Wednesday, July 21
Attendees at Comic-Con's Preview Night can also experience special programming, games, and Anime and Film screenings in addition to the giant Exhibit Hall! Here's a rundown of the Wednesday night fun, including the chance to get a first look at the new homes for Anime and Films in the Marriott Hotel and Marina.
Marriott Hotel and Marina
Anime introduces its new big room with four screenings, plus a sushi and pizza meet and greet! Located in the Marriott Hall, the Anime rooms are 4, 5, and 6, with Wednesday night's screenings taking place in Room 4; the party is in the Marriott Hall foyer starting at 7:00 PM.
The Films Department will screen three big movies starting at 6:00 pm in Marriott Hall 2, which will be the home for the Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival on Thursday through Sunday.
Convention Center
Last changed: Thu, Jul 8, 9:02am
6:00-9:00 Special Sneak Peek Pilot Screenings— WBTVG continues its Comic-Con tradition of hosting a special sneak peek premiere event on preview night, this year offering fans two opportunities to screen one of the fall season’s most highly anticipated new series: Nikita, starring international action star Maggie Q. In addition to Nikita, WBTVG will unveil special video presentations related to its other series. Ballroom 20
Comic-Con's Games will be open on the Mezzanine level of the Convention Center on Wednesday night with Room 15A devoted to open gaming.
Thursday, July 22
Last changed: Thu, Jul 8, 9:02am
10:00-11:00 Jeff Smith— The perfect way to start off Comic-Con 2010's program schedule is with a visit withJeff Smith! Jeff discusses his current sci-fi adventure series, Rasl, as well as the upcoming Bone books from Graphix. Highlights include plans for the upcoming 20th anniversary celebration of Bone and all the latest on the Warner Bros. Bone feature film! Room 5AB
10:00-11:00 Anarchy In The USA: 2000 AD Invades Comic-Con— Pat Mills (2000 AD creator) and Keith Richardson (2000 AD graphic novels editor) discuss all things 2000 AD related with a focus on the new mass-market U.S. graphic novels line. Room 9
10:00-11:00 The Spark of Imagination— Peek inside the minds of leading authors and filmmakers to explore how imagination informs the creative process. New York Times bestselling children's author Tony DiTerlizzi(The Spiderwick Chronicles) details the precedent-setting augmented reality used in his new Simon & Schuster novel The Search for Wondla; LAIKA president/CEO Travis Knight (lead animator on the Oscar-nominated stop-motion movie Coraline) explains how his studio will continue to take bold chances in the animated feature film world; and graphic novelist and Comic-Con special guest Doug TenNapel (Earthworm Jim) describes exactly how a blank page comes to be inhabited with his compelling imagery. Geoff Boucher, reporter and HeroComplex.com blogger with the Los Angeles Times, moderates this fascinating panel discussion and Q&A.Room 25ABC
10:00-11:00 Fan's Guide to Comic-Con— Wesley Strawther, Matthew Jeffrey, and Jesse Lopez present their own version of Comic-Con survival tips with an hour of helpful hints any fanboy or fangirl will enjoy. Hear what these three convention veterans (with more than three decades of attendance combined) have to say about getting through your weekend with as few headaches -- and as much fun -- as possible. Room 32AB
10:00-11:00 DreamWorks Animation: Megamind
DreamWorks Animation makes its Comic-Con debut with Megamind. The characters Megamind and Metro Man are jettisoned to Earth as babies when their home planets are destroyed. Megamind crash-lands inside a maximum-security prison, where he evolves into the wicked and diabolical genius he is today, while the dashingly handsome superhero Metro Man grows into the universally adored savior of Metro City, beloved by every man, woman and child -- and especially the city's ace reporter Roxanne Ritchi. These life-long archenemies will rewrite superhero movie lore when they challenge each other to the ultimate showdown of Good vs. Evil! Megamind stars Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Jonah Hill and director Tom McGrath join forces to unveil footage from DreamWorks Animation's November 5 release. Hall H
10:15-11:15 DC Comics Writers Unite!— Originally a successful panel at WonderCon 2010, "Comics Writers Unite!" (see the Comic-Con Souvenir Book for a transcript) brought together a number of special guests to talk about the art of writing. Part of a series of programs at this year's Comic-Con celebrating "The Year of the Writer," this panel features special guests Paul Levitz (Legion of Super-Heroes), Dennis O'Neil (Batman, The Question), and J. Michael Straczynski (Superman, Wonder Woman), along with Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Secret Six), Judd Winick (Justice League: Generation Lost, Power Girl), and moderator James Robinson(Starman, Justice League of America). Room 6DE
10:30-11:30 Tripwire Magazine— Editor-in-chief Joel Meadows, U.S. editor Andy Grossberg, and staff writer/artist Jeff Carlisle from Tripwire magazine discuss the present and future -- digital and otherwise -- of comics, movies, and our genre culture. There may be treats for a lucky few. Room 3
10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search— DC's editorial art director Mark Chiarello presents an informative orientation session that will explain how DC's Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm and MAD magazine publications. If you want to learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, this is the panel for you! 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
10:30-11:30 Danny Elfman
From Pee-Wee's Big Adventure to Alice in Wonderland, composer Danny Elfman discusses his 25-year collaboration with director Tim Burton. Their legendary partnership includes such films as Beetle Juice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Joining Mr. Elfman will be Warner Brothers Records executives to announce their plans to celebrate this quarter-century milestone. Room 6BCF
10:30-11:30 TheOneRing.net Talks The Hobbit movies— Chris Pirrotta, Cliff Broadway, and Larry D. Curtis, staff members from TORn (the gold standard of fansites and a consistent breaking news source) talk about the latest on the two coming Hobbit films, including mainstream news, spy reports, and rumors. Special guests are a possibility; audio and visuals are a given with a Q&A and all sorts of fun. Room 7AB
10:30-11:30 Divas and Golden Lassoes: The LGBT Obsession with Super Heroines— Why do LGBT comic book fans, especially gay men, worship female superheroes? Going beyond just collecting the comics of Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Donna Troy, Saturn Girl, and many more, LGBT fans intensely identify with and take great inspiration from these iconic heroines. To discuss this phenomenon, moderator Charles "Zan" Christensen (Mark of Aeacus) has assembled an esteemed panel featuring Marc Andreyko (Manhunter), Phil Jimenez (The Essential Wonder Woman Encyclopedia), Andy Mangels (founder, "Wonder Woman Day"), and Michael Troy (The Blonde Squad). Room 8
10:30-11:30 The Power of Myth— Fantasy authors discuss claiming world mythology to shape one's own stories. Authors include Comic-Con special guest Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson and the Olympians series),Amber Benson (the Calliope Reaper-Jones Novels), Esther Friesner (Sphinx's Princess), Thomas Greanias(The Promised War), Lev Grossman (The Magicians), Les Klinger (editor, The New Annotated Dracula),Seanan McGuire (the October Daye novels), Michael Scott (the Secret of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series), and Thomas Sniegoski (Where Angels Fear To Tread). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 24ABC
10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #1: Comics in the Classroom— Lisa Vizcarra (Carquinez Middle School) explores the pedagogy for creating a middle school biology curriculum based on the bookBecoming Batman by E. Paul Zehr, who will join the discussion. Kathy Hall (El Camino College) gives an overview of techniques and assignments for teaching Watchmen in the first-year composition course. Robyn A. Hill (National University) and Bill McGrath (National University) provides illustrations and examples of how comics formats can be used for differentiated instruction to English learners. Room 26AB
10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 101: Start Your (Creative) Engines!— Any racer will tell you that the key to winning is preparation. The same is true for creative enterprises—rushing a new property out the door without the proper IP protections in place could be costly. Luckily, help is close by, as the Comic Book Law School series returns to Comic-Con, brought to you by noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book. This interactive lecture series provides a basic foundation for understanding copyright and trademark law. Up first, the basics of protection and ownership of ideas, works of authorship, characters, and names from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees will participate in an interactive discussion about basic rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, as well as new decisions and changes in the law and how they could affect those rights. Along the way, there will be plenty to learn about the protections, and pitfalls, of the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. 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 1.5 credits of California MCLE.] Room 30CDE
10:45-11:45 Cuckoo Nest Films: Hoohah! Heroes Behind the Heroes— This preview of the new filmHoohah! Heroes Behind the Heroes delves into the lives of the creators responsible for writing and drawing some of comics' most beloved heroes and villains, from the whimsical and humorous to the terrifying. It's through their stories in comic books that we come to know these writers and artists on a personal level. Panelists Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Mark Evanier (Groo the Wanderer), Bill Morrison (Simpsons Comics), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), and Scott Shaw! (Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew!) engage in a discussion and Q&A session with director Jerry Hogrewe. Room 6A
11:00-12:00 That Chris Gore Show— Attack of the Show's film expert Chris Gore promises a glimpse into geekdom and a raucus Q&A. Gore will show a preview of his upcoming documentary, present a sneak peek of his new show, and finally answer the burning question, what is the greatest DVD of all time? Room 5AB
11:00-12:00 The Clockwork Girl— The Clockwork Girl is in production as a stereoscopic 3D computer generated feature film based on the comic book series published by Arcana. Producer Sean O'Reilly will talk about how CJ Entertainment financed Dreamworks Animation in 1995 and is now behind The Clockwork Girlthrough Luximation Animation. Alexa Vega (Spy Kids) and Sean Covel and Doc Wyatt (Napoleon Dynamite) talk about the feature film and show an exclusive featurette for The Clockwork Girl. Room 9
