I guess The Weinstein Company does. As you Know the Weinsteins have obviously made some bad decisions and now they aren't going to be able to float on their own anymore. So what have the done? According to Variety The Weinstein Company formed a partnership with Showtime and 'Scream 4' is part of the deal! They also are going to be making 'Piranha 3D' 'Scanners' Remake, 'The Seven Samurai', 'The Six Billion Dollar Man', 'Nine', and 'Inglorious Bastards'. They have some real winners in that film slate don't they? I am baffled by 'Scream 4' though! I seriously doubt anyone from the original 3 films will be back to reprise their roles. There are no details on the story but here is how I think it will all go down. It will be a new set of teenagers living in the same town with the legend of the original Ghost Face lingering in the air. Then one day a new Ghost Face appears and starts killing people once again. Randy would roll over in his grave if he found out they were making a Scream 4! You think the new kids will find a video diary that Randy may have kept to get them through the film, or will they end up throwing a new film geek in the mix? Maybe the Weinstiens should start making good movies again and marketing them right. 'Inglorious Bastards' is the only movie on the list I am looking forward to. Venkman Out!

Venkman here - I just wanted to let you know that the new trailer for 'Ghost Town' has hit the web! The movie Stars Ricky Gervais who is freakin funny! Greg Kinnear and Tea Leoni. The movie was written and directed by David Koepp who recently wrote 'Indiana Jones and the Kindom of the Crystal skull'... so... you know. The movie looks like it could be really funny, at the same time it looks like "one of those movies". The only reason I will see this movie is its got Ricky Gervais in it and the role looks funny. Not sure how the movie as a whole will turn out though. Here is a little summary from IMDB:

In the romantic comedy "Ghost Town," Bertram Pincus (Ricky Gervais), is a man whose people skills leave much to be desired. When Pincus dies unexpectedly, but is miraculously revived after seven minutes, he wakes up to discover that he now has the annoying ability to see ghosts. Even worse, they all want something from him, particularly Frank Herlihy (Greg Kinnear) who pesters him into breaking up the impending marriage of his widow Gwen (Téa Leoni). That puts Pincus squarely in the middle of a triangle with spirited result.

Now go and check out the trailer by clicking on the Picture, which will take you to the Ghost Town movie website!

Venkman Here and Jon Heder is at it again! He is once again going to play the same guy he has played in every movie he has been in so far but this time he will have nerdy super powers. ~Sigh~ I don't know. I like Napoleon Dynamite but he has played that same character in every movie it just isn't funny anymore. Jon heder needs to reinvent himself somehow, if he can.  So 'Loudermilk' has been set up to be made over at Rogue Pictures, and Craig Zobel has been set to re-write the screenplay and direct the film.

"Loudermilk" centers on a Napoleon Dynamite-like oddball who becomes contaminated with a substance that gives him what might arguably be considered superpowers. "That blessing does not come without its consequences and costs," Doug Heder said.

Oh brother. Its the Super Dynamite! Doug Heder is Jons Bro. They are producing the film throught their production company Greasy Entertainment. Variety also reports:

" 'Loudermilk' is definitely intended to set the tone for Greasy Entertainment," Doug Heder said. "Our goal has always been to be the low- to midbudget-range comedies. We want to specialize in that field -- obviously tapping into Jon's core audience from 'Napoleon Dynamite' and 'Blades of Glory' but really specializing in those kind of character-driven, less-expensive comedies."

Well, Whatever. I am obviously not excited at all about this movie. It looks like Jon has no intentions of reinventing himself. He will be Napoleon Dynamite the rest of his career. I would hate to get stuck as a type cast. But! He will keep doing it as long as the money keeps rolling in. Maybe I am just in a negative mood. What do you think? Is this a good movie idea or a bad one?

This is a movie I can't wait to see! I got the opportunity to read though the script yesterday thanks to our friends at Gone Elsewhere for making my wish come true. I loved this script! It was so freakin awesome! 'Inglorious Bastards' is going to be Quentin Tarantinos best movie of his career! I blazed through the script in about 2 hours. I was pulled right in the story and it never let me go. The characters that Tarantino builds in the story are the best he has ever created! The movie is very much going to be made in Tarantino fashion. He is going to play with different film styles and the way the script was written reveals how he has a couple different stories going on and in the end they all come together to create all kinds of chaos. After reading the script I understand what Tarantino meant when he talked about making 'Inglorious Bastards' a modern WWII movie. It is all in the style he wants to use. The dialogue used in the film is brilliant it is so fun to read I can only imagine how it will be executed on screen! I really don't want to ruin anything for anybody so I am not going to talk about the amazing story that the script tells but I do want to tell you about a few characters in the story: Col Lada a.k.a The Jew Hunter - This guy is a piece of work. He can be very pleasant, but is evil as hell. He explains his nick name himself:

"The feature that makes me such a effective hunter of the Jews, is, as, opposed to most German Soldiers, I can think like a Jew. Where they can only think like a German or more precisely, a German Soldier. Now if one were to determine what attribute the German people share with a beast, it would be the cunning a predatory instinct of a hawk..."

Lt. Aldo Raine a.k.a Aldo the Apache - He is the leader of The Bastards and you can't help but love this hick. I would really like to see Brad Pitt take this role.

"...I got a word of Warning to all would-be warriors. When you join my command, you take on debit. A debit you owe me, personally. Every man under my command, owes me one hundred Nazi scalps. And I want my scalps. And all y'all will git me, one hundred Nazi Scalps, taken from the heads of one hundred dead Nazi's... or you will die trying."

Sgt. Donnie Donowitz a.k.a The Jew Bear - This is my favorite character. Here is a guy that bought a Baseball bat before he went to war to beat Nazis with!

"I'm going through the neighborhood. If you have any loved ones in Europe, who's safety you fear for, I'd like you to write their name on my bat."

Shosanna - A Jewish girl in hiding from that Nazis. She runs a movie theater that shows German films. That is all I really want to reveal to you guys. I would tell you more but I don't want to ruin the movie for you. There are just so many details that go into the characters that make the story so amazing. If you want to know more then you will have to read the script yourself! And I just want to say that I absolutely love the ending of this script! I had such a fun time reading ‘Inglorious Bastards' and imagining what the movie is going to be like. It is going to be one hell of film!

Venkman Here - Paramount Pictures is moving forward with the sequel to School of Rock , which will be called 'School of Rock 2: America Rocks'. And yes everyone is back to work their magic! Jack Black will reprise his role, Richard Linklater who directed the first film will also direct this sequel, and Mike White will write the screenplay. Here is what Variety reports:

Mike White, who penned the 2003 comedy, is writing the screenplay, titled "School of Rock 2: America Rocks," which picks up with Finn leading a group of summer school students on a cross-country field trip that delves into the history of rock 'n' roll and explores the roots of blues, rap, country and other genres.

Sounds like it will be fun and educational. I thought the first film was great! But I really don't feel the need for a second School of Rock film. I am sure I will end up seeing it, but it is nothing I am getting overly excited about. Like any movie that goes into production I hope its good and ends up better than the first one.

Venkman here! Well that does it folks! We have the full schedule to Comic-Con 2008 and there is so much awesome geek stuff going on I can hardly contain myself! I can't wait to get down to San Diego this year! All the highlights are in Red. Remember we will be giving out Free GeekTyrnat T-shirts so if you see us wearing them stop us and ask for one! We will also be doing short quick updates throughout the days from Comic-Con so check in for the latest details if you wont be able to make it to the Con! here is the Sat schedule! Plan ahead!Saturday, July 26 Last changed: Sat, Jul 12, 11:30pm

