Are you going to San Diego Comic-Con, running Thursday July 24th-Sunday July 27th? I hate you. Also: Good luck. Also also: You’re probably wondering what panels are going to be there, huh? Schedule info has been rolling in from various studios and the con itself, and here it is for you, sweet readers. First off: Thursday (with one Wednesday preview night item). Hannibal! Adventure Time! Penny Dreadful! George R.R. Martin! And more!
For ease of scanning, panels of particular Mary Sue-ish interest are bolded. Please note that some of the panels are in the The Marriott Marquis & Marina, the Horton Grand Theater a block away from the Convention Center, the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel, or the Grand Ballroom at the Omni San Diego Hotel. All our eternal love and devotion to The Beat, which copy-pasted this whole mess o’ text from the SDCC official website.
Wednesday, July 26th
6:00pm – 10:00pm
Special Sneak Peek Pilot Screenings Ballroom 20
Comic-Con International and Warner Bros. Television proudly continue their annual Preview Night tradition, with exclusive world premiere screenings of the pilot episodes of three of the most highly anticipated series of the 2014-15 television season — The Flash, Constantine, and iZombie — as well as a brand new episode of Teen Titans Go!
Thursday, July 27th
10:00am – 11:00am
#FreeBabylon5: A Fan Campaign Room 29A
Jan Schroeder (freebabylon5.com) and Jon Del Arroz (flyingsparkscomic.com) discuss a growing fan campaign that sprang up after J. Michael Straczynski tweeted the hashtag #FreeBabylon5 and urged fans to “get organized and loud” if Babylon 5 fandom is to grow. See what has been accomplished so far and help brainstorm what can be done in the future to promote this seminal science fiction show and bring it to new viewers.
10:00am – 11:00am
24 Ballroom 20
Jack is back at Comic-Con, damn it! Kiefer Sutherland takes the stage to celebrate 24′s most iconic moments and highlights of Jack Bauer’s triumphant return in 24: Live Another Day. Catch the exclusive sneak peek at highly anticipated Blu-ray and DVD featurette, Worlds Collide, illustrating how the pulse-pounding storytelling was created for this thrilling new season. Screening and discussion moderated by executive producer Jon Cassar to be followed by Q&A.
10:00am – 11:00am
Comic-Con How-To: Don’t Tell Your Story, Show It! Room 2
Ever wonder how the really good books suck readers in and hold their attention page after page? It’s not the characters, nor the plot of the book. It is the way in which the author writes that separates his or her story from the pack. Award-winning author Maxwell Alexander Drake will use current examples to help you gain insight into how to put your story together in a compelling way that will keep your readers turning the pages to see what happens next.
10:00am – 11:00am
DC Collectibles Room 9
Action figures, statues, busts, PVC figures…DC Collectibles has them all-and more! The DC Collectibles crew-including DVP for creative services Kevin Kiniry, director for creative services Jim Fletcher, artists Greg Capullo (Batman) and Dustin Nguyen (Batman: Li’l Gotham), and sculptor Jon Matthews-tell how they come up with so many great products, and what’s coming up from comics’ top makers of awesome collectibles!
10:00am – 11:00am
God Is Disappointed in You with Shannon Wheeler & Mark Russell Room 32AB
God Is Disappointed in You, published by Top Shelf, is the tongue-in-cheek “condensed” version of the Bible you never knew you needed-hilariously modern, but surprisingly authentic-with illustrations and gags by New Yorker cartoonist Shannon Wheeler (Too Much Coffee Man). Wheeler and writer Mark Russell join together for an hour of unforgettable irreverence, including Q&A, audience sketches, and the hilarious-yet-accurate “ten-minute Bible.” Plus: a taste of the new audiobook, read by Dr. Venture himself, James Urbaniak (The Venture Bros.)!
10:00am – 11:00am
Graphic Novel Programming at Your Library Room 23ABC
“I just don’t know what to do!” say many librarians and other educators who don’t have graphic novel/comic book-themed programs. Greg Evans (Luann), Joe Field (Flying Colors Comics & Other Cool Stuff), and Hillary W. Chang (McCully-Moiliili Public Library) discuss the process to accomplish such programs as an artist speaking tour, Free Comic Book Day, and even a Library Con.
10:00am – 11:00am
Marvel: Breaking into Comics the Marvel Way Room 7AB
Have a passion for the inner workings of the comics industry? Curious about breaking into the field as a writer or artist? Marvel professionals from every corner of the business give insider tips, advice, and first-hand accounts of what it takes to start a career in comics today. Panelists include editor-in-chief Axel Alonso, talent scout C. B. Cebulski, and a slew of Marvel talent!
10:00am – 11:00am
My Adventures in Storytelling Room 28DE
Brian Stelfreeze (Batman Black-and-White, Wednesday’s Comics, Day Men) talks about his career as a comics illustrator and shares what he’s learned along the way. Welcome to this lively discussion and Q&A moderated by his good friend Doug Wagner (Gun Candy, I.C.E.).
10:00am – 11:00am
The Witcher Room 6A
A franchise spanning literature, comics, film & television, board games, and widely popular video games, The Witcher has touched millions with its engaging characters and exciting adventures. A diverse panel of experts discuss the many aspects of this renowned universe. Be the first to see new Dark Horse publications, see the first-ever live consumer demo of the upcoming The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt video game, and get a chance to meet the team behind Wild Hunt. Panelists include actors Doug Cockle (Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher franchise), Dark Horse Comics author Paul Tobin (The Witcher House of Glass), Nick McWhorter, CD PROJEKT RED’s game developers Damien Monnier and Lukasz Wnek (The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt), and Rafal Jaki. Moderated by SpikeTV’s Geoff Keighley.
10:00am – 11:00am
Wonderbook: Writers on Creativity and Inspiration Room 25ABC
Jeff VanderMeer (award-winning author of Wonderbook) and Lev Grossman (novelist and journalist for TIME magazine, as well as contributor to Wonderbook), Charles Yu (novelist and contributor to Wonderbook), and Anina Bennett and Paul Guinan (authors of the science fiction comic Heartbreakers, as well as the books Boilerplate: History’s Mechanical Marvel) partake in a discussion led by Ann VanderMeer about the creative process and “sense of wonder” that is key to the writing process, in the context of the participants’ current works as well as the innovative visuals in the Hugo Award-nominated Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction.
10:00am – 11:00am
Comic-Con Film School 101: Preproduction and Screenwriting Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
Comic-Con Film School is back for another four-day, nuts-and-bolts class on how to make a movie for very little money using available video technology and desktop postproduction software. Whether you’re shooting your first Zelda fan film or that story about the leather-clad girl who hunts gargoyles, this course will take you from script to final product so that you too can enter your own movie into the CCI-IFF. This first class covers the specifics of preproduction on the cheap, including screenwriting, scheduling, location scouting, crewing-up, and getting equipment for nothing. Panelists for the class include Valerie Perez (producer/star of the Paula Peril series), Jack Conway (producer of Machinima ETC), Vera Vanguard (producer of The Building of Good and Evil), Nick Murphy (writer/director of Pizza and Bullets), Josh Perilo (writer of Wedlock), and Sean Rourke (writer of Ballistica).
