It's a Great Day at Jeff Lewis' Office: An Advance Review of Season Four of Bravo's Flipping Out

Bravo's addictive and hysterical reality series Flipping Out returns next month with a whole new season of meltdowns, freak outs, and dirty, dirty... martinis. (Yes, martinis.)

I had the chance to watch the Season Four opener of Flipping Out a few days ago and instantly fell back in love with this series, which manages to effortlessly remain one of the most consistently funny and eye-opening reality series on television today. (That it remains off the radar of the majority of viewers is a crime against reality TV that simply cannot stand.)

Season Four finds the gang at Jeff Lewis Design grappling with some very different problems than when we last saw them. Longtime viewers will remember that Season Three of Flipping Out focused on the economic downturn and how the global financial crisis wreaked havoc with Jeff's business... and with his relationship with ex-boyfriend and business partner Ryan Brown.

Yes, the fallout from that, er, fallout resonates sharply throughout the Season Four opener and while Jeff Lewis is still at his OCD best, we also see a very different Jeff than the one we saw fall apart last season. He's more confident, a little more calm, and a hell of a lot more collected. Likely part of that has to do with the fact that Jeff Lewis Design has taken off at a meteoric rate since we last checked in with the tempestuous owner.

Things have changed, mostly for the better. Ryan is completely out of the picture (Brown doesn't appear in the credit sequence or any of the press for Season Four) and Jeff's business is booming to the point where he is now being flown on private jets, consulting on projects all over California and in New York, redoing restaurants and homes, and has more work than he knows what to do with. (He has learned one thing from Ryan, however, and that's the fact that he has to bill for his time.)

But success brings a whole new slew of issues. Namely, the fact that the employees at Jeff Lewis Design haven't quite kept up with the massive changes afoot with their business. Jenni is now only working part-time as the company's Chief Operations Officer, and seems more interested in her new boyfriend than in keeping track of client phone numbers. Executive assistant Sarah still needs some more on-the-job training. She might be family (her sister, Jeff's realtor, married Jeff's brother) but she also needs to be able to keep up with Jeff's demands and she seems... a little scattered at times. Trace is finishing up college and so is splitting his time between the office and school.

And then there's Jett, who has actually carved out quite a niche for himself as Jeff's house assistant, a role that has caused a fair bit of conflict between him and Zoila and which plays to many of his strengths, like his flair for making the pitch-perfect dirty martini for Jeff Lewis. (Yes, the measurements are exacting and precise.) While family lunches might be gone--a necessary sacrifice in the face of an expanding business--and dinner might be verboten but Jeff seems to relish the thought of plying his employees with liquor each night as he keeps them working until after 9 pm.

There's also a baby in the mix but I won't spoil who it belongs to and just what said infant is doing hanging around Jeff Lewis Design.

Ultimately, the Season Four premiere perfectly matches just what I love about this series, offering the perfect entrypoint for new viewers while continuing the misadventures of the lovable misfits that make up Jeff Lewis Design. So grab a martini, turn off the phone, and prepare to flip out yourself.



Season Four of Flipping Out launches Tuesday, August 10th at 9 pm ET/PT on Bravo.

Talk Back: USA's Covert Affairs Series Premiere

While I reviewed the 90-minute pilot for USA's newest series, Covert Affairs, yesterday, now that the series premiere has aired, I'm curious to hear what you thought of it.

What did you think of Piper Perabo and Chris Gorham? Was Anne Dudek sadly wasted in her role as Annie's clueless older sister? Did you like the relationship between the married spies played by Peter Gallagher and Kari Matchett? Did the series strike you as a tad bit too much like Alias, only without the Rambaldi devices and Jennifer Garner? (Though Perabo clearly seemed to be channeling Garner's Sydney Bristow here.)

What did you think of Covert Affairs' combination of kick-ass action and playful humor? Did you buy Auggie's role within the agency? Did you think that the set-up Danielle arranged for Annie was way too unbelievable? Was it ever even plausible that Annie was yanked from the Farm strictly for her linguistic skills?

And, most importantly, will you tune in again next week?

Talk back here.

Next week on Covert Affairs ("Walter's Walk"), Annie is forced to work on low-key cases until she is tipped off about a clandestine IRA cell operating within the US.

Channel Surfing: Laura Vandervoort to Return to Smallville, Terra Nova Comic-Con Confusion, Nikki Finke on Tilda, Doctor Who and More

Welcome to your Wednesday morning television briefing.

They have... returned? V star Laura Vandervoort will reprise her role as Kara on the CW's Smallville for the series' tenth and final season, reports Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello. But don't get too excited, Supergirl fans: Vandervoort is only expected to appear in one installment of the Warner Bros. Television-produced superhero drama, scheduled to air in October. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Just what is going on with FOX's Terra Nova at Comic-Con? After the official San Diego Comic-Con 2010 schedule was announced over the last few days, 20th Century Fox Television opted to pull the panel for its upcoming prehistoric/time-travel drama starring Jason O'Mara from the convention. "Since production on the Jason O’Mara starrer isn’t expected to start until September, the producers don’t have any footage to show the fans in San Diego," writes Entertainment Weekly's Lynette Rice. "Plus, the writers don’t want to reveal too much about the high-concept series, which Fury promises will have an 'ongoing mythology.'" [Editor: I get that there is no footage but that was always going to be the case and no one expected a screening of the pilot or, indeed, anything.] “There are a lot of surprises, a lot of reveals that come out throughout the course of season,” Fury told Entertainment Weekly. “If we talk about the more interesting aspects of the show now, we’re afraid we’ll ruin the surprise for the audience. In this case, everything is moving along steadily, the script has been well-received. We just don’t have anything to wow anyone with. It’s still in the preliminary stage, It’s a huge undertaking." Complicating things further is the fact that the panel appears to be back on the schedule, leading several to wonder whether 20th balked at the bad publicity such a move would engender among the fanbase... or it's just an error on the Comic-Con lineup. (Entertainment Weekly's Hollywood Insider, Hollywood Reporter's The Live Feed)

Deadline's Nikki Finke has offered her "first and last statement" about HBO's comedy pilot Tilda, which revolves around a Finke-like blogger who has Hollywood trembling. Writing on her own site, Finke attempted to set the record straight about her involvement with the Diane Keaton-led project, offering the following statement after closing an agreement between herself, MMC, and Watski Prods:

"I had no prior knowledge that this show was being created or put into development. I have never written about the show. I have never encouraged Deadline.com journalists to write about the show. I had no prior agreement with HBO or anyone regarding the show. I had no creative or consulting involvement with the show... I still have no creative or consulting involvement with the show nor wanted any. I still won't write about the show. And Deadline.com journalists can still write whatever they want about the show. As for all of you who've asked for a quote from me about Tilda, here it is: 'It should have been called Toldja!' (Deadline)

Doctor Who head writer/executive producer Steven Moffat has joined Twitter, where he has begun to tease details about the upcoming Doctor Who Christmas Special. "Oh, he's back behind the bow tie - and better than ever," wrote Moffat about Matt Smith returning to the set. (via Digital Spy)

Looks like Larry King's successor at CNN will be Piers Morgan, after all. The Hollywood Reporter's James Hibberd writes that Morgan is thisclose to a deal that would see him take over Larry King's timeslot on the 24-hour news cabler. "Sources caution that Morgan is still under contract and that CNN may be unable to directly negotiate with the TV personality directly," writes Hibberd. "But if a deal could be struck between CNN and NBC, that allows Morgan to take over the position. Sources say the proposed deal allows for Morgan to remain as a judge on [America's] Got Talent, with the CNN talk show in second position for his schedule." (Hollywood Reporter)

Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello is reporting that Josh Stewart (Dirt) has been cast in ABC's upcoming family superhero drama No Ordinary Family in a recurring capacity as the mentor for Michael Chiklis' character. Series launches September 28th. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

BBC Two's reality series The Restaurant, which aired Stateside on BBC America as Last Restaurant Standing, will not be returning for a fourth season, according to the BBC. "The time is right for The Restaurant to close its doors after three successful series." Raymond Blanc is said to be in talks with Auntie about a new season of Kitchen Secrets and other potential projects. (BBC)

TV Guide Magazine's Will Keck is reporting several series are looking for new characters, including FOX's Glee, which is going to add a jock named Sam to the mix (who *could* be a potential love interest for Kurt), Starz's Torchwood is looking to add a series regular and two recurring characters, including the following: "Rex Matheson is a white, twenty-something CIA agent who sounds sort of like... [FX's] animated Archer spy: a fearless, cocky thrill seeker. Recurring characters include Esther Katusi, a newbie Watch Analyst in the CIA who is deeply (and secretly) in love with Rex. And Oswald Jones is the dangerous psychotic villain. He's a forty-something murderer and pedophile who gets sprung from the slammer into the spotlight." (TV Guide Magazine)

Fox Television Studios has signed a rare overall deal with White Collar creator Jeff Eastin which will keep him aboard White Collar and allow for future development of new projects for the studio. (Deal is similar to that held between FTVS and Burn Notice creator Matt Nix.) "Once the dust settles, I'll dig out the ideas book and see if something else lends itself to a TV show," Eastin told Variety. "It's about finding something else I'm passionate about. I appreciate Fox TV Studios for having faith in me to make a deal. Especially as they're few and far between these days." (Variety)

MTV is shoring up the writing staff for the upcoming US adaptation of UK teen drama Skins, hiring Mark Hammer, Matt Pelfrey, and Monica Padrick, who will join the writing staff of the series, expected to launch early next year. (Hollywood Reporter)

ABC Studios has signed a one-year overall deal with Ghost Whisperer executive producers Kim Moses and Ian Sander. The duo currently have to supernatural-themed projects in development at ABC, including reality series Ghost Town and drama Ghost World, from writer Dana Stevens, about "a ghost on the other side who helps an ambitious young female homicide detective solve crimes in the hopes of uncovering clues to his own life and death and centers on the mysterious, intense and sometimes infuriating connection the two feel toward each other." (Deadline)

Maxine Peake (Criminal Justice), Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks), Natalie Dormer (The Tudors), Tom Hughes (Sex, Drugs And Rock And Roll) and Neil Stuke (Reggie Perrin) have been cast in legal drama series Silk, from writer Peter Moffat (Criminal Justice), which will revolve around "lives, loves and hard cases facing barristers on the front line of criminal law." (Silk, of course, referring to the robes worn by Queen's Counsel members, the highest-level barristers in the UK.) "Bafta-winning writer Peter Moffat marks his return to BBC One with a brilliant new legal drama series, which takes a modern look at the genre," said BBC Controller of Drama Commissioning Ben Stephenson. "Maxine Peake and Rupert Penry-Jones lead an incredible cast and star as ambitious barristers competing for much coveted Silk." (BBC)

VH1 has ordered eight episodes of an untitled docusoap that will follow Mario Lopez and his girlfriend Courtney Mazza as they await the birth of their child. Project, executive produced by Cris Abrego, Mark Schulman, Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes, Kristen Kelly, and Lopez, is expected to launch this fall. (Hollywood Reporter)

Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) has been cast as the lead of an upcoming Lifetime telepic Taken From Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story, in which she'll play a woman who underwent a daring rescue mission to locate and free her seven-year-old son Kobe, who was seized by her ex-husband during a custody battle and taken to South Korea. (Deadline)

From weird to weirder: former Monkees star Mickey Dolenz has signed on to star opposite Debbie Gibson and Tiffany in Syfy's upcoming telepic Mega Python vs. Gatoroid. [Editor: I did warn you it would be weird.] (Hollywood Reporter)

Stay tuned.

From One Prison to Another: An Advance Look at the Second Season of USA's White Collar

USA's slick and stylish crime procedural White Collar returns tonight with an installment that points towards a new direction for the agents of the White Collar Crimes Division of the Manhattan branch of the FBI... and for charismatic consultant Neal Caffrey (Matthew Bomer), the reformed thief/forger at the heart of the series.

One of the strengths of White Collar has been the unerring chemistry between series leads Bomer and Tim DeKay, who plays Neal's partner/handler/jailer Peter Burke, the "suit." Despite the circumstances that Neal finds himself in when the second season begins with tonight's season opener ("Withdrawal"), that relationship remains exceedingly strong.

Which is a good thing as there are some new challenges facing Neal and Peter, most notably the mystery surrounding the death of Neal's lost love Kate and the whereabouts of that all-important amber music box, the latter of which might just surprise you. But for the moment, the dynamic duo have their hands full in the season opener with a series of bank heists and a master criminal who might just be slippery enough to evade the unorthodox methods employed by Neal and Peter... and an oily politician running a straw donor scam in the second episode.

And then there's the matter of OPR and the shifty Agent Fowler, who was willing to draw his firearm on Marsha Thomason's Diana in order to prevent her from learning about a meeting going down last season. A meeting that--SPOILER!--thanks to a judicious time jump is actually going down in the second episode back ("Need to Know") rather than later in the season.

It's in this respect that creator Jeff Eastin and his team have done a phenomenal job at balancing the procedural elements of White Collar--the capers or cases of the week--with the overarching mythology involving the doomed romance between Neal and Kate, the music box, Fowler and OPR, and some new elements that creep their way into the second season.

While I was less than pleased with the performance given by Alexandra Daddario as Neal's ex-girlfriend Kate Moreau, her death at the end of the first season has given Neal Caffrey an additional patina of loss and tragedy which, while they don't rob him of his trademark throwback style, give him some layering to his character. While in Season One, he was trying to find Kate and expose a conspiracy, her death in the season finale (and his near-death) have forced Neal into an even more pro-active position. He's now a man on a quest of vengeance, filled with a desire to right the wrongs perpetrated against him while donning an off-kilter fedora and killer Devore suit.

Which isn't to say that the season opener is a downer, because it's absolutely not. Look for some fantastically funny exchanges between Peter and Willie Garson's Mozzie as the two form an awkward rapport that's based more on old spy movie stereotypes than any real friendship. I'm chuffed that the writers are bringing Mozzie further into the center of the series, rather than leave him drifting in and out of the shadows on the periphery. His involvement here creates not only humor but an unpredictable vibe that's infectious... and lets the always sensational Garson do his thing more often.

Meanwhile, I'm thrilled that Marsha Thomason is back as Special Agent Diana Lancing, here back as a series regular after returning for the final few episodes of the freshman season. Thomason adds a nice bit of grit to the already well-tuned machine that is White Collar, bringing a smoky-voiced sensuality and hard-edged charm to the proceedings. While Natalie Morales' Lauren Cruz filled the role of junior agent, I think it will be interesting to see Peter work with someone he shares a past with as well as a deep, unwavering trust.

Ultimately, the start of second season of White Collar proves that the first season of the g-men and grifters drama was no mere fluke, offering a charming and fun weekly escape that's equal parts chasing crooks and looking cool and a throwback to such classic capers as To Catch a Thief. Throw in a love interest for Neal who is just as engaging and mercurial as he is and tighten the weekly crime plots into slightly more taut puzzles and you have the makings of a pitch-perfect series. So steal yourself an hour every Tuesday evening and be sure to tune in all summer long.

Season Two of White Collar begins tonight at 9 pm ET/PT on USA.

FOX Announces Fall Premiere Dates

FOX today announced the launch dates for its new and returning series this fall.

House and Lone Star will be the first two scripted series to launch on the network this autumn, with their respective seasons kicking off on Monday, September 20th. The following night brings the second season premiere of Glee and the launches of new comedies Raising Hope and Running Wilde on Tuesday.

Hell's Kitchen takes over the two-hour block on Wednesdays, beginning September 22nd and Bones and Fringe return Thursday, September 24th, followed the next night with Human Target and The Good Guys.

The full press release from FOX can be found below.

FOX ANNOUNCES FALL PREMIERE DATES
FOR THE 2010-2011 SEASON

NEW DRAMA “LONE STAR” DEBUTS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

NEW COMEDIES “RAISING HOPE” AND “RUNNING WILDE” TO PREMIERE
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Award-Winning Drama HOUSE Checks In Monday, September 20;
GLEE Begins Sophomore Season Tuesday, September 21;
Gordon Ramsay Serves Up New Season of HELL’S KITCHEN
Wednesday, September 22;
BONES and FRINGE Return to Thrill Thursday, September 23;
HUMAN TARGET and THE GOOD GUYS Premiere Friday, September 24;
ANIMATION DOMINATION Kicks Off Sunday, September 26

FOX has set the fall premiere dates for its new and returning series. The 2010-2011 season on FOX will kick off with a special premiere week beginning Monday, Sept. 20. HOUSE and the Princeton Plainsboro team return for a seventh season Monday, Sept. 20 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) followed by the series premiere of the sophisticated and provocative drama LONE STAR (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). This fall, Tuesdays feature a night of pitch-perfect comedy beginning Sept. 21 with the highly anticipated return of GLEE (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and the series premieres of new family comedy RAISING HOPE (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) and new romantic comedy RUNNING WILDE (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) starring Will Arnett and Keri Russell. On Wednesday, Sept. 22, things heat up for Gordon Ramsay in the two-hour premiere of the eighth season of HELL’S KITCHEN (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). The thrill is on Thursdays when BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and FRINGE (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) return beginning Sept. 23.

Action-packed weekends kick off Fridays with the return of HUMAN TARGET (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and the time period premiere of THE GOOD GUYS (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on Sept. 24. Saturdays are still the most arresting night of television with the season premieres of COPS (8:00-8:30 and 8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) – celebrating its milestone 800th episode – and AMERICA’S MOST WANTED (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on Sept. 11. Sundays are side-splittingly funny when ANIMATION DOMINATION makes its return Sept. 26 with the season premieres of THE SIMPSONS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT), THE CLEVELAND SHOW (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) and a one-hour special installment of FAMILY GUY (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). AMERICAN DAD will mark its milestone 100th episode with its season premiere Sunday, Oct. 3 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT). In addition, LIE TO ME continues to reveal the truth Wednesday, Nov. 10 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT).

Premieres of new and returning series are listed below in chronological order.

Saturday, Sept. 11
8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT COPS (Season Premiere, 800th Episode)
8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT COPS (Encore Episode)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT AMERICA’S MOST WANTED (Season Premiere)

Monday, Sept. 20
8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT HOUSE (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT LONE STAR (Series Premiere)

Tuesday, Sept. 21
8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT GLEE (Season Premiere)
9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT RAISING HOPE (Series Premiere)
9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT RUNNING WILDE (Series Premiere)

Wednesday, Sept. 22
8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT HELL’S KITCHEN (2-Hour Season Premiere)

Thursday, Sept. 23
8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT BONES (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT FRINGE (Season Premiere)

Friday, Sept. 24
8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT HUMAN TARGET (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT THE GOOD GUYS (Fall Premiere)

Saturday, Sept. 25
8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT COPS (All-New Episode)
8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT COPS (Encore Episode)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT AMERICA’S MOST WANTED (All-New Episode)
11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT LONE STAR (Encore Episode, Time Period Premiere)
Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT RUNNING WILDE (Encore Episode, Time Period Premiere)

Sunday, Sept. 26
8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT THE SIMPSONS (Season Premiere)
8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT THE CLEVELAND SHOW (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT FAMILY GUY (1-Hour Season Premiere)

Sunday, Oct. 3
8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT THE SIMPSONS (All-New Episode)
8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT THE CLEVELAND SHOW (All-New Episode)
9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT FAMILY GUY (All-New Episode)
9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT AMERICAN DAD (Season Premiere, 100th Episode)

Wednesday, Nov. 10
8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT LIE TO ME (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT HELL’S KITCHEN (Time Period Premiere)

A Neighborhood of Voluntary Spies: An Advance Review of the Series Premiere of USA's Covert Affairs

USA has been on a winning streak with lightweight, middle-of-the-road dramedies, so there's no reason the cabler should give up on a formula that's clearly working, even when the series in question revolves around the intelligence forces in a post-9/11 world.

The cabler's newest addition to its stable of breezy dramas is Covert Affairs, which launches tonight with a 90-minute pilot that introduces CIA trainee Annie Walker (Coyote Ugly's Piper Perabo) as it pushes her right onto the front lines of the spy game.

Created by Matt Corman and Chris Ord, Covert Affairs seems from the very first few minutes to walk to walk in the stylish stilettos of ABC's Alias, giving Perabo's Annie a series of dangerous missions, a lukewarm cover story, and a sister (House and Big Love's Anne Dudek, wasted here) that she has to lie to in order to keep her safe.

But while Alias focused on an increasingly intricate overarching mythology, Covert Affairs wants to push in the opposite direction, ditching Rambaldi for run-of-the-mill procedural elements and giving Annie a haunted love life with a man who is definitely more than what he appears to be. There's also a lot more heavy-handed humor here, which will either make you beam with satisfaction or make you concerned about the safety of our country, given the setting.

In case you didn't already get the gist of the plot, here's the quick version: Annie Walker is a polyglot CIA trainee who is whisked out of basic training and thrust into a full flown assignment where she's required to speak Russian, wear a tight dress, and pretend to be a Washington call girl. She's assisted in her new gig by Auggie, the aforementioned blind CIA operative, with whom she shares some banter and a few drinks before the end of the episode.

Covert Affairs is a nice change of pace for USA in that it's more female-centric than any of the other USA series (other than, of course, In Plain Sight) and I think there's a nice chemistry between Perabo and Christopher Gorham, who plays blind CIA analyst Auggie Anderson. But Perabo at times seemed to be channeling Jennifer Garner in Alias, right down to the knowing and lippy pout, and I want to see her a little more at ease within the role.

I also had a difficult time believing certain aspects of the series, namely the fact that Auggie would be placed in such a visually-demanding position. Can he really use the braille-based computer system that quickly to source data? Isn't he at a severe disadvantage that he can't actually see the data on-screen? And might that not prove to be a liability at some point? I'm all for supporting the Americans with Disabilities Act but this seemed to me a bit of stretch too far. Surely, Auggie's skills could have come in handy elsewhere within the agency other than at a computer array?

As I mentioned earlier, while I adore Anne Dudek, the sister/family element of Covert Affairs felt grafted on and a bit tired to me. Every spy show tries to create this shroud of normalcy for the characters but it just felt too convenient and trite here... and likely to get very old, very fast. (Remember how painful the Will and Francie subplots got in the early seasons of Alias? Or how Francie was left with nothing to do except whine about opening her restaurant?)

Likewise, I didn't buy that Perabo's Annie--gorgeous, smart, and vivacious--would need to be fixed up by her sister Danielle in the pilot episode... or with such an obvious dud. (Had the guy been more stereotypically attractive, I would have maybe bought this a bit more easily.) There's a clear disconnect here between the way the audience perceives Perabo's character and the way that Danielle does in ways that go beyond the truth of her profession. (Danielle believes that she works at the Smithsonian but even that doesn't excuse the awfulness of her forced hook-up.)

However, I will say that I loved Peter Gallagher and Kari Matchett as sparring CIA spouses Arthur and Joan Campbell, and I hope that subsequent episodes continue to mine their relationship as a potential cautionary tale for Annie. While I have to question some of Joan's ensemble choices given her line of work (and the fact that she seems to require being perceived as a steely force to be reckoned with), I thought it an interesting angle to have the master spy succumb to feelings of jealousy and paranoia while it's Arthur himself who seems to either be very good at keeping secrets (a professional duty, after all) or is just absolutely cool as a cucumber (ditto). I'm hoping that subsequent episodes will focus more on their marriage and its inherent issues of trust and fidelity when two spies are married to both each other and their jobs.

Additionally, I'm intrigued by Eion Bailey's Ben Mercer and love that that's why Annie was pulled out of training at the Farm early in the first place... and I hope this develops into a full-blown serialized arc for the season. It more than likely will, given the clandestine string-pulling that got Annie transferred in the first place.

Before making up my mind definitively on Covert Affairs, I would be curious to see a second episode in order to determine whether there is more of a balance between the funny and the gritty, a hard line to walk in an espionage show where the protagonist is meant to be on the front line of national defense. Ultimately, I don't want Annie to be tortured or grim (or whip out a pink wig), but I also want to see her a little more centered and mature. If Covert Affairs wants to thrive, both Annie and the series itself could stand to grow up a little.

Covert Affairs premieres tonight at 10 pm ET/PT on USA.

Channel Surfing: Melina Kanakaredes Leaves CSI: NY, Game of Thrones Lands Aidan Gillen, Peter Weller Joins Dexter, True Blood, and More

Welcome to your Tuesday morning television briefing.

Another one bites the dust: Melina Kanakaredes is the latest star to leave their CBS drama series, following in the footsteps of A.J. Cook, Eddie Cibrian, and Liz Vassey. Kanakaredes, who has starred on CBS' CSI: NY for six seasons, has announced that she will not be returning for a seventh go-around as Detective Stella Bonasera. "We hoped Melina would return to CSI: NY for another season, but we respect her decision to move on," said CBS Television Network and CBS Television Studios in a joint statement released yesterday. "Her amazing talent and invaluable contribution to the success of the series are greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. She will forever remain a friend to the network and studio and we wish her the very best." (E! Online's Watch with Kristin)

Meanwhile, yesterday's rumor appears now to be a fact: Sela Ward is joining CSI: NY, following Kanakaredes' departure. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Aidan Gillen (The Wire) has signed on as a series regular for HBO's upcoming George R.R. Martin drama series Game of Thrones, where he will play Littlefinger, described as a scheming "adviser to King Robert who manipulates those in power to fit his own agenda." Production on Game of Thrones is set to begin later this month in Northern Ireland, with a launch expected in the first half of 2011. (Hollywood Reporter)

Deadline's Nellie Andreeva is reporting that Peter Weller (Robocop) has been cast in Season Five of Showtime's Dexter, where he is slated to appear in eight out of the twelve installments as "a troubled Miami Metro police officer who gets caught up in an internal affairs investigation." Season Five is set to premiere September 26th on Showtime. (Deadline)

MAJOR SPOILER! TV Guide Magazine's Will Keck is reporting that a panther will be appearing on the set of HBO's vampire drama True Blood, fueling speculation that Jason Stackhouse could be transforming into a werepanther at some point this season. "I've been working with the panthers and they're a lot cooler than the wolves," True Blood creator Alan Ball told Keck. "We have shot some scenes with actual panthers in the same way we have shot with actual wolves. But I won't say there are or aren't werepanthers on the show." [Editor: the reveal of the panther would fall in line with what Ball told me a while back for my True Blood set visit and feature for The Daily Beast: that someone's love interest this season is secretly a were. Hmmm...] (TV Guide Magazine)

SPOILER! Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello has some major dirt on a huge plot twist planned in the "game-changing" second season opener of CBS' The Good Wife, as the series' law firm, Lockhart & Gardener "will be in the midst of merging with another firm," according to Ausiello. "Everyone [will be thrown] for a loop,” Good Wife executive producer Robert King told Ausiello, “[especially partners] Will [Josh Charles] and Diane [Christine Baranski]. And Alicia [Julianna Margulies], who thought she was [in the clear], once again has to prove herself in new surroundings." (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

MAJOR SPOILER! TV Guide Magazine's Will Keck reports that Booth and Brennan will finally get to close the book on the murderous Gravedigger, Heather Taffet (Deirdre Lovejoy), this season on FOX's Bones... but the same episode that features Heather's final appearance will introduce a new nemesis for the team who creator Hart Hanson said is "someone much worse, who will dog us for the season." What else did Keck manage to get out of Hanson about this new big bad? ""It's someone highly motivated to do great harm to our people — a personal vendetta," said Hanson. "One of our characters will be a victim." (TV Guide Magazine)

Not only did TVGuide.com's Denise Martin moderate last night's Glee event at the Paley Center but she also has an exclusive interview with co-creator Ryan Murphy about the second season of the musical-comedy in which he confirms that the upcoming Britney Spears tribute episode will in fact revolve around Heather Morris' addled cheerleader Brittany, who will sing two of the pop singer's songs. (TVGuide.com)

Fancast's Matt Mitovich is reporting that former Melrose Place star Shaun Sipos is joining the cast of the CW's Life Unexpected, where he will recur as Eric, a new teacher at the high school where Lux attends. (Fancast)

Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello and Andy Patrick are reporting that Arielle Kebbel (Gilmore Girls) and Amy Price-Francis (The Cleaner) have joined the cast of the CW's Life Unexpected, where they will play respectively Paige, described as "the new hottie in town who may well wind up tending more than bar for Baze (Kristoffer Polaha)," and Kelly, described as "a conservative author/chatterbox who becomes a partner on the radio show that Cate (Shiri Appleby) and Ryan (Kerr Smith) front." (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

File this under random recastings: Timm Sharp ('Til Death) has been cast in HBO comedy series Enlightened, where he will play the new boss of Laura Dern's formerly self-destructive character who returns to work after a spectacular meltdown. Sharp replaces Mos Def, who exited the series due to "deal issues," according to Deadline's Nellie Andreeva. Production began yesterday on the project, from executive producers Dern and Mike White. (Deadline)

The title for the season opener of ABC's Grey's Anatomy? “With You I’m Born Again," according to Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

In a move that will surprise absolutely no one, ABC has renewed its Canadian summer drama series Rookie Blue for a second season. (Hollywood Reporter)

Among the actors lending their voices to Adult Swim's Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode III: Zac Efron, Donald Glover (Community), and Mike Henry (The Cleveland Show), who will join an already burgeoning voice cast that includes Seth Green, Matthew Senreich, Breckin Meyer, Seth MacFarlane, Dan Milano, Abraham Benrubi, Donald Faison, Rachael Leigh Cook, Adrianne Palicki, Eden Espinosa, Hugh Davidson, Bob Bergen, Keith Ferguson, Tom Kane, Zeb Wells, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and Ahmed Best. The special will air December 12th. (Variety)

Reveille and Jack Black's shingle Electric Dynamite Prods. have jointly optioned the rights to A.J. Jacob's non-fiction book "My Life As An Experiment," with the aim to adapt the work as a half-hour comedy series. (Deadline)

Joe Jonas will guest star on TV Land's Hot in Cleveland, where he will play the son of Valerie Bertinelli's character. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Sony Pictures Television has promoted James Canniffe to SVP of US alternative development. He will report to Holly Jacobs. (Variety)

Stay tuned.

Showtime Announces Launch Dates for Shameless, Episodes and Californication

Showtime today announced launch dates for its two newest series Shameless, Episodes and the return of Californication.