Saturday July 26th 2008

  10:00-11:00 Spirituality in Comics - Spiritual themes weave a significant pattern in the story arc of our comics worlds. Hear from distinguished guests Cory Edwards (writer/director, Hoodwinked, Fraggle Rock: The Movie), Holly Golightly (School Bites, Sabrina the Teenage Witch), Scott Wong (co-founder, Brethren Entertainment), and P.C. Hamerlinck (Alter-Ego). Moderated by Leo Partible (Behind the Screen: Insiders on Faith, Film & Culture). Room 2 Categories: Comic Books 10:00-11:00 Spotlight on Forrest J Ackerman- The mayor of Horrorwood, Karloffornia returns to Comic-Con after a two-year absence. The beloved Forry celebrates the 50th anniversary of his seminal movie monster magazine, Famous Monsters of Filmland. Room 3 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 10:00-11:30 The Black Panel '08- This is not the year to miss the Black Panel, and you know why! Featuring Method Man (The Wu Tang Clan), Reggie Hudlin (president, B.E.T.), Denys Cowan (B.E.T. Animation, "The Origin of the Joker"), Rusty Cundieff (director, Chappelle's Show, Fear of a Black Hat) John Dokes (Marvel Comics), Dwayne McDuffie (Milestone Media, Justice League, Ben 10), and Faith Cheltenham (Tor.com). This is the definitive panel for what's up in black and hip hop culture-and what a year it has been! Look out for some surprise guests. Hosted by Michael Davis (The Underground, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Black People, But Were Afraid to Ask). Room 5AB Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Superheroes | Television 10:00-11:00 Marvel: Iron Man: Armored Adventures Animated Screening- Tony Stark, heir to a billion-dollar corporation, lives a life of luxury, free to pursue his chief interests-seeking extreme thrills, solving scientific mysteries and creating mind-boggling inventions. But everything goes horribly wrong when a tragic accident robs Tony of his father and nearly costs him his own life. Now dependent on his own impressive technology for survival and dedicated to battling corruption, Tony must reconcile the pressure of teenage life with the duties of a superhero. Inside his remarkable invention, Tony Stark is geared for high-speed flight, high-tech battles and high-octane adventure! He is Iron Man. Meet Josh Fine (Marvel Studios), Christopher Yost (head writer), and others involved with this exciting new animated series and watch an episode of Iron Man: Armored Adventures before its Nicktoons 2009 premiere. Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 10:00-11:00 Nickelodeon's The Fairly Odd Parents: Past, Present, and Future- Help celebrate the 7 years of Fairly OddParents magic, as creator Butch Hartman (Danny Phantom), co-executive producer and story editor Scott Fellows (Johnny Test), and writer Kevin Sullivan (Danny Phantom) share some of their favorite moments from the past-and give you an inside look at the future of the series! You'll also be treated to an exciting live table-read performed by the stars of the show: voice of Timmy, Tara Strong; voice of Cosmo, Daran Norris; voice of Wanda, Susanne Blakeslee; and voice of Mark Chang, Rob Paulsen. Moderated by Rich Magallanes, executive director for Nickelodeon. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television 10:00-11:00 Looking at Our World: Eye on the Future- Speculative fiction authors discuss shaping the future through their fiction and shaping their fiction to the future. Panelists include Robert J. Sawyer (Rollback), Ann Aguirre (Grimspace), Tobias S. Buckell (Ragamuffin), William C. Dietz (When All Seems Lost), Alan Dean Foster (author of more than 100 books), Charles Stross (Saturn's Children), and John Zakour (Dangerous Dames). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 8 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 10:00-11:00 Emerging LGBT Voices- Prism Comics, the nonprofit organization that supports LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) comics, creators, and readers, also actively encourages and supports the movers and shakers who will shape tomorrow's comics industry. This year, Prism presents a panel of emerging LGBT comics powerhouses, including Ariel Schrag (Awkwar, Definition, Showtime's L Word), Joveth Gonzalez (editor, PinkKryptonite.com), Andy Hartzell (Fox Bunny Funny, The Book of Boy Trouble), Mari Morimoto (VIZ Media), Tommy Roddy (winner of the 2008 Prism grant for Pride High), and Rex Ogle (writer and DC Comics staff member). Room 10 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books 10:00-10:45 Futurama Secrets Revealed!- Join Futurama creator Matt Groening and executive producer David X. Cohen in a mind-blowing, jaw-dropping, fact-checking panel extravaganza! Appearing with Matt and David are series regulars Billy West (Fry, Professor Farnsworth, Dr. Zoidberg, Zapp Brannigan), Katey Sagal (Leela), John DiMaggio (Bender), and Maurice LaMarche (Kif, Morbo). And if that's not enough, enjoy color commentary from Eric Kaplan (co-executive producer, writer) and lots of insider straight dope from producer Claudia Katz and director Peter Avanzino of Rough Draft Animation. Plus, don't miss out on your chance to see the sneak peek of "Bender's Game," the all-new feature-length Futurama adventure, crash-landing on store shelves this November! Ballroom 20 Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television Sat, Jul 12, 10:07PM 10:00-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #9: Authority and the Construction of Truth: Science, Justice, and the Media- Sabrina Starnaman (University of California-San Diego) and Adam Streed (UCSD) examine how truth is constructed and power reified in Jonathan Hickman's The Nightly News. Matthew J. Brown (UCSD) and Adam Streed (UCSD) explore the problem of vigilante justice in Watchmen in the context of the relationship between state authority, legitimacy, and personal morality. Marisa Brandt (UCSD) and Evan Moreno-Davis (UCSD) assess the historical comics of Jim Ottaviani as a statement on the interplay between individual and collective authority within the scientific realm. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 10:00-11:30 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 creators who are looking to actually market their creations and ideas, including transfers and licensing of rights, marketing, merchandising, and distribution agreements, and what to do when Hollywood comes knocking. This interactive seminar gives attendees the opportunity to participate in the discussions as Lovitz covers various means for profiting from your creations and discuss important elements that form the foundation of every contract (and time permitting, maybe participate in a mock contract negotiation). With in-depth discussions about the options and opportunities for profit, as well as the problems and pitfalls that go hand in hand with each decision, you can't afford to miss this seminar. 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 | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Gaming | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing 10:15-11:15 Ben 10: Alien Force and The Secret Saturdays Sneak Peek- Join über-cartoon-creator-genius Glen Murakami and his crew as they discuss their hit new Cartoon Network show Ben 10: Alien Force. It's your chance to get the inside story on all the new alien heroes-and, of course, all the bad guys! Accompanying Glen are story editor Dwayne McDuffie and voice talents Yuri Lowenthal (Ben), Ashley Johnson (Gwen), Greg Cipes (Kevin), and Dee Bradley Baker (Aliens). And that's just half the excitement! Jay Stephens will also be on hand to talk about his mysterious and cool new show The Secret Saturdays. Room 6A Categories: Animation | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 10:15-11:15 Spotlight on Ralph Bakshi- On par with such auteurs as Walt Disney, Tex Avery, Chuck Jones, and art spiegelman, Comic-Con special guest Ralph Bakshi redefined animation and became a hero to countless generations of fans and filmmakers. His name is synonymous with the great tradition of American cartooning. Bakshi is responsible for such memorable films and television shows such as Fritz the Cat (the first X-rated animated feature film), The New Adventures of Mighty Mouse, Spider-Man, Heavy Traffic, Wizards, Cool World, and The Lord of the Rings, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Join Ralph Bakshi for a rare, in-person appearance as he discusses his legendary career. Moderated by Jon M. Gibson and Chris McDonnell, co-authors of Unfiltered: The Complete Ralph Bakshi, the only book chronicling the career of one of the pioneers of animation. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | 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! Panelists will discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, Minx, and Zuda. This informative orientation session will explain how DC's Talent Search works and provide numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. In order 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 10:45-11:30 The Simpsons- Entering into their record setting 20th season, The Simpsons debuted their first feature film in July 2007, grossing over $500 million worldwide. "The Simpsons Ride" opened in May 2008 at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida and Hollywood, California to great success. Now join the creative team behind this historic show and get the inside scoop on the upcoming season! Featuring Matt Groening (creator and executive producer); Al Jean (executive producer and head writer); Matt Selman (executive producer); Michael Price (co-executive producer); Matt Warburton (co-executive producer); Don Payne (consulting producer); Carolyn Omine (consulting producer); Mike Anderson (supervising director) and David Silverman movie and TV series director). Ballroom 20 Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Movies | Television 10:45-11:45 Heroes: Exclusive First Look at "Villains" and Q&A with the Entire Cast, Tim Kring, and Tim Sale- Heroes chronicles the lives of ordinary people who discover they possess extraordinary abilities. Watch an exclusive first look at "Chapter 3: Villains." Moderated by co-executive producer/comic book writer Jeph Loeb, participating in a Q&A session with creator Tim Kring, comic book artist Tim Sale (Batman: The Long Halloween), and the cast: Jack Coleman (H.R.G.), Greg Grunberg (Matt Parkman), Ali Larter (Niki Sanders), James Kyson Lee (Ando Masahashi), Masi Oka (Hiro Nakamura), Hayden Panettiere (Claire Bennet), Adrian Pasdar (Nathan Petrelli), Zachary Quinto (Sylar), Sendhil Ramamurthy (Mohinder Suresh), Dania Ramirez (Maya Herrera), Cristine Rose (Angela Petrelli), and Milo Ventimiglia (Peter Petrelli). Hall H Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 11:00-12:00 Spotlight on Ethan Van Sciver- His stunning visions of the Flash and Green Lantern have made him one of the most popular artists working in comics today. Comic-Con special guest Ethan Van Sciver talks about his work and what's next up on his drawing board. Room 2 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes 11:00-12:00 IDW Publishing: Ideas and Dreams 2008- DW publisher Chris Ryall presides over a superstar panel including writer Joe Hill; artists Gabriel Rodriguez (Locke & Key), Ben Templesmith (Welcome to Hoxford), and Darwyn Cooke (announcing a surprise new project and offering up an exclusive signature card available only at this panel); writers Brian Lynch (Angel: After the Fall), Steve Niles (Epilogue), Rick Remender (Legion of the Supernatural), and David Lapham; actors Shawnee Smith and Ken Foree; IDW special projects editor Scott Dunbier, and others. And they all guarantee at least a few surprise announcements of things to come! Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 11:00-12:00 Watching the Watchmen- Author and artist Dave Gibbons (Watchmen) and Entertainment Weekly writer Jeff Jenson discuss the hugely anticipated Watching the Watchmen with the book's designers Chip Kidd (Mythology, Jurassic Park, Batman Collected) and Mike Essl. Hear Dave Gibbons' account of the genesis of Watchmen in this exclusive interview and Q&A session! Includes a presentation of rare material from the upcoming book. Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Writers & Writing 11:00-12:00 Hellboy- Mike Mignola (Hellboy) and his long-suffering editor Scott Allie are joined by Josh Dysart (BPRD 1946) to talk and answer questions about recent events in the Hellboy books, the future direction of the series, and the first new comic Mike's drawn in three years. Also, an announcement about the newest artists to join the team. Room 8 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Superheroes 11:00-12:00 50th Anniversary Famous Monsters- It's a celebration of your favorite movie monster magazine! Famous Monsters of Filmland started in 1958, spiraling out of the huge interest in classic monster movies being shown on TV to a brand new audience. Editor/writer Forrest J Ackerman, who gave FM much of its charm and wit with his "punny" style of writing and amazing collection of photos and anecdotes, joins publisher James Warren, and Hollywood makeup artist Verne Langdon-whose incredible masks were a staple of FM's "company store," Captain Company, in the back of each issue-to talk about this big anniversary. Moderated by Phil Kim. Room 10 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Costuming | Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 11:15-12:30 Quick Draw!- It's the battle of the cartoonists, featuring the one artist who may be the match for the reigning champs! Join Sergio Aragonés (the world's fastest cartoonist), the quick-witted and quicker-penned Scott Shaw!, and the new kid, editorial and syndicated cartoonist Mike Peters (Mother Goose and Grimm), as they place their pens to paper to do their fastest, most clever work, while you watch them draw on the big screen. Host Mark Evanier puts them through their paces in one of Comic-Con's most popular annual events. Room 6CDEF Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire 11:30-12:30 Sam & Max, Strong Bad, and the Secrets Behind Turning Comics into Games- Sam & Max may have their roots in indy comics, but the crime-fighting duo is right at home starring in a successful series of episodic games. The cast of the popular Homestarrunner.com web cartoons are following suit this summer in Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People. Why do comics make for such great games? Telltale designers Mark Darin, Chuck Jordan, and Mike Stemmle, artist Mai Nguyen, and Sam & Max creator Steve Purcell will tell you all about the fun (and work) of bringing comics to life. Plus, get a first look at a third, completely new episodic game series! Room 4 Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Gaming | Webcomics 11:30-12:30 B.E.T. Animation- Don't get up, it's time for the second part of the "Black" block! Panelists include Reggie Hudlin (president, B.E.T.), Denys Cowan (senior V.P., B.E.T. Animation), Eric Rollman (president, Marvel Animation), Cort Lane (Marvel Animation), John Romita Jr. (way too many credits!) and some surprise guests who you will not want to miss. The Black Panther announcement was just the beginning... Room 5AB Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 11:30-12:30 Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles Screening and Q&A- Back for a second year at Comic-Con, the producers and stars of this hit action-adventure drama will debut the trailer for season two and answer questions from fans during this one-hour session. Executive producers Josh Friedman (War of the Worlds), John Wirth (The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr.) and James Middleton (Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines) will be joined by returning series stars Lena Headey (300), Thomas Dekker (Heroes), Summer Glau (Serenity), Brian Austin Green (Beverly Hills, 90210) and Richard T. Jones (Event Horizon), as well as new series regulars Garret Dillahunt (No Country for Old Men) and musician Shirley Manson (Garbage). Produced by C2 Pictures in association with Warner Bros. Television, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles returns for a second season September 8 and airs Mondays at 8:00 PM ET/PT on FOX. Room 6A Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 11:30-12:30 Image Comics/Tori Amos- 17 years ago, history was made at Comic-Con, when a kid gave Neil Gaiman a tape of her music. Now, Indie music icon and multiplatinum recording artist Tori Amos comes to Comic-Con to talk about Comic Book Tattoo, the new 480-page coffeetable-format anthology from Image Comics containing over 50 stories based on songs and music from her entire discography. Tori is joined by project editor Rantz Hoseley, as well as some of the contributing creators, including David Mack, Elizabeth Genco, Ted McKeever, and Kelly Sue DeConnick. Seating is limited, so be there early to hear Tori, the panel, and moderator Douglas Wolk talk about the long journey that resulted in one of the most exciting comics projects of the decade! Room 6B Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books Sat, Jul 12, 10:09PM 11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #10: Reinventing the Superhero- Charles Hatfield (CSU-Northridge) analyzes the tension between domestic storytelling and the technological sublime in Kirby and Lee's Fantastic Four. Dana Anderson (Maine Maritime Academy) examines how the popularity of the X-Men reflects an archetypal need for a reinvocation of mythic ideals of the Romantic Period. Seth Blazer (University of Florida) investigates the popularity of the superhero on the silver screen in the post-9/11 ideological marketplace. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Superheroes 11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Matt Busch with Drawing Demo- Notorious artist Matt Busch (Star Wars) spills a plethora of secrets on both drawing and how to break into the business. You can expect a brand new episode of How To Draw Star Wars to be shown, a look at The Worlds of Matt Busch art book, and some exclusive videos that go behind the scenes. Director Tracy Wayne (How To Draw Star Wars) will be joining Matt for a Q&A session, with other surprises planned! Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 11:45-12:45 Spotlight on Dean Koontz- Dean Koontz (In Odd We Trust) has had 48 novels on the New York Times bestseller lists, many in the number one position, and has been published in 36 languages. Find out more about what makes him tick in this talk and Q&A session. Ballroom 20 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 12:00-1:00 Dark Horse Comics- Dark Horse director of publicity Jeremy Atkins and a host of Dark Horse editors and creators present a firsthand look at the future of comics. You will be given insight into the next chapter of the breakout hit series The Umbrella Academy, as well as a look at what the future holds for all of your other favorite series and characters. With exciting announcements and surprise guests, you won't want to be anywhere else. Room 2 Categories: Comic Books 12:00-1:00 Spotlight on John Howe- Join acclaimed fantasy artist John Howe for an amazing look at his career, including never-before-seen concept artwork from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy and a Q&A session. Room 3 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy 12:00-1:00 Hasbro: Transformers- Aaron Archer and Jared Wade (Hasbro Design), and Michael Ballog and Jared Jones (Hasbro Marketing) present all the latest toys from the new Transformers Animated and Transformers Universe toy lines. See a sneak peek into what Hasbro is doing to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Transformers in 2009! Room 7AB Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Science Fiction & Fantasy 12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Howard Chaykin- One of the most popular writer/artists in comics celebrates the 25th anniversary of his signature creation, American Flagg! Comic-Con special guest Howard Chaykin discusses his career in comics and can be counted on to be candid in his views on comics and the industry. Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes | Television | Writers & Writing 12:00-1:00 The Writers Room: Writing Prime Time Animated Comedy- Join real live prime time animation writers as they recreate a TV animation rewrite room. Jokes will be "pitched," stories will be "broken," and lunch will be "ordered". Panelists: Eric Kaplan (Futurama, Malcolm in the Middle), Opus Moreschi (Li'l Bush), Dan McGrath (King of the Hill, The Simpsons), Bill Freiberger (Drawn Together, The Simpsons), Maiya Williams (The PJs, Mad TV), and Carolyn Omine (The Simpsons). Moderated by Patric M. Verrone (Futurama, The Simpsons). Room 10 Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television | Writers & Writing 12:00-1:00 Steampunk Fan Group 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 this is the place for you. Participants 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 12:00-1:00 Lost- If the most recent season finale was any indication of things to come, you will not want to miss this panel. Co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producer Carlton Cuse will discuss season 4 of Lost, leading up to the season finale. They will answer your questions and maybe even offer up some surprises of their own. Hall H Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Rutu Modan- Rutu Modan exploded into North American comics with her 2007 graphic novel Exit Wounds which immediately made her one of the top literary cartoonists from around the world. A portrait of modern Israel, a place where sudden death mingles with the slow dissolution of family ties, Exit Wounds was selected by Entertainment Weekly as the best comic of 2007 and made countless "best of" lists. At this program, Modan will visually present how she made the book and her comics with an engaging slide show that focuses on both Exit Wounds and her new short story collection Jamilti. Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 12:30-1:30 ABC Family's Kyle XY: Q&A with the Cast and Producer and First Look at Season Three- Kyle XY actors Matt Dallas (Babysitter Wanted) and Jaimie Alexander (Rest Stop) and producer Julie Plec (Scream 3) give fans a sneak peek at the exciting new season, in which lives are saved, secrets are exposed, and hearts are broken, as Kyle discovers that being a hero doesn't come without a price. Room 5AB Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 12:30-2:00 Cartoon Voices I- It's the first of two gatherings this weekend of actors who lend their voices to animation, as they discuss and demonstrate their craft. Co-hosts Mark Evanier and Earl Kress welcome Jason Marsden (Fairly OddParents, Loonatics Unleashed), Wally Wingert (The Garfield Show, Family Guy), Phil LaMarr (Justice League, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends), Alicyn Packard (The Mr. Men Show, World of Warcraft), TV legend Chuck McCann, Tom Kenny (SpongeBob SquarePants), and a few surprises. Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television 12:30-1:30 The Role of Anatomy in Training Master Artists- Marshall Vandruff shows how great comic and fantasy artists such as Wally Wood, Jack Davis, and Frank Frazetta learned anatomy before they were able to draw convincing figures from imagination. He'll show how the teachings and drawings of George Bridgman from the early 20th century continue to influence today's artists who want to master the human form. This is the first session of the Crash-Course in Artistic Anatomy that Marshall is teaching at The Art Institutes of California (San Diego and Orange County), beginning next weekend. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops 12:45-1:45 Exclusive Q&A with the writers of The Office- Meet the writers of the EmmyAward-winning comedy The Office and hear them talk about their favorite episodes, characters, and fun behind-the-scenes stories. Moderated by cast member Rainn Wilson (Dwight Schrute), panelists include executive producer/showrunner Greg Daniels (The Simpsons) and writers Jennifer Celotta (Andy Richter Controls the Universe), Michael Schur (Saturday Night Live), B.J. Novak, Lester Lewis (The Larry Sanders Show), Gene Stupnitsky (Year One), Lee Eisenberg (Year One), Mindy Kaling (Matt and Ben), Justin Spitzer (Scrubs), Ryan Koh (various commercials), and Anthony Ferrell (The Audacity). Room 6A Categories: Humor & Satire | Television | Writers & Writing 12:45-2:00 DC: A Guide to Your Universe- Dan DiDio (senior VP/executive editor, DCU), Jann Jones (senior coordinating editor, DCU), and Ian Sattler (senior story editor, DCU), and countless DCU talent gather for a panel that's not to be missed. Now that the Final Crisis is upon us, what lies ahead for your favorite heroes? Join Keith Giffen (Reign in Hell, Ambush Bug: Year None), Geoff Johns (Action Comics, Green Lantern), Aaron Lopresti (Wonder Woman), Brad Meltzer (DCU: Last Will and Testament), Grant Morrison (Batman, Final Crisis), Gail Simone (Wonder Woman), Phillip Tan (Final Crisis: Revelations), Peter Tomasi (Green Lantern Corps), Judd Winick (Titans), and others to get the answers. Room 6B Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 1:00-2:00 Aspen Comics in 2008 and Beyond- Join the Aspen Comics team of creators and artists as they highlight the upcoming Aspen products debuting in 2008 and beyond! Catch a exclusive glimpse of all the new Aspen Comics titles including Fathom, Soulfire, Shrugged, Executive Assistant: Iris and much much more! Featuring Peter Steigerwald (Soulfire), Ale Garza (Fathom), Micah Gunnell (Shrugged), JT Krul (Soulfire, Fathom), Vince Hernandez (Soulfire: Shadow Magic), Beth Sotelo (Soulfire), Mark Roslan (everything), David Wohl (Executive Assistant: Iris), and hosted by Frank Mastromauro (Shrugged). The Aspen crew will answer all your questions Aspen-related in a special Q&A session, so don't miss your chance to meet and greet with Aspen's finest. All fans in attendance will receive a gift courtesy of Aspen Comics. Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes 1:00-2:00 Diamond Select Toys: Minimates- Join Diamond Select Toys' director Chuck Terceira and the rest of the Minimate creators for a glimpse of what's to come for the number one block figure brand in the world. Ask you questions, make your requests and get a sneak peek at future Minimate designs! Room 3 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles 1:00-2:00 Will Eisner Tribute- A tribute to and panel discussion about legendary artist, cartoonist, educator, and entrepreneur Will Eisner, who played an important role in the growth of comics and sequential art from the Golden Age of Comics through the acceptance and dynamic growth of the graphic novel. Panelists include Michael Uslan (producer, Batman, The Spirit), Paul Levitz (publisher and president, DC Comics), Denis Kitchen (cartoonist, publisher, Eisner's agent), Carl Gropper (Eisner's nephew), Jon B. Cooke (editor, Comic Book Artist, educator), and Andrew D. Cooke (director/producer of Will Eisner: Portrait of a Sequential Artist). Room 8 Categories: Comic Books 1:00-2:00 Dollhouse- When news broke that Joss Whedon was returning to television with a vehicle for "Buffy" alum Eliza Dushku, legions of fans around the world rejoiced. Although most will have to wait until January to learn more about the exciting new project, Comic-Con fans will hear it straight from Joss and Eliza in person! Ballroom 20 Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 1:00-2:00 Podcasting Superheroes: The 10th Wonder and House of El Podcasts- Join hosts Derek Russell and Graham Hancock of the popular Starkville House of El (Smallville) and 10th Wonder (Heroes) podcasts for a discussion and Q&A session about producing fan-created podcasts and managing online communities. Room 24A Categories: Comic Books | Webcomics Sat, Jul 12, 10:11PM 1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #11: Twomorrows Publishing and The Academic Community- TwoMorrows Publishing is known for celebrating the art and history of comics, and the company has been making inroads into the academic community with its line of "how-to" books, magazines, and DVDs. Now, you can have your chance to hear, and to participate in, a dialogue with TwoMorrows to find out how to strengthen the relationship between the publisher and the academic community. What TM publications do you feel speak to you and your students, and what educational niches do you see that TwoMorrows can fill for the academic world? Publisher John Morrow, Danny Fingeroth (Write Now!) represent Twomorrows in this freewheeling exchange of ideas. Peter Coogan (institute for comics studies) speaks from the academic viewpoint. And Durwin Talon (Panel Discussions, Savannah College of Art and Design), and John Lowe (Working Methods, Savannah College of Art and Design) have a foot in both worlds. Q&A to follow. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 1:15-2:00 Spotlight on Tite Kubo- VIZ Media welcomes prolific manga (graphic novel) creator Tite Kubo for a series of rare in-person appearance. Mr. Kubo is the creator of the wildly successful manga series Bleach and ZOMBIEPOWDER. Both series are published domestically by VIZ Media, and Bleach is currently serialized in Shonen Jump. This is the first time the artist will appear at a North American convention. Mr. Kubo, along with his editor, Mr. Atsushi Nakasaki, will provide insight regarding his past, current, and future projects. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga 1:15-2:00 Warner Bros.: Terminator Salvation- In the highly anticipated new installment of The Terminator film franchise, set in post-apocalyptic 2018, Christian Bale stars as John Connor, the man fated to lead the human resistance against Skynet and its army of Terminators. But the future Connor was raised to believe in has been altered in part by the appearance of Marcus Wright (Sam Worthington), a stranger whose last memory is of being on death row. Connor must decide whether Marcus has been sent from the future or rescued from the past. As Skynet prepares its final onslaught, Connor and Marcus both embark on an odyssey that takes them into the heart of Skynet's operations, where they uncover the terrible secret behind the possible annihilation of mankind. Hall H Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 1:30-2:30 Comic Book Law School Afterschool Special: Gone But Not Forgotten!- Welcome to a very special episode of Comic Book Law School, as panelists explore the world of public domain, orphan works, and the loss of rights under U.S. intellectual property laws. In recent years, publishers have uncovered the comic book equivalent to the elephants' graveyard-characters long thought expired suddenly rising from ashes, spruced up and offered to the modern world. Trademarks abandoned or expired are now claimed by newcomers. The right of revocation places a cloud over previously clear ownership of intellectual property rights. Through the Orphan Works bill Congress has made a renewed attempt to provide guidance on works whose creators can't be identified: the ever-present, and often misunderstood, fair use doctrine. A panel of attorneys-David Branfman, Alexander Harwin, and David Lizerbram-join moderator Michael Lovitz to shed light on these cutting edge issues facing companies and creators and discuss the impact on the creative community of recent decisions and pending legislation in these areas. 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 4 Categories: Comic Books | Comics Law School | Writers & Writing 1:30-2:30 Things That Go Bump- Monsters and haunts continue to fascinate authors and readers alike. Authors who'll be talking about these supernatural themes include Joe Hill (Heart-Shaped Box), Max Brooks (World War Z, The Zombie Survival Guide), Adrienne Barbeau (Vampyres of Hollywood), Chris Marie Green (Vampire Babylon novels), Jeffrey J. Mariotte (River Runs Red), and Natasha Rhodes (Dante's Girl). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 5AB Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 1:30-2:30 SLG Publishing- SLG publisher and president Dan Vado discusses current and upcoming projects from SLG/Amaze Ink. Gargoyles writer Greg Weisman will be on hand to discuss his two new upcoming non-Gargoyles projects. Other creators attending are to be announced. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books 1:30-2:30 Writing 101: Creating Characters- Marv Wolfman has been writing comics for more than 40 years and has created such legendary characters as Blade, Bullseye, Black Cat, The New Teen Titans, Deathstroke The Terminator, and hundreds more. As he's done for the past four Comic-Cons, Marv conducts his personal writing seminar, this year discussing the art of creating characters. There will be time available for Q&A. Room 30CDE Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Writers & Writing 2:00-3:00 Warhammer Online- How do you take an entire universe with years of rich storytelling behind it and transfer it seamlessly-and in a compelling way!-to a new medium? EA Mythic's Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is giving the online gaming treatment to the celebrated Warhammer universe, and creative director Paul Barnett will talk about the challenges involved with satisfying the legion of Warhammer die-hards while also providing a solid and unique experience to MMORPG veterans. Room 2 Categories: Gaming 2:00-3:00 Attack of the Show!- Attack of the Show! is G4's irreverent interactive daily live "variety" show that paves the inside track to today's entertainment, technology and pop culture. Hosts Kevin Pereira, Olivia Munn, comic book expert Blair Butler and show producers give fans a rare opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how this show brings tech-obsessed viewers all the up-to-the-minute news on Internet culture, technology, comic books, gadgets, live events and more. Get a glimpse of a day in the life of a daily tech show. Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Gaming | Movies | Television | Webcomics 2:00-3:00 Comics: Across Every Medium- Paul Feig (creator of Freaks & Geeks), David Goyer (Batman Begins), Chip Kidd (The Learners), Whitney Matheson (USA Today's Pop Candy blog), and Brad Meltzer (The Book of Lies) are five superstars who make headlines in television, film, the graphic arts, journalism, and novels. But they all have comics in common. This isn't just a trend. Join them for a discussion on the influence comics play in their work. It'll be like a 21st century Breakfast Club-but with better references. Moderated by audiobook master Scott Brick (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant). Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing 2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Bryan Hitch- Superstar penciller Bryan Hitch, the artist with the wide-screen movie style, talks about his work on titles such as The Ultimates and Fantastic Four, plus his design work on Doctor Who and Star Trek 2009. Room 7AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy 2:00-3:00 Lettering Roundtable- Lettering is the invisible art's invisible art-a crucial element of comics that often tries not to call attention to itself. Potentates of penmanship, including 14-time Best Lettering Eisner Award winner Todd Klein (Fables), John Roshell (Astro City), Tom Orzechowski (Spawn), and others will discuss what's new and what's constant in the world of drawing words with moderator Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 2:00-3:00 Customizing Action Figure Fan Group- Join a group of customizers that includes toy industry professionals Justin Aclin (editor, Toyfare), Matt Doughty (Onell Design), Jesse DeStasio (Mezco Toyz), Eddie Wires (prototype painter for Marvel Legends), and Robert Torres (freelance mold maker, formerly of Art Asylum). From action figures to urban vinyl, all will be discussed. Pick their brains and get advice on how to take your customs to the next level. They will have their creations on display so bring your work as well, all scales, skill levels, all ages, all lines. Moderated by Jazwares art director and customizer Joe Amaro. Room 24A Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops Sat, Jul 12, 10:14PM 2:00-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #12: Poster Session- Want to go in depth with a comics scholar? On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the PowerPoint presentations of the poster presenters will be available to read in printed "poster books" and then the scholars will be present at the poster session to discuss their presentations in small-group and one-on-one discussions. Dave Chow (College for Creative Studies) argues for the importance of a post-secondary education for the visual artist. Anne Hoyer (University of Heidelberg) traces the linguistic and thematic changes of the popular Scottish comic strip Oor Wullie. Anita McDaniel (University of North Carolina-Wilmington) traces the effect of female creators on the superhero genre, both on the page and behind the pen. Clayton Moore (Apple Valley Unified School District) responds to the death of Captain America and the New Gods from a creator's rights perspective. Jarod Shurtleff (Henderson State University) examines the thematic loss of humanity among zombie fighters in Robert Kirkham's series The Walking Dead. Geek Chic poster panel: Kom Kunyosying (University of Oregon) analyzes the role of the geek as melodramatic hero in Charles Burns' Black Hole, R. Crumb's My Troubles with Women, and Chris Ware's Jimmy Corrigan; and Carter Soles (University of Oregon) argues that Kevin Smith's "dueling personas" of unapologetic comic book fan and aspiring cinematic artist have always worked together harmoniously to advance his career in both mediums. Comics and Psychology poster panel: A group of students from Henderson State University explore the psychology of comic book characters, including the Martian Manhunter, Batman, the Winter Soldier, Jamie Madrox, Warren Ellis' protagonists, and others; Erica Ash, Tommy Cash, Carly L. Cate, Mark Head, Nick Langley, Robert O'Nale, Justin Poole, Thomas Sepe, and Nicholas Ward present. Room 30AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Superheroes 2:15-3:15 Grant Morrison and Gerard Way: Born Under a Black Sun- Grant Morrison (The Invisibles) and Gerard Way (The Umbrella Academy) discuss death, death, and everything: comics, culture, the war on youth, and how you can fight back. This panel will change your life! Room 6B Categories: Comic Books | Writers & Writing 2:15-3:15 A Look Back and Forward at DC Universe Animated Original Movies- From the heralded premiere of Superman Doomsday through the unparalleled launch of Justice League: The New Frontier and the blockbuster release of Batman Gotham Knight, the DC Universe animated original movies have ignited a new passion for comic book fare within the made-for-DVD realm. DC Comics, Warner Premiere, Warner Home Video, and Warner Bros. Animation presents the creative forces behind these acclaimed films for a glance back at their resounding success, and the inside scoop on future DCU releases-including a Comic-Con exclusive first look at the next film in this exciting series! DC Comics senior VP-creative affairs Gregory Noveck moderates a panel that includes DC Comics president and publisher Paul Levitz, DCU films executive producer Bruce Timm, director Lauren Montgomery (Superman Doomsday), voice director Andrea Romano and, quite possibly, members of the voice talent behind the next superhero to grace the animated screen-in full color (well, at least red, white, and blue)! Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Superheroes 2:15-3:15 Battlestar Galactica- Last year, Battlestar Galactica took San Diego by storm. Now the best show on television returns to Comic-Con for a panel filled with excitement, laughter, and a sneak peek into the final revelation. Focusing on the character relationships that give this hit series its power, this exclusive panel sheds new light on the ties between Humans and Cylons and provides valuable insight into the adventure ahead. Panelists include cast members Tricia Helfer, James Callis, Michael Trucco, and Katee Sackhoff and executive producers Ronald D. Moore and David Eick, along with moderator Kevin Smith. Ballroom 20 Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 2:30-3:30 Dawn of War II and Deadly Creatures- From concept art to video games. Explore the richness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe and the inspiration behind Dawn of War II with Relic Entertainment's lead designer, Jonny Ebbert, and producer Mark Noseworthy. Rainbow Studios' art director Brent Ashe and concept artist Andre Kirk take you through the creepy concepts, art direction, and twisted innovation of Deadly Creatures. Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Gaming 2:30-3:30 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!" This year, Scott celebrates Herbie, The Fat Fury, now back in print from Dark Horse! 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, blast, blast!" [Okay, so I added those last two "blasts." -SS!] Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Humor & Satire 2:30-3:30 Del Rey Manga- Join Hiro Mashima (Fairy Tail), Dallas Middaugh (associate publisher, Del Rey Manga), and Mutsumi Miyazaki (director of licensing and acquisitions, Del Rey Manga), for a conversation on Mashima-sensei's latest creation, Fairy Tail. Room 10 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books 2:30-4:00 Painting Dynamic Portraits: Demonstration from Life- Nationally renowned portrait painter and fine artist Jeff Watts demonstrates oil portrait painting from a live portrait model. Jeff will discuss technique, methods and procedures as he demonstrates. A great program for anyone looking to work on furthering their skills and those who want to know more about where to obtain the strong fundamentals essential to becoming a working professional artist. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops 2:30-3:30 Disney Pixar: Bolt and UP- For superdog Bolt, every day is filled with adventure, danger and intrigue, at least until the cameras stop rolling. Be the first to see exclusive animation as directors Chris Williams and Byron Howard present the new 3D comedy-adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios! Then it's UP: From the inventive storytellers that have taken you into the worlds of space, toys, and superheroes comes the extraordinary adventure that will take you to a lost world where anything can happen, and everything will. Meet director Peter Docter (Monsters, Inc.) as he presents the first-ever look at Disney Pixar's new animated 3D adventure comedy, UP. Hall H Categories: Animation | Kids | Movies 3:00-4:00 Top Cow: Herd It Through the Bo-Vine- Members of the Top Cow Editorial staff and special guests will be on hand to discuss Pilot Season 2008, Broken Trinity, the Witchblade movie, The Darkness, and other exciting, upcoming projects. Panelists include Marc Silvestri (Cyberforce); Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov (Freshmen); Ron Marz and Stjepan Sejic (Witchblade); Phil Hester and Michael Broussard (The Darkness); William Harms (Bad Mojo), who will discuss his new Top Cow book, Impaler; and Randy Queen (Darkchylde), who will talk about his new series, Starfall. All attendees will receive a ticket for a special Freshmen signing with Seth Green and Hugh Sterbakov at the Top Cow Booth (#2329) after this program. Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Movies 3:00-4:00 The Launch of Abrams ComicArts- Abrams, the premiere art book publisher, debuts its launch of a new comics imprint, Abrams ComicArts. The panel consists of authors and representatives of each book on the initial list, including Jaime Hernandez (creator of Love and Rockets), Jordan Crane (designer), Craig Yoe (The Art of Mickey Mouse), Denis Kitchen (cartoonist, writer, editor, publisher), Nellie Kurtzman (daughter of Harvey Kurtzman), Brian Fies (Mom's Cancer), and Charles Kochman (senior editor, Abrams ComicArts) and will include a slide show and Q&A. Room 3 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books 3:00-4:00 Vertigo Voices Fables Forum- It's the Fables forum with extras: Featuring the creators behind Fables, Jack of Fables, and House of Mystery: Vertigo group editor Shelly Bond is joined by Bill Willingham, Mark Buckingham, and Matthew Sturges. It's a Q&A unlike any other, where you'd better come armed with your best questions, because all of the panelists are sure to be feeling giddy and very candid by day three of the big show. Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy 3:00-4:30 MAD in the '60s- Comic-Con special guests Sergio Aragonés, Al Feldstein, and Al Jaffee join Mark Evanier for this free-wheeling discussion about the go-go years of one of America's biggest publishing success stories, the one and only-but often imitated-MAD magazine! Room 8 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire | Writers & Writing 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 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 | Kids 3:15-4:15 Pushing Daisies Screening and Q&A- The cast and producers of the Golden Globe Award-nominated Pushing Daisies return to Comic-Con for a special screening of exclusive clips from the acclaimed show's upcoming season, highlights from the first season and a Q&A with fans. Stars Lee Pace (The Fall), Anna Friel (Land of the Lost), Chi McBride (Boston Public), Ellen Greene (Little Shop of Horrors), Swoosie Kurtz (Superman Doomsday), and Kristin Chenoweth (The West Wing) join executive producer/creator Bryan Fuller (Heroes) and executive producers Dan Jinks (American Beauty) and Peter Ocko (Dead Like Me) for the session, to be moderated by special guest and executive producer Barry Sonnenfeld (Men in Black). From Living Dead Guy Productions, The Jinks/Cohen Company in association with Warner Bros. Television, Pushing Daisies airs Wednesdays at 8:00 PM on the ABC Television Network. Room 6A Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Joe Staton- In this show-and-tell with Q&A, writer Mike W. Barr (The Outsiders) talks with fellow Comic-Con special guest, artist Joe Staton about Joe's nearly 40-year career, including his current project Femme Noir, his co-creation of E-Man, and lots of other stuff, including Hulk, JSA, LSH, GL, Guy Gardner, Batman, Huntress, those 100 issues of Scooby Doo, and the "New Look" Jughead. Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes 3:30-4:30 Xbox Creators' Showcase: Gears of War 2 and Fable 2- Join legendary videogame designers Peter Molyneux (Lionhead Studios) and Cliff Bleszinski (Epic Games) for a sneak peak at their highly anticipated holiday blockbusters, Fable 2 and Gears of War 2. Get a glimpse of these highly anticipated Xbox 360 exclusives, and have a chance to speak directly with Peter and Cliff during the Q&A session! Room 6B Categories: Gaming 3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Ray Bradbury- The legendary science fiction and fantasy author has been a perennial guest at Comic-Con since the first show in 1970. Ray Bradbury talks with interviewer Arnold Kunert about his career and what's up next. Room 6CDEF Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 3:30-4:30 VIZ Media Shojo Beat Surprises- A The biggest shojo manga magazine ever published in the United States and source of the most addictive shojo manga from Japan has some exciting announcements and special surprises for fans. Room 10 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Fandom 3:30-4:30 Chuck Screening and Q&A- Chuck executive producer Josh Schwartz (Gossip Girl), co-creator Chris Fedak, and stars Zachary Levi (Less Than Perfect), Yvonne Strahovski (Gone), Joshua Gomez (Invasion), Sarah Lancaster (Everwood), Ryan McPartlin (Super Capers), and Adam Baldwin (Serenity) return to Comic-Con for a Q&A to discuss the People's Choice Award-nominated action-comedy, and to screen an exclusive series highlight reel debuting new footage from the upcoming second season. Produced by College Hill Pictures, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Chuck airs Mondays at 8:00 PM on NBC. Ballroom 20 Categories: Humor & Satire | Television 3:30-4:30 The Society of Illustrators Los Angeles- The Society of Illustrators, Los Angeles (SILA) invites you to take part in a history-making announcement about comics and Illustration West 47, the largest illustration competition west of New York! Panelists include Scott Gandell (SILA president, illustrator), Tatiana EL-Khouri (VP/show chair, illustrator), Shiho Nakaza (VP/programs, illustrator), Vivian Nguyen (illustrator), Denys Cowan (B.E.T. Animation), and Mike Gold (editor, ComicMix.com). Moderated by Michael Davis. Room 30AB Categories: Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Webcomics 3:45-5:15 Universal: The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor and Death Race- Universal Pictures presents key cast members, filmmakers, and previously unseen footage from its upcoming slate, including Summer 2008's The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor and Death Race. Additionally, the studio will showcase talent and materials from 2009 films such as Land of the Lost and more. Hall H Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 4:00-5:00 Science of Superheroes- Jim Korokis (consulting physicist from Watchmen) moderates this presentation and Q&A on what makes superheroes work, science-wise. Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Superheroes 4:00-5:00 Costume Designers: Designing for Feature Films- Meet the women and men who are the costume designers on this year's blockbuster films. Panel moderator Mary Vogt (Men in Black, Batman Returns) will talk to fellow members of the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, Michael Wilkinson (Watchmen, 300), Michael Dennison (The Spirit, The Eye), Isis Mussenden (Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian), and Kym Barrett (Speed Racer). Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Costuming | Movies | Superheroes 4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Joe Hill- Comic-Son special guest Joe Hill, author of the New York Times bestseller Heart-Shaped Box, talks about his critically acclaimed comic Locke & Key (IDW) and why so many novelists are losing it for comics these days. Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 4:00-5:00 Devil's Due Presents: Milo Ventimiglia- Meet Heroes star Milo Ventimiglia and his Divide Pictures partner Russ Cundiff as they unveil pages from their new DDP series Rest. Writer Mark Powers joins them alongside a panel of DDP creators with big news about Devil's Due's expanding library of titles including Zen: Intergalactic Ninja, Spooks: Omega Team, and more. Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes 4:00-5:00 Lost Podcast with Jay and Jack- Jay Glatfelter and Jack Glatfelter have one of the oldest and biggest podcasts dedicated to ABC'S Lost with The Lost Podcast. Learn about the huge, dedicated online community for TV's most mind twisting drama. Join Jay and Jack for this special interview and Q&A session! Room 24A Categories: Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 4:00-5:30 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 learn firsthand and interact with some of the most accomplished members of the industry. Panelists include Michelle Rodriguez (Lost), Steve Blum (Wolverine), Lance Henricksen (Aliens), Tom Kenney (SpongeBob SquarePants), Hynden Walch (Teen Titans), Wendee Lee (Cowboy Bebop), and Mona Marshall (South Park). Room 30CDE Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television 4:30-5:30 The Story of an Image- Comic-Con special guests Kim Deitch (Shadowland), Jim Woodring (Frank), Jim Ottaviani (Two-Fisted Science), and Kyle Baker (Nat Turner) will each show and discuss a single comics panel from their own work-how it came together and how it resonates in its context. Moderated by Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 4:30-5:30 Marvel: Secret Invasion- The best-selling event of 2008 is at its midpoint. Come get your first look at what's in store and what's to come in the Marvel U when the dust settles...assuming there is a Marvel Universe when it's all done! Guests include Joe Quesada (editor-in-chief) and writers Greg Pak (Incredible Hercules), Chris Gage (Avengers: The Initiative), Chris Yost (Secret Invasion: Runaways/Young Avengers), Daniel Way (Deadpool), and others. Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes 4:30-5:30 Spotlight on Mike Peters- You may have seen them match wits at "Quick Draw!" earlier in the day. Now Mark Evanier and Pulitzer Prize winning editorial cartoonist Mike Peters sit down for an hour-long talk covering Mike's incredible career, including the hugely popular syndicated comic strip Mother Goose and Grimm (and cartoon show, better known as Grimmy). Room 8 Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television 4:30-5:30 Treasures of ASIFA Archive- Legendary animation director Ralph Bakshi along with ASIFA-Hollywood president Antranig Manoogian and ASIFA-Hollywood archivist Steve Worth will be screening rare films and discussing the finer points of story, animated filmmaking, and the history of animation and what it means to be an artist in today's world. Room 10 Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies 4:30-5:30 Action Figures Insider: Plastically Incorrect 2008- What happens when toy worlds collide? What would top toy makers say to each other if given the opportunity? Be a fly on the wall in this lively discussion between some of the leaders in the toy industry from companies both large and small. You will hear about how things get done, the state of the industry, and their tales of woe and triumph. Ask your own burning questions, and you just might walk away with a free toy! Moderated by Daniel "Julius Marx" Pickett of ActionFigureInsider.com. Room 30AB Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles 4:45-5:45 Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski- Yes, it's him again. Somehow-we have no idea how-he's gone from writing comics and TV to working with Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, Ron Howard, Paul Greengrass, Tom Hanks, the Wachowski Brothers, and Angelina Jolie. His long career (he's also known for Babylon 5, Twilight Zone, and others) stands as proof positive that there is no such thing as a just God. What's he up to now? What's coming next? What secrets remain yet untold? How did he achieve this (well, okay, we know that and let's just say it has something to do with a contract signed with Ba'al)? Come and ask the man responsible-J. Michael Straczynski-for Thor, The Twelve, and such upcoming movies ass Changeling, World War Z, Proving Ground, The Flickering Light, The Grays, and Lensman. Room 6B Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Television | Writers & Writing 4:45-5:45 SCI FI Eureka- SCI FI's hit summer series returns for its triumphant third season on Tuesday, July 29 (9:00 pm/8:00 pm Central). But first, fans can experience the quirky fun of America's smartest little town up close and personal by joining the cast and executive producers of Eureka for an exclusive Comic-Con discussion. Panelists include cast members Colin Ferguson, Salli Richardson-Whitfield, and Joe Morton plus co-creator and executive producer Jamie Paglia, executive producer Charlie Craig, and Tony Optican, SVP for original programming, SCI FI. Room 6CDEF Categories: Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 4:45-5:45 Fringe Q&A and Trailer Screening- J. J. Abrams (Lost), Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman-the team behind Mission: Impossible 3, Alias, and the upcoming Star Trek feature-join fellow Fringe executive producers Bryan Burk (Cloverfield) and Jeff Pinkner (Lost), as well as stars Anna Torv (The Pacific), Josh Jackson (Shutter), and John Noble (The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King), for an exclusive Q&A about one of the most anticipated new television series of the fall season, a drama that will thrill, terrify and explore the blurring line between science fiction and reality. The session will kick off with the screening of a trailer for the series. Television Week deputy editor and columnist Joe Adalian moderates. From Bad Robot Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Fringe premieres September 9 and airs Tuesdays at 9:00 PM on FOX. Ballroom 20 Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 5:00-6:00 The Dead Space IP- Ben Templesmith (30 Days of Night) and Antony Johnston (Wasteland) lead a panel that includes Chuck Patton, AJ Jothikumar and Joe Goyette (Dead Space animated feature) to discuss how graphic novels have become a vital component for top-tier entertainment brands and how multiple mediums (comics, games, and movies) have come together to create a holistic story. While famous comics have spawned successful movies, TV shows, and games, Electronic Arts' new sci-fi horror brand Dead Space has developed a comics series and animated feature to first introduce the universe to key opinion leaders and influencers. Panelists will discuss these new developments, what it takes to develop a successful brand that speaks to audiences across a variety of multimedia, and the implications for the future of the entertainment industry. Room 2 Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Gaming | Horror and Suspense | Movies 5:00-6:00 Oni Press Panelmonium 2008!- The most fun you'll ever have at a panel! See what all the hubbub is about at indy comics powerhouse Oni Press. Get sneak peeks at upcoming projects, news on new Oni Press initiatives, and Q&A with some of your favorite Oni Press creators. Oh, and did we mention prizes? There's going to be prizes and free comics, so come one, come all! It's panda-er, Panelmonium! Room 3 Categories: Comic Books 5:00-6:00 Legion of Super-Heroes 50th Anniversary- Fifty years ago, a trio of new super-heroes appeared on the cover of Adventure Comics no. 247. That humble beginning spawned the first great super team of the Silver Age of Comics: The Legion of Super-Heroes. Set in the 30th and 31st centuries of a DC Universe that may-or may not-happen, the Legion captured the hearts and minds of comic fans right from the start. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of this legendary team are DC's president and publisher-and Legion writer-Paul Levitz, who moderates the panel featuring fellow Legion storytellers Geoff Johns, Colleen Doran, and Comic-Con special guests Mike Grell and Keith Giffen. Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes | Writers & Writing 5:00-6:00 Join The Fight: Starship Troopers 3: Marauder- Join Casper Van Dien (Starship Troopers), Jolene Blalock (Star Trek: Enterprise) and writer/director Ed Neumeier (writer of Starship Troopers and RoboCop) for a preview of the third installment in the wildly popular Starship Troopers franchise. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment invites you to "Join the Fight" and take part in an audience Q&A that will be recorded for download over Blu-ray's BD-Live network. Bring your Bluetooth phone and access exclusive content beamed directly to your handset during the panel! Room 7AB Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 5:00-7:00 Stargate Offworld Fandom Gathering- The iris is open! Experience the essence of Stargate fandom during this two-hour fan gathering! Marcia Patterson invites you to step through the gate with Stargate fans from around the universe to share trivia, games, giveaways, hot news, discussions, fanworks, filk singing (familiar tunes with Stargate lyrics), and other Stargate Offworld Fandom surprises! Learn the basics of collecting and see some actual props fans have acquired from the show/movie. You'll have fun with both alien and SG costuming and there'll even be an impromptu costume contest! Joining Marcia from Stargate Offworld Fandom are Martin A. Smith and Jennifer Carey, and from SciFiHero.net, Dean Newbury. Room 24A Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 5:30-6:30 The World of Steve Ditko Panel Discussion- Author Blake Bell (Strange and Stranger: The World of Steve Ditko) presents a slide show and discusses the artwork and career of Steve Ditko (co-creator of Spider-Man and Dr. Strange) with panelists Jim Starlin (Captain Marvel, Dreadstar), Kim Deitch (Shadowland, The Stuff of Dreams), Carl Potts (Alien Legion), Dean Mullaney (IDW's Library of American Comics), and Gary Groth (co-publisher, Fantagraphics). Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes 5:30-6:30 Spotlight on Len Wein- The writer who gave us Swamp Thing, The New X-Men, Wolverine, Brother Voodoo, memorable runs on all the top DC and Marvel titles and many more, was one of the first fans to become a professional writer...and editor at both companies. Comic-Con special guest Len Wein joins moderator Mark Evanier for a discussion on Len's 30+ years in the industry as one of comics' most popular talents. Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 5:30-6:30 Spotlight on Adrian Tomine- New Yorker illustrator and Optic Nerve cartoonist Adrian Tomine is the author of one of 2007's most critically lauded graphic novels, Shortcomings. For this Spotlight, Tomine will be interviewed by the first editor ever to give him an actual paying gig, Marc Weidenbaum, editor-in-chief of magazines at VIZ Media. The two will discuss what it was about the then UC Berkeley student's comic that attracted Weidenbaum to offer him a regular spot in Tower Records' Pulse magazine and how Tomine has matured over the last decade to become one of North America's leading literary cartoonists. Room 10 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 5:30-6:30 Comic Book Club: A Live Talk Show- Scott Adsit (30 Rock), Adam Rifkin (National Lampoon's Homo Erectus), Eric Powell (The Goon), and Gabriel Rodriguez (Locke & Key) join Justin Tyler, Pete LePage, and Alex Zalben (The Stack) to wrap up San Diego Comic-Con in style. Featuring surprise musical guests, and more, this is the funniest panel at the Con. Not to be missed! Room 30AB Categories: Comic Books | Fandom 5:30-6:30 Character Design Workshop- An introductory workshop focusing on the creation of characters for any medium, including the importance of storytelling, as well as tools to make memorable character designs. Topics to be discussed in clued the use of silhouette, gesture, reference, and attitude will be discussed. This workshop is great for beginners and will provide insight into the world of character design. Information on The Art Institutes will also be presented. Patrick Ballesteros is a concept illustrator who has been working in the film and game industry for the past four years and is currently an independent concept artist in gaming and an instructor at The Art Institute of California-Orange County. Room 30CDE Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Gaming | Movies | Seminars & Workshops 5:30-7:00 Sony: Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, Quarantine, Pineapple Express- See the exclusive first look at footage and meet the stars of Underworld : Rise of the Lycans. The third film in the popular Underworld franchise delves into the origins of the centuries-old blood feud between the aristocratic vampires, known as Death Dealers, and the barbaric Lycans (werewolves). A young Lycan, Lucian (Michael Sheen), emerges as a powerful leader who rallies the werewolves to rise up against Viktor (Bill Nighy), the cruel vampire king who has persecuted them for hundreds of years. Lucian is joined by his secret lover, the beautiful vampire Sonja (Rhona Mitra), in his battle to free the Lycans from their brutal enslavement. On stage to take your questions will be Rhona Mitra, Bill Nighy, Michael Sheen and director Patrick Tatopoulos. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is in theaters everywhere January 23, 2009. Quarantine: Television reporter Angela Vidal (Jennifer Carpenter) and her cameraman (Steve Harris) are assigned to spend the night shift with a Los Angeles fire station. After a routine 911 call takes them to a small apartment building, they find police officers already on the scene in response to blood-curdling screams and soon learn that a woman living there has been infected by something unknown. After a few of the residents are viciously attacked, they try to escape only to find that the CDC has quarantined the building. Phones, Internet, television and cell phone access have been cut off, and officials are not relaying information to those locked inside. When the quarantine is finally lifted, the only evidence of what took place is the news crew's videotape. Quarantine opens in theaters everywhere October 17. Pineapple Express: Frankly, if we tell you almost anything about the plot to this action/comedy, we probably wouldn't even be allowed to be here, so let's just say that producer Judd Apatow will be on stage with the gang in tow-director David Gordon Green, Seth Rogen (star and co-writer), James Franco, DannyMcBride, Amber Heard, and Evan Goldberg (co-writer)-to show you how they've taken this particular genre to new highs. Also, be sure to ask Seth and Evan about their upcoming Green Hornet film. Hall H Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes 5:45-7:15 Gays in Comics Panel: 21 and Legal!- Starting its third decade at Comic-Con, the long-running "Gays in Comics" panel takes a thrilling look at the diversity in the comics world today. With DC Comics leading the charge with the lesbian Question and Batwoman, the shadowy Obsidian, and Wildstorm's Apollo and Midnighter, where will they go next in the realm of superhero comics? And when will other companies substantially move forward to represent gay characters? Meanwhile, independent publishers and creators are building their own worlds that spotlight gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered characters, pleasing the thousands of fans who are out of the comic book closet. This all-star panel of GLBT creators (and one straight one) offer startling 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) are Roger Klorese, the president of PRISM Comics and longtime comic and internet trailblazer; Ariel Schrag, writer/artist of the critically acclaimed Potential, plus Awkward, Definition, and Showtime's The L Word; Greg Rucka, the writer of Final Crisis: Revelations, Checkmate, Daredevil, and many other hot titles; Jeff Krell, writer/artist of the long-running Jayson strip and new graphic novel Jayson Goes to Hollywood; Jack Mahan, executive director-editorial administration for DC Comics; and maybe a surprise panelist! Afterward, stick around for the hour-long gay comics fan mixer/social, hosted by PRISM Comics, with prizes and surprise special guests! Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes 6:00-7:00 Capcom Presents: The Making of Bionic Commando and Bionic Commando Rearmed- Producer Ben Judd presents an exclusive, never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes peek at the making of the Bionic Commando Rearmed and Bionic Commando for the next gen game systems. Andy Diggle (The Losers, Swamp Thing) discusses writing the Bionic Commando webcomic. Select audience members will be invited to take part in a special Bionic Commando Rearmed gaming tournament to win exclusive Bionic Commando prizes! Plus, meet the real Bionic Commando in person for photos. Q&A session to round out the presentation. Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Gaming | Webcomics 6:00-7:00 Yen Press- Co-publishing directors Kurt Hassler and Rich Johnson and the staff of Yen Press discuss what's on the horizon for this exciting publisher. Room 3 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books 6:00-7:00 Playing God- Authors discuss creating the rules and deities of their fantasy worlds. Panelists include Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), Chris Evans (A Darkness Forged in Fire), Lynn Flewelling (Shadows Return), David Keck (In a Time of Treason), Jenna Rhodes (The Elven Ways), and Eldon Thompson (Asahiel). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 5AB Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 6:00-7:00 TV Guide- TV Guide takes an in-depth look at some of the new and returning TV series, featuring the hottest TV talent-in front of the camera and behind the scenes. TV Guide executive editor Craig Tomashoff moderates this panel offering the inside scoop, with some fun surprises. Participants include (in alphabetical order) Josh Applebaum (executive producer, Life on Mars), Jaimie Alexander (Kyle XY), Matt Dallas (Kyle XY), Javier Grillo-Marxuach (creator, The Middleman), Ronald Moore (executive producer, Virtuality), Natalie Morales (The Middleman), Jason O'Mara (Life on Mars), and Jason Smilovic (executive producer, My Own Worst Enemy), among other special guests. Room 6B Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 6:00-7:00 Marvel: The Ultimate Universe Must Die!- The end of the Ultimate Universe is coming, and only these guys know how it's going down. Join the men behind Ultimatum-writers Jeph Loeb (Ultimates and TV's Heroes), Aron Coleite (Ultimate X-Men), Joe Pokaski (TV's Heroes) and Joe Quesada (editor-in-chief)-as they reveal why this is the end. And you'll never guess who's returning! Room 6CDEF Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Writers & Writing 6:00-7:00 Impact University: How to Write and Draw Comics and Graphic Novels- Some of the biggest names in comics are on hand to teach you what it takes to make it in comics and graphic novels. The star-studded faculty includes Peter David (Dark Tower, X-Factor), Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game, Wyrms), Colleen Doran (A Distant Soil, Sandman), Brian Miller (Hi-Fi Color Design), and Comics Buyer's Guide senior editor Maggie Thompson. Find out the best way to submit your work, learn the dos and don'ts of the business, and participate in a Q&A session. Room 7AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing 6:30-7:30 Blatant Keenspot 2008- Pioneering webcomics powerhouse Keenspot returns for their 8th annual Comic-Con panel, and they're bringing high-concept funny-book factory Blatant Comics with 'em! Panelists scheduled to appear include Blatant president Bobby Crosby (Last Blood, Marry Me), R.C. Monroe (Out There), R. Smith (Funny Farm, Banished!), Keenspot CEO Chris Crosby (Sore Thumbs, Superosity), and surprise guests to be announced! Get the latest on the Last Blood feature film adaptation from producers BenderSpink (The Ring, A History of Violence), new developments at Keenspot and ComicGenesis.com, and more. Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Webcomics 6:30-7:30 WildStorm Brewing- Get the inside scoop on what's coming up from DC's wildest imprint from VP Hank Kanalz, superstar artist Jim Lee, editorial director Christos Gage (WildCats: World's End), and creators Neil Googe (WildCats: World's End), Wes Craig (Wildstorm Revelations), Brian Denham (X-Files), Joshua Ortega (Gears of War), and Jason Craig (Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash). Find out about WildStorm's newest creator-driven books, plus the latest on The Authority, WildCats, Stormwatch, Gen 13, The Lost Boys, X-Files, J. J. Abram's Fringe, and much, much more! Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Television 6:30-7:30 Troma, Supernatural Law, New Found Glory, Ghost in the Shell- Meet the diabolical minds behind your favorite comic books and films. George W. Bush Yale classmate and legendary Troma Studios founder Lloyd Kaufman once again mixes with the masses at this year's Troma, panel which features Batton Lash (creator, Supernatural Law), Chad Gilbert (New Found Glory band, www.moviescenester.com), and producer Steven Paul (Ghost Rider, Doomsday, upcoming Ghost in The Shell with Avi Arad and Steven Spielberg). Learn secrets about how the upcoming Ghost in the Shell got to be produced. See Lloyd and The Toxic Avenger in pages of the newest Supernatural Law comic. Hear New Found Glory's movie music. Get insights on Lloyd's creative process plus down-and-dirty secrets of filmmaking with n behind-the-scenes clips from his upcoming Direct Your Own Damn Movie DVD and from Troma's theatrical hit Poultrygeist, Night of The Chicken Dead! See exclusive footage of Toxie in Iraq! Moderating (and self-medicating as needed) will once again be Mimi Cruz from Eisner Retailer Award-winning store Night Flight Comics. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Movies 6:30-7:30 The Anthropology of Star Trek- Daryl G. Frazetti of the Department of Anthropology at Lake Tahoe Community College discusses anthropological themes in the Star Trek universe. Select themes include politics, religion, social problems, and the anthropological concept of "race." The subculture of fandom is also explored. All topics will span the franchise and look at the relationship between Star Trek at any given point and contemporary society. This forum is based on the course offered at Lake Tahoe Community College and professional research. Room 30AB Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops | Television 6:30-7:30 Gamers in the Library?- Did you know that at least 7 out of 10 libraries support gaming? From consoles to D20, board games to CCG's, gaming in libraries is a hot topic. Find out about this seemingly odd combination with Kearsten LaBrozzi (Glendale Public Library, Arizona), Susan White (University of Advancing Technology), Mike Pawuk (Cuyahoga County Public Library), and Merideth Jenson-Benjamin (Glendale Public Library, Arizona). Hear about successful programs, learn pitfalls to avoid, and find out why gamers in the library are here to stay. Room 30CDE Categories: Gaming | Seminars & Workshops Nighttime Programs 7:00-8:30 In Search of Steve Ditko Documentary- Strange & Stranger: The World of Steve Ditko author Blake Bell hosts a showing of the documentary In Search of Steve Ditko by UK television star Jonathan Ross. The hour-long documentary features such comics legends as Neil Gaiman, Alan Moore, and Stan Lee discussing Ditko's work and career along Ross' journey to find Steve Ditko in New York City. Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Nighttime Programming 7:00-9:00 CBLDF Benefit Auction- This is the big one! The CBLDF holds its biggest auction of the year at Comic-Con, and this year brings some amazing one-of-a-kind items to raise money for free speech. Primo items include original art by Jack Kirby, Dave Gibbons, Walter Simonson, Jeff Campbell, Jeff Smith, and more! All this plus rare comics, signed graphic novels, and scripts. You will need a bidder number for this auction, which can be obtained, along with a full auction list, at the CBLDF booth or at the start of the event. Room 8 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Nighttime Programming 7:15-8:15 Gays in Comics Mixer- Here's your chance to mingle with other GLBT and open-minded fans and creators and bid on some fantastic auction items! Hosted by PRISM Comics. Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 7:15-8:15 MythBusters Q&A and Sneak Preview- Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage of MythBusters talk about their offbeat Discovery Channel series that uses science to determine the truth behind urban legends. With backgrounds in animatronics, robotics, model building, and prototyping, Adam and Jamie will answer questions about the 300+ myths they've busted to date, show untelevised clips from their most explosive myths, and feature a Comic-Con exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming NASA moon landing hoax episode. Room 6B Categories: Nighttime Programming | Television 7:15-8:15 Comedy Central's The Sarah Silverman Program- Sarah Silverman (Jesus Is Magic) plays a character (aptly named Sarah Silverman) whose absurd daily life is told through narrative and an occasional song. In each episode, Sarah falls into unique, unsettling, and always hilarious predicaments, with her sister (played by real-life sister Laura Silverman, The Comeback), her geeky gay neighbors Brian (Brian Posehn, Just Shoot Me) and Steve (Steve Agee, Jesus Is Magic), and dim-witted Officer Jay (Jay Johnston, Mr. Show with Bob and David) never far from her side. Silverman, Rob Schrab (Monster House), Heidi Herzon (Jesus is Magic) and Dan Sterling (The Daily Show) are the executive producers. Join the entire cast and executive producers of the Comedy Central hit series for a Q&A session. Room 6CDEF Categories: Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television 8:00-10:00 Christian Comic Arts Society Networking- Christian comics creators and fans are invited to join together with CCAS members for a time of fellowship, networking and socializing.Limited freebies available! Come Saturday night and hang with other Christian comics fans. Hosted by the Christian Comic Arts Society. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 8:30-11:30 Masquerade Broadcast (6A), presented by Tru:Blood- Broadcast LIVE from the stage in Ballroom 20, here's your chance to see the world famous Comic-Con Masquerade on the big screen. A great place to view all the action if Ballroom 20 is full or the party in the Sails Pavilion is too crowded. Room 6A Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 8:30-11:30 Masquerade Broadcast (6B), presented by Tru:Blood- Broadcast LIVE from the stage in Ballroom 20, here's your chance to see the world famous Comic-Con Masquerade on the big screen. A great place to view all the action if Ballroom 20 is full or the party in the Sails Pavilion is too crowded. Room 6B Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 8:30-10:00 Marvel: Wolverine and The X-Men Animated Screening- When an explosive event shatters the lives of the X-Men and takes away their mentor, the beaten heroes walk away from it all. But then they're given a rare glimpse into the future, and see a world in utter ruin, ruled by mutant-hunting Sentinels. So now the most legendary of all X-Men takes the lead-Wolverine! Reuniting these broken heroes, Wolverine embarks on the ultimate mission-to prevent the world's destruction. To rescue us from ourselves. To save the future. Meet Boyd Kirkland (lead director), Craig Kyle (supervising producer), Greg Johnson (head writer), and others involved with this new animated series and watch the first three episodes of this epic new X-Men series before its Nicktoons 2009 premiere. Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes 8:30-11:30 Tru:Blood Presents: Comic-Con International Masquerade- Fabulous original and re-created costumes crafted by Comic-Con's talented attendees appear on stage before an audience of thousands. Outstanding costumes will be awarded trophies and cash prizes. Doors will open for audience seating at 7:45 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. The masters of ceremonies will be writers/artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio of Studio Foglio, and halftime entertainment will be a mini-show featuring favorite comic book heroes presented by the JING Institute of Chinese Martial Arts & Culture. (Additional seating is available in Rooms 6A, 6B, and the Sails Pavilion where the Masquerade will be simulcast on the big screen.) Ballroom 20 Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 8:30-11:30 Comic-Con International Masquerade Party- Party the night away in the Sails Pavilion while the Masquerade, presented by Tru:Blood, plays on the big screen! Sails Pavilion Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 10:00-12:00 World Premiere! Mutant Chronicles- Special "work-in-progress" feature film screening hosted by stars Thomas Jane (The Mist), Ron Perlman (Hellboy II), and Devon Aoki (Sin City). This is the first public showing in our hemisphere of this steampunk action-adventure. A disparate squad of former enemy soldiers undertakes a suicide mission deep into the seething heart of the otherworldly mutant scourge bent on human extinction. Unrated, uncut, unreal. Q&A with cast, director Simon Hunter (Lighthouse), and producer Edward R. Pressman (The Crow). Room 6CDEF Categories: Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy    

