Angry Web

Marvel previewed their upcoming June comic series, “Heralds”, on G4 this week which tells the tale of the hotties of Marvel and even a new character which has yet to be discussed much. Here is a clip from the show:

Huge news here – Disney has acquired Marvel Entertainment for a whopping $4 billion!  The agreement not only gives the studio the rights to over Marvel’s 5,000+ characters, but control over its licensing, publishing, and film production capabilities.  This will be one of the largest acquisitions in Disney’s history following its 2006 acquisition of Pixar for $7.4 billion.

Well, we can surely say that this will definitely bring a massive shockwave to the entertainment industry in the coming years ahead.  While it’s been announced that the deals for movies on characters from Marvel (Spiderman, X-Men, Iron Man, etc.) will stay in place under the terms set by Marvel, Disney does intend to self-distribute down the line.

Check out the press release:

Building on its strategy of delivering quality branded content to people around the world, The Walt Disney Company has agreed to acquire Marvel Entertainment, Inc. in a stock and cash transaction, the companies announced today.

Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney on August 28, 2009, Marvel shareholders would receive a total of $30 per share in cash plus approximately 0.745 Disney shares for each Marvel share they own. At closing, the amount of cash and stock will be adjusted if necessary so that the total value of the Disney stock issued as merger consideration based on its trading value at that time is not less than 40% of the total merger consideration.

Based on the closing price of Disney stock on Friday, August 28, the transaction value is $50 per Marvel share or approximately $4 billion.

“This transaction combines Marvel’s strong global brand and world-renowned library of characters including Iron Man, Spider-Man, X-Men, Captain America, Fantastic Four and Thor with Disney’s creative skills, unparalleled global portfolio of entertainment properties, and a business structure that maximizes the value of creative properties across multiple platforms and territories,” said Robert A. Iger, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Ike Perlmutter and his team have done an impressive job of nurturing these properties and have created significant value. We are pleased to bring this talent and these great assets to Disney.”

“We believe that adding Marvel to Disney’s unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation,” Iger said.

“Disney is the perfect home for Marvel’s fantastic library of characters given its proven ability to expand content creation and licensing businesses,” said Ike Perlmutter, Marvel’s Chief Executive Officer. “This is an unparalleled opportunity for Marvel to build upon its vibrant brand and character properties by accessing Disney’s tremendous global organization and infrastructure around the world.”

Under the deal, Disney will acquire ownership of Marvel including its more than 5,000 Marvel characters. Mr. Perlmutter will oversee the Marvel properties, and will work directly with Disney’s global lines of business to build and further integrate Marvel’s properties.

The Boards of Directors of Disney and Marvel have each approved the transaction, which is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, certain non-United States merger control regulations, effectiveness of a registration statement with respect to Disney shares issued in the transaction and other customary closing conditions. The agreement will require the approval of Marvel shareholders. Marvel was advised on the transaction by BofA Merrill Lynch.

San Diego Comic-Con International has released the schedule for the Sunday the 25th events. We have posted the full schedule below:

Sunday, July 26
Last changed: Sun, Jul 12, 11:22am

10:00-11:00 Comic-Con in the 2000s— In the first decade of the new millennium, Comic-Con continued to grow by leaps and bounds. The current team talks about Comic-Con in the 2000s. Scheduled to appear (providing running this year’s Comic-Con doesn’t stop them!): Fae Desmond (executive director), Robin Donlan (VP, Events), David Glanzer (director of marketing and public relations), Eddie Ibrahim (director of programming), Martin Jaquish (Masquerade director), Bill Pittman (VP, Operations), and John Rogers (president). Moderated by Gary Sassaman (Director of Print and Publications). Room 2
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Fandom

10:00-11:00 Kids’ Graphic Novels— What’s new and wonderful in the world of comics and graphic novels for kids in 2009? Moderator Robin Brenner, creator and editor-in-chief of NoFlyingNoTights.com, highlights the works of panelists Lewis Trondheim (Tiny Tyrant), Gene Yang (American Born Chinese), Derek Kirk Kim (The Eternal Smile), Eric Wight (Frankie Pickle and The Closet of Doom), Chris Schweizer (Crogan’s Vengeance), Jennifer Holm (Babymouse), and Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Lunch Lady), who all recommend other great titles. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Kids

10:00-11:00 The Annual Jack Kirby Tribute Panel— Fifteen years ago, Jack Kirby left us, but his vision and creations live on to inspire everyone who comes into contact with his work. Mark Evanier (author, Kirby: King of Comics) moderates this annual tribute to the King. Joining Mark this year will be actor Bill Mumy, Kirby inker Mike Royer, editor Steve Saffel, and members of the legendary “5-String Mob,” a group of Comic-Con founding members who Kirby immortalized in the pages of Jimmy Olsen: Barry Alfonso, Roger Freedman, William R. Lund, Scott Shaw!, and Mike Towry. Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Tributes

10:00-11:00 The Spectacular Spider-Man— This Q&A session—with supervising producer Greg Weisman (Gargoyles), supervising producer/supervising director Vic Cook (Hellboy: Blood and Iron), character designer Sean “Cheeks” Galloway (Hellboy animated films), the voice of Spider-Man, Josh Keaton, and the voice of Sha Shan Nguyen Kelly Hu (Scorpion King), and the voice of the Vulture, Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street)—highlights the animated series that hearkens back to the webslinger’s junior year in high school, when a not-so-typical 16-year-old must conceal his secret identity, endure the pressures of teenage life, and combat never-before-seen supervillains. Based on Marvel Entertainment’s popular superhero, The Spectacular Spider-Man is produced by Culver Entertainment, a Sony Pictures Television Company, premiering its second season on Disney XD on June 22. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Kids | Superheroes | Television

10:00-11:00 Phineas & Ferb— Hey kids, whatcha doin’? Going to the Phineas and Ferb panel, that’s what! Creators Dan Povenmire (Family Guy) and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh (Rocko’s Modern Life) plus the voice of Phineas, Vincent Martella (Everybody Hates Chris) and other surprise guests from the show are on hand to tell you everything that’s happening behind the scenes of Disney Channel and Disney XD’s #1 animated series. You’ll get to see sneak peeks of new episodes, new songs, plus prizes, giveaways, and juggling chainsaws (okay, maybe not that last one). Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Kids | Television

10:00-11:00 Nick Jr. Presents: Ni Hao, Kai-Lan and Wonder Pets!— Calling all Nick Jr. fans! This is the screening for you with not one, but two never-before-seen episodes! First, catch a brand new Ni Hao, Kai-Lan as the gang heads to China on an eye-popping, jaw-dropping adventure full of exciting new experiences. Then watch the Wonder Pets! team as they go on a mission to rescue Ming-Ming from a pair of enchanted shoes! Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Kids | Television

10:00-5:00 San Diego International Children’s Film Festival— More than 60 short films from around the world made for children and families—animation, live action and documentary—plus filmmaker appearances highlight this Comic-Con family fave. Click here for the complete complete festival schedule. Room 10
Categories: Animation | Kids | Movies

10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Anson Jew— Anson Jew’s career took off at LucasArts as an animator for nine years on such titles as Full Throttle, Curse of Monkey Island, and Herc’s Adventures. His comic Saturday Nite won a Xeric Grant in 1998. He moved to L.A. to freelance as a concept/storyboard artist for film, TV, games, and toys for properties including Sky Captain, TMNT, Insecticide, and Wolverine & the X-Men. Anson will present the creative process from storyboarding for animation, games, comics and how to support the multimedia process. Room 18
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Games | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 Dr. Who— Actor David Tennant, writer/executive producer Russell T Davies, director Euros Lyn, and executive producer Julie Gardner discuss their creative process and experiences working on BBC America’s Doctor Who—television’s longest-running sci-fi series—with exclusive clips and a Q&A session. Ballroom 20
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

10:00-11:00 Christian Comics Meeting— What are the different ways that Christian creators express their faith through their art? How can “new media” best be used to communicate timeless truths? Discuss the latest trends of the Christian comics movement with moderator Buzz Dixon (Serenity, Goofyfoot Gurl) and panelists Eric Jansen (Foursquare Missions Press), Leo Partible (Behind the Screen: Insiders on Faith, Film & Culture), and others. A short sermon and worship music will precede the panel discussion. Room 24A
Categories: Comic Books

10:00-11:00 Dynamic Anatomy: Manga Style!— Billy Martinez, artist and instructor at Neko Press Art Studios, presents his workshop on dynamic anatomy, Manga style. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced artist, this panel will be informative and fun. Learn from this 16-year pro on how to get your art from your ideas onto the paper. Room 30CDE
Categories: Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Kids

10:00-11:00 BOOM!: The Muppet Show— BOOM! Studios’ bestselling sold-out The Muppet Show Comic Book took the industry by storm this spring. Roger Langridge’s work on the series has been praised by all quarters and was quickly followed up by the bestselling sold-out Muppet Peter Pan, both series setting a new high bar for licensed properties coming to comics. Join a host of surprise guests to see what is next in the world of The Muppets! Room 32AB
Categories: Comic Books | Kids

10:30-11:30 The Art of Adapting Comics to the Screen— Jeff Goldsmith (senior editor for Creative Screenwriting magazine) examines the in-depth process of adapting comic books to the big screen with a stellar panel including David Hayter (Watchmen), Gregory Noveck (Sr. VP of creative affairs, DC Comics), and Josh Olson (A History of Violence). Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 Smallville Screening and Q&A— Comic-Con favorite Smallville returns, as showrunners Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson join cast members Allison Mack (The Ant Bully), Erica Durance (House of the Dead), Cassidy Freeman (Finishing the Game: The Search for a New Bruce Lee), Justin Hartley (Gemini Division) and new series star Callum Blue (The Tudors), who will be playing the villainous Zod, to talk about the year ahead, answer fan questions and give an exclusive sneak peek at clips from season nine. Award-winning comic book writer, Emmy-nominated film and television writer/producer, and Smallville alum Jeph Loeb (Heroes) will moderate the session. From Tollin/Robbins Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Smallville will air Fridays at 8:00 PM this fall on The CW, premiering September 25. Smallville: The Complete Eighth Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray Hi Def August 25. Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Television

10:30-11:30 The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd—LIVE!— Putting a new spin on “old time” radio, the longest running family friendly podcast, The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd, is back to entertain kids of all ages with its unique blend of wackiness, laughter, and surprises! Join the show’s creators Grant Baciocco (Jim Henson Company’s PuppetUp) and Doug Price (The Bodyguard) as they record an episode of Dr. Floyd live at Comic-Con along with very special guests Chuck McCann (Sid & Marty Kroft’s Far Our Space Nuts), Frank Conniff (Mystery Science Theatre 3000), Moira Quirk (Nickelodeon’s GUTS), Alison Mork (Pee Wee’s Playhouse), Michael Rayner (Sesame Street) and, quite possibly, You! Join in and set your imagination to FUN! Room 8
Categories: Humor & Satire | Kids

10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #13: Cold War Comics— Casey Alt (Duke University) investigates how Black Superpower was embodied in the popular cultural icon of the Black Panther and how it interacted with existing Cold War narratives of national technoscientific superpower. Patrick Jagoda (Duke University) examines how visual depictions of networks in American comic books and graphic novels, from Justice League of America to The Invincible Iron Man, channel cultural anxieties that accompany the emerging metaphor of the planetary network. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

11:00-12:00 Emily the Strange— Fiends, strangers, and oddballs, lend Emily your ears! She’ll give them right back after this panel! Fans of underground icon Emily the Strange won’t want to miss this eclectic panel featuring Emily creator Rob Reger, Dark Horse editor Shawna Gore, artist Buzz Parker, and writer Jessica Gruner as they discuss what the future holds for Emily. Get a first look at the new Dark Horse comic series, the new series of Emily novels from HarperCollins, The Art of Emily book, an update on the progress of the Emily movie, and more! All attendees will be entered into a drawing to win a prize package including a complete library of Emily books from Dark Horse and other great stuff from Cosmic Debris! Room 2
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Kids

11:00-12:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers— AKA “Evil Plots to Get Kids Reading.” The 9th annual Secret Origin of Good Readers panel consists of Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University, San Diego), Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City), Bill Galvan (creator/artist The Scrapyard Detectives, artist for Archie Comics), and Jim Valentino (creator/Ppublisher Silverline Books/Image Comics). The panelists will discuss how teachers, librarians, retailers, authors, artists, and publishers can work together to bring comic books into the classroom for use as an innovative and motivating cross-curricular teaching tool and a vehicle for promoting reading and literacy. Through a multimedia presentation, personal remarks, and a question-and-answer session, the speakers will present an overview of the medium and highlight specific ways that comic books and graphic novels can be used to engage a variety of learners. Breakout sessions will follow the main presentation. The 70-page resource book The Secret Origin of Good Readers is available for free download courtesy of XMission.com (link coming soon!). Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 CMX: Bringing Manga to You!— Manga remains one of the hottest areas in literature, and CMX, the manga imprint of DC Comics, is right in the thick of it. Director of manga Asako Suzuki and editor Jim Chadwick discuss the latest releases from one of the most diverse lines on the market today. They are excited to talk about upcoming new series and ongoing series such as Crayon Shinchan, Broken Blade, Fire Investigator Nanase, Ballad of a Shinigami, The Lapis Lazuli Crown, Emma, and much, much more! Room 4
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books

11:00-12:00 Women of Marvel— One of the most talked about panels from last year is back! Forget Storm and She-Hulk, meet the real Ms. Marvels of the comic world! Women from every discipline in the creative process at Marvel will be on hand to talk about what it’s like working as a woman in comics today and how you can join them. Say goodbye to the so-called “Boy’s Club,” these ladies are busting down the four-color ceiling! Guests include New York Times bestselling author Marjorie Liu (Dark Wolverine), Christina Strain (World War Hulk), Colleen Coover (Marvel Adventures), Sonia Oback (X-Force), Emily Warren (Secret Invasion), and more! Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books

11:00-12:00 How-To Session: Charles Vess— Comic-Con special guest Charles Vess is best known for his extensive work with Neil Gaiman on Sandman and Stardust. He is the winner of several Eisners and other awards. Early in his career, Charles worked on superhero comics, such as Spider-Man and Swamp Thing, and has successfully transitioned his career into book publishing. He has published his own works through Green Man Press. He has collaborated with writer Charles de Lint on many books, including Seven Wild Sisters, A Circle of Cats, and Medicine Road. Charles’ presentation will cover the creative process and how it translates to print and film. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 How to Draw Star Wars for Kids— Lucasfilm’s Bonnie Burton (You Can Draw: Star Wars) and artist Katie Cook (The Clone Wars webcomic) help kids draw fun Star Wars characters. Lucas Online senior editor Bonnie Burton edits the drawing tutorials and craft projects, which can be found at Starwars.com/kids. Artist Katie Cook (Katiecandraw.com) has done licensed art for Star Wars, DC, Marvel, Heroes, and Lord of the Rings. She often dreams of being a Wookiee, which explains why she could use a haircut. Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Kids

11:00-12:00 Keenspot— Pioneering webcomics powerhouse Keenspot returns for their 9th annual Comic-Con panel! Panelists scheduled to appear include Bobby Crosby (Last Blood, Marry Me, Dreamless), Remy “Eisu” Mokhtar (Marry Me, No Pink Ponies), Chris Layfield & Pascalle (Zap!), Alex Kolesar & Joseph Kovell (No Need For Bushido), R. C. Monroe (Out There), and R. Smith (Accursed Dragon!). Room 32AB
Categories: Comic Books | Webcomics

11:15-12:30 Cartoon Voices II— It’s yet another gathering of top cartoon voice actors, and co-hosts Mark Evanier and Earl Kress are there to put them through their paces. Come hear Hank Garrett (G.I. Joe), Susan Silo (Biker Mice from Mars), Greg Cipes (Teen Titans), Tom Kane (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) and several more. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Television

11:15-12:15 Nickelodeon Presents: SpongeBob, Fairly OddParents, and The Penguins of Madagascar— You won’t want to miss this screening of your favorite Nickelodeon shows, including a never-before-seen episode of SpongeBob SquarePants, as Plankton tries yet again to bring down the Krusty Krab. Then be the first to watch Timmy and his fairies in a brand new Fairly OddParents episode. But wait, there’s more! You’ll also catch the gang from The Penguins of Madagascar on one of their latest adventures in the Central Park Zoo. Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Kids | Television

11:15-12:15 American Dad— Showrunners Mike Barker and Matt Weitzman and stars Seth MacFarlane, Wendy Schall, and Dee Bradley Baker are back to regale the fans with an insider’s look at how an episode of the hilarious Fox animated comedy is made, from table read to animatic to color. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Comic-Con event. Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

11:30-12:30 Newspaper Editorial Cartoonists— Daryl Cagle, the cartoonist for MSNBC.com, moderates a panel of top editorial cartoonists including Steve Breen of the San Diego Union-Tribune, the most recent Pulitzer Prize winner; Michael Ramirez of Investor’s Business Daily, the previous year’s Pulitzer winner; Jeff Koterba, nationally syndicated cartoonist for the Omaha World-Herald; and Glenn McCoy, who draws the comic strip The Duplex in addition to his nationally syndicated political cartoons; and Rich Moyer (animated editorial cartoons). Editorial cartoonists are seeing their newspaper clients diminish as their audience on the web grows, raising lots of questions for the profession that these cartoonists will address. Room 5AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Webcomics

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on David Petersen— Cartoonist David Petersen talks about his Eisner Award-winning series Mouse Guard, how it came to be, the process that makes it happen, and what the future holds for his mice. An audience Q&A will follow the discussion, moderated by Nick Tapalansky. Room 8
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #14: Changing Identity of the Superhero— Martin Pedler (University of Melbourne) examines the transformation faced by superheroes as they shift from the niche audience of their comic book adventures to broader mainstream acceptance. Kate McClancy (Duke University) argues that Miracleman and Planetary actively engage the medium’s embarrassing Silver Age history of starfish monsters and alternate universes to allow their titles to be invigorated by that history. Jack Teiwes (University of Melbourne) outlines Alan Moore’s body of work on the Superman concept and how Moore’s use of homage and pastiche, including Supreme and Miracleman, creates a metacommentary about the history of the superhero genre. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

11:45-12:45 Supernatural Screening and Q&A— Supernatural stars Misha Collins (24) and Jim Beaver (Deadwood), creator/executive producer Eric Kripke (Boogeyman), and executive producers Ben Edlund (Angel) and Sera Gamble (Eyes) present an exclusive sneak peek at footage from the highly anticipated fifth season premiere of this thrill-ride series. They’ll also answer questions and show a portion of the special features from the upcoming fourth season DVD release. Produced by Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Supernatural airs Thursdays at 9:00 PM ET/PT on The CW, premiering September 10. Supernatural: The Complete Fourth Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray Hi-Def September 1. Room 6BCF
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Bill Willingham— Both a master storyteller and an incredible artist, Bill Willingham has created a huge following for his bestselling books. His credits range from the DCU’s Justice Society of America, Salvation Run and Robin to the already classic Vertigo titles Fables and Jack of Fables and the new House of Mystery. Moderated by Vertigo group editor Shelly Bond with Fables cohorts Mark Buckingham and Steve Leialoha. Room 2
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

12:00-1:00 IDW: Making Old-School Comic Strips New Again— IDW and the Library of American Comics bring together two wise men of comics, Dean Mullaney (Eisner Award–nominated, Terry and the Pirates) and Criag Yoe (Amazing Ditko) to evaluate the recent resurgence of classic comics, discuss their approach to the material and reveal their plans for coming collections. Room 4
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips

12:00-1:00 Hot Wheels Battle Force 5: World Premiere!— Be the first to see an episode of the all-new CG-animated series Hot Wheels Battle Force 5! The series starts this August on Cartoon Network and tells the story of a group of teen drivers and their five ultra-cool, ultra-fast vehicles. Their mission is to protect the Earth from The Sark, an army of evil robots, and The Vandals, a species of superpredators. After the screening, producer Audu Paden (Spider-Man: The New Animated Series), director Johnny Darrell (Storm Hawks) are joined by real-life Hot Wheels car designers for a behind-the-scenes peek at how the series was created. There will also be plenty of fun activities, trivia, and lots and lots of great prizes! Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Kids | Television

12:00-1:00 How-To Session: Benton Jew— Benton Jew is a storyboard/concept illustrator and comic book artist from Los Angeles. He began his career in film at George Lucas’s Industrial Light & Magic, where he provided artwork on The Mask, The Mummy, and Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. He has also done some comic book work and has recently contributed art to Secret Identities: The Asian-American Superhero Anthology, Rob Hanes Adventures and Marvel’s Agents of Atlas and Hulk Family. Benton will present more information on the creative process from storyboarding on major motion pictures to independent publishing. Room 18
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Movies | Television

12:00-2:00 Browncoats Fan Group Meeting— Fans of Firefly and Serenity are welcome to join the California Browncoats. Get the scoop on upcoming ‘verse-related and ‘verse-friendly events and products that you’ll really love, learn about Waterkeeper Alliance, the charity the group is supporting this year. Drop by any time to join the fun and find out what the Browncoats are up to, but those arriving by 12:20 can enter to play Serenity Spin—put your ‘verse-related trivia to the test to win shiny prizes! Room 24A
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:00-1:00 How to Draw Monsters— Marshall Vandruff shows drawings of monsters by great masters and explains how drawing methods have not changed in over 500 years. He will demonstrate how to come up with ideas for monsters and draw them so they look realistic. Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Kids

12:00-2:00 Asian Ball-Jointed Doll Collectors— Doll owners and enthusiasts discuss the world of Asian ball-jointed resin dolls from companies such as Elfdoll, Volks, Cerberus Project, Customhouse, Fairyland, Angelregion, Bambicrony, and many others. Learn the basics about BJDs, and pick up tips on customizing, maintaining, and photographing these beautiful dolls. Share the beauty of your own unique doll, or just see the many dolls on display, from tiny to towering. Make new friends—both live and resin! Room 32AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Costuming | Fandom

12:30-1:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers Breakouts— This year’s Secret Origin of Good Readers program offers an extended opportunity for attendees to learn and network through select breakout sessions following the main presentation. Participants will be able to choose from two intriguing options: “Promoting Tolerance with the Scrapyard Detectives” with Bill Galvan (creator/artist) and Dr. Robyn A. Hill (teacher educator), or “Building Comics & Graphic Novels Collections in Classrooms and Libraries” with Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics) and Jim Valentino (creator/publisher Silverline Books/Image Comics). Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

12:30-2:00 CBLDF Live Art Jam— Witness live art created before your eyes by comics masters and bid on the chance to carry one home! Join Jim Lee, Terry Moore, and surprise special guests as you get a glimpse behind the scenes of their artistic processes! The Live Art Jam is a treat for fans and students alike. All art will be auctioned to benefit the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. You will need a bidder number to bid on art at this event, which will be distributed at the start of the event. Winning bidders will be able to claim their art from the CBLDF’s booth 1920. Room 5AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books

12:30-2:30 Zoinks! Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins— Come join everyone’s favorite Great Dane as Warner Premiere & Cartoon Network present Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins. The all-new, live-action/CGI film reveals the origins of the Mystery Inc. gang on their first mission together. Be the first to witness the film, then stay for a fun-filled panel featuring director Brian Levant (Beethoven, Snow Dogs), producer Brian Gilbert (Wrong Turn, Skinwalkers), and the all-new live-action cast: Robbie Amell (Life With Derek, True Jackson VP) as Fred, Kate Melton as Daphne, Hayley Kiyoko as Velma, and Nick Palatas as Shaggy. Also expected to attend is Frank Welker, a member of the original Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! voice-cast, who provides the voice of Scooby-Doo for Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins, which will premiere on Cartoon Network and be distributed by Warner Home Video in fall 2009. Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Kids | Movies

12:30-1:30 25 Years of Usagi Yojimbo: Spotlight on Stan Sakai— Learn the history of the ronin rabbit and his supporting cast, and find out what is in store this year. Comic-Con special guest Stan Sakai will do a step-by-step demonstration on his creative process and take questions from the audience. Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