10:00am – 11:30am
Shonen Jump: Naruto Room 8
Naruto is one of the world’s most popular manga series, with over 60 bestselling volumes published. Get all the latest news on the Naruto manga, anime, video games, and more at this super-sized panel, featuring guests from VIZ Media, Bandai Namco games, and a special guest you’ll have to see to believe!
10:15am – 11:15am
Mattel and WWE: Over-the-Top-Action! Room 6DE
Two of the world’s top entertainment companies have teamed up for the ultimate panel at SDCC. WWE Superstars and Mattel designers will talk about the all-new WWE Network and give exclusive sneak peeks of Mattel’s upcoming WWE figure releases! Incredible guest appearances by Hulk Hogan, Daniel Bryan, Michael Cole, Paul Heyman, and you never know what else will be unveiled. This is a panel you won’t want to miss, brother!
10:30am – 11:30am
Behind the Music: Crime, Death and Resurrection Room 4
Murder, mayhem, mystery and more are all at the center of “Crime, Death and Resurrection,” a Behind the Music panel featuring composers that create the music to some of your favorite television shows and movies! Join Jeff Russo (FX’sFargo and CBS’s Hostages), James Levine (FX’s American Horror Story and TNT’s Major Crimes), Daniel Licht (Showtime’s Dexter and Sundance TV’s The Red Road), Brian Reitzell (NBC’s Hannibal and Columbia Pictures’ 30 Days of Night), Steve Jablonsky (Paramount Pictures’ Transformers franchise, TNT’s The Last Ship and Summit Entertainment’s Ender’s Game), Christopher Young (Screen Gem’s Deliver Us From Evil, Syfy’s Dominion and Columbia Pictures’ SpiderMan 3) as they share their secrets for getting us to the edge of our seats as blood spills on screen. With special guest moderator Shane West (The CW’s Nikita and WGN’s Salem)! With exclusive giveaways for fans!
10:30am – 11:30am
Legends of TV Land Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Get up close and personal with icons of television! Superstar Betty White (The Golden Girls, Hot in Cleveland) and other TV celebs will answer questions about their work and making history on television. Plus, get a special sneak peek at the animated episode of TV Land’s original sitcom Hot in Cleveland, airing July 30th.
10:30am – 11:30am
Taming the Web: The Nuts and Bolts of Web Series Creation Room 24ABC
Career at a dead-end? Not sure how to make your talents known? Our panelists are veteran Web series producers, directors, and stars who’ve figured out how to successfully launch their own online series and parlay them into moneymaking ventures. They’re dolling out tips on producing, content creation, crowdsourcing funds and luring advertisers, marketing and branding and—when TV comes calling—negotiating the transition so you retain ownership. Panelists include producer/director/actor Satu Runa (Queen Gorya), producer/actor/crowdfunding queen Leah Cevoli (FanBacked), producer/director/writer/actor Freddie Wong (Video Game High School), master weaponsmaker Tony Swatton (Man At Arms), and YouTube programming strategist Nathan Kitada. Moderated by Fast Company’s Susan Karlin.
10:30am – 11:30am
The Legacy and Return of Battlestar Galactica Room 6BCF
Richard Hatch (Tom Zarek, Captain Apollo), Jamie Bamber (Lee Adama), and Dr. Kevin Grazier (science consultant for Falling Skies, Battlestar Galactica, Eureka) host a discussion and Q&A on the upcoming Battlestar Galactica movie and where fans would like to see the story and characters go. Panelists include Luciana Carro (Battlestar Galactica, Falling Skies) and producer Alec Peters (Propworks, Battlestar Galactica auction, Axanar), plus surprise guests and theatrical trailers.
10:30am – 12:00pm
Comic Book Law School 101: The Beginning Is the Most Important Part Room 30CDE
Ideas, characters, plots, designs, stories, paintings, photos, titles, names, logos, brands-it’s enough to drive one crazy if you don’t know your copyright from your trademark from your trade secret. But never fear-help is only a 90-minute program away. Noted IP attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, offers the first of three fun and informative programs, which taken together are designed to provide you with a basic foundation in intellectual property law and related areas, including securing and enforcing your rights, contracts and licensing, fair use, parody, social media and much more. This first installment focuses on “The Basics” in an effort to provide a foundation for understanding the different intellectual property rights available to creators and business owners and teach ways to protect those rights, focusing on how best to safeguard ideas, inventions, works of authorship, characters, brands and names, from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees are invited to participate in an interactive discussion about basic rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, including their intersection with new media, as well as new decisions and changes in the law and how they could affect those rights (and if time permits, he’ll touch on issues of joint authorship, fair use, parody and/or piracy). Along the way, there will be plenty to learn about the protections available, as well as the numerous potential pitfalls, under the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. Please note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.]
10:30am – 12:00pm
Comics Arts Conference Session #1: Comics and Nations Room 26AB
Aerum Jeong (University of California, Los Angeles) examines how Lob and Rochette’s graphic novel trilogy Le Transperceneige and the filmic adaptation Snowpiercer use local cultural and political motifs to construct a space in which the readers/viewers can imagine themselves as part of a nation. Sam Cannon (University of Texas at Austin) analyzes how the creators of Detective Heredia use locations in Santiago, Chile to conjure violent places of memory that synthesize past, present, and future meanings of the city. Cathy Thomas (University of California, Santa Cruz) uses recent work in hemispheric American border studies to explain how the misread love missive, such as the brick thrown by a mouse named Ignatz that always “creases the bean” of a cat called Krazy, re-stages courtship and colonial imagination.
11:00am – 12:00pm
Comic Creator Connection All-Stars Room 32AB
Have you heard of the CCC? The Comic Creator Connection is the original “speed-dating” event that introduces writers and artists who are struggling to find their creative counterparts and is featured exclusively at the Comic-Con International family of conventions. This All-Star panel spotlights newly published teams who first met at a Comic Creator Connection event. CCC Hosts Douglas Neff and Corey Rothermel (authors of Epic Win! The Geek’s Guide to the Journey from Fan to Creator) will draw from our veterans the lessons they learned starting and maintaining a successful creative partnership, covering everything from the first handshake to the first draft to the first sale. If you are an aspiring comic book creator, you do not want to miss this panel!
11:00am – 12:00pm
Comic-Con How-To: Point of View: What’s the Point? Room 2
With so many terms and styles, diving into the mechanics of the craft of writing can be scary. And Point of View (POV) can be one of the toughest to tackle. Yet, if used correctly, POV is a wonderful and powerful tool that is the backbone of your story. Award-winning author Maxwell Alexander Drake helps break this piece of the writing puzzle down into something you can use to enhance your writing style.
11:00am – 12:00pm
Flesk Publications Exposed! The Artists Spill Their Guts! Room 28DE
With a lineup including Frank Cho (Drawing Beautiful Women, Savage Wolverine ), Terry Dodson (Red One, Uncanny X-Men), Mark Schultz (Xenozoic, Storms at Sea), and William Stout (Hallucinations,Legends of the Blues) talking new projects-and publisher John Fleskes frankly discussing future Flesk titles and the latest on the renowned Spectrum Fantastic Art series-you can expect an entertaining hour!