11:00-12:00 BOOM! Irredeemable/Incorruptible Panel— Mark Waid's bestselling/multiple selloutIrredeemable took comicdom by storm last year, becoming one of the top-selling independent comics of 2009. Writer Mark Waid and Irredeemable artist Peter Krause look back at the series' beginnings, its future, and its sister series, Incorruptible. Big announcements will be made at this not-to-be-missed panel for any fan of these books! Room 32AB
11:15-12:45 Walt Disney Pictures:
TRON: Legacy— Returning for an unprecedented third year to the fans and convention that started it all, Walt Disney Pictures is pleased to present a special insider look at the upcoming TRON: Legacy. Panelists include filmmakers and talent from the film: director Joe Kosinski, producers Sean Bailey and Steven Lisberger, and cast members Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde, Michael Sheen, and Bruce Boxleitner. The discussion, moderated by Patton Oswalt, is set to include exclusive glimpses of the film, as well as a Q&A involving all panel participants, along with special surprise guests. Hall H
11:30-12:30 Dumbrella— Artists from Dumbrella, one of the most popular online comic collectives, discuss webcomics, independent publishing, and subverting popular culture. Feel free to quiz Andrew Bell (The Creatures in my Head), Meredith Gran (Octopus Pie), Jon Rosenberg (Goats), Richard Stevens III (Diesel Sweeties), and Chris Yates (Chris Yates Studios) about anything your Internet heart desires. Room 3
11:30-12:30 Action Webcomics— Does this sound like you: you love action comics but the big companies aren't hiring you. So you decide to make your own but have no cash for printing and distribution. Web comics could get you past those hurdles but you can't find many action-based comics on the web. Where can you find the tools and inspiration to make your high-octane dream come true? John Van Fleet (Marvel, DC), Dave DeVries (Marvel, DC) and Alex Jimenez (Capcom, Seed Studio) -- the creators of the action packed webcomicBlueshift -- join forces to answer and inspire you to full-throttled Internet expression! Whether your story is science fiction, superhero, fantasy or horror, this seminar will turn the hurdles of creation, promotion, and team building into manageable speed bumps. Q&A session! Room 4
11:30-12:30 DC Nation Convention Kickoff!— The DC Nation invades San Diego and you're invited along for the ride! Celebrate the start of what promises to be an unforgettable convention experience. Your hosts, DC co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee get the party started here! The Nation welcomes all. Room 6DE
11:30-12:30 Mattel and WWE: The Ultimate Tag Team— Take a peek behind the curtain of two of the world's top entertainment companies to learn how WWE's exciting storylines come together and get translated into Mattel's all-new action figure toy line! Get a sneak peek at upcoming products and be the first to hear exciting announcements for the 2011 line. Don't miss out! Join WWE Superstars The Miz and Eve, WWE SVP of creative writing Brian Gewirtz, WWE lead writer Ed Koskey, WWE VP of global licensing Florence DiGiorgio, Mattel toy designers Bill Miekina and Derek Handy, and Mattel WWE brand manager Enrique Ruvalcaba for an action-packed Q&A! Room 7AB
11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Kurt Busiek— The Eisner Award–winning writer and Comic-Con special guest discusses his career -- past, present, and future -- in comics. With a résumé that includes Superman, Justice League/Avengers, Conan, and his own creator-owned projects Astro City and Arrowsmith, Kurt Busiek is one of comics most popular writers! Room 8
11:30-12:30 Iron Man and Rocket Men: Is Stark Industries an Appropriate Model for Private-Industry Space Exploration?— Leading New Space entrepreneurs Mark Street (XCOR Aerospace) and John Hunter(Quicklaunch) discuss realistic options for future space exploration. Presented by the San Diego Space Society (SD Space), the panel also includes Chris Radcliff (SD Space) and Dave Rankin (The Mars Society - San Diego cofounder). Jeff Berkwits (former Amazing Stories editor and two-time Hugo Award nominee) moderates. Room 24ABC
11:45-12:45 Spotlight on Stan and Hunter Freberg— He's the icon who has been at the forefront of pop culture for over 60 years; she's the popular media personality who has entertained audiences on TV and in personal appearances. Stan and Hunter Freberg were such a hit at last year's Comic-Con we brought them back for a return appearance as special guests. Comic-Con stalwart -- and friend of the Frebergs -- Mark Evanier introduces this special spotlight panel. Room 6BCF
12:00-1:00 X-Play LIVE: A Show on Television— Through 12 years, three name changes, and over 1,000 episodes, X-Play has persevered as the most watched video game show on television. Each episode is packed with brutally honest reviews, previews, hands-on demos, and the occasional off-hand reference to early David Cronenberg movies. Hosts Adam Sessler and Morgan Webb, with correspondents Blair Herter,Abbie Heppe, and the X-Play crew, take questions from the audience, reveal world exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, and mock whoever dares ask about the infamous "Crisis Core" review. You'll find out what it really feels like when you win a Telly, how deep cable is a life-changing experience, and why having a career playing video games can actually be as fun as it sounds. Room 5AB
12:00-1:00 Caprica, Battlestar, and Beyond
Hosted by actor/author Richard Hatch (Tom Zarek, Capt. Apollo, So Say We All), this panel features composerBear McCreary (Battlestar, Ureka, Caprica), producer/writer Michael Tayler (Battlestar, Caprica, Star Trek), science consultant Kevin Grazier (Battlestar, Ureka), and special guests. Richard and the panelists will proide reviews, discussion, and Q&A of Caprica, Battlestar Galactica, and the upcoming BSG movie, including trailers.Room 6A
12:00-1:00 Oni Press Presents Panelmonium 2010— Often imitated but never duplicated! Get up close and personal with trend-setting indie comics powerhouse Oni Press. Join in the Q&A with your favorite Oni creators, including Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt (The Sixth Gun), Jarrett Williams (Super Pro K.O.), Rafael Albuquerque (Mondo Urbano), and many more! Get sneak peeks at upcoming Oni projects, news on Oni Press fan initiatives, free Oni comics, prizes, and more! Guaranteed by Oni Press's totally biased employees to be "the most fun you'll ever have at a panel." Room 9
12:00-1:00 Dead Rising 2— Dead Rising 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Capcom's multi-million-selling zombie action video game is here! Dead Rising 2 executive producers Keiji Inafune and Shinsaku Oharaunveil development stories, provide a live demo of creating new weapons, and reveal other exclusive content. Followed by a Q&A session. Room 25ABC
12:00-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #2: So You Think You Can Make Transmedia Entertainment?— Over the past few years, the American entertainment world has discovered the power of transmedia entertainment, with more and more stories getting integrated across film, television, games, the web, and of course, comics. Each new franchise -- from The Matrix to Heroes and Lost, from District 9 to Avatar -- has shown us something new about the ways transmedia franchises can be organized. In a talk addressing fans and media producers alike, Henry Jenkins (USC), author of Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide, offering a vocabulary for discussing how we can tell if it is done well or not. Room 26AB
12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Session: Paul Pope: Inking with Speed and Precision— Paul Pope became an art icon by building unforgettable characters and worlds with his fearlessly fluid and singular line art. Each of his pages appears to be tightly composed but rapidly executed. Bring your sketchbooks and learn the secrets of a fast, but precise approach to inking at this CBLDF Master Session. The original art from the session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF's Art Auction. Room 30CDE
12:00-1:00 Gamera, The Invincible!— Author August Ragone (Chronicle Books' Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Godzilla's No. 1 rival, the original Mutant Flying Turtle himself: Gamera!This program celebrates the first official DVD release of the original 1960s–1970s film series from Shout! Factory, with commentary on how Gamera was created and how the films were made, as well as rare, behind-the-scenes photographs and clips. Find out if Gamera is really full of turtle meat in the Q&A and win copies of Shout!'s latest release Gamera vs. Barugon -- all in one colossal presentation guaranteed to knock you right out of your shell! Room 32AB
12:30-1:30 Bongo Comics Sneak Peek— Bongo Comics offers a mouth-watering preview of upcoming projects featuring The Simpsons and Futurama and a few other surprises. Managing editor Terry Delegeaneand creative director Bill Morrison hosts a panel featuring the writers and artists who create the comics and books based on Matt Groening's phenomenal TV shows. Find out what's in the future for Futurama Comics and what to surmise about Simpsons Comics. And stay tuned for an announcement about the newest addition to the wonderful world of humor comics. This is a "must-attend" panel for all fans of The Simpsons and Futuramaand anyone looking for a place to sit down! Room 3
12:30-1:30 Batman: The Widening Gyre— As Bat-fans know, Batman: The Widening Gyre revealed a previously untold period in Batman's life. DC group editor Michael Marts, series artist Walt Flanagan, and inkerArt Thibert reveal secrets behind the highly anticipated conclusion. Room 4
12:30-1:30 Sci-Fi That Will Change Your Life
What makes sci-fi great, other than awesome explosions and hot aliens? Sometimes it makes you reimagine your place in the universe. Join io9.com staff and friends as they recommend sci-fi from the past year that will entertain you -- and then change your life. Panelists include io9 staff writers Annalee Newitz, Charlie Jane Anders, Meredith Woerner, and Cyriaque Lamar, plus io9 pals Marc Bernardin (The Authority, The Highwaymen), Bonnie Burton (StarWars.com), and Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 7AB
12:30-1:30 Manga for Grown-Ups: Garo, Ax, Gekiga, and the Alternative Manga Revolution— Sean Michael Wilson (editor of Top Shelf's new Ax anthology) and friends present a visual and verbal tour of the past, present, and future of alternative comics from Japan. Featuring rare images, this talk spotlights such gekiga giants as Yoshihiro Tatsumi, Yoshiharu Tsuge, and Masahiko Matsumoto, as well as modern alt-manga fromAx creators such as Imiri Sakabashira, Kazuichi Hanawa, Akino Kondo, Yusaku Hanakuma, and Takashi Nemoto. Plus a special announcement about another exciting gekiga book to come! Room 8