12:30-1:00 Roadside Attractions: Mystery Team— They were kid detectives. Now they’re 18 and still solving child crimes. When challenged to solve a murder, the Mystery Team sees an opportunity to prove they’re real detectives. A dark world of drugs, violence, and swear words awaits them. Mystery Team is the first film by popular Internet comedians Derrick Comedy, and at this panel the group—writers/stars Dominic Dierkes, Donald Glover, and DC Pierson, producer Meggie McFadden, and director/editor Dan Eckman—will be on hand to discuss the film, along with a special VIP moderator. The group will also be debuting an all-new Mystery Team short film. Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Movies

12:45-1:45 Marvel: The Next Generation of Marvel Video Games: Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2, Super Hero Squad, and Iron Man 2— Enjoy trailer previews, discussion, and Q&A on the next wave of Marvel Games from Publishers Activision, SEGA, and THQ. Writers Matt Fraction (Iron Man 2), Mark Hoffmeier (Super Hero Squad), and Evan Skolnick (MUA2) are on hand along with game developers Kyle Brink (SEGA Studios San Francisco), Robert Blackadder (Blue Tongue), Dan Tanguay (Vicarious Visions) and TQ Jefferson (Marvel Studios) to discuss views on how story and design can come together to make licensed games that don’t suck. Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Games

1:00-2:00 Business of Cartoon Voices— So you want to speak for animated characters? Here’s a serious “how to” look at the business telling you what it takes to get in and how to avoid getting ripped-off. Each year for this, Mark Evanier and Earl Kress assemble a panel of agents, casting directors and working actors to give you a no-nonsense look at the business. Room 2
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Movies | Television

1:00-2:00 It Was 30 Years Ago Today: The Kicks and Kitsch of the Year Sci-Fi Struck Back (or: It Was No 1982)— Go back to the thrilling days of yesteryear as the disco era said its final good-byes and the bad hair of the ’80s prepared to make its emergence. A group of professional geeksters guides your look back at some of 1979’s crowning achievements, kitsch, and crap. Join them as they beam aboard Star Trek: The Motion Picture as the human adventure just begins (and possibly give their three cents on the new Trek movie as well), go bidi-bidi-bidi over Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, get sucked into The Black Hole, rip on Jack the Ripper in Time After Time, make Moonraker eyes over Lois Chiles, and listen fruitlessly for screaming in space in Alien. Starring Jeff Bond (Geek Monthly editor), Robert Meyer Burnett (Free Enterprise, The Hills Run Red), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars), Dr. Theopolis, and some special guests and exclusive video treats. Moderated by Mark A. Altman (Free Enterprise, DOA: Dead Or Alive). Room 4
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 Ghost Whisperer Season Five: Everything New Is New Again— The cast and executive producers present an exclusive first look at video clips from the new season of Ghost Whisperer, along with hints and revelations about the game-changing addition of Melinda and Jim’s new baby. Find out how the new character will bring new powers, new challenges, and new rules to the show, and how he will open doors to a whole new paranormal dimension—a dimension that will pit Melinda and her friends and family against entities darker and more dangerous than any she’s ever faced, thrusting her into a battle between forces of good and evil, forces that she never knew existed. Featuring cast members Jennifer Love Hewitt, David Conrad, Christoph Sanders, Jamie Kennedy, and Camryn Manheim and executive producers Ian Sander, Kim Moses, and P. K. Simonds. Room 6BCF
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 comiXology— comiXology.com connects the comic book market with applications, tools and services for comic buyers, retailers and publishers. Hear comiXology-connected retailers (including James Sime of Isotope Comics), publishers (Chip Mosher of BOOM! Studios), and creators talk about the suite of connected tools—including their iPhone digital comics platform—and why they decided to work with comiXology. Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books | Retailer Programming

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Scott Brick— Scott Brick has recorded nearly 500 audiobooks, has won over 40 Earphones Awards, and has twice received Audie Awards in the Best Science Fiction category. He’s been proclaimed a Golden Voice by AudioFile Magazine and was Publishers Weekly’s 2007 Narrator of the Year. Among the classics Scott has narrated are Bladerunner: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick, The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant by Stephen R. Donaldson, Dune by Frank Herbert, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, White Jazz by James Elroy and Mystic River by Dennis Lehane. He will cover the creative process of reading audiobooks and voice acting. Room 18
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-1:30 Overture Pictures: Paper Heart— Despite professing a belief that she’s incapable of love, comedian and actress Charlyne Yi finds herself falling for “Michael Cera,” played by Michael Cera, in this intoxicating mix of documentary, improvisation, and romance. Charlyne Yi, producer/co-writer Nick Jasenovec, and co-star Jake Johnson will be onstage to show clips and pursue the ultimate question: Does true love really exist? Ballroom 20
Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies

1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #15: Comics in Museums— How do comics bridge the worlds of popular art on the stands and fine art on museum walls? Kim Munson (Munson Art Consulting) revisits the 1983 “Comic Art Show” at the Whitney. Michael Dooley (Art Center College of Design) covers two MOMA shows, the 1990 “High and Low” exhibit and the 2005 “Masters of American Comics,” with emphasis on the works of Kurtzman and Spiegelman. Dennis Kitchen (Underground Classics) discusses new trends in museum exhibitions and the just-concluded “Underground Classics” show at the Chazen Art Museum and other shows he has worked on. Room 30AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics Arts Conference

1:00-2:00 Manga Art for Kids— If you love manga, here’s your chance to learn how to draw it! eigoMANGA editors and artists will be on hand to teach the fundamentals of drawing manga for kids of all age. Room 30CDE
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Kids

1:30-2:30 Comics and Graphic Novels for All Ages— It’s true! There’s a wealth of great comic books series and graphic novels out there for comics-loving kids of all ages—so much so, that Comic-Con presents its second big panel of the day on the topic! Moderator Randy Duncan (co-chair of the Comics Arts Conference) talks with Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules!), Kazu Kibuishi (Amulet), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Eric Jones and Landry Walker (Supergirl, Little Gloomy), Jeff Smith (Bone), and Alexis Fajardo (Kid Beowulf) about comics for everyone! Room 3
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Kids

1:30-2:30 Master of Monsters— Author August Ragone (Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Japan’s “Master of Monsters,” Eiji Tsuburaya, the man who created the analog special effects for Godzilla and invented the kaiju eiga (giant monster movie) genre. Much like Derek Meddings (Thunderbirds), Tsuburaya and his team build elaborate miniature city and landscapes, which were summarily destroyed in pyrotechnical conflagrations or by men in monster suits. See over a hundred rare, behind-the-scenes photographs from some of his major films, such as Rodan, The Mysterians, Mothra, and The War of the Gargantuas, all in one big presentation! Room 8
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:30-2:00 Image: Alien Trespass— Directed by X-Files veteran R. W. Goodwin and filmed in classic fifties sci-fi retro style, Alien Trepass is being released on DVD & Blu-ray by Image. If you love such vintage sci-fi epics as It Came From Outer Space and The Blob, come learn more about this tale of an Interstellar lawman whose deadly prisoner, the grotesque Ghota, escapes when their flying saucer crashes near a small desert town in 1950s California. Appearing for the first time: Emmy Award-winning actor Eric McCormack (Will & Grace, Andromeda Strain, and star of fan favorite Free Enterprise) joining co-star Jenni Baird (The 4400) and director R. W. Goodwin. Ballroom 20
Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

2:00-3:00 Sunday Conversation with Dan DiDio— As Comic-Con comes to a close, sit back and unwind as Dan DiDio and friends invite you to a relaxed Sunday afternoon comics discussion. Share your opinions and listen to others as some of comics’ biggest names talk about their love of all things comics. All are welcome, no RSVP required. Room 2
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom

2:00-3:00 The Strand Prophecy— America’s youngest multiple award-winning authors, 14-year-old twins Brittany and Brianna Winner talk about the first two novels in their best selling Strand science fiction/adventure book series, The Strand Prophecy and Extinctions Embrace. They will discuss, their personal journey in publishing, writing novels, scripts and their nonprofit Dream It Tour, titled “If You Can Dream It, You Can Write It!” which reached over 45,000 students last year. This Q&A session is great for the whole family. Free collector pin and poster to the first 200 people attending. Room 4
Categories: Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Art of Pixar’s Cars— Martin Arriola (Mattel), Ryan Gleason, (Mattel), Alan Porter (BOOM! Studios), and Ken Chang (Takefiveaday.com) present an inside peek at the art of the Cars world from the big screen to diecast to comic book series in this inspiring slideshow and Q&A session! Room 5AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Comic Books | Kids | Movies

2:00-3:00 Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time Panel and Q&A— Insomniac Games, creators of the bestselling Ratchet & Clank franchise, are on hand to reveal behind-the-scenes stories about the development of this fall’s Playstation 3 blockbuster, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time. Creative director Brian Allgeier and other team members, including voice talent, will reveal new scenes from the game, the latest trailer, and a new weapon feature. In addition, get a first look at Clank’s new gameplay, and ask your questions during a Q&A. Room 6A
Categories: Games

2:00-3:00 Star Wars Trivia Game Show— Members of the San Diego Star Wars Society, veteran hosts of trivia game shows at Star Wars Celebration III and at Comic-Con International since 2002, have prepared a bigger challenge this year for all fans who think they know their stuff about the galaxy far, far away. Added this year will be one game round for kids 12 and under. Come test your knowledge and win one of the many valuable prizes to be given away. Room 7AB
Categories: Fandom | Kids | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

2:00-3:00 How-To Session: Kevin J. Anderson and Brian Herbert— Kevin J. Anderson has published a hundred books, many of them bestsellers, and many of them in collaboration with Brian Herbert or Doug Beason, as well as his wife, Rebecca Moesta. His solo novels include the Terra Incognita fantasy series and the science fiction epic Saga of Seven Suns. Brian Herbert, the son of Frank Herbert, has published the international bestselling Dune prequels and sequels with Kevin J. Anderson and is the author of his own Timeweb series. He wrote Dreamer of Dune, the Hugo-nominated biography of his illustrious father. Kevin and Brian will conduct a how-to regarding the creative process of writing as a team. They will cover the fundamentals of writing science fiction. A brief history of this writing team will uncover the original premise for the new Dune series of novels, as well as their new series from Tor Books coming out in 2010. Scott Brick, narrator for many of the Dune series audio novels, will moderate this session. Room 18
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Kids Write!— Kids, join creators Chris Giarrusso (G-Man), Chris Schweizer (Crogan’s Vengeance), Eric Wight (Frankie Pickle), and Gene Yang (American Born Chinese) as they draw the story you tell! Moderated by Cory Casoni (Oni Press). Room 30CDE
Categories: Kids | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Muggles, Wizards, Tentpoles, and Fans in the World of Harry Potter— Back for its second year! Panel members Leslie Combemale (ArtInsights Gallery, official/exclusive HP art supplier), Henry Jenkins (USC, author of Convergence Culture), Melissa Anelli (webmaster, The Leaky Cauldron, author of Harry: A History), Gwendolyn Grace (president emeritus, HP Educational Fanon), Lev Grossman (Time magazine book reviewer, author of The Magicians), and Heidi Tandy (webmaster, Fiction Alley) duel over the latest Harry Potter issues. With the release of Half-Blood Prince, what does the future look like for Harry Potter fandom? Moderated by Potter Headmaster Eric Bowling. Room 32AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

2:15-3:45 BBC America: Being Human/Torchwood— You won’t want to miss these special back-to-back panels on Being Human and Torchwood! Being Human creator Toby Whithouse and cast members Russell Tovey, Lenora Crichlow and Aidan Turner appear on stage to give an inside look at BBC America’s U.S. premier sci-fi drama about the lives of three twentysomethings and their secret double-lives—as a werewolf, a vampire, and a ghost. Following that, Torchwood actor John Barrowman, creator/writer/executive producer Russell T Davies, executive producer Julie Gardner, and director Euros Lyn talk about the making of the epic five-night television event Torchwood: Children of Earth as well as take questions from the fans. Ballroom 20
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:30-3:30 The Cultural Shift— Graphic novels and comics have been finding a louder voice in American culture. From the movies to television shows, the influence of comics is now working its way into classrooms and onto the New York Times bestseller lists. How is this happening, and where can it go from here? Join our panel of industry insiders on this insightful conversation: Hillary Chang, Jimmy Gownley, Peter Gutierrez, Nick Smith, and Anne Stockwell, moderated by Snow Wildsmith. Room 3
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

2:30-5:00 Comic-Con 2009 Masquerade Playback— Comic-Con Masquerade Director Martin Jaquish reviews Saturday night’s big costuming event, answers questions, and presents a big-screen video of the show for those who missed it, or who want a second look. Sorry, we cannot sell copies of the show. Room 8
Categories: Costuming | Fandom

2:30-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #16: The Culture of Popular Things: Ethnographic Examinations of Comic-Con 2009— TBMatthew J. Smith (Wittenberg University) moderates a panel of students (Colin Barlow, Jessica Brewer, Ben Bolling, and Brian Swafford) who present initial findings of a week-long field study of how culture is marketed to and practiced by fans at Comic-Con International. Time will be allotted for engaging the audience in a dialogue about their own experiences. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Fandom | Movies | Television

2:45-3:45 Kamen Rider Dragon Knight— Meet the cast of TheCW4Kids new action-packed, monster-clobbering masked-heroes series Kamen Rider Dragon Knight. Stars Stephen Lunsford (Kit), Matt Mullins (Len), and Yvonne Arias (Maya) will answer all your Kamen Rider questions! Plus, fans will get to view never-before-seen footage from future KRDK episodes! Lucky attendees will get the chance to win prizes from Bandai’s KRDK toy line and more! Room 6DE
Categories: Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:00-4:00 Kids’ Graphic Novels from Papercutz— Papercutz is on a roll. In addition to its long-running hit series Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys, this leading publisher of kids’ comics recently revived the popular Classics Illustrated, launched the runaway fan-favorite Bionicle, and brought back the classic Tales from the Crypt with new art and stories by stars like Joe R. Lansdale. What’s next for this fast-moving, innovative house? Try Geronimo Stilton and Disney Fairies! If you don’t know what they are, you will soon—and you’ll get a head start at this panel. See previews of new art and stories, talk with Papercutz’s star creators, and find out what’s next for the hottest house in comics for kids! In attendance will be Papercutz publisher Terry Nantier, editor Jim Salicrup, Bionicle creator and writer Greg Farshtey, Hardy Boys writer Scott Lobdell, Nancy Drew artist Sho Murase, and possibly a surprise guest or two! Room 2
Categories: Comic Books | Kids

3:00-4:00 Making Webcomics— Ron Perazza (Zuda Comics), Kwanza Johnson (Zuda Comics), Kevin Colden (Fishtown, I Rule The Night), Cameron Stewart (Transmission X, Vertigo), Molly Crabapple (Act-i-vate, Dr. Sketchys Anti-Art School), and others present a roundtable discussion about the advantages, challenges, questions, solutions, costs and benefits of making webcomics for fun and profit. Topics include working with a publisher, self-publishing, promoting yourself, best practices, style, and moving from web to print (or vice versa)! Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

3:00-4:00 Comic-Con Talkback— Here’s your chance to tell us how we did. Comic-Con management will be present to field questions, comments, criticism, and perhaps even a compliment or two. Room 5AB
Categories: Talkback

3:00-4:30 Starship Smackdown XIII: Ultimate Edition— The legendary Comic-Con rumble in the jungle is back! Come prepared for a battle beyond the stars like no other. Ever wonder what would happen if an Imperial Star Destroyer went up against the Starship Enterprise or the Serenity were locked in mortal combat with the Salvage One? We know, but we’re not telling! That’s why you need to vote early and often at the always SRO Starship Smackdown extravaganza, repeating last year’s insanely popular “Captains’ Courageous” lightning round. Starring your expert panel of spaceship-ologists including Ashley E. Miller (Fringe, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronciles), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars), Robert Meyer Burnett (The Hills Run Red), Jeff Bond (Geek Monthly editor), comedian Mary Forrest, Chris Gossett (The Red Star) and moderated by Mark A. Altman (Free Enterprise, DOA: Dead Or Alive). Behold the ultimate smackdown! Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:00-4:00 How to Toon: Kids Cartooning Class— Joe Wos, a resident cartoonist of the Charles M. Schulz Museum and executive director of the ToonSeum in Pittsburgh, PA, offers a hands-on cartooning basics workshop for children of all ages. Room 30CDE
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Full-time Creative Work on a Part-time Schedule— Learn the secret to using part-time collaboration to achieve full-time results! No matter which industry (comics, illustration, movies, animation), breaking into today’s media is a full-time job, even if you have only part-time hours to accomplish it. Topher Davila (editor and co-creator of TomatoTV.net), Mario Martinez (co-creator of TomatoTV.net), Kevin Flessing (TomatoTV.net columnist: TomatoTV Guide), Jonelle Cobb (web designer), Ron Coleman (TomatoTV.net columnist: “Doctor Professor”), and Joe Combs (web designer/coder) tell how they successfully juggle time between the creative and business sides from their experiences in illustration, business branding, writing, and animation. Whether you struggle with deadlines, are a creative hobbyist, or simply want to know how to get your foot in the door, this panel is not to be missed! Room 32AB
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:15-4:15 Army of Two: The 40th Day: Bridging Video Games with Comics— Reid Schneider (executive producer, Army of Two) and Alex Hutchinson (creative director, Army of Two) discuss how they have been working with comic artists to show players the consequences of their moral choices throughout the game and how the in-depth involvement of these artists in the production of Army of Two changes the feel of the game. Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Games

3:30-4:30 Grandville and the Anthropomorphic Comic Tradition— Bryan Talbot (The Adventures of Luther Arkwright) presents his forthcoming steampunk detective thriller Grandville and its influences, followed by a Q & A session. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:30-4:30 501st Costuming: Dressing to Serve the Empire!— This panel describes the essentials about what it takes to create a costume that meets the standards of quality for entry into the 501st Legion. It provides an overview of what is involved in creating a costume, the various costume categories and how much time is involved in creating a costume that is screen accurate. A panel of experts will describe, display, and demonstrate tips and techniques used for their costume specialty. They will also discuss the mission of the 501st Legion. Room 30AB
Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

4:00-5:00 Buffy the Musical— Let’s end this show with a bang! The powers that be behind Fandom Charities Inc. and Whedonopolis.com present a screening of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer musical episode “Once More With Feeling” as Comic-Con 2009’s big closing event! Many say this is the finest, funniest, most ingenious episode ever to come out of the Buffy-verse. But remember, the best part of the show is up to you! This episode was made for talkin’—back, that is—and singing and shouting and dancing in the aisles, with or without your dry cleaning! Audience participation: it isn’t just for Rocky Horror and mob riots anymore. For more details on the screening visit www.whedonopolis.com, then show up for music, singing, surprises and dancing crazy! Ballroom 20
Categories: Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

San Diego Comic-Con International has released the schedule for the Saturday the 24th events.  We have posted the full schedule below:

Saturday, July 25
Last changed: Sat, Jul 11, 2:28pm

10:00-11:00 How to Get a Job in the Video Game Industry— Capcom presents an insider’s look at how a video game is made from concept through development and marketing, featuring a panel of Capcom professionals who will explain what they do in the whole process and, most important, how they got their job in the video game industry so you can gain insight for your own possible entry into the business. Featuring Motohide Eshiro (Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth), Mona Hamilton, Melody Pfeiffer, and other Capcom staff. Moderated by Francis Mao. Includes an in-depth Q&A session. Room 2
Categories: Games | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 Writers’ Guild Panel: PG-13 Animation— Is animation growing up, or is a PG-13 rating just an excuse for cartoon writers to use bad words and graphically kill off their characters? Alan Burnett (Green Lantern: First Flight), Matt Wayne (Hellboy Animated: Sword of Storms), Michael Jelenic (Wonder Woman), Charles Horn (Robot Chicken), Paul Dini (Return of the Joker), Greg Johnson (The Ultimate Avengers, The Invincible Iron Man, Doctor Strange), and Stan Berkowitz (Justice League: New Frontier, Superman/Batman: Public Enemies) will answer this as well as other, more serious questions about this new genre (if you don’t count 1972’s Fritz the Cat). Spoiler alert: Expect these writers to announce lots of exciting new projects. Room 3
Categories: Animation | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:30 The Black Panel— By now you must have heard about the massive amount of fun The Black Panel is! 2009’s panel will be the one that puts all others to shame. This year’s panel includes Ludacris, Michael Jai White (Black Dynamite), Kel Mitchell (Kenan & Kel, The Brash Brothers), Prodigal Sunn (The Wu Tang Clan), Reggie Hudlin (Black Panther animated series), Denys Cowan (Black Panther animated series), and as always some surprise guests! Moderated by Michael Davis. Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television

10:00-11:00 Marvel: “Hero Up” with The Super Hero Squad Show!— Marvel’s first action-comedy series is a manic, mind-blowing, all-ages romp through the Marvel Universe. Coming to Cartoon Network in September, the animated show is loaded with superstar voice talent. Several of the actors will preview their characters in a live performance: Tom Kenny (Spongebob) as Iron Man and MODOK, Charlie Adler (Cow and Chicken, Transformers features) as Dr. Doom, Steve Blum (Wolverine and the X-Men) as Wolverine, Grey DeLisle (Fairly Oddparents, Clone Wars) as Ms. Marvel, and Stan “The Man” Lee as The Mayor. Supervising producer Cort Lane (Iron Man: Armored Adventures), Matt Wayne (Justice League Unlimited), supervising director Mitch Schauer (Freakazoid, Angry Beavers), and executive producers Joe Quesada (Marvel editor-in-chief) and Eric Rollman (president, Marvel Animation) share series secrets, a world premiere clip and a preview of THQ’s epic Super Hero Squad video game. Followed by Q&A! Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television

10:00-11:00 IDW: Angel on the Rise— With L.A. back from Hell, what’s next for IDW’s Angel comics? Fans of the show and the tall, dark, and brooding fangster can find out who’s still fighting, who’s been eaten, and what sinister forces are still to come during this panel featuring Juliet Landau (Angel writer/actress), Brian Lynch (Angel: After the Fall), Peter David (Fallen Angel), plus the reveal of the all-new monthly Angelwriter and more! Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Television

10:00-11:00 Spotlight on Lewis Trondheim— French comics luminary and Comic-Con special guest Lewis Trondheim (Kaput and Zosky) talks about his career as one of Europe’s top cartoonists with Mark Siegel (First Second Books). Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 How-To Session: Allison Sohn— Allison Sohn has been working the past few years as a trading and sketchcard artist. Her works include characters from Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings, X-Men, and various other comic book properties. A classically trained artist and graphic designer, Allison works primarily with Copic Markers for her printed works as well as her sketchcards. She will discuss working in the sketchcard trade as well as her perspective on working with movie and superhero projects. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

10:00-11:00 Chuck Screening and Q&A— Chuck returns to Comic-Con! executive producers and co-creators Josh Schwartz (Gossip Girl) and Chris Fedak are joined by series stars Zachary Levi (upcoming Alvin and the Chipmunks ), Yvonne Strahovski (upcoming I Love You Too), Joshua Gomez (Without a Trace), Ryan McPartlin (Super Capers), Mark Christopher Lawrence ( The Pursuit of Happyness ), Vik Sahay ( This Is Wonderland ) , Scott Krinsky ( The O.C. ), Sarah Lancaster ( Everwood ) , and Adam Baldwin (Serenity) for a Q&A to discuss season three and screen an exclusive retrospective highlight reel. Plus, don’t miss a special surprise from some of your favorite characters! Produced by College Hill Pictures, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Chuck airs Mondays at 8:00 PM ET/PT on NBC. Ballroom 20
Categories: Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