11:00am – 12:00pm
Godzilla and The Master of Monsters Room 23ABC
August Ragone (Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters), David E. Chapple (Famous Monsters of Filmland), and Arian Hinojosa (Monster Attack Team) present a discussion on the man who brought Godzilla and Ultraman to life, establishing the art of Japanese visual effects and creating the genre known as the “kaiju eiga” (Japanese monster movies). See rare, behind-the-scenes photographs of how the original Godzilla films were made and the men and women who made them.
11:00am – 12:00pm
Hasbro: Transformers Room 25ABC
Members of the Hasbro and Hasbro Studios team will give fans an exclusive sneak peek at the new animated series Transformers: Robots In Disguise airing in early 2015 on Hub Network in the U.S. and globally. Attendees will also get a first look at the third season of Transformers: Rescue Bots, also airing on the Hub Network. In addition, attendees can celebrate the 30-year legacy of the Transformers brand and experience exclusive reveals of never-beefore-seen product. The Transformers team members will also host some Q&A for your burning Transformers questions!
11:00am – 12:00pm
How Fan Fiction Can Lead to Being a Professional Room 29A
Fan fiction can lead to jobs in several fields as a professional, including writing books, acting, screenwriting, and many others. Panelists include Katherine Fugate (Valentine’s Day), a selected member of the board of directors of the WGAW, who created/executive produced/wrote Army Wives; Melissa Good (Tropical Storm), a fan fiction writer and novelist who has written episodes for Xena, Warrior Princess; Nancy Holder (Buffy The Vampire Slayer, The Watcher’s Guide), New York Times bestselling author whose fan fiction street cred includes Robin of Sherwood; Dru Pagliassotti, a novelist and professor at a California university who has researched Western manga fandom and teaches courses on film and comics analysis; Nancy Cornell-Healy (Intersection), comedian/novelist/playwright; Justin Robinson (Get Blank), a multitalented novelist; and Sherri Rabinowitz (Fantasy Time Inc.), a writer of fan fiction, playwright and award-nominated novelist and host of the popular blog talk radio show Chatting With Sherri.
11:00am – 12:00pm
Science Fiction & Fantasy Literature Room 5AB
Dr. David Brin (Hugo, Locus and Nebula Award-winning author of the Uplift trilogy), Jim Butcher (NY Times bestselling author of The Dresden Files series), Rachel Caine (NY Times bestselling author of the Morganville Vampires series), Jason Hough (NY Times bestselling author of The Darwin Elevator series), Marie Lu (NY Times bestselling author of the Legend series), and Jonathan Maberry (NY Times bestselling author of the Joe Ledger series) discuss writing science fiction and fantasy novels and their adaptation to TV and movies. Moderated by Henry Herz (editor of Beyond the Pale).
11:00am – 12:00pm
Spotlight on Dan Slott Room 7AB
NY Times bestselling comic book author and Comic-Con special guest Dan Slott (Amazing Spider-Man, Superior Spider-Man, Silver Surfer) shares stories about working in comics, from his early days on Ren & Stimpy to Batman: Arkham Asylum Living Hell to his current runs on Spidey and Surfer. Moderated by Dan’s pal, comic book journalist Jill Pantozzi (TheMarySue.com). Attendees be warned: mind-swapping might occur.
11:00am – 12:00pm
The Simpsons and SpongeBob Smile-Time Hour Room 9
Creative director Nathan Kane and managing editors Terry Delegeane and Chris Duffy give you the lowdown on how Bongo Comics Group and United Plankton Pictures make the best humor comic books in the business. Meet some of the Bongo and United Plankton artists and writers who have tickled your four-color funny bone. Find out what’s in stores in the coming months!
11:05am – 11:40am
The Professor Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
An ex-professor (Breaking Bad’s Betsy Brandt) and her gang of student radicals kidnap a famous news anchor and force him to read the “real news” live on the Internet. Participating panelists include Perri Nemiroff (producer, Child Eater).
11:15am – 12:00pm
Under the Dome: Panel and Exclusive Sneak Preview Ballroom 20
The hit summer series is back for its second season, bigger than ever with higher stakes and catastrophic developments that leave no one safe under the dome. The inhabitants of Chester’s Mill must decide who to rally behind as Big Jim continues to fight for the town’s trust and allegiance, all while resources dwindle and the post-apocalyptic conditions continue to intensify. There are new faces, bigger mysteries, betrayal of alliances, and monumental revelations about the dome, which will lead to a shocking discovery of what is behind it. Journey back under the dome, where you can’t always believe what you see and nothing is impossible. An exclusive sneak preview at what’s to come in season 2 will be followed by a panel discussion with the cast: Mike Vogel (Bates Motel), Dean Norris (Breaking Bad), Rachelle Lefevre (Twilight), Alexander Koch, Colin Ford, and Mackenzie Lintz, along with executive producer Neal Baer.
11:15am – 12:15pm
Toy Story That Time Forgot Room 6A
Calling all Toy Story fans! ABC and Disney•Pixar present an exclusive first look at the upcoming holiday special, Toy Story That Time Forgot. Executive producer Galyn Susman (Toy Story OF TERROR!), director Steve Purcell (Brave), and head of story Derek Thompson (WALL•E) give you an exclusive inside look at the sketches, storyboards, and concepts that went into the making of this Disney•Pixar special!
11:30am – 12:30pm
DC Entertainment All Access: 101 Room 6DE
DC Comics’s backlist is full of the most exciting stories ever told! New fans and veteran fans alike are welcome for an in-depth tutorial on the essential stories and products that make up DC Comics’s rich history. At DC Entertainment, there’s never been a better time to be a comics fan!
11:30am – 12:30pm
Dig: A USA Network Event Series Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
USA Network’s highly anticipated new television event series, Dig, makes its debut at Comic-Con! From co-creators Tim Kring (creator and executive producer of Heroes) and Gideon Raff (executive producer of Homeland), Dig follows an FBI agent stationed in Israel who, while investigating the murder of a young American archaeologist, uncovers a global conspiracy 2,000 years in the making. The panel will give fans an inside look into this fast-paced international thriller as Tim Kring and cast members discuss the new series. Gideon Raff and series stars Jason Isaacs (Awake, Harry Potter) and Anne Heche (Save Me, Hung) will join the discussion LIVE from location in Israel via satellite for an interactive Q&A. Attendees will be the first to see an exclusive preview from the new series and learn how they can #DigDeeper into the action before the series premieres this fall on USA.
11:30am – 12:30pm
How to Get News Coverage Room 8
Small press publishers: What makes the difference between an item that will get news coverage, previews, and interviews, and what doesn’t? A lot of publishers have no idea what to submit to the press, how to submit it, and why they are being overlooked for coverage. Comics journalist Rik Offenberger (First Comics News, Archie Comics) moderates this panel on just what it takes to get coverage, with the comic journalists themselves telling you what they are looking for in submissions. Panelists include (in alphabetical order) Albert Ching (Comics Book Resources), Amy Chu (DC Comics), Holly Golightly (BroadSword Comics), Glenn Hauman (Comic Mix), Rich Johnston (Bleeding Cool), Alan Kistler (The Mary Sue), Francis Sky (First Comics News), Tanya Tate (First Comics News), J. C. Vaughn (Scoop), Josh Waldrop (M1W Entertainment), and Bryan Young (Huffington Post, Big Shiny Robot). Find out what it takes to self-promote and make a significant impact on your ability to sell your comic. — Who’s that among the panelists? Alan Kistler, writer of The Mary Sue’s very own Agent of S.T.Y.L.E.?! Go to this panel and tell him Rebecca says hello.