The absolutely fantastic US adaptation of British drama series Shameless will kick off on Sunday, January 9th at 10 pm ET/PT.

The following evening, Showtime will launch the fourth season of Californication at 10 pm ET/PT, immediately followed by the launch of the Matt LeBlanc-led comedy series Episodes.

Here's how Showtime is positioning these two new series:

SHAMELESS, a new drama series from John Wells (“ER,” “The West Wing,” “Southland”) and Paul Abbott (“State of Play,” “Touching Evil”) is based on the long-running hit UK series and stars Emmy® Award winner and Oscar® nominee William H. Macy (Fargo, Pleasantville, The Cooler) and Emmy Rossum (The Phantom of the Opera, Mystic River). Macy plays a far-from-stellar working class patriarch of an unconventional Chicago brood of six motley kids (headed by eldest sibling Rossum) who keep the home afloat while he’s out drinking and carousing. SHAMELESS is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with John Wells Productions and Warner Bros. Television. Wells and Abbott are executive producers; Andrew Stearn (“The West Wing,” “Southland”) is co-executive producer.

New comedy series EPISODES stars Matt LeBlanc (“Friends”) and is executive produced and created by David Crane (“Friends”, “The Class”) and Jeffrey Klarik (“The Class”, “Mad About You”). The series focuses on a British couple whose hit, erudite UK show is turned into an Americanized sitcom starring LeBlanc (as himself). Jimmy Mulville executive produces through his successful Hat Trick production company ("Whose Line Is It Anyway?," "Worst Week"). EPISODES is a co-production of SHOWTIME and the BBC.

The full press release from Showtime can be found below.

SHOWTIME ANNOUNCES JANUARY PREMIERE SCHEDULE
 SHAMELESS, EPISODES & CALIFORNICATION Kick off 2011
 
LOS ANGELES, CA – (July 12, 2010) – SHOWTIME® will bring in the New Year in a most spectacular way with the premieres of new drama series SHAMELESS (Jan. 9th at 10pm) with William H. Macy and Emmy Rossum; new comedy series EPISODES starring Matt LeBlanc (Jan. 10th at 10:30pm); and the fourth season premiere of the hit comedy series CALIFORNICATION starring David Duchovny (Jan. 10 th at 10pm).
 
SHAMELESS, a new drama series from John Wells (“ER,” “The West Wing,” “Southland”) and Paul Abbott (“State of Play,” “Touching Evil”) is based on the long-running hit UK series and stars Emmy® Award winner and Oscar® nominee William H. Macy (Fargo, Pleasantville, The Cooler) and Emmy Rossum (The Phantom of the Opera, Mystic River). Macy plays a far-from-stellar working class patriarch of an unconventional Chicago brood of six motley kids (headed by eldest sibling Rossum) who keep the home afloat while he’s out drinking and carousing. SHAMELESS is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with John Wells Productions and Warner Bros. Television. Wells and Abbott are executive producers; Andrew Stearn (“The West Wing,” “Southland”) is co-executive producer.
  
New comedy series EPISODES stars Matt LeBlanc (“Friends”) and is executive produced and created by David Crane (“Friends”, “The Class”) and Jeffrey Klarik (“The Class”, “Mad About You”). The series focuses on a British couple whose hit, erudite UK show is turned into an Americanized sitcom starring LeBlanc (as himself). Jimmy Mulville executive produces through his successful Hat Trick production company ("Whose Line Is It Anyway?," "Worst Week"). EPISODES is a co-production of SHOWTIME and the BBC.
 
Finally, SHOWTIME will premiere the fourth season of hit comedy series CALIFORNICATION, starring David Duchovny in his Golden Globe®-winning role as hedonistic novelist Hank Moody who struggles to raise his teenage daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin), with on-again, off-again girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone). This season, Hank will have to deal with the fall-out from his one-night stand with then-underage pseudo step-daughter Mia (Madeline Zima) going public. His epic legal troubles force him to enlist the aid of hot, high-powered defense attorney Abby (Carla Gugino) to keep him out of the big house. Rob Lowe (“Parks & Recreation”) special guest stars. Guest stars include  Michael Ealy (“Flash Forward”), Zoe Kravitz (“Twelve”) Stephen Tobolowsky (“Glee”), Callie Thorne (“Rescue Me”), Addison Timlin (“Cashmere Mafia”) and rocker Tommy Lee. Duchovny executive produces alongside creator and EP Tom Kapinos.
 
Premiere Schedule is as follows:
 
Sunday, January 9th
SHAMELESS (10pm)
 
Monday, January 10th
CALIFORNICATION (10pm)
EPISODES (10:30pm)
 
All times Eastern/Pacific

Fear Makes The Wolf Bigger Than He Is: Nine Crimes on True Blood

"Appetite, a universal wolf.” - William Shakespeare

HBO's seductive vampire drama True Blood has often placed a certain emphasis on the hungers of its characters, both human and otherwise. But last night's riveting installment ("9 Crimes"), written by Kate Barnow and Elisabeth R. Finch and directed by David Petrarca, brought this underlying theme directly to the surface, exploring the way that bloodlust--in its many forms--make the characters tick and offering up a compendium of crimes, from murder and kidnapping to treason and falsifying evidence, that swirl around the denizens of Bon Temps like so much cigar smoke.

The episode also featured some very warped looks at the way that certain relationships can go off the rails, whether it was the painful breakup between Bill and Sookie (which we'll discuss at length in a bit) or the unrequited love that Alcide has for his ex-girlfriend Debbie Pelt. Not to mention the severely creepy obsession that Franklin is harboring for poor Tara, whom this week he not only tied to a toilet and gagged but then brought her across state lines with a bouquet of flowers duct-taped to her hands.

That's one series of images, coming on the heels as it does of the last episode's, uh, twisted sex scene, that I can't scrub from my mind quite yet.

So what did I think of this week's episode of True Blood? Warm up a B-positive Tru Blood and let's discuss "9 Crimes."

I wondered just how the writers of True Blood would be able to top the insanely horrific sex scene between Bill and Lorena from two weeks ago and rather than attempt to go over the top, the writers focused on the lengths that people go in the name of love. It's in that vein that Bill attempts to kill any vestiges of feeling he has for Sookie Stackhouse in an effort to cast himself further into a bleak nighttime of the soul and keep his would-be fiancee safe from harm. While it breaks Sookie's heart to hear Bill call off their relationship (and twist the knife even further as he admits that he had sex with Lorena), his efforts are rooted in a desire to protect Sookie and keep her out of Russell's clutches.

But while Bill schemes to protect Sookie--even at the cost of his own humanity--Russell has plans of his own as his man in Bon Temps, vampire investigator Franklin Mott uses Tara to learn more about Bill and about Sookie. While he's desperate to locate Sookie (even taking control of Tara's dispossessed voice to entrap her best friend), he's also searching for knowledge. Just what is the relationship between Bill and Sookie? Does Sookie's brother Jason share her telepathic abilities? Hmmm... Then there's the matter of that dossier secreted in Bill's things that was tracing Sookie's ancestry and family tree. Could it be that the true target is Sookie herself? Hmmm...

I loved the fact that Bill chose the saddest looking girl at the strip club to "procure" as Russell and Lorena's dinner that evening. (And I loved the reveal that Bill was in fact employed as a procurer for Sophie-Anne in the first place and was "on a break" while in Bon Temps.) It was telling that he sought out the one woman who had given up not only on life but on love as well, seeing it as an eternal hell from which she could not escape. Is his offering of her body to Russell and Lorena a fitting gift then? A mercy for a lost soul like his own, someone who had cast off their own humanity just as he had? Still, it's telling that the woman doesn't go quietly into the good night; she screams with all of her heart, not wanting to die.

While Bill attempts to erase Sookie from his heart, he finds that that's not as easy as he thought it would be. The fact that he twinges when he senses Sookie is in danger--and very nearby--reveals the true depths of his feelings for the telepathic waitress. He might be willing to break her heart or make her believe him to be some villain but his every instinct is still to race to Sookie's aid. But in this situation, with Russell and Lorena watching his every move, he has to put his head in front of his heart.

Sookie, meanwhile, isn't likely to do the same. She's compelled--even after being emotionally gutted by Bill's over-the-phone break-up--to find her former lover, even at the cost of her own life. To that end, she's willing to take all number of risks in search of Bill Compton, putting herself into a literal wolves' den in order to gain further intelligence about Bill's whereabouts. (She's ably assisted by Alcide's sister, who gives the small town girl one hell of a black-hued makeover into tough-as-nails were chick.)

(Aside: I'm loving the fact that the writer are very wisely playing to Anna Paquin's comedic skills. Once again this week, Sookie had a handful of corkers. It's refreshing to see her toss out some hysterical lines rather than play the straight man here.)

Fortunately, Sookie has a reluctant ally in werewolf Alcide, who has his own heartbreak to contend with: namely, one Debbie Pelt. Debbie is Alcide's ex-girlfriend, who not only walked off with his cookware but also his heart. She has shacked up with Coot, the leader of the Eff You Crew, a V-drinking were crew with ties to a centuries-old werewolf cult who has ties to, well, Russell Edgington.

Russell. We knew that Russell had a relationship with the werewolves and employed them for some of his, er, dirtier tasks, such as kidnapping Bill and bringing him to Mississippi. And we suspected that he was the "leader" that Eric and Godric were searching for in World War II. Russell, it seems, pays his followers in vampire blood (his own, in fact) and has been using this branded wolves as mercenary followers for quite a long time, breaking all manner of vampire law in order to... Well, that's not quite clear yet. What is clear is that Russell is as bad as they come and he seems to want to overthrow the vampire monarchy and take over the world. He'll willing to use whatever draconian measures necessary to this end... and now he has Bill in his grasp.

Not good.

But then again, neither is the fact that Sookie is alone in a club filled with werewolves who are forced en masse to shift into the wolf form. Not a good place to be, particularly when those weres have feasted on 2,800-year-old vampire blood.

Eric. I have to say that I'm loving the fact that we're seeing some very different sides to Eric Northman this season, between the quick-witted rapport he shares with Lafayette (and the way he swooped down from the sky to save our favorite short-order cook... and later took off via Lafayette's car window) and the protectiveness he evidenced when he came up on his child Pam being tortured by the sadistic magister.

But there was also that romantic (and provocative) dream he had of Sookie, in which he appeared outside her window in Mississippi and then noticed the saltwater scent of his skin and admitted that she could "smell his memories," conjuring up a vision of a human Eric as a child playing in the North Sea. It was a tiny moment that peeled back the layers of the vampire sheriff to reveal that a heart still beats underneath his cold skin. His dream of claiming Sookie wasn't rendered in blood but in an emotionally resonant context, one that connected his humanity to hers. (It was really a beautiful moment in an episode that was largely about the way that desire twists us around.)

I'm worried, however, about the fact that Pam and Eric have attempted to mislead the magister about the identity of just who is behind the v-supply. While Pam acted out of horror at the thought of a true death, it's Eric who goes along with her hastily concocted plan, concurring that it was Bill Compton who framed them. While it keeps the magister from staking Pam right there, it gives them precious little time to find a solution... though the duo did manage to maintain their fealty to their queen and didn't sell out Sophie-Anne. Hopefully, she sees it that way. (Bill, meanwhile, has already told Russell about the v-trade and Sophie-Anne's financial needs in the face of the Great Revelation.)

Tara. The walls are closing in for every one, even as Franklin makes his way back to Mississippi with poor Tara in his clutches. I'm extremely concerned for Tara both in a mortal sense--Franklin sinking his fangs into her neck made me tense up--but also as a character. She's been victimized so very much the past three seasons and gone to some very dark places. That she'd now be kidnapped, tied to a toilet, and made into a literal trophy girlfriend for a deranged vampire is perhaps a test one too many.

I'm hoping that Tara can find the strength to fight back, to overcome Franklin, and reassert herself. She has been through so much in her life and has always come out swinging. I want to see her snapping out of her self-destructive spiral and finding herself again. In other words: I'm concerned where this is going. Let's just hope she can break free--in more ways than one--sooner rather than later.

Jason. I loved the fact that Jason has finally gained some perspective on his own life, seeing that he's utterly replaceable when faced with a new promising Bon Temps football QB1 eager to take Jason's place in the pantheon of local sports gods. But Jason's not one to let the opportunity to go to place this young upstart in his place, urging him to take a look at just where he'll be in ten years' time, being replaced by someone younger. Rather than submit to self-pity, however, Jason continues his mission to become a cop now that Andy's been named temporary sheriff after Bud quit. He's all too willing, in fact, to blackmail Andy into making him a deputy, reminding him of the fact that he falsified evidence to cover up Eggs' murder. Will Andy buckle to Jason's demands? It certainly seems that way.

Jessica. I love that Sam--who has his own hands full with the Mickens clan--took Sookie's words literally and hired Jessica as a waitress at Merlotte's, a fact that quickly causes tension in the ranks as Arlene is used to being the only redhead at the bar. I'm glad to see Jessica get pulled closer into the center of True Blood, especially with both Sookie and Bill gone and her character currently on the outs with former boyfriend Hoyt. (It was also great to see Jessica easily fall into place as Merlotte's new server. As she put it, she might be a vampire but she's not dumb.)

However, Jessica's sudden appearance at Merlotte's happens to coincide with the arrival of a stranger in town, a man from her Bible study group who recognizes her as the missing Jessica Hamby, a situation that causes some concern for the baby vampire. Rather than kill him, Jessica opts to glamour him and make him forget that he ever saw her. Their communion is witnessed by Hoyt, who watches from afar and doesn't quite seem to understand the relevance of the scene playing out before him.

Sam. Likewise, I was glad to see that Sam didn't boot the Mickens out of town (though he had all right to) but instead attempted to solve their situation in his own way, offering Tommy an opportunity to stay with him and a way to free himself from Melinda and Joe Lee. While he's clearly still freaked out by the idea of his biological family, he does have to look after his own, as Arlene cattily reminds him. To that end, he sets Melinda and Joe Lee up with someplace to stay until they can get back on their feet (remember, Sam owns a bunch of apartments in Bon Temps, as we saw in Season One), if they don't drink or steal. Has he made an investment in his future and his family? Or will Sam's decision come back to bite him? We'll have to wait to find out.

All in all, "9 Crimes" was a sensational installment that offered up a whole slew of compelling storylines for multiple characters while keeping the action moving swiftly along. Four episodes in, Season Three of True Blood is already looking to be an extraordinarily strong season, even as the wolves continue to encircle our protagonists. I can't wait to see just happens next.

What did you think of this week's episode? Was it worth the wait? Head to the comments section to discuss, debate, and dissect "9 Crimes."

Next week on True Blood ("Trouble"), Alcide and Sookie turn to an alpha-wolf “packmaster” for advice on dealing with Russellʼs minions; Tara considers a proposal from Franklin, whoʼs completed his mission for Russell; Joe Lee breaks his promise to Sam and Tommy; Lafayette (Nelsan Ellis) learns the meaning of patience from Jesus (Kevin Alejandro), his motherʼs (Alfre Woodard) orderly; Jason meets his match in the mysterious girl Crystal (Lindsay Pulsipher); an heirloom reminds Eric of his past and his ongoing thirst for vengeance.

Ep. 29: Trouble - Preview

San Diego Comic-Con 2010: What Are You Most Excited About?

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, San Diego Comic-Con is nearly upon us once more.

With only a little more than a week and a half to go before the start of the annual entertainment extravaganza, I'm wondering what panels and events you are most looking forward to, now that the full schedules for Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday have been officially announced.

Are you sticking to the television track? Desperate for the film panels? Playing it traditional and after some comics insight? Just which panels are the must-have tickets for San Diego Comic-Con 2010? Which are the biggest surprises? And which are you most excited about to attend? Or hope to attend, anyway, given the long lines.

(As for me, I'll be covering both film and television this year--I'm really hoping to get into that Joss Whedon/JJ Abrams panel, Chuck, Fringe, and True Blood among others--and I'll be moderating the panel for ABC's V.)

Head to the comments section to discuss and be sure to check out Comic-Con's fantastic online scheduling tool in which you can create and customize your San Diego Comic-Con itinerary and view events by venue, date, or schedule. Pretty nifty, no?

Channel Surfing: Alan Ball Brings Charlie Huston to HBO, Wire Star Heads to Fringe, Glee Circles Britney, Doctor Who, and More

Welcome to your Monday morning television briefing.

True Blood's Alan Ball is furthering his relationship with HBO. Ball, who created the pay cabler's vampire drama (based on the novels by Charlaine Harris), has signed on to direct and executive producer noir drama pilot All Signs of Death, which is based on Charlie Huston's novel "The Mystic Arts of Erasing All Signs of Death." Huston himself will pen the pilot script, with production set to begin next month in Los Angeles... though there are no current cast attachments on the project, which will revolve around "a knockaround twentysomething who discovers he has a knack for being a crime scene cleaner, and his life gets messy from there." (Variety)

Bubs Alert! Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello is reporting that Andre Royo (The Wire) has been cast as a guest star in the third season premiere of FOX's Fringe, citing unnamed sources. Royo will reportedly play Henry, described as "a soulful taxi driver who is unexpectedly forced into a tense situation with Olivia (Anna Torv)." Will Henry be the one to put the red hat on the alternate universe interloper posing as our Olivia Dunham? [Editor: yes, I love Wire-based humor.] (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Let's take a look at the current state of Glee rumors: we now know for certain that Javier Bardem won't be appearing on the FOX musical comedy... and neither will Britney Spears either, despite a campaign launched by her manager to bring the scandal-prone singer to the set of the Ryan Murphy-executive produced series. However, Ryan Murphy has confirmed that there will be a Britney tribute episode next season. "We are writing a Britney Spears episode," Ryan told Entertainment Tonight late last week. (E! Online's Watch with Kristin, Hollywood Reporter)

[Editor: in other Glee-related news, actress Amber Riley will sing the national anthem at the 2010 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.]

SPOILER! Doctor Who head writer/executive producer Steven Moffat has teased details about this year's Doctor Who Christmas Special, which will feature Michael Gambon and singer Katherine Jenkins, appearing alongside Matt Smith, Karen Gillan, and Arthur Darvill. "Oh, we're going for broke with this one," said Moffat. "It's all your favorite Christmas movies at once, in an hour, with monsters. And The Doctor. And a honeymoon. And... oh, you'll see. I've honestly never been so excited about writing anything. I was laughing madly as I typed along to Christmas songs in April. My neighbors loved it so much they all moved away and set up a website demanding my execution. But I'm fairly sure they did it ironically." (BBC)

In a move that will surprise no one, Peter Serafinowicz has been promoted to series regular on FOX's upcoming comedy series Running Wilde, reports Deadline's Nellie Andreeva. Serafinowicz, who appeared in the pilot as wealthy scion Fa'ad Shaoulin (the nemesis of Will Arnett's Wilde), will now serve as a regular on the Lionsgate-produced series, which launches this fall. He'll join Will Arnett, Keri Russell, Stefania Owen, and Jayne Houdyshell, while the role of Migo Salazar is currently being recast. (Deadline)

Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello is reporting that Taylor Kinney (Trauma) will join the cast of the CW's Vampire Diaries in a recurring capacity. Kinney will play Mason Lockwood, the younger brother of the late Mayor Lockwood, according to unnamed sources. He's slated to make his first appearance on the second season opener of Vampire Diaries, airing September 9th. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Mark your calendars now: HBO will launch its new Prohibition-era drama Boardwalk Empire--from executive producers Martin Scorsese and Terence Winter--on Sunday, September 19th. [Editor: while the announcement is all over the place, this story links to an older piece that offers a look at Boardwalk's set.] (Los Angeles Times' Show Tracker)

Looks like now is not a good time to be an AT&T U-Verse subscriber. The cable provider is in the midst of a carriage dispute with Rainbow Media Holdings... which means that subscribers are in danger of not being able to watch the Season Four launch of AMC's Mad Men, which premieres in less than two weeks. The two sides have been locked in negotiations that have lasted more than six months without any indications of reaching a conclusion and now U-Verse has threatened to drop AMC, IFC, and We from its lineup. (Vulture)

Despite the fact that the actor options have expired, the CW's medical drama pilot HMS is said to still be in contention for a series order. "There is still no final word from the CW but I hear producer Warner Bros. TV is not giving up and is still hoping for a series order for the project, written/executive produced by Amy Holden Jones, co-executive produced by Hayden Panettiere and directed by Mark Piznarski," writes Deadline's Nellie Andreeva. "The actors are aware of the studio's efforts and appear willing to return if there is a pickup soon." (Deadline)

Fancast's Matt Mitovich talks to The Closer's Jon Tenney about Season Six of the TNT drama series as well as the relationship between Fritz and Kyra Sedgwick's Brenda. "In the very first episode, there’s a scene I love where they’re ostensibly discussing a case that she has, and we’re talking about having affairs," said Tenney. "But we’re play-acting, so we’re also sort of feeling each other out a bit… There’s this Nick and Nora sort of banter about the issues of work and personal life and commitment to both of those. That comes to the forefront this season for Brenda and Fritz." (Fancast)

Disney Channel has renewed comedy Good Luck Charlie for a second season as well as greenlighting an original telepic based on the series. (Hollywood Reporter)

Universal Media Studios has signed a two-year overall deal with former Scrubs executive producer Tad Quill, under which he will develop projects for the studio as well as come on board NBC's comedy Perfect Couples. (Deadline)

Former TNT executive Susan Oman Gross has been hired by GK-TV as EVP of television, where she will report to Craig Cegielski and oversee all business and legal affairs for the company. (Variety)

Stay tuned.

San Diego Comic-Con 2010: Sunday Schedule Now Live

And that's a wrap! With a little more than a week or so to go before the start of San Diego Comic-Con 2010, the convention has continued to release its full schedule, day by day.

Wrapping up its trend of releasing single-day lineups over four days, the convention has today announced the programming schedule for Sunday, July 25th. Among the offerings on the final day of Comic-Con 2010, Castle, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Sons of Anarchy, Glee, American Dad, Smallville, Supernatural, Merlin, Unnatural History, Scooby Doo, and much more.

The full schedule for Sunday can be found below. You can find Thursday's lineup here, Friday's schedule here, and Saturday's full lineup here.

Continue reading full story...





Sunday, July 25

10:00-11:00 Emily The Strange— Get your last day of Comic-Con off to a strange start with Dark Horse's Emily the Strange panel! Meet Emily's creator Rob Reger and Dark Horse editor Shawna Gore, and come prepared to quench your curiosity about all things Emily. Exciting announcements, wacky wordplay, and tasty news bits are all on the menu for this early bird panel! Room 3
Categories:  Comics | Kids

10:00-11:00 Jack Kirby Tribute— It's time once again to pay tribute to Jack "King" Kirby, the prolific writer/artist who co-created some of the world's most famous superheroes, including the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, Thor, Captain America, the New Gods, and many more. Kirby biographer and friend Mark Evanier (Kirby: King of Comics) hosts this annual Comic-Con tradition and is joined this year by writers Marv Wolfman (Tomb of Dracula, New Teen Titans), and Kurt Busiek (Astro City, JLA/Avengers) and other Kirby fanatics to discuss the King. Room 4
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Tributes

 10:00-11:00 Spotlight on Rick Riordan— Comic-Con special guest Rick Riordan discusses his blockbuster book series Percy Jackson & the Olympians as well as his recently released The Kane Chronicles series and the upcoming all-new The Heroes of Olympus series. Join Rick for this one-on-one interview and Q&A session! Room 6A
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

 10:00-11:00 Nickelodeon Presents: SpongeBob, Fairly OddParents, Fanboy, and The Troop— Don't miss this screening of your favorite Nickelodeon shows! Catch new episodes of SpongeBob SquarePants, The Fairly OddParents, Fanboy and Chum Chum, and Nick's hit live-action series, The Troop. Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

 10:00-11:00 Super Hero Squad Online: How We Built the First All-Ages Marvel MMO— Gazillion's The Amazing Society offers a sneak peek at SHSO, including new areas unveiled at Comic-Con. Moderator Serena Robar (community manager, TAS), Jason Robar (VP and studio manager, TAS), Jay Minn (creative director, TAS), Nik Davidson (senior game designer, TAS), Franz Felsl (senior game designer, TAS) and Matt Bell (art director, TAS) present a fun and interactive Q&A! Room 7AB
Categories:  Comics | Games | Kids | Superheroes

 10:00-5:00 Children's Film Festival— The 7th annual San Diego International Children's Film Festival again off on Kids Day at Comic-Con International, with more than 60 short films from around the world -- animation, live action, and documentary -- good for all ages. Filmmakers and animators will appear to talk about their work and take questions from the audience. The complete program will be posted on our site soon. Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Kids | Movies

10:00-11:00 Smallville Screening and Q&A— Comic-Con favorite Smallville returns for its last visit to Comic-Con in advance of the show's 10th and final season, as showrunners Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson join star/executive producer Tom Welling and series stars Erica Durance, Cassidy Freeman, and Justin Hartley to talk about the year ahead, answer fan questions, and give an exclusive sneak peek at clips from the final season. From Tollin/Robbins Productions, Millar/Gough Ink in association with Warner Bros. Television, Smallville airs Fridays at 8pm ET/PT on The CW. Smallville: The Complete Ninth Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on September 7. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes | Television

 10:00-11:00 BOOM Kids! Muppets Spotlight— Mark Waid moderates as Eisner Award-nominated cartoonist Roger Langridge gives up all the secrets behind creating the critically acclaimed fan-favorite The Muppet Show Comic Book. A must-attend spotlight for all Muppets fans! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

10:00-11:00 Techland Presents: Comics and Digital Piracy— Just about every comic book is now available online within hours of its release in stores -- whether or not its publisher is selling it in digital form. Techland.com's Douglas Wolk moderates a discussion of what's happening in the online comics Wild West with David Steinberger (comiXology), as well as publishers, scanlation experts, digital-rights specialists, and an opinionated creator or two. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comics | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

 10:00-11:00 Manga Drawing For Kids— b>Austin Osueke (eigoMANGA), David Karrow (Alpha League), David Kolodny Nagy (Mad Beanz), and Natashia McGough (Palbot) are professional manga illustrators and cartoonists from eigoMANGA. The team visits Comic-Con to teach another year of manga artwork and anime storytelling specially designed for kids and young people of all ages. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 Sideshow Collectibles— The Sideshow Collectibles Design and Development Team present an in-depth look at some of Sideshow's most popular product lines and licenses, including Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Marvel Comics, The Lord of the Rings, and many more, offering insight into the design process, sneak peeks of upcoming products, a Q&A session, and giveaways. Room 32AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Comics | Movies | Superheroes | Television

10:00-11:00 Christian Comics: The Word in Pictures— From Andre LeBlanc's classic Picture Bible to Robert Crumb's recent adaptation of Genesis, there is a long tradition of Bible-based comics. Moderator Buzz Dixon (Snokie Stories) and panelists Sergio Cariello (The Action Bible) and Eric Jansen (The Christ of Prophecy) discuss the challenges involved in adapting the words of scripture into visual media. A short devotional message will precede the panel discussion, put on by the Christian Comic Arts Society. Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Comics

 10:30-11:30 Spotlight on Doug TenNapel— Writer/artist, video game creator, filmmaker—Comic-Con special guest Doug TenNapel has it all covered. His graphic novels, including Creature Tech, Tommysaurus Rex, Monster Zoo, and Ghostopolis, have been optioned as big-budget movies. Hear what's next from this multitalented creator! Room 5AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Games | Movies | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 ABC's Castle: Nathan Fillion & Stana Katic— Up close and personal with actors Nathan Fillion (Firefly) and Stana Katic (Quantum of Solace), creator Andrew Marlowe (Air Force One), and executive producers Rob Bowman (X-Files) and Laurie Zaks. BE sure to be on hand for the Q&A session, filled with exclusive videos and fun surprises. Whether you're a fan of the show or a fan of Nathan Fillion, you won't want to miss this panel! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Television

 10:30-11:30 Spotlight on Ann and Jeff VanderMeer: Dr. Lambshead, Steampunk, Weird Tales, Imaginary Animals, and You— Weird Tales editor and Hugo Award winner Ann VanderMeer and her World Fantasy Award–winning husband, writer/editor Jeff VanderMeer, take you on a whirlwind exclusive inside look at a cornucopia of exciting new projects, from The Thackery T. Lambshead Cabinet of Curiosities, featuring work by Mike Mignola and Greg Broadmore, to the Steampunk Bible coffeetable book, from the rejuvenated Weird Tales to the insanely entertaining Kosher Guide to Imaginary Animals, featuring recipes for Wookiee and Cthulhu by Ace of Cake's Duff Goldman. With discussion, interrogation, arguments, and, er, Mongolian Death Worms. Nom nom. Room 8
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

 10:30-12:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #13: Queer Comics— Lien Fan Shen (University of Utah), the artist of I Will Be Your Paradise traces the production process of her manga, reveals the author's struggles with the publisher, and examines the negotiations of her "queer" identity and Taiwanese identity since publication. Ben Bolling (UNC-Chapel Hill) looks at how the "truth" about Marvel's Northstar -- who he is, whom he loves, whether he lives or dies -- is not simply written by creators and handed down unilaterally to fans, but instead operates in an ongoing and often heated negotiation between creators and Northstar's gay fans. Harry Thomas (UNC-Chapel Hill) argues that rise of the Midnighter to "iconic, breakaway star" status in the Wildstorm universe has been accomplished by the subtle but consistent feminization of his partner Apollo, curtailing the radical potential of a queer couple by coding them as a traditional male-female relationship. Mark Miner (Poet-at-Large) draws on the Greek tradition of underage partners and rhetorical competitions exemplified by Plato's Phaedros to understand Yun Kouga's manga Loveless, which features a similar same-sex, under-age partner relationship. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

11:00-12:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers— Navigate the wonderful world of comic books with professors of education Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University) and Dr. Bill McGrath (National University), writer/artists Bill Galvan (Archie) and Jim Valentino (Image Comics), and comics store owners Nancy McCann (Comics Unlimited, Westminster, CA) and Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City, UT). Panelists discuss how teachers, librarians, retailers, and publishers can work together to bring comic books into the classroom for use as an innovative and motivating cross-curricular teaching tool. This multimedia presentation includes personal remarks and a Q&A session; the speakers will present an overview of the medium and highlight specific ways that comic books and graphic novels have been used to engage a variety of learners while promoting reading and literacy. Room 3
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops

 11:00-12:00 DC Kids: Aww Yeah!— Don't miss your chance to chat with Mike Norton, Art Baltazar, and Franco, the creative team behind Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam and the best kid-friendly comic on the market, Tiny Titans! DC co-publisher Dan DiDio hosts what is sure to be entertaining discussion for the whole family! Room 4
Categories:  Comics | Kids | Superheroes

11:00-12:00 Marvel: The Women of Marvel— One of the most talked-about panels from last year is back! Forget Storm and She-Hulk; meet the real Ms. Marvels of the comic world! Join women from every discipline in the creative process at Marvel to hear what it's like working as a woman in comics today and how you can join them. Say goodbye to the so-called "Boy's Club" -- these ladies are busting down the four-color ceiling! Panelists include Marjorie Liu (Black Widow), Kathryn Immonen (Heralds), Christina Strain (Shadowland), and others. Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Bryan Tillman— Animator and art instructor (Department chair of media arts and animation, game art and design, visual game programming, visual effects, and motion graphics at the Art Institute of Washington, DC) Bryan Tillman will cover character designs for animation and what makes them different from comics. Bryan is the owner and CEO of the Kaiser Studio Productions, a production studio for comics, toys, animation, and games. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 Entertaining One's Inner Child— Ever since Harry Potter burst onto the scene, children's books have been taking over the bestseller lists. Creators discuss the thrills and challenges of creating memorable characters for the younger set. Panelists include Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules), Sina Grace (Among the Ghosts), Matt Holm (Babymouse), Adam Rex (Fat Vampire), David Steinberg (Daniel Boom), Greg Van Eekhout (Kid Vs. Squid) and moderator Jennifer Holm (Babymouse). Q&A to follow. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Kids | Writers & Writing

 11:00-12:00 Archaia: The Jim Henson Company— The first series of Fraggle Rock comics were a rousing success, so what do Archaia and The Jim Henson Company have in store next? Find out exclusive information on upcoming Archaia/Henson comic book and graphic novel ventures from Archaia editor-in-chief Stephen Christy and artist/illustrator Brian Froud, who worked closely with Jim Henson on The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth movies as a concept artist. Joining them will be Fraggle Rock editors Tim Beedle, Paul Morrissey, and Joe LeFavi, plus Fraggle Rock writer Heather White. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comics | Kids

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

11:00-12:00 Halo Universe Panel— Frank O'Connor (343 Industries) hosts this panel of renowned Halo creators, including appearances by authors and representatives from long-standing partners such as McFarlane Toys and Weta. Room 32AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Art and Illustration | Games

11:15-12:30 Cartoon Voices II— With so many great cartoon voices, we had to do two panels! Mark Evanier and co-host Earl Kress talk to Phil LaMarr (Futurama), Janet Waldo (The Jetsons), Laura Summer (The Garfield Show), and a few surprises. Meet the people behind the voices of your favorite cartoons! Room 6A
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Television

 11:15-12:15 Cartoon Network: Tower Prep with Firebreather Sneak— Executive producer and series creator Paul Dini (Lost, Batman Beyond) and executive producer Glen Morgan (Bionic Woman) offer fans an exclusive first look at Cartoon Network's newest live-action mystery series Tower Prep. Meet the series stars Drew Van Acker (The Lake), Elise Gatien (Bionic Woman), Ryan Pinkston (Punk'd), and Dyana Liu (Parenthood). Fans will also get an exclusive look at Firebreather, Cartoon Network's first world premiere original CGI movie event based on the comic book series with creator and co-executive producer Phil Hester (The Wretch), co-executive producer Andy Kuhn (Freedom Ring), and writer/director Peter Chung (Aeon Flux). Room 6DE
Categories:  Comics | Horror and Suspense | Kids | Television

11:15-12:15 Supernatural Screening and Q&A— Cast members, executive producers Sera Gamble (Eyes) and Ben Edlund (Angel), and creator/executive producer Eric Kripke (Boogeyman) present an exclusive sneak peek at footage from the highly anticipated sixth season of Supernatural, which moves to a new day, Fridays at 9pm ET/PT on The CW this fall. The panel will answer questions from the audience and also show a portion of the special features from the upcoming Supernatural: The Complete Fifth Season DVD and Blu-ray release, in stores September 7. Supernatural is produced by Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Horror and Suspense | Television

 11:30-12:30 LEGO Universe Building Creativity Show & Tell— Take an in-depth look inside the creative process of bringing LEGO worlds to life through storytelling and fan collaboration, to create a truly unique MMOG. Six LEGO Group and NetDevil panelists discuss their roles in the development of LEGO Universe, from senior directors to mega fans and builders. The panel includes Ryan Seabury (creative director), Mark Hansen (senior director), Chris Brubaker (media coordinator), Ryan Baier (videographer), and two representatives from the LEGO Universe Partners program. Room 5AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Games | Kids

11:30-12:30 Dark Horse: Yoshitaka Amano— Please join Dark Horse Comics to celebrate the career and the rare U.S. appearance of legendary Japanese artist Yoshitako Amano. The creator of Vampire Hunter D will be joined by Hollywood darling "Mink" to discuss their recent collaboration, Shinjuku, an epic work of artistic genius that explores the seedy underworld of modern Tokyo. Room 8
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics

11:45-12:45 Comic-Con Debut: International Hit Merlin— There will be magic and adventure aplenty as the global sensation Merlin (airing on the BBC and in 170 countries, including Syfy in the U.S.) makes its Comic-Con International debut. Series stars Anthony Head (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Merlin himself, Colin Morgan, join co-creators and executive producers Johnny Capps and Julian Murphy to guide fans through a mystical behind-the-scenes tour of the popular series, providing an exclusive sneak peek at scenes from the upcoming third season and taking an insightful and often humorous glance back at the series' first two seasons. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:00-1:00 WildStorm Focus on RED: the Comic Book— Wanna know more about RED -- one of this fall's most anticipated movies with an all-star cast led by Bruce Willis? Artist Cully Hamner is up front-and-center to tell all about his exciting thriller co-created with Warren Ellis. Plus, with your hosts, senior VP for creative affairs Gregory Noveck and VP/general manager Hank Kanalz, there's more RED comic news with screenwriters Erich Hoeber, John Hoeber, Doug Wagner, and others on what's in store for this ageless hero! Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Horror and Suspense | Movies

 12:00-1:00 Hot Wheels Battle Force 5: Season 2 World Premiere!— Be the first to see the premiere episode from the second season of the hit Emmy-nominated CG-animated series Hot Wheels Battle Force 5! Watch 26 new episodes this fall on Cartoon Network, continuing the adventures of a group of teen drivers and their ultra-cool, ultra-fast battle vehicles. This time around, Battle Force 5 must face all-new villains -- the Red Sentients. After the screening, producers Audu Paden and Ira Singerman are joined by real-life Hot Wheels car designers for a behind-the-scenes peek at how the series was created. Plus, don't miss fun activities, trivia, and lots and lots of great prizes! Room 7AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Kids | Television

12:00-1:00 Blood, Sweat, and Tears: Teen Angst in Young Adult Fiction— A discussion of the appeal for youthful protagonists in young adult fiction and beyond. Authors include Emily Drake (The Magickers novels), Nancy Holder (Wicked series), D. J. MacHale (Morpheus Road series), James Owen (Chronicles of the Imaginarium Geographic series), Christopher Pike (Thirst series), Kathy Reichs (Virals), Neal Shusterman (The Skinjacker Trilogy), and Michael Spradlin (The Youngest Templar Novels). Moderated by author Cindy Pon (Silver Phoenix). Room 24ABC
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

 12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Dennis O'Neil— One of comics' most legendary writer/editors, Comic-Con special guest Dennis O'Neil is best known for his work on Batman. O'Neil's long career includes writing and editing at Marvel and guiding the Caped Crusader at DC Comics for many years. Dennis will talk about his career and what's up next for this fan-favorite creator. WildStorm's Scott Peterson moderates. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

 12:00-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #14: The Superhero as the American Ideal— Sandy Palas (CSU-Fullerton) traces the social impact of Captain America as physical exemplar of the ideology of strength and power and his extension beyond America's borders as a protector figure for and from other countries. Keegan Lannon (Aberystwyth University) examines how Marvel's Civil War questions the role of the superhero and how the superhero is constructed through parallel story arcs. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Superheroes

 12:00-1:00 Kids Draw with James Sturm— Create your own cartooning adventure in this fun, interactive drawing session with Eisner Award–winning cartoon adventurer James Sturm (Adventures in Cartooning)! Using simple building blocks, you'll learn how to put together an adventure of your own -- and have fun along the way! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-2:00 Browncoats Fan Group— Fans of Firefly and Serenity are welcome to join the California Browncoats. Get the scoop on upcoming 'verse-related and 'verse-friendly events and products that you'll really love. Drop by any time to join the fun and find out what the group is up to, but those arriving by 12:20 can enter to play "Serenity Spin": put your 'verse-related trivia to the test to win shiny prizes! You never know what else might happen! Room 32AB
Categories:  Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:00-2:00 Ball-jointed Dolls Collectors Group— Doll owners and enthusiasts discuss the world of ball-jointed resin dolls from companies such as Elfdoll, Volks, Luts, Customhouse, Fairyland, Bambicrony, Iplehouse, and many others. Learn the basics about BJDs, and pick up tips on customizing, maintaining, and photographing these beautiful dolls. Share the beauty of your own unique doll, or just see the many dolls on display, from tiny to towering...it's a great opportunity to experience the different types of dolls in the world of BJDs. Make new friends, both real and resin! Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Costuming | Fandom

12:30-1:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers Breakout Sessions— Stay for breakout sessions with Secret Origin of Good Readers panelists.  Free 70-page The Secret Origin of Good Readers companion resource book (PDF) and other exciting materials at www.night-flight.com/secretorigin. Room 3
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops

12:30-2:00 CBLDF Live Art Jam— Watch Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash), Ale Garza (Fathom), Chris Burnham (X-Men: Manifest Destiny), and Daniel Leister (Hack/Slash) battle it out to see who can make the coolest art before your eyes! Get an inside look behind the scenes at how these artists work, as they make live art projected onto the big screen at the CBLDF Live Art Jam! All art will be auctioned off at the end of the event to benefit the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Room 5AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comics

 12:30-1:30 Phineas and Ferb— Hey Ferb, I know what we're  gonna  do today! Go to the Phineas and Ferb panel! Creators Dan Povenmire (Family Guy) and Jeff "Swampy" Marsh (Rocko's Modern Life) along with the voice of Phineas, Vincent Martella (Everybody Hates Chris), the voice of Jeremy, Mitchel Musso (Hannah Montana), and other surprise cast members will be on hand to answer your questions and show you new and exciting content from Disney Channel and Disney XD's hit animated series, including a sneak peek of a special Phineas and Ferb Comic-Con episode guest-starring Seth MacFarlane and Kevin Smith, plus much much more! Moderated by Jill Sanford, director, original series for Disney TV Animation. Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

12:30-1:30 The Funny Stuff: Humor in Comics and Graphic Novels— The world of comics isn't just about dark and mysterious superheroes. There are a lot of great funny books out there. The Cartoon Art Museum's Andrew Farago talks to Comic-Con special guests Peter Bagge (Hate), Howard Cruse (Wendel), Nicholas Gurewitch (The Perry Bible Fellowship), Keith Knight (The K Chronicles), Larry Marder (Beanworld), and Doug TenNapel (Monster Zoo) about the humorous side of comics. Room 8
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Humor & Satire | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:15 American Dad— See a never-before-seen episode of American Dad in various stages of animation followed by a Q&A session with producers Seth MacFarlane, Mike Barker, and Matt Weitzman and cast members Dee Bradley Baker, Scott Grimes, and Rachael MacFarlane. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:45-1:45 Marvel: Spider-Man— The hunt has begun and the moment that everyone's been clamoring about is almost here! How much more can everyone's favorite web-slinger take? You've got questions and these people have answers! Dan Slott (Amazing Spider-Man), Marvel's talent liaison C. B. Cebulski, and Amazing Spider-Man assistant editor Tom Brennan talk about what's on the horizon for Peter Parker and just what is "Origin of the Species"? There's only one way to find out, True Believers -- attend this panel! Room 6A
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

 1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Al Wiesner— This writer/artist has been doing it his way for 25 years! Comic-Con special guest Al Wiesner created his own superhero, Shaloman, after many years of searching for a Jewish superhero. Some 38 issues later the "Kosher Crusader" is still thrilling readers around the world! Al talks about his series in this special Spotlight panel. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

 1:00-2:00 Unnatural History Episode Screening and Q&A— Join the adventure! Cartoon Network's first live-action mystery series, Unnatural History, journeys to San Diego for its Comic-Con debut. Unnatural History chronicles the adventures of Henry Griffin, a teenager with extraordinary skills acquired while traveling the world with his anthropologist parents. His unique abilities come in handy when he moves to Washington D.C. -- and begins exploring the mysteries of a charter high school within the National Museum Complex. Fans will be treated to a premiere screening of an episode, as well as a Q&A with series stars Kevin G. Schmidt (Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel), Jordan Gavaris (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Italia Ricci (Greek) and Martin Donovan (Weeds) as well as creator/executive producer Mike Werb (The Mask, Face/Off). From Warner Horizon Television, Unnatural History airs Tuesday nights at 8pm ET/PT on Cartoon Network. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Kids | Television

 1:00-2:00 Nickelodeon's The Troop: A Monster a Day Is All We Ask!— Ever wonder what happens inside the sacred walls of a comedy writers' room? Or how they come up with all those cool monsters and action sequences? How they are able to blend comedy, action, and scares all in 22 minutes? The creators and executive producers of The Troop give you an exclusive inside look into the inner workings of this cult comedy/horror hit. Executive producer Tommy Lynch (Alex Mack), executive producer Jay Kogen (The Simpsons), show creators Max Burnett (Possums) and Greg Coolidge (Employee of the Month), and the entire writing staff will divulge their secrets to the show in addition to sharing never-before-seen footage of the upcoming season. Moderated by Eric Kim, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 7AB
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Kids | Television | Writers & Writing

1:00-3:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Sze Jones— Character artist Sze Jones will demonstrate the process of making striking cinematic heroines for games using Z-Brush. He will cover artistic and technical aspects, with supporting imagery and videos, and share insights on character concepts, costume designs, paintings, and sculpting. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Games | Seminars & Workshops

 1:00-2:00 BOOM Kids! Get-a-Sketch Panel— Darkwing Duck creator Tad Stones moderates the first-ever BOOM Kids! "Get-a-Sketch" panel. Darkwing Duck comic artist James Silvani, WALL*E artist Morgan Luthi, Incredibles artist Ramanda Kamarga, and a host of other BOOM Kids! artists will be drawing sketches to be handed out to some lucky attendees! Also in attendance: Toy Story writer Jesse Blaze Snider with his Muppet Snow White co-writer Patrick Storck. Learn everything that goes into making a BOOM Kids! comic and maybe get a free sketch! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Kids

1:00-2:00 Cover Story: The Art of the Cover— Despite the old adage, you can tell a book by its cover, especially if it's a comic book! Mark Evanier talks with fellow Comic-Con special guests Neal Adams (Batman, Green Lantern/Green Arrow), Dave Dorman (Star Wars), Sean Phillips (Criminal, Incognito), and Ivan Reis (Blackest Night, Green Lantern) about what makes a great cover. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

 1:00-2:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #15: Alternative Comics— Amy Taylor (School of the Art Institute of Chicago) examines the cathartic pleasures of fictional violence and identity in Jhonen Vasquez' Johnny the Homicidal Maniac. Kathleen Dunley (University of Advancing Technology) amends the misunderstanding of Seth's Palookaville and George Sprott as nostalgic by framing Seth as a "memory individual" who artistically directs and focuses the reader's attention to the smallest, but necessary, traces of the past. Sheri McCord (Saint Louis University) argues that Jaime Hernandez's characters Maggie and Hopey reveal the complexities of being sexual women to their audience and illustrate the conflict between friendship and attraction, love and desire. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference

 1:00-2:00 How to Draw Monsters— Marshall Vandruff will show drawings of monsters by great masters and explain how today's artists still use the old methods of drawing even after 500 years. He will demonstrate how to come up with ideas for monsters and draw them so they look realistic. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

 1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Douglas E. Richards— Comic-Con special guest Douglas E. Richards is the author of The Prometheus Project series -- science fiction thrillers that have been widely acclaimed by kids, adults, and SF fans alike (including Asimov's Science Fiction magazine). Douglas has also written extensively for National Geographic KIDS and American Fencing magazines. Bring your kids and join Douglas as he gives a fun and engaging presentation that has delighted students at middle grade assemblies. Douglas will touch on the secret to happiness, fiction plotting and writing, continuity errors, a behind-the-scenes look at his books, and more -- followed by a Q&A. Room 3
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

 1:30-2:30 The Winner Twins— The Winner Twins, Brianna and Brittany (authors of The Strand book series), America's youngest multiple-award-winning authors announce that their first book in the Strand Series, The Strand Prophecy, is now in development as a major motion picture. They will be discussing their method of writing novels and adapting content for television and film production in Hollywood. Joining the Winner Twins are panelists Mike Greenfield (Beverly Hills Talent Management), Mickey Stern (CEO, BASE Productions), Eric Gozlan (Shivita Films), Jack Hozel (Shivita Films), and Jeff Winner (author). Room 8
Categories:  Kids | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Glee— One year after the cast and creators of Glee came to Comic-Con for the first time, the show has exploded with blockbuster ratings, number-one albums and a sold-out concert tour. Get an exclusive first look at what's in store for season 2 from executive producers Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, along with stars Chris Colfer, Amber Riley, Jenna Ushkowitz, Kevin McHale, Mark Salling, Heather Morris, and Naya Rivera, as they share some never-before-seen footage, spill behind-the-scenes secrets, and take questions from the crowd. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Fandom | Humor & Satire | Television

 1:45-2:45 Sneak Peek into the LEGO Group's New Constraction Property: Hero Factory!— The LEGO Group, creators of the ever popular Bionicle franchise, is proud to present their new action constraction property: Hero Factory. Come meet the product designer, get a firsthand look at the products launching this fall, learn the back story on Hero Factory, get a sneak peek of the new TV show and see if you have what it takes to be part of the Hero Factory! Room 6DE
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Games | Kids | Television

2:00-3:00 Keenspot 2010...in 3D!— Pioneering webcomics publisher Keenspot returns for their 10th annual Comic-Con panel! Creators scheduled to appear include Bobby Crosby (Dreamless, Marry Me, Last Blood), Sarah Ellerton (Dreamless, The Phoenix Requiem, Inverloch), R.C. Monroe (Out There), and Benny Powell (Wayward Sons). Additionally, director Jay Weisman will be debuting an exclusive 3D trailer of his upcoming shot-in-3D feature film Shockwave Darkside, a Red Giant Media/Pipeline Entertainment sci-fi thriller about a war on the moon! Joining Jay from the film will be stars Mei Melancon (Psylocke in X-Men: The Last Stand, The L Word) and Rich Ceraulo (Death Sentence), and previews of the Keenspot webcomic based on the film will be shown. The film is produced by Aimee Schoof, Isen Robbins, Kevin Fox, Christian Beutel, Dan DeFilippo, Dave Marken and stars Bill Sage (Precious), Mei Melancon (X-Men: The Last Stand), Sonequa Martin (The Good Wife), Rich Ceraulo (Death Sentence), and Alex Cendese  (Law & Order). Room 4
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Webcomics

2:00-3:00 The Digital Age of Comics— Have we moved from the Bronze Age to the Modern Age to...the Digital Age of Comics? This lively discussion about eComics is moderated by Macworld senior editor Jason Snell, with IDW's Jeff Webber, iVerse Comics' Michael Murphey, Sony PSP's Adriana Eyzaguirre, and creators Jeff Smith and J. Scott Campbell. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comics | Webcomics

2:00-3:00 DC Focus: Premiere Teams— DC Comics knows a thing or two about teams. From the company that brought you the first team in comics' history (Justice Society of America), don't miss this panel on the DCU's top teams roaming Earth (JLA, JSA, Secret Six, Titans), the farthest reaches of space (R.E.B.E.L.S.), and even across time (Legion of Super-Heroes)! Senior group editor Mike Carlin is joined by Tony Bedard (R.E.B.E.L.S.), Marc Guggenheim (Flash), JT Krul (Titans), Paul Levitz (Legion of Super-Heroes), James Robinson (Justice League of America), Matthew Sturges (JSA All-Stars), and others for this collaborative panel! Room 6A
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

2:00-3:00 "The Batman Dreams of Hieronymus Machines," or The Matt Fraction Spotlight Panel— Comic-Con special guest Matt Fraction (Casanova, Invincible Iron Man, Uncanny X-Men, The Mighty Thor) performs "The Batman Dreams of Hieronymus Machines," a weird spoken-word history of comics, art, and his own experiences with both and how comics -- and art -- can save your life. Also: Bruce Lee, cave paintings, Stilt-Man, and profound brain injuries. First performed as a part of W00tstock 2.0, now it's coming to San Diego! Then, after that, probably a discussion and some Q&A and stuff moderated by Bill Hader (SNL, Paul, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World). Room 7AB
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Harry Potter Fandom Panel— This summer sees the Harry Potter series and fandom slip into the future with the close of filming on Deathly Hallows and the grand opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. What is the impact on the fans, fandom, and their future? Insights from Melissa Anelli (webmaster of The Leaky Cauldron and author of Harry: A History), Darren Criss (actor/composer, A Very Potter Musical, A Very Potter Sequel), Leslie Combemale (ArtInsights Gallery, official/exclusive HP art supplier), Eddie Newquist (executive producer, Harry Potter: The Exhibition) and Andrew Slack (HP Alliance Creator and Executive Producer). Moderated by Heidi Tandy (HPEF/Ascendio 2012, FictionAlley). Room 24ABC
Categories:  Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Business of Cartoon Voices— An agent, a casting director, and some voice actors walk into a Comic-Con program book...wait, this isn't a joke. It's a serious "how to" look at the business of cartoon voices, telling you what it takes to get in and how to avoid getting ripped off. Mark Evanier talks to an agent, a casting director, and actors to give you a no-nonsense look at the industry. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

 2:00-3:00 Manga Style Drawing with Billy Martinez— Billy Martinez, artist of the Deepest Dark, Wildflower, and Kickass Girl, will be demonstrating techniques on drawing dynamic anatomy and facial expressions. This lesson is for all ages, beginner and advance artist are welcome to come join in on the fun. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Kids | Seminars & Workshops

 2:00-3:00 Growing Up with Archie Panel— Archie Comics creative staff share inside perspectives on the creation of Archie, how Archie Comics has evolved, and why Archie titles dominate the newsstands and supermarkets in comic sales. Panelists include Archie Comics president/editor-in-chief Victor Gorelick, Archie Comics VP/managing editor Mike Pellerito, and creators George Gladir (Sabrina), Dan Parent (Betty & Veronica), Batton Lash and Bill Galvan (Archie Freshman Year), Rich Koslowski (Archie), Tania del Rio (Sabrina), Arie Kaplan (Archie & Friends), Craig Boldman (Jughead), and Andrew Pepoy (Katy Keene). This is your chance to meet the Archie Comics creators face-to-face. The panel will feature a Q&A session with the fans as well as a comic giveaway to all fans in attendance. Room 32AB
Categories:  Comics | Kids

 2:15-3:15 Scooby-Doo Screening and Q&A— Those meddling teens are at it again! Find out what Shaggy, Fred, Daphne,  Velma  and, of course, Scooby-Doo are up to with a sneak peek at upcoming titles from this beloved family franchise. Actor Matthew Lillard (Scooby-Doo feature films, the voice of Shaggy), supervising producers Spike Brandt  and Tony Cervone (both Duck Dodgers), producer Mitch Watson (Ben 10: Race Against Time), and art director Dan Krall (Coraline) screen a never-before-seen episode of the new Cartoon Network/Warner Bros. Animation series Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated (airing Mondays at 7pm ET/PT on Cartoon Network) and take fan questions. Additionally, they will unveil the trailer to Warner Home Video's upcoming original animated movie Scooby-Doo! Camp Scare (release date: September 14) and will provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's forthcoming Scooby-Doo! and the Spooky Swamp video game, coming September 14. Panel attendees will be served a full course of all things Scooby-Doo, as they will also hear about additional upcoming Scooby-related projects from Warner Premiere and Warner Bros. Consumer Products. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Games | Kids | Movies | Television

2:30-3:30 Archaia: All-Ages— All-ages books are not necessarily children's books -- they're books that readers of all ages can enjoy! Join Archaia for updates, previews and exciting new information on several of its all-ages titles, including Berona's War, Fraggle Rock, Gunnerkrigg Court, Mouse Guard: The Black Axe, and Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard with creator David Petersen and contributors Jeremy Bastian (Cursed Pirate Girl), Katie Cook (Fraggle Rock), and Karl Kerschl (The Abominable Charles Christopher), and Return of the Dapper Men with artist Janet Lee. Moderated by Archaia's Mel Caylo. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Writers & Writing

2:30-5:00 Comic-Con 2010 Masquerade Playback— Saturday night's impressive costuming event is reviewed and a big-screen video of the entire show is presented for those who missed it or who simply want a second look. Hosted by Masquerade director Martin Jaquish and Masquerade assistant John Ruff. (Sorry, we cannot sell copies of the show). Room 8
Categories:  Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom

 2:30-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #16: The Culture of Popular things: Ethnographic Examinations of Comic-Con 2010— Matthew J. Smith (Wittenberg University) moderates a panel of graduate and undergraduate students (Kane Anderson, Evan Dossey, Melissa Miller, Emily Saidel, Max Wassmann, Tanya Zuk, Cameron Catalfu, Pamela Geranios, Samuel Kinney, and Jacob Sigafoos) from a range of universities who present initial findings of a week-long field study of the intersection of fan practice at the nexus of cultural marketing and fan culture at Comic-Con. Discussion with the audience follows the presentations. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Fandom

2:45-3:45 X: Sons of Anarchy and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia— Appearing at Comic-Con for the first time is Sons of Anarchy, with series stars Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal (Futurama), and Ron Perlman (Hellboy, Beauty and the Beast) and series creator Kurt Sutter. Next up is It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia with Charlie (Charlie Day), Mac (Rob McElhenney), Dennis (Glenn Howerton), Sweet Dee (Kaitlin Olson), and Frank (Danny DeVito), the self-centered owners of Paddy's Pub in Philadelphia who will do just about anything -- no matter how reprehensible -- in an attempt to better their own situation. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Television

3:00-4:30 Comics Pro/Fan Trivia Match— Len Wein (Microbots), Kurt Busiek (Kool-Aid Man), and Mark Waid (Batman Electric Talking Toothbrush) face off against fans Tom Galloway (former Google employee), David Oakes (college professor), and Michael Grabois (rocket scientist) in a match on significant pre-Crisis DC events in celebration of DC's 75th anniversary. Peter David (Captain America's War on Drugs) will moderate. Room 4
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Fandom | Games

 3:00-4:00 Yo Gabba Gabba!— First Look and Live Show Ticket Giveaway Yo Gabba Gabba! producers The Magic Store and W!LDRBAIN Entertainment present an all-new episode of Yo Gabba Gabba! In the episode "Space," the Gabba! gang goes on a space adventure in a flying saucer to explore stars and planets. While in space, they meet new friends and discover a new planet. Featured songs include "Little Lights in the Sky," "Rocket Ride," and "Everyone is Different." The band Electrocute performs the song "Rocket Run." This never-before-seen episode will be followed by a special screening of the episode "Superhero," starring Mos Def as Super Mr. Superhero, the Aquabats, and Super Music Friends Show guests Devo perform "Watch Us Work It." The show also features the animated segment "Super Martian Robot Girl." As a special bonus, there will be a contest giveaway where one lucky recipient will receive a family four-pack of tickets to see Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!: There's a Party in My City. Room 5AB
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

 3:00-4:00 Phineas & Ferb Special— Be among the first to watch the World Premier of Disney XD's Phineas and Ferb "Summer Belongs to You," a one-hour special event. Phineas and Ferb plan to make the most of the longest day of the year by traveling around the world in one day "chasing the sun." Don't miss the best sun-chasing, globe-hopping, adventure-filled, vacation day ever! Premieres Monday, August 2 at 8pm/7pm on Disney XD. Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Kids | Television

3:00-4:30 Starship Smackdown XVIII: Ultimate Platinum Collector's Edition— The must-see panel of Comic-Con and WonderCon returns for another action-packed year as the greatest spaceships in the history of the universe and this or any other dimension compete for the highly coveted Smackdown title. Will the Enterprise once again defeat an Imperial Star Destroyer? Can the Serenity make mincemeat out of the Battlestar Galactica? And what exactly is the Captain's Courageous lightning round anyway? Join our panel of expert spaceshipologists as they outwit, outplay, and outphaser, starring Robert Meyer Burnett (Free Enterprise I & II, The Hills Run Red), Chris Gossett (The Red Star), Ashley E. Miller (Fringe, Thor), Steve Melching (The Clone Wars, Transformers), Robert Hewitt Wolfe (Andromeda, Deep Space Nine), Kay Reindl (Millennium, Legend of the Seeker), and the Richard Dawson of the stars, moderator Mark A. Altman (DOA: Dead or Alive, The Unknowns), along with some very special surprise guests. End your weekend the Comic-Con way with the geekiest and most beloved panel of all-time in this or any other dimension known or unknown. Room 7AB
Categories:  Fandom | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:00-4:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Elvin A. Hernandez— Storyboard artist and art instructor (Media Arts and Animation Department at the Art Institute of Washington, DC) Elvin A. Hernandez will be presenting "Sequential Storytelling: Comics, Storyboards, and other Visual Narratives," a workshop covering the similarities and differences between various types of sequential art, while explaining the nature of sequential art. Room 18
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Full-Time Creative Work on a Part-Time Schedule— Learn the secret to using part-time collaboration to achieve full-time results! No matter which industry (comics, illustration, movies, design, animation), breaking into today's media is a full-time job, even if you have only part-time hours to accomplish it. Hear Topher Davila (editor and co-creator of TomatoTV and TomatoTVAnimation), Mario Martinez (co-creator of TomatoTV), Kevin Flessing (TomatoTV columnist and staff writer for TomatoTVAnimation), Jonelle Cobb (web designer, art director), Ron Coleman (TomatoTV columnist), and Jessica Grimshaw (animator), talk about how they successfully juggle time between the creative and business sides from their experiences in illustration, business branding, writing, design, and animation. Whether you struggle with deadlines, are a creative hobbyist, or simply want to know how to get your foot in the door, this panel is not to be missed! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 DC Town Hall Meeting— All are welcome to join DC co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee for a relaxed Sunday afternoon discussion. Share your thoughts on what you love about comics now and what you hope to see in the future! Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

3:00-4:00 Dynamite Entertainment Speaks with Fans One-on-One— Fans can meet with Dynamite's president and publisher Nick Barrucci and editor Joseph Rybandt in a "one-on-one" with fans in their first-ever Comic-Con panel. Room 32AB
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Television

 3:15-4:15 Kick Buttowski: Suburban Daredevil— Dare to be awesome at the Kick Buttowski panel! Creator Sandro Corsaro (Kick Buttowski), director Chris Savino (Dexter's Lab), and other special guests talk about the hit Disney XD animated series and answer your questions. Action, guts, glory, and cool prizes -- all in one panel! Watch a special sneak peek of a new Disney XD animated show. Moderated by Eric Coleman, SVP,  original  series for Disney TV Animation.  Room 6A
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Animation | Kids | Television

3:30-4:30 Comic-Con Talkback— Another Comic-Con -- the 41st! -- is coming to a close. Here's your chance to come and tell the CCI organizers what they did wrong and right. Talk to Comic-Con executives about this year's event and your concerns. Room 3
Categories:  Fandom | Talkback

3:30-4:30 501st Costumes— This panel describes the essentials about what it takes to create a costume that meets the standards of quality for entry into the 501st Legion. It will provide an overview of what is involved in creating a  costume,  the various costume categories, and how much time is involved in creating a costume that is screen accurate. A panel of experts describe, display, and demonstrate tips and techniques used for their costume specialty. Room 26AB
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

4:00-5:00 Buffy the Musical— Let's end this show with a bang! The powers that be behind Fandom Charities Inc. and Whedonopolis.com present a screening of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer musical episode "Once More With Feeling" as Comic-Con 2010's big closing event! Many say this is the finest, funniest, most ingenious episode ever to come out of the Buffy-verse. But remember, the best part of the show is up to you! This episode was made for talkin' -- back, that is -- and singing and shouting and dancing in the aisles, with or without your dry cleaning! Audience participation: it isn't just for Rocky Horror and mob riots anymore. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

San Diego Comic-Con 2010: Saturday Schedule Now Live

Huzzah! With less than two weeks to go before the start of San Diego Comic-Con 2010, the convention has continued to release its full schedule, day by day.