10:00-11:00 TwiFic FanGroup— AngstGoddess003 (Wide Awake), EZRocksAngel (Creature of Habit), tby789 (The Office), manyafandom (The Arrangement) and more of the most popular writers in Fan Fic discuss their stories, writing, and thoughts on canon. Join us for Q&A time with some of the best fan fiction writers out there! Room 24A
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:15-11:15 Eastwick Pilot Screening and Q&A— Be among the first to see the pilot of the highly anticipated series Eastwick. Based on the John Updike novel and the hit film The Witches of Eastwick, this sexy and bold comedic drama centers on three young witches whose powers are awakened when a mysterious man moves to town. Be careful what you wish for—the perfect man truly may be the Devil! Series stars Rebecca Romijn ( X-Men), Lindsay Price ( Lipstick Jungle), Jaime Ray Newman (Veronica Mars), and Paul Gross (Due South ) join creator/executive producer Maggie Friedman (Related) and director/executive producer David Nutter (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles) to answer questions from the audience after this exclusive sneak peek. Produced by Warner Bros. Television, Eastwick airs Wednesdays at 10:00 PM ET/PT this fall on the ABC Television Network. Room 6A
Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 3— Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! DC Representatives discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, and Zuda. This informative orientation session explains how DC’s Talent Search works and provides numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

10:30-11:30 Nickelodeon: Are You Ready Kids? Ten Years of Spongebob SquarePants!— Celebrate 10 years of happiness with the world’s most beloved sponge, along with executive producer Paul Tibbitt, creative director Vincent Waller (The Ren and Stimpy Show), and story editor Steven Banks (The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius). The cast, including the voice of SpongeBob himself, Tom Kenny, will perform a live table read of a classic fan-favorite from Season 1. Q&A with the cast and crew follows, and be among the first to watch the yet-to-air episode, “Greasy Buffoons.” Moderated by Claudia Spinelli, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

10:30-11:30 Film Illustrators— Films, graphic novels, and comic books: what does it take to work as an illustrator in this ever-changing, challenging world of imagination? Meet the professionals who work with the writers, directors, producers, and production designers in the dynamic craft of creating iconic images for films and comics from the words on a page. Panelists are Tim Burgard (X-Men Origins: Wolverine), Trevor Goring (Waterloo Sunset graphic novel), Gabriel Hardman (Heathen Town graphic novel), Benton Jew (Star Wars: The Phantom Menace), and Phil Saunders (Iron Man). Moderated by Geoff Boucher of the Los Angeles Times. Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Movies

10:30-12:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #9: Is the Joker a Psychopath: You Decide!— Psychology professors Robin Rosenberg (The Psychology of Superheroes) and Travis Langley (Henderson State University) discuss the technical definition of a psychopath and review the criteria for antisocial personality disorder — does the Joker fit the clinical definition? Is he more than just crazy? They are joined by Joker experts Jerry Robinson (The Superhero: The Golden Age of Comic Books, 1938—1950), famed “Joker-fish” scribe Steve Englehart (The Point Man), and film producer Michael Uslan (The Dark Knight). Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Movies | Superheroes | Television

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 303: Let’s Make Lots of Money!— Noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of the sold-out The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, covers some of the more complicated issues facing the creative community, particularly in light of the ever-expanding worlds of new media. Creators aren’t the only ones facing potential problems and issues—publishers, distributors, retailers, and even the ultimate consumers can find themselves facing legal issues they never expected. Infringements, misuse, tarnishment, dilution, knockoffs, lawsuits, satires, parodies, fair use, blogs, podcasts, tweets, and cybersquatters are just some of the many potential problems that may arise once creative works and products become accessible to others. This session explores how copyright and trademark rights are enforced, how one’s legal muscles may be flexed, and what to do when finding yourself in a legal mine field. Plus, time permitting, discussion about significant recent legislation and legal decisions that are likely to affect the field of popular culture and how these issues play an important role in your creative and business plans. (Please note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. This program is approved for one credit of California MCLE.) Room 30CDE
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 Dark Horse: We Love Comics, Too!— Join director of public relations Jeremy Atkins and senior managing editor Scott Allie, along with a cast of top creators, for an exclusive preview of all that Dark Horse has to offer in the coming year. This is the big one! Dark Horse breaks the mold with a format you’ve never seen! With breaking news on all of your favorite Dark Horse titles, major announcements and surprise guests, be the first to know about heroes, horror, and more! Room 2
Categories: Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Superheroes

11:00-12:00 Spirituality in Comics— Panelists discuss the influence of spiritual themes in comics and popular culture, and the importance of spirituality to readers, creators, and the stories they tell. Moderated by Scott Shuford of the Christian Comic Arts Society, with panelists including Holly Golightly (School Bites), Buzz Dixon (Serenity, Goofyfoot Gurl), Leo Partible (Behind the Screen: Insiders on Faith), and others. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books

11:00-12:00 Dune— The legacy of legendary science fiction author Frank Herbert lives on, in the safe hands of his son Brian Herbert and co-author Kevin J. Anderson, both Comic-Con special guests this year. Brian and Kevin will talk about the ongoing series of novels and all things Dune: past, present, and future. Room 7AB
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 Terry Moore— Don’t miss this always entertaining and informative chat with the creator of Strangers in Paradise and ECHO. Terry Moore will be talking about the limited-edition Strangers In Paradise Omnibus debuting at Comic-Con, his Eisner-nominated series ECHO, and his upcoming projects! Terry always has a surprise up his sleeve—don’t miss this year’s! Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

11:00-1:00 How-To Session: Adam Hughes— Adam Hughes is most commonly known for his stylized renderings of women: superheroines, damsels in distress, and figures in fantasy. Adam is considered by many to be one of a new generation of Good Girl artists inspired by Petty, Vargas, and Elvgren. He has worked on many DC titles, most notably Justice League and Wonder Woman, and has just finished a long run as the monthly cover artist on Catwoman. Adam will grace the stage for a two-hour demonstration on sketching characters. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

Sat, Jul 11, 02:28PM 11:00-12:00 Women in Manga— Newsflash! Women read manga! We all know that teenage girls have been driving much of the manga boom, but did you know that women are making massive contributions to fandom, the industry, and beyond? Moderated by Eva Volin, this panel will feature Leyla Aker, Deb Aoki, Robin Brenner, Becky Cloonan, Lillian Diaz-Przybyl, and JuYoun Lee as they discuss the state of women in the manga industry, female fans within the manga community, and just where women go from here in supporting and advocating for the media they love. Room 24A
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Fandom

11:00-12:00 Lost: The Final Season Begins, with Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse— In appreciation of all the fan support through five seasons of Lost, co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producer Carlton Cuse will pay homage to all the fans at their final Comic-Con appearance for Lost. Questions will be answered. Fun will be had. And you won’t want to miss the surprises in store for the audience! Hall H
Categories: Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

11:15-12:30 Quick Draw!— We say it each and every year, but it’s true: Quick Draw is the most fun panel you can visit at Comic-Con. Mark Evanier puts Sergio Aragonés, Scott Shaw!, and this year’s guest artist, Disney Legend Floyd Norman, through their paces as they draw on the big screen. If you haven’t seen this amazing display of cartooning magic, this is the year for you: join the fun! Room 6BCF
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

11:15-12:00 Family Guy— Seth MacFarlane and the brilliant creative minds behind Family Guy present a raucous discussion of what goes on behind the scenes of TV’s most subversive animated hit. They’ll also be offering a not-to-be-missed sneak peek at “Something, Something Dark Side,” the Empire Strikes Back parody follow-up to Star Wars: Blue Harvest. Giggity! Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Francis Manapul— The hot up-and-coming artist Francis Manapul takes the stage to discuss his kinetic art on one of the most anticipated projects of the year: Adventure Comics with Geoff Johns! Hosted by group editor Matt Idelson, see what it’s like illustrating the return of Superboy. Come find out from one of the freshest artists in the biz! Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

11:30-12:30 The Stories of DC Universe Online featuring Jim Lee and Marv Wolfman— Jim Lee (Batman: Hush) and Marv Wolfman (The New Teen Titans) have joined forces to help create DC Universe Online. Jim, Marv, and key members of the development team from Sony Online Entertainment talk about how storylines are being built into this upcoming online action game at every level. Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Games

11:30-12:30 Marvel: Dark Reign— The Cabal has taken over the Marvel Universe and forever changed it. Now, Norman Osborn has his LIST and is taking everyone down who stands in his way. What lies on the horizon? Find out here as the creators behind the madmen and women putting the Marvel Heroes through their paces answer your questions and let you in on what happens next! Joe Quesada, Rick Remender (Dark Reign: The List), Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man), Jason Aaron (Dark Reign: The List), Frank Tieri (Dark Reign: Made Men), Joe Casey (Dark Reign: Zodiac), Marvel editor Alejandro Arbona, and others shed some light on Dark Reign! Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Sheldon Moldoff— Golden and Silver Age comics great Sheldon “Shelly” Moldoff is once again a Comic-Con special guest! The prolific artist (Hawkman, Batman) talks with comic book writer/editor Mark Waid (Amazing Spider-Man, 52, editor-in-chief of BOOM! Studios) about Shelly’s long career in comics. Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

11:30-12:30 Activision/Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2— Marvel and Activision have a long history of bringing some of the world’s most popular and beloved comic book storylines to video games and their fans. That pedigree will continue with a number of Stan Lee’s famed Marvel characters inspired by Mark Millar’s Civil War storyline, brought to life in Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2. Learn first-hand the various facets that go into transforming a comic book’s storyline into a captivating video game, including voice work, writing, development, and creativity, all the while evolving with the high-definition environment of the gaming world. Join Stan Lee, game voice-over actors Armin Shimmerman and Fred Tatasciore, and members from Activision’s development studio, Vicarious Visions, to gain insight and a preview of the imagination, creative process and technology used to develop some of the most advanced superhero games ever. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Games | Superheroes

11:45-12:45 Ben 10— It’s all about Ben 10 at this panel featuring director Alex Winter and cast members from the upcoming live-action movie Ben 10: Alien Swarm coming this fall to Cartoon Network. Also appearing are Ben 10 Alien Force producer Glenn Murakami, story editor Dwayne McDuffie, and Yuri Lowenthal (voice of Ben). Make sure not to miss an exclusive look at what’s coming next with a sneak peek at Generator Rex and the first images from the upcoming series, Sym-Bionic Titan, by creator Genndy Tartakovsky (Samurai Jack, Dexter’s Laboratory). Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Kids | Superheroes | Television | Writers & Writing

12:00-1:00 Diamond Select: Minimates— Learn the latest about this popular and highly collectible action figure line direct from the source: Diamond Select! Room 2
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books

12:00-1:00 VIZ Media’s IKKI— Introducing IKKI, a monthly magazine published in Japan that has established itself as the home of some of the most innovative, bold, and compelling series in the world of contemporary manga. VIZ Media has partnered with IKKI magazine to bring their groundbreaking manga to North American readers through free chapter previews at www.sigikki.com. Meet Mr. Hideki Egami, the editor-in-chief of IKKI magazine in Japan, and find out why IKKI means Comix. Room 3
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books

12:00-1:00 Comic Strip Syndication Is Dead: Long Live Syndication!— This Q&A session with Stephan Pastis (Pearls Before Swine), Richard Thompson (Cul De Sac) and Keith Knight (The K Chronicles) looks at the pros and cons of comic strip syndication and the challenges and options for aspiring comic strip creators in this era of declining newspaper readership. Room 7AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Webcomics

12:00-1:00 Aspen Universe and Beyond— The Aspen Comics team of Frank Mastromauro (Dellec), Peter Steigerwald (Soulfire), Vince Hernandez (Dellec), Mark Roslan (Heroes), J.T. Krul (Fathom), David Wohl (EA: Iris), Joe Benitez (Soulfire), Micah Gunnell (Dellec), Ale Garza (Fathom), and Beth Sotelo (Soulfire) discuss the latest developments on exciting properties such as Fathom, Soulfire, Dellec, and Executive Assistant: Iris! Also, Aspen will reveal news on a brand new series on the horizon and much more! The Aspen crew will also hold a Q&A and all panel-goers will receive a one-of-a-kind Aspen Comics “San Diego Comic Con 2009 Panel Exclusive” limited-edition comic book available only to panel attendees! Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 The Cleveland Show!— Comic-Con fans will get the first look at The Cleveland Show, the wickedly funny new spinoff from Family Guy starring America’s favorite beleaguered animated African American, Cleveland Brown. Co-creators Seth MacFarlane, Mike Henry, and Rich Appel and voice castmembers Sana’a Lathan and Kevin Michael Richardson will all be on hand to discuss this new series premiering on Fox in the fall. Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-1:00 Indiana Jones Fan Group Meeting: Indyfans and The Quest for Fortune and Glory— The Indyfans are back for their third year. Meet the documentary’s filmmakers and discuss all things Indy. Talk with special guests from within the world of Indy merchandise, and don’t miss out on giveaways, and more! It’s time once again to keep up with the Joneses. Room 24A
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

12:00-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #10: Becoming Batman and Batman Becoming— E. Paul Zehr (University of Victoria) in Becoming Batman—Is There Science Behind the Superhero? answers the question of whether it is scientifically possible to train to become Batman—it is, but for how long? Gearoid O’Brien (National University of Ireland Galway) contends that Grant Morrison’s Batman: RIP is indicative of the way contemporary culture rejects conventional modes of resolution and ushers mainstream comic books headfirst into an age of uncertainty and cultural nihility. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: The Heroic Figure with Dave Gibbons— As the co-creator of Watchmen and Martha Washington, Dave Gibbons established himself as a master of creating immediately iconic heroes. Bring your sketchbooks and follow along as he shows you his creative process for creating dynamic, heroic figures at this live art demonstration! The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF’s auction! Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Gary Gianni— “Monsters, Cowboys, Ghosts and Pirates” is the theme of a chat and slide show presented by Comic-Con special guest Gary Gianni (The Monster Men). Geof Darrow (Shaolin Cowboy) and Mike Mignola (Hellboy) will also be on hand to add commentary. Comics, books, and movies will be discussed. Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Hasbro: Marvel— Michelle Favaloro and Scott George (Hasbro Marketing), along with Joshua Lamb, Dave Vonner, Logan Lubera, and Dwight Stall (Hasbro Design), present the latest toys from the Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, Wolverine, Marvel Universe and Super Hero Squad toy lines from 2009. Also, see a sneak peek into the 2010 line! Room 5AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Superheroes

12:30-2:00 Cartoon Voices I— Another annual gathering of the cream of the voice acting business. Co-hosts Mark Evanier and Earl Kress bring you the vocal stylings of Laraine Newman (As Told by Ginger), Bill Farmer (Goofy), James Arnold Taylor (Johnny Test), TV legend Chuck McCann, and others. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television

12:30-1:30 IDW: Joe Hill— Bestselling novelist and Eisner-nominated comics writer Joe Hill (Locke & Key) will discuss his acclaimed comic book series, Locke & Key, with IDW publisher/editor-in-chief Chris Ryall, complete with details on the next installment, coming this fall! Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Sanctuary— Before Sanctuary returns for an all-new season, don’t miss your chance to go inside the action and behind the scenes. Join stars Amanda Tapping (Dr. Helen Magnus) and Robin Dunne (Dr. Will Zimmerman) as well as executive producers Martin Wood and Damian Kindler for an exclusive conversation about one of television’s most innovative shows. Moderated by Michael Logan, TV Guide. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:45-2:00 DCU Editorial Presentation— Senior VP/executive editor DCU Dan DiDio, senior story editor—DCU Ian Sattler, and countless DCU talent are gathering for a discussion that’s not to be missed. Now that Blackest Night is upon us, what lies ahead for your favorite heroes? Got a question for your favorite DCU creator? Come on by! There’s no greater gathering of top-tier creative talent! Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 Comic-Con in the ’90s— The decade of the 1990s was one of continued growth for Comic-Con, as the event settled into its current home at the San Diego Convention Center. Frank Allison (Board member), Ned Cato Jr. (Board member), Beth Holley (former VP, Exhibits), Clydene Nee (Artists’ Alley coordinator), Chris Sturhann (Board member), Mary Sturhann (Board secretary), and moderator Mark Yturralde (treasurer) discuss their roles in the show and what happened in the ’90s! Room 2
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Fandom

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Nicola Cuti— Writer, artist, editor, filmmaker Nicola Cuti is a first-time Comic-Con special guest. Famous for his comics work at Charlton Comics and on E-Man (co-created with artist Joe Staton), among others, Nic talks with his daughter Jaymee Rose Cuti, formerly of the Pasadena Weekly and Arts and Entertainment editor for Just Out, and Michele Brooks, former marketing director of America II Electronics, and Renaissance Fair and Gasparella Pirate Festival actress, in this career-spanning Spotlight event! Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 From Chainsaws to Renegade Spies: 101 Ways to Save the Universe Only on Xbox 360— Xbox 360 has established itself as the home of the best action games in the industry, bar none. Join the creative teams behind Ubisoft’s Splinter Cell: Conviction, Valve’s Left 4 Dead 2, BioWare’s Mass Effect 2, Bungie’s Halo 3 ODST, and Epic’s Cliff Bleszinski (Gears of War) as they discuss developing their blockbuster franchises exclusively on Xbox 360. Room 6DE
Categories: Games

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on James Jean— The Eisner Award–winning artist and painter is a first-time Comic-Con special guest. James Jean has won multiple awards and acclaim for his work as a comics cover artist, on titles such as Fables and Umbrella Academy. Now he’s entered a new phase of his career, as he concentrates on gallery shows, book projects, and painting. Room 7AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:00-2:00 Will Eisner’s New York— Did you know that New York City played a central role in much of Will Eisner’s writing and artwork? Learn about the life-long relationship between Will Eisner and New York City from Charles Kochman (executive editor, Abrams ComicArts), Paul Levitz (president & publisher, DC Comics), Diana Schutz (executive editor, Dark Horse Comics), Dennis Kitchen (Will Eisner’s publisher, agent, and long-time friend), and Carl Gropper (Will Eisner’s nephew and manager of Will Eisner Studios). Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Tributes

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Matt Busch— Join Star Wars artist Matt Busch as he covers all the tricks of the trade, not only for creating dynamic illustrations but also on how to break into the industries of comics and pop culture. Matt will share some of his adventures and give unique insight into how you can make your dreams of working for your favorite publisher or Hollywood property come true. He will also show some videos and have prizes for those with great questions! Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-1:45 Futurama: Life or Death?!— Be a part of sci-fi history! Join executive producers Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, and stars Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio, and Maurice LaMarche for high-stakes thrills as a top-ranking FOX executive decides live, on stage, whether Futurama will make yet another triumphant return or whether it is gone forever! The very fate of Futurama hangs in the balance! Paramedics will be standing by in case the intense excitement causes any panelists to collapse. Raucous celebration or abject despair to follow the news. Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 SteamPunk Meet-Up!— Do you hunger for a past that never was? If your gears are turned by the speculative future of Jules Verne and H. G. Wells, Neo-Victorian, steam, and clockwork then you’ll want to check out this meetup. The group will be discussing the Steampunk aesthetic, meet others, share projects and ideas, and discuss this exciting and beautiful culture! Room 24A
Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #11: The (Strange) State of Siegel and Shuster Scholarship— Brad Ricca (Case Western Reserve University), director of Last Son, a scholarly documentary on Siegel and Shuster, moderates this conversational panel featuring Craig Yoe (Secret Identity: The Fetish Art of Superman Co-Creator Joe Shuster) and Lauren Agostino, an independent scholar, who will share letters connected to the 1947 lawsuit and portions of the original Superboy script that completely upset a lot of myths about who created Superboy. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Sessions: The Art of the Panel with Jeff Smith— Every comics page is an avalanche of creative decisions. The successful comics storyteller must move the reader not just through the larger story but through each panel, conveying crucial story information with clarity, economy, and flair. With his nine-volume masterpiece, Bone, and his new series RASL, Jeff Smith is a proven master of comics storytelling. Bring your sketchbooks and your questions as he gives an in-depth view of the process of building a successful comics panel. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF’s auction! Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

1:30-2:30 The One-Panel Panel— A single image can hold an entire world in miniature. Comic-Con special guests Charles Vess (Stardust), Hope Larson (Chiggers), and Michael Allred (Madman), plus Larry Marder (Beanworld) will each show and discuss one particularly meaningful panel from their own comics—how it came together, and where it led them as cartoonists. Moderated by Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:30-2:30 Bram Stoker: The Joss Whedon of His Day?— Moderator Leslie Klinger (The New Annotated Dracula), an authority on the influence on generations of storytellers of Stoker’s work, discusses Stoker’s impact with panelists Dacre Stoker & Ian Holt (Dracula: The Un-Dead), Jeanne Stein (The Anna Strong Vampire Chronicles), Chris Marie Green (The Path of Razors), Tony Lee (From the Pages of Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’: Harker), J. F. Lewis (Staked), and Steve Niles (30 Days of Night). Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Ramón Valdiosera— One of the true legends of the Mexican comics industry, Ramón Valdiosera Berman comes to Comic-Con for the very first time. Mr. Valdiosera is the creator of such famed Mexican comics titles as Ladro de Bagdad (Bagdad Thief) and Medio Litro (the little version of a “valiant prince,” which was created with Prince Valiant’s Hal Foster’s blessing). Joining Mr. Valdiosera will be Arturo Said, his assistant. Moderated by Sergio Aragonés, don’t miss this special talk with one of Mexico’s most famous comic book creators! Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:30-2:30 Miramax: Extract— Mike Judge, the creator of such comedy classics as Office Space, Beavis and Butthead and King of the Hill is back with his latest film Extract starring Jason Bateman (Arrested Development), Mila Kunis (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), and Kristen Wiig (Saturday Night Live). Join Judge and his cast for a discussion and first look at scenes from their new film. Hall H
Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies

1:30-3:00 Glee— When FOX aired a special preview of its subversive new comedy musical series Glee after the American Idol finale, the response was through the roof, and fans have hungered for another episode ever since. The wait is over! Stars Matthew Morrison, Lea Michele and Cory Monteith and the producers of the FOX hit present a sneak preview screening of a never-before-broadcast episode with panel discussion to follow. Don’t Stop Believin’, Comic-Con fans! Glee is here! Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Television

1:45-2:30 The Simpsons— Now entering its record-breaking 21st season on the air, The Simpsons is the longest-running series in the history of American television and a household name around the world. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming up in the Simpsonverse, including never-before-seen highlights from the upcoming “Treehouse of Horror XX,” with a panel including Simpsons creator Matt Groening, showrunner Al Jean, executive producer Matt Selman, and supervising director Mike Anderson. Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

2:00-3:00 The Saboteur: Rethinking the WWII Gaming Genre— Pandemic Studios’ lead designer Tom French and art director Chris Hunt discuss how historical events served as the foundation for their upcoming action sandbox game The Saboteur, who the Saboteur is, and how the innovative combination of game design and artistic style were employed to develop a unique experience. Room 2
Categories: Games

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Dennis Kitchen— Writer, cartoonist, publisher, agent, and comics historian Dennis Kitchen is a Comic-Con special guest. From his early days as a staple of the Underground (both as artist and publisher), to his current books (Harvey Kurtzman: The MAD Genius of Comics, Underground Comix), and his friendships with legends Kurtzman and Will Eisner. Kitchen has had a 40-year career that is a history of comics in and of itself, including his founding of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. And let’s not forget his cartooning prodigy daughter, Alexa Kitchen, who created her first published book when she was 7! Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

2:00-3:00 Nickelodeon’s The Penguins of Madagascar: Making a Splash— Executive producers Mark McCorkle and Bob Schooley (Kim Possible), supervising producer Bret Haaland (Futurama), creative consultant and voice of Skipper Tom McGrath (Madagascar 1 & 2), and cast members John DiMaggio (Rico), Jeff Bennett (Kowalski), and Danny Jacobs (King Julien) preview a never-before-seen clip from an upcoming Penguins special and perform a table read from a new episode. Followed by Q&A as they discuss the process of bringing the popular Penguins from the big screen to their very own series. Moderated by Rich Magallanes, executive director for Nickelodeon. Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Kids | Television