Venkman Here! With the Friday Schedule for the 2008 Comic-Con! Awesome! Check it out below and start planning out what it is you are going to want to see! Like Always I will Highlight the highlights in red! And Remember Friday is Star Wars day so there is tons of stuff to do for the Star Wars Fans! And there is a ton of other stuff you need to see! Friday is a busy Day!Friday, July 25 Last changed: Sat, Jul 12, 10:25pm

Friday July 25th Schedule

10:00-11:00 VIZ Media's Shonen Jump Panel- Not only does 2008 mark the 5th anniversary of the magazine, but it is also the 40th anniversary of Japan's largest manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump-the source of some of the world's most popular manga. These double milestones mean loads of events and announcements, some exclusive to San Diego Comic-Con! Don't miss out on this opportunity to meet the editors and find out what they've got up their sleeves for 2009. Room 2 Categories: Anime & Manga 10:00-11:00 DC Talent Search 2- Learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional! Panelists will discuss the different needs of the DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm, MAD magazine, Minx, and Zuda. This extremely informative orientation session will explain how DC's Talent Search works and provide numerous tips and tricks on how to improve your work and explore opportunities. In order 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 10:00-11:00 Marvel: Your Universe- Become an integral member of the Marvel Creative Committee as Kevin Feige (president, Marvel Studios), Dan Buckley (president, publishing), Joe Quesada (editor-in-chief, publishing), and Craig Kyle (senior VP, creative development, Marvel Animation) sit down with you and get your thoughts on all things Marvel. They'll reveal what's on the horizon with Marvel Studios, Publishing, and Animation and ask for your feedback and insights on what Marvel has done and is planning to do. From the day that The House of Ideas was built, Marvel has been your universe and now more than ever they'd like to hear what you have to say about everything from Marvel cinematic continuity to the upcoming slate of new animated television series in 2009 to the Skrull infiltration of our world. Room 6A Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Television 10:00-11:00 Batman: Brave & Bold- See an exclusive first look at the latest take on the Dark Knight, which premieres this fall on Cartoon Network. Producers Sam Register (Teen Titans) and James Tucker (Justice League Unlimited) discuss the show, along with writer Michael Jelenic (The Batman), director Brandon Vietti (Superman Doomsday), voice director Andrea Romano (Superman Doomsday), and the new voice of Batman, Diedrich Bader (Surfs Up), followed by a Q&A session. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 10:00-10:50 Star Wars: Designing the Clone Wars Universe- Meet the original in-house team that designed the unique look of the Clone Wars series. They will discuss how they worked with supervising director Dave Filoni to come up with the graphic, painterly style of imagery that gives Clone Wars its distinct look. Drawing on the last three years of production, they will share how the characters and environments have evolved using much of the rich classic Star Wars imagery as reference for designing the show's overall look. Moderated by Lucasfilm's Steve Sansweet. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 10:00-11:00 TheOneRing.net: The Hobbit- Middle Earth returns with the announcement that The Hobbit will be developed into a feature film directed by Guillermo del Toro and produced by Peter Jackson. The world's largest Tolkien community, TheOneRing.net, takes you behind the scenes of the latest news, announcements, and rumors pertaining to the production of the new film. Chris Pirrotta (TheOneRing.net), Larry Curtis (TheOneRing.net), Cliff Broadway (TheOneRing.net), Kristin Thompson (The Frodo Franchise), and possible special guests present this early look at making The Hobbit happen! Room 32AB Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 10:15-11:15 The Big Bang Theory Screening and Q&A- Positive proof that physics is funny, The Big Bang Theory makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the "Nerdvana Annihilation" episode and a Q&A with the show's creators and stars. Come talk with executive producers Chuck Lorre (Two and a Half Men) and Bill Prady (Dharma & Greg), as well as series stars Johnny Galecki (Roseanne), Jim Parsons (Garden State), Kaley Cuoco (Charmed), Simon Helberg (Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story) and Kunal Nayyar (NCIS). Adam Savage (MythBusters) will moderate the session. From Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television, The Big Bang Theory returns for a second season on September 22 and airs Mondays at 8:00 PM< ET/PT on the CBS Television Network. Room 6CDEF Categories: Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 10:30-11:30 Spotlight on Max Brooks- America's favorite zombie expert is a Comic-Con special guest for the first time! Author Max Brooks, whose groundbreaking work in the walking dead genre could possibly save your life some day (see his The Zombie Survival Guide), talks about his work and what's up next for him. Room 5AB Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 10:30-11:30 10 Years of DC Direct- Celebrate DC Direct's tenth anniversary with the creative minds behind your favorite action figures, statues, and busts! Panelists including VP-design/DC Direct creative Georg Brewer, DC Direct design director Jim Fletcher, a sculptor Jim Shoop and others discuss the first ten years of DC Direct and take a look into the future with the DCU, Watchmen movie, and World of Warcraft. Room 810:30-11:30 One on One with Terry Moore-The creator of Strangers in Paradise talks about his popular new series Echo and writing the new launches of Runaways and Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane for Marvel. Q & A to follow. Room 8 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 10:30-11:30 One on One with Terry Moore- The creator of Strangers in Paradise talks about his popular new series Echo and writing the new launches of Runaways and Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane for Marvel. Q & A to follow. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books | Writers & Writing 10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #5: Focus on Mark Buckingham- Comics historian Alex Boney (Ohio State University) conducts a wide-ranging discussion of the comic book medium with artist Mark Buckingham (Miracleman, Fables, Peter Parker: Spider-Man). Room 30AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 202: Why Can't We All Just Get Along?- Noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of the acclaimed The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, deals with more advanced issues facing authors, artists, and designers, particularly once they've "broken through" and have started publishing and selling (and maybe merchandising too). 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, knockoffs, lawsuits, cybersquatters, blogs, and parodies are just a few of the potential problems that may arise once creative works come to market. 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 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. 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: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing 10:45-11:45 Stargate Continuum- Following on the heels of the hit DVD release Ark of Truth, the next full-length feature will be released Tuesday, July 29, with principal cast members returning for the biggest adventure of them all! This panel features Brad Wright (series co-creator and Continuum developer, executive producer and writer), Martin Wood (director), and (subject to availability) stars Richard Dean Anderson (General Jack O'Neill), Amanda Tapping (Lt. Colonel Samantha Carter), Ben Browder (Lt. Colonel Cameron Mitchell), Michael Shanks (Dr. Daniel Jackson), and Christopher Judge (Teal'c). Ballroom 20 Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 10:50-11:35 Star Wars: The Clone Wars 3D Modeling- What gives The Clone Wars series its live action cinematic sensibility? The process is called 3D Story at Lucasfilm Animation. Learn how this innovative team of panelists worked together to redefine traditional storyboarding so that the majority of storytelling is now done in the computer. This panel will give you firsthand insights into the challenges the crew faced as they embarked on defining this new process, both technically and creatively, while training traditional and CG artists to combine skill sets and create a new process for television animation. Moderated by Catherine Winder, producer, The Clone Wars. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 11:00-12:00 Print The Legend: Mike Grell and Mark Ryan- Comic-Con special guest Mike Grell (Legion of Superheroes, The Warlord, Green Arrow: the Longbow Hunters, Jon Sable, Freelance) and actor-writer Mark Ryan (Robin of Sherwood, The Prestige, King Arthur, voice of Bumblebee in Transformers), swap outrageous yarns and discuss the secret world behind their new Comicmix.com project The Pilgrim with editor Mike Gold. Join Mike, Mark and Mike for a bit of insanity and Q&A session. Room 2 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Webcomics | Writers & Writing 11:00-12:00 Image Comics Studio Space- Howard Chaykin, Tommy Lee Edwards, and Bryan Talbot discuss Image's hit Studio Space book, moderated by the book's editor and co-writer Joel Meadows. Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 11:00-12:00 LEGO and BrickJournal: Brave New World- See what grown-ups and "big kids" are doing with LEGO today and what fuels them to never put the brick down! With notable guests including Joe Meno, editor and creator of BrickJournal, the magazine for adult fans of LEGO; expert builders Bryce McGlone and Brandon Griffith; and female builder Jessi Pastor. This panel showcases amazing examples of how they put their LEGO building talents to use! Dust off those old bricks in your basement and join the brave new world of LEGO builders! Room 4 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Fandom 11:00-12:00 Masquerade 101- Want to learn more about convention costume contests? Thinking about taking your creations onto the stage? Looking for ideas to enhance your presentations? Curious what goes on behind the scenes? Comic-Con Masquerade director Martin Jaquish, award-winning fan costumer and professional prop maker Andrea Davis, and Masquerade assistant John Ruff offer an overview of on-stage costume competitions and present tips for getting the most out of your costuming experience. Room 32AB Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops 11:15-12:15 Powerpuff Girls 10th Anniversary and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends- Believe it or not, it has been 10 whole years since the Powerpuff Girls flew out of Professor Utonium's lab and into our hearts. Along the way Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles have kicked the butt of every major villain in Townsville. Celebrate their 10th Anniversary with show creator Craig McCracken and the voices of the Powerpuff Girls-Cathy Cavadini, Tara Strong, and Elizabeth Daily. They will answer all of your questions and accept all of your praise! And Craig will also be talking about his other Cartoon Network hit, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, along with co-creator Lauren Faust and voice talent Keith Ferguson (Bloo) and Tom Kenny (Mayor, Eduardo). Room 6A Categories: Animation | Kids | Television 11:15-12:15 Worlds Collide: The Making of Midway's Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe- Ed Boon (Mortal Kombat) and Jimmy Palmiotti (Painkiller Jane) discuss how two billion-dollar entertainment franchises collide as Mortal Kombat warriors battle DC superheroes for the first time in this highly anticipated video game. Ed and Jimmy provide an exclusive look at never-before-seen gameplay, unveil key characters on the game's roster, and answer your questions. Room 6B Categories: Comic Books | Gaming | Superheroes 11:30-12:30 Hey Kids, the First One's in the Library- Children's authors discuss the joys of writing for that audience and ways to captivate their young readers. Panelists include Frank Beddor (The Looking Glass Wars), Martin Baynton (Jane and the Dragon), PJ Haarsma (The Softwire), D.J. MacHale (Pendragon: Raven Rise), Rebecca Moesta (Crystal Doors), James Owen (Here, There Be Dragons), and Michael Reisman (Simon Bloom, the Gravity Keeper). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 5AB Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 11:30-12:30 Marvel Cup o' Joe- Meet the EEK himself, Joe Quesada, and surprise guests as they unveil what's in store for all your favorite Marvel characters and creators, make some surprising announcements, and take on any and all questions! As always, this is the one no-holds barred panel that everyone's gonna be talking about and the one panel you don't want to miss! Room 6CDEF Categories: Comic Books 11:30-12:30 Mattel and DC Comics: A Heroic Partnership- You've been a fan of Mattel's popular DC toy lines, now find out the latest news, sneak peaks, and behind-the-scenes scoop on your favorite Mattel/DC action figures, including DC Universe Classics, Justice League Unlimited, The Dark Knight, and Infinite Heroes,-plus exciting new lines like Batman Brave and the Bold-as well as the world premiere of new action figures. Be on hand as representatives from Mattel, DC Comics, and Warner Bros. Entertainment offer an insightful Q&A. Brought to you by Mattycollector.com. Room 8 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Superheroes 11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Jim Starlin- The most cosmic comics creator of them all is a Comic-Con special guest. In Jim Starlin's 30+ years in comics he's produced some of the great cosmic sagas-Captain Marvel, Warlock, Dreadstar-and shown a penchant for death-The New Gods, Robin, and...well, Captain Marvel and Warlock! Starlin talks about his career and what's coming up for this talented writer and artist. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 11:30-12:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #6: Comics Studies: Developing Canon and Theory- Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics) explores how the emerging field of comics studies can avoid the mistakes the study of literature and film made in the past century. Diana Green (Minneapolis College of Art & Design) puts Scott McCloud's theories about the comics form to the test by applying them in an examination of McCloud's own creative works (Zot, New Superman Adventures, etc.). Room 30AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 11:35-12:35 Industrial Light & Magic and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull- Academy award-winning visual effects house Industrial Light & Magic takes you behind the scenes of their work for the latest installment in the Indiana Jones series. You'll get a firsthand look at how the effects were created and see what was involved in bringing Indy's world to the big screen. Room 7AB Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 11:45-12:15 Stargate MMO- After nearly 15 years on the air, the Stargate franchise is launching its first-ever multilevel online game, with all the elements-and more!-fans expect from the Stargate family. The key creative team from Cheyenne Mountain Entertainment and FireSky Studios present a compelling sneak-peek and answer questions. Panelists include Brad Wright (Stargate series' co-creator, executive producer and writer) plus Dan Elggren (FireSky Studio head), Chris Klug (creative director), Howard Lyon (art director), and Demetrius Comes (director of technology). Ballroom 20 Categories: Gaming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 11:55-1:00 Warner Bros.: Watchmen- A complex, multi-layered mystery adventure, Watchmen is set in an alternate 1985 America in which costumed superheroes are part of the fabric of everyday society, and the "Doomsday Clock"- which charts the USA's tension with the Soviet Union-is permanently set at five minutes to midnight. When one of his former colleagues is murdered, the washed-up -- but no less determined -- masked vigilante Rorschach sets out to uncover a plot to kill and discredit all past and present superheroes. As he reconnects with his former crime-fighting legion-a ragtag group of retired superheroes, only one of whom has true powers -- Rorschach glimpses a wide-ranging and disturbing conspiracy with links to their shared past and catastrophic consequences for the future. Their mission is to watch over humanity...but who watches the Watchmen? Guest appearances TBA. Hall H Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Superheroes 12:00-1:00 ABC Family: Samurai Girl- Based on a series of popular young adult novels, Samurai Girl tells the story of a 19-year-old Japanese girl named Heaven, who discovers that the wealthy businessman who adopted her as an infant is really the head of the Yakuza (the Japanese mafia) and may have had her beloved brother brutally murdered. She breaks from her family, begins training to become a samurai, and with the help of a group of new American friends sets out to take down her father's evil empire. The panel includes Jamie Chung (Real World), Brendan Fehr (Roswell), and Stacy Keibler (WWE)-along with executive producers Andre Nemec-Josh Applebaum,-and Luke McMullen (all from Alias). Samurai Girl will air as a special event premiering with six hours over three nights, on September 5, 6, and 7. Room 2 Categories: Anime & Manga | Television 12:00-1:00 50 Years of Gay Legion of Super-Heroes Fandom- The fiftieth anniversary of the Legion of Super-Heroes gives the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) fans a reason to celebrate. Join Prism Comics president Roger Klorese, Interlac APA central mailer and HIV + ME cartoonist Chris Companik, and a "legion" of pros and fans in a freewheeling discussion to find out, among other things, which male Legionnaire coveted the name "Light Lass," how Matter Eater Lad consumed whole planets without gaining an ounce, and why removing the pink from Cosmic Boy's costume made him look somehow...gayer. And, what's up with Element Lad? Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Superheroes 12:00-1:00 Prince of Persia- Jordan Mechner, the creator of the Prince of Persia video game and graphic novel and screenwriter on the upcoming movie, discusses the global phenomenon that is Prince of Persia, tying together the comics and the video game industry. Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Gaming | Movies 12:00-2:00 Steve Rude Painting Workshop- Comic book artist Steve Rude (Nexus, The Moth, Worlds Finest) demonstrates his classical approach to portrait painting with writer and Nexus editor Anina Bennett. This two-hour panel will help you simplify this often difficult and misunderstood procedure, with Rude answering all your questions and explaining the process along the way. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops 12:00-1:00 Costume Illustrators, Production Illustrators, and Concept and Storyboard Artists- The making of a film or television show is a collaborative process. Costume illustrators and concept and storyboard artists, brought onto productions to develop images under the guidance of the designers, serve a key position in the web of communication that is essential to filmmaking. This panel offers a glimpse into the fundamental importance of illustration as well as the seamless creativity between the key conceptual departments on favorite feature films and television productions. Moderator William David Hogan, director and storyboard artist (Into the Blue 2, Whiteout) will host costume illustrators from CDG, Local 892, including Oksana Nedavniaya (Narnia: Prince Caspian, Twilight), Phillip Boutte, Jr. (Star Trek 2009, Terminator Salvation), Felipe Sanchez (Speed Racer, Wolverine), and Christian Cordella (G.I. Joe, The Mummy 3), alongside illustrators and artists from Local 790: Ricardo Delgado (Age of Reptiles comics, Eagle Eye), Jeff Errico (Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, Crank), Tim Burgard (The Incredible Hulk, Wolverine), Mark Moretti (Valkyrie, The Day the Earth Stood Still), and Trevor Goring (The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Watchmen). Room 32AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Costuming | Movies | Television 12:15-1:15 Stargate Atlantis- With new allies and new challenges, Stargate Atlantis is making big waves in its action-packed fifth season. Be on hand for this exclusive panel discussion with the cast and creators of SCI FI's hit series. Panelists include cast members Joe Flanigan, Robert Picardo, and Jewel Staite, co-creator and executive producer Brad Wright, and , Chris Sanagustin, VP original programming SCI FI. Moderated by Martin Gero, executive producer. Ballroom 20 Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 12:25-1:15 Star Wars: The Clone Wars: New Books Based on the Movie and TV Series- The Star Wars Saga continues with a wide variety of tie-in books for the groundbreaking new series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, including novels, nonfiction, comics, and children's books. Please join Carol Roeder and Frank Parisi from Lucas Books, along with Karen Traviss (author of The Clone Wars novel from Del Rey), Henry Gilroy (author of The Clone Wars comic from Dark Horse), Jason Fry (author of The Clone Wars Visual Guide from DK Publishing), and Erin Dempsey (marketing director, Penguin Young Readers) for questions and answers-and a sneak peak at these must-have books! Moderated by Lucasfilm's Pablo Hidalgo. Room 7AB Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 12:30-1:30 The Art of Adapting Comics to the Screen- The cinematic renaissance of comic book-based films continues, and here's your chance to learn what it takes to adapt these dream projects to the screen! Creative Screenwriting magazine's senior editor Jeff Goldsmith hosts an amazing panel of Stan Lee (co-creator of Iron Man), Zak Penn (screenwriter, The Incredible Hulk), Mark Fergus (co-screenwriter, Iron Man), and Gregory Noveck (senior VP-creative affairs, DC Comics). Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Movies | Writers & Writing 12:30-1:15 Spaced- Actor/creator Jessica Hynes (Shaun of the Dead), actor/creator Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead), and director Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz) recall Spaced, the clever and edgy comedy series that started it all for the award-winning team behind Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Plus: Q&A session. (Look for the Spaced screening tonight in the same room at 10:15PM!) Room 6A Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Television 12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Jim Lee: The Art of DC Universe Online (DCUO)- Jim Lee (All Star Batman and Robin, The Boy Wonder, Batman: Hush, Superman: For Tomorrow) and Carlos D'Anda (Brass, WildC.A.T.S, Bionicle, The Outsiders, JLA: Classified, Deathblow) of WildStorm Productions fame join with Chris Cao, Jared Carr and Jason Smith of Sony Online Entertainment's DC Universe Online game development team to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced in adapting the rich comic book art of the DC Universe to a 3D game world and delivering the same emotional impact online as the brand evokes in its other mediums; moderated by Mat Broome (Batman: No Man's Land, WildC.A.T.S) Room 6B Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Gaming 12:30-1:30 Spectacular Spider-Man- Spend some time with the cast and creators of the renowned webslinger's newest animated adventures, The Spectacular Spider-Man, a Culver Entertainment Production. Ask your burning questions about the first 13 episodes of Season 1, learn about what's in store for the next 13 and catch an exclusive sneak peek at Season 2! Michael Vogel from Sony Pictures Television Animation moderates a panel that includes supervising producer Greg Weisman (Gargoyles); supervising producer/supervising director Vic Cook (Hellboy: Blood and Iron);-character designer Sean "Cheeks" Galloway (Hellboy animated films); voice director Jamie Thomason (2007's TMNT, Spirited Away);-the voice of Spider-Man, Josh Keaton (The Young & The Restless); the voice of Mary Jane Watson, Vanessa Marshall (Star Wars: Jedi Knights II); the voice of Eddie Brock and Venom,-Ben Diskin (Codename: Kids Next Door), and the voice of Adrian Toomes and Vulture, Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street). Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 12:30-2:00 That '70s (Comics) Panel- It started with Nixon and ended with Carter, but in between the 1970s showcased an incredible influx of new comics talent unheard of since the beginning of the industry in the 1930s. Moderator Mark Evanier (who worked with Jack "King" Kirby on DC's "Fourth World" books in the '70s) hosts Comic-Con special guests Mike W. Barr (Camelot 3000, Batman), Howard Chaykin (American Flagg!), Mike Grell (Warlord, Green Arrow), Paul Gulacy (Master of Kung Fu, Sabre), Jim Starlin (Dreadstar, Captain Marvel), Joe Staton (Green Lantern, E-Man), Len Wein (Fantastic Four, Incredible Hulk), and Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing, Frankenstein). Wow! That's almost one panelist for each year in the decade! Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Connie Willis- Time travel, hula hoops, flying saucers, church choirs, and other proofs of Chaos Theory in action! Multiple Nebula and Hugo Award-winning science fiction author and Comic-Con special guest Connie Willis (Doomsday Book, To Say Nothing of the Dog) reveals the outer reaches and inner secrets of writing science fiction. Room 10 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing Sat, Jul 12, 10:21PM 12:30-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #7: Visual Language- Neil Cohn (Tufts University) explores the visual language underlying the "manga style," how it works and how it differs from the visual languages in comics developed in other cultures. Robert O'Nale Jr. (Henderson State University) uses David Mack's Kabuki to illustrate how gestalt can be an important avenue for analyzing design and meaning in comics. Alec Hosterman (Indiana University South Bend) demonstrates the dominance of hyperreality in comic art and explains how it can be utilized for further study of the art form. Room 30AB Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 1:00-2:00 Introducing Resident Evil: Degeneration- Producer Hiroyuki Kobayashi (Devil May Cry 4, Resident Evil 4) and director Makoto Kamiya (special effects director, L: Change the World, Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack) introduce the full-length CG-animated motion picture based on the popular Capcom video game franchise. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment invites you to be the first to see the film's revealing new trailer and take part in a Q&A session with the filmmakers. Room 2 Categories: Gaming | Horror and Suspense | Movies 1:00-2:00 Looking at Our World: Eye on the Present- Authors discuss how they use the supernatural in stories of contemporary society. Panelists include Kelley Armstrong (Women of the Otherworld), L. A. Banks (The Vampire Huntress Legend Series), Kate Brallier (The Boundless Deep), Marjorie M. Liu (The Iron Hunt), C. E. Murphy (The Negotiator Trilogy), Justine Musk (Lord of Bones), Lilith Saintcrow (The Dante Valentine Series), and moderator Samantha Sommersby (Forbidden: The Revolution). Room 3 Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Victor Gorelick- One of the most prolific editors in comics, Victor Gorelick has entertained readers since 1958. Victor started as an art assistant at Archie Comics, since then he has served as production manager, art director, and managing editor before being named editor-in-chief. On hand to provide a retrospective of Victor's career are Fred Mausser, Archie Comics, VP sales; Mike Pellerito, Archie Comics managing editor; Betty & Veronica writer/artist Dan Parent; "Archie Freshman Year" writer Batton Lash; Jughead writer Craig Boldman; and Archie inker Rich Koslowski. The moderator is Finger Award-winning Archie writer George Gladir. Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 1:00-2:00 Production Designers- For the second consecutive year, Comic-Con attendees will have the opportunity to interact with a lineup of master production designers-the artists responsible for creating the looks of today's most celebrated sci-fi/fantasy films and television. Organized by the Art Directors Guild, IATSE Local 800, these production designers will show clips, answer questions, and share their methods for creating imaginary worlds and convincing environments. Participating panelists (listed alphabetically) include Richard Hudolin (Battlestar Galactica, Caprica-BSG prequel), Alex McDowell (Watchmen, Corpse Bride), J. Michael Riva-(Iron Man, Spider-Man 3),-Barry Robison (Wolverine, The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader). Moderating the panel is John Muto, designer of Terminator 2 3D, Species, and Home Alone. Room 32AB Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 1:15-2:00 Primeval- Actor Douglas Henshall gives you firsthand info about his leading role in BBC America's new U.S. premiere sci-fi series Primeval, along with actors Juliet Aubrey and Karl Theobald. When evolutionary zoologist Nick Cutter (Henshall) discovers prehistoric creatures alive and well in the present day, the natural world is turned on its head and humanity faces a threat to its very existence. Followed by a Q&A session. Room 6A Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 1:15-2:00 Hasbro: Star Wars and Indiana Jones- Derryl DePriest and Justin Kreter (Hasbro marketing), are joined by Brian Parrish, Mark Boudreaux, Dwight Stall, and Brian Wilk (Hasbro design) to talk about what the Hasbro design and marketing teams have in store for the remainder of 2008 in the Star Wars and Indiana Jones lines. Plus a special sneak peek into some 2009 secrets and a Q&A session! Room 7AB Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 1:15-2:00 Trailer Park- The Comic-Con perennial returns in a big-Hall H- way! See all the latest trailers for the biggest upcoming films, all in one handy-dandy timeslot. Hall H Categories: Movies | Television 1:30-2:30 Editorial Cartoons- Top newspaper editorial cartoonists talk about their cartoons, today's issues and the political cartooning profession. Panelists Steve Breen (San Diego Union Tribune), Mike Peters (Dayton Daily News), Signe Wilkinson (Philadelphia Daily News), Michael Ramirez (Investor's Business Daily), Mr. Fish (LA Weekly, Village Voice), and Bill Schorr (United Media) chat with moderator/fellow cartoonist Daryl Cagle (msnbc.com). Room 5AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire 1:30-2:30 Scott McCloud Zot!- Legendary comics theorist Scott McCloud (Understanding Comics) offers a funny and fascinating visual presentation about his very first comic book, Zot!, and the two amazing decades that followed, in celebration of HarperCollins' new 576-page omnibus Zot!: The Complete Black and White Collection. Room 10 Categories: Comic Books 1:30-2:30 Joss Whedon- Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and the writers and cast of his new short film, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, will show never-before-seen clips while Joss also discusses Buffy Season Eight, the Fray crossover, and the upcoming Serenity comic focusing on Shepherd Book. Ballroom 20 Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 1:45-2:45 Ghostbusters: The Video Game- Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, and panelists from Sierra Entertainment and Sony Pictures Consumer Products discuss the eagerly anticipated Ghostbusters: The Video Game, due out this October. The panel focuses on what it takes to bring fans the next chapter in the Ghostbusters universe, including working with the original cast members and Sony Pictures Consumer Products to create a completely true and faithful interactive ghostbusting experience. Room 6B Categories: Fandom | Gaming | Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 1:45-2:45 Entertainment Weekly's The Visionaries: Showrunners- Carlton Cuse (Lost), Damon Lindelof (Lost), Josh Schwartz (Chuck, Gossip Girl), Bryan Fuller (Pushing Daisies), and Josh Friedman (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles) are the television producers who are changing the face of television with deeply immersive entertainments marked by distinctive, cutting edge storytelling. They have also been at the forefront of bringing "genre programming" or "cult TV" to the mainstream. Prepare for a candid conversation about creative integrity in a commercial medium and the future of broadcast TV in an increasingly digital world. Spoiler Alert! Upcoming plot developments may be teased. Moderated by Entertainment Weekly senior writer Jeff Jensen. Room 6CDEF Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 2:00-3:00 Capcom: How to Get A Job in the Video Game Industry- Video game giant Capcom presents a panel of respected video game industry veterans to deliver an overview of the wide variety of career opportunities within the industry, personal tales of how they got in, and tips and suggestions for those who want to. Panelists include Chris Charla (VP, business development, Foundation 9-Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix), Morgan Gray (producer, Dark Void), Grant Luke (senior product manager, Street Fighter IV), Francis Mao (Capcom senior director, creative services and former creative director for GamePro magazine), and Tim Ng (Capcom associate public relations manager). Q&A session to round out the presentation. Room 2 Categories: Gaming | Seminars & Workshops 2:00-3:00 The World of Graphic Novels- International is part of Comic-Con's name for a reason! An impressive roster of worldwide talent who create graphic novels-Nick Abadzis (UK, Laika), Eddie Campbell (Australia by way of Scotland, The Amazing Remarkable Monsieur Leotard), Rutu Modan (Israel, Exit Wounds), Alex Robinson (U.S., Too Cool to be Forgotten), and Adrian Tomine (U.S., Shortcomings)- join moderator good ol' American Tom Spurgeon (comicsreporter.com) to discuss graphic novels and why they make the world go 'round. Room 3 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 2:00-3:00 Broccoli Books- Broccoli Books brings quality Japanese manga to the United States. See what they have to offer currently and what is in store for the future. Broccoli-it is cheap and healthy for you-nyo! Room 4 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books 2:00-3:00 Meet the (Wannabe) Press: Get a Sneak Peek into the Minds Behind On the Bubble- This new weekly animated web series takes a snarky yet refreshing look at current news through the eyes of four irreverent wannabe reporters from Middle Town Community College. Comedy Central alum Adam de la Peña, creator of Code Monkeys and one of the warped minds behind Crank Yankers and Minoriteam, unveils his new show. De la Peña is joined by Worldwide Biggies CEO Albie Hecht (SpongeBob SquarePants) and animation director Mark Salisbury (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), to give a behind-the-scenes peek into the latest technology used to produce this weekly show. Sierra Mist executives will also be on hand to shed light on the new wave of brand-produced entertainment. The Q&A session will provide insightful tips on getting creative ideas greenlit by major brands eager to discover and invest in up-and-coming comedic talent. The panel also includes On the Bubble voice talent Dana Synder (Master Shake on Adult Swim's Aqua Teen Hunger Force) and Glasgow Phillips (South Park). Panel attendees will receive a free exclusive Comic-Con On the Bubble premium. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Webcomics 2:00-3:00 That '70s (Animation) Panel- Comic-Con special guest Mark Evanier talks to animation legends Joe Ruby and Ken Spears-of Ruby-Spears Productions-about their amazing output of television cartoon shows in the '70s, '80s, and beyond.Meet the men who gave you Thundarr the Barbarian, Scooby Doo, Dynomutt, Fangface, Jabberjaw and so many more. Room 8 Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television Sat, Jul 12, 10:22PM 2:00-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #8: Playing the Hero- Peter Coogan (Institute for Comics Studies), wrestler Diamond Dallas Page (Yoga for Regular Guys), actor John Newton (Superboy), City of Heroes gamer Jospeh Cohen (Justice Knights Yahoo group), and Matthew (Feedback) Atherton (Who Wants to Be a Superhero) discuss and explore how wrestlers, actors, and gamers understand, adapt, and apply the superhero genre. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Fandom | Gaming | Movies | Superheroes 2:00-3:30 Dynamic Drawing: Demonstration from Life- Renowned teachers demonstrate the Watts Atelier Method of Drawing. Jeff Watts and Erik M. Gist demonstrate the skills that have allowed them to excel as professional artists, as they explain the essentials of working from the live model and its importance to every working artist. Jeff founded Watts Atelier of the Arts some 16 years ago in hopes of preserving the tradition of master artists of the past. Jeff and Erik will share their thoughts on what it takes to train and perform at peak professional levels. A must for professionals and aspiring professionals alike. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops 2:00-3:30 Scribe Awards/Media Tie-in Writers Panel- The second annual presentation of the International Association of Media-Tie-in Writers (IAMTW) "Scribe" awards, honoring such notable franchises as CSI NY, Murder She Wrote, Criminal Minds, Stargate Atlantis, Star Trek, Resident Evil and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The awards presentation is followed by a panel of nominees, including William Dietz (Hitman), Stacia Deutsch (Nancy Drew), Kevin J. Anderson (Last Days of Krypton), Steven Paul Leiva (12 Dogs of Christmas), Alan Dean Foster (Transformers), Lee Goldberg (Monk), and moderator Max Allan Collins (American Gangster). Andy Mangels (Iron Man) will present the awards. Room 32AB Categories: Animation | Awards Ceremonies | Comic Books | Gaming | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 2:00-2:30 Universal: The Wolfman- For its upcoming action-horror film The Wolfman, Universal will showcase new footage and a presentation from the title monster's creator, six-time Oscar-winning special effects artist Rick Baker. Hall H Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies 2:15-3:15 DC: Batman: No Rest for The Dark Knight- Batman is the original dark hero. He lives a life pledged to helping the helpless and punishing the guilty, but this summer everything is going to change. With a blockbuster hit in theatres and a darker storyline than ever before, now's the time to celebrate the minds behind the bat! Senior editor Michael Marts, Grant Morrison (Batman), Paul Dini (Detective Comics), Dustin Nguyen (Detective Comics), Brian Azzarello (Joker), and others discuss the mythos of the Bat and what looms ahead for our hero. Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes 2:30-3:30 Hasbro: Marvel- Jerry Jivoin, Michelle Favaloro, and Scott George of Hasbro marketing and Brian Wilk, Josh Lamb, Steve Redinger, Dwight Stall, and Logan Lubera of Hasbro Design present the Hasbro Marvel line, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, Marvel Legends and Super Hero Squad toy lines from 2008. Also, see a sneak peek into the 2009 line and a Q&A session! Room 5AB Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Superheroes 2:30-3:30 Radical Comics!