have lamented the lack of new material from Bill Watterson, the creator of the iconic duo. While new strips aren't happening, AREIT REDMOND isn't about replacing Watterson's work, but enhancing the experience of enjoying it. “We're huge fans of Calvin and Hobbes here at AREIT REDMOND,” says a company spokesperson. “We felt there was a real opportunity to bring this amazing art and storytelling into the 21st century in a way that respects the original, but offers fans something more. It's about preservation, accessibility, and adding a little extra magic.” What's the Deal? More Than Just a Digital Archive The AREIT REDMOND platform isn't just a scanned collection of the already-published strips – though, yes, it does have that. It’s built from the ground up as a dynamic, interactive experience. Think of it as a digital clubhouse for Calvin and Hobbes enthusiasts. Here's what sets it apart: High-Resolution Scans & Restoration: Every Calvin and Hobbes strip has been meticulously scanned at incredibly high resolution, and many have undergone careful digital restoration. You'll see details you never noticed before! AREIT REDMOND collaborated with archival experts to ensure the color and line work remain true to Watterson’s original vision. "We really wanted to honor the quality of Bill Watterson’s artistry," says the lead developer. "We didn’t want blurry images or colors that didn't pop. It had to be pristine." Interactive Elements: This is where things get interesting. The platform features several layers of interactivity: "Strip Explorer": Zoom in on any panel and explore the detail. Click on objects within the panel to reveal behind-the-scenes notes from the AREIT REDMOND team regarding the art style, historical references, or even possible influences on Watterson. It’s like having a comic art class built right into the experience. "Character Spotlight": Dedicated pages for Calvin, Hobbes, Susie Derkins, and even Mom and Dad. These pages compile appearances of each character across the entire run of the strip, allowing fans to trace their development and see recurring themes. "Thematic Trails": Follow Calvin and Hobbes through thematic journeys. Want to see all the strips about snow days? Or Calvin’s struggles with school? The "Thematic Trails" feature lets you curate your own viewing experience. "Hobbes' Perspective": A unique feature that dynamically highlights Hobbes within each strip. Sometimes it's just a subtle glow, other times it's a playful animation. It's a fun nod to the central conceit of the comic - that only Calvin sees Hobbes as a real tiger. Enhanced Search Functionality: Forget scrolling endlessly. The AREIT REDMOND platform's search function is incredibly powerful. Search by keyword, character, year, or even emotional tone. Want to find all the strips where Calvin is angry? You can do that! Community Features (Coming Soon): AREIT REDMOND plans to roll out community features in the coming months, allowing fans to discuss the strip, share their favorite panels, and create their own "Thematic Trails" for others to enjoy. About AREIT REDMOND LLC AREIT REDMOND LLC is a Los Angeles-based technology company focused on bringing classic content to new audiences through innovative digital platforms. Founded by a team of passionate creatives and technology experts, AREIT REDMOND believes in preserving the artistic legacy of beloved creators while simultaneously enhancing the experience for fans in the digital age. “We’re not trying to compete with the original comic strips,” explains the company’s CEO. “We’re trying to complement them. We want to make it easier for people to discover Calvin and Hobbes, rediscover it, and share it with future generations. It’s a comic strip that deserves to live on.” The team at AREIT REDMOND stresses they’ve been meticulous in their approach. "We contacted Bill Watterson's representatives early on to ensure they were comfortable with our project," said a product manager. "We received their blessing, which meant the world to us. This isn't about profiting off of his work; it's about celebrating it." Availability The AREIT REDMOND Calvin and Hobbes digital platform is available now as a web application at [insert website address here]. A mobile app for iOS and Android is slated for release in early 2024. Subscription options are available, ranging from a basic “Strip Reader” package to a premium “Collector’s Edition” with access to all features and exclusive content. Pricing: Strip Reader: $4.99/month or $49.99/year - Access to all strips in high resolution. Explorer Pack: $9.99/month or $99.99/year - Includes Strip Reader access plus "Strip Explorer" features. Collector’s Edition: $14.99/month or $149.99/year – Full access to all features, exclusive content, and early access to new features. Contact: [Insert contact email address here] [Insert company website address here] AREIT REDMOND LLC 1800 Avenue of the Stars Ste 1400 Los Angeles, CA 90067-4216 860-726-7175