11:30am – 12:30pm
Masters of the Web: Comic Book Movies Room 24ABC
A discussion of the state and slate of current and upcoming major comic book movies with top YouTube movie pundits, including Manu Bennett (TV’s Arrow), John Campea (AMC Movie Talk), Jeremy Jahns (YouTube film critic), Tiffany Smith (DC All Access), Kristian Harloff and Mark Ellis (Schmoes Know), and Jon Schnepp (AMC Movie Talk).
11:30am – 12:30pm
Spotlight on Bill Finger, the Co-Creator of Batman Room 4
2014 marks the 25th anniversary of the movie Batman, the 50th anniversary of Batman’s “New Look,” the 75th anniversary of Batman’s debut, and the 100th anniversary of the birth of Bill Finger, the Caped Crusader’s uncredited co-creator. Not only did Bill Finger breathe life into Batman, Robin, Alfred, Commissioner Gordon, Gotham City, and one fantastic villain after another, he co-created bat-free icons such as Green Lantern, Wildcat, and Lana Lang. Bill’s only living descendants Athena Finger (The Cape Creator: A Tribute to Bill Finger) and her son Benjamin invite you to celebrate the life and achievements of the man who first put the dark in the Dark Knight. Dr. Travis Langley (Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight) moderates a bat-tastic panel, featuring Bob Kane’s biographer Tom Andrae (Batman and Me), writer Mark Evanier (Bill Finger Awards), actress Lee Meriwether (Batman: The Movie’s Catwoman), author Marc Tyler Nobleman (Bill the Boy Wonder: The Secret Co-Creator of Batman), Cartoons Arts’ Jens Robinson (son of Joker co-creator Jerry Robinson), and executive producer Michael Uslan (Batman, The Dark Knight film trilogy), plus special messages from legends like DC’s last surviving Golden Age artist, Wildcat co-creator Irwin Hasen.
11:30am – 1:00pm
Dreamworks Animation Hall H
TBA
11:40am – 12:05pm
The Life and Death of Tommy Chaos and Stacy Danger Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
In this short action/adventure/fantasy film about a young couple on the run, dinosaurs have invaded Earth but neither Tommy nor Stacey cares anymore, now that they’ve met each other. They escape the war, but whether they dive to the bottom of the ocean or fly to Outer Space, conflict always seems to find a way into their lives. Participating panelists include Michael Lukk Litwak (writer/director/editor), Jean Claude Billmaier (producer), and Dan Romer (composer).
11:45am – 12:45pm
Halo: Nightfall: A First Look Room 6BCF
Prepare for your next step in the Halo Journey with a deep dive into Halo: Nightfall, the upcoming live-action digital series from 343 Industries and Scott Free Productions. Panelists include 343′s Kiki Wolfkill (executive producer) and Frank O’Connor (franchise development director) along with key Halo: Nightfall cast and crew. Be among the first to get the details of the story and production.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
CBLDF: Using Graphic Novels in Education Room 30CDE
Comics and graphic novels are amazing resources for inspiring a love of reading and learning among students of all ages. CBLDF experts Betsy Gomez, Meryl Jaffe, Carol Tilley, and more examine how to use comics in classrooms, and provide strategies for combating the confusion that often leads graphic novels to be targeted by censors. They’ll also offer suggestions for how to use specific comics in the classroom. Bring your challenges, questions and success stories!
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Charles Schulz and Social Commentary in Peanuts Room 25ABC
Through the unassuming medium of a daily comic strip, Charles Schulz gently communicated the social and political climate of the changing world around him. Explore the intersection of Peanuts and topical issues through the lens of today’s socially attuned humor in cartoons and television. Presentation by Corry Kanzenberg (curator, Charles M. Schulz Museum). Panel discussion and Q&A to follow with Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Family Guy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Art Roche (content director, Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates). Moderated by Tom Gammill (The Simpsons, Futurama, Seinfeld).
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Color Me RADD Room 9
We wanna color you up! You’ll never look at color comics the same way again! Oni Press editor-in-chief James Lucas Jones and rock star colorists Lee Loughridge, Ryan Hill, and some special guests discuss the role of colorists in storytelling and the processes behind their particular brands of eye-melting magic.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Comics Arts Conference Session #2: Clouds or Sunshine: Forecasting How Business and Law Will Affect Creativity in Comics Room 26AB
Law professor Marc H. Greenberg (Golden Gate University School of Law, author of Comic Art, Creativity and the Law) and business professor and futurist Rob Salkowitz (University of Washington, author of Comic-Con and the Business of Pop Culture) consider how changes such as derivative copyright law, digital delivery of comics, and transmediation will affect the creative process and the comics industry in the near and long-term future.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Editing Comics the BOOM! Way Room 28DE
BOOM! Studios creators Paul Jenkins (Fairy Quest), James Tynion IV (The Woods), Megan Hutchison (An Aurora Grimeon Story: Will O’ the Wisp), Christopher Sebela (Dead Letters), and Frank Barbiere (Black Market), along with BOOM! Studios editor-in-chief Matt Gagnon and editor Dafna Pleban, look into the editing secrets of one of the comic book industry’s leading independent publishers and discuss editing dos and don’ts.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Fairy Tale Remix Room 32AB
Toto, I’ve a feeling these aren’t your typical fairy tales…From cyborg Cinderellas to swashbuckling pirates, fairy tales are just full of possibilities for retelling and reimagining. A fantastic lineup of authors will discuss how they take well-known stories (such as Rapunzel, The Wizard of Oz, Tam Lin) and remix them for a new audience and how they create their very own fairy tales. Moderated by Shannon Hale (Ever After High series), this panel featuring Marissa Meyer (The Lunar Chronicles series), Katherine Harbour (Thorn Jack), John Peck (Charming series), Cornelia Funke (Mirrorworld series), Tony DiTerlizzi (The Search for WondLa), Ben Tripp (The Accidental Highwayman), and Danielle Page (Dorothy Must Die) will give insight to the fairy tales of old, and new!
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Meet Bill Plympton Room 23ABC
Meet Bill Plympton, “The King of Indie Animation,” and find out his plans for his new animated feature, Cheatin’. The film premiered at Slamdance in 2014 and is on the festival circuit now-find out what it took to run a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $100,000 to help finance the production of the film. Bill will screen some of his recent work, including music video The Deep End and clips from Cheatin’, and discuss his method for making hand-drawn cartoons in the new digital age. Also appearing will be Jim Lujan, who’s co-directing the upcoming animated feature Revengeance with Bill, so come and get an early look at this “biker revenge dark comedy.” Plus everyone who attends will get a free Bill Plympton drawing!