2:00-3:00 Webcomics Bootcamp— Four of the web’s top comics artists—Scott Kurtz (PvP), Brad Guigar (Evil Inc), Kris Straub (Starslip), and Dave Kellett (Sheldon)—teach you how to use the web to publish, market, and monetize your comics. Much like their popular podcast, this session promises to be equal parts information and raucous fun. Room 8
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Webcomics

2:00-3:00 The Lost Podcast with Jay and Jack— Father and son team Jay and Jack Glatfelter have one of the oldest and biggest podcasts dedicated to ABC’S Lost. Discuss the gripping season finale, and learn about the huge dedicated online community for TV’s most mind twisting drama. Room 24A
Categories: Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:00-3:00 Drawing Lessons from Great Masters of Comic Art— Marshall Vandruff (marshallart.com) teaches classic principles of drawing from great artists of early 20th century comics and illustration, such as Heinrich Kley, George Herriman, and Winsor McCay. He will showcase their work, pointing out examples of their high standards of draftsmanship that continue to inspire artists seeking mastery, and explain how the old disciplines of anatomy, perspective, and pen & ink technique apply to artists of modern media. Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:15-3:15 Warehouse 13— This summer, the unknown has an address in the new Syfy Original Series, Warehouse 13. Stars Eddie McClintock (Pete Lattimer), Joanne Kelly (Myka Bering), Saul Rubinek (Artie Nielsen), Allison Scagliotti (Claudia Donovan), Jack Kenny (executive producer/showrunner) and David Simkins (executive producer) reveal confidential information. Room 6A
Categories: Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:15-3:15 DC: Green Lantern: Blackest Night— The dead are rising in the DCU — who will survive when the Blank Lantern Corps attacks? This is your only chance to hear what’s coming up in Blackest Night, the most anticipated comic event of the year! Featuring all the key figures behind the biggest, coolest threat to the DCU in years! Hosted by group editor Eddie Berganza with Geoff Johns (Green Lantern), Pat Gleason (Green Lantern Corps), and others! Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:15-3:15 Gerard Way— The creator of The Umbrella Academy talks about the next arc of his award-winning series with Gabriel Bá, announces his new project, and fields questions from the audience. Room 6DE
Categories: Comic Books

2:30-3:30 Using Comics in the Classroom— Calling all teachers, school librarians, all-ages publishers and kid-friendly cartoonists! Help cultivate the next generation of comic readers with a practical guide on the hows and whys of using comics in the classroom courtesy of this panel of Certified Awesome experts. Teachers will learn how to win over skeptical administrators, integrate comics into the curriculum, and find the best books for their students, while publishers will be given strategies for getting their titles into this burgeoning new market. Panelists include Jimmy Gownley, Peter Gutierrez, Gina Gagliano, and David Serchay, with moderator Josh Elder. Room 4
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops

2:30-3:30 Spotlight on June Foray— She’s the first lady of cartoon voices! Comic-Con special guest June Foray, known for her memorable work with a certain moose and squirrel (Bullwinkle and Rocky, the Flying Squirrel, that is), returns to Comic-Con for the 40th show. Mark Evanier and Earl Kress interview June about her career as a voice actress, author, and Hollywood legend. Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Television

2:30-3:30 BOOM!: Farscape Comics— BOOM! Studios’ best-selling sold-out Farscape line of comics are the surprise hit of 2009! Farscape creator and comics writer Rockne O’Bannon and writer Keith R. A. DeCandido offer for an intensive discussion about the past, present, and future of this enduring sci-fi franchise. If you are a ’scaper don’t miss this panel. Big announcements will be made! Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:30-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #12: Poster Session— Want to go in depth with a comics scholar? On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the PowerPoints of the poster presenters will be available to read in printed “poster books,” and the scholars will be available in this session to discuss their presentations in small-group and one-on-one discussions. Matthew J. Brown (University of California, San Diego) explains how psychologist William Moulton Marston used his creation Wonder Woman to enact his project of emotional re-education about female love-domination. Erica Ash (Henderson State University) explores the circumstances in the 1980s that lead to real-world vigilantes and a violent breed of fictional heroes and anti-heroes. Jonathan Brewer (Henderson State University) demonstrates how comic books can assist students in the study of American history of the 1900s and helps them understand political atmospheres and cultural trends. Thad Allen (Henderson State University) uses modern science and technology to examine whether some of the ways in which superheroes have gained their powers can actually occur. Alex Langley (University of North Texas) assesses addictive behavior in gamers, comics lovers, and other pop culture fanatics. Thomas Sepe (Henderson State University) looks at the history of comic books being used as a venue to communicate political propaganda. Evan Moreno-Davis (University of California, San Diego) analyzes the implicit value system in hero narratives that valorize individual achievement as a force for good. Sabrina Starnaman (UCSD) draws on disability studies to see how the facial disfigurement of figures like the Joker, Two-Face, and Jonah Hex makes meaning beyond the stigmatized existence of the impairment. Carly Cate (Henderson State University) examines how story-driven characters such as Batman have been usurped by commercial creations like Hello Kitty. Ariel Schudson (UCLA) focuses on the Jon Favreau Iron Man film as a palimpsest for the adaptation and re-adaptation of the Iron Man mythos. Law professors Jamie Cooper and William Aceves (California Western School of Law) show how comics are being used in legal education.
Gender Poster Panel: Jillian Burcar (University of Southern California) argues that The Walking Dead series calls for the destruction of the old order by rethinking the ways America conceives of gender and sexuality. Diana Green (Minneapolis College of Art & Design) examines the sexual conundrum of Paul Chadwick’s Concrete, who not only has an active and successful sex life and has birthed a child but remains an active heroic figure.

Batman Poster Panel: Tommy Cash (Henderson State University) asks why the Dark Knight needs a Boy Wonder and finds that the Dynamic Duo exemplify Aristotle’s ideal of the “Friendship of Virtue.” Geri Lawson (CSU-Long Beach) examines how The Dark Knight Returns subverted the dominant voices of 1980s patriotism and the normative rigidity of the superhero’s sexualized body.

Romance Comics Poster Panel: Jarett Kobek (www.kobek.com) explores the effect of the counterculture on romance comics and the tendency of American commercial art to easily commodify even the least likely sources. Jacque Nodell (Super Human Resources) unearths the forgotten romance comics work of artists like Winslow Mortimer, Don Heck, and Jim Steranko who breathed life into the beautiful women that grace the pages of romance comics.

Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference

2:45-3:45 V Pilot Screening and Q&A— Already one of the most talked-about new series of the upcoming television season, catch a special screening of the pilot episode of V, a re-imagining of the groundbreaking miniseries, followed by a Q&A with stars Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Morris Chestnut (The Cave), Joel Gretsch (The 4400), Morena Baccarin(Firefly), and Scott Wolf (Go), along with executive producers Scott Peters (The 4400), Jeffrey Bell (Alias), Steve Pearlman (Related) and Jace Hall (Chadam). From HDFilms in association with Warner Bros. Television, V will premiere midseason on the ABC Television Network. Ballroom 20
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:45-3:45 Sony Pictures: Zombieland and 2012— Sony Pictures previews two exciting new movies at Comic-Con!
Zombieland —What if the Zombies won? Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) has made a habit of running from what scares him. Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) doesn’t have fears. If he did, he’d kick their ever-living ass. In a world overrun by zombies, these two are perfectly evolved survivors. But now, they’re about to stare down the most terrifying prospect of all: each other. Also starring Emma Stone and Abigal Breslin as two sisters who seem to constantly cause even more trouble for our erstwhile heroes. Appearing on stage: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and director Ruben Fleischer.

2012—Director Roland Emmerich has tried to destroy civilization before, but nothing you’ve seen will prepare you for what he has in store for the world in 2012. Never before has a date in history been so significant to so many cultures, so many religions, scientists, and governments. 2012 is an epic adventure about a global cataclysm that brings an end to the world and tells of the heroic struggle of the survivors. Roland will be onstage to reassure us it’s all make-believe…we hope.

Hall H
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:00-4:00 Monster Mash— Because vampires shouldn’t get all the attention, panelists Amber Benson (Death’s Daughter), Alice Henderson (Voracious), Walter Greatshell (Xombies: Apocalypse Blues), S. G. Browne (Breathers: A Zombie’s Lament), Marlene Perez (Dead Is So Last Year), Rob Thurman (The Cal Leandros Novels), and Samantha Sommersby (Forbidden: The Temptation) discuss their use of other monsters in their works, drawn from myth and their own imaginations. Moderator: Maryelizabeth Hart, Mysterious Galaxy. Room 2
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Doug Moench— The prolific comics writer Doug Moench (Moon Knight, Batman, Master of Kung Fu) is a Comic-Con special guest. Doug talks to famed writer/editor Len Wein about his career in comics and beyond. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

3:00-4:30 Scott Shaw!: Oddball Comics— Now regularly seen in the pages of Geek Monthly, cartoonist Scott Shaw! (Captain Carrot and the Final Ark, Bart Simpson Comics) brings back his ever-popular digital slide show featuring “the craziest comic books ever published!” See why Stan Lee said, “Wow, True Believers, I thought I’d seen it all, but Scott Shaw’s hysterically hilarious Oddball Comics is the wildest, wackiest exposé of some of the craziest comic books I’ve ever seen! Or, to put it mildly, Scott’s outrageous opuses are a blast!” Room 7AB
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Fandom

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Seth— Palookaville cartoonist, New Yorker illustrator, and book designer Seth presents an elegant, fascinating, and wry slide show composed of a dozen vignettes, each punctuated by the sound of a bell, that touch on a variety of topics including storytelling, poetry, loneliness, comics, art, friends, youth, aging, and the creative process. Traveling from Canada, Seth is the author of the graphic novels George Sprott (serialized in the New York Times Magazine), Wimbledon Green, Clyde Fans, and It’s a Good Life if You Don’t Weaken, and is the designer of The Complete Peanuts, The Collected Doug Wright, and the John Stanley Library (including Melvin Monster, Nancy, and 13 Going On 18). Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

3:00-4:00 How-To Session: Dave Dorman— Eisner Award–winning illustrator Dave Dorman has been doing cover art, packaging art, fine art, toy design, and concept art for the past 25 years. His first cover was for Heavy Metal magazine, and since that time, he has expanded into artwork for licensed properties including Star Wars, Alien, Predator, Alien vs. Predator, Batman, Spider-Man, G.I. Joe, The Green Hornet, Magic: The Gathering, World of Warcraft, Battlestar Galactica, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and many more. The fans voted him the “#1 Star Wars Artist of All Time,” and he is a proud honorary member of the 501st Midwest Garrison. Room 18
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Little Lulu Fan Group— One of the most memorable kids’ comics ever created, Little Lulu has generated a fan following around the world. Learn more about this classic comics character and the renewed interest in other works of the great John Stanley, and join in for the annual reading of a Golden Age Little Lulu story. All are welcome! Room 24A
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Fandom

3:00-4:00 Marv Wolfman Writing Seminar— Comics writer and editor Marv Wolfman has been conducting his acclaimed writing seminar at Comic-Con International as well as across the world for many years. He’ll discuss how to create characters, stories, plots and much more. You need to attend if you are interested in writing either professionally or even just for fun. Q&A session! Room 30CDE
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

3:15-4:15 Heroes: Exclusive First Look at “Redemption” and Q&A with Tim Kring and Castmembers— Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an amazing roller coaster ride as Heroes debuts a trailer for “Volume 5: Redemption.” Participate in a Q&A session with creator Tim Kring and some of the cast. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Superheroes | Television | Webcomics

3:30-4:30 Wildstorm: This is WildStorm!— Get the inside scoop on what’s upcoming with DC’s wildest imprint from VP Hank Kanalz, senior editor Ben Abernathy, and creators Fiona Staples (North 40, Trick ‘r Treat), Kurt Busiek (Astro City), Adam Beechen (Killapalooza), Christos Gage (Wildcats, Dante’s Inferno), Darrick Robertson (Prototype), David Tischman (Red Herring), Liam Sharp (Gears of War), Jason Craig (Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash), Brian Wood, Rebecca Isaacs, and more! Find out about what’s new in the WildStorm Universe! There will be tons of info and sneak peeks for Wildcats, The Authority, Gears of War, World of Warcraft, Ex Machina, and much, much more! Room 4
Categories: Comic Books

3:30-4:30 Entertainment Weekly: Totally Lost with Doc Jensen and Dan Snierson— EW’s Jeff “Doc” Jensen and Dan “Dan” Snierson prep you for Lost’s final season with their dubious insights, crazy theories, and oddball tomfoolery. Surprises? Maybe. Pig E.? Let’s hope not. Free cookies? No. Room 5AB
Categories: Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 Save South Park One Snowball at a Time— South Park has a new video game coming out this fall that’s chock full of comic violence and foul language, and it’s being made by Microsoft, that crazy little band of outlaws who brought you hilarious products like Microsoft SQL Server Management Express 2008 Service Pack 1. Is this a sign of the apocalypse? Come find out as South Park Studios and Microsoft Game Studios talk about what it’s like sharing the same bed! Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Fandom | Games | Television

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Ray Bradbury— The legendary fantasy and science fiction writer is once again a Comic-Con special guest, as he was for the very first show in 1970. Ray Bradbury will discuss his new books, plays, and other projects with his long-time friend, writer and producer Arnold Kunert, and biographer Sam Weller. Room 6BCF
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day— In the sequel to the cult classic The Boondock Saints, director Troy Duffy brings back Sean Patrick Flanery (Suicide Kings, Powder), Norman Reedus (American Gangster, Blade 2), and Billy Connolly (The Last Samurai) and introduces Carlo Berardinucci, Clifton Collins Jr. (Star Trek, Crank 2) as a new partner-in-crime, and Julie Benz (Rambo, Punisher 2, Saw) as the sexy FBI operative who is hot on their trail. Join Troy and the cast for a panel discussion about the new film and the world premiere of the trailer. Room 6DE
Categories: Movies

3:30-4:30 SLG Publishing— SLG Supreme Commander Dan Vado shows trailers of upcoming comic book and graphic novel projects including the Winchester series (a horror/historical fiction piece about gun heiress Sarah Winchester and her bizarre mansion), Pinocchio the Vampire Slayer, and a host of other projects. Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:30-4:30 Costume Designers: Designing for Feature Films— Characters created by writers and comic book illustrators are made real for the screen via the artistry of costume designers. Meet the women and men who are the costume designers on this year’s blockbuster films. Panel moderator Susan Nininger, costume designer and board member of the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, is joined by costume designers Sanja Hays (The Mummy 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), Ellen Mirojnick (G.I. Joe), Mary Vogt (Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer), Rita Ryack (Hairspray), and Ha Nguyen (Priest). Room 30AB
Categories: Costuming | Movies

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Leonard Starr— Batton Lash and Joe Jusko (and perhaps a mystery guest or two) interview Comic-Con special guest Leonard Starr (Mary Perkins On Stage, Annie, Kelly Green, Thundercats, and Golden/Silver Age comics artist) about his career spanning over 50 years in comic books, comic strips, and television. This Starr-filled panel promises to be both insightful and engaging. Room 2
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Hope Larson— Cartoonist and Comic-Con special guest Hope Larson (Chiggers) and author Cecil Castellucci (The P.L.A.I.N. Janes series) discuss Larson’s career, her upcoming graphic novel Mercury, and the joys and frustrations of making comics for a young adult audience. Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 We Control The Vertical: Writing and Producing For Television— Some of TV’s most talented writers and show runners discuss the writing and production of your favorite television shows, past and present, and share amusing anecdotes from the television trenches. Starring Dave Simkins (Warehouse 13, Blade: The TV Series, Dresden Files), Javier Grillo-Marxuach (The Middleman, Day One), Charles Murray (V, Criminal Minds, Castle), Sarah Watson (The Unknowns, Parenthood), Gabrielle Stanton (Vampire Diaries, Moonlight), Steve Kriozere (NCIS, Dead & Deader, V.I.P.), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars, The Batman), Matthew Federman (Human Target, Jericho), and Ashley E. Miller (Fringe, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles). Moderated by Mark A. Altman (Free Enterprise, Castle). Room 8
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 How-To Session: Arthur Suydam— Award-winning artist Arthur Suydam’s meteoric rise to superstardom for his work for the smash hit series Marvel Zombies broke records, immediately placing the artist in the category of comic legends. In 2007 and 2008 Suydam’s art graced the covers of Marvel Zombies Dead Days, Marvel Zombies #2 and #3, Wolverine, Fantastic Four, The Incredible Herc, X-men, Ghost Rider, Thor, Spider-Girl, and more. Arthur’s session will cover how to break down an image for painting, the thumbnail process, and painting for comic books. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

4:00-5:00 Fringe Screening and Q&A— Fringe cast members Anna Torv (upcoming The Pacific), Josh Jackson (Shutter), and John Noble (The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King) appear with consulting producers Alex Kurtzman and Robert Orci (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) and executive producers Jeff Pinkner (Lost) and J. H. Wyman (Keen Eddie) for a Q&A with fans and an exclusive video presentation. Join the discussion of this critically acclaimed thriller, which explores the ever-blurring line between science fiction and reality, where hybrid monsters tear through sewers, thieves walk through walls and portals open to worlds unknown. From Bad Robot Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Fringe airs Thursdays at 9:00 PM ET/PT this fall on FOX, premiering September 17. Fringe: The Complete First Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray Hi Def September 8. Ballroom 20
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:00-5:00 Building Your Art Portfolio— Moderated by Comics Experience founder Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Annihilation) and featuring the expert advice of comic creators Chris Bachalo (X-Men, Generation X), Todd Nauck (Spider-Man, Young Justice), Robert Atkins (G.I. Joe), C. B. Cebulski (Marvel Talent Coordinator), and Zander Cannon (Top 10), this panel covers everything an aspiring comics artist needs to know about building a portfolio and getting his or her first gig. Join the discussion and ask your questions at the end! Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

4:00-5:00 Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment: Iron Man 2— Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the sequel to the blockbuster film based on the legendary Marvel superhero Iron Man. Directed by Jon Favreau, Iron Man 2 stars Robert Downey Jr. Joining Downey in the cast are Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Jon Favreau, Clark Gregg, John Slattery, Mickey Rourke, and Samuel L. Jackson. Hall H
Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Superheroes

4:30-5:30 Mike Mignola: Hellboy— The creator of Hellboy talks about upcoming projects and what’s next for the Beast of the Apocalypse. Mike Mignola and his long-suffering editor Scott Allie provide an overview of the coming year and an always frank Q&A session! Room 4
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Games | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

4:30-5:30 Introducing the World’s First Digi-Novel: Level 26: Dark Origins— With his first major project since CSI, visionary creator and director Anthony E. Zuiker (creator, CSI), introduces the Digi-Novel, an industry redefining multiplatform media property that will revolutionize modern storytelling by allowing readers to move seamlessly from books to film to the web—an unprecedented undertaking in the publishing industry. Zuiker, designer Marc Ecko (founder, Ecko Enterprises), web creators Greg Goodfried and Miles Beckett (co-creators, lonelygirl15), and actors Daniel Buran (CSI) and Michael Ironside (Terminator Salvation) offer a preview presentation and Q&A session! Room 5AB
Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

4:30-5:30 Top Cow: Comics & Multimedia— Marc Silvestri (Dark Avengers/Uncanny X-Men: Utopia), Matt Hawkins (president of Top Cow), and Filip Sablik (publisher of Top Cow) hit you with a hurricane of exciting news and announcements from comics, film, television, anime, and much more! Joining them will be Milo Ventimiglia (Heroes, Berserker) and Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead)! Don’t miss major announcements regarding the Witchblade feature film, Witchblade anime, and Darkness video game! Plus a major casting announcement for The Darkness film and a special surprise guest or two! Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Games | Movies | Superheroes | Television

4:30-5:30 Vanguard Films: Emo Boy— Vanguard Films will announce its slate of new projects including Emo Boy, the big screen adaptation of Stephen Emond’s SLG graphic novel, with a special Q&A with the movie’s director, Kyle Newman (Fanboys). Other projects to be announced include Illegal Aliens, a new graphic novel/movie franchise being produced by Vanguard and Platinum Comics, and Alien Band, an animated feature set to go into production in the fall of 2009. A preview will also be shown from Vanguard’s upcoming film Space Chimps 3D. Room 10
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies

4:30-5:30 Love is in the Air: LGBT Romance Comics— Romance comics, once a staple of the comics industry but now considered campy curiosities, have inspired a new generation that has created their own take on matters of the heart while moving beyond the boy-girl soap operas of yesteryear. Moderator Charles “Zan” Christensen (Mark of Aeacus) and panelists Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise), Tim Fish (Cavalcade of Boys), Mari Morimoto (manga translator of Naruto), Colleen Coover (X-Men: First Class), Steve MacIsaac (Shirtlifter), and Michelle Nolan (Love on the Racks: A History of American Romance Comics) discuss the new LGBT romance comics. Room 30AB
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books

4:45-5:45 Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski— Triple Eisner-nominated and Comic-Con special guest J. Michael Straczynski presents a freewheeling discussion about his work in comics (Brave and the Bold, Thor, Amazing Spider-Man), television (Babylon 5), movies (Changeling, Ninja Assassin, Forbidden Planet, Lensman and more) and anything else that comes to mind. Every year JMS’s talks are a focus of heated conversation, and that’s just between us and law enforcement when they show up midway through… Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Television | Writers & Writing

4:45-5:55 Human Target Pilot Screening and Q&A— Join Human Target stars Mark Valley (Fringe), Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies) and Jackie Earle Haley (Watchmen), the show’s executive producers Jon Steinberg (Jericho), Brad Kern (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman) and Peter Johnson (Supernatural: Origins Comic Book Series), and co-creator of the original Human Target comic, Len Wein (Swamp Thing), for an exclusive Q&A and a screening of the highly anticipated pilot based on the popular DC Comics title about a mysterious agent for hire who assumes different identities, literally becoming a human target on behalf of his clients. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Wonderland Sound and Vision, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Television, Human Target will air Wednesdays at 9:00 pm ET/PT beginning in January 2010 on FOX. Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:45-5:45 Vertigo Voices: The Fables Forum— It’s the Fables Forum, San Diego style! Come armed with your best questions and find out everything you want to know about Fables. Featuring Vertigo group editor Shelly Bond and the creators behind Fables, Jack of Fables, House of Mystery: Bill Willingham, Mark Buckingham, Matthew Sturges, Steve Leialoha, Lee Loughridge, Shawn McManus, Andrew Pepoy, Chris Roberson, Chrissie Zullo, and Todd Klein. Room 6DE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 Comic-Con: El Cortez Memories— People who’ve been attending Comic-Con since its early days look back most fondly at the shows held at El Cortez Hotel in the 1970s. What made it special? Those who were there can tell you. And if you were there, come along to reminisce! Panelists include Sergio Aragonés, Mark Evanier, Mike Friedrich, George Clayton Johnson, Jack Katz, Lee Marrs, Mike Royer, and William Stout, with David Scroggy as moderator. Room 2
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Fandom

5:00-6:00 What Is an Animated Film?— Many people view animation as a genre. Like “westerns” and “science fiction,” animation has come to follow a few tightly defined sets of conventions—anime, funny animal, and fairy tales form the basis of most animated cartoons. But animation is much more than just that. It is a medium capable of expressing a wide range of styles and stories. In this screening and talk, Stephen Worth, director of the ASIFA-Hollywood Animation Archive, presents examples of animated films that don’t follow the established formulas—films that experiment with technique and storytelling to push the envelope of the definition of animation. Room 3
Categories: Animation | Movies | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 Graphic Novels: Sense of History— There’s a wonderful world of history awaiting you in numerous graphic novels available now. Whether it be real life stories adapting historical events to the comics form or fiction taking place in a specific time, these practitioners of the historical graphic novel are all presenting work at the top of their form. Moderator Randy Duncan (co-chair of the Comics Arts Conference) talks to Rick Geary (Treasury of XX Century Murder: Famous Players), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Jason Lutes (Berlin), Chris Schweizer (Crogan’s Vengeance), and Eric Shanower (Age of Bronze) about their individual takes on history. Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