12:30-1:30 City of Heroes Going Rogue: Reinventing a Superheroic MMO— Find out how the world's most popular super-powered MMO is redefining the online gaming experience with City of Heroes Going Rogue. New content and features will allow players to enter a new world with true moral challenges. Fans have been reading stories about heroes dangling on the edge of evil or villains seeking redemption. Now they can live those adventures. Jesse "Ghost Falcon" Caceres (development producer), Melissa "War Witch" Bianco(lead game designer), Matt "Positron" Miller (lead systems designer), and David "Noble Savage" Nakayama(art lead) establish the innovations that will allow your hero or villain to experience the ultimate adventure.Room 24ABC
12:45-1:45 Marvel: Breaking into Comics the Marvel Way— Welcome to the House of Ideas, where the doors have never been more open to new talent than today! Talent liaison C. B. Cebulski is joined by special guestsBrian Michael Bendis, Matt Fraction, Skottie Young, Humberto Ramos, and more to talk about what it takes to make yours Marvel as a profession, from writer to artist to editor and more! Do you have what it takes? Come find out! Room 6DE
1:00-2:00 Video Game Comics: The Next Big Thing— Are video games the biggest thing to hit comics since superheroes? Richard George from IGN explores this phenomenon, along with representatives from Dark Horse, EA, IDW, and WildStorm. Featuring some of the hottest video game properties in comics: Mass Effect,Dragon Age, Gears of War, Fallout: New Vegas, Army of Two, God of War and more, this is one panel fans of either medium won't want to miss! Room 5AB
1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Charlaine Harris— Author and Comic-Con special guest Charlaine Harris gathered a huge fan base with her novels and stories featuring her characters mystery-solving librarian Aurora Teagarden; Shakespeare, Arkansas resident Lily Bard; and the telepathic barmaid who befriends vampires, werewolves, and various other odd creatures, Sookie Stackhouse. Once Sookie and company moved to the small screen with HBO's True Blood, Harris entered the superstar realm. Be a part of the very first Spotlight panel devoted to Charlaine and hear what she has to say about what comes next for Sookie and everyone else! Room 6BCF
1:00-2:00 Ape Entertainment— Learn about Ape Entertainment's current and upcoming Dreamworks Animation line featuring Shrek, Penguins of Madagascar, and Megamind, as well as other Kizoic all-ages brand titles, including Pocket God, based on the bestselling iPhone application. And don't miss out on the bigannouncements of properties coming to Ape Entertainment/Kizoic in 2011, and receive a free comic book simply for showing up at the panel. Room 9
1:00-3:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Steve Rude— Award-winning comics illustrator and Comic-Con special guest Steve Rude will paint a realistic portrait of a beautiful blonde heroine from his imagination. Learn valuable illustration techniques and how to draw the human figure. Recommended for all ages and experience levels. Room 18
1:00-2:00 USA Network's Burn Notice
Bruce Campbell (Sam Axe), Matt Nix (creator and executive producer), and Alfredo Barrios, Jr. (executive producer) host a panel discussion and answer questions about the creative process of evolving an embryonic idea into a finished episode of cable's #1 show. Fans will gain an intimate look inside the world of Burn Notice, complete with war stories from the writer's room and filming on location in Miami. Exclusive video content will include tips on how to survive Comic-Con from your favorite burned spy, Michael Westen (played by Jeffrey Donovan), highlights from all four seasons and an exclusive sneak peek at upcoming episodes. Ballroom 20
1:00-2:00 Hasbro GI Joe
The Hasbro design and marketing teams and representatives from Hasbro Studios -- including Derryl DePriest (Hasbro Marketing), John Warden (Hasbro Design), Aaron Archer (Hasbro Brand IP Development),Jeff Kline (executive producer, G.I. Joe Renegades), and Michael Vogel (Hasbro Studios) -- discuss new initiatives for Hasbro's G.I. Joe brand. Fans won't want to miss details from the showrunner and members of the creative team for the new G.I. Joe Renegades animated television series coming to The Hub network this fall! Also includes Q&A time. Room 25ABC
1:00-2:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #3: New Fun About Siegel and Shuster— Gerard Jones(Networked: Carabella on the Run) leads Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson Brown (grand-daughter of Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson), Brad Ricca (Last Son), and copyright expert Lauren Agostino in a discussion about the creative influences and legal issues surrounding Siegel and Shuster's early characters. Also, Mel Gordon(California State University East Bay) shares insights about Jewish superheroes from his new book Siegel and Shuster's Funnyman: The First Jewish Superhero, co-authored by Thomas Andrae. Room 26AB
1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: Rob Liefeld: Designing Iconic Characters— Learn what it takes to design a character that's lasting, iconic, and cool. Using his legendary creations Deadpool, Cable, and Youngblood as examples, Rob Liefeld shows you the values that go into creating a character who can leap from the comics page and into games, film, television, and merchandise. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's Art Auction! Room 30CDE
1:00-2:00 Digital Bits: Blu-ray Producers 2010— Bill Hunt, Adam Jahnke, and Todd Doogan (of TheDigitalBits.com) drill down on the latest DVD and Blu-ray developments with some of the leading special-edition producers in Hollywood! Panelists include Cliff Stephenson (Rambo: Director's Cut, Expendables),Charles de Lauzirika (Robin Hood, Alien Anthology), Javier Soto (Predators, Mimic, The Devil's Backbone), and Brian Ward (Transformers, G.I. Joe, Max Headroom). Don't miss out on all the insider scoops, audience Q&A, and sneak peeks at great upcoming discs! Room 32AB
1:00-2:00 Sony Pictures Entertainment: Battle: Los Angelesand Salt
Two great new films from Sony Pictures Entertainment are showcased in this Hall H presentation!
Battle: Los Angeles—When unknown forces suddenly and mercilessly attack the City of Angels out of nowhere, it's up to a local Marine staff sergeant (Aaron Eckhart) and a new platoon of unseasoned soldiers to meet the threat. As the invasion hits the streets of LA, these Marines become our first and last line of defense in an intense battle against an enemy unlike any they've ever encountered before. Appearing in person areMichelle Rodriguez, Aaron Eckhart, Neal Moritz, and director Jonathan Liebesman.
Salt -- Opening in theaters everywhere tomorrow, Columbia Pictures brings an exclusive and surprising look atSalt to Comic-Con today, featuring some very special guests. As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honor and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture, but her efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: "Who is Salt?"
Hall H
1:15-2:15 World Premiere of the First Game From 38 Studios— Be among the first in the world to see the video game debut from Curt Schilling's 38 Studios. Hear from the visionaries who have teamed up to create this highly anticipated RPG and the rich world it is set in, including 38 Studios' executive art director Todd McFarlane (Spawn, Spider-Man), executive creator of worlds R. A. Salvatore (Forgotten Realms), lead designer Ken Rolston (Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion), and founder and chairman Curt Schilling. Learn all about this ambitious new project as 38 Studios unveils the name of the game along with the world premiere of the game's first trailer directed by McFarlane. Attendees will also receive a limited-edition poster. Room 6A
1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Dusty Higgins and Van Jensen— Pinocchio the Vampire Slayer creators and Comic-Con special guests Dusty Higgins and Van Jensen are spotlighted in a panel moderated by Heidi MacDonald. The pair talk about the origins of their project, their reactions to the positive feedback -- which included having their debut graphic novel from SLG Publishing named as one of the top 10 best graphic novels for teens by the Young Adult Library Service -- and show art from the upcoming sequel. Room 3
1:30-2:30 Beanworld and the Leguminous Life of Larry Marder!— What is Beanworld? Where does it come from? How did it all begin? Comic-Con special guest Larry Marder and moderator Scott McCloud(Understanding Comics) celebrate the 25th anniversary of Marder's most peculiar comic book experience with a visual presentation and a lively dialogue about his many influences. This is your opportunity to discover whyBeanworld has captivated readers from grade school to grad school over several generations. Be the first to get a glimpse into Marder's next Dark Horse Books original Beanworld graphic novel, Something More!Room 4
1:30-2:30 Comic Book Sunday!— Comic book, film, and video game industry professionals Jhonen Vasquez(Invader Zim), Marv Wolfman (Blade), James Waugh (Blizzard Entertainment), Aaron Mason (Panzer 88),Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), Chris Prynoski (Titmouse Animation), Jim Kruger (Avengers), Oscar A. Torres (Breakthrough Films), and Benjamin Jackendoff (Carr Miller Entertainment) discuss how the Comic Book Sunday! group emerged and how they are actively changing the way the entertainment industry works. Panel topics include how to build an idea to create a universe or franchise; the importance of being well versed in genre, video games, comics, etc.; and how groups like Comic Book Sunday! empower creators and have birthed new projects. The panel will also announce future plans for the group and brand, as well as new film and comic book projects. If you have a passion for cutting-edge comic books, films, and games, please join us for this panel and Q&A session! Room 7AB
1:30-2:30 Bill Plympton's Hair High and Adventures in Plymptoons— Meet "King of the Indie Animators" Bill Plympton (Idiots & Angels) and celebrate the release of his classic hand-drawn animated feature Hair High on DVD. This award-winning film features the voice talents of Sarah Silverman, Dermot Mulroney, David Carradine, Martha Plimpton, and Justin Long in an outrageous romantic zombie comedy that tells the story of a teenage couple murdered on prom night, who return for revenge. This is one "rom-zom-prom-com" you don't want to miss! Also, see clips from Adventures in Plymptoons, a documentary being made about the life and works of this Oscar-nominated animator, featuring interviews with Tom Kenny, Matthew Modine, Michael Showalter, and many more! Filmmakers Alexia Anastasio (Salome) and Kevin Sean Michaels (Vampira: The Movie) will be on hand to discuss the film. Everyone who attends will receive a free Bill Plympton drawing!Room 8
