The Full Schedule of Panels For Thursday at San Diego Comic-Con 2015

Jill Pantozzi

Published: Jun 25, 2015 04:28 pm

3:00pm

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3rd Annual Musical Anatomy of a Superhero

From the ominous horns of Jaws, to the inspiring theme for Star Wars, music has always been an important supporting character in movies. For the superhero genre, the music reflects these emotions and more. This panel offers a behind the scenes look at the music of today’s biggest superhero film and TV projects with unreleased film clips and never before heard music. Participating composers include Junkie XL (Mad Max: Fury Road, Batman v. Superman), Christophe Beck (Ant-Man), Marco Beltrami(Fantastic Four), Brian Tyler (Avengers: Age of Ultron), Lorne Balfe (Terminator: Genisys), and Blake Neely (Super Girl, Arrow, Flash). Produced by Costa Communications.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

3:00pm

ComicBase/Atomic Avenue User’s Group Meeting

It’s the annual meet-up for users of the world’s #1 program for managing comic collection. ComicBase creator Peter Bickford will be on hand to give a sneak preview of upcoming program features, answer questions, and spill the beans on what’s next for both ComicBase and Atomic Avenue. Get an exclusive look at the new version of ComicBase (whether it’s shipping or not!), find out what’s behind the recent explosion of activity at Atomic Avenue. There’ll also be a prize drawing for some very cool stuff.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 9

3:00pm

Comics Make Kids Smarter: Exploring Data-Driven Success in the Comics Classroom

Research shows that comics and graphic novels are motivating, support struggling readers, enrich the skills of accomplished readers and are a highly effective tool for teaching challenging material in a more efficient way. Educators Meryl Jaffe(CBLDFUsing Graphic Novels in Education; Raising a Reader! How Comics & Graphic Novels Can Help Your Kids Learn to Read), Ronell Whitaker (Dwight D. Eisenhower High School, Blue Island, IL), Eric Kallenborn (Alan B. Shepard High School Palos Heights, IL), and Tracy Edmunds (Reading With Pictures), creator John Green (Teen Boat), and moderator Tom Racine (host of Tall Tale Radio) will explore and explain the research behind the comics in the classroom movement and what it could mean for the future of the medium in the classroom.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Shiley Special Events, San Diego Central Library

3:00pm

Dark Horse Originals: The New Mainstream

Comics literature is the new mainstream, and Dark Horse Originals covers it all, from post-Depression-era America in The New Deal to the return of Gabriel Bá and Fábio Moon withTwo Brothers. Bá and Moon are joined by Matt Kindt (MIND MGMT) andColleen Coover (Bandette) to discuss pushing the boundaries of what comics can accomplish in literature.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 23ABC

3:00pm

Jet Set Nerds

Anastasia Washington (Jet Set Nerds, TheStream.tv), Stephanie Pressman (Geek 360, Fashionably Nerdy), Becky Sanders (Jet Set Nerds), Elle (Your Friend Elle), and Curious Joi (Curious Joi, Icon) help you Jet Set to Nerd Mecca with epic tales and tips on how to become a Jet Set Nerd, moderated by Stedmond Crowder (Action Figure Overload).

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 14A

3:00pm

Making the Leap to Creator-Owned Properties: Tales from the IP Jungle

Moderator John Fleskes (Flesk publications) leads a rousing discussion with Frank Cho(Liberty Meadows, World of Payne, Savage Wolverine),Terry Dodson (Princess Leia, Red One, Uncanny X-Men), Mark Schultz (Storms at Sea, Xenozoic), and Thomas Sniegoski(World of Payne, The Fallen, The Raven’s Child) about the differences between working for major publishers and shepherding through their personal projects. The pros, the cons, the triumphs, the tears! Plus, panelists share the latest news of upcoming projects.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 28DE

3:00pm

Powers: Ordinary Heroes, Extraordinary Possibilites: A Deeper Look at the Hit PlayStation Series

The executive producers/co-creators of the Powers comics, Brian Michael Bendis andMichael Avon Oeming, are joined by showrunner Remi Aubuchon and cast membersSusan Heyward (Det. Pilgrim), and Olesya Rulin (Calista) for a sneak peek at the upcoming Season 1 Blu-ray, and what’s to come in the second season of PlayStation’s hit original series.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 6A

3:00pm

Rewriting History: The Next Chapter of Heavy Metal

Nearly 40 years after it’s American inception, Heavy Metal remains the world’s leading illustrated science fiction and fantasy magazine. Now, “under new management,” the brand moves into new territory in music, film, and traditional comics publishing. Join co-CEO Jeff Krelitz, publisher Kevin Eastman, and a few very special surprise guests, for exclusive announcements on upcoming projects in entertainment and publishing, plans for further expansion, and a strategy to change the game on creator-owned work. This is an essential panel for longtime fans, curious onlookers, and comics creators of every stature, as the company offers exclusive news to Comic-Con attendees to broaden the landscape on original storytelling!

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 7AB

3:00pm

Terry Brooks and The World of Shannara

Del Rey Books published The Sword of Shannara in 1977. Since then, legendary fantasy author Terry Brooks has written more than 25 New York Times bestselling novels. After more than three decades of readers falling in love with Terry Brooks’ world, MTV will bring Shannara to life in a new TV series. Join Terry as he talks about the history ofShannara, his life as a writer, and what’s to come in the future. Moderated by Ali T. Kokmen (Barnes & Noble, Nook Digital).

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Horton Grand Theatre

3:00pm

The Might and Magic of Legacy Effects

The work of Legacy Effects is featured in films including Avengers: Age Of Ultron,Jurassic World and Terminator: Genisys. Meet the studio founders and get a firsthand look into the making of these blockbuster films. You may even get a sneak peek at some of the actual props from the films. Engage in an exciting presentation, Q&A, and maybe even a couple of giveaways.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 32AB

3:00pm

This Week in Marvel: Live!

Marvel’s official weekly flagship podcast comes to Comic-Con for a special episode that may or may not include guests, secrets, news, free stuff, arm wrestling, guitar solos, and more!

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

3:00pm

Transformers: Robots in Disguise

Roll out with the cast and creatives behind Transformers: Robots in Disguise as they share details of the making of the popular animated series and give a sneak peek into the rest of Season 1, now airing on Cartoon Network. Followed by a Q&A.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 5AB

3:00pm

What Do Women Want? Female Gaze in Manga

What do women want to read? While comics in North America has been mostly a “boy” thing, in Japan, manga and anime for women have been a major force in the comics market for many years. From shojo manga to boys love manga to reverse harem “otome” video games and anime filled with delectable guys, these media have been catering to the tastes of female fans in Japan. These stories are reaching readers and inspiring comics creators worldwide more than ever. See what manga publishing prosLeyla Aker (senior vice president, publishing, VIZ Media), JuYoun Lee (editor-in-chief, Yen Press), Lillian Diaz-Pryzbyl (head of comics, Sparkler Monthly), and manga creatorJamie Lynn Lano (The Princess of Tennis, Denkiki) have to say about “female gaze” in manga, why it sells, and why it matters. They’ll also share their picks for your next must-read manga that’ll make you swoon. Moderated by Deb Aoki (Publishers Weekly, Manga Comics Manga)

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 29AB

3:00pm

Worldbuilding

Worlds are important; but how are they made? Top authors Peter Clines (The Fold),Richard Kadrey (Killing Pretty), Sabaa Tahir (An Ember in the Ashes), Josephine Angelini(The Wordwalker Trilogy), Brandon Mull (Five Kingdoms series), and Virginia Boecker( The Witch Hunter) along with moderator Charlie Jane Anders (All the Birds in the Sky) describe how they set the stage for their stories and create a living universe for their characters.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 25ABC

3:00pm

Writing 101: What to Think About Before You Start Writing

Multiple award-winning writer and recipient of the Eisner Hall of Fame award Marv Wolfman uses his 47 years of writing professionally to bring his writer’s beginning class back to San Diego where it began. Marv will talk about what to think about before you start writing-how to approach coming up with your plot, story, and theme, how to put them together, and-the question most newbies ask-how to create characters. And best of all there will be plenty of time for specific questions.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Room 30CDE

3:15pm

DC Comics Too Tough Trivia: Catwoman, Joker, and Robin 75th Anniversary Edition

To celebrate the Boy Wonder’s, the Clown Prince of Crime’s, and the Feline Fatale’s 75th anniversary, join this panel for some trivia that will test even the hardest of hardcore DC fans’ knowledge! Joining the party will be some of DC’s senior editorial team as they try to stop fans from winning some amazing prizes!

