Lying is Lethal in New Graphic Novel The A.R.C. First Look (And No One Is Safe) (Exclusive)

by

Biological disasters are arguably the most frightening and captivating scenarios in science fiction. Stories about outbreaks, pandemics, and even zombie apocalypses resonate deeply, perhaps because they feel so realistic. We recently experienced a real-life pandemic, making these stories even more unsettling. While many of these tales focus on unknown origins – like contaminated food or water – a new graphic novel explores a more disturbing question: what happens when deliberate lies can kill?

This July, look out for The A.R.C., a new graphic novel that blends science fiction and satire. Created by Tim Disney and written with JC Lacek, with artwork by Vincent Jolas Dubourg, the story begins at a conference where powerful leaders attempt to solve climate change. However, things take a dangerous turn when they’re infected with a deadly, fast-spreading virus called Amazonian Recombinant Cytoneuropathy – or A.R.C. – which is triggered by dishonesty. As the virus causes chaos, a diverse group of passengers aboard an eco-friendly cruise ship must find a way to survive the outbreak and the obstacles it presents.

ComicBook is giving fans a first look at a new graphic novel with a fresh take on the end of the world. They also spoke with Disney about the project, which cleverly incorporates references to current events and modern culture into its story.

The A.R.C. Tackles Real-Life Challenges While Trying to Hang Onto a Sense of Humor, Dignity


It’s becoming surprisingly challenging to create imaginative science fiction stories when real-world events – like the rise of unchecked technology and the emergence of incredibly powerful people – are starting to resemble the plots of comic books.

It’s incredibly draining to constantly encounter dishonesty, from blatant lies told by public figures to the small deceptions in everyday advertising – like claiming dish soap is ‘new and improved’ when it’s not. This constant barrage of insincerity is exhausting, and it’s easy to feel defeated. Perhaps The A.R.C. represents a last-ditch effort to maintain our integrity and resist being completely overwhelmed by all the deception.


We’re curious about the choice to feature real people in your work. Are there any individuals you’d especially like to acknowledge? Also, are you worried about how those people might react to their portrayal? Finally, have any new figures become relevant or deserving of inclusion since you first started writing?

We enjoy connecting with all kinds of people, and we see it as our role as creators to do so. We try to be just as honest and self-aware in our writing as we expect our readers to be. We all have weaknesses and fears, and we’re all just trying our best – that’s a key message of the book. Ultimately, it feels important to keep a sense of humor, especially when it comes to ourselves.


Can we expect to see this adapted and would you want it to be?

I first had the idea for this project a few years ago, around the time the pandemic was starting to ease up—or maybe it hasn’t ended yet! I shared it with my friend Sanjay Sharma, thinking it would make a good movie. Sanjay suggested turning it into a graphic novel instead, and he also connected me with my co-writer, JC Lacek. I really appreciate his help with that.

It all began as a concept for a film, but it’s evolved over time into a graphic novel, which I’m really enjoying because it allows for a more gradual development process. As for whether it will continue, maybe – I’m hoping it will! There are lots of supporting characters and potential storylines to explore, and it could take many different directions. I’m especially interested in the stories of Frederik “Fred” Frederiksen, the brilliant ship designer, and his rival, Peter “Pete” Petersen. I’d love to see their characters further developed.


In a world dominated by big corporations and where some believe AI is leading to unoriginal, mass-produced content, can bold, unconventional art – the kind that challenges the status quo – actually make a lasting impact? Will it be able to cut through the noise long-term?

This book is different because it was created entirely by humans – and while we’re not the only ones doing things this way now, that’s becoming increasingly rare. I hope that in a world filled with virtual and artificial creations, things made by real people will become more appreciated. For decades, those who could think like computers – engineers, programmers, and tech experts – were highly valued. But we’re now seeing a shift, with recent layoffs in the tech industry and falling stock prices. It’s possible that those with broader skills – people who are simply good at connecting with others and navigating the world – will become the most valuable asset, both culturally and economically. Of course, I might be saying this to justify my own work! I also want to acknowledge the insightful work of economist and writer Noah Smith, who has valuable perspectives on this topic.

AI is here to stay and is already causing significant changes. We’re seeing the very start of a major transformation in how our economy, jobs, schools, and even how we understand knowledge will function. I’m not worried about the technology itself – I believe it will be as impactful as its creators claim. However, I’m very doubtful about their optimistic predictions regarding its development, its effects on society, and their ability to manage it. I’d be more reassured if I felt they were prioritizing our well-being as they move forward with this powerful, but uncertain, technology.

We felt compelled to write this book because it seems like we’re entering the climactic final scene of a dramatic story, and we’re not simply observing from the outside – we’re actively involved.

You can now pre-order the A.R.C. from GUNGIR! It will officially be released on July 21st. For more details, check here.

https://comicbook.com/comics/list/7-powerful-dc-heroes-who-stand-no-chance-against-wolverine/embed/#

Read More

2026-02-12 00:44