5:00-6:00 How-To Session: David Finch— Artist David Finch got his start at Top Cow and Image comics more than 15 years ago. Successful books there—including his creator-owned Aphrodite IX—set him up for the incredible success he received on reaching Marvel Comics in 2001. After a 15-issue run on Ultimate X-Men with Brian Bendis, Finch made his permanent mark on the Marvel Universe with Avengers, Avengers Disassembled, and New Avengers. He is currently finishing up the smash hit Ultimatum, written by Jeph Loeb. David will discuss the creative process of comics and how to compose and lay out a comic book page from a script page. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 Adventures in Voice Acting Workshop— Here’s an opportunity for attendees interested in the voice-acting profession to get firsthand advice and experience from the pros in an intimate yet dynamic and exciting setting. Learn directly from some of the best voice actors and directors in the world. This one-hour class covers practical dubbing techniques, important issues such as studio protocol, and what to expect at your first audition. You’ll also get some inside information on how to break in and what the industry is really like. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans and aspiring voice actors to interact with some of the most accomplished members of the industry. Panelists include Michele Rodriguez (Lost), Steve Blum (Wolverine), Lance Henriksen (Aliens), and special surprise guests. Room 30CDE
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

5:15-6:15 True Blood Panel and Q&A session— Just as it seemed things were settling down in the backwoods Louisiana town of Bon Temps, deadly new twists and evil forces have begun to threaten Sookie Stackhouse and everyone around her. Mixing romance, suspense, mystery, and humor, True Blood kicked off its 12-episode second season on June 14 on HBO. The series, which earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Television Series—Drama for its debut season, follows the romance between waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin, the X-Men films; Golden Globe-winner for True Blood season one; Oscar-winner for The Piano), who can hear people’s thoughts, and her soul mate, 173-year-old vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer, The Starter Wife). Alan Ball (creator of the Emmy-winning HBO series Six Feet Under) created and serves as executive producer of the series, which is based on the best-selling Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. The series also features Nelsan Ellis (The Soloist) as Lafayette Reynolds, Rutina Wesley (How She Move) as Tara Thornton; Sam Trammell (Medium, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) as Sam Merlotte; Michelle Forbes (In Treatment, Battlestar Galactica) as Maryann Forrester; Alexander Skarsgård (Generation Kill) as Eric Northman and Deborah Ann Woll (The Mentalist) as Jessica Hamby. Moderated by Kate Hahn of TV Guide. Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

5:15-6:45 Kevin Smith— Direct from New York City, where he’s directing the new Warner Bros. film A Couple of Dicks starring Bruce Willis, Seann William Scott, and Tracy Morgan, Kevin Smith returns to the Hall H stage for his annual report to the masses. And remember: he flew in just for YOU. Hall H
Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Del Rey Manga…& Del Rey Comics!— Join the team for the Del Rey Happy Funtime Hullabaloo—Comic-Con 2009 edition! Hear about the newest manga acquisitions from Japan, along with other exciting new licenses and partnerships. Also, hear directly from some of the masterminds behind Del Rey Comics—a fun, new venture that’s launching with the comics adaptation of Stephen King and Peter Straub’s bestselling novel The Talisman. Get those questions ready now, and Dallas Middaugh (associate publisher), Ali Kokmen (marketing manager), Mutsumi Miyazaki (director of licensing and acquisitions), Tricia Narwani (Del Rey editorial), and Betsy Mitchell (editor-in-chief) will do their best to answer and/or dodge them! Room 4
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Archaia: New Titles— Come hear about the great titles Archaia has in store, including Awakening (with writer Nick Tapalansky and artist Alex Eckman-Lawn), The Killer (with writer Matz), and The God Machine (with creator Chandra Free). Then: You’ve watched him for three seasons on NBC’s Heroes playing Sylar and on the big screen as Spock in the new Star Trek movie, but what do actor Zachary Quinto and his colleagues at media production company Before the Door Pictures have to do with Archaia? Find out exclusively at this panel, which will feature Quinto, Corey Moosa and Neal Dodson of Before the Door Pictures, plus appearances by top-secret special guests with additional announcements! Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Movies

5:30-6:30 American Original: Birth of an Original— Jeff Katz (Booster Gold, Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash), president and founder of American Original, Marc Silvestri (Dark Avengers/Uncanny X-Men: Utopia), and Matt Hawkins (president of Top Cow) give you the 411 on the genesis of their “Nerd Machine”! Find out what’s coming from American Original first, and get introduced to their mix of talent from a spectrum of comics, film, television, sports entertainment, and animation! Plus enough surprise guests to fill a three-ring circus! Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Made for Mobile: Creating Comics for the iPhone and the Big Small Screen— With the advent of bigger screens and increased bandwidth, mobile comics are now poised to make the creative and economic leap to become a major force in the universe of comics. Uclick, the top name in mobile comics, hosts a panel of experts in creation and distribution in the medium. Learn how existing comics are being adapted and new comics are being created specifically for this next generation of mobile devices. Get important information from Uclick on their open call for new and established creators designing comics specifically for mobile devices. Panelists include Douglas Edwards (president and CEO of Uclick, LLC), Rantz A. Hosely (CEO of LongBox, Inc.), Shannon Wheeler (Too Much Coffee Man), and Shena Wolf (asset manager for Uclick). Moderated by Peter Maresca of Uclick and Sunday Press Books. Room 10
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Webcomics

5:30-6:30 Sideshow Collectibles— Creative director Tom Gilliland and key staff offer a presentation of new products and licensing announcements, along with the opportunity to speak directly with the Sideshow team in a Q&A session! Room 30AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles

5:30-6:30 Gears of War: The Gearsiverse— Epic Games design director Cliff Bleszinski, Gears of War movie scriptwriter Chris Morgan, Gears of War comic book author and Gears of War 2 scriptwriter Joshua Ortega, and Gears of War movie director Len Wiseman present a preview of what’s next in the 11 million–selling Gears of War franchise. Get in on all the action, including an exclusive sneak peek at the deleted scene from Gears of War 2: All Fronts Collection as well as an insider’s glimpse into the highly anticipated Gears of War motion picture. Whether you play the games, read the books, or have a Crimson Omen tattoo, this star-studded meeting of the minds is too exciting to miss! Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Comic Books | Games | Movies | Writers & Writing

5:55-7:00 The Vampire Diaries Pilot Screening and Q&A— The Vampire Diaries stars Nina Dobrev (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Paul Wesley (Killer Movie), and Ian Somerhalder (Lost) appear with executive producer/writer Kevin Williamson (Scream), writer Julie Plec (Kyle XY), and executive producer Bob Levy (Gossip Girl), as the series makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the much-talked-about pilot, followed by a Q&A. This edgy and romantic new drama, in which two vampire brothers—one good, one evil—are at war for the soul of one girl, is based upon the bestselling book series of the same name. Lynette Rice of Entertainment Weekly moderates. From Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Vampire Diaries airs Thursdays at 8:00 PM ET/PT this fall on The CW, premiering September 10. Room 6BCF
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

6:00-7:00 Fewdio’s Door to Nightmare House— The filmmaking mavericks collectively know as Fewdio (Marshall Carr, John Crye, Drew Daywalt, Paul Hungerford, David Schneider, Todd Sharp, and Kirk B. R. Woller) have built a brand and grown a devoted following with their horror anthology web series, Nightmare House. Join them as they screen selected films from the series and discuss all aspects of their unique process and philosophy in an open Q&A session. Room 2
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies

6:00-7:00 Harvey Kurtzman/MAD— The creator of MAD and Playboy’s “Little Annie Fanny,” Harvey Kurtzman was called “one of the most important figures in postwar America” by the New York Times. Kurtzman discovered Robert Crumb and gave Gloria Steinem her first job in publishing. Terry Gilliam started at Kurtzman’s side, met an unknown John Cleese in the process, and the genesis of Monty Python took place. Art Speigelman has said that he owes his career to Kurtzman. And Kurtzman is one of Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner’s favorite artists. Harvey was an astonishingly talented and influential artist, writer, editor, and satirist without whom treasures such as Saturday Night Live, Airplane!, and The Simpsons may never have been conceived. This panel promises to be a lively discussion about the life and work of “The MAD Genius of Comics,” led by comics historian Mark Evanier and featuring Kurtzman’s daughter, Nellie Kurtzman; the author of the just released The Art of Harvey Kurtzman the MAD Genius of Comics, Dennis Kitchen; Paul Levitz (president/publisher of DC Comics/MAD); William Stout (a colleague of Kurtzman who worked on “Little Annie Fanny”); and Charles Kochman (executive editor of Abrams ComicArts). Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Tributes

6:00-7:15 Adult Swim Development: The Venture Bros. Panel— Fans will get the chance to hear from the Adult Swim development team and get a first look at upcoming Adult Swim programming. Nick Weidenfeld, director of development, and Matt Harrigan, executive producer/series writer, will give highlights of what’s in the tube for fall 2009. Then Venture Bros. co-creators Jackson Publick and Doc Hammer, James Urbaniak (voice of Dr. Venture) and Mike Sinterniklaas (voice of Dean Venture), will also be on hand to discuss the hit series The Venture Bros. and give fans insight into its future. Vice president of production for Adult Swim Keith Crofford moderates. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Television

6:00-7:30 Gays in Comics: Year 22!— Now in its third decade at Comic-Con, the long-running “Gays in Comics” panel presents an all-star look at the diversity in the comics world today. The mainstream companies DC and Marvel are both front-lining gay characters such as Batwoman and Northstar, as well as top-level gay or gay-friendly creators. And smaller independent publishers and creators are publishing unequivocal content spotlighting gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered characters, to the cheers of the thousands of fans who are out of the comic book closet. This top-level panel of GLBT and straight creators will give amazing insights and glimpses of surprises to come! Joining founding moderator Andy Mangels (best-selling author of Star Trek novels and Iron Man: Beneath The Armor) and Greg Rucka, the acclaimed author of Detective Comics (featuring the lesbian Batwoman and The Question); Phil Jimenez, artist of Astonishing X-Men and Amazing Spider-Man; Gail Simone, the celebrated writer of Wonder Woman and the sexually diverse Secret Six; Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, the GLAAD-winning writer of Marvel’s Divas and Stephen King’s The Stand and HBO’s smash hit polyamorous drama Big Love; Peter David, writer of Fallen Angel and lots of novels; Ed Luce, the writer/artist of the Bear-centric Wuvable Oaf and small-press retailer behind San Francisco’s cutting edge Goteblüd comic and zine store; and small press and Internet sensation writer/artist Sina Grace, whose Books with Pictures and illustrated novel Cedric Hollows in Dial M for Magic are getting rave reviews online and from Hollywood personalities! Plus, there’s always a surprise panelist or two. Afterward, stick around for the hour-long gay comics fan mixer/social, hosted by Prism Comics, with prizes and surprise special guests! Room 6DE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Writers & Writing

6:00-7:00 Roman Dirge on Lenore— Roman Dirge (Lenore Noogies) and Alex Albrecht (Diggnation/The Totally Rad Show) share a one-on-one interview about the launch of the wonderful new Lenore comic, the remastered Lenore graphic novel series, and what Roman has in store in his future publishing program with Titan Books. Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Humor & Satire | Kids

6:00-7:00 Digital Color Styles & FX— Brian Miller (Booster Gold) and Kristy Miller (Hi-Fi Color for Comics) demonstrate digital color styles for superhero, alternative, manga, and web comics. Learn tips, tricks, and techniques for creating stunning digital color and special effects. Plus a behind-the-scenes look at Hi-Fi’s upcoming projects! Room 30CDE
Categories: Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Webcomics

6:30-7:30 Bridging Cultures Through Popular Media— While movies, games, and comic books are a great source of entertainment, the transformational power of story can also be used to break down misunderstandings between cultures, races, and genders. Learn how the panelists are using popular forms of media to provide a new form of diplomatic dialogue and open up channels of communication that have yet to be fully explored. Actor Faran Tahir (Star Trek, Iron Man), game designer Neal Hallford (Betrayal at Krondor, Dungeon Siege, X-Life: Driven), animated series executive producer Subniv Babuta (The 99), and comics and animated series script editor Stan Berkowitz (The 99, Justice League, Batman Beyond) talk about how popular culture can play a key role in saving the world. Moderated by Joseph D. Di Lella. Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Games | Movies | Television

6:30-7:30 Black Dynamite— He’s super cool and he knows kung-fu! When “The Man” murders his brother and floods the ghetto with adulterated malt liquor, Black Dynamite is the one hero willing to fight all the way from the blood-soaked city streets to the hallowed halls of the Honky House. Michael Jai White (The Dark Knight) stars as Black Dynamite, a gun toting, nunchuck-wielding ladies’ man and soul brother. Director and writer Scott Sanders (Think as Thieves) is joined by cast members including Arsenio Hall, Tommy Davidson (In Living Color), Byron Minns (Undisputed), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (I am Legend), moderator Elvis Mitchell, and more! Room 5AB
Categories: Movies | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 City of Heroes: Five Years and Going Strong: How to Keep Your MMO Alive and Kickin’!— Sit down with Brian Clayton (GM/executive producer), Matt Miller (lead designer), Vince D’Amelio (lead engineer), and Joe Morrissey (senior designer), some of the masterminds behind the award-winning MMO, City of Heroes. Hear tales of frustration and success from their five-year journey. Discover how your favorite content became part of the game. Uncover the secrets of how to keep an MMO vibrant in an ever-changing marketplace. Room 7AB
Categories: Games | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 From Cave Art to Superheroes: Comic Books and Social Commentary— Mark S. Zaid, Esq., owner of EsquireComics.com, a co-founder of the Network of Disclosure, and an advisor to the Overstreet Comic Book Price and Grading Guides, presents an educational and humorous interactive visual arts presentation tracing the historical creation and development of comic books and their characters, focusing particularly on how comics addressed social issues of the day (including such topics as war, sex, civil rights, women’s liberation, politics, censorship, violence, and terrorism). Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom

6:30-7:30 Where Does He Get Those Wonderful Toys? Action Figure Licensing— Are retro licenses hotter than new ones? Are video game properties the new cash cow? The comic book direct market, mail order, and the Internet have all changed where and how you can find your favorite toys. Does Wal-Mart control which characters get made? Can a license without a media tie-in make it in today’s crowded market? Come ask any burning question you’ve ever had about the action figure business as some of the top names in the industry sit down together—as they only do once a year at Comic-Con—and talk toys. Panelists include Georg Brewer (DC Direct), Jesse Falcon (Marvel Comics), Randy Falk (NECA), Scott Neitlich (Mattel), and Frank Sopuit (Kotobukiya). Moderated by Daniel “JuliusMarx” Pickett of ActionFigureInsider.com. Room 30AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles

6:30-8:00 Troma Roast— In Tromaville, you don’t just roast ‘em, you nuke ‘em! Join Tromaster of Ceremonies Trey Parker (South Park) for this no-holds-barred roast of Troma Studios president Lloyd Kaufman, featuring past and present BFFs: Stan Lee (Spider-man, Fantastic Four, Daredevil, Hulk), Brian Pulido (Lady Death, Evil Ernie) Richard Saperstein (Planet Terror, John Q, Se7en), James Gunn (Scooby Doo, Dawn of the Dead, Slither) Batton Lash (Supernatural Law) Steven Paul (Ghost Rider, Baby Geniuses), Penelope Spheeris (Decline of Western Civilization, Wayne’s World), Ron Jeremy (Boondock Saints, Studio 54, Killing Zoe), Joe Lynch (His Name Was Jason: 30 Years of Friday the 13th), Mick Garris (Stephen King’s The Stand, Sleepwalkers), Chad Gilbert (lead guitarist, New Found Glory), John Rieber (G4 senior VP), Jean Prewitt (Independent Film Alliance), Matt Stone (South Park), Terry Stewart (president, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame), and more! What a way to celebrate 35 years of Reel Independence with Troma Entertainment! Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Movies

Nighttime Programs

7:00-8:00 Da Jammies— FarCor Studios Ralph Farquhar (executive producer), Dwayne Corbitt (executive producer), and creators Aulsondro Novelist Hamilton and William Dolla Chapman II of Toon Farm, LLC unveil Da Jammies, a new 3D animated music sitcom. The creator of such Disney hits as The Proud Family and Wendy Wu: Princess Warrior is back in the animation game with this groundbreaking show featuring hip-hop dances, music, and fashion. Join the producers, cast, and creative team for a sneak peek presentation of the new series and Q&A session moderated by Lil JJ of Just Jordan and the TBS series Men of a Certain Age. Room 8
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television

7:15-9:15 CBLDF Benefit Auction— This is the big one! Support Free Speech and walk away with incredible original art at this year’s CBLDF Auction! Highlights include original art by Mike Mignola, Dave Gibbons, Jill Thompson, Charles Vess, Mike Deodato, Eric Powell, Neil Gaiman, and many, many more. Stop by CBLDF’s booth #1920 for a complete auction list. All proceeds from this auction will benefit the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund! Room 2
Categories: Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comic Books | Nighttime Programming

7:15-8:15 Myth Busters Q&A and Sneak Peeks— The series called “the best science program on television” by the New York Times returns for its second year at Comic-Con. Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage are joined by Tory Belleci and Grant Imahara to discuss their offbeat series that uses science to determine the truth behind urban legends. Adam, Jamie, Grant and Tory will answer questions and share behind-the-scenes stories and showcase world premiere sneak peeks of upcoming myths. MythBusters airs Wednesdays at 9:00 PM E/P on Discovery Channel. Room 6BCF
Categories: Fandom | Nighttime Programming | Television

7:30-8:30 Gaia Online Panel and Social— Meet the staff of Gaia Online as they discuss the latest improvements to your favorite virtual world and expect great fun and prizes at the following Q&A session. Room 5AB
Categories: Fandom | Nighttime Programming

7:30-8:30 Gays in Comics Mixer— Prism Comics, the nonprofit organization that supports gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered comics, creators, and readers invites you to mingle with comics fans and creators. Plus stay for the special drawing of a “Comics Gift Basket” and bid on some hot comics items! Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

7:30-10:00 Torchwood/Doctor Who Screenings—
Torchwood: Children of Earth, an epic television event from BBC America’s highest rated series, has the Torchwood team facing their fiercest threat to date—one that throws the future of Torchwood and the entire human race spiraling into danger. The finale finds Torchwood defenseless and Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) standing alone, as the final sanction begins. As violence erupts and the world descends into anarchy, an ordinary housing estate becomes a battleground where the future of the human race will be decided. Torchwood: Children of Earth hits stores on Blu-ray and DVD July 28, 2009.

In the first of the final four specials from Russell T Davies and starring David Tennant, Doctor Who: Planet of the Dead, finds the Doctor trapped on a desert alien planet with a red double-decker bus but no Tardis. He soon discovers the mysterious planet holds terrifying secrets hidden in the sand and is forced to team up with a mysterious, aristocratic thief, Lady Christina (Michelle Ryan, Bionic Woman), to get back to Earth. But time is running out, as the deadly Swarm gets closer. This is the first Time Lord adventure to be shot in HD. Doctor Who: Planet of the Dead hits stores on Blu-ray and DVD July 28, 2009
Room 6DE
Categories: Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

7:30-8:30 Atom.com: World Premiere of Legend of Neil, Season 2— Atom.com has teamed up with Sandeep Parikh (The Guild) for a second season of the popular web series. See the first public screening of episodes from the series and stay for a discussion with Sandeep, series star Tony Janning, and everyone’s favorite fairy Felicia Day (The Guild)! Moderated by Chris Albrecht, co-editor of NewTeeVee.com. Room 7AB
Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

8:00-9:00 Showtime: Weeds— If you are addicted to Weeds, this is the panel you don’t want to miss! Find out everything you want to know with a Q&A and interview with the series creator and its stars! Featured panelists include Jenji Kohan (creator/executive producer), Hunter Parrish (Silas), Justin Kirk (Andy), and other cast members. Weeds airs on Mondays at 10:00 pm on Showtime. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television

8:30-12:15 Watchmen: Director’s Cut—Live with Zack Snyder! Plus Sneak Peek of Batman: Arkham Asylum with Mark Hamill & Kevin Conroy— Get the ultimate inside track on two landmark Warner Bros. releases with the world premiere screening of Watchmen: Director’s Cut and a first-look panel for the breakout Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment game Batman: Arkham Asylum. The festivities will open with a Batman: Arkham Asylum panel led by the benchmark voices of Batman and the Joker, Kevin Conroy (Batman: The Animated Series) and Mark Hamill (Star Wars), as well as award-winning writer Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series). Then Watchmen director Zack Snyder, legendary illustrator Dave Gibbons and actor Jackie Earle Haley discuss the nuances of the film’s Director’s Cut— which hit stores on July 21. And for the pièce de résistance, Snyder will host a BD Live Community event—providing a real-time, in-person director’s commentary for Comic-Con attendees (and BD Live viewers at home) as the film rolls. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions of Snyder via computer kiosks within the room, making for an entirely interactive viewing experience. Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic Books | Games | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

8:30-9:30 Atom.com, Lucasfilm, and Olivia Munn talk Star Wars Fan Movies— Olivia Munn (G4’s Attack of the Show) joins Atom.com, Lucasfilm, and top fan filmmakers to discuss 2009’s newly anointed Fan Movie Challenge winners and new developments in fan filmmaking. Get a sneak preview of the highly anticipated sequel, Star Wars Gangsta Rap: Chronicles, and hear about Olivia’s new fan film project (hint: it could be yours). Also joining the panel will be former George Lucas Selects Award winners Trey Stokes (Pink Five), Robert Reeves (Padme), and Chris Crawford (Star Wars Gangsta Rap). Moderated by Chris Albrecht, co-editor of NewTeeVee.com. Room 7AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

8:45-11:45 HBO’s True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Fabulous original and re-created costumes crafted by our talented attendees appear on stage before an audience of thousands, with impressive awards and cash prizes bestowed to those judged most outstanding. Doors will open for audience seating at 8:15 PM, but the line will start much earlier! Tickets will be required for seating and will be given out free to those lining up near Ballroom 20 beginning at 4:30 PM. Masters of Ceremony are writers/artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio of Studio Foglio, and halftime entertainment will feature special advance movie previews, behind-the-scenes films, and more. (Overflow seating available in Rooms 5AB, 6A and in the Sails Pavilion.) Ballroom 20
Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Comic Books | Costuming | Fandom | Movies | Television

8:45-1:30 Masquerade Party— Join your friends in the Convention Center’s beautiful Sails Pavilion to party the night away while the Masquerade plays on the big screen! Sails Pavilion
Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

9:30-11:30 Pander Brothers of Grendel Fame Screen Debut Feature Film, Selfless— Awarded Best Feature at the BendFilm Fest and Best Supporting Actor (Mo Gallini), Selfless is a psychological thriller about an architect whose life is terrorized by a spiteful identity thief. Director/co-writer Jacob Pander (Accelerate, Grendel) and producer/co-writer Arnold Pander (Tasty Bullet, Grendel), actor Mo Gallini (2 Fast 2 Furious, Mr. & Mrs. Smith), and film critic David Walker (Badazz MoFo) are on hand for this special advanced screening and panel Q&A! Room 7AB
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Nighttime Programming

10:00-12:00 Give ‘Em Hell Malone Screening and Panel— Catch an exclusive early screening of the upcoming noir-action film Give ‘Em Hell Malone, followed by a Q&A with stars Thomas Jane (The Punisher) and Chris Yen, along with director Russell Mulcahy (Highlander) and writer Mark Hosack. Room 6DE
Categories: Movies | Nighttime Programming

San Diego Comic-Con has released the schedule for the Wednesday the 22nd and Thursday the 23rd events. We have posted the full schedule below:

SPECIAL PREVIEW NIGHT PROGRAMMING
Wednesday, July 22
Last changed: Thu, Jul 9, 11:46am

6:00-9:00 Special Sneak Peek Pilot Screenings— Comic-Con and Warner Bros. Television proudly present exclusive pilot premiere screenings of some of the most buzzed-about new TV series of the 2009–2010 season—Human Target, V, and The Vampire Diaries—as well as an exclusive preview trailer for additional upcoming shows.
Based upon the popular DC Comics title and starring Mark Valley (Fringe), Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies), and Jackie Earle Haley (Watchmen), the highly anticipated Human Target is an action-packed thrill ride about a mysterious private contractor who will stop at nothing, even if it literally means becoming a human target, to keep his clients alive. Executive produced by McG (Terminator Salvation), Jonathan Steinberg (Jericho), Brad Kern (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman), Kevin Hooks (Prison Break), and Peter Johnson (Supernatural), the series is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Wonderland Sound and Vision, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Television. Human Target will air Wednesdays at 9:00 PM ET/PT on FOX, beginning in January.