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:15pm – 4:15pm
Room 6DE

3:30pm

Animated Effects in Live Action

When the word animation is used, we think of cartoons. However, the line between live action and animation is becoming blurred due to technological advances. Industry professionals who create some of the most memorable animated visual effects will have a lively discussion on how they blend animation with live action seamlessly. They include David Derks (ASIFA Hollywood), and Adam Howard (Birdman, Pee Wee’s Big Holiday).

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Room 26AB

3:30pm

Robert Kirkman’s Skybound Entertainment Celebrates Five Years

Join panel host Geoff Keighley for a discussion with Skybound Entertainment’s Robert Kirkman and David Alpert (The Walking Dead franchise, Outcast) as they celebrate the company’s fifth anniversary. Kirkman and Alpert will explore Skybound’s various projects that include properties such as The Walking Dead, Outcast, and the company’s first feature film, AIR, starring Norman Reedus and Djimon Hounsou. The producing duo will also dive into the bustling world of Skybound Interactive, discussing the critically acclaimed Telltale’s The Walking Dead with Telltale CEO Kevin Bruner, and Skybound’s upcoming first-person-shooter game, Overkill’s The Walking Dead, produced by Starbreeze Studios. Expect exclusive news, special guests, and a first look at the full-length feature trailer for AIR.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Room 6BCF

3:30pm

Sergio & Mark Show

The men who bring you Groo the Wanderer show their faces and explain just how and why it is they bring you Groo the Wanderer, as well as other silly comics. It’s the award-winning duo of Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier, accompanied by the equally heralded Stan Sakai (creator of Usagi Yojimbo), and coloring whiz Tom Luth (if he can get away); holding court, answering your questions, and doing what they do best, which obviously is not writing little blurbs like this for the Comic-Con Events Guide.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Room 8

3:30pm

The One and Only IDW Artist Edition

Join Artist’s Editions editor Scott Dunbier as he leads you on a tour of these big and beautiful books! There will be several announcements, a surprise guest or two, and some good old-fashioned art talk.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Room 4

3:30pm

The TV Animation Story Editors/Head Writers Panel

Do you have dreams of writing for kids TV animation? This panel of veteran story editors and head writers will reveal what you need to know to break into the business, and stay in it. Topics include creating appropriate writing samples, landing a first gig, meeting deadlines, and keeping your story editor happy. Moderator Neo Edmund (Red Riding Werewolf Huntress, Kaijudo Clash of the Duel Masters) is joined by panelistsAndrew Robinson (senior writer at Blizzard Entertainment, Kaijudo Clash of the Duel Masters), Jim Krieg (Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Spooksville), Charlotte Fullerton(Ben 10 Omniverse, My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic), Eugene Son (Ultimate Spider-Man,Marvel’s Avengers Assemble), and Craig Miller (Transformers, Curious George).

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Room 24ABC

3:45pm

Sherlock

Steven Moffat (co-creator, executive producer, and writer), Sue Vertue (executive producer) and Rupert Graves (actor, DI Greg Lestrade) discuss the latest adventures of Sherlock Holmes and his long-suffering faithful friend, Dr. John Watson. Sherlock will return to PBS Masterpiece in a forthcoming special.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:45pm – 4:45pm
Ballroom 20

3:45pm

Con Man: The Fan Revolt 13 Years in the Making

Alan Tudyk’s dream show based on his global convention experiences seemed impossible with the compromises Hollywood demanded. Instead he went directly to fans; over 46,000 responded, with a recordbreaking $3.2 million raised on Indiegogo, and Con Man was officially born. With filming wrapped and a Vimeo on-demand release on the horizon, Alan Tudyk, Nathan Fillion, P. J. Haarsma, Mindy Sterling, and others talk Con Man and the crazy ride that made his dream project a reality.

Thursday July 9, 2015 3:45pm – 5:15pm
Hall H

4:00pm

Captain Action’s 2nd Annual Con Custom Contest and Animation Preview

Calling all 1/6th scale customizers! It’s time for the Captain’s 2nd Annual Customizing Contest. As the original superhero action figure, Captain Action is all about customization, change, and the power of imagination. This year’s theme, “Bring on the Bad Guys,” will highlight villainous creations. The panel of judges, along with all the fans in the room, will choose a winner from the six best finalists and award prizes. Also, a sneak peek at the upcoming animated series. Panelists include Marv Wolfman (Teen Titans, Deadshot), J. C. Vaughn (Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide ), Daniel Pickett(Action Figure Insider), Michael Polis (Atomic Toybox), and Michael Crawford (MCW Toys). Moderated by Ed Catto (Captain Action).

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 32AB

4:00pm

CBLDF Podcast Live: Banned Authors Speak Out

Join Jeff Smith (Bone) and Mariko Tamaki (This One Summer) for an in-depth discussion of what it’s like to be the author of a banned book. CBLDF executive director Charles Brownstein hosts this special live podcast celebrating Banned Books Week and examining the stakes of censorship for creators, librarians, and most of all, readers.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

4:00pm

Comedy Central’s Moonbeam City

Prepare to be dazzled; Moonbeam City is back in San Diego with an exclusive Comic-Con sneak peek. Moonbeam City is an absurdist, retro-futuristic ’80s cop extravaganza. The series follows Dazzle Novak (voiced by Rob Lowe), a handsome, idiotic detective who commits more crimes than most criminals. His sexy, tyrannical chief Pizzaz Miller (Elizabeth Banks) won’t get off his back. His obnoxious rival Rad Cunningham (Will Forte) will stop at nothing to destroy him. Dazzle must team up with the city’s only competent police officer, Chrysalis Tate (Kate Mara), to protect their beloved, neon-soaked metropolis. Rob Lowe, Moonbeam City creator Scott Gairdner, and executive producer Tommy Blacha reveal details on Comedy Central’s next big animated series.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

4:00pm

Comic Book Art: Making a Living Doing It

Comics Experience’s Andy Schmidt (Marvel, IDW editor) reveals how to make money as a comic book artist. Learn about maximizing your art potential, pricing your art, merchandizing it, and selling it. Don’t just make money, make a living! Spend an hour with Andy Schmidt, Andy Lanning (Guardians of the Galaxy), Zander Canon (Top 10), and Reilly Brown (God Hates Astronauts, The Manhattan Projects), then go make money with your art.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 30CDE

4:00pm

Delcourt Panel

Guy Delcourt, the largest independent publisher in France (founder of the Delcourt publishing house, owner of Editions Soleil) comes to Comic-Con International with special surprise guests and a huge announcement no international comics fan dare miss.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 28DE

4:00pm

Ghost Asylum

Ever wondered what it is like to go on a real ghost hunt? Join the stars of Destination America’s Ghost Asylum as they discuss the most bloodcurdling paranormal hotspots in America. The team will describe their most intricate traps, including the Wraith Dome and the Prism Catcher. Never-before-seen footage of paranormal activity, exclusive clips, demonstrations, and special prizes will be featured at this event, which is sure to raise the hairs on the back of your neck. Presented by Destination America.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 5AB

4:00pm

I’m Sleeping with the Lights On: Horror and Thriller Authors Discussion

Horror and thriller novels have an amazing way of keeping readers up at night. Whether it is demons and zombies, from the historical settings to the seemingly mundane, authors find bone-chilling ways to make sure the reader keeps turning the pages. Join Del Howison, owner of Dark Delicacy Bookstore, as he chats with distinguished horror and thriller writers J.T. Ellison (What Lies Behind), Kevin P. Keating (The Captive Condition), Matthew Reilly (The Great Zoo of China), Mira Grant(Symbiont), Diana Rowland (Vengeance of the Demon), and Robert Brockway (The Unnoticibles) about what motivates them to scare you.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 25ABC

4:00pm

Nerdstrong: Getting Fit for Cosplay, Geekdom, and Life

Andrew Deutsch (Nerdstrong partner, head coach), Marla Hudnall (Nerdstrong partner, coach), Christy Black (Nerdstrong coach, Healthy Is the New Skinny), Kimi Balcomb (Nerdstrong coach, Golden Lasso Cosplay), Andrew Seely (Nerdstrong coach, gaming director), Mairghread Scott (Nerdstrong member, writer Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Swords of Sorrow), and Mel Caylo (Nerdstrong member, marketing manager at BOOM! Studios) discuss fitness, body image, and confidence in a geek world. Moderated by Blair Herter (Nerdstrong Partner, TV host).