12:00pm – 1:00pm
The Pitching Hour Room 5AB
Jill Sanford (VP, Nickelodeon original series TV animation), Duncan Rouleau (executive producer, Man of Action), Kevin Burke and Chris “Doc” Wyatt (head writers, Avengers Assemble), Charlie Chu (editor, Oni Press), Lindsay Rostal (VP /producer, The Odd Gentlemen), Jennie Kong (publicist, Geek & Sundry), a surprise guest or two, and your moderator Dan Evans III (director current, Marvel TV Animation) will take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining agents, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical example and humorous stories, the process that new creators should adapt to make their way through the creative battleground of the entertainment industry. 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 Brendan McFeely (IP lawyer, Kane Kessler) to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood!
12:00pm – 1:00pm
The Smitten Word Horton Grand Theatre
Christina Lauren (Sweet Filthy Boy), Kresley Cole (Dark Skye), and Alice Clayton (Rusty Nailed) turn up the temperature at SDCC with blush-inducing readings, smutty discussion and a hilarious battle over movies, TV shows, and Hollywood’s hottest geeks.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
The Switch to Digital Room 7AB
From mail to photographs and now comics, everything is making the move to digital. Comic-Con International special guests Colleen Coover (Bandette), Batton Lash (Supernatural Law), Jeff Smith (Bone), Rina Piccolo (Tina’s Groove), and Paul Tobin (Bandette) discuss with moderator Mark Waid (Daredevil) when and why they make the switch to digital.
12:00pm – 1:00pm
When Steampunk and Pop Culture Collide Room 29A
Karen Hallion (TeeFury pop artist) joins a lively discussion regarding why Steampunk continues to invade all aspects of pop culture, along with fellow Steampunks, maker Brian Uiga (Inspector Spacetime), writer Madeleine Holly-Rosing (Boston Metaphysical Society), and costumer CJ DeAngelus. They’ll explore how Steampunk has influenced comics, television, cosplay, and pop art. Moderated by Anastasia Hunter (chair and director of programming for Gaslight Gathering).
12:05pm – 12:35pm
The Adventures of Sheriff Kid McLain Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
The town of Ferro Grande is being threatened by Dirt Man Duke and the Lightning Gang ever since the Governor’s son rolled into town. Participating panelists include Gui Pereira (director, Pizza Me Mafia), Guile Branco (producer/actor, Why We Train), and Lara Horton (producer).
12:05pm – 1:10pm
Scorpion: World Premiere Screening and Panel Ballroom 20
Discover the new CBS drama coming this fall, based on the true story of Walter O’Brien, an eccentric genius with the world’s fourth highest IQ who has created a company of brilliant misfits who use their mental muscle to defend the planet against complex high-tech threats of the modern age. In this high-octane thrill ride from the makers of Star Trek, Transformers, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, and The Fast and the Furious, O’Brien’s team uses their exceptional brainpower to solve the nation’s crises, while also helping each other learn how to fit in. The world premiere screening of the pilot episode will be followed by a panel discussion with the real-life Walter O’Brien, along with series stars Elyes Gabel (World War Z), Robert Patrick (Terminator 2), and Katharine McPhee (Smash),and executive producers Nick Santora, Nicholas Wootton, Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, and Justin Lin.
12:15pm – 1:30pm
Comic-Con How-To: Advanced Digital Inking Techniques Room 2
Learn how to digitally ink and take all your black-and-white artwork to the next level. Comics artist Brian Haberlin will delve into Photoshop’s treasure trove of features old and new-as well as features in other programs-that not only enhance comic applications, but make possible countless creative pen and ink opportunities rarely seen before. If you’re serious about your black-and-white artwork, this session is a must. Comic book creator, editor, writer, penciler, inker, and colorist Brian Haberlin is the co-creator of Witchblade, Anomaly, and many other comic books and graphic novels.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Roddenberry Entertainment Presents Room 24ABC
Trevor Roth (COO, head of development, creator of Days Missing, Worth), Tory Mell (producer, Roddenberry Entertainment), Rod Roddenberry (CEO, Roddenberry Entertainment), Chris Moreno (artist, Worth), Aubrey Sitterson (writer, Worth), and Paul Morrissey (Eisner Award-winning editor) talk about their newest graphic novel Worth, their new short film Instant, and hold an awesome iPad Mini giveaway. Moderated by Tory Mell.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Sony Pictures Entertainment Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Get your first look at two of next summer’s most anticipated films. First, Scholastic’s iconic book series Goosebumps, written by R. L. Stine, has already captured the world’s imagination-selling over 400 million books worldwide. Now it’s coming to the big screen, with Jack Black starring as the author himself and Rob Letterman directing. Jack and Rob will tell you all about how Stine’s monsters are coming to life on the big screen. The film hits theaters on August 7, 2015. Then, stay tuned as director Chris Columbus has a special video announcement about his upcoming film Pixels, starring Adam Sandler (in theaters May 15, 2015)-you’ll find out how one lucky Comic-Con badge-holder might win a chance to be a part of the movie.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
Still Pickled After All These Years Room 4
Comic-Con special guest Brian Crane discusses his 25 years of creating the Pickles comic strip, using a PowerPoint presentation. He will give a behind-the-scenes look at how he got started and how he creates his daily comic strip, which is syndicated in over 800 newspapers around the world. The presentation will be followed by a short Q&A session.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
TNT’s Legends Screening & Panel Room 6A
TNT presents an exclusive screening of the new suspense-filled drama Legends from Homeland producers Howard Gordon and Alexander Cary and Fringe co-executive producer David Wilcox, starring Sean Bean (Game of Thrones) as Martin Odum, an undercover agent working for the FBI’s Deep Cover Operations (DCO) division. Martin has the uncanny ability to transform himself into a completely different person for each job. But he begins to question his own identity when a mysterious stranger suggests that Martin isn’t the man he believes himself to be. Following the screening, stars and producers will provide fans with an exclusive sneak peek at this new series and an opportunity to hear about the exciting first season.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
What’s At Comic Shops with Previews Room 8
Before it’s at comic shops, it’s in the Previews catalog! This panel shows you how to use the Diamond Comic Distributors’ Previews catalog for preordering all of your favorite comics, graphic novels, toys, and other pop culture merchandise. Attendees will get a free copy of the August issue and have a chance to win other exciting prizes! Plus, see how Previewsworld.com interacts with the catalog to inform fans about everything they need to know to get what they want at their local comic shop. Panelists include Previews editor Marty Grosser, Previewsworld.com editor Vince Brusio, and Diamond consumer marketing manager Andy Mueller.
12:35pm – 1:00pm
Secondary Education Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
Three high school students discover that their chemistry teacher has been living a secret double life as a crime-fighting power ranger during an after-school detention, and they unwittingly become embroiled in a showdown with an escaped mutant lobster. A hybrid throwback to the educational after-school specials of the ’90s and the Japanese Tokusatsu genre. Participating panelists include Jon Truei (writer/director), Eric Lim (actor/executive producer), and Lincoln Smith (visual effects artist/executive producer).
12:45pm – 1:45pm
Behind the Scenes of Science Fiction in Movies and on TV Room 6DE
Jane Espenson (Husbands), Amy Berg (Eureka), Nicole Perlman (Guardians of the Galaxy), and Gale Anne Hurd (The Walking Dead) discuss what it’s like to create blockbuster science fiction in the media: their adventures and challenges, what’s working now, what the future will look like, and all the factors that will change how we consume our personal fandoms. Moderated by Phil Plait (Bad Astronomy Blog).
