GVN Talking Comics Interview: Writer Corinna Bechko for Oni Press EC’s ‘Epitaphs from the Abyss’

EC Comics

In 1949, EC Comics, also known as Entertaining Comics, began a new series of publications under the direction of Bill Gaines, who succeeded his late father Max. This series included horror-themed titles such as Tales from the Crypt, The Vault of Horror, and The Haunt of Fear. These publications took delight in a macabre exuberance, often concluding with grimly ironic twists for the protagonists of the stories. The covers of these titles often followed suit and despite the grim stories being told, the EC Horror line was quite popular with readers. Especially YOUNG readers. This proved to be a problem for parents and those critics who worried about the possible effect such stories had on young minds.

The End of EC’s Horror Line

The scrutiny of comic books, especially those by Dr. Fredric Wertham, escalated following the release of his book “Seduction of the Innocent” in 1954. This publication, coupled with a highly publicized Congressional hearing on juvenile delinquency, portrayed comic books, and specifically the EC line, in a very negative light. The situation led to publishers opting for self-censorship through the formation of the Comics Code Authority. However, Gaines chose not to participate in the Association, and on September 14, 1954, EC discontinued its horror line of comics.

EC Lives Again

In February 2024, Oni Press announced the revival of the EC brand, licensed by the Gaines family, beginning with the horror series ‘Epitaphs from the Abyss.’ This series, as well as future ones, will showcase the talents of a diverse group of writers and artists, perpetuating the legacy of the original series famed for its notable creators who contributed to the EC Horror line. Such names include Johnny Craig, Reed Crandall, Jack Davis, Will Elder, George Evans, Frank Frazetta, Graham Ingels, Jack Kamen, Bernard Krigstein, Joe Orlando, John Severin, Al Williamson, Basil Wolverton, and Wally Wood.

For ‘Epitaphs from the Abyss,’ we had the pleasure of talking to three of the many talented creators that will be involved in this exciting new revival. We spoke to writer J Holtham on yesterday’s interview. For today, we will be speaking to talented writer Corinna Bechko (Avatar: Adapt or Die, Green Lantern: Earth One.)

Corinna Bechko – Beginnings

GVN: Thank you so much for a little bit of your time Corinna. Before we get into the exciting return of EC, let’s touch on a bit of your background. When did you take an interest in writing and whose work inspired you to pursue that career?

CSB: That’s a big question! I’ve been a writer (and reader) as long as I can remember but my first published book was Heathentown in 2009. It’s a horror story, told in black and white with artist Gabriel Hardman, about an evil lurking in the Florida swamps. Probably my favorite writer is Shirley Jackson, but I am also heavily influenced by Harvey Pekar and James Tiptree, Jr. Reading Paul Bowels (probably too early) was the first time I remember really wanting to dabble in the sort of magic that can result from crafting a good story.

Many Publishers

GVN: You have worked for many great publishers including DC, Marvel, Dark Horse, BOOM! and Sideshow. Working with such iconic names in the industry, what did you take away from working with each of them that still resonates with you in your career?

CSB: The thing I love about writing is that it’s always new. You’re never done learning, especially when you are immersed in a collaborative field like comics. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with a lot of amazing editors and artists, but these EC stories have really cranked the dial on that score. I’ve wanted to work with Jonathan Case for years and now that dream has come true! My editor, Sierra Hahn, has had invaluable insights too.

The EC Comics Connection

GVN: Your latest project is for the rebirth of EC Comics and their horror line, published by Oni Press. How did you get connected to this project and were you at all intimidated by the prospect? Before the Comics Code shut them down, EC and Tales from the Crypt, Vault of Horror, and Haunt of Fear (among others) were the poster children for pushing the envelope for horror.

CSB: I had worked with my editor, Sierra, on my latest OGN The Space Between when she was at BOOM! a while back. When she contacted me about the EC rebirth, I was thrilled! It was a little intimidating (I’m a big fan of the originals) but I also couldn’t wait to dive in. Horror is my favorite genre so I’m very honored to be part of this project.

Collaborating with Other Creators

GVN: You are teaming up with talented writers Chris Condon and Jay Stephens for your story in Issue 3 along with art by Charlie Adlar, Leomacs & Jonathan Case. Could you give our readers a hint about what the story will be about?

CSB: My entry is called “Blood Oath” and it’s a wicked little tale about a woman with a secret who believes she’s very clever. We get to watch as she’s trapped on a yacht with people who have always paid to have others be clever for them. Of course, the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Upcoming Projects

GVN: Thanks again for your time and attention, Corinna. Before I let you go, please remind our readers about this great project and any other ones you have upcoming.

CSB: Thank you for the chance to chat! I’m really excited about the new EC lineup. I can’t wait to read all the other stories and think readers will be enthralled. In addition, my sci fi epic The Space Between, with artist Danny Luckert, is hitting bookstores and comic shops this month with distribution by Simon and Shuster. It’s set aboard a generation ship where each chapter tells the story of a different romance and rebellion as the ship moves through both space and time.

Issue one of Oni Press’s EC Epitaphs from the Abyss comes out July 24th. Once again, for those in the LA area, don’t forget today’s launch party for the revival of EC’s Horror line at Revenge of Comics and Pinball, Los Angeles, California (3420 Eagle Rock BVLD, Glassel Park).