1:30-2:30 Once Upon a Time— Fantasy authors discuss whether Epic Fantasy requires bigger-than-life heroes and heroines. Authors include Lynn Flewelling (The White Road), Christopher Paolini (the Inheritance cycle),Patrick Rothfuss (The Name of the Wind), Brandon Sanderson (The Way of Kings, Book 1 of The Stormlight Archive), Megan Whalen Turner (the Queen's Thief series), and Brent Weeks (the Night Angel Trilogy). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 24ABC
2:00-3:00 Walt Disney Animation Studios: Character Creation!— Throughout the years, Walt Disney Animation Studios has brought us some of the most memorable, unique, and appealing onscreen characters. Disney Animation's upcoming release Tangled introduces a fresh and irresistible new bunch. Nathan Grenoand Byron Howard (directors), Glen Keane (animation supervisor), and other artists from Tangled discuss the creation of their unforgettable characters. Room 5AB
2:00-3:00 DC Focus: Geoff Johns
Geoff Johns's storytelling and creativity fueled event blockblusters Blackest Night and the new Brightest Dayand the character rebirths of Green Lantern and The Flash. As the new chief creative officer of DC Entertainment, Geoff can be expected to deliver even more thrills and excitement as his focus shifts to bringing the DCU to life outside of the comics, starting with the Green Lantern film and many other surprises! Don't miss this panel hosted by Eddie Berganza, group editor, interviewing one of the most exciting talents in comics.Room 6DE
2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Tom Palmer— Comic-Con special guest and legendary comics inker and artist Tom Palmer will be joined by Dean White, color artist on the Kick-Ass comics series, and possibly another member of the creative team for a Q&A session and discussion of the new Kick-Ass series about to be published. Moderated by Mark Waid. Room 9
2:00-3:00 Hasbro Transformers— Aaron Archer (Hasbro Brand IP Development), Matt Proulx (Hasbro Marketing), and Hasbro Design's Michelino Paolino, Brian Wilk, Eric Siebenaler, Alan Roach, and Miyaki Tomoya are joined by Activision's Matt Tieger to talk about what's new with Transformers. The design and marketing teams will present all the latest toys from the new line as well as details about the Transformers: War for Cybertron video game from Activision. Also includes Q&A time. Room 25ABC
2:00-3:30 Animation on a Shoe String— Learn the down and dirty tricks on how to create your own animation studio on a low budget, from the author of Animation on a Shoe String. Find out how to assemble the equipment you will need, how to build or buy equipment, and what software to use to edit and composite your project. Featuring Larry Loc, animation educator and author. Room 30CDE
2:00-3:00 Radical Publishing Panel
Hosted by Ain't It Cool News's very own Harry Knowles, Radical Publishing presents an all-star panel lineup with plenty of surprises, special announcements, and a free raffle ticket for everyone who attends. Panel guests include Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), co-creator and co-writer of Time Bomb; Rick Remender (Punisher), creator and writer for The Last Days of American Crime, soon to be a major motion picture produced by and starring Avatar's Sam Worthington; Peter Milligan (Hellblazer), writer for After Dark, co-created by director Antoine Fuqua and Wesley Snipes; Arvid Nelson (Rex Mundi), writer for the upcoming Oblivion from TRON: Legacy director Joseph Kosinski; Nick Percival (Judge Dredd), creator and artist for Legends: The Enchanted, soon to be a major motion picture from Ron Howard's Imagine Entertainment; David Hine (Spider-Man Noir), writer of Ryder on the Storm and FVZA; Matt Cirulnick (True Crime: New York City), creator and co-writer forEarp: Saints for Sinners; and Keith Arem (Call of Duty series), one of the gaming industry's leading director/producers as well as co-creator for the upcoming Exile. Room 32AB
2:15-3:15 World of Warcraft: Epic Loot— Get your game on outside of Azeroth! A panel of Blizzard Entertainment creative decision makers and licensed partners are on hand for a discussion and unveiling ofWorld of Warcraft-inspired products. In attendance: Chris Metzen, Blizzard Entertainment SVP of creative development; Micky Neilson, Blizzard Entertainment publishing lead; Hank Kanalz, VP/GM of WildStorm andWorld of Warcraft comic editor; Julian Rignall, Future Plus editorial director of World of Warcraft Official Magazine; Jim Fletcher, DC Direct design director; and Cory Jones, Cryptozoic Entertainment president and chief creative officer. Moderated by Kat Hunter, Blizzard Entertainment licensing project manager and host of BlizzCon coverage on DIRECTV. Room 6BCF
2:15-3:15 USA Network's White Collar— Moderated by White Collar's very own conspiracy theorist, Willie Garson (Mozzie), the audience will have a chance to interact with creator Jeff Eastin, stars Matt Bomer (Neal Caffrey), Tim DeKay (FBI Agent Peter Burke), Marsha Thomason (Agent Diana Barrigan), Sharif Atkins(Agent Clinton Jones), and co-EP Jeff King. Fans will get an insider's look into the challenges of writing in Los Angeles while shooting on the streets of New York. In addition to having questions answered about the exciting upcoming season, fans will also view exclusive video content featuring a sneak peek at new episodes in season 2, as well as a video of Neal explaining the ins and outs of how to pull off the perfect con. Ballroom 20
2:15-3:15 Summit Entertainment: RED
Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage from RED. They used to be the CIA's top agents -- but the secrets they know just made them the Agency's top targets. Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren star in RED, an explosive action-comedy based on the cult DC Comics graphic novel by Warren Ellis. Join him, director Robert Schwentke, and the film's stars as they share footage from the film and debut the final trailer before it's ever in theaters. Hall H
2:30-3:30 The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide Turns 40— Celebrate the history and impact of theOverstreet Comic Book Price Guide with former CGC president and primary grader Steve Borock, CBG'sMaggie Thompson, historian Jon McClure, Guide staffers J.C. Vaughn and Mark Huesman, and special guests. Guide creator Robert M. Overstreet is a Comic-Con special guest in celebration of the 40th anniversary. Room 3
2:30-3:30 State of the Geek Report: From Avatar to Zardoz— A panel of experts examine the state of science fiction, fantasy, and horror in film and TV, from the living-ever-longer-and-prospering Star Trek franchise to the future of Star Wars to what the success of Avatar means for the future of movies. Some of geekdom's biggest luminaries, including Steve Melching (The Clone Wars), Ashley E. Miller (Thor, X-Men: First Class), Steve Kriozere (Elvis Van Helsing), Jeff Bond (former Geek Monthly editor), and Bill Hunt and Todd Doogan (Digital Bits), talk about the lackluster state of sci-fi film and television, the rise, fall and rise of Star Trek, and the hits and misses of 2010 that made their midicholorian (and cholesterol) counts rise to dangerous levels this summer. Room 4
2:30-3:30 A Decade of Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Squidbillies and More: The Animated Insanity of Radical Axis Studios— The team from Radical Axis -- animators, artists, and amateur magicians -- celebrate the studio's 10th Anniversary with a look back at its body of work that includes Aqua Teen Hunger Force,Squidbillies, and other cartoon insanity. Scott Fry (CEO), Craig Hartin (VP of production), and Todd Redner(animation director) are joined by friend/collaborator Matt Maiellaro (co-creator, Aqua Teen Hunger Force) for a no-holds-barred Q&A with USA Today's Whitney Matheson. Room 6A
2:30-3:30 BrickJournal: Looking at the LEGO Community— In the past decade, a community of adult LEGO builders has sprung up and created models, websites, and even conventions. The staff of BrickJournal, the magazine for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages, invites you to take a look at the community (and what it builds) at this presentation, with Brandon Griffith (top LEGO builder), Jonathan Bender (author of LEGO: A Love Story),Nathan Sawaya (LEGO certified professional builder), and Jim Foulds (community operations manager for the LEGO Group). The panel is moderated by BrickJournal editor Joe Meno. There will be a Q&A afterward, so if you have any questions about the community, events, builders, or even the LEGO company, this is the place to be! Room 7AB
2:30-3:30 The Sergio & Mark Show— They're back and they're bringing their friends! Comic-Con special guests Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier talk about all things Groo -- plus whatever else is going on -- with co-conspirators Tom Luth and Stan Sakai. Room 8
2:30-3:30 I Can't Write, I Can't Draw, But I Love Comics!— There are tons of jobs in the comics, animation, and gaming industries besides writing and illustration. Companies still need computer programmers, motion-capture actors, retailers, agents, development executives, and publishers. Learn how to get your foot in the door without spilling any ink. Panelists include Rudy Coby (Labman), Jacob Melvin (DreamWorks), Joseph Gatt (God of War), Derek Douglas (Digital Development Management), Steve Goldstein (Stubbs Alderton & Markiles), Matt Cohen (Killspace Entertainment), Jud Meyers (Earth 2 Comics), and Filip Sablik (Top Cow Productions). Moderated by science/tech journalist Susan Karlin (Discover). Room 24ABC
2:30-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #4: Recapturing Copyright for Gold and Silver Age Comic Book Creators— Copyright lawyer Marc Greenberg (Golden Gate University School of Law) covers key developments in the Superman case (Siegel v. DC) and explores the claims filed by the Jack Kirby estate to the rights to the major Marvel Comics characters he created or co-created. Room 26AB
3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Jenette Kahn— For 27 years Comic-Con special guest Jenette Kahn steered the course for DC Comics as its president and publisher, the youngest female executive in Warner Brothers history. Her time at DC resulted in a renaissance of publishing for fans and creators alike. Former DC president and publisher -- and fellow Comic-Con special guest -- Paul Levitz interviews Jenette about her years at the company and her new career in the movie industry as a producer of such hits as Gran Torino. Room 5AB
3:00-4:00 Dark Horse Horror— The publisher that brings you the best stories in horror comics also delivers Comic-Con's best panel on horror comics! Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, writer of the weird Steve Niles(Criminal Macabre, City of Others), and The Goon creator Eric Powell join Dark Horse editors Scott Allie andShawna Gore for this behind-the-screams discussion. Plus, get a blood-curdling first look at the horror books Dark Horse will unleash in the coming year. Room 9