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 14A

4:00pm

Rainbow Rowell in Conversation with Leigh Bardugo

Rainbow Rowell (New York Times bestselling author of Eleanor & Park, Fangirl, andLandline) sits down with Leigh Bardugo (New York Times bestselling author of the Grisha Trilogy) to talk about books, fantasy, “the last three words,” and what Rainbow has planned for this year’s Carry On, her much-awaited return to young adult fiction.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 29AB

4:00pm

Star Trek: They’re Not Really Dead as Long as We Remember Them

The man The Los Angeles Times dubbed “the world’s foremost Trekspert,” Mark A. Altman (Free Enterprise) presides over a celebration of the lives of some of Trek’s most luminous voices whom we lost this year. Spotlighting the careers of the incomparable Leonard Nimoy, Harve Bennett (Star Trek II, III, IV), Maurice Hurley (showrunner, TNGSeasons 1 and 2), Grace Lee Whitney (Yeoman Rand), and Bernie Williams (producer,Generations), along with a look back at the 50th anniversary of Star Trek’s second pilot, “Where No Man Has Gone Before.” Treksperts include Scott Mantz (chief film critic,Access Hollywood), David A. Goodman (producer, Star Trek: Enterprise, authorFederation: The First 150 Years), Edward Gross (legendary Trek journalist, The 50 Year Mission),Ashley E. Miller (Thor, X-Men: First Class), Robert Meyer Burnett (producer,Star Trek: The Next Generation Blu-rays) and Chase Masterson (actress, Deep Space Nine, The Flash).

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 23ABC

4:00pm

The Forgotten Trio: Letterers, Inkers, and Colorists

Comic book industry veterans discuss what it entails to be an inker, letterer and colorist, along with advice for those aspiring to be part of the comic book industry.Joshua Reed (letterer for Aspen Comics, Soulfire, Fathom), Dave Lanphear (veteran letterer for DC Comics/Marvel), Matt Batt Banning (inker for Superman/Wonder Woman, Batman), and professional colorists will be present to partake in an open Q&A session moderated by Jessica Tseang (comic book historian).

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 9

4:00pm

The Nerd in the Classroom: Sci-fi as an Educational Tool

Education’s all-things-nerd networking resource returns to Comic-Con. This year’s edition features cartoonist and high school computer science teacher Gene Yang(American Born Chinese, Boxers and Saints), language-arts teacher Blake Bockholt(Fremont High), and psychologist Patrick O’Connor (Comicspedia, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology). Moderating is Patrick Murphy (Fremont High, Weber State University). Topics include using comics to convey complex information, student-created comics as a narrative, and aligning to national standards while still increasing student engagement. This is a great networking opportunity for professional educators and nerds alike.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Shiley Special Events, San Diego Central Library

4:00pm

VIZ Media

Come party with VIZ Media! And by party, they mean sit in a chair and listen to thrilling tales of upcoming releases and other Earth-shattering announcements from North America’s largest distributor of manga and anime. VIZ Media has brought you thousands of your favorite titles, including huge hits like Naruto, Death Note, Sailor Moon, Ranma 1/2, and Tokyo Ghoul. Warning: Panel may include trivia, prizes, yelling and probably some clapping. Hosted by Urian Brown, Charlene Ingram and VIZ Media staff, with special guests.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Room 7AB

4:15pm

Gears of War: Ultimate Edition: The Art of Improving on an Xbox Classic

Reigniting the passion and fervor of Gears of War fans, Xbox and The Coalition take fans behind the scenes of one of their favorite franchises, reimagined and reloaded for Xbox One. The panel features Rod Fergusson (studio head, The Coalition), one of the most prominent members of the industry, and will discuss not only the visual improvements but also what it takes to modernize an all-time fan favorite that is launching on Xbox One this summer. Also appearing from The Coalition: Peder Skude(senior game designer), Kyle Gaulin (cinematics director), and Ben Huyghe (former pro gamer/QA).

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:15pm – 5:15pm
Room 6A

4:30pm

Funny Pages

Join Ben Blacker (writer, Thunderbolts; The Thrilling Adventure Hour) and Paul F. Tompkins (Comedy Bang Bang; Bojack Horseman) for a brand new conversation: comics on comics; comedians discussing comics, that is. This panel brings together your favorite comedians from TV, film, and animation as they discuss their favorite comics. Don’t miss this brand new panel!

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Horton Grand Theatre

4:30pm

Marvel: Uncanny Inhumans

Terrigenesis is upon us! Editor-in-chief Axel Alonso and writer Charles Soule give the 4-1-1 on Marvel’s Royal Family and the first superhuman race. What does the future have in store for Black Bolt, Queen Medusa, Lockjaw, and the rest of the Inhuman race? Find out here!

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Room 6DE

4:30pm

Max Brooks & Avatar Press Comics

New York Times bestselling author Max Brooks (The Zombie Survival Guide) gives the scoop on new projects and creators joining the industry’s most groundbreaking, risk-taking publisher. Brooks hosts this panel, walking through the frightful world of Avatar Press comics. Want insight from such industry luminaries as Garth Ennis, Alan Moore, and Max Brooks? Want to find out what the next Providence, Caliban, or Extinction Parade will be? Can’t get enough Crossed, Uber, or God Is Dead? Find out what new terrors and travesties this rogue publisher will unleash in the months ahead!

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Room 8

4:30pm

Spotlight on Art Baltazar and Franco Aureliani

Famous cartooning duo Art Baltazar and Franco Aureliani (comic creators of Aw Yeah Comics, Itty Bitty Hellboy, and Tiny Titans) share their creative stories, secrets, and awesomeness of their artistic journey through the comic industry. From the indie comic world to DC Comics to Dark Horse Comics to retail store, these guys have done it all-20 years of overnight success. What are they planning next? Moderated by fellow podcaster John Siuntres (Word Balloon Podcast, Aw Yeah Podcast). Aw. Yeah.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Room 4

4:30pm

The Zone Show: The Jack Kirby Interview

In October of 1984, Ray “3-D” Zone, the “King of 3-D Comic Books,” interviewed comic book legend Jack Kirby on Los Angeles public access TV. Eric Kurland (3-D Space), Randolph Hoppe (The Jack Kirby Museum), and Lawrence Kaufman (National Stereoscopic Association) will be joined by other special guests to discuss the careers of Zone and Kirby and their collaborations, including a rare screening of the entire half-hour 1984 interview; shown publicly for the first time in over 30 years.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Room 26AB

4:30pm

Thunderbirds Are Go

ITV Studios and Pukeko Pictures, in association with Weta Workshop are bringing the U.S. premier of Thunderbirds Are Go exclusively to Comic-Con. Join executive producerRichard Taylor (Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit) and head writer Rob Hoegee (Teen Titans, Generator Rex), to watch an episode and ask your questions of some of the team responsible for creating this beautiful re-imagining of the much-loved classic series that is already entertaining and delighting millions of fans in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, with further international roll out planned for 2015 and 2016

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Room 24ABC

4:30pm

Comic-Con How-To: Art Thieft Law: Prevention, Protection Prosecution

Josh Wattles and Jack Lerne, professor of Law UC Irvine offer a lawyer’s perspective on how to protect your artwork.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:30pm – 6:00pm
Room 2

4:45pm

NASA: Turning Science Fiction into Science Fact

Experience how NASA is turning our sci-fi imaginations into reality in a celebrity moderated discussion featuring NASA scientists and engineers, NASA’s latest visual delicacies, and a downlink from space; featuring the crew of the International Space Station.