Continuing its trend of releasing single-day lineups over four days, the convention has today announced the programming schedule for Saturday, July 24rd. Among the offerings on the third day of Comic-Con 2010, Chuck, The Event, V, Fringe, Nikita, Vampire Diaries, Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, Harry Potter/Green Lantern/Sucker Punch, The Venture Bros., Futurama, Sanctuary, The Simpsons, Let Me In, The Guild, Community, No Ordinary Family, Warehouse13/Eureka, Paul, Cowboys & Aliens, Attack of the Show, Aqua Teen Hunger Force/Squidbillies/Tim & Eric Awesome Show Great Job!/Mary Shelley's Frakenhole, and much more.

The full schedule for Saturday can be found below. Be sure to come back tomorrow for Sunday's lineup... (and you can find Thursday's lineup here and Friday's lineup here.)

Continue reading full story...



Saturday, July 24

 10:00-11:00 Spotlight on Carla Speed McNeil— Comic-Con special guest Carla Speed McNeil is best known for her creator-owned title Finder. A few years back, Carla took new stories of Finder to the Internet, and the result was an Eisner Award for best Webcomic of 2008 and a new series of reprints from Dark Horse. Carla talks about her work and what's next in this Spotlight panel. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 The Black Panel 2010— This year's Black Panel will be one for the ages. The focus will be on empowerment, education, real-world networking, and finally but never last, fun. The panelists include entertainment attorney Darrel Miller, novelist Nnedi Okorafor, artist Denys Cowan, and writer/producer/director Reggie Hudlin, with moderator Michael Davis. Once they answer life's burning questions, they'll chill with a salute and Q&A from the audience with actor/writer/director Bill Duke. As always, surprise guests who will rock your world. Room 5AB
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Nickelodeon Presents: The SpongeBob SquarePants Secret Formula Revealed!— Ever wonder what delicious ingredients go into making an episode of SpongeBob? The masterminds behind the show -- executive producer Paul Tibbitt (Nightmare Ned), head writer Steven Banks (The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius), creative director Vincent Waller (Ren & Stimpy), supervising storyboard director Tuck Tucker (Hey Arnold!), layout supervisor Kenny Pittenger (CatDog), storyboard director Luke Brookshier (Kim Possible), background painter Andy Clark (Dexter's Laboratory), animation director Andrew Overtoom (Family Guy), and the voice of SpongeBob himself, Tom Kenny -- show you how the kernel of an idea turns into a fully animated episode. Followed by an exclusive screening of a never-before-seen episode, plus Q&A with the crew. Moderated by Roland Poindexter, senior VP, animation  for Nickelodeon. Room 6A
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

10:00-11:00 Writing Animated Feature Films— The Writers Guild of America's Animation Writers Caucus once again sponsors a panel on writing for animation. Some of the most successful films of the last decade have been animated. But how different are they to write from live-action features?  From television scripts?  And what about direct-to-DVD animated features? The writers of some of the top animated features will talk about the process of creating those films, their interactions with the artists and the studios, and how they came to be involved with their project. Panelists tentatively scheduled include Alan Burnett (Green Lantern: First Flight), Darren Lemke (Shrek Forever After), John Musker (The Princess and the Frog), Dean DeBlois (How to Train Your Dragon), Wallace Wolodarsky (Monsters vs. Aliens), and moderator Craig Miller (Elfquest). Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Movies | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Marvel Comics Writers Unite!— The third in Comic-Con's series of "Year of the Writer/Comics Writers Unite!" panels focuses on Marvel Comics and includes Comic-Con special guests Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers, New Avengers, Ultimate Spider-Man), Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man, Thor), and Chris Claremont (X-Men Forever, X-Women) in a discussion with writer Mark Waid (Amazing Spider-Man, Irredeemable). Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Mad about MAD!— MAD magazine has established itself as the original and most imitated and influential satirical publication across generations. This fall, MAD returns to TV screens with a new show for the next generation! MAD magazine editor John Ficarra, MAD art director Sam Viviano, legendary MAD artist Sergio Aragonés, current MAD artist Tom Richmond, MAD story editor/producer Kevin Shinick, and your host, Warner Bros. Animation senior VP Peter Girardi offer a light-hearted look at the future of an American institution. Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Humor & Satire | Television

10:00-10:45 Chuck Screening and Q&A— Chuck executive producers and co-creators Josh Schwartz (Gossip Girl) and Chris Fedak appear along with series stars Zachary Levi (Alvin and the Chipmunks), Yvonne Strahovski (upcoming The Killer Elite), Joshua Gomez (Without a Trace), Ryan McPartlin, Mark Christopher Lawrence (The Pursuit of Happyness), Vik Sahay (Good Will Hunting), Scott Krinsky (The O.C.), Sarah Lancaster (upcoming The Good Doctor) and Adam Baldwin (Serenity) for their usual hijinks—a Q&A to discuss the upcoming season four (made possible by the devoted fanbase) and a special video presentation. Produced by Fake Empire, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Chuck airs Mondays at 8pm ET/PT on NBC, and Chuck: The Complete Third Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on September 7. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Humor & Satire | Television

10:00-11:00 Panel of the Living Dead: Surviving the Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Onslaught on Xbox 360— Xbox 360 has become the exclusive epicenter for zombies. The team behind Capcom's Dead Rising 2 joins the industry's top zombie creative minds and a special guest zombie authority for a behind-the-braaaiiinnss look at the popular zombie titles on Xbox 360. Chomp on insights into how they've developed their unique lexicon on undead lore and storytelling approaches, and get survival tips for the inevitable zombie apocalypse. Join the flesh-hungry undead for a special Dead Rising 2 surprise from Capcom and be one of the first 25 zombies attending the panel to receive a special token for Dead Rising 2: Case Zero. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Games | Horror and Suspense

10:00-11:00 Twilight Fanfiction Author Fangroup— A Q&A/dialogue with Snowqueens Icedragon (Master of the Universe), m81170 (An Introduction to Swirl & Daisy), MsKathy (The Trip Home), HMonster4 (Deconstructing Dracula), Giselle-lx (Ithaca is Gorges), ElleCC (A Murmur of Fire in the Vein), and Amethyst Jackson (Bonne Foi). Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search 3— DC's editorial art director Mark Chiarello presents an informative orientation session that will explain how DC's Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm and MAD magazine publications. If you want to learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, this is the panel for you! To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 VIZ Media's Shonen Jump Panel— Shonen Jump is the source of the world's most popular manga, including Naruto, Bleach, and more. In this exclusive panel, fans will get the latest manga and anime news, insider information, and on-the-spot surprises. Special guest: Stan Lee, comics legend and co-creator of Ultimo! Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

10:30-11:30 Film Illustrations, Storyboards, Concept Art: The Art Behind the Images— Meet the pros who use their artistic talents to create the visual magic that producers, directors, writers, and production designers depend on to create iconic images. Panelists include moderator Len Morganti (New Moon), Harrison Ellenshaw (TRON), Dave Lowery (Cowboys and Aliens), Simeon Wilkins (Hellboy), Tim Burgard (2012), and Ricardo Delgado (How to Train Your Dragon). Room 24ABC
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Movies

 10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #9: Batman and the Empty Nest Syndrome— Does Batman become a different type of person when he has a sidekick? Join panelists Dennis O'Neil (Batman writer and editor), Michael Uslan (executive producer, Batman Films), Tommy Cash (The Workday Comic), psychologists Travis Langley (Henderson State University) and Robin Rosenberg (The Psychology of Superheroes), and neuroscientist E. Paul Zehr (Becoming Batman) as they discuss who Batman is when he works alone versus who he becomes when he works with Bat-family members. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 303: Oh, And Another Thing...— Noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of the sold-out The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, returns to deal with the more advanced (and often complicated) issues facing the creative community, particularly in light of the ever-expanding worlds of new media. Creators aren't the only ones facing potential problems and issues—publishers, distributors, retailers, and even the ultimate consumers can find themselves facing legal issues they never expected. Infringements, misuse, tarnishment, dilution, knockoffs, lawsuits, satires, parodies, fair use, blogs, podcasts, tweets, and cybersquatters are just some of the many potential problems that may arise once creative works and products become accessible to others. This session explores how copyright and trademark rights are enforced, how one's legal muscles may be flexed, and what to do when finding yourself in a legal minefield. Plus, time permitting, discussion about recent legal decisions and pending cases that are likely to affect the field of popular culture and how they might play an important role in your creative and business plans. Note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.] Room 30CDE
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

 11:00-12:00 Spotlight on Jillian Tamaki— Comic-Con special guest Jillian Tamaki has taken both the illustration and comics worlds by storm. Her graphic novel Skim was a New York Times Best Book of the Year, and also was nominated for a Governor General Award and for three Eisner Awards. Her drawings can be found in the New York Times, Oprah, New Yorker, and Esquire. Tamaki will discuss the process of Skim, collaborating with a writer, and the difference between comics and illustration. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 Reading with Brains: The Rise and Unrelenting Stamina of Zombie Fiction— Authors and survivors include Amelia Beamer (The Loving Dead), Max Brooks (The Zombie Survival Guide), Seth Grahame-Smith (Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Slayer), Mira Grant (The Newsflesh trilogy). Walter Greatshell (Xombies: Apocalypticon), Jonathan Maberry (Rot & Ruin), Ryan Mecum (Zombie Haiku), John Skipp (Zombies: Encounters with the Hungry Dead), and Joan Frances Turner (Dust). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart, Mysterious Galaxy. Room 7AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 Comics in the Library— How are comics used in libraries? This panel discusses the variety of ways that libraries around the countries have begun to integrate comics into their collections and programming. Special attention is paid to the following subjects: comics for early readers; nonfiction comics, comics for adult readers. Presented by Francisca Goldsmith (Infopeople), Merideth Jenson-Benjamin (Glendale Public Library), JoAnn Jonas (San Diego County Library), Tuan Nguyen (Texas Maverick Graphic Novel List), Jill Patterson (OC Public Libraries), and comics creator Raina Telgemeier (Smile). Moderated by John Hogan (The Graphic Novel Reporter). Room 8
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Adam Hughes— Award-winning artist Adam Hughes will demonstrate sketching with grayscale Copic Markers. Adam is particularly known for his cover art, some of which has been recently published into a hardcover coffeetable book. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-11:45 Family Guy— A freakin' sweet discussion on all things Family Guy with Seth MacFarlane, Alex Borstein, Seth Green, and others. And don't miss never-before-seen clips of the third Star Wars parody. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

11:00-12:00 Hollywood and Ghost Recon Join Forces— Little Minx, a company of Ridley Scott and Associates (RSA), presents Oscar-winning director François Alaux (Logorama), associate producer and technical advisor to all RSA films Harry Humphries, and a feature actor from the short film, who will be joined by Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Solider video game studio associate producer Adrian Lacey in a panel discussing the upcoming short film, as well as connections between the film and the game. Attendees will be treated to the world premiere debut of the film trailer, as well as a live demo of the upcoming video game. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Animation | Games | Movies

11:00-12:00 Spirituality in Comics— How can comics help communicate timeless truths through new media to new audiences? Discuss the latest trends of spiritual themes in comics with moderator Scott Shuford of the Christian Comic Arts Society and panelists Holly Golightly (School Bites), K. J. Kolka (Cardinal Adventures), and Clint Johnson (Faithwalker). Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops

11:15-12:15 The Event: World-Premiere Pilot Screening and Q&A with Cast and Producers— Debuting on NBC this fall, the highly anticipated conspiracy thriller The Event follows an unlikely hero who gets entangled in one of the government's biggest cover-up operations that could ultimately change the fate of mankind. Be the first to watch the pilot episode. Moderated by E! News' Kristin Dos Santos, participate in a Q&A session with the cast: Jason Ritter (The Class), Blair Underwood (In Treatment), Laura Innes (ER), Sarah Roemer (Disturbia), Zeljko Ivanek (Damages), Ian Anthony Dale (Daybreak), and the producers: Evan Katz (24), Steve Stark (Medium), Jeffrey Reiner (Friday Night Lights), Nick Wauters (The 4400), and Jim Wong (The X-Files). Room 6A
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

11:15-12:15 Marvel: Cup O' Joe— This is it, Mighty Marvel fans—the no-holds-barred, anything-goes, full-of-surprises panel you've waited for all year! Marvel's EEK (editor-in-chief) and CCO Joe Quesada takes on all questions, shocks the audience with jaw-dropping announcements, and keeps you guessing with surprise guests. You never know who will show up, but you better be here, because this is the panel that everyone will be talking about! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

 11:15-12:15 Spotlight on Gerard Way— Comic-Con special guest Gerard Way, writer/creator of The Umbrella Academy, is joined by guests in a 60-minute deconstruction of the comic book industry, featuring helicopter rides and Jonesy the Human Ferret. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

11:30-12:30 Will Eisner, The Dreamer— Will Eisner played a central role in the first seven decades of comics history. Many times during his career, he reinvented sequential art and himself to overcome new challenges. He was a true dreamer, and these panelists hope to show you that side of him: Denis Kitchen (artist, author, publisher, and Will Eisner's agent and longtime friend), Scott McCloud (artist, author, and theoretician about comics and sequential art), Dennis O'Neil (comic book writer and editor for Marvel Comics and DC Comics), Paul Levitz (writer, former president/publisher, DC Comics), and Michael Schumacher (bestselling author and Biographer with a new biography of Will Eisner due out this fall). This is your chance to learn more about the "Father of the Graphic Novel." Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Tributes | Writers & Writing

11:30-12:30 Dragon Ball Z Kai Voice Actor Panel— Ask a question of your favorite Dragon Ball Z Kai voice actors! Meet Seán Schemmel, the voice of Goku; voice director Christopher R. Sabat, the voice of Piccolo, Vegeta, and more; and producer Justin Cook, the voice of Raditz. Ask these three well-established voice actors what they enjoyed most about rerecording this epic, action-packed, redubbed version of Dragon Ball Z, true to creator Akira Toriyama's original vision, or anything else you ever wanted to know about Dragon Ball Z Kai, currently airing on Nicktoons. Room 5AB
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Animation | Anime & Manga | Television

11:30-12:30 Shazam! The Golden Age of the World's Mightiest Mortal— Author/designer Chip Kidd (Mythology, Bat-Manga, Rough Justice), author/producer Michael Uslan (Archie Marries...), and Charles Kochman (executive editor, Abrams ComicArts) celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Big Red Cheese in this panel and slideshow discussion celebrating Kidd's upcoming fall release from Abrams ComicArts, Shazam! The Golden Age of the World's Mightiest Mortal. Room 9
Categories:  Anniversaries | Comics | Superheroes

11:30-12:30 Nickelodeon: Hartman's Heroes: The Fairly OddParents and T.U.F.F. Puppy— Butch Hartman, creator of The Fairly OddParents and Danny Phantom, and his all-star team -- story editor Ray DeLaurentis (Shaggy and Scooby-Doo: Get a Clue!), art director George Goodchild (Danny Phantom), and producer Dave Thomas (El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera) -- present Nickelodeon's new animated action/comedy T.U.F.F. Puppy, starring iCarly's Jerry Trainor. Plus, you'll get a sneak peek at what's in store for Fairly OddParents as they prepare for the show's 10th anniversary! Then, be the first to view never-before-seen footage of T.U.F.F. Puppy. Moderated by Stacey Kim, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Kids | Television

 11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #10: Superhero Comics as Meta-Fiction— Matt Yockey (UC Irvine) uses "The True Story of Batman and Robin" and David Mazzucchelli's self-reflexive afterword in Batman: Year One to look at the paradoxical relationship of fans and publishers. Whitney Donaldson (California State University, Long Beach) details the self-referential, metafictional, and narrative complexity of Watchmen. Karen Healey (University of Melbourne) argues that contemporary superhero comics are essentially corporate-owned fan fiction and proposes a theoretical approach that emphasizes the fluidity of texts composed in knowing reference to other works. Andrew J. Friedenthal (University of Texas at Austin) uses Crisis on Infinite Earths as a lens to examine how metatextual continuity creates a "narrative" of superhero universes out of the "chronicle" of comic book history. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

11:45-12:30 The Cleveland Show— Join the cast and producers of The Cleveland Show for a sneak peek at Season Two, a live table read of one act of Cleveland's upcoming trip to Comic-Con, and an audience Q&A session featuring Seth MacFarlane, Mike Henry, Rich Appel, Sanaa Lathan, and Kevin Michael Richardson. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

11:45-1:15 Warner Bros.: Green Lantern, Sucker Punch, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows— Warner Bros. showcases three eagerly awaited upcoming new films in this Hall H presentation!
Green Lantern— Get a first look at the upcoming sci-fi action adventure Green Lantern, directed by Martin Campbell. Green Lantern is an epic adventure that crosses galaxies to bring to life the legendary Silver Age superhero Hal Jordan, who is chosen by the ring itself to become the first human member of the Green Lantern Corps and take on the vast and powerful Parallax as it threatens to destroy the world. The film stars Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan, Blake Lively as Carol Ferris, Peter Sarsgaard as Dr. Hector Hammond, and Mark Strong as Sinestro.

Sucker Punch— Fasten your seatbelt for a sneak peek at the dark action fantasy Sucker Punch, from director Zack Snyder, who previewed his films 300 and Watchmen at past Comic-Cons. A group of young girls escape the dark reality of their lives through their vivid imagination, which takes them to various fantasy locations in different realms. The ensemble cast features Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Carla Gugino, Jena Malone, Jamie Chung, and Jon Hamm.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows—Every saga has a final chapter. Kick off the year of Harry Potter with a first look at the coming screen adaptation of J. K. Rowling's final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, with a program created just for Comic-Con fans. One way. One hero. One destiny. Don't miss it!
Hall H
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Comics | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes

 12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Peter Bagge— Comic-Con special guest Peter Bagge talks to Fantagraphics' Jason T. Miles about his work, including the legendary Buddy Bradley stories in Hate and his new graphic novels, Apocalypse Nerd and Other Lives. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Humor & Satire | Writers & Writing

12:00-1:00 Fang Girls and Fang Boys: The Popularity of Vampire Lit— Authors of vampire fiction for young adults and adults discuss the appeal of their worlds and characters. Authors include Charlaine Harris (the Sookie Stackhouse Series), Heather Brewer (the Chronicles of Vladimir Tod), Rachel Caine (the Morganville Vampires series), Christopher Farnsworth (Blood Oath: The President's Vampire), Chris Marie Green (the Vampire Babylon series), Richelle Mead (the Vampire Academy series), and Jeanne C. Stein (the Anna Strong series). Moderated by Brian Truitt, associate editor, USA Weekend Magazine/USA Today. Room 7AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

12:00-1:00 IDW Publishing: Infestation 2011— In 2011, IDW will infest the comics world in new and exciting -- and potentially disturbing -- ways. EIC/CCO Chris Ryall, editors Andy Schmidt and Scott Dunbier, and creators offer a lively discussion of IDW's upcoming titles, including at least two big and unexpected announcements, as well as the first hint of "Infestation," IDW's big 2011 event! Room 8
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 Street Fighter Mania!: SSFIV and Beyond!— Producer Super Street Fighter IV producer Yoshinori Ono shares his thoughts on SSFIV and presents his exciting vision for the future of the franchise. Experience why everyone can't get enough of Street Fighter! Featuring Seth Killian, Street Fighter special advisor. Followed by a Q&A session. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games

 12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Session: Terry Moore: Drawing Characters with Character— Learn what it takes to draw characters whose distinctive actions define them on the page. In Echo and Strangers in Paradise Terry Moore has established himself as a master for expressing a wide range of emotions through his characters. Bring your sketchbook and follow along as Moore shows you the secrets of how to make your characters "act" on the page in this CBLDF Master Session. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF's Art Auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | CBLDF Events | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 The Venture Bros.— Creators Jackson Publick and Doc Hammer host a laissez-faire chat about—what else?—The Venture Bros. They'll be joined by Patrick Warburton (voice of Brock Samson) and James Urbaniak (voice of Dr. Venture) as they screen sneak preview clips from the upcoming season, shamelessly plug their new DVD and line of action figures, and take questions from the audience. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-1:00 Indyfans— The Indiana Jones Fan Group returns to Comic-Con to discuss all things Indy. There are always giveaways, special guests, and you never know what to expect when the Indyfans come to town. Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

12:30-1:30 MTV Games— Harmonix have revolutionized the world of music video games with groundbreaking titles such as Guitar Hero and Rock Band, bringing virtual rock to your living room. This year, the world's premier music video game company is set to rock the world again with Rock Band 3 and Dance Central, bringing gamers ever closer to the real thing. Join the Harmonix team for a fast-paced panel discussion, insane performances, and some fun surprises! Room 4
Categories:  Games

12:30-1:30 Costume Designers and Costume Illustrators: Designing for Feature Films— Costume Designers work in collaboration with Directors, Production Designers, Directors of Photography and Actors in creating fantastic and memorable stories told via moving images. Characters created by writers and Comic Book Illustrators are made real for the screen via the artistry of Costume Designers. Meet the men and women who are the Costume Designers & Costume Illustrators on this year's blockbuster films. Moderator Susan Nininger, Costume Designer (Bodyguard), and Member of  the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, hosts Costume Designers and Illustrators from CDG, local 892: Michael Wilkinson and Phillip Boutte Jr. (Jonah Hex), Christine Bieselin Clark (Co-Designer, Tron) , Ha Nguyen (Priest), Laura Jean Shannon (Scott Pilgrim), and Shawnelle Cherry (10,000 Days). Room 5AB
Categories:  Comics | Costuming | Movies

12:30-1:45 DC Universe: Event Horizon— Ian Sattler, senior story editor, and your favorite writers and artists are here for the main event: The DC Universe! What lies ahead for your favorite heroes and series? Got a question for your favorite DCU creator? Come on by! There's no greater gathering of top-tier creative talent! Room 6A
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

12:30-1:45 Quick Draw!— It's just about the most fun you can have sitting down at Comic-Con! Host Mark Evanier keeps Sergio Aragonés, Scott Shaw!, and this year's guest artist and dinosaur expert William Stout on their toes as they draw -- real quick! -- whatever he tells them to draw! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

 12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Brian Michael Bendis— The controversial Marvel writer and Comic-Con special guest Brian Michael Bendis turns his spotlight panel into a live taping of the popular Word Balloon Bendis tapes. Word Balloon podcast host John Suitress will moderate the panel and take questions from the audience, with nothing off limits. Bendis will also be giving away limited-edition variant covers of his new creator-owned series Scarlet. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Stan Lee @ BOOM!— Stan Lee and Mark Waid reveal the details behind Stan Lee's new series at BOOM!, including two special mystery guests that will blow your mind. This is it, people. You wanted to know who is writing the other two books alongside Waid? Now you'll know! Room 9
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

12:30-1:30 Comics Across all Media— Paul Feig (creator of Freaks & Geeks), Chip Kidd (Shazam!: The Golden Age of the World's Mightiest Mortal), Whitney Matheson (USA Today's Pop Candy blog), Brad Meltzer (The Inner Circle), and Michael Uslan (The Dark Knight) are five superstars who make headlines in television, the graphic arts, journalism, novels, and film. But they all have comics in common. As they reunite for another visit, join them for a discussion of all things nerd. It'll be like a 21st century Breakfast Club -- but with even better references. Moderated by audiobook star Scott Brick (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant). Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Movies | Television

12:45-1:30 Futurama— Celebrate Futurama's triumphant re-return to the airwaves! World-premiere footage will offer an exciting and informative glimpse of Comic-Con in the year 3010. Panelists include executive producers Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, cast members Billy West, John DiMaggio, Katey Sagal, and Maurice LaMarche, director Crystal Chesney-Thompson, writers Ken Keeler and Patric M. Verrone, and animation producer Claudia Katz. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Gabrielle Bell— Join Comic-Con special guest Gabrielle Bell (Cecil and Jordan in New York, Lucky). Gabrielle Bell has been featured in McSweeneys, Vice and the Believer. The title story of her most recent book, Cecil and Jordan in New York has been adapted for the screen by Michel Gondry in the triptych Tokyo! She is currently serializing her Ignatz award-winning autobiographcal comics Lucky online. Gabrielle Bell will present a slideshow and discuss her work with Tom Spurgeon (www.thecomicsreporter) Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 The World That Is God of War— Ru Weerasuriya and Dana Jan (God of War: Chains of Olympus), and others have helped to expand the God of War universe with their smash hit on PlayStation Portable, God of War: Chains of Olympus. Now they're back, along with their talented team at Ready At Dawn Studios to expand on this blockbuster mythological world with God of War: Ghost of Sparta. Join Ru, Dana, and team for this one-on-one interview and Q&A session! Room 7AB
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-2:00 The Write Stuff: Creating Genre Television— An incredible insider look at the making of genre television from the scribes behind some of today's hottest shows who share their candid thoughts on how to make the series we love (and sometimes loathe)...and beyond. Featuring Javier Grillo-Marxuach (The Middleman, Lost), Gabrielle Stanton (The Vampire Diaries, Moonlight), Jesse Alexander (Heroes, Lost, Alias), Jose Molina (Castle, Firefly), Robert Hewitt Wolfe (The Gates, Deep Space Nine), Charles Murray (V, Criminal Minds), Sarah Watson (Middleman, Parenthood), Ashley E. Miller (Fringe, Terminator), Steve Kriozere (NCIS, V.I.P.), Steve Melching (Clone Wars, Transformers, The Batman), and Mark A. Altman (Castle, Elvis Van Helsing). Moderated by Creative Screenwriting's Jeff Goldsmith. Room 8
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Allison Sohn— Trading card and sketchcard artist Allison Sohn will demonstrate sketching with color Copic Markers. Allison works primarily with Copic Markers for her printed works as well as her sketchcards. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 Hasbro: Marvel Toys— Jerry Jivoin and Julien Lee (Hasbro Marketing) and Joshua Lamb, Dave Vonner, and Dwight Stall (Hasbro Design) present the latest toys from the Iron Man, Spider-Man, Marvel Universe, and Super Hero Squad toy lines for 2010. Also, get a sneak peek at the 2011 lines! Includes Q&A time. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Superheroes

 1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #11: Using Comic Book Characters For Cultural Critique— Comic book creators and scholars are using comic book characters -- existing ones and their own creations -- as a form of cultural critique in both the academy and in the larger popular culture. Join Patricia Williams (Columbia University), John Jennings (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), Kane Anderson (UC Santa Barbara), John Jackson (University of Pennsylvania), Stanford Carpenter (School of the Art Institute of Chicago) for a discussion of how comics characters -- including President Obama's depiction as a superhero -- act as proxies for leveling cultural critiques. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: Darick Robertson: Body Language in Sequential Storytelling— Bring your sketchbook and learn how to express action, attitude, and meaning through your characters' body language in this CBLDF Master Session. In his work on The Boys, Transmetropolitan, and Conan, Darick Robertson has had to express story through his drawings of a wide variety of characters. Follow along as he demonstrates how body language can add dimension to your sequential storytelling. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF's Art Auction. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | CBLDF Events | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 Sanctuary— Walk on the wild side at Syfy's highly anticipated Sanctuary panel. Moderated by Josh Gates (Destination Truth) and featuring Amanda Tapping (Helen Magnus), Robin Dunne (Will Zimmerman), and executive producers Martin Wood and Damian Kindler, you'll experience this revolutionary Syfy original series like never before. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 The Lost Podcast with Jay and Jack— Father and son team Jay and Jack Glatfelter have one of the oldest and biggest podcasts dedicated to ABC'S Lost. Discuss the stirring series finale, and learn about the huge dedicated online community for TV's most mind-twisting drama. Join Jay and Jack for this special interview and Q&A session! Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:30-2:30 Comics Criticism— Comics are a staple of the arts and book review sections of everything from The New York Times and Publishers Weekly to a current golden age of published biography and history, such as Gerard Jones's Men of Tomorrow, R. C. Harvey's Meanwhile..., and David Michaelis's Schulz and Peanuts. Some of the nation's leading critics discuss the state of the art and the state of its journalism, 2010. Panelists include Gary Groth (The Comics Journal), Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics), Brian Doherty (Radicals for Capitalism), Ben Schwartz (editor, Best American Comics Criticism), and R. Fiore (Funnybook Roulette). Room 4
Categories:  Comics