3:00-4:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Felipe Echevarria— Calling all artists! This session will open your eyes to a foolproof method for mixing color based on what actually happens when paint is mixed, rather than using elusive color theories and formulas. It's easy to learn and takes all the guesswork out of color mixing. This is the breakthrough Michael Wilcox Bias Color Wheelsystem. Felipe Echevarria is a registered teacher for the Michael Wilcox School Of Color, and is an accomplished comics/graphic novelist and fine artist. Room 18
3:00-4:00 Kiss Them or Kill Them? Conflict Management for the Creatures Among Us— Urban fantasy and paranormal romance authors discuss when to kill the monster, date the monster...or both and in what order. Authors include J. F. Lewis (ReVamped), Maria Lima (Blood Line series), Adrian Phoenix (the Maker's Song series), Kat Richardson (the Greywalker novels), Diana Rowland (Kara Gillian—Detective and Demon Summoner series), Samantha Sommersby (the Forbidden Series), Anton Strout (the Simon Canderous urban fantasy series), Linda Thomas-Sundstrom (Wolf Moons series), and Rob Thurman (author of the Cal Leandros Novels and The Trickster Novels). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy.Room 25ABC
3:00-4:00 Masters of the Web
Hollywood writer/producer Roberto Orci (Cowboys & Aliens, Transformers, Star Trek) and AMC Theatres blog editor John Campea (AMCTheatres.com/ network/ scriptscreen), moderate a panel of the most popular movie website personalities as they come together to discuss how new media has influenced moviemaking and marketing, what it takes to run a popular site, and much more in a panel discussion and Q&A session. The panel consists of Jen Yamato (former senior editor of Rotten Tomatoes, now writing for Cinematical, Hitfix, Film.Com and FEARnet), Edward Douglas (Coming Soon.net), Vic Holtreman (Screenrant.com), Mike Sampson (Joblo.com), George "El Guapo" Roush (Latino Review.com). Erik Davis (Cinematical.com), andDevin Faraci (CHUD.com). Passes to the annual, highly anticipated "From Dusk til Con" party will be given out to a few lucky attendees, and one attendee will win a pass good for one year of free movies at any AMC Theatres location. Room 32AB
3:15-4:15 Marvel: Mondo Marvel
It's the panel about all things Marvel! We've got top talent on hand to talk about all of your favorite heroes and villains as well as make a few surprise announcements! Panelists include Jeph Loeb (Hulk), Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers), Marvel's talent liaison C. B. Cebulski, Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning (The Thanos Imperative), Jim McCann (Hawkeye & Mockingbird), senior editor Mark Paniccia, and more as they take on all questions! Room 6DE
3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Keith Knight— Keith Knight's reputation as a rabble-rousing hellion is in serious jeopardy with his first stint as a special guest at Comic-Con. The Harvey award–winning cartoonist and MADmagazine contributor will spill con secrets, show strips, and give out free stuff in celebration of his first collection of daily comic strips: The Knight Life: Chivalry Ain't Dead. Calvin Reid of Publisher's Weeklymoderates. Room 3
3:30-4:30 The Pitching Hour— Jermaine Turner (director, Disney/ABC Cable Networks Group), Derek Hoffman (Donner Company, X-men), Carina Schulze (Chatrone), Paula Gould (PEG PR), and moderator Dan Evans (Nickelodeon exec, Robot & Monster) take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining agents, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical example and humorous stories, the process that creators should adopt to make their way into the Hollywood creative battleground. Knowing that each project is unique, there will be a Q&A to allow the audience to really hone in on the solutions to obstacles they may encounter. Also on hand will be Warren Zeger (entertainment lawyer) to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood! Room 4
3:30-4:30 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II Exclusive Live demo
LucasArts's executive producer Haden Blackman presents a thrilling look at the sequel to the fastest-selling Star Wars game of all time. Blackman will share the latest scoop on Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II and show attendees how to use the Force at a devastating level never seen before. Room 6BCF
3:30-4:30 Assassin's Creed: Behind and Beyond the Brotherhood
Key members of the development team from Ubisoft Montreal discuss the next iteration of the critically acclaimed, multi-million-unit-selling franchise Assassin's Creed Brotherhood. Learn about the new Multiplayer mode, a first for Assassin's Creed, and get a preview of new multiplayer characters as they are revealed exclusively at this panel! Go behind the scenes with an in-depth look at the story and art of the Brotherhood and the return of Ezio, now a legendary Master Assassin, as he journeys into Italy's greatest city, Rome, to strike at the heart of the enemy. The session will also go beyond the Brotherhood to discuss the Assassin's Creed universe as a multimedia entertainment experience. Room 7AB
3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Howard Cruse— Comic-Con special guest Howard Cruse, author of the newly reissued Stuck Rubber Baby, the creator of Barefootz and Wendel, and the founding editor of Gay Comix, is interviewed by author Blake Bell, who profiled Howard's husband Ed Sedarbaum for Bell's 2002 book I Have to Live with This Guy! Questions from audience members will be welcome. Room 8
3:30-4:30 USA Network's Psych— They're back! Always an unpredictable and hilarious event with the creative team behind the most-watched comedy series on cable TV! Enjoy some face-time with series starsJames Roday (Shawn Spencer), Dulé Hill (Burton "Gus" Guster), Maggie Lawson (Juliet O'Hara), Tim Omundson (Carlton Lassiter), Kirsten Nelson (Chief Karen Vick), and Corbin Bernsen (Henry Spencer). Joining the cast will be Steve Franks (creator and executive producer), Kelly Kulchak (executive producer), and Chris Henze (executive producer), moderated by Psych's resident funnyman Andy Berman (co-executive producer, ex-actor, and longtime writer). The team will provide an all-access pass to USA's hit series, which launches its 5th season this summer. The stars and producers will share Season 5 secrets and stories from the set and answer questions about the show's development and production process. Expect special video presentations created exclusively for Comic-Con, never-before-seen outtakes, and a Season 5 exclusive preview. Two lucky audience members will find fame and fortune again this year when they win the honor of having a guest character named after them in a Season 5 episode! There will be exclusive surprise giveaways, including limited-run Comic-Con T-shirts designed by the creative team behind Psych! Ballroom 20
3:30-4:30 Zenescope Presents: Charmed Comics— The Charmed Ones are back, and the creative minds bringing them from television screen to comic book pages are here to share their magic. Writers Paul Ruditis(Charmed novelist) and Raven Gregory (Zenescope's Wonderland, The Waking) discuss how they have taken on the task of translating the ultra-popular TV show into a comic book series. Paul and Raven will answer your questions, raffle off some prizes. and maybe reveal a surprise or two. Room 24ABC
3:30-4:30 Spotlight on James Sturm— Comic-Con special guest James Sturm has created award-winning graphic novels for early readers (Adventures in Cartooning), young adults (Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow, Fantastic Four: Unstable Molecules), and grownups (The Golem's Mighty Swing, Market Day) and co-founded the country's finest cartooning school (The Center for Cartoon Studies). Sturm will be speaking about his process and art with Tom Spurgeon of The Comics Reporter (comicsreporter.com). Room 26AB
3:30-4:30 Andrew Pepoy's Professional Networking Seminar— Get set for a weekend of pressing the flesh and selling yourself with this popular Comic-Con seminar! Being talented isn't enough; getting work and continuing to work in the comic book and comic strip publishing worlds often means knowing the right people as well! Eisner-winning and Hugo-nominated inker and writer/artist Andrew Pepoy (Fables, The Simpsons, Simone & Ajax), with over 20 years in the business, brings back his popular seminar to help teach you how to get out there and use Comic-Con to its fullest networking potential. Take advantage of this first-day slot to put some of Andrew's good advice to work over the remaining Comic-Con days! Room 30CDE
3:30-4:30 Entertainment Weekly: The Visionaries— A discussion with geek gods J. J. Abrams (Star Trek) and Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) on the future of pop culture. EW presents an in-depth conversation with these two creative geniuses about how technology, gaming, and global culture are reshaping how we tell and consume stories on television, film and the web. Plus: Is the superhero movie waning, or is it on the cusp of reinvention? And what do they think the pop culture universe will look like a decade from now? Moderated by Jeff "Doc" Jensen. Hall H
4:00-5:00 Robert Kirkman— He examines survival among The Walking Dead. He makes superheroes relatable in Invincible. He made lycanthropy dramatic in The Astounding Wolf-Man. Join Image Comics for an in-depth discussion and Q&A with writing juggernaut Robert Kirkman. Moderated by Sina Grace. Room 5AB
4:00-5:00 From Screen to Comics— An in-depth look at what it takes to turn big-screen action into 32 pages. Talented creators from across the spectrum, including Max Brooks, Nancy Collins, Peter David, Tony Lee, and more, look behind the scenes at some of the biggest properties to come to comics, such as True Blood,Doctor Who, The A-Team, Transformers, and Star Trek. Room 9
4:00-5:00 Twisting Genres— Fantastic fiction authors talk about pushing the envelope on genre, not confining it to one definition. Participants include China Miéville (Kraken), Justin Cronin (The Passage), Naomi Novik(Tongues of Serpents), Daryl Gregory (The Devil's Alphabet), Jeffrey J. Mariotte (Cold Black Hearts), Robert Masello (Blood And Ice), Keith Thompson (The Leviathan trilogy), and Scott Westerfeld (The Leviathantrilogy). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 25ABC
4:00-5:00 Masquerade 101— This overview of fan convention costume competitions includes various genres of costumes, glimpses behind the scenes, a brief history of masquerades, how contests differ from one type of convention to another, an explanation of judging processes, and fabrication and stage presentation tips for taking your costume creation from beginning concept to stage-ready spectacle. Presented by Comic-Con Masquerade director for the past 19 years Martin Jaquish and award-winning convention costumers Allan Lavigne and Jeff Dullum. Room 32AB