- Radical Publishing will discuss 2008 and beyond with some major announcements. On board for the Comic-Con panel will be Radical's president and publisher, Barry Levine and editor-in-chief, Dave Elliott. In addition, Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), writer of both the comic and the screenplay for his upcoming Radical project, City of Dust; Ian Edginton (Stormwatch: Post Human Division), who discusses his dark, never before seen approach to Aladdin; Sam Sarkar, writer of Caliber; Edmund Shern, writer of Freedom Formula; and Hercules designer-and cover artist for issues #1 and #2-the legendary Jim Steranko! Room 10 Categories: Comic Books | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 2:45-3:30 American Dad- Seth MacFarlane and the cast of the Fox animated hit reunite at Comic-Con to read a never-before-seen episode and take questions from the audience. Ballroom 20 Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television 2:45-3:45 Lionsgate and Odd Lot Entertainment: The Spirit- Writer/director Frank Miller and producer Deborah Del Prete are joined by film stars Gabriel Macht, Samuel L. Jackson, and Eva Mendes in unveiling an exclusive preview of the new film based on the classic comic by Will Eisner. Hall H Categories: Comic Books | Movies 3:00-4:00 VIZ Media's Anime and Manga Publishing- Get the Comic-Con exclusive scoop from the VIZ Editorial and Marketing teams on what's new for 2009 from one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation, and licensing companies. Room 2 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books 3:00-4:00 An Introduction to Webcomics- The single largest explosion of new comics talent in history is happening online. Did you know that there are over 18,000 webcomics? Some of them have millions of readers. Most of these comics are free. Is this news to you? Then come and find out what you've been missing from Phil Foglio (moderator and writer/artist Girl Genius), Brad Guigar (Evil, Inc.), Dave Kellett (Sheldon), Scott Kurtz (PVP), and Kris Straub (Starslip Crisis). Room 3 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Webcomics 3:00-4:00 Spotlight on James Warren- he legendary publisher of Famous Monsters of Filmland, Creepy, Eerie, and Vampirella joins Comic-Con in a rare convention appearance! Jim Warren celebrates the 50th anniversary of FM along with the legendary Hollywood makeup artist Verne Langdon, also a Comic-Con special guest! Famous Monsters fans will recognize Langdon's name from the pages of that beloved magazine. Room 4 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy 3:00-4:00 SCI FI: Ghost Hunters- Is it in your head-or in your house? Find out during Comic-Con first ever panel discussion with Ghost Hunters' Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson, stars of the #1 paranormal reality series on Wednesday nights. What you'll hear is real-and scary. Moderated by James Hibberd (The Hollywood Reporter). Room 6B Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 3:00-4:00 World of Warcraft- Hear what's next for World of Warcraft straight from the source! Representatives from Blizzard Entertainment will be joined by folks from Upper Deck, DC Comics and Tokyopop to reveal what's in store for World of Warcraft gaming, comics, action figure, and manga fans. Plus, while supplies last, attendees will receive an exclusive World of Warcraft Comic-Con gift! Room 6CDEF Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Gaming 3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Lynda Barry- Iconic alt-cartoonist and Comic-Con special guest Lynda Barry is the author of the recently released-to much acclaim-graphic-how-to-memoir, What It Is. Barry has been at the forefront of alternative comics since Matt Groening published her first comics while they were both students in college. This presentation takes an inside look at Barry's creative energy, genius, and approach to making art. "The ordinary is extraordinary" in Barry's world, and everyone can write and be creative-we just have to ask ourselves the right questions. Have your pencils ready and your mind prepared to be blown with this once in a lifetime chance to meet the! Lynda! Barry!, creator of Ernie Pook's Comeek, One! Hundred! Demons! and The! Greatest! of! Marlys!. Room 7AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Al Jaffee- He's definitely one of "MAD's maddest artists!" Al Jaffee's work-including his incredible "Mad Fold-Ins" that grace the inside back cover of the magazine-has appeared in more issues of MAD than any other artist. Mark Evanier interviews this comics legend, who is making his first-ever appearance as a Comic-Con special guest. (We promise not to try and fold him.) Room 8 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Geoff Johns- His ideas have breathed new life into Flash, Teen Titans, Green Lantern, the Justice Society of America, and now Superman. Is there anything writer Geoff Johns can't do? Probably not, but come ask anyway. Don't miss this panel hosted by Ian Sattler, senior story editor-DCU, interviewing one of the brightest minds behind the magic of the DC Universe. Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 3:30-4:30 Marvel to the Nth Degree- In today's world, comic-loving fans should be able to enjoy their graphic entertainment in the most thoroughly modern media. On Friday, Marvel will unveil a covert project that we have been seeding as part of a secret partnership for many months--including a sneak peek--of an unprecedented way to experience a new work by one of the biggest names in entertainment (we didn't say comic books, we said Entertainment). Featuring Joe Quesada (Marvel editor-in-chief) and Ruwan Jayatilleke (SVP, Marvel Strategic Development) and others that shall not be named at the moment. The game is about to be changed. Room 6A Categories: Comic Books 3:30-4:30 BOOM! Studios Panel- One of the fastest-growing independent publishers invites you to take a peek at what makes BOOM! so great. Editor-in-chief Mark Waid (Kingdom Come), co-founders Andrew Cosby (Eureka) and Ross Richie, marketing and sales director Chip Mosher (Left on Mission), and a few surprise guests will be making announcements about the upcoming year for BOOM! Studios. Come and watch us explode! Room 10 Categories: Comic Books 3:30-4:15 Family Guy- Stars Seth MacFarlane and Seth Green and the producers of the Fox animated hit give fans a sneak peek at a never-before-seen episode and discuss the highly anticipated spinoff The Cleveland Show. Ballroom 20 Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television 3:30-5:00 Comic Book 102: The Ins and Outs of Collecting, Investing, and Writing- Designed to thrill and educate audiences from the 8-year-old novice to the millionaire financial advisor, this expert panel discussion details the comings and goings of the hobby. Learn about the history of comics, how to collect and successfully invest, detect restoration, discuss current and future community standards and even receive advice on how one becomes a published comic book writer. Panelists include noted restoration/conservation expert Susan Cicconi (The Restoration Lab/Network of Disclosure), Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide advisor Mark S. Zaid (EsquireComics.com/Network of Disclosure), executive editor and associate publisher J. C. Vaughn (Gemstone Publishing), Douglas Wheeler-Nicholson and Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson Brown (son and granddaughter, respectfully, of DC Comics founder Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson), and other prominent experts from publishing, services, and writing. Room 24A Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books 3:30-4:30 Comic Book Heaven: LIVE!- If you've ever wondered which superhero sleeps in his uniform, where the rudest place to shoot a giant space monster can be found, and what you really got when you ordered junk from ads found in old comic books, you'll love Comic Book Heaven: LIVE! Scott Saavedra (Comic Book Heaven, Java Town) shines a bright and affectionate light on some of the strangest stories and most twisted moments found in vintage comic books. Comic Book Heaven: LIVE! is like Scott's Comic Book Heaven blog (comic_book_heaven.blogspot.com) but without all the tedious pointing and clicking. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Books | Fandom 3:30-4:30 Drawing Demo: Spotlight on Dean Yeagle- Comic-Con special guest Dean Yeagle has had his cartoons regularly published in Playboy for the past nine years. Most of his career has been in animation, and he has had his own animation studio for the past 22 years. He's also recently designed and drawn the first two issues of the Return of the Gremlins comic, for Dark Horse and Disney, written by Mike Richardson. Earlier this year he had a one-man gallery show in Paris, and he also publishes his own books with his pinup character Mandy, which, you may rest assured, he'll have for sale at Comic-Con. Join Dean and moderator/interviewer Craig Yoe (Comic Arf) to see some of Dean's work and ask questions about Playboy, animation, comics, and how to draw pretty girls for fun and profit! Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Seminars & Workshops 3:30-4:30 Toys, Comics and Characters: Illustrators as Entertainment Entrepeneurs- Abby Denson (Tough Love), Nora Krug (BLAB!), Tara McPherson (Lonely Heart), and Brian Wood (DMZ), all prominent professionals from among Parsons Illustration alumni and faculty, talk with Steven Guarnaccia (chair, Parsons Illustration) and Angie Wojak (director, Parsons Career Services) about how studying illustration was useful in achieving their creative and professional goals. Room 32AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books 4:00-5:00 All Hail the Transformers!- TF editor Denton Tipton hosts a panel of Transformers creators including writers Shane McCarthy (All Hail Megatron), Chris Mowry (The Reign of Starscream), Marty Eisenberg (TF Animated), artists Alex Milne (The Reign of Starscream), Marcelo Matere (TF Animated) and others. Advance art, surprise announcements, and pints of Energon all around! Room 2 Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Kids | Movies | Television 4:00-5:00 Going Ape: Celebrating 75 Years of The Beast and The Beauty of King Kong- KONG! KONG! KONG! Our panel celebrates 75 years of one of cinema's most famous and most beloved beasties. Panelists take look back at the history of King Kong on-screen along with fun facts, reminiscences and anecdotes about the film that inspired many of us to become fans, filmmakers and fanatics. A panel of experts and fans is moderated by Mark A. Altman and Jeff Bond (Geek Monthly). Room 3 Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Robert J. Sawyer- Comic-Con special guest Robert J. Sawyer is one of only seven writers in history to win all three of science-fiction's top awards for best novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial Award. His latest novel, Rollback, has earned him his 11th Hugo nomination. Join him for a one-on-one Q&A session about the world of print SF. Room 4 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 4:00-5:00 Image Comics Show- On the heels of one of the biggest announcements Image has ever made, the Image Comics Show promises to follow up in a major way with special guests including Robert Kirkman, Whilce Portacio, Brian Posehn, Gerard Duggan, Erik Larsen, and others. All this, plus even more announcements and exclusive giveaways! Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books 4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Al Feldstein- Continuing our mini "Al's at MAD magazine" programming theme, the dean of EC Comics, triple threat editor/writer/artist Al Feldstein returns to Comic-Con. Feldstein-who edited the EC line in its glory days and took MAD to new heights of popularity-talks with Mark Evanier about comics, painting, that magazine, and much more! Room 8 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 4:00-5:00 The Saga Continues: Star Wars 2008- For Star Wars fans it's a stellar year, with the new Clone Wars movie on its way next month and great new Star Wars games from LucasArts to follow shortly. Lucasfilm's Steve Sansweet will welcome Dave Filoni (director), Catherine Winder (producer), Henry Gilroy (co-writer), and Jason Tucker (editor) to talk about George Lucas' ground-breaking new, fully animated movie, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, in theaters August 15. There's news for video game fans too, on The Force Unleashed and The Clone Wars. Prepare for exciting, exclusive previews of the movie and the games too! Hall H Categories: Animation | Gaming | Kids | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 4:15-5:15 Xbox LIVE Original Content Panel- You love the games, the TV, the movies, and Xbox LIVE Arcade, now see what is next. Get a sneak peak at the next generation of exciting original video content coming to Xbox LIVE worldwide. Meet the major Hollywood talent creating the content as they showcase their work, participate in a Q&A, and provide a few surprises. Room 6B Categories: Gaming | Movies 4:15-5:15 Spotlight on Jim Butcher- In a short period of time, Comic-Con special guest Jim Butcher has become one of the most popular names in fantasy fiction. His two series of books, The Dresden Files and Codex Alera, are New York Times bestsellers. Butcher talks about his books and his recent foray into the comic book adaptation world with the Dabel Brothers. Room 6CDEF Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 4:30-5:30 Vertigo: View of the Future- Vertigo is a more than a name. It's the imprint that delivers smart, provocative, and edgy books. Be here to find out what's in store for your favorite Vertigo titles as well as some major new projects that will be announced here for the first time! Hosted by senior VP-executive editor, Vertigo, Karen Berger, group editor Shelly Bond, and senior editor Will Dennis, this panel is not to be missed, especially considering the talent in tow: Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Joker), Mark Buckingham (Fables), David Lapham (Young Liars), Grant Morrison (Seaguy),-Matt Sturges (House of Mystery), Matt Wagner (Madame Xanadu), Bill Willingham (Fables, House of Mystery), G. Willow Wilson (Air), Brian Wood (DMZ, Northlanders), and others! Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 4:30-5:30 Spotlight on Keith Giffen- Comic-Con special guest Keith Giffen talks about his long career as writer and artist with friend and collaborator Robert Loren Fleming. Plus get the lowdown on their latest project: the return of Ambush Bug for DC Comics! Room 10 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 4:30-5:30 Bones- Join the entire cast (David Boreanaz, Emily Deschanel, Michaela Conlin, Tamara Taylor, John Francis Daley) and creators Hart Hanson and Barry Josephson for an hour of behind-the-scenes secrets and the chance to ask them everything you always wanted to know about the hit Fox drama. Ballroom 20 Categories: Horror and Suspense | Television 4:30-5:30 Action Figure Insider: Behind the Plastic: The Golden Age of Marvel Toys/Toy Biz- True innovators in the world of action figures are few and far between. The Team at Marvel Toys/Toy Biz has been bringing articulation to American action figures in their groundbreaking lines: Marvel Legends, Spider-Man Classics, Lord of the Rings, Legendary Comic Book Heroes and other Marvel movie lines. The managers of these lines talk about what might have been and their future plans. You will see never-before-seen plans for unproduced figures from the Marvel, LCBH, and other lines. Moderated by Daniel "Julius Marx" Pickett of ActionFigureInsider.com. Room 30AB Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books | Superheroes 4:30-5:30 Resources for Creators- Panelists give an overview of legal, financial, and technical supports available to creators, including how to get a creative arts lawyer even if you don't have money, guilds and unions, health insurance, studio insurance, business licenses and working with your local municipal departments for networking and support, grants, artist retreats, and so on. Writer/artist Colleen Doran (A Distant Soil) moderates. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops 4:30-6:00 So You Want to Be a Comics Retailer- This is where the dream takes flight! You have questions-our panel of experts have answers. Joe Field (Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff, Concord, CA) hosts retailer Joe Ferrara (Atlantis Fantasyworld, Santa Cruz, CA), Annette Price (Speeding Bullet, Norman, OK), Jay Bardyla (Happy Harbor Comics, Edmonton, Alberta) and Dave Hawksworth (Diamond Comic Distributors field sales manager), as they discuss your future as a retailer of comics and graphic novels. Room 32AB Categories: Comic Books | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops 4:45-5:45 It's a Great Comic-Con, Charlie Brown- Together for the first time at Comic-Con, Warner Home Video, United Media and the Schulz Estate bring you a Peanuts voice cast reunion in celebration of several great holiday DVD releases this September and October. Featuring Chris DeFaria (Peppermint Patty), Gabrielle DeFaria Ritter (Pigpen), Lisa DeFaria (Peppermint Patty), Sally Dryer (Violet and Lucy), Robin Kohn Glazer (Lucy), Jason Mendelson, Hilary Momberger (Sally), executive producer Lee Mendelson, and Jeannie Schulz, the wife of Charles M. Schulz. Room 6A Categories: Animation | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Kids | Television 5:00-6:00 Mythology, Secret Societies and Lost Civilizations- A discussion of authors incorporating Atlantis, Angels, and Abel's murder weapon into their fiction. Panelists include Alex Archer (Rogue Angel), Thomas Greanias (Raising Atlantis, The Atlantis Prophecy), Christopher Moore (Lamb, A Dirty Job), Thomas Sniegoski (A Kiss Before the Apocalypse), and Michael Spradlin (The Youngest Templar: Keeper of the Grail). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 2 Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 5:00-6:00 Spotlight on Bernie Wrightson- Comic-Con special guest Bernie Wrightson brought a whole new face to horror comics when he broke into the industry in the late 1960s. He went on to co-create Swamp Thing and produce numerous work in both the horror and superhero genres. His magnum opus is his illustrated version of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, to be reprinted later this year by Dark Horse Comics. Room 3 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense 5:00-6:00 Teaching Comics- A few years ago, there were almost no academic programs for young cartoonists. Now classes and textbooks are popping up all over. Instructors and authors including Phil Jimenez (Infinite Crisis), Steve Lieber (Whiteout), and James Sturm (Center for Cartoon Studies), will discuss their philosophies of teaching cartooning with moderator Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops 5:00-6:00 Nickelodeon's Making Fiends Attacks Your Television- Meet the fiendish minds behind Nickelodeon's upcoming show Making Fiends as they talk about translating the popular web series to the TV screen. Get an inside look at the series production from creator and voice of Charlotte, Amy Winfrey; character designer and voice of Vendetta, Aglaia Mortcheva; writer and voice of Grudge, Peter Merryman; and supervising producer Dave Wasson (Time Squad). See an exclusive sneak peek of the series, plus special bonus content and a behind-the-scenes look at how Making Fiends the TV series came to life. Moderated by Claudia Spinelli, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Kids | Television 5:00-6:00 Masters of the Universe Classics Toy Line Update- Mattel is ecstatic to announce a brand new action figure line featuring highly detailed fully articulated characters from the entire MOTU-world aimed at the discriminating collector. Help celebrate the return of He-Man to toy shelves everywhere with a special screening of Episode 35: The Power of Grayskull, featuring Mattel's Comic-Con exclusive King Grayskull in his first starring roll. Then stay for an insightful Q & A with Mattel designers, marketing managers, and special guests, the Four Horsemen, for the latest news on this exciting new toy line. More info at Mattycollector.com. Room 8 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Kids | Television 5:00-6:00 Comic Artists Guild: An Open Call for Members Nationwide- Trying to break into the comics industry? Need an outlet for telling interesting stories with words and pictures? Keith Murphey, the founder of the Comicbook Artists Guild (otherwise known as CAG), along with a panel of members representing the East and West coasts, invites all aspiring creators to take part in an enlightening discussion of how CAG can unite talent together for projects of their choosing and how talented people like you can benefit from membership! Never been published? Need to find your own "voice"? Want to start a CAG chapter in your own hometown? Come find out how! Room 24A Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics 5:15-6:15 Entertainment Weekly's The Visionaries: Filmmakers- Kevin Smith (Zack and Miri Make a Porno), Frank Miller (The Spirit), Zack Snyder (Watchmen), and Judd Apatow (Knocked Up) are the filmmakers who are redefining what it means to have power in Hollywood. Because their power is derived from delivering high-profile entertainment to a hungry mainstream audience and from cultivating a rabid, pseudo-religious fan following. Listen as they engage in a free-wheeling conversation on the movie business, their upcoming projects, and what it means-to them-to be a geek. Moderated by Entertainment Weekly and EW.com senior editor Marc Bernardin. Hall H Categories: Comic Books | Movies 5:30-6:30 Penny Arcade- The creators of Penny Arcade are on hand for a one-hour open Q&A session about the game industry, their own foray into making games, PAX, webcomics, Child's Play, and more! (Please do not bring them food. They do not know any better and will, in fact, eat it.) Room 5AB Categories: Gaming | Webcomics 5:30-6:15 [adult swim]'s The Venture Brothers- Jackson Publick (creator and voices of Hank Venture, The Monarch, Henchman 24, Pete White and Sgt. Hatred) and Mike Sinterniklaas (voice of Dean Venture) speak about [adult swim]'s original series, The Venture Brothers. Now in its third season, the show picked up after the explosive wedding of The Monarch and Dr. Girlfriend from the season two cliffhanger. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Television 5:30-6:30 24- It's been off the air since May, 2007 but Comic-Con fans will get the first look at the exciting prequel shot in South Africa and the upcoming 7th season of the Emmy winning Fox series, as well as chat with the executive producers and stars Kiefer Sutherland and Carlos Bernard. Room 6CDEF Categories: Horror and Suspense | Television 5:30-6:30 Spotlight on Kim Deitch- Underground and alternative comix legend Kim Deitch (Boulevard of BrokenDreams, Alias the Cat) presents work from his new book Pictorama and a sneak peek at an upcoming project. As Kim puts it, he'll be showing "a touch of the past, a whole lot of the present, and a pretty generous look at the future as well!" Room 10 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 5:30-6:30 SCI FI: Sanctuary Room- The incredible power of virtual set technology is unleashed in the all-new adventure series starring Amanda Tapping of Stargate fame. Find out how the show goes from green screen to small screen, and catch an exclusive look inside Sanctuary's unique and awe-inspiring world. Panelists include cast member and executive producer Amanda Tapping and executive producer Martin Wood. Moderated by Michael Logan (TV Guide). Room 30AB Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 5:30-6:30 Intern Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts of Interning for Animation- Josh Lieberman (Cartoon Network's Cartoonstitute), Mike Collins (Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends),-Sean Cole (Dreamwork's How to Train Your Dragon), and Alana Bubis (Madagascar) are prepared to discuss all aspect of interning for a major animation studio: how to secure an internship, the dos and don'ts, and ultimately how to turn them into work. Room 30CDE Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Seminars & Workshops 6:00-7:00 Larry Marder: The Beanworld Is Back!- Legendary Beanworld creator Larry Marder is front and center in his first solo Comic-Con panel in 15 years. Learn how beans have been part of Marder's life since the day he was born! This rich visual presentation covers the entire history of his peculiar fantasy dimension including Marder's many influences. This is your opportunity to discover why Beanworld has captivated readers from grade school to grad school since its first publication as a series of comic books in the 1980s. Now Dark Horse Comics is publishing Beanworld for an entire new generation of fans. Hear all the details about Marder's many upcoming Beanworld projects! Room 2 Categories: Comic Books 6:00-7:00 State of the Animation Industry- Get a look at trends in the animation industry with a panel of industry professionals from all branches of animation. Panelists include Tom Sito (Who Killed Roger Rabbit, The Lion King, Osmosis Jones),-Jorge R. Gutierrez (creator/executive producer, El Tigre), Lennie Graves (supervising animator, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone video game; animator, The Iron Giant), Aki Umemoto (creative director, Mattel for 25 years; Apache Films), Ryan Ball (editor, Animation magazine), and moderator animation educator Larry Loc. Room 3 Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Gaming 6:00-7:00 Indie Comics to Toys- Geoff Beckett and Lance Buttiglieri (Shocker Toys) bring you a discussion into independent comics and their translation into super posable action figures, vinyl products and Shockinis. Geoff, Lance, and comics creators present a Q&A on comic book toys such as Indie Spotlight, other products such as Dethklok, production schedules, new ideas, and giveaways! Room 4 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Comic Books 6:00-7:00 DCU: Final Crisis Management- The Final Crisis is here! Senior VP-executive editor Dan DiDio talks with Grant Morrison (Batman, Final Crisis), JG Jones (Final Crisis), Geoff Johns (Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds), Brad Meltzer (DCU: Last Will and Testament), Greg Rucka (Final Crisis: Revelations), Phillip Tan (Final Crisis: Revelations), and others! Catch a glimpse of what will be one of the most talked-about events of the summer! Room 6A Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes 6:00-7:00 Star Wars Trivia- Members of the San Diego Star Wars Society, veteran hosts of great Star Wars trivia game shows at Comic-Con International, are planning another trivia challenge for all fans who think they know their stuff about the galaxy far, far away. Show off your Star Wars knowledge, and maybe win a Star Wars prize or two! Room 7AB Categories: Fandom | Kids | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 6:00-7:00 How To Make Webcomics: Live!- The four authors of Image Comics' breakout book How to Make Webcomics present a live version of their popular weekly podcast. Scott Kurtz (PvP), Dave Kellett (Sheldon), Kris Straub (Starslip Crisis), and Brad Guigar (Evil Inc) discuss some of the core issues in webcomics: making money and building communities. Room 8 Categories: Comic Books | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics 6:00-7:00 Simpsons Collectors Group- Simpsons collectors of the world unite! Take a break from the busy Comic-Con floor and get a chance to meet some of your fellow collectors of Simpsons merchandise. Collectors from all over the country will be here. Meet the other Simpsons collectors you see on the message board and put faces to the names. This gathering- put on by the staff of the SimpsonsCollectors.com website-is a great chance to network with other collectors from across the country and share your hobby with others. Room 24A Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Animation | Fandom | Television 6:00-7:00 Exceeding Expectations and Exploring New Worlds: Feature Effects for the Small Screen- Zoic Studios moderates a discussion with VFX supervisors on their passion for creating narrative enhancing, eye-popping effects for television. Some of the best in the business discuss future trends as well as their contribution to the television series Heroes, Battlestar Galactica, The Middleman, Lost, Eureka, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Smallville, and the new fall show Fringe. Room 32AB Categories: Animation | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 6:15-7:00 [adult swim]'s Robot Chicken- Seth Green and Matthew Senreich (co-creators), Tom Root and Doug Goldstein (head writers/co-producers), Breckin Meyer (writer/actor), and Kevin Shinick (writer) speak about [adult swim]'s original series, Robot Chicken. In its third season, the network's Emmy-winning stop-motion and animation show known for its pop culture commentary just released the episode Robot Chicken Star Wars on DVD. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television 6:30-7:30 The Write Stuff: Working in Genre Television- Get the inside scoop on how to break in, break out, and deal with some incredibly stupid network notes. A panel of genre luminaries share their war stories and passion for genre storytelling with you in this once-in-a-lifetime summit of super sci-fi scribes who've turned their dreams into drama, including Javier Grillo-Marxuach (The Middleman), David Simkins (Warehouse 13, Dresden Files), Steve Kriozere (V.I.P, Sliders, Dead & Deader), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars, The Batman), Ashley Miller (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles), Matthew Federman (Jericho, E-Ring), Harry Werksman & Gabrille Stanton (Moonlight), and moderator Mark A. Altman (Geek Monthly). Room 5AB Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing 6:30-7:15 Prison Break- In their first visit to Comic-Con, stars Wentworth Miller, Dominic Purcell and Sarah Wayne Callies and producers Matt Olmstead, Kevin Hooks, and Dawn Parouse give a special sneak peek at the show's upcoming fourth season and take questions from the audience. Room 6CDEF Categories: Horror and Suspense | Television 6:30-7:30 What's Up with Penguin- Anne Sowards (senior editor, Ace/Roc), Lisa DeGroff (marketing manager, Penguin Young Readers), and Jessica Wade (associate editor, Ace/Roc) give you the dish on forthcoming books from Penguin's exciting authors, including Jim Butcher, Charlaine Harris, Patricia Briggs, Charles Stross, Kelly Link, Robin McKinley, Allegra Goodman, and many others. Plus, lots of giveaways, including free advance reading copies! Room 10 Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing 6:30-7:30 The Goon- A Q&A with Goon creator Eric Powell and Reno 9-11 writers and stars Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon about their new super secret super fantastic comics project! If you miss this panel, everyone will know more about this project than you and that makes you stupid and unattractive to women. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Books | Humor & Satire 6:30-7:30 Storyboarding: Earn over $100K- Mark Simon, author of Storyboards: Motion in Art, 3rd Edition, and an artist with over 2,500 productions to his credit, covers how to get started in storyboarding, three mistakes most new artists make, tips to double your business and will demonstrate the newest Storyboard Pro software. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television 6:30-8:00 Kevin Smith Makes a "Porno"- Well, not really, but for the umpteenth time, Smith is back at Comic-Con to talk movies, comics, and whatever else the audience wants to talk about. This year, he'll be highlighting his fall film, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, starring Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks. Expect some special guests. Hall H Categories: Comic Books | Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies Nighttime Programs 7:15-8:15 Klingon Lifestyles Presentation- This latest mission for the crew of the IKV Stranglehold finds them seeking assistance from the last person in the universe they would ask for help, but is everyone who they say they are? Can they survive Rule of Acquisition number 218? All species are welcome to experience the ongoing voyage and adventure of life aboard a Klingon vessel. Room 6A Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy 7:15-8:15 Mystery Science Theater 3000 20th Anniversary Reunion- From 1988 to 1999, the long-suffering captives aboard the Satellite of Love wisecracked their way through hundreds of cinema's problem children-those delirious B-movies of yesteryear created by twisted imaginations and, possibly, the need for a tax shelter. To celebrate the show's 20th Anniversary, join a historic reunion of cast and crew, including creator Joel Hodgson, producer Jim Mallon and fellow writer/performers Mike Nelson, Kevin Murphy, Trace Beaulieu, Frank Conniff, Mary Jo Pehl, Paul Chaplin, J. Elvis Weinstein, Bridget Nelson, and Bill Corbett for a Q&A panel hosted by self-professed "MST3K nerd" and comedian Patton Oswalt (The King of Queens). Room 6B Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television 7:15-9:15 Totally Rad Show- Hosts Alex Albrecht (Diggnation), Dan Trachtenberg, and Jeff Cannata bring their Webby Award-winning geek culture show to Comic-Con in their first ever live performance. Join the guys for an explosion of movie, video game, TV, and comic book news and reviews, and see what makes this Revision3 show such an Internet phenomenon. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic Books | Fandom | Gaming | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television 7:30-8:30 Gaia Online: Kiki Kitty and Gaia Staff- Kiki Kitty and the Gaia Staff are hosting a special Gaia Online panel where Gaia Online members can meet each other and the staff and find out more about Gaia's newest games and features. In addition to hanging out with their fellow Gaians, all attendees will receive free gold and a limited-edition ring for Gaia's new MMO. All attendees will also have a chance to win a jumbo Kiki plushie and other great prizes! Room 5AB Categories: Fandom | Gaming | Nighttime Programming 7:30-9:15 Nickelodeon Avatar: Sozin's Comet- Executive producer and creator team Bryan Konietzko and Mike DiMartino have built one of the most astonishingly complex and beautifully animated series in television with Nickelodeon's Avatar: The Last Airbender. Join Bryan, Mike, and Avatar director Joaquim Dos Santos (G.I. Joe Microseries) for a viewing of the exciting back-half of the Avatar season finale, "Sozin's Comet: Into the Inferno" and "Sozin's Comet: Avatar Aang," followed by a Q&A with the team as they discuss the rich mythology of the series, as well as a costume contest and fan art contest! Moderated by Roland Poindexter, VP, Nickelodeon original programming, animation. Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming | Television 8:30-10:00 Marvel/Lionsgate: Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow World Premiere!- Whenever the forces of evil threatened mankind, Earth's mightiest heroes, the Avengers, were there to stop them-until they made the ultimate sacrifice in their final fight with the indestructible robot Ultron. But all was not lost, for Tony Stark (Iron Man) kept the children of the Avengers safe and raised them to become the teenage heroes of tomorrow. But it will take more than five teens to destroy the machine that defeated their parents. If these young heroes have any hope of winning, they must find the missing Hulk and come together as...the Next Avengers! Meet Craig Kyle (supervising producer), Gary Hartle (producer/supervising director), Christopher Yost (writer), and others involved in this new animated film and watch Next Avengers before its September 2, 2008 Blu-Ray and DVD release. Room 6A Categories: Animation | Comic Books | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes 8:30-10:30 SCI FI Friday Night: Eureka and Stargate: Atlantis- SCI FI presents the season 3 premiere of Eureka a full three days before it airs! Also debuting will be a new episode of Stargate Atlantis, along exclusive clips from the new Scare Tactics. Attendees will receive a mini-issue of the SCI FI Virgin Comics sensation The Stranded (while supplies last). Room 6B Categories: Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 8:30-11:30 The Spirit Presents the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards- The 20th annual Eisner Awards, the "Oscars" of the comics industry, will be given out at a gala ceremony. This year's special them is "The Magic of Comics." Presenters include comics creator/director Frank Miller (Sin City, 300, The Spirit), Spongebob Squarepants creator Tom Kenney, and Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Gos, plus several other celebrities from comics, animation, and film. Other prestigious awards to be given out include the Russ Manning Promising Newcomer Award and the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. The master of ceremonies is Bongo Comics' Bill Morrison. Admission to the Eisners is free to all Comic-Con attendees-just be sure to bring your badge. Doors open for pros and VIPs at 7:30 and for attendees at 8:15. Ballroom 20 Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Comic Books | Nighttime Programming 9:30-10:30 Worst Cartoons Ever!- Animation historian Jerry Beck returns with some of the worst cartoons ever made. Learn how to be fit with Mighty Mr. Titan, follow the adventures of Super President, Spunky and Tadpole, and many more. Have a ball with the best/bad animation every. Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Fandom | Nighttime Programming 10:15-11:45 Spaced Screening- Actor/creator Jessica Hynes (Shaun of the Dead), actor/creator Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead), and director Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz) introduce a special late-night screening of their favorite episodes from the edgy British comedy series that started it all for the award-winning team behind Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. Room 6A Categories: Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television 10:30-12:30 Spike & Mike: The Gauntlet-- You vote via applause and your reaction is the deciding factor as to whether an animatio keeps playing or whether it will make it into the next world tour. Gift Girls with swag! Animators include Mike Geiger (Cuddle Sticks), John Goras (Chirpy Returns), Joe Borelli (Artie's Day Off), Ross Bollinger (The Mosquito Who Gave Up Blood), Stefan Schuch (Tinky Winky: Last of the Teletubbies), Jeff Chiba Stearns (Yellow Sticky Notes), Steve Fonti (Yes Timmy There Is a Santa Claus), Spike (Death to the Teletubbies), and Matthew Lee (Flock Off). Room 6CDEF Categories: Animation | Nighttime Programming 10:45-12:00 Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog- The story of a low-rent supervillain (Neil Patrick Harris as Dr. Horrible), the hero who keeps beating him up (Nathan Fillion as Captain Hammer), and the cute girl from the laundromat he's too shy to talk to (Felicia Day as Penny). This musical in three parts, created for the Internet and written by Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon, Zack Whedon, and Maurissa Tancharoen, premieres in its entirety on the big screen at Comic-Con. Room 6B Categories: Fandom | Movies | Nighttime Programming    

