Step One : The Idea

Before any writing or drawing can take place, there has to be an idea. Tiki Joe, as an idea, was first born after watching the original Oceans 11 with Frank Sinatra playing Danny Ocean. WWII veterans get together and use their military training to rob Las Vegas. Sound familar? I just put a spin on it. instead of our heroes commiting a crime, they try to prevent one.

Oceans 11 is hardly the singular source of inspiration. Tiki Joe has it's roots firmly spread throughout the era that gave us that film. That wonderful time of the late 50's and the early 60's when the exotic music of Martin Denny was the rage, James Bond was played by Sean Connery, The definition of cool was five guys in suits called the rat pack and tiki bars could be found in every sizable city in the country.