4:30-5:30 The Best and Worst of Manga 2010— It's been a wild year for manga, with new publishers springing up while old ones fade away, and sometimes it seems like the one constant in life is that One Piecewill go on forever. Join our five panelists—Deb Aoki (manga.about.com), Jason Thompson (Manga: The Complete Guide), Christopher Butcher (comics.212.net), Tom Spurgeon (comicsreporter.com), and Kai-Ming Cha (Publishers Weekly) -- as they talk about the best and worst manga of the last year, the manga they want to see translated, and the most anticipated upcoming releases. Room 3
4:30-5:30 Digital Comics Now!— Digital comics are happening right now. A panel of the best and brightest in the new wave of digital comics engage in a wide-ranging discussion of everything from comics on the iPad and iPhone to digital comics on the web and day-and-date-releases. This is your one-stop panel for all the latest digital comics news! Panelists include David Steinberger (CEO of comiXology), Micah Baldwin (CEO of Graphic.ly), Michael Murphey (CEO of iVerse), and Wade Slitkin (CEO of Panelfly). Moderated by Chip Mosher (marketing director, BOOM! Studios). Room 4
4:30-5:30 DC Comics' 75th Anniversary— 75 years ago Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson started a comic book company (National Allied Publications) that pioneered the use of new material (as opposed to comic strip reprints) in its books. In 1938, Action Comics #1, featuring Superman, came along, and the rest—as they say—is history. And what a history it is! DC Comics celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Moderator Paul Levitz(writer, editor, and former president and publisher of DC) starts the Comic-Con celebration with panelists Dan DiDio and Jim Lee (co-publishers, DC Comics), Geoff Johns (chief creative officer), and Comic-Con special guests Jenette Kahn (former president and publisher), Dennis O'Neil (writer/editor, Batman), and comics legend Jerry Robinson (Batman). Room 6DE
4:30-5:30 Transformers Prime— The talent behind Transformers Prime -- executive producers Roberto Orci,Alex Kurtzman, and Jeff Kline -- the new animated series from Hasbro Studios, showcase exclusive footage and character reveals followed by a Q&A session. This original series will premiere in 2010 on the new television network The Hub. Room 7AB
4:30-5:30 Spotlight on Phil Jimenez— Comic-Con special guest Phil Jimenez (Astonishing X-Men) wants to talk to you about comics. Join him for some one-on-one time, ask him questions, and then bring your own rolodex of answers as he tries to get to the heart of some questions he's been thinking about a lot lately: "What do comic readers love about comics, and more importantly, why? What do they hate about reading them? And what would they change?" Room 8
4:30-6:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Zander Cannon— Learn the process of creating independent comics from Zander Cannon, who has been working in comics since 1993 and has done both writing and art duties on comics about knights, robots, spacemen, cops, superheroes, ghosts, and mythical creatures. Room 18
4:30-5:30 Behind the Music: Composing for Sci-Fi, Horror, and Fantasy Film & TV— Award-winning composers Michael Giacchino (Lost), Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman (Heroes), Nathan Barr (True Blood),Jim Dooley (Pushing Daisies), John Ottman (Superman Returns), and Jeremy Zuckerman (Avatar: The Last Airbender) have all composed for Comic-Con's fan-favorite series and are here to share a behind-the-scenes perspective on creating music for television and film. Together they will discuss their respective projects and how they got their big break into the music composing industry. Q&A following the panel plus exclusive giveaways for attendees. Moderated by BMI executive Anne Cecere, director of film/television relations.Room 24ABC
4:30-5:30 Graphic Novels 101— Graphic novels are now considered mainstream, so why aren't they already on your library branch's shelves? Jill Patterson (La Habra, CA Branch Library), Merideth Jenson-Benjamin(Glendale, AZ Public Library), Kearsten LaBrozzi (Glendale, AZ Public Library), and Hillary W. Chang(McCully-Moiliili, HI Public Library) discuss ways to create and maintain a library Graphic Novel Collection.Room 26AB
4:30-5:30 Writing Workshop with James Hudnall— Comics writer James D. Hudnall (Espers, The Psycho) explains the fundamentals of writing effective fiction and characters. James details the core principals you will need in order to write strong, meaningful stories, including how to make your ideas work to their best effect, how to make a character believable, and how to make the reader care. Find out some of the most important things a writer can learn in just one hour's time. Room 30CDE
4:45-5:45 Capcom 2010 and Beyond!
See the latest trailers and get the inside scoop on all of Capcom's most highly anticipated games for 2010 and beyond: Marvel Vs. Capcom 3, Sengoku Basara, Okamiden, Bionic Commando Rearmed 2, Ghost Trick, Dead Rising 2, and more. On top of all that, hear details on an exciting new game announcement by Capcom legend Keiji Inafune, the father of Mega Man! Room 6BCF
4:45-5:45 Our Heroes Have More Fun: the Anti-Heroes of Showtime
The 21st century anti-hero has become one of the driving forces in recent pop culture. When it comes to the television anti-hero, Showtime has the winning formula. Hear firsthand from the showrunners, creators, and actors who have helped define this phenomenon. Dexter's Michael C. Hall and showrunner Chip Johannessen (24) delve into the phenomenon of Dexter Morgan, the serial killer you can't help rooting for;David Duchovny and Tom Kapinos of Californication discuss why Hank Moody is the "bad boy" we love despite his obvious shortcomings; and Mary-Louise Parker and Jenji Kohanof Weeds interpret pot-dealing soccer mom Nancy Botwin's moral decisions, as the line between right and wrong is not always as simple as black or white. Plus: Nurse Jackie—despite a little pill-popping along the way—is a smart no-nonsense nurse, who if you're ever taken to the hospital, you had better hope she's the first person you see. With heroes like these, who needs villains? Breaking the occasional promise, law, or commandment is all in a day's work, and one thing's for sure - Showtime heroes never let doing the right thing get in the way of having a good time.Ballroom 20
4:45-5:45 Lionsgate: The Expendables
Prepare to have your ass kicked by The Expendables, the biggest action movie this summer! Lionsgate presents exclusive scenes and the inside scoop on every punch, kick, and bloodied lip from the most iconic cast of heroes and villains ever assembled, including the director, writer, and star Sylvester Stallone (Rambo), along with Dolph Lundgren (Universal Soldier), Steve Austin (The Condemned), Randy Couture (Scorpion King: Rise of the Warrior), and Terry Crews (Gamer). Hall H
5:00-6:00 SFX presents The British Invasion— Five top UK writers from the worlds of TV, comics, books, and movies discuss what makes modern British SF unique. Dan Abnett (Ultramarines), China Miéville (Perdido Street Station), Paul Cornell (Doctor Who), Kieron Gillen (Thor), Pat Mills (2000 AD), and Toby Whithouse(BBC's Being Human creator) talk to SFX magazine's Dave Bradley in this panel and Q&A session.Room 5AB
5:00-6:00 Look Around You— As their BAFTA-nominated show comes to BBC DVD, creators/stars Robert Popper (Peep Show, Hot Fuzz) and Peter Serafinowicz (Couples Retreat, Shaun of the Dead) are on stage to take questions from the fans on the nonsensical wonders of science and the series of gloriously deadpan experiments as presented by Jack Morgan (Popper) and Peter Packard (Serafinowicz). Matt Groening calls it "one of the funniest shows I've ever seen." Room 6A
5:00-6:00 ComicBase User Group Meeting— See a presentation of the newest features in ComicBase 15 with ComicBase creator Peter Bickford. This is the perfect place to get all the answers you need about the world's premiere software for managing your comic book collection. Room 9
5:00-6:00 Adult Swim: Childrens Hospital— Check out the Childrens Hospital panel and hear from the show's creative team led by Rob Corddry (Hot Tub Time Machine, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart) and Jon Stern(producer of The Ten and Scotland, PA). They will be joined by members of their ensemble cast of comedic heavyweights, including Lake Bell (How to Make It in America, It's Complicated), Erinn Hayes (Parenthood,Worst Week), and Rob Huebel (I Love You Man, Human Giant). Childrens Hospital explores the emotional struggles and sexual politics of a group of doctors charged with healthy libidos. Their dedication to their personal lives is relentless, interrupted only by the occasional need to treat sick children. Room 25ABC
5:00-6:00 The 5th Annual Comics Podcasting Panel!— Five years ago, the comics podcasting stars came together on one panel for the first time in San Diego, and now they're back to discuss comics, podcasting, and how the comic book industry has changed since that first panel. Podcasters appearing on the panel includeJohn Siuntres (Word Balloon), Josh Flanagan (iFanboy), Jimmy Aquino (Comic News Insider), Brian "Pants" Christman (Comic Geek Speak), Bob Bretall (The Comic Book Page), and Cameron Hatheway(Cammy's Comic Corner). Don't miss your chance to see all your favorite podcasters on one panel!Room 32AB
5:30-6:30 Manga: Lost in Translation— The manga market has taken a big slump, and when money is tight, the freelancers are the first to feel the pinch. Long-time professional freelance translators, editors, and specialists in manga, anime, and related fields gather to answer questions about the work, life as a pro, and how they're managing in the translated-entertainment industry. Panelists William Flanagan (Kobato), Jonathan Tarbox (Fist of the North Star), Jason Thompson (King of RPGs), Shaenon Garrity (Skin Horse), Stephen Paul(Moyasimon), Mark Simmons (Mobile Suit Gundam Series) and Jake Forbes (Return to Labyrinth) will offer industry stories and Q&A. Room 3
5:30-6:30 Indie Comics Marketing 101— Need tips on how to market your comic? This is the panel for you! Some of the best and brightest in comics today present a roundtable discussion, revealing all the secrets of success in marketing your comics. Panelists include Sam Humphries (writer, Fraggle Rock and CBGB, creator of MySpace Comic Books), Laura Hudson (editor-in-chief, Comics Alliance), Ben McCool (writer, Choker, Superman, Memoir, JLU), and Chip Mosher (marketing director, BOOM! Studios). Room 4