Venkman here - I recently wrote a article about Saul Bass' inspiration behind the first 'Burn After Reading' poster that was released, which you can read RIGHT HERE. Now we got 2 new poster that also carry across that Saul Bass feel. These poster all also great! So check them out below! This movie looks like it going to be funny and crazy as hell. If you have not seen the trailers check out the Red Band Here and the International here. Enjoy the posters thanks to Slashfilm! Posters have been removed at the request of Focus Features. Thank you.  

If your anything like me, and you’re a movie geek you are also most likely interested in the process a film goes through to actually get made. Film production is incredibly hectic and there are so many people working on so many different things that it almost seems impossible to organize, but it is done for every movie that gets made. I recently came across a making of book for the movie ‘The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor’. It takes you through the whole process and goes into details of the making of the film. The thing I liked about it most was the excitement and dedication Rob Cohen had while he was making the film! In my opinion the ideas he brought to the table is what is going to make this movie better than the first 2 mummy films. I like what I have seen from the preview, but this book goes into some great detail on the movie that you wont get even if you saw the whole movie. I am just going to touch on each section of the book to give you an idea of what to expect. The book starts off by taking you through the very first meeting Rob had with Universal regarding the film. It then moves on to Rob’s thoughts and his growing excitement as he starts to bring everything together, including his team.  The whole movie was built around Rob Cohen’s personal interest and appreciation of the Chinese culture. Everything that was designed for the movie is incredibly detailed and looks great! I think the special effects are going to be pretty good. The one thing I am still not sold on is the dragon, but everything else looks pretty solid. These is a lot of amazing art and design that was done for this movie. It also reveals that the opening scene of the movie of the movie “reveals a panoramic view of China’s Great Wall, one of the most extraordinary feats of construction in human history.” I have always wanted to see something like this done! The book says that this shot is “meant to show that the Wall was, in essence, a mass grave…” There is some really cool stuff that they go into detail about. Other things that The book goes into is The Pyramids of China and the Terra-cotta Army of Xian which plays a huge part in the movie. I am pretty excited to see Ron Cohen's vision of The Mummy come to life!  The following are the book chapters:

Introduction by Rob Cohen The Making of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production design Costumes Special Effects Locations The Cast The Art of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Part One: The Ancient World Part Two: The Modern World Part Three: Otherworldly Adventures About the filmmakers

I really enjoyed reading the book and being able to see the art work that was done for the movie. I am also a history buff and they offer some fun details on the history of China which is pretty cool. Anyone interested in the art of filmmaking or is a big fan of the Mummy movies needs to check this book out! Here are some pictures for ya! 

Venkman here with some t-shirt art representing James Cameron's next film 'Avatar'. I am not sure this is incredibly exciting or not. Sure! I'm excited for the movie! But this T-shirt art really doesn't get me excited about it at all. I mean, its a t-shirt. How much information can you put on a t-shirt? All it has on it is a silhouette of one of 'Avatars' Na'vi creatures. It gives you an idea of the shape of the thing. Maybe they will hand some of these out at Comic-Con, who knows. I am really stoked for this movie, but I don't think the shirt is even close to a tease. When James Cameron is ready to start showing the fans REAL art and movie teasers I will get that crazy geek feeling inside. From what marketsaw says these t-shirts were raffled off to various crew members, by actor Sam Worthington. But here are the pics of the shirt if you want to check em out, which I found over at marketsaw 

Venkman here - If you guys didn't get a big enough testosterone boost from that awesome Max Payne trailer that was recently released here are some new pictures that have been released that look pretty cool. I love the style of this movie! Check em out mates!

Venkman here and I got some terrific news! The Star Wars Fanboys every where have spoken! The 'Fanboys' film thay has gone through such a terrible ordeal is now back in the hands of the fanboys that made the film! And it looks like we are going to get the original cut of the film that The Weinstein Company felt they needed to change! On top of that! There may end up being a screening of the film at Comic Con! Here is the official statement:

Fellow Star Wars Fans, The battle to save Fanboys is over! AND WE WON! The Weinstein Company has decided to listen to the outcry from Star Wars fans around the globe! They have restored the original plotline and have given the movie back to the Star Wars fans who made it! The film has been given back to the original director and he is currently editing the final version at Skywalker Ranch! The original cut of the movie will be released in theaters later this year! And there are rumors of a sneak preview of the film happening at the San Diego Comic-Con! We hereby end our boycott of the Weinstein Company! The studio has earned our respect and gratitude by actually listening to their target audience. Our thanks go out to everyone who lent their voices to the Stop Darth Weinstein campaign, and to the thousands of fans who took the time to email the studio. When the original version of Fanboys is released later this year you should all take pride in knowing that you helped make it happen! When the official release date for Fanboys is announced we will post it here! May the Force Be With You Always! Sincerely, Jek Porkins Zev Senesca Biggs Darklighter Dack Ralter & the SDW Squadron  

 

Wow! This thing Is awesome! I still have a lot to learn about this new iPhone. This I'd pretty much a test to make sure it works. I will be using it a lot when we are up at Comic Con. To keep you all updated on the latest and greatest breaking Geek news that we come accross up there. So make sure to check in for the latest updates if you can't make it to the Con! the spelling and grammar may not be so good but it works! -Dr. Venkman

Venkman here - Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! But we all knew it was going to happen. I didn't see the movie thant the gods my wife never watched the show! I saw too many of my friends dragged by the hair by their significant others to that movie. The crazy thing is... they liked it. What!? I know, right? Its crazy! Well Sex and the City made over $146 million dollars thats why there will be a sequel. Here is what EW is reporting:

After months of idle talk, HBO has confirmed that a sequel to the Sex and the City movie is in the early stages of development Michael Lombardo, president of HBO's programming group, told a group of reporters at the cable network's annual press tour in Los Angeles today, "We're really heartened by the fans' enthusiasm. Absolutely, there is a lot of energy behind doing another SATC movie."

This is a film Warner Bros. wants to put on the fast track, but guess what? They have no script. I love how Hollywood greenlights movies without a script! Here is an idea for the title! 'Sex and the City, More Sex, More City' Bam! Sold! Are the actresses even on board yet? Not so much.

the lead actresses involved are taking a cautious attitude towards another film, not wanting to rush a sequel and risk disappointing their loyal fans.

The don't want to disappoint the loyal fans. At least the care. as for me, I could care less. But congrats to the fangirls you got your wish.

Venkman Here and I got the Comic-Con 2008 Sunday July 27th schedule! All of us that go to the Con know that Sunday is Kids day! Yay! But it dosent mean there are some other cool things to check out! So here is the list! I have Highlighted in red the highlights! Remember to look for us at the Con so you can get a free GeekTyrant t-shirt! Sunday, July 27 10:00-11:00 Smallville Screening and Q&A- Comic-Con favorite Smallville returns, with new showrunners Kelly Souders, Brian Peterson, Todd Slavkin, and Darren Swimmer joining cast members to talk about the year ahead, answer fan questions, and give an exclusive sneak peek at clips featuring the new villains for season eight. Award-winning comic book writer, Emmy-nominated film and television writer/producer, and Smallville alum Jeph Loeb (Heroes) moderates the session. From Tollin/Robbins Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Smallville airs Thursdays at 8:00 PM on The CW. Room 6CDEF Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Television 10:00-11:00 Jack Kirby Tribute- As we do every year, friend and family of the great Jack Kirby to remember the man some call The King. Participating this year are animation producers Joe Ruby and Ken Spears, Marvel writer-artist Larry Lieber, and comic book legend Jerry Robinson. And it's all hosted by-who else?-Mark Evanier, author of the recent book, Kirby: King of Comics. Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 10:00-11:00 The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd LIVE!- You can participate in a LIVE recording of the podcast the LA Times calls: "A Prairie Home Companion for kids!" Set your imagination to fun with Dr. Floyd as he travels through time trying to thwart the plans of his arch-nemesis Dr. Steve in this family-friendly hour of laughter, music, and audience participation. This program features show stars Doug Price (Star Trek IV) as Dr. Floyd and Grant Baciocco (Henson.com podcast) as Dr. Steve, along with special celebrity guests: the legendary Chuck McCann (Sid and Marty Krofft's Far Out Space Nuts),Frank Conniff (Mystery Science Theater 3000), Moira Quirk (Nickelodeon's GUTS!) and, quite possibly...you! Room 8 Categories: Kids 10:00-5:00 San Diego International Children's Film Festival- The 5th Annual San Diego International Children's Film Festival opens right here on Kids' Day at Comic-Con International! The festival will screen short films for children of all ages from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Room 10, including animation, live action, and documentary. Filmmakers will appear to answer questions from the audience. Complete schedule is coming soon! Room 10 Categories: Animation | Kids | Movies 10:15-11:15 Nickelodeon: SpongeBob SquarePants Sneak Peek, and More!- Be the first to watch some brand spanking new episodes of one of your favorite Nickelodeon shows, SpongeBob SquarePants! And there's more! You'll also catch a never-before-seen episode from Nick's latest breakout hit, The Mighty B!, and watch the hilarious antics of Otis and his friends from the Emmy-nominated show Back at the Barnyard. Plus, you'll be the first to get a sneak peek at an upcoming Nickelodeon series. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television 10:30-11:30 Muggles, Wizards, and Fans in the World of Harry Potter- Panel members Erin Pyne (author of A Fandom of Magical Proportions), Sue Upton (senior editor of www.the-leaky-cauldron.organd co-host of Pottercast), Melissa Anelli (author of Harry: A History), and Heidi Tandy (webmaster, Fiction Alley) will have wands at ready as they discuss what makes Harry Potter fans so different from members of other fandoms. How has the HP fandom affected the development of the books and movies? Moderated by notorious Muggle Eric Bowling. Room 2 Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 10:30-11:30 Spotlight on Jim Ottaviani- Join Jim Ottaviani (Levitation; Bone Sharps, Cowboys, and Thunder Lizards; Fallout; Two-Fisted Science) for a Sunday morning combination of interview and Q&A. He'll discuss nuclear engineering, comics about scientists, upcoming projects, how to stay calm when Buzz Aldrin calls (hint: you don't, but he's used to that), and what to do when the Nobel Museum asks you to speak (hint: you say yes). Room 3 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy 10:30-11:30 Zuda Online Comics- Read. Vote. Create. With those three little words, Zuda is changing the face of webcomics. Panel participants include Zuda staff Richard Bruning, Ron Perazza, Kwanza Johnson, and Dave McCullough, along with creators Jeremy Love (Bayou), Bobby & Peter Timony (The Night Owls), David Gallaher & Steve Ellis (High Moon), Nick Doan (Pray for Death), Johnny Zito & Tony Trovarello (The Black Cherry Bombshells), Sheldon Vella (Supertron), and Caanan Grall (Celadore). Listen as they ramble incoherently, pausing occasionally to make a good point. Room 4 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Webcomics 10:30-12:00 CBLDF Live Art Jam- Did you ever want to look over a legendary artist's shoulder while he or she was making a great piece of art, and then add it to your collection? Well, here's your chance to do just that and support a great cause! See Whilce Portacio (Spawn), Terry Moore (Echo), and other special guests draw live art projected on the big screen at the first ever CBLDF Live Art Jam at Comic-Con! Watch comics legends make stunning drawings of your favorite comics characters that you can bid on to support the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund! Don't miss this unforgettable event and your chance to walk away with some stunning art! Note: you will need a bidder number to bid on art in this event, which you can pick up at the CBLDF booth or at the start of the event. Room 5AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Books | Comics Law School 10:30-11:30 Marvel: Women in Marvel- She-Hulk and Ms. Marvel are powerhouses in the Marvel U-now meet the real women powerhouses who work in Marvel Comics today! Writers Robin Furth (Dark Tower) and Marjorie Liu (NYX), editor Jen Grunwald, colorist Christina Strain (Runaways), and blogger Valerie D'Orazio (Occasional Superheroine) are here to answer your question about their titles, announce new projects, and explain how more women are breaking into comics every day! Room 6A Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Webcomics | Writers & Writing 10:30-11:30 It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia- The FX hit comedy series It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is coming to the Con. See an unaired episode from the upcoming season followed by a panel discussion featuring series stars Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton, Charlie Day, Kaitlin Olson, and director Fred Savage. The panel will be moderated by Damon Lindelof, creator/executive producer of Lost. Attendees of the screening and panel have the chance to win one of thousands of prizes. Ballroom 20 Categories: Humor & Satire | Television 10:30-11:30 Christian Comics Art Society- Hear about the 2008 explosion of Christian-themed projects from major publishers and network with other Christians. Featuring Michael Davis (co-creator, Static Shock), Sergio Cariello (The Lone Ranger), Jerrell Conner (Revelations: The Prophets), Clint Johnson (Faith Walker), and hosted by Leo Partible (Behind the Screen: Insiders on Faith, Film & Culture). A short sermon by Robert Luedke (Eye Witness) and worship music will precede the panel discussion. Room 24A Categories: Comic Books 10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #13: Comics Construction: Literary and Visual Representations- Frank Verano (Temple University) compares Eddie Campbell's de/re-construction of the past in his Alec stories to the work of film director Alain Resnais. Jason Frank (Youngstown State University) uses pages of comic art by Scott Wegener to display the application of Proust's iterative mode in the comics art form. Michael Harrison (University of California at Irvine) explores how the visual imagery in gay Spanish comics allows cartoonists to comment on various conceptions of gender, sexual, and national identity. Room 30AB Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books 10:30-11:30 Kids Draw!- Join a great lineup of kids' cartoonists as they draw their hearts out-right in front of you! Cartoonists including Nick Abadzis (Laika), Scott Morse (Visitations), Andy Runton (Owly), Kean Soo (Jellaby), and Dave Roman (Nickelodeon) will create art as you watch-with your help! Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Kids 11:00-12:00 Dave Stevens Tribute- The industry was shocked and saddened at the loss this year of one of our great creative talents. Emcee Mark Evanier chairs an hour of remembrance by Dave's fans and friends as they talk about the creator of The Rocketeer...a great artist who left us much too early. Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Movies 11:00-12:30 Asian Ball Jointed Dolls 101/Collectors Meeting- Doll owners and enthusiasts discuss the world of Asian ball-jointed resin dolls from companies like 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 8 Categories: Action Figures, Toys and Collectibles | Costuming | Fandom 11:15-12:15 Supernatural Screening and Q&A- Supernatural stars Jensen Ackles (Smallville) and Jared Padalecki (House of Wax)-along with creator/executive producer Eric Kripke (Boogeyman), co-executive producers Ben Edlund (Angel) and Peter Johnson (Supernatural: Origins comic book series), and supervising producer Sera Gamble (Eyes)-present exclusive sneak peek footage from the highly anticipated fourth season premiere of this thrill-ride series, answer questions, and show a portion of the special features from the upcoming third 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. Room 6CDEF Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Kyle Baker- Between the rich history of Nat Turner, the family hijinks of The Bakers: Babies & Kittens, and the wild war in Special Forces, it's been a busy year so far for Kyle Baker! The Eisner Award-winning writer/artist talks about all this stuff and what's next. Room 2 Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 11:30-12:30 Graphic Novel Help in Libraries- Graphic novel collections are booming in libraries. How can a librarian manage when there seems to be a new "must have" title coming out every week? Jill Patterson (La Habra Branch Library) Merideth Jenson-Benjamin (Glendale Public Library), John Shableski (Diamond), and Hillary W. Chang (McCully-Moiliili Public Library) discuss practical ways for librarians to survive their GN collection. Room 3 Categories: Comic Books 11:30-12:30 Growing up with Archie- Archie Comics creative staff share inside perspectives on the creation of Archie, how Archie Comics has evolved, and why it dominates the newsstands and supermarkets in comic sales. Panelists include Victor Gorelick, editor-in-chief (celebrating his 50th year with Archie Comics); Fred Mausser, VP sales; Mike Pellerito, managing editor; George Gladir, Archie writer; Dan Parent, Betty & Veronica writer and artist; Tania del Rio, Sabrina writer and artist, Bill Galvan, "Archie Freshman Year" artist; Batton Lash, "Archie Freshman Year" writer; Craig Boldman, Jughead writer; and moderator Rik Offenberger, public relations coordinator. Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 11:30-1:00 The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning- The sea holds many deep secrets for young Princess Ariel in The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning, an all new, full-length movie coming exclusively to DVD on August 26. Available for a limited time only, The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning takes audiences back to the story's beginnings with favorite characters from the original film as well as a wonderfully wicked new villainess. With a score that continues The Little Mermaid's legacy of memorable, life-affirming songs, the latest animated adventure from DisneyToon Studios will capture the hearts of all ages! Room 6B Categories: Animation | Kids 11:30-12:00 Focus Features: Hamlet 2- Focus Features invites you to preview the much talked about hit at this year's Sundance Film Festival, Hamlet 2! Featuring appearances by Steve Coogan (24 Hour Party People, Night at the Museum and the upcoming Tropic Thunder), Elisabeth Shue (Adventures in Babysitting, The Karate Kid), writer Pam Brady (South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut, Team America: World Police), and writer/director Andrew Fleming (The Craft, Dick). There will be other surprise appearances, so don't miss it! Ballroom 20 Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies 11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #14: Postmodernism and Revolution- Keith Haughton (University of Waterloo) explores how the rise in popularity of the comic book form has blurred the boundaries separating childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, and the potential impact of expanding adolescence. Alec Hosterman (Indiana University South Bend) demonstrates the dominance of hyperreality in comic art and explains how it can be utilized for further study of the art form. Harry Althoff, Meredith Heist, and Lisa Miller (Truman State University) take a close look at three factors that make webcomics a revolutionary medium: author-text relationship, hypertextuality, and persistence of noncorporate ownership. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Webcomics 11:30-12:30 How to Draw Star Wars for Kids- Special for Kids' Day at Lucasfilm's Bonnie Burton and artist Katie Cook will help kids (and their folks, too) draw Star Wars characters that are fun and whimsical. Bonnie Burton is the author of the book You Can Draw: Star Wars (DK Publishing). Bonnie also works as the Lucas Online senior editor, editing the drawing tutorials and craft projects that can be found at www.starwars.com/kids. Katie Cook (katiecandraw.com) has done licensed art for Star Wars, DC, Marvel, Heroes, Lord of the Rings, and other such nerdy things. She often dreams of being a Wookiee, which explains why she could use a haircut. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops 11:45-12:45 DC Nation: One Weekend Later- Did you think one DC Nation panel was enough? You thought wrong! So much has happened with the DCU during Comic-Con but right here senior VP-executive editor Dan DiDio saves one last blockbuster announcement for the Nation! This is the panel to be at! Room 6A Categories: Comic Books 12:00-1:00 Phineas and Ferb- Join creators Dan Povenmire (Family Guy) and Jeff "Swampy" Marsh (Rocko's Modern Life) along with special guests from the show's cast to learn more about Disney Channel's newest smash hit series, including an insider's look at how the show came to life and what's in store for these inventive step-brothers and their tattletale sister in the future. Plus never-before-seen footage, audience Q&A, and a chance to win Phineas and Ferb merchandise! Room 5AB Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television 12:00-1:00 The Business of Cartoon Voices- Lots of people think they can do them...but how does one go about making a living as a voiceover actor? Co-hosts Mark Evanier and Earl Kress gather together a panel of agents, casting directors and performers to explain all about agents, casting directors, demos, classes, what to do and (most important) what not to do. If you've ever been interested in a career in the field, this is the panel you've been waiting for. Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 12:00-12:45 Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay- Comedy legends Harold, Kumar, and NPH (Kal Penn, John Cho, and Neil Patrick Harris) appear live and in-person ato talk about the creation of their latest masterpiece-Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay-available on DVD on July 29. Don't miss the stars of this cult classic comedy franchise as they talk about their experiences making the films and the plethora of extras features on the DVD including "Dude, Change the Movie!" where the viewer decides what Harold and Kumar do next. Ballroom 20 Categories: Humor & Satire | Movies 12:00-2:00 Browncoats Fan Group- Calling all Browncoats! Fans of Firefly and Serenity are welcome to join the California Browncoats to hear about upcoming events and products that you'll really love. Stop by and listen to some quality storytelling by 'verse-related and 'verse-friendly authors. And last but not least, come to meet and hang out with all the great Browncoats at Comic-Con! Room 24A Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 12:30-1:30 Emily the Strange- What's black and white and strange all over? Emily the Strange comics from Dark Horse! This is your chance to get a behind-the-scenes peek at the world of Emily the Strange. Panelists cover everything from the inspired and slightly insane comic book series, the best-selling books, news from the movie front, and much more! Emily's legal guardian and creative monstermind Rob Reger will be there, along with artists Buzz Parker and Nix Turner, writer Jessica Gruner, Dark Horse editor Shawna Gore, and a two-headed kitty who lives on the moon. (Okay, so no promises on the kitty, but she said she'd try to make it.) Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Kids | Movies 12:30-2:00 The Secret Origin of Good Readers- The 8th annual Secret Origin of Good Readers panel features Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University, San Diego), Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City), Bill Galvan (creator/artist, The Scrapyard Detectives; artist, Archie Comics) and Steven Seagle (creator/writer, Ben 10, It's a Bird, American Virgin). 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 have been 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 it here courtesy of XMission.com. Room 3 Categories: Comic Books 12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Steve Breen- Pulitizer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist Steve Breen (San Diego Union Tribune) is part of Comic-Con's special editorial cartoons theme this year. The cartoonist talks about creating topical cartoons, his comic strip, Grand Avenue, and his children's books, Stick and Violet the Pilot, with moderator Bob Kittle. Room 4 Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing 12:30-1:30 Paranormal State- See the stars of the hit A&E series Paranormal State: Ryan Buell, Eilfie Music, Sergey Poberezhny, Heather Taddy, and Katrina Weidman. Be the first to see the Season 2 premiere of Paranormal State, the show that seeks out the truth behind terrifying real life mysteries, hauntings, and ghosts. Hear the cast share behind-the-scenes details not revealed in the show. Moderated by Dave Schrader of Darkness Radio. Room 6CDEF Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 12:30-1:30 Nick Jr. Presents: Backyardigans and Ni Hao, Kai-lan- This is a must-see screening for all you Nick Jr. fans! Catch a brand new episode from the Emmy Award-winning show, Backyardigans. And then sit back for some more Nick Jr. fun with a music and dance filled episode of Ni Hao, Kai-lan. Room 8 Categories: Animation | Kids | Television 12:30-1:30 How to Draw Monsters- Marshall Vandruff will show drawings of monsters by great masters and explain how the way they work has not changed in over 500 years. He'll demonstrate how to come up with ideas for monsters and draw them. Room 30CDE Categories: Art and Illustration | Kids 1:00-2:30 The Life of Michael Turner Tribute Panel- Celebrate the life and times of acclaimed artist, creator, and Aspen Comics president and founder Michael Turner, as Aspen Comics and a host of popular comic book creators pay special tribute to the creator of the best-selling titles Fathom, Soulfire, and Witchblade, and the cover artist behind the mainstream comic event hits Marvel's Civil War and DC Comics' Identity Crisis and Justice League of America. In honor of Turner's tremendous spirit and body of work, as well as his countless contributions to the comic book industry, Aspen Comics will return the favor by remembering Michael Turner's amazing life both in and outside of comics at this very special tribute event. Room 5AB Categories: Comic Books 1:00-2:30 Chowder and The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack with Underfist Sneak Peek- You've laughed your butt off watching the shows, now meet the creators of Chowder and The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack! Chowder creator Carl Greenblat and voice talents Nicky Jones (Chowder), Dwight Schultz (Mung Daal), and Tara Strong (Truffles) join The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack creator Thurop Von Orman, creative director JG Quintell, and writer/voice talent Steve Little for the funniest panel discussion you'll attend all weekend. And that's not all! You'll also get to grill Adam Burton (The Grim Adventure's of Billy and Mandy) on the sneak peek at his twisted new spectacle-Underfist. Room 6A Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television 1:00-2:00 Marvel: TV Writers of Marvel- Heroes, Eli Stone, Carnivale, Underworld, and Big Love. You love these shows & films, but did you know the writers behind them are also at Marvel? Find out what's in store for some of TV, movies, and comics' biggest projects from the people behind them with Jeph Loeb (Ultimates), Aron Coleite (Ultimate X-Men), Joe Pokaski (Secret Invasion: Inhumans), Marc Guggenheim (Amazing Spider-Man), Daniel Knauf (Iron Man), Kevin Grevioux (New Warriors), and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (The Stand)! Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Television | Writers & Writing 1:00-1:30 Friday the 13th- Sneak a peek at the new movie retelling the original Friday the 13th about teenaged summer camp counselors who are systematically slaughtered by a mysterious killer. Ballroom 20 Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies 1:00-2:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #15: Capes, Tights and Gowns- Travis Langley (ERIICA Project) and Randy Duncan (The Power of Comics) present Henderson State University students reporting on research ranging from studying fan behavior and self-image to the experience of creating their own workday comic book. Danny Fingeroth (Disguised as Clark Kent; Write Now!) provides a response. Student presenters include Erica Ash, Tommy Cash, Carly L. Cate, Mark Head, Nick Langley, Robert O'Nale, Justin Poole, Thomas Sepe, and Nicholas Ward. Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Fandom 1:15-2:30 Cartoon Voices II- It's another one of those panels where folks who do animation voice work demonstrate their craft and dazzle you with their talents. Co-hosts Mark Evanier and Earl Kress welcome Chris Edgerly (Harvey Birdman, Celebrity Deathmatch), Dee Baker (American Dad, SpongeBob SquarePants), Cheryl Chase (Rugrats, All Grown Up), Katie Leigh (Dungeons & Dragons, Totally Spies!), Billy West (Futurama, Ren & Stimpy) and a few surprises. Room 6B Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances 1:30-2:30 30 Years of Pointed Ears: Wendy and Richard Pini and Elfquest- Join Wendy Pini (Elfquest, Masque of the Red Death) and Richard Pini (Elfquest, CEO Warp Graphics) for a visual presentation that includes Wendy's pioneering career as writer/artist, colorful stories about publishing Elfquest, current and upcoming projects and, quite possibly, a few surprises. Q&A for sure! Dare to ask anything! Room 2 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy 1:30-2:30 Magic, Mystery, and Missions: Huntik: Secrets & Seekers- This animated TV adventure series will be taking over the airwaves in January 2009! Get a sneak peek at this new show-including footage never shown publicly before-and learn about the heroes, villains, and mythical creatures that make up this exciting story! Plus, while supplies last, each attendee will receive an exclusive Huntik: Secrets & Seekers gift! Room 4 Categories: Animation | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 1:30-2:30 CMX: Manga for the Masses- Manga is one of the hottest areas in literature, and DC Comics' manga imprint, CMX, is right in the thick of it. Hear director of manga Asako Suzuki, CMX editor Jim Chadwick, and the CMX crewdiscuss the brilliance of their manga universe, including such books as Crayon Shinchan, Astral Project, Steel Fist Riku, Dorethea, Go West, Two Flowers for the Dragon, Zombie Fairy, and much, much more! Room 8 Categories: Anime & Manga | Comic Books 1:30-2:30 Rogue Pictures- Rogue Pictures presents select footage, key cast members, and filmmakers from its upcoming 2009 slate. Scheduled appearances include writer/director Wes Craven, discussing his suspense thriller 25/8, and writer/director David Goyer, discussing his supernatural thriller The Unborn. Ballroom 20 Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies 1:30-2:30 Manga Art for Kids- eigoMANGA's artists behind manga hits Rumble Pak and Sakura Pakk provide beginner step-by-step tutorials and related resources on Japanese comic books and animation to help you learn how to draw and develop your own unique style of anime or manga. Room 30CDE Categories: Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Kids 1:45-2:45 Ghost Whisperer Season Four: The New Spirit Mythology of Melinda- Be on hand for revelations about the mysteries that will unfold in the upcoming season of the hit television series, the introduction of a new cast member Jamie Kennedy, and an exclusive first look at video clips from the season premiere episode. Panel will feature Jennifer Love Hewitt ("Melinda"), Jamie Kennedy ("Eli"-a new series regular cast member in season four), and executive producers Kim Moses, Ian Sander, and PK Simmons. Room 6CDEF Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 2:00-3:00 The 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), and "Building Comics & Graphic Novels Collections in Classrooms and Libraries" with Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics). Room 3 Categories: Comic Books 2:00-3:30 Starship Smackdown XI- The legendary Comic-Con exclusive celebrates another year of stellar showdowns as the original and infamous Starship Smackdown returns. Ever wonder if the USS Enterprise could take out the ID4 mothership (hint: Kirk's can!)? Can the Galactica find Earth and destroy the Yamato (of course, it's a cartoon)? Can the Serenity outplay, outwit, and outlast the fully functional firepower of an Imperial Super Star Destroyer? You'll find out the answers to all of these questions and many more from the panel of expert spaceship-ologists, including Robert Meyer Burnett (The Hills Run Red producer), Jeff Bond (Geek Monthly editor), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars writer), Daren Dochterman (GI Joe production illustrator), Mary Forest (writer/comedian), and the Jeff Probst of the stars, moderator Mark A. Altman (DOA: Dead Or Alive, Free Enterprise). And it wouldn't be Starship Smackdown without a few surprises, so expect the unexpected. Those in the know, realize the Smackdown is the only way to close out your weekend the San Diego way! Room 7AB Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television 2:00-3:00 Indyfans and the Quest for Fortune and Glory- Join the filmmakers of the documentary that focuses on Indiana Jones' legacy and the fans that follow him! There will be a Q&A regarding the progress of the documentary as well as a general discussion on all things Indiana Jones, and maybe even a few giveaways! Room 24A Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy 2:30-3:30 Sunday Conversation with Dan DiDio- Dan DiDio and friends invite you to join an intimate Sunday afternoon chat to talk about your favorite comic book memories and why we all love this medium. All are welcome; no RSVP required! Room 2 Categories: Comic Books 2:30-4:00 Pro/Fan Trivia Match- The Purple Pros-Len Wein (Wolverine creator), Mark Waid (BOOM! Comics editor-in-chief), Kurt Busiek (Astro City), and Robert N. Skir (animated X-Men)-again take on the Black Ink Irregulars (Tom Galloway, Terence Chua, David Oakes, and John Sardegna), this time seeking to regain their youth by answering questions about young comics characters, those college age or below, including the convention theme Legion of Super-Heroes. This match is dedicated to longtime scorekeeper John Simpson, who passed away last October. Room 4 Categories: Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Fandom | Superheroes 2:30-4:00 Cover Story: The Art of the Cover- It's our annual soul-searching question: whether or not you can tell a book by its cover. Moderator Mark Evanier interviews four of the top cover artists in comics (and all Comic-Con 2008 special guests): Jim Starlin (Captain Marvel, Warlock), Bryan Hitch (The Ultimates, Fantastic Four), J.G. Jones (52, Final Crisis), and Ethan Van Sciver (Flash, Green Lantern). Evanier presents examples of each artist's cover work and talks to them about the covers and the process of creating them. It's a fascinating look at what many regard as the most important part of any comic. Room 5AB Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic Books | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Superheroes 2:30-5:00 Comic-Con 2008 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 Examination of Comic-Con- Matthew Smith (The Power of Comics; Wittenberg University) and his students report on their observations of how popular culture is marketed to and practiced by the fans attending Comic-Con. The student presenters include: Jessica Brewer (Wittenberg University), Sara McKinniss (Wittenberg University), Jacob Sigafoos (Wittenberg University), Christian Steinmetz (Georgia State University), Brian Swafford (Ohio University), Emily Elliott (North Carolina State University in Raleigh), and Ally Datz (Lynchburg College). Room 30AB Categories: Comic Arts Conference | Comic Books | Fandom 2:30-3:30 Making Flipbooks: The ABCs of Animation for Kids- Children's illustrator and cartoonist Mac McCool will show children how to draw their first animation using small flipbooks. McCool will also explain simple animation techniques and present ways to build one's own flipbooks. Suggestion: bring a pencil or pen. Room 30CDE Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Kids | Seminars & Workshops 2:45-3:45 Sockbaby 4 World Premiere!- The web series that became an American kung-fu cult classic, Sockbaby was budgeted at $300 an episode, yet generates over half a million viewers! Watch original three shorts played back to back, then stay for the world premiere of Sockbaby 4 starring Doug Jones (Hellboy 2, Pan's Labyrinth) and Jon Heder. Panelists include Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory), Dan Heder (animator, Monster House), Rob Schrab (director, Sarah Silverman Show, SCUD creator), Doug TenNapel (writer/director, creator of Earthworm Jim, Creature Tech), and John Soares (co-director, actor, fight choreographer). Room 6A Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire 2:45-4:15 Fraggle Rock- Help celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Fraggle Rock and learn more about this fall's newest DVD release! Join Red-making a personal appearance-as she sneak peeks the DVD special features and some other DVD surprises! Room 6B Categories: Kids | Television 2:45-3:45 Virgin Comics: Grant Morrison and Deepak Chopra: The Spirit of the Superhero- The tradition continues! As Virgin Comics gears up to launch the new animated on-line series MBX, series writer Grant Morrison (New X-Men, Superman, Final Crisis) once again teams with best-selling author and Virgin Comics co-founder Deepak Chopra (The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment) to talk...superheroes! Join the ongoing conversation investigating the id, ego, superego, and spirituality of the superhero-we're talking social theory with sound effects, four colors fused with existentialism. Two of the greatest minds of comics and culture talking comics and culture-this is not to be missed! Ballroom 20 Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes | Writers & Writing 3:00-4:30 Milton Caniff's Steve Canyon TV Series 50th Anniversary- Harry Guyton (Milton Caniff Estate), Bob Hoy (Sgt. Charlie Bergeron Steve Canyon), Mrs. Frank Ball (star Dean Frederick's daughter), and John Ellis (Steve Canyon DVD producer) present a discussion of what is quite possibly the most legendary long-lost (and now found) television series in history! Come delve into the mysteries surrounding the most expensive show on TV in 1958. Includes the first public screening of the restored 1959 NBC Steve Canyon episode "Operation Big Thunder" in 48 years. Room 3 Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Fandom | Television 3:30-4:30 Comic-Con Talkback II- It's almost a wrap, but here's your chance to get in your last licks. Join Comic-Con management with your gripes, concerns, and high and low points of this year's event. Room 2 Categories: Talkback 3:30-4:30 Dave Gibbons- He's the artist behind the cult classic Watchmen, one of the writers behind Green Lantern: The Sinestro Corps War, and the hidden genius behind countless other titles. We're talking about Dave Gibbons. Be front and center when Dave talks about his art, his writing, and his love for comics. Moderated by DC VP-sales Bob Wayne, this program is not to be missed! Room 7AB Categories: Comic Books | Superheroes 3:30-4:30 Star Wars: Imperial Costuming 101 (Dressing to Serve the Empire!)- This discussion talks about the basics and essentials for an individual to get into costuming in general but is specifically geared toward making costumes that would be eligible for membership in the 501st Legion. Panelists will discuss basic materials, costs, and time factors involved in building costumes of this nature, as well as provide some insight as to what motivates the members of the 501st to invest the time and energy required for such a hobby. They will also demonstrate some basic techniques that are applied in costuming as well as show the progression of donning the costume. Room 30AB Categories: Costuming | Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Seminars & Workshops 4:00-5:00 Buffy the Musical- Let's end this show with a bang! The powers that be behind Whedonopolis.com host a screening of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer musical episode "Once More With Feeling" as Comic Con 2008'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! These eps were 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, and dancing crazy! Ballroom 20 Categories: Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television  

