Have you heard of Mark Millar's 'Nemesis?'

Next month, if you haven't lost the shack on that Superbowl wager (sorry Colts fans!), you may want to rearrange your pull list and add Mark Millar and Steve McNiven's "Nemesis."

From what I understand the main character is the only costumed presence in a world with no superheroes -- and he's the villain.  I hear this cat is supposed to have Batman's skills and the Joker's twisted sensibilities.  Comic Book Resources has some black and white preview art from the first issue sans dialogue.

Millar could put on a clinic for buzz-building when it comes to getting the word out on a new book.  Sure, it's his Marvel work and he's MARK MILLAR so it gets all the spotlight it needs, but his other creator-owned stuff draws a significant crowd too ("Kick-Ass" anyone?).  This kind of buildup wouldn't work as well for a total unknown, but there are lessons to be learned.

When you think an idea for a super hero (or villain) comic has been pushed to the limit, Millar finds a way to push it a little bit more.  Love it or hate it, I guess that's how his stuff ends up being so unforgetable.  I may take the images from that final battle in his and McNiven's "Old Man Logan" Wolverine run with me to the great hereafter.

In the case of "Nemesis" I couldn't imagine Marvel dropping crazy-violent preview art out there for the comics media to gobble up about ten years ago but today you have to find a way to stand out. Check out the "Joker bloody smile" below.  Was that Millar's idea too?  My man is not shy about self-promotion.

Anyway, I'm digging McNiven's art in the preview and I like his work when he takes his time... as long as the book is on time, that is.

This post is primarily a reminder for myself.  I don't know how great "Nemesis" will be, but I hate missing the chance at a first issue to at least try it out.

"Nemesis" from Marvel Comics is scheduled for release March 3, 2010.