Thursday July 9, 2015 4:45pm – 5:45pm
Room 6BCF

5:00pm

Careers in Costuming

The Costume Designers Guild Local 892 discusses costuming as a career and the many different possibilities that exist today. Panelists include Costume Designer, Ivy Thaide,Celia Rogus from FIDM, illustrator and concept artist Gina DeDomenico Flanagan, assistant costume designer, Christine Cover-Ferro, Eddie Marks from Western Costume, IATSE 705 Custom Made field rep Renee Nault, as well as Alan Scott &Shane Mahan from Legacy Effects. The panelists are here to answer your questions about making a career in costuming. Camden Toy (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) will be moderating our panel.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 23ABC

5:00pm

DC Comics Master Class: Art History

Class is in session as some of the greatest artists in the industry take this panel to school with an in-depth look at their creative process. DC Entertainment is proud to spotlight these talented individuals for this exclusive, all-access look at what it’s like drawing for DC Comics and Vertigo.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 30CDE

5:00pm

Fandom Is My Fandom, or We All Live in a Coffeeshop AU

Fandom isn’t just one thing these days, and it never was. But now that fans and their creativity, content, and consumption are something for media companies to understand, PR people to focus on, social media to thrive on, and news organizations to report about, what happens to the “traditional” fan community and the fanboys and fangirls that create their culture and content? Are follow-on works like fanart, vids, and fanfic to be mocked, tracked, supported, and enjoyed within an organic community, or considered a stepping-stone to a creative career? What if the answer is “sometimes one, sometimes all, and sometimes something more?” The panel will look from deep inside popular fandoms, the media companies that work with them, and the sites that host them with Amanda Brennan (community and content associate tumblarian, tumblr), Flourish Klink (Chaotic Good, Inc., Transmedia producer for East Los High), Meredith Levine (Fanthropologist, ZEFR), Aron Levitz (head of business development, Wattpad), Elizabeth Minkel (writer, New Statesman, The Millions), Betsy Rosenblatt (legal committee chair, Organization for Transformative Works), and Jules Wilkinson (founder, SuperWiki) in a panel moderated by Heidi Tandy(founder/essayist, FYeahCopyright).

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 14A

5:00pm

First Look at Crackle’s SuperMansion

Calling all Stoopid Buddy Stoodios fans! Be the first to catch a sneak peek at the new stop-motion animated comedy series SuperMansion. The cast, voiced by Emmy-award winner Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), Seth Green (Family Guy), Jillian Bell(Workaholics), Matthew Senreich, and Zeb Wells (Robot Chicken) discuss the world of superheroes and more. Special surprises may occur.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

5:00pm

geekEd V: The Undiscovered Country: Bringing Geek Back to Higher Education

Come interact with a panel of educators from across the country as they share how they make the most of their geek identities in their campus communities. Brian Arao(University of California, Santa Cruz), Alfred Day (University of California, Berkeley),Michelle Kittel (Rocketship Spark Academy), Patricia Nguyen (UCLA), and Emily Sandoval (University of Southern California) are excited to share their stories of building personal connections with geek students, developing programs that create excitement, fostering inclusive communities, and enhancing the geek college experience. Joining them this year is Liz Krulder (Fresno State) who, as a student, co-developed Fresno State’s first ever comic convention, FresCon. If you are an industry or marketing professional, work in higher education, attend or want to attend college (or know someone who does), this panel is for you.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Shiley Special Events, San Diego Central Library

5:00pm

Making a Living in Manga: Japan Creators, Editors Talk

What’s it like to work as a comics creator in Japan? What does it take to sell your self- published manga at Tokyo’s Comic Market (Comiket), the world’s largest comics show? How do Japanese manga editors work with creators to craft addictive stories that keep readers coming back for more? Hear what it’s really like to work in the motherland of manga from Japan- and U.S.-based pros who have done all of this and more. Akihide Yanagi (writer, agent), Kamome Shirahama (manga artist, Eniale & Dewiel), Philip S. Y. Tan (Heaven, Uncanny X-Men), Makoto Nishi (manga editor), and Philip Knall(translator, salaryman) offer a rare look behind the scenes of Japan’s manga biz, followed a Q&A session moderated by Deb Aoki (Publishers Weekly, Manga Comics Manga).

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 29AB

5:00pm

MTV’s Teen Wolf

Teen Wolf cast members and executive producer are taking Comic-Con by storm for the sixth consecutive year. The pack of MTV’s hit series Teen Wolf will dish secrets, share a sneak peek of the upcoming season, and answer fan questions.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Ballroom 20

5:00pm

Sense8

On June 5 Netflix debuted one of their most controversial and provocative new series,Sense8. Be on hand for the very first panel discussion of this new series, hosted by co-creator/writer and executive producer J. Michael Straczynski.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 5AB

5:00pm

Spotlight on Jhonen Vasquez

Twenty years ago Johnny the Homicidal Maniac was a comic that barely caused a ripple on the comics landscape. While only seven issues of the series exist, it is now, two decades later, an influential series that spawned many imitators while becoming one of the bestselling creator-owned comics of all time. Jhonen Vasquez looks back on Johnny, and all of his work.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 32AB

5:00pm

The Legion and Paul Levitz

He now writes the new Dr. Fate, but as a writer Paul Levitz is perhaps best known for his three separate long runs writing the Legion of Super-Heroes. Join Paul as Tom Galloway interviews him about his work on, and experiences with, the Legion.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 9

5:00pm

The Most Dangerous Women at Comic-Con: The Good, the Bad, and the Deadly

Everyone can all name a favorite villain or two: the Joker, Darth Vader, Loki. But how many of your favorite bad guys are actually bad girls? Here to discuss the best and baddest of the lady villains (and their lack of representation) is a panel of women equally dangerous in their own rights: Jenna Busch (founder of Legion of Leia, co-host of Most Craved), Susan Eisenberg (Justice League, Destiny), Jane Espenson (Once Upon a Time, Husbands), Jacqueline Goehner (costume designer, cosplayer), Katrina Hill(Action Movie Freak, The Walking Dead Psychology), Makayla Lynn (Legendary Digital Networks),Chase Masterson (The Flash, Star Trek: Deep Space 9), Dr. Janina Scarlet(Superhero Therapy, Star Wars Psychology), Stephanie Thorpe (The Ladies & The Gents, ElfQuest: A Fan Imagining), and Jessica Tseang (comics historian, founder of Little Geek Girls).

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 25ABC

5:00pm

World of Capcom

Moderator Francis Mao (Capcom) and a panel of Capcom staff members share the latest updates on all the new and upcoming Capcom games including Street Fighter V, Resident Evil 0, Devil May Cry 4 Special Edition, and more; plus sneak peeks at all the latest Capcom merchandise and licensing products coming your way soon. Also, some exclusive first-looks and reveals just for SDCC.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 7AB

5:00pm

Writing Transgender Characters

As transgender representation in comics grows in the mainstream, the indie scene, and on the web, creators are bringing the triumphs and challenges of the trans experience to a new readership. What is the best approach to writing transgender characters? How should creators balance the demands of authenticity, advocacy, and entertainment when representing this diverse and often misunderstood community? Join Prism Comics and moderator Tara Madison Avery (Gooch, Prism Comics board member) for a lively discussion of these and other issues with panelists Knave Murdok(Transcat), Ronnie Ritchie (Gqutie), Kat Blaque (illustrator, animator, blogger), Dylan Edwards (Transposes), and Gillian Cameron (Calogrenant).

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Room 28DE

5:30pm

Capturing Teen Angst in Comics

These four cartoonists have written about a universal, dark side of adolescence: teen angst. Peter Bagge (Hate), Gilbert Hernandez (Bumperhead), Jillian Tamaki (Supermutant Magic Academy), and Raina Telgemeier (Drama) talk about how they channel teenage frustrations and apathy in their comics and what this does to their characters, to their storyline, and to their page layouts. Michael Cavna ( The Washington Post) moderates.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Room 8

5:30pm

Fright Night: 30 Years of Screams

Horror screenwriter Greg Beville (Blackstar Canyon) details the special effects and making of Fright Night 1985 and how the film’s practical effects compare to horror films today. Moderated by Now Streaming’s Andrew Furtado (Nightbreed: The Director’s Cut).

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Room 6A

5:30pm

FUNimation Industry Panel

From Akira to Dragon Ball Z, hear the latest news and information from North America’s largest anime distributor, FUNimation.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Room 24ABC

5:30pm

Mad about MAD

MAD, the country’s #1-selling humor magazine (in a field of 1), is dumber than ever!MAD magazine editor John Ficarra and art director Sam Viviano present a ridiculous peek at what’s happening at the magazine, and an epically, moronic Q&A that’s bound to be, well, MAD! Prizes will be awarded for most moronic questions.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Room 4

5:30pm

Spotlight on Tom Grummett

Comic artist Tom Grummett holds a Q&A session on his 25 plus year career in the comic book industry. Bring your questions about teen heroes, dead Kryptonians, or anything you might have wondered about, and gain insights into the ever-evolving world of comics.