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on China Miéville— Multi-award-winning author and Comic-Con special guest China Miéville talks about his books -- including The City & the City, and his most recent, Kraken -- in this special Spotlight panel. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Top Cow: "We Create" Multimedia— Top Cow founder Marc Silvestri (Pilot Season, X-Men/Dark Avengers), president Matt Hawkins (Alibi), and publisher Filip Sablik offer an exciting and lively multimedia presentation about Top Cow's plans for 2010 and 2011 in comics, film, television, and much more. Be the first to hear announcements and updates on film projects including Witchblade, Magdalena, Alibi, Wanted, and A-Team, plus announcements on new comic projects with creators including Ron Marz (Artifacts), Jeff Katz (American Original), and Phil Hester (The Darkness), along with surprise guests including directors, screenwriters, producers, and more! Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies | Television | Webcomics

1:30-2:15 The Simpsons— Now entering its record-annihilating 22nd season on Fox, The Simpsons has won 25 Emmy awards, has been the subject of a smash feature film in 2007, and has inspired an awesome ride at Universal Studios -- and Homer Simpson was just named the greatest television character of the last 20 years by Entertainment Weekly. Get insights into the daily doings of this series from creator Matt Groening, showrunner Al Jean, executive producer Matt Selman, and supervising director Mike Anderson. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

1:30-2:30 Behind the Scenes with Sid & Marty Krofft: A Look at the Past, Present and Future— Sid & Marty Krofft are iconic names in the world of children's television and true pioneers in what they have achieved throughout their long career. From their puppeteer beginnings to their timeless shows HR Pufnstuf, The Bugaloos, Sigmund the Sea Monster, and Land of the Lost to their new feature films and endeavors in Creations from the World of Jack Kirby, the Krofft brothers create amazing entertainment for everyone to enjoy and love. Sid & Marty Krofft look back at what they have achieved, then look to the future with Joe Ruby and Ken Spears (Scooby Doo, Thundar the Barbarian), who have partnered with the Kroffts in Creations from the World of Jack Kirby. Panel and Q&A moderated by producer Bonny Dore. Free exclusive gift will be given out to attendees while supplies last. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Television

1:30-2:30 Overture: Let Me In— The cast and filmmakers of Let Me In, a haunting and provocative thriller written and directed by filmmaker Matt Reeves (Cloverfield), give the Hall H audience a sneak peek at this highly anticipated film. Let Me In is an astonishing coming-of-age story involving a young girl (Kick Ass's Chloe Moretz) and an alienated boy (Kodi Smit-McPhee from The Road) unlike any you have seen. Based on the bestselling Swedish novel Lat den Ratte Komma (Let The Right One In) by John Ajvide Lindqvist and the highly acclaimed film of the same name, Let Me In takes audiences straight to the troubled heart of adolescent longing and loneliness. Academy Award–nominee Richard Jenkins (The Visitor) also stars in this exhilarating reboot of the beloved original. Hall H
Categories:  Movies

1:45-3:15 Cartoon Voices I— It's the first big panel of the weekend devoted to the actors behind the voices of your favorite cartoon characters! Mark Evanier and Earl Kress talk with April Winchell (Phineas & Ferb), Candy Milo (Jimmy Neutron), Gregg Berger (The Garfield Show), Tom Kane (Star Wars: Clone Wars), Jason Marsden and (Teen Titans). Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Games | Movies | Television

1:45-2:45 Cartoon Network: Action Adventure Animation— Meet the creators and talent behind some of Cartoon Network's biggest boy heroes, Ben 10 and Generator Rex. From Man of Action meet Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, Duncan Rouleau, and Steven T. Seagle along with the Ben 10: Ultimate Alien team members Glenn Murakami (supervising producer), Dwayne McDuffie (story editor), Yuri Lowenthal (voice of Ben), and Greg Cipes (voice of Kevin). Generator Rex panelists include John Fang (supervising producer), Rob Hoegee (story editor), Daryl Sabara (voice of Rex), and Wally Kurth (voice of Agent Six). Also make sure not to miss a first look at Sym-Bionic Titan with Genndy Tartakovsky, Bryan Andrews, Paul Rudish, and Darrick Bachman. Room 6DE
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Animation | Kids | Television

2:00-3:00 Tokyopop Panel— Tokyopop editorial staff, including senior editor Lillian Diaz-Przybyl, will announce new book publishing acquisitions and digital products, followed by a prize giveaway and Q&A session. Get the latest news about ongoing Tokyopop series, including updates to Hetalia and Priest. Room 3
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics

2:00-3:00 Green Lantern: Emerald Empire— No evil shall escape this panel's sight as the top creative teams on the Green Lantern books drop hints on upcoming stories and take on your questions! Led by group editor Eddie Berganza with Geoff Johns (Green Lantern, The Flash), Tony Bedard (Green Lantern Corps), Joe Prado (Brightest Day), and Ivan Reis (Brightest Day). Room 6A
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Teching Out on TV— Featuring hit talent and producers/technical directors from top CBS shows, panelists will discuss the role that technology plays on each show, how the characters relate to and use technology, and how the stars themselves use technology. The panelists include Anthony Zuiker (creator and executive producer, CSI), Pauley Perrette (NCIS), Barrett Foa (NCIS: Los Angeles), Kirsten Vangsness (Criminal Minds), and Rich Catalani (CSI producer and former criminalist). Room 7AB
Categories:  Television

 2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Dave Dorman— Eisner Award-winning illustrator and Comic-Con special guest Dave Dorman is best known for his stunning depictions from the Star Wars universe. Dave talks about his paintings and his comics work, including the eagerly awaited sequel to his Steampunk graphic novel Rail -- continuing stories set in his creator-owned universe, The Wasted Lands. Room 8
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy

 2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Milo Manara— Known the world over for his elegant and erotic art and storytelling techniques, Milo Manara is a Comic-Con special guest for the very first time! Manara will talk about his long and varied career, which now includes a Marvel Comics book, X-Women, written by fellow special guest Chris Claremont. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

 2:00-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #12: Poster Session— Want to go in depth with a comics scholar? On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the PowerPoints of the poster presenters will be available to read in printed "poster books," and then the scholars will be available in this session to discuss their presentations in small-group and one-on-one discussions.
Jim Miller (Henderson State University) discusses how the interplay of images in Dan Clowes's Eightball creates literary comics that are very real and sexual in nature, and why this necessary element of his work leads to successful narrative.

Ashleigh Mayes (Henderson State University) looks at the functions of anthropomorphic animal characters in the depiction of historical events or tragic fiction in works such as Maus.

Adam Streed (UCSD) shows how sequential art can be used to illustrate Bertrand Russell's paradox, detailed in Logicomix, in various ways that are impossible outside the comics medium.

Anthony Pate (Henderson State University) connects the portrayal of sexuality and violence in the works of Alan Moore with the satiric depiction of promiscuity among nobles and subsequent effects of decadent living in the sequential storytelling of William Hogarth.

Tanner Gibson (Southern Wesleyan University) uncovers the influence of photographic pioneer Eadweard Muybridge on the development of sequential art.

Dustin Nevill (Henderson State University) reports on surveys of convention goers on their perception of Spider-Man, Batman, and Superman and why these characters endure as the world's best-known superheroes.

Richard Purnell (Stark State University) investigates how poetry and comics work as a nontraditional union of content and form.

Marko Head and Greg Fischer (Henderson State University) examine the comics and films of Hayoa Miyazaki from idea to process to completion as contemporary art.

Nicole Smith (Henderson State University) examines the issues and challenges of drawing the cover art for The Workday Comic, a collaborative variant on Scott McCloud's 24-Hour Comics.

Henry Andrews (Grand Comics Database) demonstrates how the Grand Comics Database can be used to conduct academic research.

Naysan Mojgani (UC, San Diego) analyze how cosplayers identify with the race and ethnicity of the comics and anime characters they choose to role-play and challenge the essentializing, nationalist politics of the United States in radical, populist ways.

Stephanie Matlock (Henderson State University) reports preliminary findings from a study of how personality variables correlate with degrees of willingness to suspend disbelief among comic book readers.

Samantaha Deorge (School of the Art Institute) compares the post-feminism of Wonder Woman and the radical feminism of Tank Girl as representative of the British and American portraits of superheroines.

Poster Panel: Comics and Video Games: Alex Langley (University of North Texas) correlates addictive behavior among comics readers and video game players.

Matt Ragan (Henderson State University) argues that demonization of media forms-- comics in the Fifties and videogames more recently—leads to greater status for these forms as the generations that grew up with them come to higher statuses in society.

Green Lantern Poster Panel: Erica Ash (Henderson State University) looks at how Martian Manhunter's survivor guilt drives him to heroism, even as a reanimated Black Lantern.

Jarett Kobek (www.kobek.com) analyzes the O'Neil/Adams Green Lantern run to ask whether America can still recognize itself in the travails of the hard-traveling heroes.

Gabrielle Lissauer (American Jewish University) ask whether the creation of Parallax as a separate entity retcons the tarnish done to Hal Jordan's heroic identity in order to keep him heroically pure.
Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

2:00-3:00 Writing Seminar with Marv Wolfman— Marv Wolfman (God of War, Teen Titans, Crisis on Infinite Earths), in this annual writing seminar, returns to basics as he discusses the building blocks of putting together a story, creating tension, and what the "three act structure" really means. There will also be time for a Q&A session. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 The Guild— Now in its fourth season, The Guild is a multi-award-winning independent web series that started on YouTube and has grown into a worldwide phenomenon with over 50 million views, a groundbreaking distribution deal with Microsoft, a chart-topping song and music video, and a comic book from Dark Horse Comics. Writer/producer and Comic-Con special guest Felicia Day, producer Kim Evey, director Sean Becker, and the cast of The Guild including Wil Wheaton are on hand for a discussion and Q&A, along with the debut of never-before-seen content and other surprises. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Fandom | Games | Humor & Satire | Movies | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Little Lulu Fan Group— One of the most memorable kids' comics ever created, Little Lulu has generated a fan following around the world. Learn more about this classic comics character and the renewed interest in the other works of the great John Stanley, and join in for the annual scripted reading of a Golden Age Little Lulu story. All are welcome! Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Fandom

2:30-3:30 Diamond Select Toys Presents: Minimates!— See the exciting new direction that Diamond Select is taking Minimates, with an in-depth look at new lines such as MAX (Mobile Action X-treme), Calico Jack Pirate Raiders, and Halo! These new lines offer a playability feature that will take the Minimates brand to a whole new level and put them in a league of their own! Plus, get the latest new on continuing lines like Marvel, Ghostbusters, and more. Learn all about the #1 block figure in the world! Room 4
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Movies | Superheroes | Television

2:30-3:30 From Words to Pictures— An increasing array of prose writers are bringing their works to comics or writing comics in addition to novels. Hear from some of the best about why they love working in the  comics  medium, including Alex Irvine, Joe Landsdale, Max Brooks, Mario Acevedo, and others. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comics | Writers & Writing

2:30-3:30 Partners in Image Comics— Image Comics partners Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead, Invincible), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Todd McFarlane (Spawn), Marc Silvestri (Witchblade), and Jim Valentino (ShadowHawk) get together for a boisterous discussion of all things Image. Join the partners as they talk about ongoing and future projects, and become part of the discussion during a Q&A session. Room 9
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

2:30-3:15 V Screening and Q&A— The cast and creative team behind this thrilling drama series about the world's first alien encounter make their return to Comic-Con. Actors Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Morris Chestnut (Boyz n the Hood), Joel Gretsch (The 4400), Logan Huffman (America), Laura Vandervoort (Smallville), Charles Mesure (Xena: Warrior Princess), Morena Baccarin (Firefly), and Scott Wolf (Go) join executive producers Scott Rosenbaum (Chuck, The Shield) and Steve Pearlman (Related) for a Q&A session with fans and to screen a special highlight reel from the show's first season. From HDFilms in association with Warner Bros. Television, V will return midseason on ABC, and V: The Complete First Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD this fall. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:30-3:30 Archie: Stan Lee Comics Debuts— Stan Lee, Andy Heyward, and Jon Goldwater introduce an exciting new line of comics from the mind of comics legend Stan Lee. Stan will talk about Stan Lee's Super Seven and all the other new titles coming from Stan Lee comics over the next year. Be the first to get in on this exciting new project from the one and only Stan Lee! Moderated by Rik Offenberger. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

3:00-4:00 Queer Press Grant Roundup— Prism Comics, the nonprofit organization promoting LGBT comics, creators, and fans, started an annual Queer Press Grant in 2005 to help queer cartoonists self-publish their comics. Five years and many thousands of dollars later, the QPG has helped out an impressive lineup of some of the best upcoming LGBT cartoonists and remains one of the only grants available for comics creators today. Prism will kick off the submission process for the 2010 Queer Press Grant at Comic-Con. Moderator Roger Klorese (Prism Comic's Publications Chair) and past recipients Justin Hall (Glamazonia the Uncanny Super Tranny), Ed Luce (Wuvable Oaf), Steve MacIsaac (Shirtlifter), and Eric Orner (The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green) as they discuss applying for the grant, what they've been up to since winning it, and what's next for both their comics and the grant in 2010. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

 3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Ray Bradbury— He was at the very first Comic-Con and we kind of think he'll be at the very last one, too, far off in the future. Science fiction author Ray Bradbury is literally a national treasure. Ray talks with biographer Sam Weller and moderator writer/producer Arnold Kunert in his yearly visit with his fans at Comic-Con. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection: Jonah Hex, Green Arrow, and Beyond!— Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation roll out the next wave of DC Showcase animated shorts with the world premiere of Jonah Hex, an advance look at Green Arrow, and details regarding the upcoming compilation Blu-ray/DVD release anchored by Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam. Executive producer Bruce Timm (DC Universe Animated Original Movies), Jonah Hex voice Thomas Jane (Hung), producer Alan Burnett (The Batman), acclaimed comics writer and fiction author Joe Lansdale, and writer/producer Greg Weisman (Young Justice) present a peek at three never-before-seen shorts. Room 7AB
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies | Superheroes | Webcomics

3:00-4:00 Comics Reprint Revolution— For comics fans, the vintage reprint revolution keeps getting bigger and better! Comics Reporter's Tom Spurgeon talks with Craig Yoe (Krazy Kat, Popeye, Jetta), Dean Mullaney (editor of Library of American Comics for IDW: Dick Tracy, Little Orphan Annie, Secret Agent Corrigan), Daniel Herman (Hermes Press: Buck Rogers, The Phantom), Gary Groth (Fantagraphics: Peanuts, Prince Valiant, Captain Easy), Peggy Burns (Drawn and Quarterly: John Stanley Library, Walt & Skeezix), Steve Saffel (Titan Books, Beetle Bailey, Simon & Kirby Library) and Charles Pelto (Classic Comics Press: Mary Perkins, On Stage, The Heart of Juliet Jones, Big Ben Bolt) about their publications reprinting some of the very best of comic books and comic strips. Room 8
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics

3:00-4:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Scott Brick— Award-winning audiobook voice artist Scott Brick will present information on the acting and audio narration process, which will include how to break down a page of script into a narration format. Room 18
Categories:  Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Nickelodeon's Fanboy & Chum Chum: Blah! Blah! Blah!— Squeeze into your tighty-whities and join executive producer/creator Eric Robles (The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy), along with executive producer/story editor Steve Tompkins (The Bernie Mac Show), and supervising producer Jason Meier (Looney Tunes: Back in Action) for a FAN-tastic sneak peek into the crazy world of Fanboy & Chum Chum. The all-star cast -- David Hornsby (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia), Nika Futterman (Star Wars: Clone Wars), Josh Duhamel (Transformers), Jamie Kennedy (The Ghost Whisperer), and Jeff Glenn Bennett (Penguins of Madagascar) -- perform a live table read, followed by an exclusive look at the never-before-aired episode, "Freeze Tag." Screening will be followed by a Q&A with cast and crew. Moderated by Megan Casey, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Kids | Television

3:00-4:00 Master Digital Color Styles & Effects— Delve deeper into the world of digital color with Hi-Fi's Brian Miller (Justice League: Generation Lost) and Kristy Miller (Ben 10) guiding you on a journey through color styles and genres. See firsthand how color styles are created for animation, superhero, alternative, and web comics. Watch and learn as Brian demonstrates advanced techniques for digital color and shows you how to master a variety of color styles and create stunning special effects, plus a bonus demonstration of click-a-tone grayscale for Manga comics. Q&A if time permits. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Webcomics

3:00-4:00 NBC's Community Cast and Creative Team— The cast and producers -- Joel McHale (The Soup), Chevy Chase (Hot Tub Time Machine), Donald Glover (30 Rock), Yvette Nicole Brown (Rules of Engagement), Danny Pudi (Greek), Gillian Jacobs (Choke), Alison Brie (Mad Men) and executive producers Dan Harmon (The Sarah Silverman Program), Joe Russo (Arrested Development), Anthony Russo (Arrested Development), Neil Goldman (Scrubs), Garrett Donovan (Scrubs) and Russ Krasnoff (The Soloist) -- are on hand for an animated discussion and Q&A session about what's in store for viewers this fall. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Television

3:00-4:00 Avatar: The Last Airbender Fan Gathering— Meet fellow fans and enjoy myriad discussions and activities that will include a bit of trivia, Avatar: The Last Airbender–inspired haiku, official merchandise buzz, cosplay tips, and a sketchbook swap. Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Anime & Manga | Costuming | Fandom

3:15-4:15 No Ordinary Family: Exclusive Premiere— This is No Ordinary Panel! Michael Chiklis (The Shield), Julie Benz (Dexter), and executive producers Greg Berlanti (Green Lantern), Jon Harmon Feldman (Tru Calling), and David Semel (Heroes) present an exclusive screening of the new ABC series No Ordinary Family. After the screening, join them for a Q&A session and find out more about the superpowers that made this family go from ordinary to extraordinary overnight! Plus, everyone in the room will receive a surprise. Room 6A
Categories:  Superheroes | Television

3:15-4:15 Fringe Screening and Q&A— Fringe returns to Comic-Con as Lance Reddick and Blair Brown make their first appearance at the convention, joining fellow series stars Anna Torv , Joshua Jackson, John Noble, and Jasika Nicole plus executive producers Jeff Pinkner and J. H. Wyman for a Q&A with fans and an exclusive video presentation. Join the discussion of this critically acclaimed thriller, which explores the ever-blurring line between science fiction and reality, where hybrid monsters tear through sewers, thieves walk through walls and portals open to worlds unknown. From Bad Robot Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Fringe airs Thursdays at 9pm ET/PT on FOX, and Fringe: The Complete Second Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on September 14. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 International Comics and Graphic Novels— Comics are popular the world over and Comic-Con always includes an impressive gathering of worldwide talent. Journalist Tom Spurgeon talks with special guests Moto Hagio (Japan: Drunken Dreams), Émile Bravo (France: My Mommy is in America and she Met Buffalo Bill),  Milo Manara (Italy: Click!), and Kathryn and Stuart Immonen (Canada: Moving Pictures, Russian Olive to Red King) about graphic novels with a more international flavor. Room 4
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 DC Universe Online: The Next Legend Is You!— Superstars Jim Lee (Batman: Hush) and Mark Hamill (voice of The Joker, Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: The Animated Series) join forces with the DC Universe Online development team to reveal the exciting backstory of this action MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) game. Jim, Mark, and key members of the development team from Sony Online Entertainment discuss how an earth-shattering chain of events will make you the key to the salvation or ruin of the DC Universe when the game launches this November. All attendees will receive a DCUO VIP Beta Key! Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Games | Superheroes

3:30-5:00 Warehouse 13 and Eureka— Don't miss two of Syfy's biggest hit series in one exclusive event. Catch back-to-back Warehouse 13 and Eureka panels, featuring Warehouse 13's Eddie McClintock (Pete Lattimer), Joanne Kelly (Myka Bering), Saul Rubinek (Artie Nielsen), Allison Scagliotti (Claudia Donovan), and Jack Kenny (showrunner/executive producer) and Eureka's Colin Ferguson (Jack Carter), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (Allison Blake), Neil Grayston (Douglas Fargo), James Callis (Grant), Jaime Paglia (co-creator/executive producer/writer), and Bruce Miller (executive producer/writer). Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 Red Faction Armageddon: How to Build a Transmedia Universe— The biggest event in the mythology of one of the world's most popular video games is also a flashpoint in the launch of the Red Faction multiplatform universe. Get exclusive information about it and pick up tips on world-building and game concept development, along with info about the partnership with Syfy in this in-depth Q&A with creator Danny Bilson (EVP Core Games, THQ), Lenny Brown (director IP development, THQ), Hollywood's leading Transmedia producer Jeff Gomez (Avatar, Transformers, Tron Legacy, Men In Black 3D), Alan Seiffert (SVP, Syfy Ventures), and Erika Kennair (director, development, Syfy). Room 9
Categories:  Games | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 Robert E. Howard in Comics: Then. Now. Always.— Robert E. Howard is seen as the grandfather of the sword and sorcery fiction genre. He's created such classic characters as Kull the Conqueror, Red Sonya, and Conan the Barbarian that have lived in comics for more than 40 years! Explore worlds of magic, bravery, and savage revenge as this panel delves in to Robert E. Howard's timeless fiction in comics of the past, present and future. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Comics in the Classroom— Comics are becoming increasingly common in elementary and secondary classrooms. But how can teachers incorporate comics into their course curriculums? This panel provides practical strategies for teachers to do just that. Presented by Anastasia Betts (UCLA), Christina Blanch (Ball State University), Deborah Ford (San Diego Unified School District), and Tracy White (NYU). Moderated by Chris Butcher (The Beguiling). Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 Comics After Paper— Some forward-thinking cartoonists are designing their work to be experienced on computers, e-readers, mobile phones, and touchscreens. R. Stevens (Diesel Sweeties), Dylan Meconis (Family Man), Joshua Hale Fialkov (Tumor), and Robert Berry (Ulysses Seen), join moderator Douglas Wolk (Techland) to discuss making comics for new media. Room 3
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

4:00-5:30 Oddball Comics— As seen in the pages of Geek Monthly magazine, cartoonist Scott Shaw! (Captain Carrot and the Final Ark, Bart Simpson Comics, Simpsons Summer Shindig) brings back his ever-popular digital slide show featuring "the craziest comic books ever published!" See why Stan Lee said, "Wow, True Believers, I thought I'd seen it all, but Scott Shaw's hysterically hilarious Oddball Comics is the wildest, wackiest exposé of some of the craziest comic books I've ever seen! Or, to put it mildly, Scott's outrageous opuses are a blast!" Room 7AB
Categories:  Comics | Humor & Satire

4:00-5:00 Taking Back the Knight: Batman in the 1970s and Beyond— The 1960s Batman TV show -- fun as it was -- left the public thinking the Caped Crusader was more of a clown than a crimefighter. In the 1970s, editor Julius Schwartz, along with writer Dennis O'Neil and artist Neal Adams (mostly in collaboration with inker Dick Giordano), decided to take back the Knight to his darker origins. The resulting character became the template for the next three decades, a time span marked by Batman's huge success in films and other media. Moderator Mark Evanier talks with Comic-Con special guests Dennis O'Neil and Neal Adams about their rebirth of the Bat and with Paul Levitz on how that re-creation took Batman to even greater heights. Room 8
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Movies | Superheroes | Television

4:00-5:00 Scott Pilgrim Vol. 6: Scott Pilgrim's Finest Hour vs. The Fans— It's been six years and six volumes spanning over 1,000 pages, and you've been there since the beginning! But there's always been one burning question itching at the back of your brain that you thought would never be answered. Think no more! Ready your Q's, mind your P's, and join Scott Pilgrim creator Bryan Lee O'Malley for a battle royale as he quibbles the quips of his worst enemies...his fans! Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comics | Humor & Satire

4:00-5:00 Writing for Comics— Top comics writers Brian Michael Bendis (New Avengers, Powers, Secret Invasion), Marc Guggenheim (Wolverine, Resurrection), and Peter David (Incredible Hulk, X-Factor) offer a discussion and instructive tips on the art of writing for comics. Writers and editors speak about the process of writing and how the game is played. Want to know how stories come about and learn how to do it yourself. This is the place to start! Moderated by Comics Experience's Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Annihilation). Room 30CDE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

4:00-4:45 Screen Gems: Resident Evil: Afterlife— In a world ravaged by a virus infection that turns its victims into the Undead, Alice (Milla Jovovich) continues on her journey to find survivors and lead them to safety. Her deadly battle with the Umbrella Corporation reaches new heights, but Alice gets some unexpected help from an old friend. A new lead that promises a safe haven from the Undead takes them to Los Angeles, but when they arrive the city is overrun by thousands of Undead and Alice and her comrades are about to step into a deadly trap. The fourth installment of the hugely successful Resident Evil franchise, Resident Evil: Afterlife is again based on the wildly popular video game series and this time will be shot in 3D using the same state-of-the-art cameras created for Avatar. Writer/director Paul W. S. Anderson, along with the film's stars Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, and Wentworth Miller, will be on hand to show you some stunning 3D sequences and answer your questions. Hall H
Categories:  Games | Horror and Suspense | Movies

4:00-5:00 The Design Process for Film and Television— The making of a film or television show is a collaborative process. Costume Illustrators and Concept and Storyboard artists, serve a key position in the web of communication that is essential to filmmaking. This panel highlights the fundamental importance of illustration, as well as the seamless creativity between the key conceptual departments on favorite feature films and television productions. Moderator Harrison Ellenshaw, (Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back), hosts Costume Illustrators from CDG, Local 892: Christian Cordella (The Last Airbender), and Brian Valenzuela (Star Trek 2009), and Artists from ADG, Local 800: Benton Jew (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), Phil Saunders (Iron Man 2) and dual member (CDG and ADG) Robin Richesson (The Last Airbender). Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Costuming | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

4:15-5:15 Marvel Animation: Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes— Enter the Avengers Mansion and become a part of the team! Celebrity voice talent introduce you to top-secret Avengers files, including never-before-seen footage and two full-length episodes from the all-new Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes animated series premiering on Disney XD this fall. The road to the Avengers starts here! Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Superheroes | Television

4:15-5:00 The Vampire Diaries Screening and Q&A— The cast and creative team behind The Vampire Diaries return to take a bite out of Comic-Con! Series stars Nina Dobrev (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Paul Wesley (Roll Bounce), Ian Somerhalder (Lost), Michael Trevino (Cane), and Matt Davis (Blue Crush) join executive producers/writers Kevin Williamson (Scream) and Julie Plec (Kyle XY) to show fans a fang-tastic season-one highlight reel, followed by a Q&A session. This edgy, romantic drama quickly became the number one series on The CW in its first season. The Vampire Diaries director/co-executive producer Marcos Siega (Dexter) will moderate the panel. From Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Vampire Diaries will return for its second season this fall, airing Thursdays at 8  pm  ET/PT on The CW, and The Vampire Diaries: The Complete First Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD August 31. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:30-5:30 Welcome to The Future: Are You Sure You Want to Stay?— Speculative fiction authors discuss visions of the future, dystopian and otherwise. Authors include Samuel R. Delany (Dhalgren), Alan Dean Foster (Flinx Transcendent), Cody Goodfellow (Perfect Union), Kirsten Imani Kasai (Ice Song), Dani Kollin and Eytan Kollin (The Unincorporated War), Nnedi Okorafor (Who Fears Death), David Weber (Honor Harrington novels), David J. Williams (The Machinery Of Light), and Charles Yu (How To Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 4
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

4:30-6:00 Remembering Shel Dorf— Shel Dorf, who passed away on November 9, 2009, took a group of young comics and science fiction fans and helped mold their ambitions and passions into Comic-Con back in 1970. Shel was a lover of all things pop culture, especially comics and movies, and he helped set the bar early on for Comic-Con to be an event that focuses on a variety of the popular arts. A panel of Shel's friends -- many of whom worked with him on the early Comic-Cons -- gather to pay tribute to him, including moderator Mike Towry and Shel's brother Michael Dorf, along with Richard Alf, William Clausen, George Clayton Johnson, Greg Koudoulian, Matt Lorentz, Clayton Moore, Mike Pasqua, David Scroggy, and Phil Yeh. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Tributes

4:30-5:30 Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski— J. Michael Straczynski speaks (despite requests to the contrary) about his work on (and on and on) such comics as Superman (well, we guess it had to happen eventually) and Wonder Woman (at least they have the same fashion sense), his movies, including Shattered Union (shattered hopes that he wouldn't show up), Forbidden Planet (is that still going on?), and more he will be announcing here for the first time. Get the inside skinny on the writer's life from one of Hollywood's most prolific and hardworking writers (because you always have to work twice as hard when you don't know what you're doing). (Bob, very funny, just remember to edit this back to normal before uploading it to the Comic-Con schedule.) Room 6A
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Movies | Superheroes | Television | Writers & Writing

4:30-5:30 Disney Epic Mickey— Warren Spector (creative director, Junction Point -- Disney Interactive Studios) and Peter David (award-winning comics writer and author of upcoming Disney Epic Mickey comics) share their insights about bringing the world and characters of the Disney Epic Mickey video game to life in two media -- video games and comic books. Warren and Peter explore "Wasteland," a world of forgotten, retired and rejected creative efforts from the Disney archives, and discuss the joy and challenges associated with writing for Mickey Mouse and his "brother," Walt Disney's first cartoon star, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. The panel includes discussion, gameplay demo featuring never-before-seen areas, concept art, previews of comic pages and Q&A. Room 9
Categories:  Comics | Games | Kids

4:30-6:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Jason Kruse and Rob Worley— Artist/animator Jason Kruse and writer Rob Worley will cover the collaborative creative process for making comic books for young readers. The two recently collaborated on the Ape Entertainment comic Scratch9. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 Spotlight on Terry Moore— Terry Moore (Echo) has been a fan favorite since beginning his classic series Strangers in Paradise in 1993. His hit series Echo has won fan and critical acclaim and will wrap up in early 2011. Find out what's next for Moore as he heads toward the Echo movie and the 20th anniversary of Strangers in Paradise. The Q & A is not to be missed! Room 26AB
Categories:  Anniversaries | Art and Illustration | Comics | Movies | Writers & Writing

4:45-5:45 Universal: Paul and Cowboys & Aliens— Universal presents two upcoming films in this exclusive Hall H presentation.
Paul—  Scheduled to appear for Universal Pictures' sci-fi comedy-adventure Paul are a who's who of film comedy. Director Greg Mottola (Superbad) will be joined by cast members Simon Pegg (Hot Fuzz), Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead), Kristen Wiig (Date Night), Bill Hader (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), Jeffrey Tambor (The Hangover), Joe Lo Truglio (Role Models), Seth Rogen (The Green Hornet), and Sigourney Weaver (Baby Mama) as they discuss the movie about two sci-fi geeks whose pilgrimage to Comic-Con ultimately takes them to America's UFO heartland. While there, they accidentally meet an alien who takes them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever. Q&A session to follow.