1:00pm – 1:25pm
The Proposal Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
On a first date, you always come armed. That’s what Jack and Sara discover when they decide to be deadly honest with each other to see if it’s really meant to be. Participating panelists include Geordie Sabbagh (writer/director), Jordan Gross (producer), and Master Tommy Chang (stunt coordinator and EP).
1:00pm – 1:30pm
Comics Arts Conference Session #3: British Comics, Genre, and the Special Relationship with American Comics Room 26AB
Chris Murray (University of Dundee) discusses the often-overlooked and peculiar history of British superheroes, arguing that they reflect the changing relationship between the two countries in the aftermath of World War II. Julia Round (Bournemouth University) investigates the use of gothic and horror tropes in British girls’ comics of the 1970s and 1980s, which, she argues, draw on some of the tropes of the previous generation of American horror comics. Phillip Vaughan (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design) analyses British science fiction comics in terms of the influence from American comics, and considering their relationship to British and American television and film.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
A Mercs Life For Me: What It Takes to Be a Mandalorian Room 29A
James Sebree (San Diego chapter leader), Sal Attinello (Manda’galaar), Todd Mullin (Haran’galaar Clan), and Quinn Pendleton (member approval rep.) discuss the ins and outs of the Mandalorian Mercs Costuming Club. Topics include introduction to costume construction, overview of member requirements, and getting your costume approved. Also, Loren Toy (Manda’galaar) on 3D printing for costuming, and Kristina Schlosser (Haran’galaar clan) and Erica Heinrich (Manda’galaar) on building a custom female Mandalorian.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Batman in the ’70s Room 5AB
In celebration of Batman’s 75th birthday, panelists look back at a crucial decade in the life of the Caped Crusader. It was a time of change as new writers and artists brought forth new interpretations of this classic character. On hand to discuss it are many of the those who were there: Neal Adams, Denny O’Neil, Michael Uslan, Len Wein, and Anthony Tollin, along with moderator Mark Evanier.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Breaking into Comics Right Now Room 28DE
If you’re an aspiring comic book creator, this is a panel you don’t want to miss! BOOM! Studios editor-in-chief Matt Gagnon and managing editor Bryce Carlson, along with some of the industry’s most exciting up-and-coming and established talent, including Frank Barbiere (Black Market), Chris Miskiewicz (Thomas Alsop), Palle Schmidt (Thomas Alsop), Vanesa R. Del Rey (Hit, The Empty Man), Christopher Sebela (Dead Letters), and Royden Lepp (Rust), share their breaking-in experiences and give you the most up-to-date and practical advice on how to break into the comic book industry right now.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
CBLDF: The History of the Comics Code Room 30CDE
60 years ago this month, comics were put on trial in a nationally televised Senate subcommittee hearing that had shattering repercussions for this great American artform. The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund presents the shocking history of moral panic that led to this historic hearing and the birth of the Comics Code Authority, which regulated the medium’s content for more than 50 years. CBLDF executive director Charles Brownstein tells the tale at this CBLDF presentation.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Drawing on Your Nightmares: Modern Horror in Comics Room 23ABC
Hot on the heels of the premiere of the Dark Horse comic turned television series The Strain, you are invited to explore the darker corners of comics. Horror has been one of the cornerstones of the Dark Horse publishing line for years, and 2014 will be no exception! Join panelists for an hour of all that is guaranteed to thrill and chill you, with resident horror junkies, editor-in-chief Scott Allie and PR director Jeremy Atkins, along with Eric Powell (The Goon), Mike Huddleston (The Strain), the first U.S. appearance of Colder artist Juan Ferreyra, and more for sneak peeks, announcements, and other surprises along the way!
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Evolving the League of Legends Experience Room 6BCF
The game’s always changing for League of Legends-it’s a constantly evolving universe. Whether it is adding new content, updating champions and maps, reworking gameplay, or just giving older art a fresh face, League of Legends is constantly trying to level up the quality and player experience wherever it can. Sit down with members of the art, game design, sound, and production teams as they share insights and swap stories from their time spent working on League of Legends. The panel will kick off with a discussion about current and recent releases before opening it up for Q&A.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Female Heroes, Then and Now Room 32AB
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Heartbreakers, a groundbreaking science fiction series that was one of the first action comics starring female heroes, and the only one written by a woman when it debuted in Dark Horse Presents. Today, there are more women than ever reading and creating comics-not to mention cosplaying and writing about comics-but it seems a lot of the old biases are still entrenched. What’s changed in 25 years, and what hasn’t? Join Heartbreakers creators Anina Bennett and Paul Guinan, along with friends Jimmy Palmiotti (Painkiller Jane), Kiala Kazebee (Vaginal Fantasy), Allison Baker (Monkeybrain Comics), and Claire Hummel (Bioshock: Infinite), for a lively discussion of sexism, science fiction, comic books, and geek culture.
1:00pm – 2:00pm
I Know That Voice: Insights from the Cutting Room Floor Room 25ABC
John DiMaggio (executive producer of IKTV, also the voice of Bender from Futurama, Jake The Dog from Adventure Time, IFC’s Out There, and many more) has reassembled the cast and crew of IKTV to take a deep dive into the hundreds of hours of documentary footage that didn’t make it to the big screen. Panelists Fred Tatasciore (Hulk, Ben 10, Mad), Andrea Romano (25-time Emmy nominee, 8-time Emmy winner for Animaniacs, Pinky and the Brain, and more), Rob Paulsen (Darkwing Duck, Animaniacs), Lawrence Shapiro (director, IKTV), Dee Bradley Baker (Gravity Falls, Phineas and Ferb), and Steve Broback (Tweet House, IKTV Social Team), discuss behind-the-scenes stories, techniques that voice actors use to deliver great performances, and much more!
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Marvel: House of Ideas Room 7AB
Love having the best comics in the industry on your mobile devices? Want to know how Marvel stays on the cutting edge of technology while bringing you what you love? Want to learn more about Infinite Comics? Well, this panel is for you, True Believer! Get exciting news from Ryan Penagos (executive editorial director of digital) and other guests on what’s happening with the Marvel Comics App, Marvel AR, Marvel.com, Marvel’s vast social media presence, and more in this can’t-miss panel!
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Spotlight on Colleen Coover & Paul Tobin (How to Succeed in Comics Without Ever Crying) Room 9
Comic-Con special guests Paul Tobin and Colleen Coover discuss their Eisner Award-winning digital comic Bandette, as well as such titles as Colder, I Was the Cat, Prometheus, Plants vs. Zombies, Angry Birds, Paul’s novels, and the commonsense fact that Hulk could beat Thor.
1:15pm – 2:00pm
Reign: Panel & Exclusive Sneak Preview Ballroom 20
The saga of Mary, Queen of Scots continues when Reign returns for its second season this fall. Mary and Francis will rule a nation burning with plague, famine, and religious strife. Powerful lords will rise from the ashes, fears and superstitions will take terrifying forms, marriages deemed sacred will be violated; all as Mary tries to save herself and her friends, and Francis learns his true enemy might be his own family. An exclusive sneak preview at what’s to come in season 2 will be followed by a panel discussion with the cast Adelaide Kane (Teen Wolf), Megan Follows (Anne of Green Gables) and Toby Regbo (Mr. Nobody), along with executive producer Laurie McCarthy.