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Room 26AB

5:45pm

Dynamite: The Next Ten Years

Join the Dynamite Entertainment team and their star-studded line-up of creative talent as they forecast their game-changing projects of 2016 and beyond, including James Bond, Grumpy Cat, Bob’s Burgers, Vampirella, and more. Special guests David Gonzales (creator of Homies) and Gail Simone (Red Sonja, Swords of Sorrow) will take the stage for a surprise announcements, including awesome developments regarding Grumpy Cat!

Thursday July 9, 2015 5:45pm – 6:45pm
Room 6DE

6:00pm

Adventure Time with Fionna & Cake: Card Wars Dramatic Reading

Jen Wang (In Real Life), has crafted a new, original Adventure Time practice match that ties into KaBOOM!’s new limited comic book series Adventure Time with Fionna & Cake: Card Wars. For the first time anywhere, voice actors from the Adventure Time show will perform it live. Also on hand will be BOOM! Studios editor Shannon Watters and a rep from Cryptozoic, publisher of the real-life Adventure Time: Card Wars game.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Horton Grand Theatre

6:00pm

Creating Characters

Top writers, character designers, and voice actors including Craig Miller (Curious George, Beast Wars), Thomas Hart (Kim Possible, Mickey and the Roadster Racers), Steven E. Gordon (X-Men: Evolution, The Ultimate Avengers), Sasha Marina Palacio (Duck Tales: Remastered, Shantae: Half-Genie Hero), Debi Derryberry (Jimmy Neutron in Jimmy Neutron, Draculaura in Monster High), and Gregg Berger (Odie in Garfield, Grimlock inTransformers) discuss their methods for creating characters, how their tasks and methods both overlap and differ, and how what they do affects the shows and films they’re working on as well as the work of the others.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 32AB

6:00pm

Dark Horse Manga

Dark Horse’s history with Japanese comics can be traced back to the company’s earliest years, with a legacy that includes such legendary series as Oh My Goddess!,Lone Wolf & Cub, Berserk, and many more. Now Dark Horse continues to publish some of the industry’s bestselling titles, such as Neon Genesis Evangelion, Oreimo: Kuroneko,Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, Satoshi Kon’s Opus, Unofficial Hatsune Mix (as seen on David Letterman), and the works of the creative powerhouse Clamp. Be on hand for a look at the past, present, and future of manga at Dark Horse.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 9

6:00pm

DC Comics Meets LEGO Art

Creativity reaches superheroic heights as brick artist Nathan Sawaya reveals the new The Art of the Brick: DC Comics exhibition. Renowned comic book artist and co-publisher of DC Entertainment Jim Lee will draw live the concept for a brand new Batmobile that will be included in the exhibition. Joining in the discussion are production team membersBrandon Griffith and Tommy Williamson. Q&A moderated by TV host Victor Lucas (Electric Playground).

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 25ABC

6:00pm

Inside the Voice Actors Studio

-Bang Zoom! Entertainment brings you this one-hour panel/workshop about voice acting that covers practical dubbing techniques, important issues such as studio protocol, and what to expect at your first audition. This is a great opportunity for attendees interested in the voice-acting profession to get firsthand advice and experience from the pros in an intimate yet dynamic setting. You will learn directly from some of the best voice actors and directors in the world and also get some inside information on how to break in and what the industry is really like.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 30CDE

6:00pm

LGBTQ Geek Year in Review

Media diversity is in the news now more than ever. The past year has been filled with key moments in comics, TV, movies, and animation that every queer geek should know about. Join Prism Comics and moderator P. Kristen Enos (Prism Comics board member, Web of Lives) as they discuss the significance of these key events to the greater LGBTQ community with panelists Diane Anderson-Minshall (The Advocate,Queerly Beloved), Amber Garza (Geeks Out), Matt Kane (GLAAD), Chelsea Steiner(After Ellen), and Sean Z. Maker (Bent-Con).

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 28DE

6:00pm

Masquerade 101

For costumers, future costumers, and those who simply enjoy watching on-stage costume shows, this overview of fan convention costume competitions will discuss their workings, their history, how contests differ from one convention type to another, how judging is done, and what it takes to win. Plus, there will be details on costume research, planning, fabrication, and stage presentation tips for taking original and re-created costumes from concept to stage-ready showpiece-and how to have fun doing it. Presented by Comic-Con Masquerade coordinator for the past 24 years Martin Jaquish, assistant coordinator John Ruff, award-winning fan costumer Allan Lavigne, and award-winning member of the HCC costume group Judy Grivich.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 23ABC

6:00pm

Miami Vice 30th Anniversary Retrospective

Talent from the original smash hit NBC primetime series including Michael Talbott(Det. Stanley Switek), Olivia Brown (Det. Switek), Edward James Olmos (Lt. Castillo), writer Anthony Yerkovich (creator of Miami Vice), writer Jonathan London (Miami Vicegraphic novel) will join Lion Forge Comics senior editor Shannon Eric Denton to discuss the enduring legacy of the show that spawned decades of neo-noir cop shows to follow, and the music, the colors, the alligators, and the action that made it such a hit.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 29AB

6:00pm

NASA: Journey to Mars

This celebrity-moderated discussion with some of NASA’s best and brightest will focus on the agency’s exciting journey to the Red Planet, especially in light of the upcoming Ridley Scott film The Martian.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 6BCF

6:00pm

Streetpass San Diego: Growing a Community

Admins of Streetpass San Diego, the nation’s largest Nintendo meet-up community,Michelle Hernandez, David Denni, Adolfo Coronel, Chris McAtamney, and Jahaziel Aguilera talk about Streetpass San Diego’s growth and take questions on how to grow a community and keep it relevant. The Q&A portion of the panel will be moderated byGabriel Valentin (Digital Lizards of Doom).

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 14A

6:00pm

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents

It’s not often that a major new motion picture and television franchise is announced in a surrounding more intimate than Hall H! So here’s your opportunity to be part of something very special. This panel remains top secret as race is on to bring in an “A-List” franchise director and executive producer, either in person or via a video greeting, studio heads, producers, and include an homage to the underlying comic book artists, writers, and editors.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 7AB

6:00pm

Vertigo: What’s the Story

Vertigo is back in San Diego and ready to blow your mind with trend-setting comics and top-notch talent. From horror, to mythic fiction, to sci-fi, and beyond, see what amazing new ideas are coming your way from the imprint that’s on a mission to defy all your expectations.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Room 5AB

6:00pm

Comedy Central: Drunk History and Another Period

Come learn about the history of Drunk History! Derek Waters (co-creator/host/director) and Jeremy Konner (co-creator/director) walk you through how this historically accurate, yet slightly slurred show works to portray little-known events and figures in history from the perspective of an intoxicated narrator. From humble beginnings as a digital series to two seasons on Comedy Central, with season 3 ready to premiere on September 1, Derek and Jeremy have plenty of stories to tell from the making of the show, including an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming new season. The panel will include Taran Killam (SNL), who has guest starred on all three seasons of the show, along with other guest stars and narrators. There will be a Q&A, an interactive live event, and plenty more fun and debauchery as only Drunk Historycan create. Following that, the party continues with a look at Comedy Central’s new series, Another Period, premiering Tuesday, June 23. The turn-of-the-century historical and satirical scripted series follows the insanely ridiculous and debaucherous life of the Bellacourts, who have more servants than relatives and whose days are filled with money, sex, drugs, and more money. Another Period centers on the Bellacourt sisters, Lillian (Natasha Leggero) and Beatrice (Riki Lindhome), who only care about being rich and becoming super famous. Series creators and stars Natasha and Riki lead an all-star cast, including Michael Ian Black, David Wain, Christina Hendricks, Jason Ritter, and Paget Brewster. Get an exclusive look at Comedy Central’s latest hit with the stars and other guests as they discuss their new show with moderator and writer Moshe Kasher.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

6:00pm

World Premiere of Scooby-Doo! and KISS: Rock and Roll Mystery!