Already one of the most talked-about new shows of the upcoming season, V is a thrilling reimagining of the groundbreaking miniseries, starring Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Morris Chestnut (Boyz n the Hood), Joel Gretsch (The 4400), Lourdes Benedicto (24), Logan Huffman (America), and Laura Vandervoort (Smallville), with Morena Baccarin (Firefly) and Scott Wolf (Party of Five). Scott Peters (The 4400), Jace Hall (The Jace Hall Show), Steve Pearlman (Related) and Jeffrey Bell (Angel) are the executive producers for HDFilms in association with Warner Bros. Television. V will premiere midseason on ABC.

Writer/producer Kevin Williamson (the Scream movies) is back with The Vampire Diaries, an edgy and romantic new drama in which two vampire brothers—one good, one evil—are at war for the soul of one girl. Based on the best-selling book series of the same name by L.J. Smith, the show stars Nina Dobrev (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Paul Wesley (Everwood), Ian Somerhalder (Lost), Steven R. McQueen (Everwood), Katerina Graham (17 Again), Sara Canning (Smallville), Candice Accola (Supernatural), Zach Roerig (Friday Night Lights), Kayla Ewell (Entourage), and Michael Trevino (The Riches). Williamson, Leslie Morgenstein (Gossip Girl), and Bob Levy (Gossip Girl) are the executive producers for Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment, and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios. The Vampire Diaries will air Thursdays at 8:00 PM ET/PT this fall on The CW, premiering September 10.

Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

Thursday, July 23
Last changed: Thu, Jul 9, 11:46am

10:00-11:00 Fan’s Guide to Comic-Con— For the third consecutive year Wesley Strawther, Matthew Jeffrey, and gaming expert Jesse Lopez host a hilarious guide to the San Diego Comic-Con. First timers will find just a little more information than veteran attendees! Room 2
Categories: Fandom | Games

10:00-11:00 Heroes, Villains, and Dramatica Archetypes— Stories are populated with heroes, villains, sidekicks and more. Story development expert Chris Huntley (Dramatica Story Theory) discusses what makes them tick and how to use them in your stories. We’ll explore the basics then go beyond simple character archetypes and create far more interesting, complex characters! Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Escapist Fantasy— What are the pluses and perils of adding magic and monsters to our world? Panelists Juliet Blackwell (Second Hand Spirits), Marjorie Liu (Darkness Calls), Jackie Kessler & Caitlin Kittredge (co-authors, Black & White), Diana Rowland (Mark of the Demon), Sina Grace (Cedric Hollows In Dial “M” For Magic), Seanan McGuire (Rosemary & Rue), and Harry Connolly (Child of Fire) weigh in on the options. Moderator: Maryelizabeth Hart, Mysterious Galaxy. Room 10
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 How-To Session:Howard Simpson— Howard Simpson of Abba Studios is a storyteller. Simpson started drawing comics while he was in college and has continued to do so for various publishers and clients. He has done children’s books for Nickelodeon, Random House, Simon & Schuster, Bantam, Doubleday, and Dell. He has done storyboards for commercials and movies. Howard will present storytelling for children. Room 18
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 LongBox Digital Comics— Rantz Hoseley (CEO LongBox, Inc., editor of Comic Book Tattoo) hosts this presentation of the LongBox Platform for Digital Comics. Rantz, along with special guests—including Jeff Katz (American Original Productions)—demonstrates LongBox, talks about the impending launch, and discusses some of the exciting partnerships and plans for what some are calling the future of digital comics. Room 32AB
Categories: Comic Books | Webcomics

10:15-11:15 Summit Entertainment: Astro Boy— A superhero origin story set in a futuristic world, Astro Boy is an all-new CG-animated feature film based on the classic manga about a young robot with incredible powers and his adventure-filled journey in search of his identity and destiny. Director David Bowers, producer Maryanne Grager, and stars Freddie Highmore (Astro) and Kristen Bell (Cora) debut footage exclusive to Comic-Con 2009 and answer your questions about bringing this beloved hero to the big screen. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Kids | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:30-11:30 Tripwire Magazine— The staff of Tripwire, Britain’s premiere comics culture magazine, discuss genre fiction, comics, movies and more. Join Joel Meadows (editor-in-chief), Andy Grossberg (U.S. editor), and Pat McGreal for a rousing chat. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 1— Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! DC Representatives discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, and Zuda. This informative orientation session explains how DC’s Talent Search works and provides numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 Motion Comics: Graphic Novels in The Digital Age— Warner Premiere is one of the pioneers in the production of Motion Comics, which include Watchmen, Peanuts, Batman: Black and White, and many others. Motion Comics are short-form videos that use subtle movements, voice-overs, sweeping music scores, and stunning comic book artwork to bring an engaging visual experience to life. Moderated by Gregory Noveck (DC Comics), with panelists Paul Levitz, (DC Comics, Batman: Black and White), Dave Gibbons (Watchmen, Batman: Black and White), Paul Dini (Batman: Black and White, Mad Love), Lydia Antonini (Warner Premiere), Dylan Coburn (Karactaz, Superman: Red Son), and Stephen Fedasz (Perpetual Notions), who discuss graphic novel storytelling and production in the digital age. Attendees will also see the debut of two DC Motion Comic series during this panel. Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Webcomics

10:30-11:30 TheOneRing.net: The Hobbit— With Middle-earth returning to the big screen in December 2011, TheOneRing.net will take you behind the scenes of the latest news, announcements, and rumors pertaining to the Peter Jackson and Guillermo del Toro production of The Hobbit. Chris Pirrotta, Larry Curtis, Cliff Broadway, and others from TheOneRing.net crew offer this early look at making The Hobbit happen! Room 7AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:30-11:30 Science Fiction That Will Change Your Life— The staff of io9.com, Eisner Award–winning author Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics), and others talk about science fiction from the last year that does more than blow things up. It might also blow your mind. What science fiction should you be reading and watching if you want your brain to grow so big it pops out of the top of your skull and starts throbbing and shooting lasers? The panelists have some tips. Room 8
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #1: Comics, Courts, and Controversy— Marc Greenberg (Golden Gate University School of Law) examines contemporary legal cases dealing with comics and copyright. First are two cases in which the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund defended comic artists and comic book storeowners against charges of obscenity, then a case in which the CBLDF fought an effort by the California Franchise Tax Board to tax penciled comic book pages sent to publishers. Greenberg closes his overview with a detailed analysis of the 70-year battle by the Siegel family to terminate the grant of copyright in the character, art and story of Superman, culminating in a landmark decision issued last year. Room 30AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Comics Law School | Retailer Programming

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 101: Let’s Get It Started— The popular Comic Book Law School series, which provides a basic foundation for understanding copyright and trademark law through an interactive lecture, is brought to you by noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book. This first workshop covers the basics of protection and ownership of ideas, works of authorship, characters, names, and logos, from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees will participate in an interactive discussion about basic rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, as well as new decisions and changes in the law and how they could affect those rights. Along the way, there is plenty to learn about the protections available, as well as the numerous potential pitfalls, under the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. (Please Note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. This program is approved for one (1) credit of California MCLE.) Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:30 Secret Origins of Comic-Con — How did it all begin? Those who were there in 1969 (most of them teenagers at the time!) have the behind-the-scenes story of the very first meetings, the first mini-con, and the first Golden State Comic-Con at the U.S. Grant in 1970. Panelist include Richard Alf, Barry Alfonso, Greg Bear, Dave Clark, Roger Freedman, Ken Krueger, Scott Shaw!, and Mike Towry, with William R. Lund as moderator. Room 2
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Fandom

11:00-12:00 The State of MMOs: A Discussion with the Developers— Join Craig Alexander (Turbine), Gordon Walton (BioWare), Bob Ferrari (Sanrio Digital), and Dave Brevik (Gazillion) for a panel discussion and Q&A moderated by George Chronis (DFC Intelligence) about the current state of the massively multiplayer online games market. Panelists will discuss topics such as MMO pricing models and free-to-play games, design innovations, the future of console MMOs, and much more! Room 5AB
Categories: Games

11:00-12:00 IDW Publishing: The Evolution of Comics— Through the lens of IDW’s tenth anniversary, founder Ted Adams and IDW editors and creators, including Ashley Wood (Zombies vs. Robots), and Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), discuss the evolution of the company and look ahead at the future of comics, complete with special announcements of upcoming IDW projects. Room 10
Categories: Comic Books

11:00-12:00 How-To Session: Randy Martinez— See the Onsite Newsletter for more information on Randy’s How-To Session. Room 18
Categories: Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 AFTimes.com Toymaker Q&A— Ever wanted to know why one character was chosen for production over another? Why your favorite character was limited or just what toy companies are thinking? Here’s your chance to ask the manufacturers about their favorite figures and statues. Panelists include David Scroggy (Dark Horse), Chuck Ticera (Diamond Select Toys), Eric “Cornboy” Mayes (4 Horsemen), Kevin Winnick (president of Toy2R USA), Joe Petrollese (Tonner Doll), Clayborne Moore (CS Moore), Corrine Robinson (McFarlane Toys), and Scott Neitlich (Mattel). Room 32AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books

11:00-12:30 Disney: 3D Panel— Walt Disney Pictures presents key filmmakers, select cast members and previously unseen footage from its upcoming slate, including Disney’s A Christmas Carol, Alice In Wonderland and Tron. Special guests include Robert Zemeckis, Tim Burton, Sean Bailey, Steve Lisberger, and moderator Patton Oswalt. Hall H
Categories: Animation | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:15-12:15 The Middleman Cast Reunion and Lost Episode Table Read— Creator Javier Grillo-Marxuach (Lost) and the complete cast—including Matt Keeslar, Natalie Morales, Brit Morgan, Mary Pat Gleason, Jake Smollett, Mark Sheppard, Brendan Hines, Sarah Watson, Jordan Rosenberg, Margaret Dunlap, and Andy Reaser—reunite to celebrate the DVD release of The Middleman: The Complete Series from Shout! Factory, with an exclusive table read of the lost 13th episode, The Doomsday Armageddon Apocalypse, which was never produced for television but is now available as a graphic novel from Viper Comics. Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Brom— Marvel at this multimedia presentation by dark fantasy artist—and Comic-Con special guest—Brom (Dungeons and Dragons, Magic the Gathering, WOW, The Plucker), chronicling his earliest artistic endeavors up to his latest projects, featuring many never-before-seen images and lots of behind-the-scenes material, followed by a Q&A with the audience. Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:30-12:30 Archie Comics: Archie Marries Veronica— It’s the wedding of the century, but that is just the start, with plenty of surprise announcements about the future of Archie Comics, including the latest news about Archie on television and in feature films! Panelists include legendary The Dark Knight movie producer and Archie writer Michael Uslan, new Archie Comics CEO Jon Goldwater, iVerse CEO Michael Murphy, IDW Publishing COO Greg Goldstein, Archie Comics president/director of circulation Fred Mausser, and Archie Comics vice president/managing editor Mike Pellerito. The panel is moderated by Archie’s public relations coordinator Rik Offenberger and features a Q&A session. An “Archie Marries Veronica” poster will be given to everyone attending the panel. Room 4
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Kids | Movies | Television

11:30-12:30 World of Warcraft: Epic Loot— Get your game on outside of Azeroth! Join a panel of Blizzard Entertainment decision makers along with their proud licensed partners for an all-out discussion/unveiling of World of Warcraft–inspired product awesomeness. Moderated by Cory Jones, Blizzard Entertainment’s director of global business development & licensing. In attendance: Chris Metzen (Blizzard Entertainment sr. VP of creative development), Nick Carpenter (Blizzard Entertainment cinematic creative director), Hank Kanalz (VP/GM of WildStorm and World of Warcraft monthly editor), Troy Lewter (Tokyopop editor on the Warcraft manga), Scott Gaeta (Upper Deck director of new product development and organized play), Margeaux Doremus Sullivan (Upper Deck brand manager on World of Warcraft minis), and Sean Gailey (J!nx creative director). Room 6BCF
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:30-12:30 Hasbro: G.I. Joe— The Hasbro design and marketing teams—Aaron Archer and Michelino Paolino (Hasbro Design), and Jeff Labovitz (Hasbro Marketing), discuss the upcoming release of the G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie, the new toy line hitting shelves, the new video game, and much more! This panel will include special guests that you won’t want to miss, plus Q&A time. Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Movies

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Leinil Francis Yu— Join Comic-Con special guest Leinil Francis Yu for this free-for-all discussion with fans and aspiring artists about global warming, the Swine flu pandemic, and of course, comics. A quick drawing demonstration, Q&A with fans, and tips on how to make a killer portfolio and break in to comics—all in one hour! Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #2: Comics Theory— Dru H. Jeffries (Concordia University) argues that Zack Snyder’s film 300 mimics the form of comics by manipulating film styles, particularly slow motion. Neil Cohn (Emaki Productions) presents the results of psychology experiments investigating how our minds make sense of the sequence of images in comics. David B. Olsen (St. Louis University) uses examples that include Winsor McCay, Paul Pope, and Alan Moore to demonstrate how we negotiate the rhythm of comics reading. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Movies

11:45-12:45 DC: Superman: Two Worlds— Torn between New Krypton and Earth, the Man of Steel has only just begun his latest adventure. You’ve seen the stories: a new planet of Kryptonians; scores of super-powered beings. The people behind Superman’s future are here to face the most trying times in his life. Meet the talented folks behind Superman as they give you a glimpse of what is in store for our favorite Super-family. Featuring Superman group editor Matt Idelson, writers Geoff Johns (Adventure Comics, Superman: Secret Origins), Greg Rucka (Action Comics), James Robinson (Superman), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Renato Guedes (Superman), and more! Room 6DE
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Bryan Lee O’Malley— Comic-Con special guest Bryan Lee O’Malley (winner of the Doug Wright, Joe Shuster, and Harvey Awards) talks with legendary comics scholar Scott McCloud (Understanding Comics, Zot!) about Bryan’s groundbreaking slice-of-life graphic novel series Scott Pilgrim. From its genesis to the production of the upcoming film version, O’Malley speaks frankly about where Scott Pilgrim came from and where the series is going from here. With a fan Q&A to close the discussion, this is the must attend event of Comic-Con 2009! Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

12:00-1:00 Bongo Comics Sneak Peek— Bongo Comics offers a mouth-watering preview of upcoming projects featuring The Simpsons and Futurama. Managing editor Terry Delegeane and creative director Bill Morrison host this panel featuring the writers and artists who create the comics and books based on Matt Groening’s phenomenal TV shows. Find out what’s in the future for Futurama Comics and what to expect in Simpsons Comics. Plus, Sammy Harkham (Kramer’s Ergot) and Ben Jones (Paper Rad) will be on hand to talk about their wholly unique approach to The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror! And special guest and world famous cartoonist Sergio Aragonés will explain to all just what he’s doing on the Bongo panel. This is a “must-attend” panel for all fans of The Simpsons and Futurama and anyone looking for a place to sit down! Room 10
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-1:00 Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey— Key production personnel and cast members discuss the making of Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey, the 3D, CGI Large Format film that combines beautiful animated sequences with actual space imagery captured during seven ongoing NASA and NASA/ESA space missions. Featuring a stellar voice cast that includes Neil Armstrong, Chris Pine, Samuel L. Jackson, Hayden Christensen, Amanda Peet, Robert Picardo, Jason Alexander, Tom Kenny, Sandra Oh, Brent Spiner, James Earl Jones, Williams Shatner, Mark Hamill, Doug Jones, Abigail Breslin and Gary Graham, Quantum Quest has been endorsed by the X Prize Organization, the International Space University, Challenge Center for Space Science Education, and the Young Astronauts Council. Producer, screenwriter, and co-director Dr. Harry Kloor, whose writing credits include Star Trek: Voyager, the animated series Godzilla, and Earth: Final Conflict, is joined by co-director Daniel St. Pierre (co-director, Everyone’s Hero, production designer, A Shark’s Tale, art director, Tarzan), space scientists, and key cast members. The panel will offer new work-in-progress clips and an in-depth exploration of the science behind the film. Ballroom 20
Categories: Movies

12:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: The Painter’s Process with Jill Thompson and Charles Vess— Bring your sketchbook and your questions to this first-hand view of the creative process of two of comics’ greatest painters! Jill Thompson (Magic Trixie) and Charles Vess (Sandman) take you step by step through the painting process at this live art demonstration. Witness how each artist brings a painting to life on the big screen. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF’s auction! Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes— Join legendary Disney Animation producer Don Hahn, famed Disney animator Glen Keane, creator of Aladdin’s Genie Eric Goldberg, director/teacher/animator Tom Sito, and Masked Avenger Studios owner and sculptor Ruben Procopio for a discussion of the life and influence of Disney mentor, trainer, and artist Walt Stanchfield. Room 32AB
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Movies | Tributes

12:30-2:00 Comic-Con in the ’70s— In its first decade Comic-Con was put on by a dedicated group of volunteers who managed to build a national reputation for the show. How did they get those great guests? Are those stories about the shark repellant in the El Cortez pool really true? Hear from the committee members who have all the inside info on what those early years were like: Wendy All, Maeheah Alzmann, Richard Butner, Vicky Kelso-Goulart, Gene Henderson, and Charlene Brinke Stevens, with Jackie Estrada as moderator. Room 2
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Fandom

12:30-1:30 Crime: Usual and Unusual— The heart of crime fiction is a crime committed against people or institutions—but the range of subgenres is diverse and fascinating. Panelists: Max Allan Collins (The Goliath Bone), Jeffrey J. Mariotte (Cold Black Hearts), Alexander Irvine (Buyout), Gregg Hurwitz (Trust No One), Thomas Greanias (The Atlantis Revelation), and Kat Richardson (Vanished) cover traditional mysteries, espionage, paranormal mystery, and more. Moderator: Maryelizabeth Hart, Mysterious Galaxy. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Indie Comics Marketing 101— Too Much Coffee Man’s Shannon Wheeler has gone from minicomics to self-publishing to Dark Horse and now to The New Yorker. Heidi MacDonald runs the taste-making comic industry must-read blog The Beat for Publisher’s Weekly. Marketing director Chip Mosher is part of the team that has helped rocket BOOM! into the Top 10. All of them know a thing or two about marketing indie comics, and they join forces on this wide-ranging panel where they reveal their secrets! Moderated by former manager of development and content at MySpace and architect of MySpace Comic Books, Sam Humphries. Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

12:30-1:30 Richard Hatch: Battlestar Retrospective— Moderated by actor/author Richard Hatch (Tom Zarek, Capt Apollo, author: So Say We All), with Bear McCreary (Battlestar, Eureka, Caprica composer), Michael Tayler (Battlestar, Caprica, Star Trek writer/producer), Kevin Grazier (Battlestar, Eureka, science consultant) and special guests, this panel provides a review, discussion and Q&A of Battlestar’s past four seasons and dramatic ending. Includes the new BG 30th trailer. Room 6A
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:30-1:30 Hasbro: Transformers 2— Want to see what’s new with Transformers? Hasbro’s design and marketing teams—Aaron Archer (Hasbro Brand IP Development), Jared Wade and Eric Siebenaler (Hasbro Design), and Michael Ballog and Matt Proulx (Hasbro Marketing)— present all the latest toys from the new Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen line. And get a sneak peek into what Hasbro is doing to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Transformers in 2010! Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Movies | Television

12:30-1:30 Dante’s Inferno— Jonathan Knight (executive producer, EA), Ash Huang (art director), Brandon Auman (writer), Christos Gage (writer), and Diego Latorre (artist) talk about the adaptation of this literary classic into pop culture. They will discuss how they translated the various aspects of The Divine Comedy into a video game, an animated feature, and a comic series, where they were faithful and where they invented, and how each of the mediums differs. Also get a peak at EA’s game in development, and also watch the world premiere trailer for the animated feature Dante’s Inferno co-produced by EA and Starz Media. Room 8
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Games | Movies | Writers & Writing

12:45-1:45 Disney: Stan Lee’s Time Jumper— Don’t miss Stan Lee and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment as they present a special sneak peek of their new digital motion comic series Time Jumper. Comic book legend Stan Lee is joined by Natasha Henstridge (one of the character voices in Time Jumper), Omar Ponce (writer), and Anthony Diecidue (artist) for a Q&A session. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Webcomics

12:45-2:00 20th Century Fox and James Cameron present Avatar— In this first public screening of footage in 3D from his much-anticipated action/adventure/fantasy, James Cameron, producer Jon Landau, and cast members take you to a spectacular new world beyond imagination. Conceived 14 years ago and over four years in the making, Avatar breaks new ground in delivering a fully immersive, emotional story and reinvents the movie-going experience. Hall H
Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Kevin Eastman— TMNJ co-creator Kevin Eastman not only reflects on his Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle years (with a preview his Comic-Con exclusive 25th Anniversary hardcover collection of favorite TMNT stories!), but also shares sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes teasers or trailers for his upcoming animated film projects—War of The Worlds: Goliath! and Underwhere—and introduces the new Tor Books Novel line Heavy Metal Pulp and the in-development Biz and Buzz animated series. Last but not least, Kevin will give you an update on the new David Fincher/James Cameron–produced Heavy Metal film! Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Television

1:00-2:00 Mondo Marvel— From the Marvel U to the Ultimate U and everything in between, the top talent is on hand to talk about all of your favorite heroes and villains, as well as make a few surprise announcements! Panelists include Jason Aaron (Wolverine: Weapon X), Dennis Calero (X Men Noir), Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man), Paul Tobin (Models, INC), Frank Tieri (Dark Reign: Lethal Legion), Steve Wacker (Spider-Man editor), and Jim McCann (New Avengers: The Reunion). Room 6DE
Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Jimmy Gownley— How did Comic-Con special guest Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules!) go from creating comics in his basement to landing an eight-book deal with Simon & Schuster? Find out how he and his marketing-director wife, Karen Gownley, turned a pipedream into reality, and how you can do it, too! Session will include Q&A. Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:00-2:00 How-To Session: Denise Vasquez— See the Onsite Newsletter for more information on Denise’s How-To Session. Room 18
Categories: Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #3: Nell Brinkley and the Brinkley Girls— Trina Robbins, comics creator, historian, and author of the recent book The Brinkley Girls, presents insights into the work and personal history of Nell Brinkley. Brinkley was once one of the most well known cartoonists in America, and her creations—the beautiful Brinkley Girls—appeared everywhere from the Sunday comics to the Ziegfeld Follies. Room 30AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics Arts Conference | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 Tetsuo for the 21st Century— The maverick filmmaker Shinya Tsukamoto (Tetsuo), will have a premiere talk on his secret plans for the movie tentatively called Tetsuo Project. Tsukamoto will reveal the details of this first English language installment of Tetsuo, the third legendary cyberpunk action thriller from Tokyo. Be among the first to witness the official title announcement as well as an exclusive sneak peek at the movie—only for the Comic-Con audience! Room 32AB
Categories: Anime & Manga | Movies