1:25pm – 1:55pm
Dog Food Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
When Declan, a butcher, loses his dog and best friend Ralphie, his life starts to unravel. Participating panelists include Michael Klein (producer).
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Avatar Press: Cutting-Edge Publishing and Mega Writers Room 4
New York Times bestselling author Max Brooks (World War Z) and William Christensen (Avatar Press publisher) discuss the scoop on new projects and creators joining the Avatar Press lineup! Plus, an inside look at projects by Garth Ennis, Alan Moore, Kieron Gillen, and of course, Max Brooks. William Christensen moderates and runs the Q&A session for this event.
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Digital Manga Room 8
The staff of Digital Manga, Inc. talk about the current state of the manga industry, their partnership with Tezuka Productions, and their newest releases and tell you how you can get started working in the manga industry. A few lucky attendees will also walk away with some great prizes.
1:30pm – 2:30pm
End of Series…or Not? Room 24ABC
Waiting for the next book in your favorite series to release can be agonizing…and yet, oh so worthwhile. Whether you’ve suffered through the wait time for each installment or held out until the release of the last book to binge read, bestselling series authors succeed at keeping countless readers hooked, book after book! Join authors Laini Taylor (Dreams of Gods & Monsters/Daughter of Smoke & Bone Trilogy), Lev Grossman (The Magician’s Land/The Magicians Trilogy), Leigh Bardugo (Ruin & Rising/The Grisha Trilogy), Jonathan Maberry (Fire & Ash/Rot & Ruit Series), Ben H. Winters (World of Trouble/The Last Policeman Trilogy), Lynn Flewelling (Shards of Time/ Nightrunner Series), and Kresley Cole (Dark Skye/Immortals After Dark Series), as they chat with Maryelizabeth Hart (Mysterious Galaxy) about the trials and tribulations of plotting multinovel story arcs, keeping momentum going between books, and knowing when (if ever) to end a bestselling series.
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Science Fiction Author Cosplay Horton Grand Theatre
John Scalzi (Redshirts, Lock In) reads from his forthcoming near-future thriller, answers audience questions, and maybe even serenades them on the ukulele(!).
1:30pm – 2:30pm
The Giver Hall H
Twenty years in the making, fans of the novel can rejoice: The Giver is coming to the big screen. The Weinstein Company and Walden Media will premiere exclusive footage from the upcoming film with stars Jeff Bridges, Brenton Thwaites, Odeya Rush, director Phillip Noyce, and bestselling author Lois Lowry.
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Comedy Central: Key & Peele and Introducing Moonbeam City! Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Key & Peele stars Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, who are best known for their impressive ability for improv, celebrity impressions, and conjuring up original characters including “Obama and Luther,” “The Valet Guys,” “Mr. Garvey, the Substitute Teacher” and the players from the annual “East/West College Bowl.” Whether it’s satirizing the President, spoofing musical acts, or taking on religion, Key & Peele showcases their chemistry, camaraderie and unique point of view, born from their shared background and experiences growing up biracial in a not quite post-racial world. Join the stars of Comedy Central’s Key & Peele as they go behind the scenes, reveal details on their upcoming new season, and more! Panel to be moderated by actor and comedian, Tom Lennon. – The party continues with a FIRST EVER look at Comedy Central’s newest animated series Moonbeam City. Moonbeam City is an absurdist take on the gritty, sex-drenched crime dramas from the 1980s. The series follows undercover detective Dazzle Novak (voiced by Rob Lowe), a handsome idiot who commits more crimes than most criminals. His tyrannical chief, Pizzaz Miller (Elizabeth Banks), won’t get off his back, and hotshot rookie Rad Cunningham (Will Forte) is dying to see him fail. With the world against him, Dazzle is thrust into a living nightmare: having to do actual police work. Join series creator and executive producer, Scott Gairdner and the voice of Dazzle, Rob Lowe, as they reveal details for the first time on Comedy Central’s next big animated series! Panel to be moderated by Moonbeam City head-writer, Tommy Blacha.
1:45pm – 2:45pm
The Last Ship: Season 1 Panel Room 6A
TNT’s new action-packed drama The Last Ship-from executive producer Michael Bay-is the epic tale of the Navy captain and crew of the U.S.S. Nathan James who find themselves in the midst of a global catastrophe that nearly decimates the world’s population. Join the stars and producers as they provide details on the making of the series. In addition, fans will get to enjoy an exclusive sneak peek of the show.
1:45pm – 3:15pm
Comic-Con How-To: Gray Scale Copic Markers Room 2
Adam Hughes will use the warm and cool gray Copic markers to render the tones on a drawing. Fellow artist Allison Sohn will narrate the process while Adam draws. Hughes has been working in comics for over 25 years. Some of his work from the past year includes a story in Batman Black and White as well as the covers to the Vertigo series Fairest and the Dark Horse series Rebel Heist.
1:55pm – 3:30pm
Savageland Marriott Hall 2, Marriott Marquis & Marina
When a small town near the Arizona-Mexico border is wiped out overnight, suspicion falls on the lone survivor. But a roll of photos the survivor took that night tells a different story. Participating panelists include co-writers/producers/directors Phil Guidry, Simon Herbert, and David Whelan.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
1984′s Greatest Geek Movies: Big Brother Wasn’t The Only One Watching While Doves Cried Room 5AB
While Eurasia was still at war with Eastasia and Big Brother was watching you, some amazing movies slipped into cinemas and our panel of experts are going to wax on, wax off about the great geek year of 1984 as they look back at such films as The Terminator, Gremlins, Repo Man, Ghostbusters, Dune, Splash, This is Spinal Tap, Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom, Star Trek III, Buckaroo Banzai, Body Double, The Karate Kid, Red Dawn, Night of the Comet, Once Upon a Time in America, This is Spinal Tap, and, of course, the incomparable Purple Rain. Celebrating the fact that they still love the ’80s will be Ashley E. Miller (Thor, new Terminator TV series), David E. Williams (editor, GEEK magazine), Robert Meyer Burnett (Star Trek: The Next Generation Blu-rays), Marc Berandin (The Hollywood Reporter), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars, Transformers Prime), Joe Kraemer (Jack Reacher), and moderator Mark A. Altman (Free Enterprise, DOA: Dead or Alive). This panel is sure to get turned up to 11.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Beyond Clichés: Creating Awesome Female Characters for Film, TV, Comics, Video Games, and Novels Room 28DE
Explore the past, present, and the future of female character creation for film, TV, comics, video games, and novels and examine the traps of common tropes, clichés, and stereotypes, while discussing how content creators can create wonderful, relatable, and realistic female characters with moderator Michele Brittany (West Coast Bleeding Cool News correspondent), Neo Edmund (Red Riding-Werewolf Huntress, Kaijudo Rise of the Duel Masters), Charlotte Fullerton (My Little Pony, Ben 10 Omniverse), Clare Kramer (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Geek Nation), Marv Wolfman (Teen Titans, creator of countless comic book characters), Andrew Robinson (Kaijudo Rise of the Duel Masters, Rescue Bots), and Mairghread Scott (Transformers Prime, Rescue Bots).