Starchild, Demon, Catman, and Spaceman join everyone’s favorite teen sleuths in an explosive, new, must-see musical adventure no KISS Army member will want to miss. In Scooby-Doo! and KISS: Rock and Roll Mystery, the Mystery Inc. gang travels to KISS World, an amusement park dedicated to the band, for a special Halloween concert headlined by the legendary rock group. Six KISS songs are featured alongside an original new song performed by the band written just for the film. Be part of the first audience to see this landmark merging of pop culture icons, then stay for a panel featuring KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, NCIS star Pauley Perrette, and longtime Shaggy and Daphne voices Matthew Lillard (The Bridge) and Grey Griffin(Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated). Director Tony Cervone (Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon) and writer Kevin Shinick (Mad, Robot Chicken) will also be in attendance. Moderated by director/actor/writer Kevin Smith, who also has a role in the film.Scooby-Doo and KISS: Rock and Roll Mystery arrives from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital HD on July 21.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Hall H

6:30pm

Comics Journalism: It’s About Ethics in Comics Journalism

Charlie Hebdo, Gamergate, cheesecake covers, the Hugo Awards-ethics has become one of the hottest issues in pop culture today, and fandom has converged on comics news sites as a battleworld for debating who should win the culture wars. The Beat’sHeidi MacDonald, Comicbook.com’s James Viscardi, CBR’s Joe Illidge, and other leading comics journalists discuss what, if any, ethical principles should shape news stories affecting the comics community. Attorney and ethics professor Jeff Trexlermoderates.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Room 24ABC

6:30pm

Comics Marketing & PR 101

Need tips on how to market your comic? Have questions about building relationships in the comics industry? This is the panel for you! Sit in on this mind-blowing roundtable discussion, revealing all the secrets of doing marketing and PR for your comics, whether you’re self-publishing or creating for a publisher. Comics marketing superstars Chip Mosher (comiXology VP of communications and marketing), Jacq Cohen (Fantagraphics Books director of publicity and promotions), Jen Vaughn(cartoonist), Janelle Asselin (publisher, Rosy Press), and Kirk Damato (creative manager at Buzzfeed) offer a wide-ranging discussion.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Room 8

6:30pm

So, the Internet Ruined My Life

Bleeding Cool’s editor-in-chief Hannah Means-Shannon hosts Rich Johnston and special guests who have experienced the wrath of the Internet firsthand to talk about the dangers of social media hype and recovering from notoriety. Learn how fans can be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Room 26AB

6:30pm

The Scoop at Simon & Schuster

Lucille Rettino (director of marketing), Chrissy Noh (associate director of marketing),Carolyn Swerdloff (associate director of marketing), Jodie Hockensmith (associate director of publicity), and Joe Monti (director of marketing, Saga Press) give a sneak peek at the hottest books and properties coming from Simon & Schuster. Their discussion will be moderated by Jon Anderson (president and publisher) ), and attendees will take home an exclusive prize.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Room 4

6:30pm

Hall H and Ballroom 20 Thursday Playback Free Play

Didn’t get into Hall H or Ballroom 20 today? We feel your pain! On hand to kick off the panel will be the assistant to the director of programming for Comic-Con, Tommy Goldbach, in this two-and-half-hour block that rebroadcasts some of the day’s popular panels from those two giant rooms. Best of all, those in attendance will get to vote in a show of applause on what they want to see. It’s democracy at its finest, and it’s a second and maybe even a third chance to see these panels. (Please note: these playbacks will include only the panel discussions. None of the film clips or footage shown at the live events will be shown here.)

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:30pm – 9:00pm
The Playback Room, Omni Hotel, 4th Floor Ballroom

6:45pm

Damien

From executive producer Glen Mazaara (The Walking Dead, The Shield), Damien follows the adult life of Damien Thorn, the mysterious child from the 1976 motion picture who has grown up seemingly unaware of the satanic forces around him. Haunted by his past, Damien must now come to terms with his true destiny: that he is the Antichrist. StarringBradley James (Merlin), Barbara Hershey, Megalyn Echikunwoke, and Omid Abtahi. Get an exclusive first look at the show followed by a Q&A with cast and producers, plus a special guest appearance.

Thursday July 9, 2015 6:45pm – 7:45pm
Room 6A

7:00pm

All Shapes and Sizes Welcome

Outspoken actresses, talk-show hosts, models, comic book writers, and CEOs Miracle Laurie (Dollhouse), Helenna Santos (founder/CEO, Ms. In The Biz), Lynn Chen (founder, The Actor’s Diet), Sherry Lee Meredith (host and CEO, Go Curvy TV & Studios), Asha Dahya (host and editor-in-chief, GirlTalkHQ), Malia Miglino (Macabre Mondays, Love or War), and Dani Dixon (TumbleCreek Press, Five Nations share their own journey with body image, eating disorders, and the road to recovery and self-love. They will discuss societal trends, healthy lifestyles, and acceptance for women of all shapes and sizes in the entertainment industry, while inspiring others to get out there, be the change, and live their best life. Moderated by Leah Cevoli (Robot Chicken, Deadwood).

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 14A

7:00pm

E-Textiles and Cosplay: Learn to Sew a Working Light Circuit

Miranda Downey (event producer and partnership coordinator at SparkFun Electronics) will guide you through a beginner’s way to integrate electronics into your cosplay and projects without soldering or wires. In this free workshop you’ll hand-sew a working L.E.D. light circuit to take with you.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 30CDE

7:00pm

Geek and Sundry’s Trivia Game: How Geeky Are You?

Join the Geek & Sundry Twitch channel crew in a trivia battle with you, the audience. The game will test your geek culture knowledge (and improve skills) and award you the chance to win some sweet swag.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 23ABC

7:00pm

Hip-Hop and Comics: Cultures Combining

Hip-Hop and comics intersect in many ways; rappers and graffiti artists utilize superheroic imagery and adopt larger-than-life alter-egos, while comic creators incorporate references to music, dance, and fashion, and draw on Hip-Hop’s rich visual vocabulary. Patrick A. Reed (Depth of Field, ComicsAlliance) brings together a group of graphic artists and musical innovators to discuss the ties between these two creative cultures.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 29AB

7:00pm

Indie Board Games and Kickstarter

Do you want to make your own board game or publish via Kickstarter? Get practical advice, key resources, and tips for pitching to publishers, and learn how to avoid common Kickstarter mistakes. Panelists include game designers Jeremy Commandeur, Chris Castagnetto, and Payton Lee and publishers Brian Henk and Ali Showkati.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 32AB

7:00pm

Manga: Lost in Translation

It seems that manga is charging back from its late ’00s slump, and anime simulcasts have become the norm. So what is it like to work in the industry? Here’s your chance to ask some of the top professionals in the manga and anime industry about their jobs and the titles they’ve worked on. Join William Flanagan (Fairy Tail), Jonathan “Jake” Tarbox (Fist of the North Star), Mari Morimoto (Naruto), Stephen Paul (One Piece), Ed Chavez (director, Vertical Comics), and Lillian Diaz-Przybyl (head of comics, Chromatic Press Inc.) for this panel.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 9

7:00pm

Monkeybrain Comics

Since launching in 2012, Monkeybrain Comics has become recognized as a premier publisher for quality digital comics, and many of their titles have since been released in print editions by publishers such as IDW, Image/Shadowline, and Dark Horse. Co-publishers Allison Baker and Chris Roberson are joined by Monkeybrain creators to discuss what they have learned along the way, and what is in store for the future.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 28DE

7:00pm

Nick Carter Goes West: From Boy Band to Zombie Western

Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys discusses his first foray into film production with the studio behind Sharknado and Z-Nation. Fellow Backstreet Boys Howie Dorough, A.J. McClean, and The Asylum producers join the panel conversation.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 5AB

7:00pm

PodCRASH with That Chris Gore Live

Host Chris Gore (Attack of the Show, Wayward Nerd) is joined by Jon Schnepp(Metalocalypse, The Death of Superman Lives What Happened?), Mary Forrest (The Biloon-Forrest podcast), Tommy Bechtold (The Jimmy Kimmel Show, Geek 360), andJeff Tucker (91 Reasons podcast), along with surprise geek guests for a raucous discussion. This collection of nerdtastic superstars will tackle geek trivia, improv comedy challenges, and fan fiction.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 25ABC

7:00pm

Power Rangers Dino Charge Unleashed: Behind the Suit

Saban’s Power Rangers Dino Charge cast members Brennan Mejia (Red Ranger), Camille Hyde (Pink Ranger), James Davies (Black Ranger), Michael Taber (Green Ranger),Yoshua Sudarso (Blue Ranger), and Claire Blackwelder (museum director, Kendall Morgan), explore the past, present, and future of the iconic Power Rangers franchise, now in its 22nd season on Nickelodeon. The cast will give fans an inside look at what it’s like to be a Power Ranger, as well as offer sneak peeks at upcoming episodes, exclusive giveaways, and a charged-up Q&A session. Moderated by Power Rangers enthusiast Andre Meadows (founder of BlackNerdComedy).