5:30-6:30 Spotlight on Ivan Reis— Comic-Con special guest Ivan Reis (Blackest Night, Green Lantern, Brightest Day) has established a name and a reputation as one of the most popular and prolific superhero artists in modern day comics. Join him and his friends Eddie Berganza (DC senior editor) and Joe Prado (artist on Brightest Day) as they talk about Ivan's career and how he made it to the top. Room 7AB
5:30-6:30 Geek Girls Exist— Really? Kristin Rielly (Geek Girls Network) leads a discussion about growing up geek, turning passions into careers, and who shot first. Representing the many awesome aspects of the geek culture, panelists Morgan Romine (The Frag Dolls), Bonnie Burton (The Star Wars Craft Book), Marian Call(singer/songwriter), Sarah Kuhn (One Con Glory), Jill Pantozzi (Has Boobs Reads Comics blog), Veronica Belmont (Qore), Kari Byron (MythBusters), and Kiala Kazebee (GeekWeek.com) school you on what it means to be a real geeky girl and even make you LOL IRL. Room 8
5:30-6:30 Comics Academy and the Death of Captain America— Jeffrey Kahan (University of La Verne; author, Caped Crusaders 101) provide an example lesson plan and display how to use comic books in the classroom. David Rojas (founder of Comics Academy) lectures on "The Death of Captain America" and how to relate this story in the classroom and what it means for the future of comic book publishing. The Comics Academy seeks to foster an appreciation of comic books and graphic novels in academia; it promotes using comic books to spark investigation into academic subject areas and to teach abstract concepts in K-12 education. Room 24ABC
5:30-6:30 Acme Archives Ltd— This presentation focuses on the creative process used in producing limited-edition entertainment-based art and features a live performance from renowned Star Wars artist Christian Waggoner. He will be painting on stage while a panel of Acme representatives and Acme artists discuss limited-edition art and its creation. The entire procedure will be outlined, including finding new artists, discussing concepts, creating rough ideas, getting studio approvals, receiving finished art, preparing art for printing, and, ultimately, releasing the print on the Acme website. Questions will be taken throughout the program. Room 26AB
5:30-6:30 Creating the New Mythology— Top comic creators Peter David (Incredible Hulk, X-Factor) andMarc Guggenheim (Wolverine, Resurrection) reveal the ins and outs of working within creative teams—and how those relationships lead to the creation of today's modern myths and what it means to be working in mythology. Moderated by
5:45-6:45 Marvel: What's Next: Welcome to the Digital House of Ideas— Get the inside scoop on the all-new, all-improved, all-awesome Marvel.com, Marvel Digital Comics, and Marvel Motion Comics. With the launch of the groundbreaking Marvel Comics app in the iTunes App Store, this has been a historic year for theDigital House of Ideas. Now, find out what's next! Meet fellow fans of Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited and find out which of the hundreds of completed series in the service everyone's talking about. Plus, get caught up on Marvel.com's free streaming animated shows, how to "Create Your Own Comic" and "Super Hero" original video productions, and the Marvel Audience Network, including our very own social network. Join members of the Marvel Digital Media Group for all the digital dynamite! Room 6DE
6:00-7:00 Abusing the Sci of Sci-Fi— Ever watched a science fiction movie and groaned when the science is spun, folded, and mutilated? Sure, outrageous science is fun, but so is making fun of it. Astronomer and Discovermagazine.com blogger Phil Plait moderates this panel of sci-fi movers and shakers as they pick their favorite moments in good and bad TV and movie science. Panelists include Jaime Paglia (Eureka), Zack Stentz (Fringe, Thor), Bill Prady (The Big Bang Theory), Kevin Grazier (NASA scientist and Eureka advisor), and Sean Carroll (physicist and Discovermagazine.com blogger). Room 5AB
6:00-7:00 Halo: Reach
Bungie hosts this discussion around the biggest game of 2010, including an in-person look at the campaign mode and a debut of some exciting Halo: Reach news. Room 6BCF
6:00-7:00 Archaia: the Black Label Panel— The new Archaia Black Label specializes in co-developing intellectual properties with prestigious partners who are seeking to realize their ideas through the use of Archaia's resources. Panelists show exclusive preview images and discuss the first of the Archaia Black Label titles, including Days Missing: Kestus, with Roddenberry Productions' Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth, writer Phil Hester (Days Missing) and artist David Marquez (Syndrome); Moon Lake with creator Dan Fogler(Fanboys, Balls of Fury), writer R. H. Stavis (Demons of Mercy), and artist Robbi Rodriguez (Hazed); andSyndrome with Fantasy Prone's Blake Leibel (United Free Worlds), writers Daniel Quantz (Marvel Age: Spider-Man) and R. J. Ryan (Marvel Studios), and artist David Marquez. Room 9
6:00-7:00 Showtime's Dexter
What's next for America's Favorite Serial Killer? If the dramatic season finale left you in an, OMG-what-just-happened frenzy, you don't want to miss this killer panel! You'll see the exclusive world premiere of the new season's trailer, then moderator Ralph Garman (KROQ entertainment reporter) presides over a revealing interview and Q&A session with the stars and executive producers of Dexter. Featured panelists includeMichael C. Hall (series star/executive producer), Jennifer Carpenter (Deb), Desmond Harrington (Quinn), and executive producers John Goldwyn, Sara Colleton, Chip Johannessen (24), and Manny Coto (Star Trek: Enterprise). The new season premieres September 26, at 9:00 pm ET/PT only on Showtime. Ballroom 20
6:00-7:00 FUNimation Entertainment— Representatives from FUNimation Entertainment, the leader in Japanese anime in North America, are on hand to talk about all the hot items and news coming up this year. Stop by to check out some of their latest products, see some trailers, and ask FUNimation folks any question you would like. Room 25ABC
6:00-7:00 Writing Queer: Creating and Writing LGBT Characters— Creating genuine and well-rounded LGBT characters is a challenge for writers, as they must give voice to a population whose stories have been kept hidden for so long. How do writers, both queer and straight, as well as mainstream and independent, create narratives that reflect the diversity and humanity of LGBT individuals, as well as the obstacles they face? Moderator Justin Hall (Glamazonia, Prism Comics' talent chair) leads a spirited conversation with some of the best writers working in comics today: Paige Braddock (Jane's World), Howard Cruse (Stuck Rubber Baby),Gilbert Hernandez (Love and Rockets), Greg Rucka (Detective Comics), Gail Simone (Wonder Woman), andJudd Winick (Pedro and Me). Room 32AB
6:00-7:00 Universal: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Genre-bending filmmaker Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz), graphic novel author Bryan Lee O'Malley, and the cast of Universal Pictures' Scott Pilgrim vs. the World provide a sneak peek of summer 2010's epic of epic epicness. Joining Wright will be our hero, Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera of Superbad); Scott's two current girlfriends, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead of The Thing) and Knives Chau (Ellen Wong of Unnatural History); his band, SEX BOB-OMB: Kim Pine (Alison Pill of Milk) and Stephen Stills (Mark Webber of Broken Flowers); SEX BOB-OMB super-fan Young Neil (Johnny Simmons of Jennifer's Body); Scott's awesome roommate, Wallace Wells (Kieran Culkin of Igby Goes Down); and four of Ramona's seven evil exes: Matthew Patel (Satya Bhabha of Fair Game), Todd Ingram (Brandon Routh of Superman Returns), Gideon Graves (Jason Schwartzman of Funny People) and Roxy Richter (Mae Whitman of Parenthood); plus Scott's younger sister, Stacey Pilgrim (Anna Kendrick of Up in the Air), and the obnoxious Julie Powers (Aubrey Plaza of Parks and Recreation). Q&A to follow. Hall H
6:15-7:15 Vertigo: The New Classics— Over the years the Vertigo imprint has produced smart, shocking, and critically acclaimed series such as The Sandman, Preacher, Y: The Last Man, Hellblazer, and Fables, to name a few. Now, Vertigo's latest ongoing series are poised to join those legendary ranks with The Unwritten,American Vampire, Sweet Tooth, and iZombie. Get a peek at these future classics with your host, senior VP/executive editor Karen Berger, plus Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Peter Gross (The Unwritten), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth), Chris Roberson (iZombie), Scott Snyder (American Vampire), and others. Room 6A
6:30-7:30 Bandai Entertainment: 2010 and Beyond— Bandai Entertainment president Ken Iyadomi, marketing director Robert Napton, and marketing associate Loy Fruel discuss releases such as The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya, Zeta Gundam Movies, Gurren Lagann, Lucky Star manga, and many more. Trailers, Q&A, and free stuff! Room 3
6:30-7:30 From the Computer Screen to the Silver Screen— Learn how to build online audiences for your independent comic, film, and TV properties! With the spectacular success of indie projects like Sanctuary andRiese, independent producers are starting to use the web to break into mainstream media on their own terms. But how do you leverage that medium to turn your story into the property that all the studios want to acquire? It all comes down to understanding your audience. Social networking experts Matt Toner and Jessica Leigh Clark-Bojin (Zeros 2 Heroes Media), content creator Kaleena Kiff (Riese the Series), private investor Keith Turner (Meridian Capital), and digital distributor Jonathan Ford (Content Film) reveal some of the tricks of the trade that will help you get a leg up in making your web series a mainstream success. Room 4
6:30-7:30 Origins and Evolutions of a Video Game Super Hero— Sucker Punch Productions, the developer behind the critically acclaimed PS3 summer blockbuster inFamous, takes you behind the scenes in the making and evolution of superhero Cole MacGrath. Unlike most superheroes, Cole and the inFamous universe were designed from the ground up as a video game, rather than as a scripted linear book or show. Key members of the Sucker Punch team discuss how this video-game-first approach affects every aspects of the creative process -- including character designs, super powers, architecture, morality, and the narrative structure. Additionally, attendees will get a first look at the 2D graphic cut scenes from inFamous 2, as well as have an opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A. Room 7AB
6:30-7:30 Still More Dirty Secrets of the Video Game Industry— Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the locked doors of the video game industry? Would you like to break into that industry? Is there anyone in the biz you can go to for help and straight answers? If you said yes to the first two questions, this program can help with the third! Industry veteran Alex Jimenez (Darkstalkers, Enigma) reveals the inner secrets of the game industry and answers your questions on cracking into this tough yet rewarding field. Whether your interest is art, programming, or design, he has the answers you're looking for and all the dirty secrets you need to know! Room 8