2:00pm – 3:00pm
DC Digital: Download This! Room 6DE
DC Entertainment’s digital initiative has been a pioneer in digital comics. Get an exclusive look at the exciting series that make up the future of digital comics with the all-star talent behind them, including Ralph Garman (Batman ’66 Meets the Green Hornet), Marc Guggenheim (Arrow), Kyle Higgins (Batman Beyond), Kevin Smith (Batman ’66 Meets the Green Hornet), Cat Staggs (Sensation Comics), and others.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Digital Color for Comics Room 30CDE
In print or digital, comic books need color, but do you know how comic books are colored? Learn about the creative art of comic book coloring as Hi-Fi’s Brian Miller (DC’s weekly series Future’s End) and Kristy Miller (SpongeBob SquarePants) demonstrate step-by-step the transformation of a comic book page from black and white to full color. Learn the basics of flatting, rendering, color holds, and special effects, along with top digital coloring tips. Followed by Q&A session.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Image Comics: I Is For…Infinity Room 23ABC
The future of comics is bright, and Nick Dragotta (East of West), Rick Remender (Deadly Class), Richard Starkings (Elephantmen), Jason Latour (Southern Bastards), Stuart Moore (EGOs), and Ryan Burton (Dark Engine) are proof of that fact. Sci-fi, western, apocalyptic, kid-friendly. Realistic, cartoony, abstract, painterly. Anything goes in comics, and there are an infinite number of stories to tell.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Jules Feiffer Goes Noir Room 9
Oscar-Pulitzer-Eisner Hall of Fame winner Jules Feiffer turns to the noir genre with his new graphic novel Kill My Mother. Come hear a conversation with this comics pioneer who started with Will Eisner, went on to become one of the world’s most-read comic strip creators, and eventually conquered the Broadway stage and Hollywood. Now, preview his return to his first love with a daring new work that stretches his talent yet again. Questioning by comics historians Mark Evanier and Paul Levitz, as well as audience members.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Pop Culture Happy Hour Podcast Room 32AB
National Public Radio’s lively weekly podcast began in 2010, co-created by NPR Monkey See writer-editor Linda Holmes and NPR Music writer-editor Stephen Thompson. Regular panelist Glen Weldon has kept comics commentary an essential ingredient, and Stephen’s mother (and Comic-Con Toucan blogger) Maggie Thompson has appeared on the show from time to time. Maggie’s Spotlight panel introduces the PCHH team to Comic-Con for a roundtable discussion.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
The 2000 AD Zarjaz Hour Featuring Judge Dredd Room 29A
Superstar creators Jock (Batman), Chris Burnham (Batman), Henry Flint (Judge Dredd), and Michael Carroll (Jennifer Blood) are all here as the legendary British comic book kicks off San Diego with all the 2000 AD and Judge Dredd talk and games you can handle! Moderated by 2000 AD’s Michael Molcher and definitely not for Thrill-suckers!
2:00pm – 3:00pm
The Art of Big Hero Six Room 7AB
Walt Disney Animation Studios presents director Don Hall, producer Roy Conli, production designer Paul Felix and character designer Shiyoon Kim as they share the visual development of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ November 7, 2014 film, Big Hero 6. The action-packed comedy adventure tells the story of robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada, who learns to harness his genius – thanks to his brilliant brother Tadashi and their like-minded friends: adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago, neatnik Wasabi, chemistry whiz Honey Lemon and fanboy Fred. When a devastating turn of events catapults them into the midst of a dangerous plot unfolding in the streets of San Fransokyo, Hiro turns to his closest companion – a robot named Baymax – and transforms the group into a band of high-tech heroes determined to solve the mystery. Inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name.
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Wander Over Yonder Room 25ABC
Creator Craig McCracken and stars Jack McBrayer (30 Rock), April Winchell (Mickey Mouse Clubhouse), and Tom Kenny (SpongeBob SquarePants) explore the wonders of Disney XD’s newest series Wander Over Yonder. Find out what’s in store for the friendliest face in outer space with exclusive clips from upcoming episodes and an audience Q&A. The panel will also feature sneak peeks of two new animated shows coming to Disney XD!
2:15pm – 3:15pm
Blizzard Entertainment Showcase Room 6BCF
Chris Metzen (Blizzard Entertainment SVP story and franchise development) and a team of esteemed Blizzard guests reveal next year’s lineup of never-before-seen loot! Interact with designers, writers, and artists as they dig into toys, books, collectibles, and more! Panel and Q&A moderated by Kim Phan (host of DirecTV’s BlizzCon coverage).
2:15pm – 3:15pm
Greendale Forever: TV Guide Magazine’s Tribute to Community Ballroom 20
Will “six seasons and a movie” come true? Has Greendale Community College been saved? What happens next to Jeff Winger and the study group? Moderator Michael Schneider, TV Guide magazine’s executive editor, joins Community creator Dan Harmon and members of the cast and producers as they recap last season (including Dan’s heralded return to the show) and discuss what the future holds for this fan-favorite comedy.
2:30pm – 3:30pm
Comics Arts Conference Session #4: Teaching Critical Comics in an Era of Standardization and the Common Core: The Pragmatics of a Transformative Pedagogy Room 26AB
Antero Garcia (Colorado State University) and Peter Carlson (Green Dot Public Schools) provide educators with specific planning and facilitation strategies for using graphic novels and comics in the classroom to enhance student participation, academic discourse, and achievement. Rubrics, lesson plan templates, and instructional questions will be provided for attendees.
2:30pm – 3:30pm
ComiXology: Ask Me Anything Room 8
ComiXology, the revolutionary cloud-based digital comics platform, spills the beans on everything you’ve ever wanted to know about digital comics, publishing, life, and more! Learning everything from how to publish your own comic book through comiXology Submit to how to begin your own successful startup just like comiXology, from co-founders and panelists David Steinberger and John D. Roberts. Moderated by comiXology’s marketing & PR maven, Chip Mosher.
2:30pm – 3:30pm
Meet the Flintstones, Meet George Jetson: Hanna Barbera Beginnings Room 24ABC
Wouldn’t it be great to be a fly on the wall in 1963 in Hanna Barbera Studios with three men who helped make it such an essential part of cartoon history? Comic-Con special guest animator Willie Ito gathers his friends and cohorts Tony Benedict (writer, Flintstones, The Jetsons) and Jerry Eisenberg (layout artist, Flintstones, Jetsons) to discuss what made early Hanna Barbera into the powerhouse of cartoon history it became. Moderated by Leslie Combemale (film artist advocate/owner, ArtInsights Animation & Film Art Gallery).
2:30pm – 3:30pm
Spotlight on Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti Room 4
Comic-Con special guests Amanda Conner & Jimmy Palmiotti, the award-winning writers of Harley Quinn, Painkiller Jane, and owners of the multimedia company Paperfilms, sit down for a talk in an intimate, interactive panel, discussing their work and future projects inside and out of comics.
