Sunday, September 20, 2009
Quick, A+E, Movies, Q&A
Robert Venditti: The Quick Q&A
Atlanta resident Robert Venditti is the writer of “Surrogates,” a thriller published by Marietta-based comic book company Top Shelf Productions.
Courtesy of Top Shelf Productions
“Surrogates”In the near future, humans interact via perfect robot doubles, called surrogates, in a world free from crime and fear—until a web of murder and conspiracy threatens to shake this Utopia to its foundations. The film version of “Surrogates,” starring Bruce Willis, opens on Sept. 25.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, can you describe what a surrogate is?
A surrogate is basically like an android. It stands in for you; it moves around, and you experience everything. It’s sort of living life for you, in your place.
Why did you decide to set “Surrogates” in Atlanta?
Because I live in Atlanta. I think it’s a very culturally complex place. I wanted to bring together race, gender and age, and there’s a lot of identity here.
Since the original mini-series was published, do you think the world has become more like the world of the books?
Well, maybe not since it was published, but since 2002. You can control robots with your mind and live through Second Life. People are able to buy and sell things with real money through technology like this.
You’ve written a “Surrogates” prequel, “Flesh and Bones.” Any plans to further explore this world?
Yes. I have other projects I’m working on right now besides “Surrogates,” but it’s a world I plan to go back to explore more.
Tell us about the experience of writing a comic book series that becomes a Bruce Willis movie.
It’s definitely not what I expected to happen. It’s my first book. I was hoping to find someone to publish it, to be a resume piece. I never thought this would ever happen. This is way beyond my expectations. I’m really still trying to get a career off the ground, and I hope the movie helps.—Meghan Kotowski