6:30-7:30 Shocker Toys: From Print to Plastic— Geoff Beckett and Lance Buttiglieri discuss the latest plans from Shocker Toys, plus how they go from comic to 2D design to 3D print-out to sample injection to the final Indie Spotlight figures. New series and licenses will be announced and future toylines will be laid out along with a Q&A and prize giveaways. Joining them will be John Vegher from 3D Modeler, Tony Robles from Tonyz Customs, and a few comic creators to talk about going from print to plastic with their characters. Room 24ABC
6:30-7:30 Magic: The Gathering Panel— On the heels of Magic's most successful year in its 17-year history, some of the game's top creators share details on upcoming products as well as answer your questions. The panel, moderated by Mark Rosewater (head Magic designer), includes Aaron Forsythe (director, Magic R&D), Brian Tinsman (lead designer, Rise of the Eldrazi), Richard Whitters (lead magic concept artist), and others. Room 26AB
6:30-7:30 Adventures in Voice Acting Workshop— Back by popular demand, this one-hour class about voice acting covers practical dubbing techniques, important issues such as studio protocol, and what to expect at your first audition. 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. You'll also get some inside information on how to break in and what the industry is really like. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans and aspiring voice actors to interact with some of the most accomplished members of the industry. Celebrity panelists and surprise guests will attend. Room 30CDE
6:45-7:45 Robotech: The First Quarter Century— Robotech creative director Tommy Yune and Robotechscreenwriter Steve Yun cover the history of the television series that introduced a generation to anime. They also pay tribute to the late Carl Macek, the original producer of Robotech, who started this whole phenomenon.Room 6DE
Nighttime Programs
7:00-8:00 The Antidote Trust's Indie Comics How To— Do you make comics? Want to make comics? Going the indie route? Well, The Antidote Trust has been doing it separately and collectively for a few years now, and they'd like to tell you how they do things. Bring your questions! The Antidote Trust will tell you why they make comics, particularly as indies in an industry that is branching out more and more every day. Featuring Robert Roach (The Roach), Dale Wilson (Magnificent Creatures), Richard Hamilton (Return of the Super Pimps),Vincent S. Moore (Omnium Gatherum), and Andre Owens (Force Galaxia) and moderated by Geoffrey Thorne (Prodigal). Room 5AB
7:00-8:00 Comics on Comics Live!— ComicsonComics.com, the innovative web series that pits comedians against comic book creators in geek debates, comes to the San Diego Comic-Con with a special live show! Host Jonathan London (Geekscape.net) and comedian Ralph Garman (Family Guy) match wits with some surprising guests from the worlds of comic books and comedy! Room 9
7:15-8:15 A New Generation of Spike & Mike— Spike and Mike's Festival of Animation is blasting back to Comic-Con with two mind-spinning shows! First up this year is the new genre show, A New Generation of Spike and Mike Animation, that premiered in La Jolla with rave reviews: Loft Cinema wrote "Spike and Mike's New Generation Animation Festival could easily be one of the best things to ever happen to modern animation." Come join the fun and meet Spike! Room 6BCF
7:30-8:30 Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog— Sing along with your fellow fans at this screening of the original three acts of Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, hosted by the California Browncoats, complete with lyrics books and call backs! Dr. Horrible stars Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Nathan Fillion (Castle, Firefly) and Felicia Day (The Guild) and was written by Joss Whedon (Serenity), Jed Whedon (Dollhouse), Zack Whedon (Fringe), and Maurissa Tancharoen (Dollhouse). Room 6A
7:30-9:30 First Look! Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics
Behind the amazing tales of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Watchmen is the equally impressive story of the challenges, creativity and triumphs of the company that brought those characters to life. Warner Home Video and DC Entertainment present a first look at the new documentary Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics, a compelling insider's tale and a 75th anniversary celebration as seen through the inkwells of those who created and lived it, balanced with insights from key historians and filled with interviews, archival footage, and a dazzling parade of those forever riveting and splashy DC covers. Included in the premiere event is a panel of distinguished representatives of DC's storied history. Produced by the Academy Award–nominated team behind Spellbound, this documentary is narrated by Ryan Reynolds (Green Lantern) and will be distributed by Warner Home Video in November 2010. Room 7AB
7:30-8:30 Transcending Trauma: From the Birth of Batman to the Rise of the Red Hood— Traumatic experiences are a common element in the origins of many comic book characters, but do these experiences alone explain the characters' paths to heroism or villainy? What drove Batman to become a hero instead of a "nemesis"? Was Robin destined to become a "hood"? Do characters such as the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, and Punisher meet criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Returning to Comic-Con after their "Unlocking Arkham" panel last year, the physicians of Broadcast Thought explore how trauma has affected these and other characters. Examine comic book depictions of responses to trauma, evaluate their accuracy, and discover their real world correlates. Learn as H. Eric Bender, M.D., Praveen R. Kambam, M.D., and Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D.use their backgrounds in child/adolescent, adult, and forensic psychiatry to discuss responses to traumatic experiences and apply theories of attachment, development, and resiliency to the formation of the hero. Bring your questions and join the doctors as they lend their unique expertise to Comic-Con, exploring how comic book characters transcend trauma or descend into villainy! Room 8
7:30-8:30 Penn + Teller:
35 Years of Magic & BS!— Penn Jillette and Teller (Showtime's Penn & Teller: BS!) share insights into their 35-year-long careers with audience Q&A, TV and film clips, and a few tricks.Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
8:00-11:00 BBC America: U.S. Premiere Screenings of Doctor Who and Being Human— Catch the all-new season opener of Being Human, written by Toby Whithouse and starring Russell Tovey, Lenora Crichlow, Aidan Turner and Sinead Keenan and the two-part finale of Doctor Who, written by Steven Moffat and starring Matt Smith and Karen Gillan. Room 6DE
8:00-9:00 GeekRoundTable/Geek-Tastic Live!— Where has GeekRoundTable been for the last 12 months? Find out what they've been up to. Check out the most racially diverse podcast on the net, now in partnership with Geek-tastic.com. Join in on a funny, information-filled discussion and maybe win a prize! Show creator and host Ned Cato Jr., executive producer Jesse C. Lopez, website creator and GRT producer Patrick Roach, and an incredible cast of geeks show you a time so good you'll have to keep it a secret...pinkie swear! Room 9
8:15-9:15 The Sushi Typhoon: The Best in Japanese Genre Movies— Horror, sci-fi, action, and splatter comedy films from Japan have become the most popular new genre in fandom. From the creators of TokyoGore Police, The Machine Girl, Suicide Club, Ichi the Killer, Battlefield Baseball, Meatball Machine, and many others comes The Sushi Typhoon, an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of Japanese genre moviemaking about to hit U.S. shores in partnership with Funimation Entertainment! Director Yoshihiro Nishimura (Tokyo Gore Police), actor Masanori Mimoto (The Ultimate Versus), actress Mika Hijii (Ninja), and producer Yoshinori Chiba (Yatterman) are on hand for a special launch presentation introducing American audiences to the new label, featuring guest Q&A's, trailers for Alien vs. Ninja and Mutant Girls Squad (both screening on Friday night at SDCC), and an exclusive preview of Nishimura's upcoming zombie epic Helldriver, including an exciting first look at footage from the film! Room 5AB
8:15-11:15 Superhero Kung Fu Extravaganza— Author, scripter, comic book writer, editor, and professor Ric Meyers (Inside Kung-Fu) brings you the best in freaky, funny, fantastic film fighting for the 12th year running. As in the past, you'll laugh, gasp, and cheer, and you can also expect some surprise guest stars, rare freebies, and maybe even a world premiere sneak peek or two! Room 6BCF
9:30-11:45 Night of the Living Dead: Reanimated Screening and Panel Discussion— NOTLD: R is a collection of animated and illustrated responses created by nearly 150 international artists/animators and arranged to the original 1968 film's audio track by curator Mike Schneider. Contributing artists John Chesnutand Josh Barnett (claymation and cut-out animation), Jacquelyn Bond (watercolor paintings), Grant Fuhst(mixed-media artwork), Sean Williams (hand-drawn animation), Zina Lahr (toy modification/ experimental animation), Brad Uyeda (stop-motion animation), Anthony Amos (digital animation), and Eric Schock (comic book illustration) meet to screen NOTLD: R (which comes out on DVD July 27), discuss their involvement with the project, and take questions. Moderated by Beth Accomando (KPBS film critic). Giveaways at the screening will include horror-hosted DVDs of NOTLD: R and limited-edition teaser posters. Room 5AB
10:00-12:00 World Premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst— The Frog Brothers return to Comic-Con with holy water balloons ablazin' for the world premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst, the latest high-energy, action-packed adventure in the ongoing franchise. Original cast members Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander present the first-ever screening of the cult classic's third film, in which the lost boys and girls of San Cazador prepare to party under the Blood Moon -- while an alpha vampire conspires to turn these unsuspecting ravers into an army of undead. The only thing that stands between him and the annihilation of the entire human race are the infamous vampire-fighting Frog Brothers. Expect some serious bloodsucker butt kicking. And Warner Bros. is providing the free popcorn! Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
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