1:15-2:15 USA Network’s Psych— James Roday (Shawn Spencer), Dulé Hill (Burton “Gus” Guster), Maggie Lawson (Juliet O’Hara), Tim Omundson (Carlton Lassiter), Corbin Bernsen (Henry Spencer), Steve Franks (creator and executive producer), and the entire creative team give you an all-access behind-the-scenes pass to the USA Network hit original series Psych. Stars and producers will share personal stories and answer questions about the show’s genesis, episodic development, and production process. Video presentations created exclusively for Comic-Con will feature never-before-seen outtakes, a Season 4 exclusive preview, and a special video-diary segment that will take panel attendees inside the daily production process via the perspective of a staff writer, the Vancouver production team, and series star James Roday as he prepares to shoot a scene for the upcoming season. Plus, two lucky fans will find fame and fortune when they win the honor of having a guest character in a future episode named after them! You can also expect giveaways, exclusive merchandise, and a first-run preview copy of the upcoming Psych graphic novel from Oni Press! Ballroom 20
Categories: Comic Books | Humor & Satire | Television

1:30-2:30 Dumbrella— Artists from Dumbrella, one of the most popular online comic collectives, discuss webcomics, independent publishing and subverting popular culture. Feel free to quiz Andrew Bell (The Creatures in My Head), Sam Brown (explodingdog), Jon Rosenberg (Goats), and Richard Stevens III (Diesel Sweeties), along with Meredith Gran (Octopus Pie), and Chris Yates (Reprographics) about anything your Internet heart desires. Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Webcomics

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Jerry Robinson— One of the true legends of comics, Comic-Con special guest Jerry Robinson is a writer, artist, comics historian, museum show curator, and creator rights activist. Noted comics writer and editor Mark Waid (BOOM! Studios editor-in-chief) interviews Jerry about his life in comics, from his early days on Batman to his founding of the Bill Finger Excellence in Comic Writing Award. Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Avatars, Icons, and Antiheroes— The new hero is the anti-hero: twisted fairy tale icons, magicians turned hitmen, and avatars of both Good and Evil are cold-blooded killers and worse in the pages of these writers’ imaginations. Moderator Diana Gill (executive editor of Eos Books) leads a discussion on this phenomenon with Kevin J. Anderson (Enemies & Allies), Brom (The Child Thief), Richard Kadrey (Sandman Slim), Vicki Pettersson (City of Souls), S. J. Day (Eve of Chaos), and Holly Black (Ironside). Room 7AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 LEGO Star Wars Visual Dictionary— Ten years ago in a galaxy not far away LEGO and Star Wars came together! Find out how such an amazing partnership was formed from Jonathan Rinzler (executive editor, Lucasfilm) and Rob Johnson (art director, The LEGO Group), while Simon Beecroft (author and publishing manager, DK Publishing) doles out all sorts of information on the upcoming LEGO Star Wars: The Visual Dictionary. Collectors and fans won’t want to miss the unveiling of the exclusive LEGO Star Wars minifigure that will be released with the book on October 10. The first 50 attendees will receive DK swag and be entered to win a LEGO Star Wars set and a free copy of LEGO Star Wars: The Visual Dictionary upon its release. Room 8
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Fandom | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:45-2:45 Assassin’s Creed II: Video Games and Hollywood Converge— Yannis Mallat (CEO, Ubisoft Montreal), Pierre Raymond (president & head of operations, HYBRIDE Technologies, a VFX studio involved on 300, Sin City), and key team members discuss the convergence between Hollywood and video games, featuring the fastest-selling new franchise in video game history: Assassin’s Creed. This session touches on the evolution of creating and distributing content while highlighting the bridge between two different spheres—gaming and entertainment—to create the Assassins Creed II universe. Plus, panelists reveal new information on the new Assassin’s Creed II series coming out this fall. Room 6A
Categories: Games | Television

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Bill Sienkiewicz— The Eisner Award–winning writer/artist is a Comic-Con special guest. Bill Sienkiewicz is best known for his comics work such as Elektra: Assassin and Stray Toasters, but he’s also a film designer and writer/director. Bill talks about his career in this special Spotlight panel. Room 2
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 A Darker Shade of Ink: Crime and Noir in Comics— Crime comics are back with a bang! Darwyn Cooke (Parker: The Hunter), Greg Rucka (Gotham Central), and Steve Lieber (Whiteout) join moderator/noted mystery and comics writer Max Allan Collins (The Road to Perdition) to talk about the new incarnations of crime and noir in comics. Room 5AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Sony Pictures Animation: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs— In 2009, Columbia Pictures’ and Sony Pictures Animation’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs will be the most delicious event since macaroni met cheese. Inspired by the classic children’s book, the film focuses on a town where food begins to fall from the sky like rain. Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian) is the voice of Flint Lockwood, a young inventor who dreams of creating something that will improve everyone’s life. Anna Faris (The House Bunny) takes on the role of Sam Sparks, a weathergirl covering the phenomenon who hides her intelligence behind a perky exterior. James Caan plays Tim Lockwood, Flint’s technophobic father. SNL’s Andy Samberg plays Brent, the town bully who has plagued Flint since childhood. Bruce Campbell plays Mayor Shelbourne, who figures out that Flint’s invention can put the town, and more importantly himself, on the map, and Mr. T plays the by-the-rules town cop, Earl Devereaux. Bobb’e J. Thompson (Role Models) is Carl Devereaux, Earl’s son. Appearing in person: Anna Faris, Bill Hader, Andy Samberg, Bobb’e J. Thompson, and directors Chris Miller and Phil Lord. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Movies

2:00-3:00 ComicBase— Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to hear creator Pete Bickford chat about ComicBase’s special program features, offer tips and tricks, and give you all the inside dirt on the making of the program. Be prepared for the cutting edge of collection software as Pete unveils the secrets of the latest version of ComicBase. And stay for the latest developments for Atomic Avenue—the world’s best place for buying and selling comics online—powered by ComicBase! With exciting limited-edition prizes for lucky attendees, drop by and get your ComicBase questions personally answered by Programmin’ Pete Bickford. Room 10
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 How-To Session: Jason Cruse— Jason T. Kruse is not only a veteran of the prestigious CalArts in sunny Southern California, he is also a maker of fine comic books, including The World of Quest. Jason has worked in animation on such films as The Barnyard, Stuart Little, and Cats and Dogs, as well as animating and storyboarding various pilots for companies such as Disney and Nickelodeon. At Quicksilver he was the character animator on four games, including the recently released Master of Orion 3 and Cashflow 101 and 202, as well as numerous games for the U.S. Army. He works at Helixe Studio outside of Boston on the handheld Nintendo adaptations of Pixar’s next films. Jason will cover the creative process for making comic books for young readers. Room 18
Categories: Animation | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #4: Myth and the Superhero— With examples drawn from the superman mythos and the Crisis of Infinite Earths, Angela Ndalianis (University of Melbourne) explores the intertextuality that has transformed superhero narratives into multiple myths. W. Stephen Combs (Wittenberg University) debunks the idea of superheroes as modern mythology, and suggests instead they should be viewed as a part of America’s folklore. Richard Harrison (Mount Royal College) traces the way Bill Finger’s origins of Superman transformed the mythos and mythology of Krypton and the Man of Steel. Room 30AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

2:00-3:30 Animation on a Shoestring— Learn the down and dirty tricks on how to create your own animation studio on a low budget, from the author of Animation on a Shoestring. Find out how to assemble the equipment you will need, how to build or buy equipment, and what software to use to edit and composite your project. Featuring Larry Loc, animation educator. Room 30CDE
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 Costume Designers: Designing for Television Production— Characters created by writers and comic book illustrators are made real for the screen via the artistry of costume designers. Meet the women and men who are the costume designers on this year’s most popular television productions. Panel moderator Phillip Boutte Jr. (costume illustrator and member of the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892) hosts costume designers Shawna Trpcic (Dollhouse), Roland Sanchez (Lost), Amanda Friedland (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles), and Audrey Fisher (True Blood). Room 32AB
Categories: Costuming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:15-3:15 Spotlight on Geoff Johns— He is the mastermind behind the smash-hit, critically acclaimed Flash: Rebirth and DC’s most anticipated book of the year, Green Lantern: Blackest Night. Wondering what makes Geoff Johns tick? Don’t miss this panel hosted by Eddie Berganza, group edito–DCU, interviewing one of the most exciting talents in comics. Room 6DE
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:15-3:15 Summit Entertainment— Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage of some of its upcoming major film releases!
Astro boy—A classic superhero origin story set in a futuristic world, Astro Boy is an all-new CG-animated feature film about a young robot with incredible powers and his adventure-filled journey in search of his identity and destiny. Join Freddie Highmore and Kristen Bell as they premiere the final trailer for Astro Boy before it’s in theaters.

Sorority Row—When five sorority girls inadvertently cause the murder of one of their sisters in a prank gone wrong, they agree to keep the matter to themselves and never speak of it again, so they can get on with their lives. This proves easier said than done, when after graduation a mysterious killer goes after the five of them and anyone who knows their secret. Join the cast of Sorority Row as they debut footage from the film exclusive to Comic-Con 2009.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon—Summit Entertainment is proud to present the panel for The Twilight Saga: New Moon, the highly anticipated sequel to last year’s box office smash Twilight. Surprise members of the cast will answer your questions about the second film in the series and debut never-before-seen footage from the new film.

Hall H
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

2:30-3:30 Archaia/Roddenberry Productions: Days Missing— Archaia Studios Press is now simply known as Archaia! Learn about the sci-fi titles the publisher has in store, such as Titanium Rain (with creators Josh Finney and Kat Rocha), Robotika (with creator Alex Sheikman), and Starkweather (with writer David Rodriguez and artist Patrick McEvoy). Then meet the creative dream team behind Days Missing, the new sci-fi comic miniseries from Archaia and Roddenberry Productions, the legendary company that brought you Star Trek. Get a sneak peek of exclusive covers and art, and learn more about storylines for upcoming issues. Panelists include Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth from Roddenberry Productions; Archaia’s Stephen Christy, Mark Smylie and Rob Levin; Chris Burnham (X-Men: Divided We Stand); Ian Edginton (Stormwatch); Phil Hester (The Darkness); David Hine (Batman: Battle for the Cowl); Frazer Irving (Batman and Robin); and Matz(The Killer). All attendees will receive a free copy of Days Missing#1! Room 3
Categories: Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy

2:30-3:30 Spotlight on Gene Yang— Only three years ago, Comic-Con special guest Gene Yang (American Born Chinese) was making his reputation on minicomics. Now he’s an award-winning graphic novelist. Hear him in conversation with fellow comic artist and collaborator Derek Kirk Kim (The Eternal Smile). Room 4
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

2:30-3:30 DVD/Blu-ray Producers 2009: Now in Glorious High-Definition!— Bill Hunt, Adam Jahnke, and Todd Doogan (of The Digital Bits.com), talk about the latest DVD and Blu-ray developments with some of the leading special-edition producers in Hollywood! Panelists include Robert Meyer Burnett (The Hills Run Red, Free Enterprise: The Wrath of Shatner), Laura Gross (Coraline, 9), Charles de Lauzirika (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood), David Naylor (Fringe, Bad Lieutenant), and Cliff Stephenson (Crank 2: High Voltage, Gamer). You can expect inside talk, a Q&A, and a sneak peek at great upcoming discs! Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Fandom | Movies | Television

2:30-3:30 Sergio and Mark— They’re back! Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier reunite for their yearly discussion on all things Groo and beyond. Joining them are their Groo-horts Stan Sakai and Tom Luth. Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire | Writers & Writing

2:30-3:30 USA Network’s Burn Notice— Bruce Campbell (Sam Axe), Matt Nix (creator and executive producer) and Alfredo Barrios, Jr. (co-executive producer) host a panel discussion and answer questions about the creative process of evolving an embryonic idea into a finished episode of cable’s #1 hit show. Fans will gain an intimate look inside the world of Burn Notice, complete with war stories from the writer’s room and filming on location in Miami. Exclusive video content will include tips on how to survive Comic-Con from your favorite burned spy, Michael Westen (played by Jeffrey Donovan), highlights from the previous two seasons, and an exclusive sneak peek at future season 3 episodes, including the half-season finale and beyond. Ballroom 20
Categories: Humor & Satire | Television

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Brian Herbert— The famed science fiction author (and son of Dune creator Frank Herbert) talks about his career and what’s next. Brian Herbert is a Comic-Con special guest. Room 2
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Bill Plympton: King of Indie Animation— Animator Bill Plympton (Idiots and Angels) presents Horn Dog, the fourth smash installment in his famed, Oscar-nominated “Dog” series. Bill will screen some of his new animated shorts, including Mexican Standoff and Santa: The Fascist Years and present some early scenes from his work-in-progress feature film Hanky Panky. Bill will also be available for Q&A after the screening, and all attendees will get a free Bill Plympton drawing. Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Humor & Satire | Movies

3:00-4:00 Robot Chicken with Titan Maximum— Seth Green (co-creator, Robot Chicken and Titan Maximum), Matthew Senreich (co-creator, Robot Chicken and Titan Maximum), Tom Root (head writer, Robot Chicken/co-creator, Titan Maximum) and Doug Goldstein (head writer, Robot Chicken) with Chris McKay, Breckin Meyer, Kevin Shinick, Mike Fasolo, and Dan Milano discuss the popular Adult Swim series Robot Chicken. They will also discuss the upcoming new stop-motion animated series Titan Maximum, slated to premiere on Adult Swim this fall. Join this meet-up of show creators, writers and voice actors for a Q&A, moderated by Keith Crofford, vice president of Adult Swim production. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

3:00-4:00 Oni Press: Panelmonium 2009— Get up close and personal with trend setting indie comic powerhouse Oni Press. Join in the Q&A with your favorite Oni creators, including Ross Campbell (Wet Moon), Jamie S. Rich (You Have Killed Me), Greg Rucka (Whiteout), Bryan Lee O’Malley (Scott Pilgrim), and Chris Schweizer (The Crogan Adventures). Get sneak peeks at upcoming Oni projects, news on Oni Press fan initiatives, free Oni comics, prizes, and more! Guaranteed by Oni Press’s totally biased employees to be “the most fun you’ll ever have at a panel.” Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

3:00-4:00 How-To Session: Tom T. Nguyen— Tom T. Nguyen is a full-time professional artist and author. He works mostly for DC Comics and does pin-up art. Tom has created a series of how-to videos on YouTube covering the comic book art creation process. He will be covering the basics of how to ink a comic book page. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Masters of the Web— For the third year in a row the most popular genre and movie websites are coming together to discuss how new media have affected moviemaking, what it takes to run a popular site, and much more in a panel discussion and Q&A session. Participants include Robert Sanchez (IESB.net), Ryan Rotten (Shocktilyoudrop.com), Mike Sampson (Joblo.com), Jeremy Smith (Aintitcoolnews.com), Brad Miska (Bloody-Disgusting.com), Drew McWeeny (Hitfix.com), Devin Faraci (CHUD.com), Paul Christensen (Movieweb.com), Wilson Morales (Blackfilm.com/AOL Black Voices), Vic Holtreman (Screenrant.com), and George Roush (Latinoreview.com). Director Kevin Munroe (TMNT, Dead of Night) moderates, with Brandon Routh and Sam Huntington on hand to preview an exclusive sneak peek of their new film Dead of Night, based on the Dylan Dog comic books. Room 32AB
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Movies

3:15-4:15 Capcom 2009 Lineup— Capcom’s premiere producers present sneak peeks at the most anticipated games of the year. Featuring Jun Takeuchi (Lost Planet 2), Morgan Gray (Dark Void), Daryl Allison (Spyborgs), Motohide Eshiro (Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth), and Masachika Kawata (Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles) and moderated by Capcom-Unity.com’s Seth Killian. See exclusive gameplay footage and behind-the-scenes making-of features, followed by a Q&A session! Room 6BCF
Categories: Games

3:30-4:30 Evolution of Fantasy— Harry Potter, His Dark Materials, Twilight—the great mega-selling series of recent years have all ended. What will the next one look like? Or is it already here? How is fantasy evolving? Panelists Jacqueline Carey (Naamah’s Kiss), Lynn Flewelling (Shadows Return), Patrick Rothfuss (The Name Of The Wind), Thomas Sniegoski (The Fallen), Greg Van Eekhout (Norse Code), and Cindy Pon (Silver Phoenix : Beyond the Kingdom of Xia) answer questions posed by moderator Lev Grossman (The Magicians). Room 3
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Digital Comics Now!— Digital comics are happening right now. Not tomorrow, but right now. Join a panel of the best and brightest in the new wave of digital comics in a wide-ranging discussion of everything from comics on the iPhone to new digital comic platforms, motion comics, webcomics, and day-and-date-releases. Big announcements will be made! Panelists include Michael Murphey (CEO iVerse), David Steinberger (CEO of comiXology), Rantz Hosely (CEO LongBox), Chris Folino (VP, Catastrophic Comics), and Chip Mosher (marketing director, BOOM! Studios). Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Webcomics

3:30-4:30 Marvel: Breaking into the House of Ideas— Are you a writer or artist? Ever dream of working for Marvel? Do you find yourself thinking “I could do that…if I knew how!” Well, here’s your chance! Join C. B. Cebulski, Marvel’s talent liaison, and panelists writer Jeph Loeb (Ultimatum), Marvel editor Charlie Beckerman, artist Mike Choi (X-Force), colorist Christina Strain (Runaways), and more to find out the answers on how to get your foot in the door at every level in the creative process and how to make your job Marvel! Room 6DE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 J. Michael Straczynski: Professional Writing— Ideas are a dime a dozen. Executing those ideas (instead of assassinating them) is what separates pro from wannabe. But only you know what steps you need to take to get there, so if you show up for this talk, bring questions to ask J. Michael Straczynski, who has created a massively successful cross-platform writing career in movies, television, comics, and print. Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

3:30-5:00 Golden and Silver Age of Comics— A Comic-Con tradition: the yearly gathering and discussion of the clan of some of the finest comic book creators ever to put pen or typewriter to paper! This year’s panel—moderated by Mark Evanier—includes Comic-Con special guests Murphy Anderson (Hawkman), Gene Colan (Tomb of Dracula), Ramona Fradon (Aquaman), Russ Heath (The Haunted Tank), Jack Katz (The First Kingdom), Jerry Robinson (Batman), and Leonard Starr (Mary Perkins On Stage). Both Katz and Starr, known best for their underground comix and comic strip work, respectively, also worked in comics in the Golden and Silver Ages. The stories these people can tell are the stuff of legend…be a part of the yearly magic of this panel. Room 8
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

3:30-4:30 Seduction of the Innocent— No, it’s not the risen corpse of Dr. Fredric Wertham, it’s the superstar San Diego combo that rocked Comic-Con in the ’80s and ’90s. Together reminiscing, debuting their new con-exclusive CD, and taking questions on their comics, show biz, and musical careers are Bill Mumy (Babylon 5), Max Allan Collins (Road to Perdition), Steve Leialoha (Fables), and John “Chris” Christensen Songs from the Xenozoic Age). [We regret to announce that Miguel Ferrer, a founding member of SOTI, is unable to appear because of a filming commitment.] Room 30AB
Categories: 40th Anniversary | Comic Books | Fandom

3:30-4:30 Andrew Pepoy’s Professional Networking Seminar— Get set for a weekend of pressing the flesh and selling yourself with this popular Comic-Con seminar! Being talented isn’t enough—getting work and continuing to work in the comic book and comic strip publishing worlds often means knowing the right people as well. Inker and writer/artist Andrew Pepoy (Fables, The Simpsons)— celebrating his 20th anniversary in the business—brings back his popular seminar to help teach you how to get out there and use Comic-Con to its fullest networking potential. Take advantage of this early time slot to put some of Andrew’s good advice to work over the next few days! Room 30CDE
Categories: Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Joe Dante: The Hole— Legendary director Joe Dante (Gremlins 1 & 2, Innerspace, Explorers, The Howling) makes his return to the genre he knows best with the 3D thriller The Hole. Three kids come face to face with their darkest fears after they unlock a bottomless hole in the basement that makes their nightmares come to life. Join Dante—along with actress Haley Bennett (The Haunting of Molly Hartley)—as he discusses his return to thrillers, working in 3D, and The Hole. Hall H
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:45-4:45 Entertainment Weekly: Wonder Women: Female Power Icons in Pop Culture— EW will moderate a conversation with Sigourney Weaver (Avatar), Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars), and other stars about the actresses who have redefined the rules and the female characters that have shattered the glass ceiling for all women. Basically: a discussion with women who kick ass. Ballroom 20
Categories: Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Richard Thompson— Comic-Con special guest Richard Thompson (Cul de Sac, Richard’s Poor Almanac) has been doing the syndicated daily comic strip Cul de Sac for less than two years and it’s already gotten raves from Bill Watterson, Art Spiegelman, and comics fans just about everywhere. Join him as he shows his work, answers questions and proves he never sang with Fairport Convention. Room 2
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Gail Simone— One of the most popular writers working in comics today, Gail Simone is a Comic-Con special guest. Mark Waid interviews Gail about her work in comics, including Wonder Woman, Secret Six, and her much beloved run on Birds of Prey. Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 Top Shelf in 2009— With League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (Vol. III) and the new edition of Lost Girls, plus The Surrogates movie starring Bruce Willis hitting theaters on September 25, and literary titles such as Essex County, Alec, and Far Arden being released, it’s going to be an amazing year at Top Shelf. Come talk with publisher Chris Staros and creators Robert Venditti (The Surrogates), Jeff Lemire (Essex County), Kevin Cannon (Far Arden), and Nate Powell (Swallow Me Whole) to find out all the details. Room 10
Categories: Comic Books | Movies

4:00-5:00 How-To Session: Zander Cannon— Zander Cannon has been working in comics since 1993 and has done both writing and art duties on comics about knights, robots, spacemen, cops, superheroes, ghosts, and mythical creatures. His presentation will cover how to produce comics and other books as an independent publisher. With Kevin Cannon (no relation) he runs the studio Big Time Attic, which focuses on educational comics for book publishers. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 Tipping Point for LGBT Portrayals in Comics— LGBT issues have taken a central place in the cultural zeitgeist. How has this issue been illustrated in comics? This year, two lesbian characters—Batwoman and The Question—became co-leads of DC Comics’ namesake title, Detective Comics. What is the long-term significance of this? Does it reflect greater acceptance of LGBT characters in comics, or is this an isolated event? Have we reached a tipping point? Patty Jeres (Prism co-president) moderates this intriguing discussion with panelists Greg Rucka (Detective Comics), Marc Andreyko (Manhunter), Judd Winick (Pedro and Me), Jose Villarrubia (The Mirror of Love), Scott Allie (Buffy Season 8), Mimi Cruz (retailer, Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City, UT), and Matt Wagner (The Aerialist). Room 32AB
Categories: Comic Books

4:15-5:15 Cartoon Network: Chowder! The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack! Adventure Time with Finn and Jake!— This panel celebrates three of the best comedies from Cartoon Network Studios. First up is a sweet treat with Chowder, including special guests C. H. Greenblatt (creator) and Tara Strong (voice of Truffles). Then set sail with The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack and creator Thurop Van Orman (voice of Flapjack) and Steve Little (writer, voice of fan favorite Dr. Barber). Finally, hold onto your seats for a sneak peek of the new series Adventure Time with Finn and Jake with creator Pendelton Ward. It’s algebraic! Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

4:30-5:30 The Best and Worst Manga of 2008–2009— What was the best, worst and weirdest manga published in the last year? Sparks will fly as manga critics Deb Aoki (manga.about.com), Kai-Ming Cha (Publishers Weekly), Ed Chavez (marketing director, Vertical Inc.), Gia Manry (Anime Vice), Tom Spurgeon (The Comics Reporter), Jason Thompson (Manga: The Complete Guide), and Eva Volin (chair, Great Graphic Novels for Teens) give the thumbs up and thumbs down in this “Manga State of the Union Address.” It’s Siskel & Ebert, Overlooked Manga Festival, and a manga celebrity roast all in one! Room 3
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books