Cowboys & Aliens—Director Jon Favreau (Iron Man series) discusses what's happening behind the scenes of Universal Pictures and DreamWorks' action-thriller Cowboys & Aliens, based on Platinum Studios' graphic novel. Currently shooting in New Mexico, Cowboys & Aliens stars Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford and takes audiences into the Old West, where a lone cowboy leads an uprising against a terror from beyond our world. Q&A session to follow.
Hall H
Categories:  Comics | Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:00-6:00 Dark Shadows: The Classic Series, the Comic Books, and the Upcoming Film— Hermes Press celebrates Dark Shadows with a panel discussing the past, present, and future of the series. Join series stars Jonathan Frid (Barnabas Collins, via special video appearance), Lara Parker (Angelique), Kathryn Leigh Scott (Maggie Evans/Josette), with Jim Pierson (Dark Shadows) and Daniel Herman (publisher, Hermes Press) for a discussion and Q&A session. Room 3
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Television

5:00-6:00 Webcomics Lightning Round— The forces behind Webcomics.com, Scott Kurtz (PvP), Robert Khoo (Penny Arcade) and Brad Guigar (Evil Inc), present a primer on webcomics from all aspects: creative, technical and business. Each panelist will answer in thirty seconds or less, without repeating previous points, so expect a fast-paced tour of the subject from start to finish. Room 8
Categories:  Comics | Webcomics

5:00-6:00 Hellboy, The BPRD, and Beyond— As Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo near the end of their epic Hellboy trilogy (Darkness Calls, The Wild Hunt, and now The Storm), join them and long-suffering editor Scott Allie in a Q&A session covering the entire Hellboy universe, plus Mignola's new series Baltimore: The Plague Ships. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes

5:00-6:00 Building Your Art Portfolio— The most useful panel you'll ever attend as an artist. Comics superstars Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon, Amazing Spider-Man), C. B. Cebulski (Marvel talent Scout and manager), Scott Dunbier (special projects editor, IDW Publishing), and Ben Templesmith (30 Days of Night, Welcome to Hoxford, Choker) cut through everything else and get right to getting you work! They'll cover what to include in tour portfolio, where to get good scripts to draw from, what not to include, and how to handle a portfolio review in a professional manner (in other words, how to turn a negative into a positive!). Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 G4: Attack of the Show— G4's Attack of the Show is TV's first -- and only -- live daily show dedicated to the "digital generation." Breaking the hottest web videos, latest gadgets, blogs, and videogames, AOTS takes its audience to the virtual watercooler, where you can then tell your friends that you saw it on AOTS first! Kevin Pereira, Olivia Munn, Alison Haislip, Blair Butler, and AOTS producers bring you the closest thing to being on a live episode of Attack of the Show, an interactive Comic-Con panel! Plus, see the world premiere music video "I'm Awesomer Than You," written by Parry Gripp for AOTS starring Kevin and Olivia, and you can only see it at this panel. You'll also get a chance to grill the hosts and executive producers of the show and find out the dirty secrets and television tricks behind your favorite stunts on the show. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Games | Humor & Satire | Movies | Television

5:15-6:15 Nikita Pilot Screening and Q&A— Comic-Con has gone rogue! International action star Maggie Q (Mission: Impossible III) stars in this sexy and suspenseful series as an agent who has escaped from the ultrasecretive and corrupt government agency that trained her to be an assassin...and then betrayed her. Catch a sneak peek screening of this action-packed thriller, and join Maggie, series stars Shane West (ER) and Lyndsy Fonseca (Kick-Ass), and executive producer Craig Silverstein (Bones) for an inside look at one of the most anticipated new shows of the fall season. From Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Nikita will air Thursdays at 9pm ET/PT on The CW. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Television

5:30-6:30 Guild Wars 2: A New Type of Fantasy MMO— Learn how Guild Wars 2 will set a new standard for what is possible in an MMO game! Key creators, including James Phinney (design director), Jeff Grubb (game designer), Kekai Kotaki (concept art lead), Rich Anderson (concept artist), Kristen Perry (character artist), and Chris Lye (global brand director), examine how the lore, design, and gameplay of Guild Wars 2 has grown from the original game into something revolutionary and take questions from the audience. Room 4
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:30-6:30 Adult Swim: Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Squidbillies, Tim & Eric Awesome Show Great Job! and Mary Shelley's Frakenhole— Show creators Dave Willis (Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Squidbillies), Jim Fortier (Squidbillies), Matt Maiellaro (Aqua Teen Hunger Force), Tim Heidecker (Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job!), Eric Wareheim (Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job!) and Dino Stamatopoulos (Mary Shelley's Frakenhole) discuss their original series, screen sneak peeks, and answer questions. Keith Crofford, VP of production at Adult Swim, moderates. Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire

5:30-6:30 The Winston Effect— Creature and VFX luminaries discuss Stan Winston's impact on the art of character creation -- past, present and future. The panel will include messages from Jim Cameron and Tim Burton about a thrilling new Stan Winston endeavor. Panelists include John Rosengrant (Stan Winston lifer and co-owner of Legacy Effects), Shane Mahan (Academy Award nominated co-owner of Legacy Effects), J. Alan Scott (animatronic effects supervisor and co-owner of Legacy Effects), Alec Gillis (Academy Award–nominated co-founder of Amalgamated Dynamics, Inc.), Tom Woodruff, Jr. (Academy Award–winning co-founder of Amalgamated Dynamics, Inc.), Howard Berger (Academy Award–winning co-owner of KNB EFX), Van Ling (VFX supervisor), Alex Alvarez (founder and president, Gnomon School of Visual Effects), and Matt Winston (actor and co-founder of SWSCA). Followed by a Q&A session. Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Costuming | Movies

5:30-6:30 Bill Everett: From Sub-Mariner to Daredevil— Bill Everett created the Sub-Mariner for Marvel Comics #1 back in 1939 and co-created Daredevil in 1964. Author Blake Bell and Bill's daughter Wendy Everett celebrate the life of her late father, discussing the release of Bell's latest book, Fire And Water: Bill Everett, The Sub-Mariner, and the Birth of Marvel Comics Room 9
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Superheroes | Tributes | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Why So Critical? Celebrating 25 Years of Film Threat— Owner and publisher of Film Threat Mark Bell joins founder Chris Gore (Attack of the Show), filmmakers Kevin Smith (Clerks) and Malcolm Ingram (Bear Nation), and former editors Paul Zimmerman (Femme Fatales) and David E. Williams (Film Threat Video Guide) in a celebration of 25 years of independent and underground film insanity as seen through the eyes of Film Threat, the magazine and the website. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Anniversaries | Fandom | Movies

5:30-6:30 Avatar Press and Max Brooks— Max Brooks (World War Z) leads off the Avatar panel with one of his legendary Zombie Survival talks and a Q&A session. Then editor-in-chief William Christensen fills you in on all the upcoming Avatar projects with Mike Wolfer (Gravel, Wolfskin, Lady Death) and Jacen Burrows (Crossed, Neonomicon). Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Writers & Writing

5:45-7:15 Gays in Comics: Year 23!— This all-star panel examines the rising diversity in the comics world today as the long-running "Gays in Comics" panel continues into its third decade at Comic-Con. As mainstream companies DC and Marvel continue to frontline gay characters such as Batwoman and Northstar and hire top-level gay or gay-friendly creators, independent publishers and creators are publishing unequivocal content spotlighting gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered characters, to the cheers of the thousands of fans who are out of the comic book closet. Welcome a top-level panel of GLBT and straight creators, who will give amazing insights and glimpses of surprises to come! Joining founding moderator Andy Mangels, the USA Today best-selling author of Star Trek novels and Iron Man: Beneath The Armor, are Howard Cruse, creator of Stuck Rubber Baby and Barefootz, founder of Gay Comix, and godfather of the gay comic movement; Geoff Johns, writer of Green Lantern, Flash, Brightest Day, and DC Entertainment's chief creative officer; Marjorie M. Liu, the New York Times bestselling author and writer of Black Widow, X-23, and co-author of Dark Wolverine; Daniel Way, writer of Wolverine and Deadpool and co-writer of Dark Wolverine; Jim McCann, writer of Hawkeye & Mockingbird, Dazzler, and Return of the Dapper Men; Charles "Zan" Christensen, co-creator of Mark of Aeacus, founding member of PRISM Comics, and new publisher of gay-themed Northwest Press; Dan Parent, writer and artist for Archie and Betty & Veronica and creator of Archie's new gay character, Kevin Keller; and Tim Fish, creator of Cavalcade of Boys and writer/artist for X-Men: Nation X, and Iron Man: Designed Intelligence! Plus, there's always a surprise or two! Afterward, stick around for the hour-long gay comics fan mixer/social, hosted by PRISM Comics, with prizes and surprise special guests! Room 6A
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

6:00-7:00 Video Game Reveal: Maxis Studio— Maxis Studio (The Sims and Spore video games) has just announced their next project, a brand new, Sci-Fi Action-RPG based on the DNA of Spore. Join key leads from the dev team, Thomas Vu, Paul Sottosanti and Lauren McHugh, for the first game reveal to the public! Room 3
Categories:  Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:00-7:00 War of the Worlds: Goliath— War of the Worlds: Goliath is an animated, 95-minute, battle epic set in a Steampunk 1914 Earth that has rebuilt and rearmed following the failed Martian Invasion of 1900. Set for release in early 2011, War of the Worlds: Goliath features voices by Peter Wingfield, Adam Baldwin, Elizabeth Gracen, Jim Byrnes, and Adrian Paul, among others. Producer Kevin Eastman (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Heavy Metal), producer/director Joe Pearson (Roswell Conspiracies, Captain Simian and the Space Monkeys), producer/writer David Abramowitz (Highlander), and producer Leon Tan screen footage from the upcoming feature, discuss the production process, and hold a Q&A session. Room 5AB
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Animation | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:00-7:00 Lost But Not Forgotten— Lost Encyclopedia authors Tara Bennett and Paul Terry, along with other special Lost guests, discuss this seminal show's legacy, their thoughts on the finale, and the creation of the forthcoming Lost Encyclopedia. Attendees will have a chance to win a signed copy of the Lost Encyclopedia. Room 8
Categories:  Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

6:00-7:00 Roddenberry Presents— Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry (CEO, Roddenberry Productions), Trevor Roth (head of development, Days Missing) and Tory Mell (production supervisor, Trek Nation) are taking the name that created Star Trek and bringing it to levels not seen since the original days of the genre-changing television show. Join them for some awesome discussions and a chance to win a free iPad! Also on the panel: Phil Hester (Days Missing, Green Arrow), Dave Marquez (Days Missing, Syndrome), Stephen Christie (Archaia Publishing), and Paul Morrissey (editor, Days Missing). Room 25ABC
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

6:00-7:00 Marvel Studios: Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger— Producer Kevin Feige and special guests give you an inside look at the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Hall H
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies | Superheroes

6:15-7:00 Human Target Screening and Q&A— Based on the DC Comics title, Human Target is an action-packed thrill ride about a mysterious private contractor who will stop at nothing to keep his clients alive -- even if it means literally becoming a "human target." The series moves to a new night this fall -- Fridays at 8pm ET/PT on FOX -- and executive producer Matthew Miller (Chuck) joins series stars Mark Valley (Fringe), Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies), and Jackie Earle Haley (A Nightmare on Elm Street) for a Q&A with fans and to screen a special video presentation. Human Target is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Wonderland Sound and Vision, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Television. Human Target: The Complete First Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD September 21. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Comics | Television

6:30-7:30 WildStorm: Storm Front— What's new in the WildStorm Universe? VP/general manager Hank Kanalz and senior editor Ben Abernathy bring you up to speed with this inside look into DC's wildest imprint. Joining Hank and Ben will be Adam Beechen (WildCats), Kurt Busiek (Astro City), Darick Robertson (Fringe: Tales From the Fringe), Tom Taylor (The Authority), Tim Seeley (WildCats), Adam Archer (Ratchet and Clank), Cruddie Torian (Gen13) and others. Room 4
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 Kickstart Your Comic!— Producing an independent comic requires not only a huge time commitment but also a sizable financial investment to cover the printing, promotion, and distribution costs incurred before your book even hits the shelves. Recently, some creators have discovered a new and effective way to raise start-up capital for their comics online. Since it's founding in 2009, Kickstarter.com has been helping artists in all media find financial backing for their projects through user donations. Kickstarter advisor Andy Baio and comic creators Kody Chamberlain (Sweets), Steve Earnhart and Pat Loika (The Villain), and Steve Bryant (Athena Voltaire) discuss their highly successful Kickstarter campaigns and offer advice to help you fund your own comic through Kickstarter.com. Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

6:30-7:30 Ghetto Comics One-on-One: Eric Clement and Chris Miller— Eric Clement and Chris Miller present the new animated series The Adventures of Captain Save a Hood and Peter Proper, based on the independent graphic novel series about two superheroes who have no superpowers. Eric and Chris preview their animated series, along with a Q&A session. Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 Her Universe: Shining The Spotlight on Female Fans— Ashley Eckstein (Star Wars: The Clone Wars) brings together some of today's leading women who are movers and shakers in the various fields of sci-fi and fantasy. Looking at science fiction through female eyes, the panel will discuss what kinds of entertainment female sci-fi fans want to see more of, what strides have been made, what has been missing up to now, what kinds of merchandise female fans want to see, and what female fans can do to encourage more of all of this. Panelists include Jane Espenson (producer/writer, Battlestar Galactica, Caprica, Buffy The Vampire Slayer), Melinda Snodgrass (author, The Edge series; story editor Star Trek: The Next Generation), Erika Kennair (director of development and current programming, Syfy Channel), Cat Staggs (artist, Star Wars sketch cards, Marvel card sets), Bonnie Burton (content developer, Lucas Online, official SW Blog), Katie Cook (artist, Star Wars, comics, webcomic Gronk), and Mary Franklin (senior events lead, Lucasfilm Ltd.). Q&A with audience members, too! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Comics | Fandom | Games | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

6:30-7:30 What's Hot @ Harper: A Special Sneak Preview of Upcoming SF, Fantasy, Urban Noir, Horror & More— Want to hear about The Fall by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan? Get a sneak preview of the next Kim Harrison? Meet some of the Eos and Avon authors and hear about their upcoming books? Plus get free stuff (including a chance to win a new e-Reader, so you can enjoy all of Harper's 'e' offerings)? Then don't miss this panel on HarperCollins's upcoming sci-fi/fantasy/horror titles and more! Moderated by Diana Gill, executive editor, HarperCollins Publishers, with authors Brom, Richard Kadrey, Marjorie M. Liu, and others. Room 26AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

6:45-7:45 Fables Forum 2010— The Fables Forum returns to San Diego! The Fables creative team will be on hand to answer your most pressing Fables questions. Featuring the creators behind Fables, Jack of Fables, and Cinderella, this panel is sure to have plenty of surprises. Moderated by group editor Shelly Bond, with Bill Willingham (Fables), Steve Leialoha (Fables), Chris Roberson (Cinderella), Matthew Sturges (Jack of Fables), Chrissie Zullo (Cinderella), and others. Room 6DE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

Nighttime Programs

7:00-8:00 Halo-8 Comics and Illustrated Films— Art and cinema collide at Halo-8, where stories are created simultaneously as comic books and "illustrated films," merging motion comics with 3D-CGI, intense voice performances, and cinematic storytelling. Following the breakthrough success of Godkiller, Halo-8 president Matt Pizzolo (writer/director, Godkiller) presents the studio's bold new slate of comics and illustrated films, unveiling never-before-seen art and announcing new projects with fellow panelists, creators Ben Templesmith (30 Days of Night) and Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash), producers Brian Giberson (Godkiller) and FJ DeSanto (The Spirit, upcoming The Shadow), Godkiller stars Danielle Harris (Halloween) and Justin Pierre (Motion City Soundtrack), and more special guests. A limited-edition mystery gift will be available exclusively to panel attendees. Room 8
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Nighttime Programming | Webcomics

7:15-8:15 Gaia Online— Meet Gaia staff and get a sneak peek at upcoming features, games, and events. Stick around for the open-mic Q&A session and get your burning questions answered! Expect plenty of fun and some great prizes! Room 5AB
Categories:  Fandom | Games | Nighttime Programming

7:15-8:15 Gays in Comics Mixer and Silent Auction— A reception hosted by PRISM Comics, the nonprofit organization that supports gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered comics, creators, and readers. Mingle with comics fans and creators. Plus stay for the special drawing of a "Comics Gift Basket" and the silent auction of hot comics items! Room 6A
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

7:15-8:15 MythBusters— An explosive hour with Adam Savage, Jamie Hyneman, Tory Belleci, Grant Imahara, and, for the first time ever at Comic-Con, Kari Byron! Find out what really goes on behind the scenes, learn what myths they're working on now, and see never-before-shown video. Chris Hardwick (Web Soup, Attack of the Show, Nerdist) moderates...for Science! MythBusters airs this fall on Wednesdays at 9pm ET/PT on Discovery Channel. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Fandom | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

7:15-8:45 Kevin Smith— He's back! Spend a quiet, refined evening with the one-and-only Kevin Smith, who will no doubt solve all the bad things in the world for you or, at the very least, make you laugh a few hundred times. Hall H
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television | Writers & Writing

7:30-9:30 CBLDF Benefit Auction— This is it, the CBLDF's biggest auction of the year! Support free speech and walk away with incredible original art! Highlights include original art by Arthur Adams, Paul Pope, Tara McPherson, Ben Templesmith, Jim Rugg, David Hine, Shaky Kane, and many more. This auction includes highlights from auction initiatives by TFAW.com, Image Comics, and SeenAllOver.com, as well as original art created at the CBLDF Master Sessions. Stop by CBLDF booth (#1920) for a complete auction list. All proceeds from this auction will benefit the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comics | Nighttime Programming

7:30-8:30 Remembering Dick Giordano— Penciller, inker, editor, mentor. Dick Giordano, who passed away on March 27, was a lot of things to a lot of people. A panel of comic luminaries and friends gather to pay tribute to the man who left a huge impact on the world of comics. Moderator Mark Evanier talks to Neal Adams, Paul Levitz, Pat Bastienne, Bob Layton, and Joe Rubinstein about this comic book renaissance man. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes | Tributes

7:30-8:30 World Premiere of Legend of Neil, Season 3— Atom.com is back with Sandeep Parikh (The Guild) for another groundbreaking season of Legend of Neil. See the world premiere of new episodes from Season 3 and stay for a discussion with Sandeep, series stars Tony Janning, Mike Rose, Scott Chernoff, Eric Acosta and everyone's favorite fairy Felicia Day (The Guild)! Moderated by Alex Albrecht, of Diggnation. Room 7AB
Categories:  Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

7:30-8:30 12-Gauge Comics: Boondock Saints: The Comic Series!— Troy Duffy, the writer/director of the cult-hit films The Boondock Saints and The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day, takes you behind the scenes of his comic trilogy, In Nomine Patris. Find out what's next for the McManus Brothers and Il Duce, as Duffy and comic series co-writer J.B. Love fill you in on their plans for the next exciting storyline. But that's not all...get a sneak peek at the new Boondock Saints iPhone game with developer Terrence Myers, and as an extra-special treat, David Della Rocco (the beloved "Rocco" from the films) will be taking your questions during the Q&A session! Moderated by comic series producer Eben Matthews and 12-Gauge publisher Keven Gardner (The Ride). Room 9
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Writers & Writing

7:30-8:30 After Hours with the Christian Comic Arts Society— Creators and fans alike are invited to attend an open meeting of the Christian Comic Arts Society for an informal time of Christian fellowship, networking, laughter and prayer. (Think of it as the social hour after church...just with comic books instead of coffee, cookies and punch.) Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

8:00-9:00 Troma Troma Troma— Movie-making insights with irreverent filmmakers Lloyd Kaufman (Poultrygiest: Night of the Chicken Dead), Adam Green (Frozen), Adam Rifkin (The Dark Backward), Dennis Dreith (Creep Van), Darren Bousman (Mother's Day), James Gunn (Super), and moderator Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics). Troma Entertainment is Reel Independence! Room 8
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming

8:30-11:30 Simulcast of HBO's True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Avoid the crowds and watch the simulcast. See our Masquerade page for more details. Room 5AB
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

8:30-11:30 Simulcast in 6A of HBO's True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Avoid the crowds and watch the simulcast. See our Masquerade page for more details. Room 6A
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

8:30-10:30 With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story— With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story is a feature length documentary on Marvel Comics icon Stan Lee, the co-creator of Spider-Man, Iron Man, X-Men, Hulk and over 500 other comic book characters. Learn how Stan rose from his humble Brooklyn beginnings to co-creating many of the world's most well known characters! Following the screening will be a brief panel with Stan "The Man" Lee himself, executive producers Michael Uslan (The Dark Knight) and Tom DeSanto (X-Men, Transformers), actor Lou Ferrigno (The Incredible Hulk TV Show), illustrator Jim Lee (Marvel, DC), writer Paul Levitz (former president and publisher of DC Comics), Jack Kirby biographer Mark Evanier, and the With Great Power producing team of Terry Dougas, Nikki Frakes, and Will Hess. You won't want to miss this one! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Movies | Nighttime Programming

8:30-9:30 World Premiere of The House That Drips Blood on Alex: An Evening With Tommy Wiseau— Visionary cult auteur Tommy Wiseau, creator of midnight movie phenomenon The Room, has teamed up with Atom.com and Studio 8 for The House That Drips Blood On Alex. See the world premiere and join the cast and creators Tommy Wiseau, Brock LaBorde, Jared Richard, Yaque Silva-Doyle, Chris Trew, Joey Greco (Cheaters), and Justine Ezarik (iJustine) for a lively discussion. Room 7AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Movies | Nighttime Programming

8:30-11:30 HBO's True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Fabulous original and re-created costumes crafted by our talented attendees appear on stage before an audience of thousands, with impressive awards and cash prizes bestowed to those judged most outstanding. Doors will open for audience seating at 7:45 pm, but the line will start much earlier! Tickets will be required for seating and will be given out free to those lining up near Ballroom 20 beginning at 3:00pm Saturday until all tickets are gone. The Masters of Ceremony are writer/artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio of Studio Foglio. Ballroom 20, with additional live broadcasts of the event in Rooms 5AB and 6A, and in the Sails Pavilion. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

8:30-11:30 Simulcast Under the Sails of HBO's True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Avoid the crowds and watch the simulcast. See our Masquerade page for more details. Sails Pavilion
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Nighttime Programming

10:00-12:00 Kevin Smith presents Cop Out in "Maximum Comedy Mode"— Director Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy) is on hand for the world premiere presentation of Cop Out in "Maximum Comedy Mode," the latest innovation in home entertainment viewing that showcases the comical stunts, improves, and hi-jinks that went into creating this side-splitting buddy cop film. Bruce Willis (Die Hard) and Tracy Morgan (30 Rock) star as bickering Brooklyn cops on the hunt for a stolen 1952 mint-condition baseball card, plunging them into a gun-slinging war with a deadly drug ring. "Maximum Comedy Mode" features Kevin Smith and Seann William Scott making onscreen appearances to guide Blu-ray viewers through the behind-the-scenes hilarity. Stop by for a bundle of laughs and a bucket of popcorn, courtesy of Warner Bros. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming

San Diego Comic-Con 2010: Friday Schedule Live

Huzzah! With less than two weeks to go before the start of San Diego Comic-Con 2010, the convention has continued to release its full schedule, day by day.

Continuing its trend of releasing single-day lineups over four days, the convention has today announced the programming schedule for Friday, July 23rd. Among the offerings on the second day of Comic-Con 2010, The Walking Dead, Bones, Terra Nova, Falling Skies, True Blood, Being Human, Stargate Universe, Bob's Burgers, Caprica, Skyline, The Big Bang Theory, Super, The Cape, Spartacus, The Other Guys, The Green Hornet, Archer, Joss Whedon, Entertainment Weekly's Girls Who Kick Ass panel, TV Guide Magazine's 2010 Hot List, and much more.

The full schedule for Friday can be found below. Be sure to come back tomorrow for Saturday's lineup... (and you can find Thursday's lineup here.)

Continue reading full story...




Friday, July 23

10:00-11:00 DC Talent Search 2— DC's editorial art director Mark Chiarello presents an informative orientation session that will explain how DC's Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm and MAD magazine publications. If you want to learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, this is the panel for you! To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 Marvel X-Men— Following Second Coming, Marvel's merry mutants are unable to catch a quick breather. As Curse of the Mutants begins, there's no telling what the vampires have in store for the X-Men...or is there? You've got questions & these people have answers! VP/executive editor Axel Alonso is joined by a host of creators to lay out what's going on with the X-Men. Panelists include Matt Fraction (Uncanny X-Men), Victor Gischler (X-Men), Marjorie Liu (Dark Wolverine), Daniel Way (Deadpool), editor Nick Lowe, and more for this all-new, all-deadly panel! Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 DK Star Wars: From Banthas to X-Wings— In 2010 DK Publishing is releasing several Star Wars titles, including Star Wars Year By Year; Star Wars Blueprints: Rebel Edition; Star Wars Clone Wars Character Encyclopedia, and LEGO Star Wars Brickmaster. A panel of authors (Ryder Windham, Daniel Wallace, Gus Lopez, Pablo Hidalgo) and illustrators (Chris Reiff, Chris Trevas) provide a behind-the-scenes look at the making of these books. Everyone who attends will be entered to win one a DK Star Wars library! Room 7AB
Categories:  Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Publishing Comics— Four publishers—Matt Gagnon (BOOM!), Gary Groth (Fantagraphics), Dallas Middaugh (Del Rey Manga), and Mark Siegel (First Second Books) -- each from a different part of the comics industry, discuss what's involved in running a publishing company and in creating and fostering a unique comics ideology. Moderated by Graeme McMillan (Techland). Room 8
Categories:  Comics | Seminars & Workshops

10:00-11:00 From Fan to Creator: Goal Setting for Creative Types— Which side of the convention table do you want to be on, artist or fan? And what's keeping you from getting there? If you have a project in mind that you've had trouble bringing into reality, you might benefit from this fun and practical goal-setting workshop, designed specifically for the Comic-Con crowd. Hailed as the "Tony Robbins of Geeks," motivational speeker Douglas Neff will give you simple, proven techniques for achieving your most important goals. Whether you want to write your own screenplay, draw your first comic, or shoot your independent film, you're sure to get something useful from this informative and energizing workshop. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Comedy Central: Ugly Americans— David M. Stern (showrunner and executive producer), Dan Powell (executive producer), Jeff Poliquin (supervising producer), Devin Clark (producer and series creator), Aaron Augenblick (director of animation), Matt Oberg (voice of Mark Lilly), Kurt Metzger (voice of Randall Skeffington), and Randy Pearlstein (voice of Leonard) take you behind the scenes at this animated series sensation. Featuring a sneak peek of the new season, Q&A, and more. One audience member selected will be drawn into an upcoming episode!  Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

10:00-11:00 With Great Power Come Great Stories— Authors discuss creating superhero superfiction, including novels and stories in anthologies like Masked and Wild Cards. Authors include Lou Anders (Masked), Jackie Kessler (the Icarus Project novels), Caitlin Kittredge (the Icarus Project novels), Gini Koch (Touched by an Alien, the Katherine "Kitty" Katt series), Kevin Andrew Murphy (the Wild Cards series), Chris Roberson (Book of Secrets), Caroline Spector (Wild Cards contributor), and Matt Sturges (Justice Society of America). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 32AB
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

10:15-11:15 Aloha, Earth!— Lost castaway found! Battlestar Cylon becomes human! Star Trek writers return from space! A supernatural force has drawn some of sci-fi's giants back to Earth -- and they're all gathering on a beautiful and mysterious island in the Pacific. It's Hawaii Five-0, a modern-day reimagining of one of television's most beloved and iconic classics. The epic series, one of the most anticipated new shows of the season, will explore the origins of the Five-0 team and build on an already rich mythology. Executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci (Star Trek) and Peter M. Lenkov (24), director Len Wiseman (Underworld), and stars Daniel Dae Kim (Lost) and Grace Park (Battlestar Galactica) present an exclusive sneak peek at the series and an in depth discussion on how they plan to marry their genre sensibilities with a classic police procedural. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Television

10:30-11:30 Nappy Hour— Keith Knight (the Knight Life, the K Chronicles, MAD) brings his informal gathering of African American creators out of the bar and onto the stage for an hour of tips, hints, secrets, and thoughts on how to make it in the comics biz. With Ned Cato, Jr. (GeekRoundTable.com), David Walker (BadAzzMofo.com), Spike Trotman (Templar AZ), and Dwayne McDuffie (Static Shock, Justice League).  Room 3
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

10:30-11:30 Spotlight on Moto Hagio— Comic-Con special guest Moto Hagio is considered to be the mother of shōjo (young girl) manga. Her large body of work is renowned the world over, and Fantagraphics Books is publishing a new collection of her short stories, Drunken Dreams. Celebrate her first-ever visit to the U.S. at this special Q&A session, moderated by Matt Thorn, associate professor in the department of manga production at Kyoto Seika University in Japan. (Thorn decided to translate shōjo manga into English after reading Thomas no Shinzō by Moto Hagio in the mid-1980s). Room 5AB
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