Venkman here and this is one for the books! Cameron Crowe has written and will be directing a new adventure romantic comedy for Sony Pictures and it is a Sci-Fi Supernatural adventure that takes place on the islands of hawaii? I didn't see that coming but I couldn't be more excited! Resse Witherspoon and Ben Stiller are already attached to star in the film. The script was reviewed by James and Nick over at goneelsewhere.wordpress.com. This movie sounds crazy! I never thoought he would end up doing a movie like this but I like where he is going. Here are a couple things that James and Nick had to say about it:

Nick - What genre would the film fall into? James - Variety's description of "adventure comedy" is correct. "Tropical romantic adventure comedy with light sci-fi and heavy supernatural aspects" is better. Nick - How would you describe the plot? James - A man, close to middle age, having problems with women. Semi-successful, but doesn't know what to do with his life. Has crisis. Meets old flame. Had problems with her. Meets new, exciting, woman. Has problems with her. They're all on Hawaii. Hijinks ensue. You guess the rest.

Now heres where it gets crazy:

Nick - And if you were writing a detailed press release? James - Brian Gilcrest, 37, is a military contractor for the US Army. He hasn't done many things right in life. He's married the wrong women, broke up with the only good one and most people don't like him. His only friend is a military techie named Jeremy who lives in the caves of the Cheyenne Mountains who he's only spoken with on the phone. Brian is an angry man, but he learns that this doesn't bother him. He's just relieved that he doesn't have to pretend to be anything else. Unfortunately, this has also killed his career. However, Gilcrest soon gets a shot at redemption thanks to escalating tensions between the United States and China. The military needs him to set up the launch of a private satellite at his old stomping grounds in Hawaii. There, Gilcrest gets a chance to meet up with "the one who got away", Tracy, her kids and her new husband. He also meets the designated liasion officer for the mission, Major Lisa Ng. Together these two must secure the blessings of the native Hawaiian council and see that the launch happens on schedule. If only they weren't haunted by visions of Hawaiian ghosts in green mists, mistaken for incarnations of the Hawaiian gods Lono and Pele, and prophesied to bring about the Arrival... whatever that is. Oh, and they have to toss a sacrifice into an erupting volcano.

Holy crap! A sacrifice into a volcano! This just sounds over the top! Again I can't believe he is doing this kind of movie. Here is the guy that brought us 'Say Anything', 'Almost Famous', and 'Jerry McGuire'. This just doesn't fit his slate or style! Sure he did 'Vanilla Sky' but that was a remake and not a very good one. But this Untitled Cameron Crowe movie... this sounds great. I honestly can not wait to see what becomes of this film. You have to read the rest of this script review which you can find RIGHT HERE.

 

Hellboy II: The Golden Army was entertaining as hell! It was a blast to watch the big red brute beat the living crap out of the bad guys again! I really liked the first Hellboy movie but I loved this sequel! As great as the first one was this film was much better. Guillermo del Toro was at the top of his game with this one. He knew exactly what the audience wanted to see and put it up on screen.Hellboy II: The Golden Army starts out with a fairy tale story being told to a crazy and awkward looking young Hellboy. The fairy tale being told is the story of The Golden Army and how they came to be. I loved the style this little story was told in, it was very cool. As the movie moves on we then find out that Hellboys relationship with Liz is a bit rocky. Being married I can totally relate to what Hellboy and Liz are going through. I think that most couples in a serious relationship eventually hit the point where they are at in the film. This relationship story plays out through the whole film. The Story of Hellboy II is as solid as can get. Like I said it is built around Hellboy and Liz's relationship. It crazy because this amazingly awesome action packed movie is built around a chick flick. No joke! But I love it! It gives the movie a great heart and there is a lot of feeling and emotion to it. There are no holes in the film that need to be filled. I love that this is a stand alone film and that you didn't really need to see the first one to understand what is going on. One of my favorite scene is when Hellboy saves a baby from being crusshed in a car by a giant ass green plant which helboy ends up fighting and at the same time trying to handle the baby. It was just an all out crazy scene full of fun. The action and fight scenes in this movie were so fun and so cool to watch. The fight choreography was executed so well. The special effects and production design are brilliant. I love the colors and the settings that were used. The tone that was set was awesome. I love Guillermo's mix of practical and CGI effects, they blend seamlessly. I love the use of practical effects in this movie! Technology has come so far with how they can be used, and they have a texture and feel that CG just can't accomplish yet. I can't help but imagine what Guillermo has planned for ‘The Hobbit'! The acting was great! Ron Perlman as Hellboy is so fun to watch in this film! I just love how cool he is. He's got some great one liners. Selma Blair is also great in her role as Liz. I love the effects of Liz when she is on fire it just looks great! Doug Jones as Abe, and Luke Goss, and Anna Walton were all very good. Seth McFarlane as Johann Kraus was a nice interesting character that I enjoyed. I would think it would be hard to act serious in a movie like this, but everyone did a fantastic job. As for Guillermo del Toro's directing... amazing. I love his attention to detail and all the little things he puts in. The way he plays with his music choices is great as well. The guy knows what he is doing and you can tell he had a blast doing it. It really shows in his filmmaking. He is going to end up doing some great films in the future. Hellboy II: The Golden Army was an incredibly exciting and well made film! If you are a fan of the comics, if your not a fan of the comics, a boy or a girl, a woman or a man, you are going to like this movie. If you don't like it then you must not like good movies. Whatever movie you choose to see always remember to enjoy your time ant the movies! -Dr. Venkamn

It was only a matter of time before WB and DC got together to talk about how they can catch up with Marvel in the Comic Book movie business. They have such a huge library of super hero's to choose from! So what have they been discussing? According to Variety:

Warners and sibling DC Comics are holding high-level talks to hammer out a master strategy for their stable of superheroes. Warners has never had such a strategy, and there have long been complaints the studio has been slow to exploit a potential treasure trove of franchises. And while the studio is basking in critical love for "The Dark Knight," it has watched studio rivals rake in big bucks from Marvel Comics characters, and Marvel itself get into the tentpole business.

It is just crazy that no one at WB or DC got together to discuss something like this a long time ago! They had the power before Marvel did so why didn't they do anything about it before? Is it too late to repent? Will the movies they do be any good? The reinventing of Batman with Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale is the smartest move they ever made.  Look at everything they have! look at their library and guess what WB has nothing to show us based on the classic DC universe at Comic Con this year. yes they have 'Watchman' which I can't wait to see but thats not really part of the DC Universe that we are talking about here. There are a few scripts floating around though: 

Warner has scripts it likes for "Justice League: Mortal," which teams up classic DC characters, and "Green Lantern." "Justice League" was close to getting a greenlight until the writers strike hit, and "Green Lantern" has gained heat lately.

'Green Lantern' has Greg Berlanti set to write and direct. Other DC movies that have been set to develop are Joel Silvers 'Wonder Woman' which has been in development for a long ass time, 'The Flash' with David Dobkin set to direct and then rumors of 'Auquaman', which in my opinion should never happen. And then their is David Goyer's Green Arrow 'Supermax' movie that I am really looking forward to. Who knows what will happen to all of these projects after these secret meetings WB and DC take place. They are not talking about anything discussed in the meetings to the outside world, but they have released a statement:

"We're constantly looking at how best to exploit the DC Comics characters and properties."

They would be smart to follow Marvels lead and tie together the DC universe in their movies! Thats what the fans want to see! Marvel has done a great job so far and I am sure they will keep it up. WB and DC really need to care for these superhero properties. And when they start making these movies they better be the same quality or better than what the Dark Knight is going to be. Cheap ass movies like 'Catwoman' won't cut it anymore. Marvel has set the bar for comic book movies anything below that is a crime, who knows 'Batman: Dark Knight' may set a new bar.  I hope the meetings that they are having pays off for them and the fans. We can only hope the people involved will end up making some smart decisions. I am excited to see what WB and DC will end up doing to bring the classic superheros from DC to life. -Dr. Venkman Here are some of DC's Heros and Villian's we could possibly see in the movies!

Amazo Animal Man Bane Batman Birds of Prey Bizarro Black Adam Black Canary Black Manta Blue Beetle Booster Gold Catman Circe Cyborg Superman Darkseid Deadshot Deathstroke Desaad Doomsday Dr. Light Eclipso Elongated Man Felix Faust Firestorm General Zod Granny Goodness Gorilla Grodd Green Arrow Green Lantern Harley Quinn Hawkman and Hawkgirl The Joker Justice League of America Justice Society Killer Frost Lex Luthor Lobo Martian Manhunter Metal Men Metamorpho Mr. Freeze Mr. Mind Mr. Mxyzptlk Mr. Terrific Nightwing Parallax The Penguin Plastic Man Poison Ivy Power Girl The Question Ra's al Ghul Riddler Robin Red Tornado Scarecrow Sinestro Solomon Grundy Starfire Steel Teen Titans Trickster and Pied Piper Two-Face Wonder Woman Zatanna

 

The dark Night is one of the biggest most anticipated movies of the year! it is already selling out showings! we have about 10 days until it is released! So what film trailers are we going to get to see when we go to the movie theater to watch 'The Dark Knight' blow up on screen? Well here they are thanks to Comingsoon.net! These are the Warner bros. Trailers:

Terminator Salvation: The future begins (May 22, 2009) Directed by McG and starring Christian bale Watchman (March 6, 2009) Directed by Zack Snyder Body Of Lies (October 10,2008) Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Russel Crowe

The question is will these trailer pop up online before 'The Dark Knight' opens or after? We will be sure to get them on here as soon as they hit the net. I am most excited to see the 'Watchman' trailer.

UPDATE:

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We can now go ahead and add 'Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince' to that list! Looks like Harry is going to get a 15 second repeat 15 Second teaser trailer, and only with the IMAX screenings. 15 Seconds is as tease as a tease can get. Here is what has been released by IMAX:

There will be a SHORT, 15 second trailer for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince prior to The Dark Knight. Regards, IMAX Corporation

So there ya have it folks! 15 Seconds of Harry Potter fun!    

Ok all you 'Twilight' fans out there here is your first liook at Entertainment Weeklys new cover featuring the 2 main characters from 'Twilight'. From what I gather, the book is about a dreamy Vampire and a regular human high school girl that fall in love with each other. My wife has been reading the books recently and all I hear about is how sweet and amazing this vampire guy is. There is no reason to be jealous though, because we all know that real vampires are evil sons of bitches that will stop at nothing to kill and drink the blood of their victims. You know whats funny about all that though? If I were to tell my wife how hot Kate Bekinsale was in Underworld as a vimpire, she would probably get pissed at me. Check out the EW cover! And below that is a picture of Kate Beckinsdale just for the hell of it. One thing we can all agree on is that vampires are pale.