4:30-5:30 Imagination in Illustration: a Brief History of Fantastic Art— Catch Comic-Con special guest Charles Vess’s intriguing visual presentation on the history of Fantastic Art (1850 to present day). Featuring his favorite English fairy tale artists, American pulp masters and visionary painters, many not found in textbooks. Prepare to be swept away. Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy

4:30-5:30 The Halo Franchise: What’s Next— Frank O’Connor (franchise development director for Halo) will be joined by a number of special guests to discuss how Halo is evolving into a robust entertainment franchise and what’s coming in the future. Room 6BCF
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Games | Movies

4:30-5:30 Workshop: Creating Creator-Owned Comics the Image Comics Way— Want to bring your own vision to comics? Learn how from the people who do it best! Image founder Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk) and Image luminaries Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants), John Layman (Chew), Jimmie Robinson (Bomb Queen), Steve Seagle (Soul Kiss), and Richard Starkings (Elephantmen) present an unprecedented workshop with an insider look at the creative process and tips on perfecting your pitch. This program will also include a Q&A session giving you the chance to directly talk to many pros who have made their dreams a reality! Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 TwoMorrows Publishing Today— Join the crew from TwoMorrows Publishing for a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating all their fan-favorite books and magazines on the art and history of comics (and now, LEGO too!) Publisher John Morrow and a bevy of authors and editors will take part in a video presentation, unveiling new products and offering exclusive previews of upcoming items! Room 30AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books

4:30-5:30 Drawing Upon Reference— Ron Lemen (ImagineFX magazine) and Studio 2nd Street Group will cover the subject of photo reference and how to use it when you have to use it. This lecture will briefly cover the do’s and dont’s of copying photos for your illustration work and some basic guidelines for drawing an effective image. Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

4:45-5:45 Legend of the Seeker— A sneak peek at the highly anticipated second season of the action-adventure series Legend of the Seeker from executive producers Ken Biller (Star Trek: Voyager), Sam Raimi (Spider-Man), Rob Tapert (Xena), Ned Nalle (Hercules), and Josh Donen (Drag Me to Hell) and starring Craig Horner, Bridget Regan and Bruce Spence. Inspired by Terry Goodkind’s bestselling epic fantasy series The Sword of Truth, Richard, Kahlan and Zedd will soon discover that after defeating Darken Rahl, they inadvertently opened a rift into the underworld. Premiering in November, join a few of the executive producers, cast members, and Terry Goodkind for this moderated interview and audience Q&A session! Room 6DE
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:45-5:15 Terry Gilliam’s The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus— Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of both Comic-Con and Monty Python, we welcome the sole American Python, the great animator and director Terry Gilliam (Time Bandits, Brazil, 12 Monkeys) to introduce you to his new film starring Christopher Plummer, Johnny Depp, Heath Ledger, Colin Farrell, Jude Law, Verne Troyer, Tom Waits, and Lily Cole. Dr. Parnassus is a fabulous anachronism, touring the streets of modern-day London in a horse-drawn carnival wagon accompanied by his beautiful daughter, devoted dwarf, and neophyte barker. On stage Parnassus plays a holy man whose Imaginarium can realize the innermost fantasies of all who dare to enter. Backstage, he is a drunkard, a gambler who centuries ago lost a wager with the Devil and must now pony up with his daughter once she turns sixteen. Tomorrow. Yet, there may still be hope for the Doctor and Valentina in the person of Tony, a well-dressed amnesic they rescue from a perilous fate and invite into their world of unrelenting magic and possibility. Hall H
Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:00-6:00 The Pitching Hour— Michael Polis (CEO, WildBrain Ent, Yo Gabba Gabba), Jermaine Turner (director, Disney/ABC Cable Networks Group), Derek Hoffman (Donner Company, X-Men), Ford Gilmore (president, Illuminati Ent.), Paula Gould (PEG PR), and moderator Dan Evans (writer/development executive) take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining agents, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical example and humorous stories, the process that new creators should adapt to make their way into the Hollywood creative battleground. Knowing that each project is unique, there will be a Q&A to allow the audience to really hone in on the solutions to obstacles they may encounter. Also on hand is Brendan McFeely (Kane Kessler, IP lawyer) to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood! Room 2
Categories: Animation | Comics Law School | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 DC JSA: The Great Society— DC’s legendary super-team enters a new era with top talent and explosive storylines in the second half of 2009! Get the inside scoop on everything JSA right here, including info on the exciting spin-off title Magog and the main series Justice Society of America from the creative minds behind the franchise. Hosted by DC’s senior group editor, Mike Carlin, with top talents Bill Willingham (JSA), Matt Sturges (JSA), Freddie Williams (Final Crisis Aftermath: Run), Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Jimmy Palmiotti (Power Girl), and more! Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

5:00-6:00 Spotlight on Lew Sayre Schwartz— One of the fan-favorite artists of Batman in the ’40s and ’50s, Lew Sayre Schwartz is a Comic-Con special guest. Schwartz left comics to forge an incredible career in animation, filmmaking, and advertising, for which he won numerous awards. Cartoonist and Bat-fan Batton Lash (Supernatural Law) interviews Lew about his life and times in comics and beyond. Room 8
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes

5:00-6:00 Indie Cartoonist Survival Guide— With the dismal economic forecast not letting up, how does your average indie cartoonist manage to thrive? Join moderator Keith Knight (the Knight Life, the K Chronicles, (th)ink), as he and his peers share experiences of how they’ve managed to navigate the economic downturn. A must for all struggling cartoonists (and the folks who love them)! Featuring Shannon Wheeler (New Yorker, The Onion, Too Much Coffee Man), Lark Pien (Long Tail Kitty, colorist: American Born Chinese), Dave Kellett (Sheldon, How to Make Webcomics), Jim Mahfood (GRRL Scouts, 40 oz. Comics, Colt 45), Paul Friedrich (Onion Head Monster), and Miriam Libicki (Jobnik). Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Webcomics

5:00-6:00 Showtime: Dexter— Calling all Dexter fans! If you’re a Dexter fanatic and can’t wait for the new season, you don’t want to miss this killer panel! Moderator Ralph Garman (KROQ Entertainment Reporter) presides over a revealing interview and Q&A session with the stars and executive producers of Dexter. Plus, get an exclusive first look at clips from the new season! Featured panelists include series star/executive producer Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Julie Benz (Rita), Jennifer Carpenter (Deb), and executive producers John Goldwyn, Sara Colleton, Clyde Phillips, and Melissa Rosenberg. The new season premieres September 27 at 9:00 PM EST/PST only on Showtime! Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Television

5:15-5:45 Overture Pictures: Pandorum— Don’t fear the end of the world. Fear what happens next. From the producers of the Resident Evil film franchise comes a terrifying thriller in which two crewmembers wake up on an abandoned spacecraft with no idea who they are, how long they’ve been asleep, or what their mission is. The two soon discover they’re actually not alone—and the reality of their situation is more horrifying than they could have imagined. Appearing in person to give you a taste of Pandorum are stars Ben Foster (X-Men: The Last Stand, 3:10 to Yuma, 30 Days of Night), Cung Le (The Ultimate Fighter), and Antje Traue. Pandorum is in theaters September 18. Hall H
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:30-6:30 Manga: Lost in Translation— Computer translation programs may be all the rage of board rooms and the Internet, but it still takes a human translator and editor to get readers the kind of quality of translation that they demand of their comics, novels, and animation. A panel of distinguished translators, editors, and industry specialists tell how it’s done! William Flanagan (xxxHOLiC), Jonathan Tarbox (Black Cat), Jason Thompson (Manga: The Complete Guide), Mari Morimoto (Naruto), Stephen Paul (Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad), Mark Simmons (Consultant for Bandai Entertainment) and Julie Davis (former editor-in-chief of Animerica Magazine) offer industry stories and Q&A. Room 3
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Writing for the Computer Gaming Industry— Great storytelling forms the foundation for immersive games that emotionally draw players into a gaming universe. Veteran game writers Neal Hallford (Betrayal at Krondor, Dungeon Siege), Chris Avellone (Knights of the Old Republic, Neverwinter Nights II), Anne Toole (The Witcher), Wynne McLaughlin (Star Wars: The Old Republic, Command & Conquer: Renegade), Haris Orkin (Call of Juarez 2: Bound In Blood), and John Zuur Platten (F.E.A.R 2: Project Origin, Ghostbusters) engage in a lively discussion of their art. Moderated by Jana Hallford (co-author of Swords & Circuitry: A Designer’s Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games). Room 4
Categories: Games | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Uncharted 2: Among Thieves: The First Active Cinematic Videogame— Representatives from Naughty Dog, the premiere Playstation 3 developer, discuss how they utilize the Naughty Dog 2.0 engine to hit a turning point in technology innovation by recreating reality and capturing human emotion. Creative director Amy Hennig and various cast members of Uncharted 2: Among Thieves discuss how for the first time, through high-quality cinematic presentation of scenes, characters, and dialogue, players become an active participant in the cinematic experience. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Games | Movies | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Cartoon Books & Abstract Studios Happy Hour with Jeff Smith and Terry Moore— The perfect way to spend your first happy hour at Comic-Con! Don’t miss your chance to chat with indie icons Jeff Smith and Terry Moore as they talk about new projects, upcoming appearances, and sharing a booth at this year’s Comic-Con. Plus, Jeff will be making a special announcement! Room 7AB
Categories: Comic Books | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Graphic Novel Programming in Libraries— Words of wisdom from Librarian Fanboys and Fangirls on ways to make your collection rock the house! It’s life in the dork lane when librarian nerds become comic book geeks. How can a fan transcend life-long Universe loyalties to build a balanced collection? How do you fight back when your cataloging department thinks all superhero titles are for teens? Is it really possible to have a graphic novel book club? Get tips on starting graphic novel clubs, running workshops on cartooning, hosting author visits and much more. Moderated by Snow Wildsmith with Robin Brenner, Hillary Chang, Mike Pawuk, Jill Patterson, and Nick Smith. Room 30AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops

5:30-6:30 The Physics of Hollywood Movies— Join physics instructor Adam Weiner (author of Don’t Try This at Home! The Physics of Hollywood Movies) for an interactive presentation employing basic physical principles and a sense of humor in analyzing scenes from favorite Hollywood science fiction, superhero, and action movies, from Iron Man to 2001: A Space Odyssey, and actually learn the physics behind them—both good and bad! Room 30CDE
Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

5:30-6:30 All-Stars of Comics Podcasting— Comics podcasting has grown from a novelty to a force within the industry, providing an outlet for reviews, interviews, news and general entertainment for comic book fans. Comic book podcasting veterans Jimmy Aquino (Comics News Insider), Brian “Pants” Christman (Comic Geek Speak), and Ron Richards (iFanboy) discuss the future of comics podcasting. You never know what may happen in podcasting—some special surprise guests may be making appearances! Plus, this is your chance to meet and talk to your favorite podcasters! Room 32AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Fandom | Webcomics

5:45-6:45 Spotlight on John Kricfalusi— He’s the wild man of animation, the groundbreaking genius behind Ren & Stimpy and The Ripping Friends, whose creations have become inspiration for practically every animated show on TV today. John Kricfalusi (AKA John K) is a Comic-Con special guest and in this Spotlight event he’ll talk about his career in animation and what’s coming next. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television

5:45-6:45 Kick-Ass— World premiere footage from Kick-Ass, based on Mark Millar’s bestselling comic, is presented by director Matthew Vaughn (Stardust, Layercake). Joining him on the panel are Nicolas Cage, Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Superbad), and comic co-creator John Romita Jr., among others, including a surprise guest. You don’t want to miss the chance to be the first to experience this gritty, brash, and funny actioner. Hall H
Categories: Comic Books | Movies

6:00-7:00 Del Rey: Terry Brooks— Bestselling author Terry Brooks (The Sword of Shannara) discusses his return to the Magic Kingdom of Landover series with the August release of A Princess of Landover, as well as what’s next in the Shannara series. Plus highlights from the upcoming Del Rey and Spectra lists. Moderated by Betsy Mitchell (editor-in-chief, Del Rey). Room 2
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

6:00-7:00 Vertigo New Ongoing Series/Crime Line— It’s a new beginning for Vertigo with the launch of such ongoing titles as The Unwritten, Greek Street, and Sweet Tooth. In addition to these titles DC will be launching the highly anticipated Vertigo Crime Line with some of the top talents in the industry. Moderated by senior VP/executive editor, Vertigo, Karen Berger and senior editor Will Dennis, this panel is not to be missed, especially considering the talent present: Peter Gross (Unwritten), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth, The Nobody), Jason Starr, Chris Gage, Gabriel Bá, Fábio Moon, and others! Room 5AB
Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense

6:00-7:00 Mad Science: The Science Behind Science Fiction— Discover magazine and the National Academy of Sciences’ Science and Entertainment Exchange explore science as a double-edged sword—it’s ethically and morally neutral in and of itself, but science depends on who wields it and how. Join moderator Phil Plait (Discover magazine contributing editor and blogger), Jaime Paglia (co-creator and executive producer of Eureka), Kevin Grazier (science consultant, Eureka, Virtuality), Jane Espenson (executive producer, Dollhouse, Battlestar Galactica, Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Rob Chiappetta and Glenn Whitman (staff writers, Fringe), and Ricardo Gil da Costa (neuroscientist and consultant on Fringe) for a lively and fun discussion on science used for good vs. evil. Followed by Q&A. Room 6DE
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

6:00-7:00 Devil’s Due Publishing— Company president Josh Blaylock (Mercy Sparx) details what’s to come in the ‘09–’10 Devil’s Due lineup! Find out about Blaylock’s new Mercy Sparx series, and get a preview from Tim Seeley on what’s in store for Cassie Hack in the fan-favorite Hack/Slash. Members of Suicide Girls offer a sneak peek at an upcoming DDP project, and special guest Murs discusses his new comic collaboration with Josh Blaylock! Room 8
Categories: Comic Books

6:00-7:00 Neko Press 10th Anniversary Panel— Billy Martinez, publisher and creator for Neko Press, will discuss what it takes to keep an independent company going with the changing times. Billy will discuss the many books and stories that came out of his 10-year-old company. A great panel for aspiring artists and anyone interested in moving into the field of comics and art. Room 10
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books

6:30-7:30 Bandai Entertainment— Code Geass R2, Gundam 00, Akira Blu-ray, Lucky Star OVA: these are just some of the exciting anime coming from Bandai Entertainment in 2009! Bandai Entertainment’s president Ken Iyadomi and director of marketing Robert Napton highlight current and upcoming releases, with news and a few giveaways! Room 3
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga

6:30-7:30 Unlocking Arkham: Forensic Psychiatry and Batman’s Rogues’ Gallery— Arkham Asylum holds some of Gotham City’s most disturbed criminals. But do they truly belong there? From the vantage point of a forensic psychiatrist utilizing real-world psychiatric diagnostic criteria, panelists explore the mental disorders of the Dark Knight’s Rogues’ Gallery, with in-depth analyses of The Joker, Two-Face, Riddler, The Ventriloquist, Mad Hatter, and Mr. Zsasz, among others. Learn as three psychiatrists explain the meaning of such terms as “psychotic,” “not guilty by reason of insanity,” and “psychopathy.” Bring your questions, and join the fun as experts unlock Arkham Asylum and possibly set free some of its “inmates”! Panelists include H. Eric Bender, M.D., University of California, Los Angeles; Praveen Kambam, M.D., University Hospitals/Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio; and Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Room 4
Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 The Clockwork Girl: From Concept to Comic and Beyond— Sean O’Reilly (Kade) and Kevin Hanna (16 Miles to Merricks) released The Clockwork Girl back in 2007, and the comic book series has gone on to be collected as a hardcover winning The Moonbeam Award for Top Children’s Graphic Novel and Foreword magazine’s Top Graphic Novel of the Year; it’s also received funding for feature film development. Sean and Kevin discuss how they came up with the concept, describe the risks and rewards of self-publishing, and showcase a short teaser of The Clockwork Girl animated film. Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies

6:30-7:30 The Anthropology of Star Trek— Daryl Frazetti (Department of Anthropology, Lake Tahoe Community College), Ian Morris (UCSB student), John Stivers, Jacob Hurd, and Kanan Miller (Lake Tahoe Community College students) discuss the anthropological themes in the Star Trek universe. Select themes include such topics as politics, religion, identity, technology, the cultural role of the individual, and the anthropological concept of “race.” A brief discussion on the subculture of fandom is also included, along with the cultural impact of Trek. Audience participation is encouraged. This presentation spans the franchise and explores the relationship between Star Trek and society throughout the past four decades. Room 30AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Television

6:30-7:30 10 Other Ways to Break in as a Comic Creator— “Come back when you have a published credit.” Sound familiar? How do you get your first professional break as a comic creator when all the studios are looking for “experience”? Creative director Jessica Leigh Clark-Bojin (Zeros 2 Heroes Media) offers some new options. Room 30CDE
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

6:30-7:30 The Wonderful World of Computer Games in Japan— An overview of computer gaming as seen from Japan, with a focus on Japan’s amateur “doujin” games, dating-sims and games that explore themes of love, and an overview of recent trends in computer gaming in Japan, including “otome” games (games made specifically for girls) and other areas in which gaming in Japan differs from those in the West. Room 32AB
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Fandom | Games

6:30-7:00 Focus Features: Thirst— Focus Features and Comic-Con present a rare U.S. appearance by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook, whose “scandalous vampire melodrama” Thirst just won the Prix du Jury (Jury Prize) at the 2009 Cannes International Film Festival. Sang-hyun (played by top Korean star Song Kang-ho, of The Host) is a priest who cherishes life; so much so, that he selflessly volunteers for a secret vaccine development project meant to eradicate a deadly virus. But the virus takes the priest, and a blood transfusion is urgently ordered for him. The blood he receives is infected, so he lives—but now exists as a vampire. Sang-hyun soon plunges into a world of sensual pleasures, finding himself on intimate terms with the Seven Deadly Sins. Park will show clips from the movie— which opens in select cities on July 31—and discuss his career. Hall H
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies

6:45-7:45 Robotech Industry Panel— Tommy Yune, director of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles, and Steve Yun, writer of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles, discuss upcoming Robotech releases in the wake of the announcement of the live-action feature film. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

Nighttime Programs

7:00-8:00 The Antidote Trust— The Antidote Trust (TAT), America’s premiere indie collective, share more input on how they continue to produce comics that rival “the big boys” in quality, marketing, and distribution. Determined to do your own thing with the highest levels of professionalism? TAT can help you realize this goal. All members of TAT are strictly independent companies, producing comics, apparel, action figures—nearly everything in the industry. Panelists include B. Paul Husband, Esq. (general counsel for ASIFA-Hollywood), Lance Stahlberg (director, Haven Distributors), Richard Hamilton (Miserable Dastards), Andre Owens (Force Galaxia), Dani Dixon (13), Dale Wilson (Magnificent Creatures), Robert Roach (Menthu), and Paul Fusco (Soldiers of the Dead). Moderated by Geoffrey Thorne (Star Trek: Titan, Sword of Damocles). Room 5AB
Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Nighttime Programming

7:00-8:00 Comedy Central’s Drawn Together Movie Roundtable— Join co-creators Matt Silverstein and Dave Jeser and stars Foxxy Love, Cree Summer (Transformers: Animated) and Wooldoor Sockbat/The Jew Producer, James Arnold Taylor (Star Wars: The Clone Wars), as they discuss The Drawn Together Movie and host a roundtable discussion on the politics of religion in the workplace and where to get a decent sandwich. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming

7:15-9:15 Captain Cosmos and the Gray Ghosts— Comic-Con special guest Nicola Cuti—best known for his comics work at Charlton, including co-creating the fondly remembered E-Man—wrote and stars in this fun “old-time space opera.” Featuring the adventures of Captain Nick Cosmos (Nic Cuti) and his daughter, the volatile alien called Zen-Ya, along with the crew of his ship, The Bedevere. In this series of episodes the Bedevere is being haunted by two mysterious ghosts who leave clues of their identities. The exciting stories entertain, educate, and include clips from the space operas and cartoons of the 1950s. A treat for the entire family. Room 2
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Fandom | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

7:30-8:30 Geek Roundtable— Come join the funniest and most racially diverse group of geeks on the Internet in a discussion covering the World of Geek! Put in your two cents as a de facto member of the group. There will be special guests and prizes, and stories you’ll just have to take to your grave. Featuring Geekroundtable creator and moderator Ned Cato Jr., with panelists Chris and Mary Sturhann, producer Jesse Lopez, Patrick Roach, Matt Jeffery, Wesley Strawther, and Johann Joseph. Oh, and you, too! Room 10
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Fandom | Games | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television | Webcomics

8:00-10:00 Dr. Horrible’s Sing-along Blog— The California Browncoats host a screening of the original three acts, followed immediately by Commentary! The Musical. See why Joss Whedon’s (Dollhouse, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) first foray into webisodic “television” was the talk of the town with critics and fans alike in 2008. Be prepared for a night of singing and surprises hosted by the fans who know what you like best. Dr. Horrible stars Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Nathan Fillion (Castle, Firefly), and Felicia Day (The Guild) and is written by Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon (Dollhouse), Zack Whedon (Fringe), and Maurissa Tancharoen (Dollhouse). Room 6A
Categories: Comic Books | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

8:00-9:30 Green Lantern: First Flight World Premiere— Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Animation proudly present the World Premiere of Green Lantern: First Flight, the fifth DC Universe animated original PG-13 movie. Green Lantern: First Flight finds Hal Jordan recruited to join the Green Lantern Corps and placed under the supervision of respected senior Lantern Sinestro. The earthling soon discovers his mentor is actually the central figure in a secret conspiracy that threatens the philosophies, traditions and hierarchy of the entire Green Lantern Corps. Hal must quickly hone his newfound powers and combat the treasonous Lanterns within the ranks to maintain order in the universe. Christopher Meloni (Law & Order: Special Victims Unit) leads the cast as the voice of Hal Jordan aka Green Lantern. The cast includes Emmy Award nominee Victor Garber (Milk, Titanic), Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica), Michael Madsen (Reservoir Dogs), Juliet Landau (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and John Larroquette (Night Court). Produced by animation legend Bruce Timm, Green Lantern: First Flight is directed by Lauren Montgomery (Wonder Woman) and scripted by four-time Emmy Award–winning writer Alan Burnett (The Batman). Warner Home Video will release Green Lantern: First Flight on Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD on July 28, 2009. Ballroom 20
Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

8:15-11:15 Superhero Kung-Fu Extravaganza— Back by popular demand for a record 11th year! Martial art movie master Ric Meyers (Inside Kung-Fu) brings you eye-popping, jaw-dropping, all-new film fight action. You never know who might drop by, but even if only you do, it’ll be unforgettable. Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

9:30-12:00 Halloween Comes Early: Trick ‘r Treat Screening— Be among the first to see writer/director Michael Dougherty’s (Superman Returns, X2) creepy, darkly comic celebration of the scariest night of the year. Trick ‘r Treat takes the Creepshow/Tales from the Crypt approach to nefarious new depths with four interwoven tales set on Halloween night: a high school principal who moonlights as a vicious serial killer; a young virgin whose quest for that special someone takes a gruesome turn; a group of teens who carry out a cruel prank with disastrous consequences; and a cantankerous old man who battles a mischievous trick-or-treating demon. Prior to the screening, Ain’t It Cool News mogul Harry Knowles will moderate a panel featuring Michael Dougherty and members of the cast, including Anna Paquin (True Blood, X-Men), Tahmoh Penikett (Battlestar Galactica, Dollhouse), and Brian Cox (The Bourne Identity, X2). A collection of creepy stories that mixes fun with fear, candy with poison, and laughter with screams, the critically acclaimed Trick ‘r Treat will be released on Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD and On Demand by Warner Home Video in October. Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Nighttime Programming

Confused on all the relationships that have occured in the history of the X-Men universe?  This should clear things up…sorta.