10:30-11:30 Batman: The Brave and the Bold Screening and Q&A— The Caped Crusader swings back into San Diego as Batman: The Brave and the Bold returns to Comic-Con for its third consecutive year, with an advance screening of an upcoming episode as well as a lively discussion with voice of Batman Diedrich Bader (Surf's Up), executive producer Sam Register (Teen Titans), producers James Tucker (Justice League Unlimited), and Michael Jelenic (The Batman), and voice director Andrea Romano (Superman Doomsday). As a special bonus for fans, the panel will also screen the world premiere trailer for the upcoming and highly anticipated Cartoon Network/Warner Bros. Animation series Young Justice...don't miss this Comic-Con exclusive! From Warner Bros. Animation, Batman: The Brave and the Bold airs Fridays at 7:30 pm ET/PT on Cartoon Network, and Batman: The Brave and the Bold—Season 1, Part 1 will be released on DVD August 17. Room 6A
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Superheroes | Television

10:30-11:30 Neal Adams and Stan Lee: They Spoke Out—Against the Holocaust— Neal Adams (Batman, Green Lantern/Green Arrow) and Holocaust historian Dr. Rafael Medoff unveil the new series of educational "motion comics" they are creating with ABC News about Americans who spoke out for the rescue of Jews from the Holocaust. They will be joined on the panel by Stan Lee (co-creator of Spider-Man, X-Men) and will screen an episode from the upcoming series, illustrated by Neal Adams and narrated by Stan Lee. Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

10:30-11:30 Retailing in the Digital Age— Publishers are looking at more digital comics releases, and the comic book apps are among the most popular on the iPad and iPhone. How can comic book stores update their retail practices to stay involved with digital distribution? What are publishers doing to encourage new digital readers to pick up print comics? Jim Lee (co-publisher, DC Comics) and John Rood (executive VP of sales & marketing, DC Entertainment), along with Jim Sokolowski (COO Marvel Comics), Chip Mosher (director of marketing, BOOM! Studios), and David Steinberger (founder, comiXology.com), talk about upcoming promotions aimed at sending readers to comic book stores. Moderated by Joe Field (ComicsPRO president, Flying Colors Comics, Concord, CA). Room 12
Categories:  Comics | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

10:30-11:30 Stargate Universe— Follow your Destiny. Catch the Syfy Stargate Universe panel, featuring Robert Carlyle (Dr. Nicholas Rush), David Blue (Eli Wallace), Ming Na (Camile Wray), and Louis Ferreira (Colonel Everett Young), moderated by Robert Cooper (series co-creator). Ballroom 20
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #5: Moving Beyond the Comic Book— A comic book artist, a comics publisher, a law professor, a transmedia scholar, and an anthropologist walk into a...panel at Comic-Con. Is this a joke? No, this is a discussion about the inherent cross-media nature of comics. Comic-Con special guests Phil Jimenez (Astonishing X-Men) and Paul Levitz (DC Comics), Patricia Williams (Columbia University), Henry Jenkins (USC), and Stanford Carpenter (School of the Art Institute of Chicago) discuss the reemergence of comics as a mainstream popular art form through the democratization of production and distribution processes in conjunction with new e-readers and the corporate synergy of media conglomerates.  Learn how comics are creating new worlds across the mediascape. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 202: Greed Is Good...Or Is It?— Noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of the acclaimed The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, is back ready to tackle a number of the more advanced issues facing authors, artists, and designers, particularly once they've "broken through" and started publishing and selling (and maybe merchandising too). This second Comic Book Law School session addresses some of the complicated issues surrounding marketing properties and creative ideas, including transfers and licensing of rights; production, merchandising, and distribution agreements; and the key things you should know when Hollywood comes knocking. This interactive seminar gives attendees the opportunity to participate in the discussions as Lovitz (with an assist by entertainment attorney Mona Metwalli) covers various means for profiting from creative works and explores the many important elements that form the foundation of every contract (and time permitting, maybe participate in a mock contract negotiation). With in-depth discussions about the options and opportunities for profit, as well as the problems and pitfalls that go hand in hand with each decision, you can't afford to miss this seminar. Note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.] Room 30CDE
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Comics Law School | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 Summit Entertainment: Drive Angry 3D— A vengeful father hunts down the people who brutally killed his daughter and kidnapped her baby in the newest film shot in 3D from the writer and director of My Bloody Valentine 3D, starring Nicolas Cage, William Fichtner, Billy Burke, and Amber Heard. Join the cast and filmmakers as they showcase never-before-seen footage of this high-octane, blood-spattered road trip through hell! Hall H
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Horror and Suspense | Movies

11:00-12:00 Spotlight on Vanessa Davis— One of the brightest new cartoonists of her generation, who has been featured in Tablet, Vice, Bust, and Bitch Magazines, Comic-Con special guest Vanessa Davis will be debuting her new book Make Me a Woman and discussing the book and its process with a charming and funny slide show about being young, Jewish and single.  Room 4
Categories:  Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Writers & Writing

11:00-12:00 Star Wars Day: Hasbro Panel— Hear from the Hasbro Design and Marketing teams about what's in store for the remainder of 2010. They will also offer a special sneak peek into some 2011 secrets. Featuring Derryl DePriest and Chad Donvito of Hasbro Marketing, and Brian Parrish, Mark Boudreaux, Brian Merten, Andrew Franks, and Vickie Stratford of Hasbro Design. Room 7AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:00-12:00 BOOM! Studios/BOOM Kids! Panel— The BOOM! team—Mark Waid, Ross Richie, Matt Gagnon, and Chip Mosher -- take over Comic-Con for one full hour. Learn what is next for BOOM! History will be made. New titles will be announced. Heads will explode! And comics will never be the same again! Room 8
Categories:  Comics | Kids

11:00-1:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Costuming with Sabrina Belly Dancer— Sabrina will show how to create a costume bra top for hall costumes or a masquerade performance. She will create the costume bra and, time permitting, will also show the application of stayput makeup for hall costume or masquerade performances. Room 18
Categories:  Costuming | Seminars & Workshops

11:00-12:00 Mattel and DC Comics: A Heroic Partnership— Find out the latest news, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes scoop on your favorite Mattel/DC action figures, including DC Universe Classics, Justice League Unlimited, Retro Action, Infinite Heroes, and more! Plus, be here for an exciting look at all-new 2011 product! Mattel toy designer Bill Benecke, Mattel brand manager Scott "Toy Guru" Neitlich, The Four Horsemen, and special guests from DC Comics and Warner Brothers are on hand for an insightful Q&A that's not to be missed! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Superheroes

11:00-12:00 Bob's Burgers— Creator/executive producer Loren Bouchard (Home Movies) and executive producer Jim Dauterive (King of the Hill) introduce animation fans to their hilarious new series premiering on Fox in January. There will be a screening of never-before-seen footage followed by a Q&A. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

11:00-12:00 Costume Designers: Designing for TV Production— Costume Designers work in collaboration with Directors, Production Designers, Directors of Photography and Actors in creating fantastic and memorable stories told via moving images. Characters created by Comic Book Writers and Illustrators are made real for the screen via the artistry of Costume Designers. Meet the men and women who are the Costume Designers on this year's most popular television productions. Moderator  Kristin Burke, Costume Designer, a Member of  the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, and creator of her own Costume Design website “Frocktalk.com”, hosts Costume Designers from CDG, local 892: Audrey Fisher (True Blood), Ane Crabtree (Justified), Shawna Trpcic (Firefly), Pamela Shaw (Assistant Designer, Vampire Diaries),  Jennifer Eve (Assistant Designer, Glee).  Room 32AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Costuming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

11:00-11:45 Dimension Films: Piranha 3D— Dimension Films presents never-before-seen footage of Piranha 3D, which hits theatres August 20. Director/producer Alex Aja (The Hills Have Eyes), producer Mark Canton (300), producer Gregory Levasseur, and executive producer Alix Taylor are joined by cast members Elisabeth Shue, Jerry O'Connell, Jessica Szohr (Gossip Girl), Steven R. McQueen (Vampire Diaries), Kelly Brook, and Adam Scott for a sneak peek at Piranha 3D and a Q&A!  Hall H
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Movies

11:15-12:15 Marvel Interactive: Marvel Video Games— Learn all about Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions, Super Hero Squad Online, Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Thor and and other new games via exclusive trailers, surprise reveals, and Q&A with the game creators, as well as the Marvel writers working on the next wave of Marvel Games from some of the industry's top publishers. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comics | Games | Superheroes

11:30-12:30 Dark Horse Comics: Make Contact in 2010— Couldn't get into the Dark Horse panel last year? Well, here's another chance to be at the forefront of breaking news from comics' most dynamic publishing house. Dark Horse president and publisher Mike Richardson, plus a host of the industry's top creators, present a firsthand look at the future of the medium. Featuring everyone from Eisner award winner Gerard Way to New York Times bestselling author Janet Evanovich, this is one panel you don't want to miss. Room 3
Categories:  Comics

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Paul Levitz— Paul Levitz has been a comics fan (The Comic Reader fanzine, NY Comic Art Convention committee), editor (Batman), writer (Legion of Super-Heroes), and executive (DC Comics, including publisher from 1989 to 2010). Now he's interviewed by favorite writer and DC chief creative officer Geoff Johns about his varied career and his return to writing Legion and other DC projects, including a coffeetable book history of the company. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

11:30-12:30 AMC's The Walking Dead— Andrew Lincoln (Love Actually), Jon Bernthal (The Pacific), Sarah Wayne Callies (Prison Break), Laurie Holden (The Mist), Emma Bell (Law & Order), series creator/director/executive producer Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption), executive producer Gale Anne Hurd (The Terminator), executive producer Robert Kirkman (creator/writer of The Walking Dead comic), makeup artist Greg Nicotero, and Joel Stillerman (AMCs senior VP) discuss the making of AMC's series The Walking Dead, based on the Image comic book series created and written by Robert Kirkman, premiering in October on AMC. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Comics | Horror and Suspense | Television

11:30-12:30 State of the Animation Industry— ASIFA-Hollywood's annual overview of trends in animation. In this turbulent economy, how is the animation industry faring? Are games taking up the slack? Will 2D survive? Moderated by Tom Sito (Shrek, The Lion King), the panel includes Raul Garcia (Aladdin, The Old Woman and the Reaper), Joe Haidar (Beauty and the Beast, Alvin the Squeakquel), Beth Sleven (Night at the Museum, Iron Man 2), and Sean Petrilak (Kung Fu Panda TV show, Lady Gaga and Kanye West videos). Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Movies | Television

11:30-12:45 Eisner Spirit Award Video Viewing— The Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award is the industry's "Hall of Fame" for progressive retailers. Spirit Award facilitator and award recipient Joe Ferrara (Atlantis Fantasyworld, Santa Cruz, CA) shows the video presentations for this year's award finalists, with discussion about each nominated retailer, the store's display techniques, and the other notable features. Hey, retailers! Steal some good ideas here! Room 12
Categories:  Awards Ceremonies | Comics | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops

11:30-12:30 Caprica— Syfy presents an exclusive glimpse into the future of humanity. Featuring Alessandra Torresani (Zoe Graystone), Sasha Roiz (Sam Adama), Ronald D. Moore (co-creator/executive producer), and David Eick (executive producer) and moderated by Geoff Boucher of the Los Angeles Times. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

11:30-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #6: Digital Comics— Nick Langley (Rocket Llama) gives a brief history of webcomics and evaluates online economic experiments from subscriptions to micropayments. Neil Granitz (CSU Fullerton) examines consumer attitudes toward comic book digitization and argues that comics could enjoy a period of technological convergence due to the hedonic qualities enjoyed by readers. David B. Olsen (Saint Louis University) explores the implications of moving comics from the page to the screen and considers the ways in which print comics have always been multimedia. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops | Webcomics

11:45-12:45 Cartoon Network: Comedy Animation— What time is it? It's Adventure Time with special guests Pendleton Ward (creator), Jeremy Shada (voice of Finn), John DiMaggio (voice of Jake), and Tom Kenny (voice of Ice King). Fans will also get an exclusive look at what's coming this fall from Cartoon Network Studios, including a sneak peek at Regular Show with creator J. G. Quintel. Room 6A
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on C. Tyler— Comic-Con special guest C. Tyler is known for her personal brand of storytelling. Her latest book, You'll Never Know, Book 1: A Good and Decent Man chronicles the story of her father's life during World War II and interweaves it with her own story. Fantagraphics publisher Gary Groth interviews Tyler about her work. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

12:00-1:00 Star Wars Day: Collectibles Update— Chris Spitale of Lucasfilm Licensing and the creators of some of the most tantalizing Star Wars collectibles provide product development insights. Look forward to exclusive previews of what's coming and what will be the hottest new collectibles. Room 7AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

12:00-1:00 IDW and Their 'Bro— Representatives from IDW and Hasbro discuss what's coming up next in the world of Transformers, G.I. Joe, and the impending relaunch of Dungeons & Dragons. IDW's Andy Schmidt moderates a panel with D&D editor Denton Tipton and writers John Rogers and Alex Irvine, G.I. Joe artist Robert Atkins, writer Mike Costa, and more! Room 8
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Action/Adventure | Animation | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

12:00-1:00 Archie Comics: Cooler Than Ever!— It's been an exciting year for Archie Comics, but that's just the start, with plenty of surprise announcements about the future of Archie Comics, including the latest news about Archie on television and in feature films! Panelists include executive producer of The Dark Knight and Archie writer Michael Uslan, Archie Comics co-CEO Jon Goldwater, iVerse CEO Michael Murphy, IDW Publishing COO Greg Goldstein, Dark Horse Comics VP of business development Michael Martens, Archie Comics president/editor-in-chief Victor Gorelick, and Archie Comics VP/managing editor Mike Pellerito. The panel will feature a Q&A session. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Television

12:00-1:00 Neighbors from Hell— Executive producers Pam Brady (South Park) and Mireille Soria (Madagascar) screen a never-before-seen episode of their newly launched TBS animated series and take questions from the audience, along with their all-star voice cast including Molly Shannon (SNL), Patton Oswalt (My Weakness Is Strong, Ratatouille), Will Sasso (MADtv), Kurtwood Smith (That '70s Show), David Soren (DreamWorks animation veteran), Kyle McCulloch (Mr. Wong), and Tracey Fairaway (Chicago 8). Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: Jill Thompson: Secrets of Watercolor Technique— Bring your sketchbooks and learn the secrets of expressive watercolor from one of the medium's top practitioners! Renowned for her work on Beasts of Burden, Scary Godmother, and Sandman, Jill Thompson shows you the intricacies of the watercolor medium and how to apply it to making masterful comics and covers. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's Art Auction! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 The Official Aspen Comics Panel— Creators Frank Mastromauro (Dellec, Shrugged), Peter Steigerwald (Soulfire, Brightest Day), Vince Hernandez (Dellec, Fathom: Kiani), Mark Roslan (Heroes, Brightest Day), J.T. Krul (Mindfield, Green Arrow), Joe Benitez (Soulfire, Lady Mechanika), David Schwartz (Fathom: Blue Descent, Meltdown), David Wohl (Executive Assistant: Iris, Witchblade), Micah Gunnell (Dellec, Shrugged), Alex Konat (Mindfield), Eric Battle (The Scourge), Beth Sotelo (Soulfire, Fathom), and surprise guests are on hand to unveil Aspen's all new properties for 2010 and beyond! See never-before-seen covers and art, hear firsthand from the creators their plans for exciting new properties, and ask them questions directly in a special Q&A session. All fans in attendance will receive an exclusive gift courtesy of Aspen Comics. Room 32AB
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

12:00-1:00 Skyline— Universal Pictures, Relativity Media, and Rogue Pictures present an exclusive look at the sci-fi thriller Skyline, directed and produced by the Brothers Strause (Alien vs. Predator: Requiem), whose company Hydraulx has provided visual effects for Avatar, Iron Man 2, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and 300. In Skyline, strange lights descend on the city of Los Angeles, drawing people outside like moths to a flame, where an extraterrestrial force proceeds to swallow the entire human population off the face of the earth. Colin and Greg Strause unveil an exclusive Comic-Con trailer and scenes from Skyline, along with stars Donald Faison (Scrubs), Eric Balfour (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, 24), David Zayas (The Expendables, Dexter), Scottie Thompson (Star Trek), and Brittany Daniel (Club Dread) and moderated by Drew McWeeney. Hall H
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

12:30-1:30 Remembering Frank Frazetta and Al Williamson— The late legendary artists Frank Frazetta and Al Williamson will be remembered by their friends and colleagues during this memorial panel. A giant of comics and book illustration, Frank Frazetta was a major influence on countless comic artists. From his early work at Magazine Enterprises and EC Comics to his Warren Publications and Conan paperback covers, Frazetta's art was monumental in scope, design, and execution. He passed away on May 10. Al Williamson was an artists' artist, with a clean, elegant style. He's most famous for his work with EC Comics and in the syndicated comic strip world, with Secret Agent Corrigan and Star Wars. He passed away on June 12. Moderator Arnie Fenner (co-author/editor of the Frazetta books Icon, Legacy, and Testament, and director of Spectrum Fantastic Art) talks to writer/artist Mark Schultz (Xenozoic Tales, writer of Prince Valiant), artist/illustrator William Stout (Dinosaur Discoveries, Prehistoric Life Murals), and publisher J. David Spurlock, whose Vanguard Productions recently launched a number of Frazetta books, including a complete reprinting of Johnny Comet, the artist's syndicated daily comic strip from the mid-1950s. Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Tributes

12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Tanya Huff— Special guest, author Tanya Huff (the Blood series, The Truth of Valor) will read a short story and then throw the room open to a Q&A; if you've got questions, now's the time to ask. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 DC Focus: Grant Morrison— The mastermind behind bestselling hits such as Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne, Joe the Barbarian, Final Crisis, Arkham Asylum, All-Star Superman, and many more invites you to this rare sit-down. You won't want to miss this candid chat about projects past, present and future, with glimpses into what goes on in the mind of Grant Morrison as he crafts some of the world's most thought-provoking comics! Hosted by DC's senior story editor Ian Sattler. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Spotlight on the Immonens: Sex, Lies and Comic Books— Kathryn Immonen (Heralds) and Stuart Immonen (New Avengers) enter the ring with the peerless John Siuntres (wordballoon.com) to talk about working for Marvel, publishing with Top Shelf, and sleeping with the enemy. See new work unveiled! Bring your questions! Room 9
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

12:45-1:45 Marvel Animation— Hosted by an all-star cast of Marvel Animation talent and featuring a special guest of legendary proportions, this interactive game-show panel will get you more than excited about Marvel's new and continuing animated series. Here's your chance to snag some sweet Marvel merchandise! Come be a part of the action, with all new seasons of The Super Hero Squad Show and Iron Man Armored Adventures as well as Marvel Knights, Marvel Anime, and other upcoming Marvel Animation properties! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Superheroes

12:45-1:45 The Big Bang Theory— It's "Anything Can Happen Friday" at Comic-Con as The Big Bang Theory -- which kicks off a new night of comedy on Thursdays for CBS this fall -- returns to Comic-Con with a special screening and Q&A featuring the show's creators and stars. Resident Big Bang alum Wil Wheaton (Star Trek: The Next Generation) moderates a lively discussion featuring executive producers Chuck Lorre (Two and a Half Men) and Bill Prady (Dharma & Greg), as well as series stars Johnny Galecki (Roseanne), Jim Parsons (Garden State), Kaley Cuoco (Charmed), Simon Helberg (Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story), and Kunal Nayyar (NCIS). From Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television, The Big Bang Theory will air Thursdays at 8 pm ET/PT this fall on the CBS Television Network, and The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Third Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on September 14. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Humor & Satire | Television

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Michael Zulli— Artist and Comic-Con special guest Michael Zulli is best known for his work on Sandman with Neil Gaiman. Zulli talks about his career and what's coming next, including his new book, The Fracture of the Universal Boy. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

1:00-2:00 Bloom County's Berkeley Breathed: The Secret Sex Tapes— The creator of the Eighties' most enduring strip act, Comic-Con special guest Berkeley Breathed, reveals all the behind-the-scenes shockers...and some never-before-seen tests of the Miramax Opus movie that was eventually killed by the Deptartment of Homeland Security. Plus, Bill the Cat's private home videos of Jeanne Kirkpatrick, Diane Sawyer, and Barbara Bush. Room 6A
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire

1:00-2:00 Star Wars Day: Beyond Solo: Crafting the Multiplayer Story in Star Wars: The Old Republic— BioWare's James Ohlen (studio creative director and lead designer) Drew Karpyshyn (principal writer), Alexander Freed (managing editor), along with Jake Neri (senior producer, LucasArts), discuss the creation of the multiplayer, planet-spanning story in Star Wars: The Old Republic. While much attention has been paid to the unique individual stories of each of the eight classes in the game, the team is excited to share their approach to the broader stories players will experience in The Old Republic. Room 7AB
Categories:  Games | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-2:00 Twisted Metal Returns!— Car combat returns to the PlayStation 3. Meet game directors David Jaffe (God of War) and Scott Campbell (Downhill Domination) as they introduce the demented characters of the new game, share some early looks at the game's twisted end stories, and show concept art of the PS3 Twisted Metal that never was! Room 8
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games

1:00-2:00 ComicsPRO Update and Cookie Break!— Hey, comic retailers, creators, and publishers! Find out all the latest news about your trade and advocacy group from board members Joe Field, Carr D'Angelo, and Amanda Emmert. They'll fill you in on what plans are in store for ComicsPRO members, what benefits you can reap by becoming a Member or an Industry Partner, and what a difference everyone can make when they pitch in to improve the state of comics retail. All that and cookies, too! Room 13
Categories:  Comics | Retailer Programming

1:00-2:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Whilce Portacio and Francis Manapul— Acclaimed artists Whilce Portacio (Uncanny X-Men, Image United) and Francis Manapul (The Flash, Adventure Comics, Superman/Batman) will demonstrate how to create and draw characters for comic books. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 Mattel's Mattypalooza 2010: Masters of the Universe Classics, Ghostbusters and more!— Are you a Matty Mattel fan? Head over to this year's Mattypalooza to get all the latest info on your favorite Mattel collector lines, including Masters of the Universe Classics, DC Universe, Ghostbusters, and more from MattyCollector.com! Room 24ABC
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Movies | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 Yen Press— Catch up with the Yen Press crew to discuss new licenses, answer questions, and of course be there for the ever-important distribution of swag! Panelists include publishing director Kurt Hassler,  senior editor JuYoun Lee, assistant editor Tania Biswas, and editorial assistant Abby Blackman. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics

1:00-2:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #7: This is Your Brain on Comics Theory— Julia Round (Bournemouth University) argues that From Hell relies on a comics aesthetic, in which all panels are co-present in the page's spatial layout, to represent time as co-present and nonlinear. Neil Cohn (Tufts University) discusses two psychology experiments examining what happens in the brain when people read comics. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 Motion Picture and Television Production Designers— Motion picture and television production designers might take us to a 1930s prison break, a '50s drag race, a '70s disco, or even today's Comic-Con. Or, like this year's panel, they'll take you to unknown worlds that beggar the imagination—fully realized worlds with alternate architecture, interior design, cars, weapons, and more. In collaboration with a multi-person, highly skilled art department, they will conceive, hire, supervise, and even try to stay on budget as they create whole new worlds of the imagination. Panelists include moderator John Muto (Terminator 2: 3D), Mimi Gramatky (10,000 Days), Barry Robison (The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader), Kirk Petruccelli (Blade), and Oliver Scholl (The Time Machine). Room 32AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Costuming | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

1:00-2:00 Super— Writer/director James Gunn (Slither), stars Rainn Wilson (The Office), Liv Tyler (Lord of the Rings), Nathan Fillion (Firefly), and Michael Rooker (Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer), and producers Ted Hope (Adventureland) and Miranda Bailey (The Squid and the Whale) reveal footage from their latest feature production Super, including the first peek at Rainn and Ellen Page's costume design. Super is a hyper-real and shockingly funny look at the extremely violent antics of a down-on-his-luck man as he attempts to win his wife back from a glamorous drug dealer by teaming up with a psychopathic teen to become costumed crimefighters. Hall H
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Humor & Satire | Movies

1:30-2:30 A Tribute to Ken Krueger— He was the "go-to guy" and the "adult in the room" when Comic-Con first started 41 years ago. Ken Krueger was a dynamo who helped launch the country's largest comics and popular arts convention in 1970. Comic-Con friends and associates pay tribute to the life of this larger-than-life retailer, publisher, and fan in this special panel. Moderated by author Greg Bear (author, Quantico), and featuring fellow early Comic-Con committee members Scott Shaw! (Oddball Comics), Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk), J.M. Towry, Janice Campbell, and Wendy All. Room 3
Categories:  Comics | Fandom | Tributes

1:30-2:30 SHIFTing Gears: Tim Kring and Zach Quinto— Tim Kring (creator of Heroes) and Zach Quinto (Heroes' Sylar, Star Trek's Spock) discuss Tim's new venture into book publishing with his book, Shift, the first novel in the Gate of Orpheus trilogy. Tim will be debuting the book trailer and discuss the many other multiplatform elements he has created to promote the book. Join Tim and Zach for this one-on-one interview and Q&A session! Room 5AB
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Jerry Robinson— One of the true legends of comics, Comic-Con special guest Jerry Robinson is a writer, artist, historian, curator and creator rights activist. Jerry discusses his 70 years in comics—from his contributions to the Batman mythos to the creation of the Joker and development of Robin, Alfred, Penguin, Scarecrow and Two-Face. Jerry is interviewed by Michael Uslan, the executive producer of the Batman movies, comics historian, and author of the upcoming Archie Marries... (Abrams). In their discussion, Robinson and Uslan will take the audience from behind the scenes of the Golden Age of comics to the filming of The Dark Knight and Jerry's latest book projects.  Room 9
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

1:45-2:45 Batman: The Return— As the Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne rages on, follow the Bat-Signal to this panel and uncover clues about the future of the Dark Knight from some of the A-list talent behind the publishing line. If you think you know where this story's headed -- Think again! Hear it here from group editor Mike Marts, Paul Dini (Batman: Streets of Gotham), David Finch (Batman), Grant Morrison (Batman & Robin), Dustin Nguyen (Batman: Streets of Gotham), and others. Room 6DE
Room 6DE
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing


2:00-3:00 Graphic Novels: The Personal Touch— You know when you read it: that certain something that sticks out in a graphic novel. It's the personal touch, a work that draws on the life of the creator or the people around him or her. Call the work autobiographical, call it reality—many times it results in truly personal and inspiring comics. Comics creator and journalist Shaenon Garrity (Narbonic, Skin Horse) talks to Comic-Con special guests Gabrielle Bell (Cecil & Jordan in New York), Howard Cruse (Stuck Rubber Baby), Vanessa Davis (Make Me a Woman), Larry Marder (Beanworld), Jillian Tamaki (Skim), and C. Tyler (You'll Never Know Book 1: A Good and Decent Man) about their very personal work. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Stan Lee— Comics legend and Comic-Con special guest Stan Lee discusses some of his latest projects at POW! Entertainment and the future of comics and new media distribution, including challenges today's writers and artists face. Join Stan and company, including Gill Champion (COO POW! Entertainment) for this special panel, which includes a Q&A with "The Man" himself. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Webcomics

2:00-3:00 Star Wars Day: Inside the Force— Lucasfilm Animation artists Dave Filoni (supervising director), Joel Aron (CG supervisor), and Kilian Plunkett (lead designer), take you on an in-depth journey from script to screen, showing how an episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars is made and demonstrate the transformation of the animation style from Season One to the upcoming Season Three. Room 7AB
Categories:  Animation | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:00-3:00 Yo Gabba Gabba! - Panel, Q&A, and Prize Giveaway— For the first time ever, Christian Jacobs and Scott Schultz, co-creators of Yo Gabba Gabba!, will appear at Comic Con to discuss the pop culture phenomenon, which began as a breakout hit series on Nickelodeon produced by The Magic Store and W!LDBRAIN Entertainment, and has since become a hit on stage and screen with preschoolers, their indie-rock-loving parents, teens and young adults. Get the behind-the-scenes scoop on the recently announced 60-city North American tour, Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!: There's a Party in My City. Enter for a chance to win Yo Gabba Gabba! prizes. Get a first look at scenes from upcoming episodes, and be the first to hear about the highly anticipated Yo Gabba Gabba! comic book from Oni Press. Michael Polis, executive producer of Yo Gabba Gabba! and CEO of W!LDBRAIN Entertainment, moderates the panel, which includes Lance Robertson (DJ Lance Rock), Kevin Sukho Lee (animation producer, songwriter), J. Torres, (comic book writer/co-editor), and Matthew Lou (comic book artist). The panel will be followed by a Q&A session. Room 8
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Kids | Television

2:00-2:45 Bones— Creator and executive producer Hart Hanson and star David Boreanaz are on hand to discuss what went down in Season 5 of Bones and the cliffhanger finale as well as what's in store for Booth and Brennan in the exciting new Season 6! The panel will be followed with a Q&A session. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Television

2:00-3:00 Marvel Vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds— The wait is over! After a decade of demand, Capcom delivers with Marvel Vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds! Learn all you need to know about the characters, levels, storyline, fight moves, and combos from producer Ryota Niitsuma and special advisor Seth Killian of Capcom, along with TQ Jefferson, director of games at Marvel Entertainment, and Frank Tieri, storywriter for Marvel Comics. Then show off your fighting game skills as audience members are chosen for some spontaneous challenge matches to win exclusive MVC3 prizes, followed by a Q&A session. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comics | Games | Superheroes