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 7AB

7:00pm

Surviving The Walking Dead: Understanding Behavior in a World Without Rules

In The Walking Dead, ethical lines are crossed and taboos broken as survivors adapt to a new way of life. But what drives the living to do terrible things, and how far will they go? Why do the atrocities committed by The Governor and The Hunters attract followers? Did society’s breakdown break Morgan’s psyche? Does Abraham’s traumatic past direct his “mission”? How does Rick remain sane? Is he immune to the “insanity”? Forensic psychiatrists H. Eric Bender, M.D., Praveen R. Kambam, M.D., andVasilis K. Pozios, M.D., of Broadcast Thought, and special guests analyze the minds of heroes and villains of The Walking Dead. In a world of walkers, is humanity a liability? Learn how some rise above the mayhem while others fall into the depths of derangement when walkers prey on the living, the living prey on each other, and everyone prays they survive.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Room 6DE

7:15pm

Dark Matter

Dark Matter (a new series on Syfy Channel, based on the Dark Horse graphic novel) invites you to join the crew of the Raza. Actors Melissa O’Neil, Anthony Lemke, Roger Cross, and Jodelle Ferland join executive producer Jay Firestone (Lost Girl), and creator and show runner Joseph Mallozi (Stargate ) to discuss the mysteries of the show’s first season.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:15pm – 8:15pm
Room 6BCF

7:30pm

Artists as Brand: Rise of the Artist Entrepreneur-

Greg Spalenka (artist in publishing, film and higher education, Sandman, Titan Books,The Golden Compass) moderates this annual panel discussion on art career sustainability. Learn strategies on how to create an income from your talent on your own terms. Panelists include the Shiflett Brothers (sculptors extraordinaire of comic and original designs, Oddworld: Abe’s Odysee, Verotik comics), Jeff Soto(painter/illustrator/muralist who has exhibited in galleries and museums around the world), Daniel M. Davis (artist/designer of Steam Crow), Diana Levin (gothic fantasy artist, illustrator, jeweler), and Melissa Pagluica (illustrator and creator of the comicAbove the Clouds). Giveaway will include three free Artist as Brand Workbooks.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Room 8

7:30pm

Generations in Conversation: Terry Brooks and Pierce Brown

Terry Brooks (Shannara series) has been writing fantasy for nearly 40 years, and his editor Anne Groell has been editing for more than 20 years. Author Pierce Brown (Red Rising) arrived on the scene only 1 year ago, while his editor Michael Braff began his career 5 years ago. Both authors were instant New York Times bestsellers-Terry in 1977 and Pierce in 2014. Both have sold their stories to Hollywood. And both have very passionate fans. Join these authors and their editors as they discuss the changing landscape of book publishing, genre fiction, and how their experiences compare as the legend versus the rookie.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Room 4

7:30pm

Robotech: The Next 30 Years

Kevin McKeever (VP of marketing at Harmony Gold) showcases all the latest merchandise, along with the latest updates on the live-action Robotech film.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Room 24ABC

7:30pm

Tattooine Law: Legal Lessons from Star Wars

Federal Magistrate JudgePaul Grewal, Gerry O’Brien (NY political consultant and novelist), Jessica Mederson, Esq. (The Legal Geeks), and Joshua Gilliland, Esq. (The Legal Geeks) explore the legal system from a galaxy far, far away. The panel will jump to light speed to explore the many legal lessons on Tatooine, including the intricacies of property ownership of R2-D2 and C-3PO; employee and independent contractor safety issues in Jabba’s Palace; and Han’s legal justification to shoot first.

Thursday July 9, 2015 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Room 26AB

8:00pm

Cartoon Network: Adventure Time Royal Ball

It’s the 2nd annual Adventure Time Royal Ball! Last year Cartoon Network filled a ballroom with the most righteous of warriors and the fairest in all the Land of Ooo, and this year they’re returning with more fan-favorites, another first-look Adventure Timeepisode, and a very special world premiere screening of the newest Cartoon Network hit series We Bare Bears! Don’t forget to dress up in your most inspired outfit for the royal procession and your chance to win righteous prizes. Now come one, come all for a night of mathematical magic!

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 7AB

8:00pm

Character Creation

The realm of creation has never been a more accessible thing. With the rise of self-publishing, e-books, webseries, webcomics, podcasting, and cosplay, how do you know where to start? This panel looks at how to create a character from scratch as well as how to create the back-story, personality, and design of that character. Panelists include Claire Hummel (Bioshock Infinite, artist), Sheyne Fleischer (League of S.T.E.A.M., editor), Andrew Fogel (League of S.T.E.A.M., director), and Glenn Freund(UC Berkeley) to discuss, things to look out for when creating a character, how your character can thrive, and the functionality and forum in your character.

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 30CDE

8:00pm

LARP Hits the Big Time-

Live-action role playing (LARP) has become one of the hottest fan experiences of the decade thanks to huge events like The College of Wizardry, a Harry Potter inspired multi-day extravaganza set in an actual Polish castle; Monitor Celestra, an intense interactive Battlestar Galactica LARP adaptation set aboard a Swedish battleship, and Inside Hamlet, which reinvented Shakespeare’s classic play inside the real Castle Elsinore. With increased media exposure like the new feature documentary Treasure Trapped, more people than ever are discovering and enjoying this thrilling performance artform. Panelists will explain what LARPs are and how you can get involved, show off clips from these blockbuster LARPs, and make a few big announcements. FeaturingKaza Marie Ayersman (The LARP Girl), CeciliaDolk (marketing director, Odyssé),MoMo O’Brien (YouTuber), DavidPulcifer (The Larp City Project), Matthew Sturdy(editor, Treasure Trapped), and Alex Taylor (director, Treasure Trapped). Moderated byAaron Vanek (co-creator, the LARP Census).

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 14A

8:00pm

Larry Nemecek’s Trekland: 2015 Losses, Rumors, and Birthdays Edition

Larry “Dr. Trek” Nemecek ( The Con of Wrath, Star Trek Continues) digs into his archives, images, bloopers, and memories from 30 years with a front-row seat in Trekland, for his annual look at the state of things Trek (TV revival rumors, Trek 3, fandom attitudes) as well as the losses (Nimoy, Bennett, and Whitney); and the anniversaries (50 years of Shatner’s Kirk; 10 years since the end of Enterprise in TV Trek).

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 28DE

8:00pm

Nerdist Comics Panel: SDCC Edition

Hosts Ben Blacker (Thunderbolts; The Thrilling Adventure Hour) and Heath Corson(Batman: Assault on Arkham) present The Nerdist Comics Panel, where the process and business of writing for comics will be discussed. Catch this special San Diego Comic-Con edition.

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 23ABC

8:00pm

Psychology of Cult TV Shows Episode 2

Back by popular demand, this panel of geeky experts discuss the psychology behind such cult TV shows as Doctor Who, Sherlock, Buffy, Firefly, Arrow, The Walking Dead, The Legend of Korra, and others. Experts includeDr. Janina Scarlet (Superhero Therapy; Star Wars Psychology), Jane Espenson (writer,Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Firefly), Dr. Travis Langley (Star Trek Psychology: The Mental Frontier, Doctor Who Psychology: A Madman with a Box), Dr. Billy San Juan ( The Walking Dead Psychology; Star Wars Psychology),Alan Kistler (Doctor Who, A History; Walking Dead Psychology), Jenna Busch (Legion of Leia; Star Wars Psychology), Alex Langley (Geek Handbook 2; Kill the Freshman), and moderator Katrina Hill (Action Movie Freak). Participate in a live discussion of such fundamental questions as Does Korra have PTSD? What is happening to the 12th Doctor? What is the role of these TV shows in our lives?

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 25ABC

8:00pm

Son of Name That Movie

Returning for a third record-breaking year is the combination game show and visual/audio event known as Son of Name That Movie. Inkpot Award-winning host and creator John Field presents the fu- filled program shown to a packed house of film fans the last two years running. In this all-new version, 50 clips from 50 different sci-fi, horror, and fantasy films are presented. Place your ticket in the Magic Film Can. If picked from among audience members, you get to play the game by simply naming as many of the clips as possible. There will be first- through fourth-place prizes. And, if someone on the panel cannot name the clip and an audience member can, that person will get a bonus prize as well.

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 9

8:00pm

The Science of Science Fiction: The Science Accuracy Pendulum

For science fiction productions, there is an implied bargain between the screenwriter and the audience: Suspend your disbelief on one or two fantastic notions, and the rest of the story will be grounded in the believable. The genre is, in essence, predicated on the expectation of one or two key inaccuracies per story. In recent years, though, experts and fans alike have been nitpicking even the main story conceits of films likeGravity and Interstellar. From the “anything goes” storytelling approach of the 1950s and 1960s sci-fi, our panelists discuss whether or not the scientific accuracy pendulum of audience expectations has swung too far in the other direction. The panel will be moderated by Kevin Grazier, Ph.D. (science advisor for Defiance and Battlestar Galactica) and will feature psychologists Andrea Letamendi, Ph.D., and Jessica Cail, Ph.D., as well as Kevin Murphy (showrunner for Defiance and Caprica), Nicole Perlman(writer, Guardians of the Galaxy), Andre Bormanis (writer, Star Trek and Threshold), andRick Loverd (program director of the Science and Entertainment Exchange).

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 5AB

8:00pm

Toy Break: Independent Toy Design

Learn how independent toy producers are bringing their original and licensed creations to life. Leading toy designers George Gaspar (October Toys), Scott Tolleson(Stolle Art), Nate Mitchell (Squid Kids Ink), and H. Eric “Cornboy” Mayse (The Four Horsemen) discuss toy production and brand development and answer audience questions. Moderated by Ayleen Gaspar (Toy Break).

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 32AB

8:00pm

Web Series Creators: The Next Generation

Web series have established themselves as providing some of the most innovative content in the entertainment world. But where do they go from here? Jeff Burns(chairman of the International Academy of Web Television and host of Super Geeked Up) leads a discussion about the future of the digital space and how you can get involved. Featuring a panel of some of the best-known stars of the web series world:Sandeep Parikh (The Guild, The Real Housewives of Horror), Joanna Sotomura (Video Game High School, Emma Approved), Jonathan Robbins (Out With Dad, Clutch), Nicole Wright (Progress, Super Geeked Up), Christine Lakin ( Telltale Games The Walking Dead,Lovin’ Lakin), and Brea Grant (Heroes, The Real Housewives of Horror). Come find out what exciting series you’ll be able to watch from these creators soon.

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Room 29AB

8:00pm

18th Annual Superhero Kung Fu Extravaganza

Ric Meyers (Inside Kung Fu, Films of Fury: The Kung Fu Movie Movie [& Book]) has got a whole new bunch of eye-bulging, jaw-dropping, breath-taking, goose-bumping, funny-bone-cracking fight scenes from the best, worst, and weirdest films in the whole world. With his co-hosts Graham Eldwood and Chris J. Mancini (Comedy Film Nerds, Ear Buds) back in action; a report direct from Beijing by the king of YouTube kung-fu Eric Jacobus (as well as the Comic-Con premiere of his amazing new Rope-A-Dope 2); and their standard operating surprises, it’s not just awe-some, it’s awe-all. Be there or be in Tiananmen Square!

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:00pm – 10:30pm
Room 6A

8:15pm

Dominion

All hell is breaking loose as the battle between angels and mankind continues in a second season of Syfy’s hit show Dominion. Join executive producer Vaun Wilmott for an exclusive screening of the first two episodes of Season 2. See episode 2 one week before it premieres on Syfy!

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:15pm – 10:00pm
Room 6DE

8:30pm

Alien Civilizations

Award winning science fiction authors, a scientist/futurist, screenwriters, SFX artists, and actors talk about alien civilizations and how to design alien species, ships, and societies for use in storytelling. Join David Brin (The Uplift War, Existence), Marc Scott Zicree (Star Trek TNG, Space Command), Geoff Mark (Babylon 5, Battlestar Galactica),Jimmy Diggs (Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Beyond he Stars), Gigi Edgley (Farscape, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge), Rebekah R. Ganiere (author at Kensington & Fallen Angel Press, The Society Series, Fairelle Series, Skyward Bound), and James Ganiere(CEO & creative, Rio Vista Universal, chief editor, Fallen Angel Press). Moderated byMark O’Bannon (The Dream Crystal, Aia the Barbarian).

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:30pm – 9:30pm
Room 8

8:30pm

Webcomics Advocates and the Webcomics Gathering

Webcomics Advocates co-founders Phil Vecchio and Brendan Creecy (Brax the Alien Rocker, Radio BrendoMan podcast) celebrate and discuss the exciting world of webcomics. Joined by Patrick Scullin (Super Siblings) and moderator Josh Anderson(Extra Damage podcast), they will give any webcomic creators in the audience 30 seconds to promote their comic to the crowd.

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:30pm – 9:30pm
Room 4

8:30pm

Comics on Comics: Live!

The hit talk show that pits comedians against comic creators in nerd debates kicks off SDCC in style for its 7th year running. Join hosts Juan-Manuel Rocha and Vito Lapiccola as they welcome The King of Detroit himself, comedian Clayton Thomas(writer for Martin Lawrence, Bounce TV) and a surprise creator guest in what is always one of the most hilarious and entertaining panels at the Con!

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:30pm – 10:00pm
Room 26AB

8:30pm

Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog

Join the fun and sing along as the California Browncoats screen Internet sensation Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog. Enter the horrible costume contest and win horrible prizes in four categories: Best Dr. Horrible, Captain Hammer, Penny, and “other” character from the show. A grand prize will be awarded to one well-prepared individual for “Best in Show.” Do not bounce!

Thursday July 9, 2015 8:30pm – 10:00pm
Room 6BCF

9:00pm

Nerdist Gaming

On the hot, thirsty roads of the summer video games drought, Nerdist Gaming editorMalik Forté (Nerdist Play) and company are looking to provide relief in the form of insightful, uplifting, and hyperenthusiastic discussions about everything game-related. Join Malik and guests for an easygoing powwow about the state of the gaming industry and what its future holds.

Thursday July 9, 2015 9:00pm – 10:00pm
Room 23ABC

9:00pm

Floyd Norman Documentary

Filmmakers Michael Fiore (producer of the upcoming feature Home Invasion) and Erik Sharkey (director of Drew: The Man Behind the Poster) will show clips from their original feature-length documentary and reunite Floyd Norman (legendary Disney and Hanna Barbera animator and story artist) with many animators and artists that he influenced and worked with over his 60-year career. Panelists will include notables featured in the documentary includingPaul Dini (animation writer/producer), Gary Trousdale (co-director of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), Scott Shaw! (cartoonist, humorist, historian),Leo Sullivan (animator, producer, publisher), Ken Mitchroney (writer, director, story artist), Adrienne Nichelle Brown-Norman (illustrator, Disney Publishing), and Tom Sito (animator, professor of animation, USC). The documentary also features interviews with such notables as actress Whoopi Goldberg, cartoonist Sergio Aragonés, Disney music composer Richard Sherman, producer Don Hahn, Maleficent), Ralph Guggenheim (former Pixar VP of animation), and film critic/historian Leonard Maltin. The documentary is supported by a musical score composed by Ryan Shore(composer, Disney’s Penn Zero and WB’s Scooby-Doo!). The filmmakers will moderate a Q&A session and celebrate Mr. Norman’s 80th birthday

Thursday July 9, 2015 9:00pm – 10:30pm
Room 9

9:00pm

Spirited Away Screening

Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away has captured the hearts of viewers all over the world. Join Her Universe and Hot Topic for Studio Ghibli trivia, prizes and a special screening of the beloved film, hosted by Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein.

Thursday July 9, 2015 9:00pm – 11:30pm
Horton Grand Theatre

(image via AnimeNut on Flickr)

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