2:00-3:00 Peanuts Turns 60— On October 2, 1950 the Peanuts comic strip launched in seven American newspapers. Little did anyone know the impact this comic strip would have around the world for decades to come. Nearly 60 years later, Peanuts appears in over 2,200 newspapers, in 75 countries and 21 languages. The animated specials have become a seasonal tradition and thousands of consumer products are available in every country around the world. Moderator Jerry Beck (animation historian/cartoon producer/consulting producer to Warner Bros., Universal, and Disney), Comic-Con special guest Jeannie Schulz (widow of Peanuts creator Charles Schulz), Paige Braddock (creative director of Charles M. Schulz's studio in Santa Rosa), Andy Beall (fix animation lead for Ratatouille, Wall-E, UP), Stephan Pastis (creator of Pearls Before Swine), and Marge Dean (general manager, W!ldbrain Animation Studios), present an in-depth foray into the work of Charles M. Schulz and what new things fans can look out for from Peanuts. Warner Premiere is joining the celebration with a sneak peek of something all new from Peanuts that fans won't want to miss. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Animation | Anniversaries | Cartooning and Comic Strips

2:00-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #8: Where Are the Action Chicks?— Katrina Hill (ActionFlickChick.com), Jill Pantozzi (MTV Splash Page), Adrianne Curry (America's Next Top Model), Cindy Morgan (Tron), Luci Romberg (Zombieland), Jen Stuller (Ink-Stained Amazons and Cinematic Warriors), Gina Misiroglu (Encyclopedia of Women in Popular Culture), Marjorie Liu (Black Widow), and J. Michael Straczynski (Wonder Woman) discuss why comics, television, and movies do not depict more action heroines and look specifically at why movies starring traditional comic book superheroines are nearly nonexistent. Room 26AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television

2:00-3:00 Animal Anatomy for Artists: How Drawing Masters Invent Creatures— Marshall Vandruff shows how masters have been trained in the knowledge of animal anatomy for the past 500 years. Leonardo da Vinci, Heinrich Kley, Albrecht Durer, Frank Frazetta, Winsor McCay, and many others were able to draw horses, lions, bears, and other beasts from imagination because they knew basic anatomy and form. Marshall will explain the process and recommend resources to help artists master animal anatomy so that they can invent creatures. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 Comic Book Law School: Hot Topics— Another year, another round of (legal) Hot Topics as a panel of knowledgeable (and entertaining) attorneys discuss and debate today's most interesting and cutting-edge legal issues faced by the creative and business communities. Attorneys David Branfman, David Lizerbram and Alexander Harwin, along with moderator Michael Lovitz, share their knowledge and insights, and discuss how these real-world issues affect individual creators and companies alike. Topics will include the benefits and perils of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other forms of digital content distribution, and termination of copyright grants, including updates on the Kirby and Superman termination cases. 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 1.0 credits of California MCLE.] Room 32AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Comics Law School | Webcomics | Writers & Writing

2:15-3:15 The Cape: Sneak Peek and Panel Discussion— One man can make a difference...When Vince Faraday, an honest cop on a corrupt police force, is framed for murder and presumed killed, he assumes the identity of his son's favorite comic book superhero -- The Cape -- to reclaim his name, family, and his city from the ruthless ARK Corporation and the masked villain known as Chess. Join the cast and creators including David Lyons (ER), Summer Glau (Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles), Dorian Missick (Six Degrees), James Frain (True Blood), Keith David (Gamer), Vinnie Jones (X-Men: Last Stand), Martin Klebba (Pirates of the Caribbean), composer Bear McCreary (Battlestar Galactica), creator/executive producer Thomas Wheeler (Empire), and showrunner/executive producer John Wirth (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles) for this sneak peek at the pilot episode and panel discussion. A limited collector edition of The Cape comic book, with a cover by superstar artist John Cassady (Astonishing X-Men), will be given away at the panel. Room 6A
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Comics | Superheroes | Television

2:15-3:45 Miramax Films: Don't Be Afraid of the Dark— Producer/co-writer Guillermo del Toro and director Troy Nixey present a first look at their new film Don't Be Afraid of the Dark, a hair-raising, spine-chilling tale of horror about a little girl (Bailee Madison) who is sent to live with her father (Guy Pearce) and his girlfriend (Katie Holmes) in the old mansion they are renovating, only to unwittingly unleash malevolent creatures bent on destroying all of them. Hall H
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Movies

2:30-3:30 The Image Comics Show— Image Comics promises a slew of exclusive announcements about upcoming projects, updates about ongoing projects, and a Q&A session with some of Image' best writers. Don't miss your chance to find out about what Image is up to before anyone else does, get exclusive giveaways, and ask questions of your favorite creators! Panelists include Marc Guggenheim (Resurrection, Web of Spider-Man), Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants), Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead, Invincible), John Layman (Chew), Ben McCool (Choker, Memoir), and Nick Spencer (Existence, Morning Glories). Room 3
Categories:  Comics

2:30-3:30 Nickelodeon: Penguins, Lemurs, and Pandas, Oh My!— See Penguins of Madagascar executive producers Mark McCorkle and Bob Schooley (Kim Possible), supervising producer Nick Filippi (Wolverine & X-Men), creative consultant and voice of "Skipper" Tom McGrath (Madagascar 1 & 2), and cast members John DiMaggio (Futurama), Jeff Bennett (The Misadventures of Flapjack), James Patrick Stewart (Wolverine & X-Men), Danny Jacobs (Epic Movie), and Kevin Michael Richardson (The Cleveland Show) present highlights from the upcoming Penguins special "The Lost Treasure of the Golden Squirrel" and perform a table read from a new episode. Then get a special preview of the upcoming Nickelodeon series Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness, presented by executive producer Peter Hastings (Pinky and the Brain), supervising producer Bret Haaland (The Penguins of Madagascar), supervising producer Randy Dormans (The Penguins of Madagascar), and supervising director Gabe Swarr (The Penguins of Madagascar). Moderated by Rich Magallanes, VP of animation for Nickelodeon, and Megan Casey, executive-in-charge for Nickelodeon. Room 5AB
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

2:30-3:30 Spotlight on Steve Rude— Award-winning artist and Comic-Con special guest Steve Rude describes the high points of his career, including how he broke into comics; the various comics he's worked on, including Nexus, World's Finest, and Space Ghost; and the trials of working on them. Plus Steve gives his thoughts on today's current comics and artists. A "big surprise" will also premiere at this panel. Room 9
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

2:30-3:30 The 24-Hour Comics Day Challenge— Can you create a full 24-page comic from scratch in 24 hours? Popular comics creators give out tips and tricks to help you complete the challenge this year and have your comic included in the international 24-Hour Comics collection. Or are you interested in hosting a 24-Hour Comics Day event in your area? Nat Gertler (publisher of About Comics and founder of 24-Hour Comics Day) and Portlyn Polston (Brave New World Comics, Newhall, CA) can tell you how to create and advertise a successful event at your store, school, or library. Room 12
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Émile Bravo— Eisner Award 2010 nominee -- three nominations for My mommy is in America and she met Buffalo Bill (Fanfare/Ponent Mon) -- and Comic-Con special guest Émile Bravo makes an illustrated presentation: "Graphic Writing, Comics as Calligraphy," with Michele Foschini (BAO Publishing, Italy) and Stephen Vrattos (Captain Gravity; www.heroesinmycloset.com), followed by a Q&A. Room 4
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Superman: Man of Tomorrow— It's a bird! It's a plane! It's The Man of Steel -- and he's back on Earth and primed to take 2010 by storm! Don't miss members of the exciting new Superman creative teams as they discuss their plans for Superman, Lex Luthor, Superboy, Supergirl, and more led by DC group editor Matt Idelson, with Paul Cornell (Action Comics), Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Jeff Lemire (Superboy), J. Michael Strazcynski (Superman: Earth One, Superman), and others. Room 6DE
Categories:  Comics | Superheroes

3:00-4:00 Star Wars Day: Star Wars Trivia Game Show— Members of the San Diego Star Wars Society, veteran hosts of trivia game shows at Star Wars Celebration III and Comic-Con International since 2002, have prepared a bigger challenge this year for all fans who think they know their stuff about the galaxy far, far away. Added this year will be one game round for kids 12 and under. Test your knowledge and win one of the many valuable prizes. Room 7AB
Categories:  Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:00-4:00 Bite Me: Evolving Urban Fantasy Beyond the Vampire Phenomenon— Some of the top names in urban fantasy gather to discuss how to evolve the urban fantasy genre beyond the vampire phenom, spurred by the mass commercial appeal of The Twilight Saga and True Blood. Authors include Tanya Huff (the Victoria Nelson novels), Mario Acevedo (the Felix Gomez detective-vampire series), Merrie Destefano (Afterlife: The Resurrection Chronicles), Jocelynn Drake (Pray for Dawn), Richard Kadrey (Sandman Slim), Lauren Kate (Fallen series), and Marjorie M. Liu (In the Dark of Dreams). Moderator: Diana Gill, executive editor at HarperCollins Publishers. Room 8
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Jim Lee— This is your opportunity to see Comic-Con special guest Jim Lee draw for an hour! Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

3:00-3:45 The Joss Whedon Experience— Every year Joss Whedon, the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Dollhouse, and Serenity, comes to Comic-Con to give fans a wide-ranging and digressive look into what's keeping him busy. Join Joss and a few thousand of his closest friends for the Q&A. Spoiler Alert! Ballroom 20
Categories:  Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Chris Claremont— Comic-Con special guest and world-renowned writer Chris Claremont talks about his career in this special Spotlight panel. Claremont's incredible body of work, including his many years writing the X-Men and his newest collaborations with Tom Grummet (X-Men Forever) and fellow special guest Milo Manara (X-Women), are fan-favorites. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on the Adams Family: Neal, Jason, Joel, and Josh— Comic-Con special guests Neal, Jason, Joel, and Josh Adams make up one of the first families of comics. Neal started his career in the medium in the late 1950s and is famous for his depictions of Batman and numerous other characters. Sons Jason, Joel, and Josh have followed in their dad's rather large footsteps to carve out careers of their own in sculpture, animation, and comics. Be a part of this first time ever "family reunion" as the Adams Family gets together at Comic-Con! Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

3:00-4:00 Hi-Fi Color for Comics— Every month your favorite comic books must be colored before going to press, but just how are comic books colored? Learn about the creative art of comic book coloring from Hi-Fi's Brian Miller (Legion of Superheroes) and Kristy Miller (Birds of Prey), as Brian demonstrates the step-by-step transformation of a comic book page from black and white to full color. Learn the basics of flatting, rendering, color holds, and special effects and top digital coloring tips. Q&A if time permits. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Digital Comics and You— A panel of industry professionals ranging from creators to publishers to retailers to entertainment agents discuss the benefits and drawbacks of digital comics and ultimately how digital comics can and will affect you, now that the digital comics revolution has begun. Ben Templesmith (co-creator, Choker, Fell, 30 Days of Night), James Sime (retailer, Isotope: The Comic Book Lounge in San Francisco), Micah Baldwin (Graphic.ly), Scott Agostoni (entertainment agent, William Morris Endeavor), and more surprise guests will discuss, argue and hopefully hear what you think in this honest, no-holds-barred conversation moderated by Ron Richards (iFanboy). Room 32AB
Categories:  Comics | Webcomics

3:15-4:15 Spartacus: Blood and Sand— Andy Whitfield (McLeod's Daughters) makes his Comic-Con debut, along with Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess), John Hannah (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), and Viva Bianca (Bad Bush). Executive producer Stephen S. DeKnight (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) joins the cast to discuss the upcoming prequel, titled Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, expected to air on Starz in January 2011, and the exclusive content found on the first season Blu-ray discs, available September 21. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 Building a Horror Entertainment Franchise: Dead Space 2— The sequel to 2008's award-winning horror videogame returns with its highly anticipated sequel in January 2011. Dead Space 2 unleashes a truly epic terror experience that will bring the psychological thrills of deep space to a terrifying new level beyond just video games. Executive producer Steve Papoutsis,  art director Ian Milham, and producers Rich Briggs and Chuck Beaver will be talking about how they intend to establish Dead Space 2 among the top horror entertainment franchises in the world with a novel, animated feature, graphic novel, Motion Comic game and fan merchandise. Room 3
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games | Horror and Suspense

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Nicholas Gurewitch— Comic-Con special guest Nicholas Gurewitch is the Eisner and Harvey Award–winning cartoonist behind the hilarious online comic strip The Perry Bible Fellowship. Now being reprinted by Dark Horse, Gurewitch's twisted strips are fan-favorites the world over. Hear what's next from Gurewitch in this exclusive Spotlight panel. Room 5AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Humor & Satire | Webcomics

3:30-4:30 Terra Nova— Executive producers Brannon Braga (24, Star Trek: Enterprise) and David Fury (24, Lost), director Alex Graves, and star Jason O'Mara (Life on Mars) offer a glimpse into the highly anticipated epic family adventure 85 million years in the making. This new event drama slated for midseason on FOX comes from the brilliant minds of Steven Spielberg (Jurassic Park, The Pacific) and former News Corporation president and COO Peter Chernin and follows an ordinary family on an extraordinary journey back in time to prehistoric Earth as a part of a massive expedition to save the human race. Room 6A
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 VIZ Media's Vampire Knight Panel— Calling all Vampire Knight fans! Here's your chance to meet the U.S. manga editor, Nancy Thistlethwaite, and voice-over talent from the anime -- Mela Lee (Yuki), Vic Mignogna (Zero), and Ethan Murray (Kaname). Come dressed in your best Vampire Knight gear and you'll be eligible for a prize! Room 9
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga

3:30-4:30 Comics Design— How do pages of art become a book? Six designers -- Mark Chiarello (DC Comics), Adam Grano (Fantagraphics), Chip Kidd (Random House), Fawn Lau (VIZ), Mark Siegel (First Second Books), and Keith Wood (Oni Press)—discuss what's involved in the process of comics design, and the importance of design to a book's critical and consumer reception. Moderated by Chris Butcher (The Beguiling). Room 26AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

3:30-4:30 Writing for Television: From First Draft to Getting Staffed— Spiro Skentzos (George Lopez) and Karen Horne (NBC Executive/Spawn Co-Producer) share their experiences in TV as a writer and as the Director of NBC’s writing programs, respectively, on topics including basic script mistakes, how to get representation, staying motivated, and negotiating today’s turbulent TV terrain. After the lecture, there will be a Q & A session. Marriott Hall 2
Categories:  Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 Krazy Kat's 100th Anniversary Celebration!— An exclusive multimedia show of unpublished strips, drawings, and paintings presented by Craig Yoe, author of Krazy + Ignatz in Tiger Tea (IDW) and the forthcoming Krazy Kat and The Art of George Herriman: A Celebration (Abrams ComicArts). The panel will explore a century of Krazy-ness, with Greg Goldstein (IDW), R. C. Harvey (The Art of the Funnies), Charles Kochman (Abrams ComicArts), and Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Plus a thrilling bonus: a never-before-seen home movie of Krazy's kreator, George Herriman! Room 4
Categories:  Anniversaries | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips

4:00-5:00 The Center for Cartoon Studies— Comic-Con special guest James Sturm, known for his graphic novels such as The Golem's Mighty Swing, is also the director of The Center for Cartoon Studies (CCS), a school located in the historic downtown village of White River Junction, Vermont. The school offers a two-year course of study that centers on the creation and dissemination of comics, graphic novels, and other manifestations of the visual narrative. The faculty includes renowned comics artists such as Stephen Bissette and Jason Lutes. James will talk about the school and the books the students have produced. Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Sean Philips— Comic-Con special guest, artist Sean Phillips (Criminal, Marvel Zombies) and moderator/artist Duncan Fegredo (Hellboy, Jay and Silent Bob) have known each other for over twenty years. Hear Duncan ask Sean questions that Duncan already probably knows the answers to! See lots of Sean's art you haven't seen before! (Unless you read his blog.)  Room 8
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes

4:00-6:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Patrick and Shelly Block— Comics writer/artists Patrick and Shelly Block will present a comics creation demonstration that they often give at the Savannah College of Art and Design and other venues. They create a Donald Duck story on paper or an easel, with the audience providing the ideas. Room 18
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-5:00 Entertainment Weekly: Girls Who Kick Ass: A New Generation of Heroines— EW moderates this discussion with Jena Malone (Sucker Punch), Anna Torv (Fringe), Chloe Moretz (Kick Ass), Adrianne Palicki (Red Dawn and Friday Night Lights), and Ellen Wong and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Scott Pilgrim vs. the World) about the next generation of female action heroes and the power and privilege of playing young women who are nobody's arm candy. Moderated by Nicole Sperling. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Television

4:00-5:00 Fable III— Journey from a revolutionary to king or queen of Albion and along the way battle enemies far and wide while meeting a hilarious cast of characters. Fable III features a stellar voice cast, including John Cleese in the role of your personal butler, and boasts an Academy Award winner as well. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Games | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy

4:00-5:00 Breaking into Comics— A bold first step into breaking into comics starts here. Top comics creators Mike Costa (G.I. Joe: Cobra, The Authority: Jack Hawksmoor, Transformers) and Reilly Brown (Cable & Deadpool, The Incredible Hercules) discuss the ins and outs of the comic industry -- specifically, what it takes to break in and how it's done! Get solid and sound advice on what it takes and how to get started! Moderated by Comics Experience's Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Annihilation, G.I. Joe).  Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:30 So You Want to be a Comic Book Retailer?— Your first steps to having your very own comic book store start right here! This Comic-Con tradition is always a lively and fun discussion of the brick and mortar basics of launching your own career as a comic book specialty retailer. You have questions? Our panel of experienced retailers has answers! Hosted by Joe Field (ComicsPRO president, Flying Colors Comics, Concord, CA) with fellow retailers Thomas Gaul (Corner Store Comics & Beach Ball Comics, Orange County, CA), Derrick Taylor (Comic Oasis, Las Vegas, NV), David Wheeler (Dragon's Lair, Austin, TX), Michael Ring (Bridge City Comics, Portland, OR) and Diamond Comic Distributors outside sales manager Dave Hawksworth. Room 32AB
Categories:  Comics | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops

4:00-6:00 Sony Pictures Entertainment: The Other Guys and The Green Hornet— Two more sneak peeks at upcoming films from Sony Pictures Entertainment!
The Other Guys--NYPD Detectives Christopher Danson and P.K. Highsmith (Dwayne Johnson and Samuel L. Jackson) are the baddest and most beloved cops in New York City. Two desks over and one back, sit Detectives Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell) and Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg). You've seen them in the background of photos of Danson and Highsmith, out of focus and eyes closed. They're not heroes -- they're "the Other Guys." But every cop has his day and soon Gamble and Hoitz stumble into a seemingly innocuous case no other detective wants to touch that could turn into New York City's biggest crime. It's the opportunity of their lives, but do these guys have the right stuff? Will Ferrell, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes, and co-writer/director Adam McKay will be appearing in person.

The Green Hornet--Director Michel Gondry, who makes movies with a special, personal signature, is taking on The Green Hornet—and he's doing it in 3D. Comic-Con audiences, prepare yourselves. In The Green Hornet, Britt Reid (Seth Rogen) is the son of L.A.'s most prominent and respected media magnate and perfectly happy to maintain a directionless existence on the party scene—until his father (Tom Wilkinson) mysteriously dies, leaving Britt his vast media empire. Striking an unlikely friendship with one of his father's more industrious and inventive employees, Kato (Jay Chou), they see their chance to do something meaningful for the first time in their lives: fight crime. To get close to the criminals, they come up with the perfect cover: they'll pose as criminals themselves. Protecting the law by breaking it, Britt becomes the vigilante The Green Hornet as he and Kato hit the streets. Confirmed to appear in person to unveil this early look at The Green Hornet in 3D are the Hornet himself, Seth Rogen,  director Michel Gondry, writer Evan Goldberg, producer Neal Moritz, and actor Christoph Waltz.
Hall H
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Movies | Superheroes

4:15-5:15 DC Nation Special Edition— It's the DC Nation State of the Union address as DC co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee join forces to give fans all the info they can handle! With those two leading the Nation, expect the unexpected...The Nation welcomes all! Room 6DE
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

4:30-5:30 Indy Comics Writers Unite!— Another in our series of "Year of the Writer" events, this panel focuses on independent comics writers (and some writer/artists!). Moderator Mark Waid (Amazing Spider-Man, Irredeemable) talks to Van Jensen (Pinocchio: Vampire Slayer), Larry Marder (Beanworld), Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), and Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise, Echo) about the fine art of writing comics without capes (on the protagonists, not the writers themselves). Room 3
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

4:30-5:30 Four Worlds, One Story: Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions the Video Game— For the first time, creative talent from all four Spider-Man universes featured in the game Shattered Dimensions (Amazing, Noir, 2099 and a to-be-revealed universe) come together to discuss all the aspects that go into creating a dynamic and explosive video game experience from four unique settings. Get an insider's look at the creative thinking and collaborative effort between comic books and video games with Spider-Man co-creator Stan Lee, acclaimed Marvel writer Dan Slott (Amazing Spider-Man), voice-over talent from the game, and members from Marvel and game developer Beenox, as they dive into the rich lore of past and present Spider-Man, discuss bringing Spider-Man to life in four distinct ways, and unveil new content and gameplay from the upcoming game. Room 5AB
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Games | Superheroes

4:30-5:30 Adult Swim Panel Featuring Robot Chicken, Venture Bros, and Metalocalypse— Show creators Seth Green, Matt Senreich, and Tom Root (Robot Chicken), Jackson Publick and Doc Hammer (Venture Bros), and Brendon Small (Metalocalypse) discuss their original series, screen sneak peeks, and answer questions. Keith Crofford, VP of production at Adult Swim, will moderate. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

4:30-5:30 Fallout: Game Writing in Evolving Franchises— Obsidian Entertainment, the developers working on Bethesda's upcoming Fallout New Vegas, walk through the process of narrative and cinematic techniques used in bringing life and reactivity to franchises over the years, focusing on their upcoming work on Bethesda's Fallout New Vegas. Examples will also be drawn from upcoming titles, Dungeon Siege III, and previous titles such as Neverwinter Nights 2, Alpha Protocol, and Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords. The developers will discuss how the franchise and development team can help guide the narrative and cinematic presentation of these elements and will showcase footage from these titles. Room 9
Categories:  Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

4:30-5:30 Archaia: Lucid— Lucid, the first comic book project from Archaia's partnership with Before the Door, is finally here! Lucid creator and writer Michael McMillian (True Blood) and BTD partners Zachary Quinto (Star Trek, Heroes), Neal Dodson, and Corey Moosa share cool, behind-the-scenes info and other interesting tidbits about the making of the comic. Moderated by Archaia editor-in-chief Stephen Christy. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Comics

4:30-5:30 Pixar Animation Studios: Ronnie Del Carmen— As in comic books, the expression of storytelling in movies is done with images, staging, acting, and a myriad other skills. The Pixar Story process uses the same focus and much more. Ronnie Del Carmen (story supervisor, UP) delves into the Story process few rarely see and offers a glimpse of what it's really like to work in Story @ Pixar, followed by Q&A. Room 26AB
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

4:45-5:45 Falling Skies— They're coming. Get the very first look at Steven Spielberg's new series that envisions a world where aliens have invaded and the fate of humanity lies in the hands of a few survivors. Noah Wyle (ER, TNT's The Librarian movies) and Moon Bloodgood (Terminator Salvation) join co-executive producer and writer Mark Verheiden (Heroes, Battlestar Galactica) for a Q&A on the new series. Falling Skies premieres on TNT next summer. Room 6A
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

5:00-6:30 Scribe Awards/Media Tie-in Writers Panel— Presenting the fourth annual International Association of Media-Tie-in Writers (IAMTW) "Scribe" awards, honoring such notable franchises as CSI, Criminal Minds, The X-Files, Star Trek, Stargate, Star Wars, and Dr. Who. Nomineeson hand include Alina Adams (As the World Turns), Max Allan Collins (G.I. Joe), Keith R. A. DeCandido (Star Trek), Stacia Deutsch (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs), Jeff Mariotte (CSI), Nathan Long (Warhammer), and Dayton Ward (Star Trek). With moderator Collins and awards presenter Lee Goldberg (Monk). Room 4
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 Spotlight on Drew Struzan— See the premiere screening of excerpts from Drew: The Man Behind the Poster, a feature-length documentary film about the career of movie poster artist and Comic-Con special guest Drew Struzan, featuring exclusive interviews with George Lucas, Harrison Ford, Michael J. Fox, Frank Darabont, Guillermo del Toro, Steven Spielberg, and many others. Q&A will include Struzan and filmmakers Erik Sharkey (director), Charles Ricciardi (producer), Greg Boas (editor and cinematographer), and Marc-Antoine Serou (cinematographer). Room 7AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:00-6:00 Costuming for Conventions— Fan costuming veterans will help you with all you need to know for making a great costume for strolling around a convention. They cover everything from choosing a costume and knowing what fabrics work best to posing for photos and general tips for wearing a costume around the exhibit floor. Presented by Masquerade assistant Melissa Gene Meyer, professional promotional costumer Chris Richard, and award-winning masquerade costumer Catherine Fisher. Room 8
Categories:  Costuming | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 Girls Gone Genre: Movies, TV, Comics, Web— Meet and talk with women who write, read, game, and perform in arenas that are historically and statistically dominated by men. What's it like to try and get a job in a field where most of your competitors and colleagues are guys? Can women write men, and vice versa? And what happens when traditionally "male" genres are reinvented by female writers and embraced by female fans? Sex and the City it ain't! Meet the women who like to play with trucks and Barbies...and Wolverine action figures. And flux capacitors. Featuring Felicia Day (writer/producer, The Guild; actress, The Guild, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog), Kathryn Immonen (writer, Patsy Walker: Hellcat, Runaways, Heralds), Laeta Kalogridis (screenwriter/producer, Shutter Island, Ghost in the Shell, Avatar), Marti Noxon (screenwriter/producer, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Mad Men), Melissa Rosenberg (screenwriter/producer, Dexter, The Twilight Saga), and Gail Simone (writer, Wonder Woman, Birds of Prey).Moderated by Io9's Annalee Newitz. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Games | Television | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:30 Resin Casting and Silicone Moldmaking— Jeff Broz has presented eight previous seminars about plastics and casting at Comic-Con. Sam Girgis is producing large-scale garage kits. Whether you want to produce a garage kit model, reproduce your sculpture, or reproduce vintage Steampunk, this year's seminar will cover new materials and tips from previous seminars about silicone mold design and casting techniques. Learn from the presenters' own pitfalls with short-run 3D duplication, garage kits, and industrial design. They will also talk more about vendors, guides, and material choices to cast your sculptures or models. Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Costuming | Fandom | Seminars & Workshops

5:15-6:15 True Blood Panel and Q&A session— Mixing romance, suspense, mystery, and humor, True Blood kicked off its 12-episode third season June 13 on HBO. The series, which has earned two Golden Globe nominations for Best Television Series—Drama, follows the romance between waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin, Golden Globe winner for True Blood season one; Oscar-winner for The Piano), who can hear people's thoughts, and her soulmate, 173-year-old vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer). Alan Ball (creator of the Emmy-winning HBO series Six Feet Under) created and serves as executive producer of the series, which is based on the best-selling Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. The series also features Nelsan Ellis as Lafayette Reynolds, Sam Trammell as Sam Merlotte, Rutina Wesley as Tara Thornton, Deborah Ann Woll as Jessica Hamby, Kristin Bauer van Straten as Pam, Denis O'Hare as Russell Edgington, the Vampire King of Mississippi, and Joe Manganiello as Alcide Herveaux. (Note: names in bold will be appearing on the panel.) Moderated by Tim Stack of Entertainment Weekly. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Famous Monsters of Filmland: From the Pages and Beyond— Philip Kim (publisher) and Michael Heisler (editor-in-chief) have successfully established the tone of Famous Monsters of Filmland from issue #250 and beyond. Join Michael, Phil, Jessie Lilley (editor), and guest Bela Lugosi Jr. (son of Dracula legendary actor Bela Lugosi) as they discuss the past and the future of genre. Room 3
Categories:  Animation | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

5:30-6:30 Concept Design for Entertainment— Avatar and many recent and upcoming productions are using not only state-of-the-art technology but also state-of-the-art design. Four of the industry's leading and award-winning creature and production designers discuss and demonstrate how films are made from a nuts and bolts perspective and share their creative and artistic approach to design in film. Avatar's lead creature designer Neville Page, production designer Rob Stromberg, concept designer Craig Shoji, and technical creature developer Alex Alvarez share not just the process of design but also the philosophical perspectives behind the approach. Room 5AB
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Movies

5:30-6:30 Vertigo: On the Edge— Find out what compelling tales comics' edgiest imprint has in store for you in the months to come! Led by senior VP/executive editor Karen Berger, the all-star lineup of talent includes Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Gabriel Bá (Daytripper), Cliff Chiang (Neil Young's Greendale), Max Allan Collins (Road to Perdition), Joshua Dysart (Neil Young's Greendale, Unknown Soldier), Peter Gross (The Unwritten), Matt Kindt (Revolver), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth), Peter Milligan (Greek Street, Hellblazer), Fabio Moon (Daytripper), Chris Roberson (iZombie), Scott Snyder (American Vampire), Matthew Sturges (Jack of Fables), Jill Thompson (Little Endless), Bill Willingham (Fables) and others. Room 6DE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Top Shelf 2010: Sweden, Japan, and so much more!— The crew at Top Shelf Productions celebrate their most international year yet, discussing their hit "Swedish Invasion" initiative, the acclaimed graphic novel The Playwright from British-Australian expats Eddie Campbell and Daren White, and their brand-new book of cutting-edge manga, Ax. They'll dish all the digital details on the exciting new Top Shelf apps for iPhone and iPad! And they'll show off exclusive sneak previews of upcoming books from Robert Venditti (The Surrogates), Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill (League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Marshal Law), Jeffrey Brown (Incredible Change-Bots), Jeff Lemire (Essex County, Sweet Tooth), Nate Powell (Swallow Me Whole), and so much more! Plus Top Shelf's hottest creators take your questions! Room 9
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics

5:30-6:30 Shout! Factory: Roger Corman: King of the Independents— If your idea of fun is watching wild and outrageous cult flicks, you will not want to miss this! Oscar recipient for Lifetime Achievement and legendary director/producer Roger Corman takes center stage to share insights on his incredible filmmaking career. Notable Corman alumni will also be in attendance to reflect on their involvement during his New World Pictures era in the'70s and '80s, at a time when grindhouse theatres and drive-ins were the place to see over-the-top sex and violence. Panelists include Joe Dante (director of Piranha), Sid Haig (The Devil's Rejects), Mary Woronov (House of the Devil), and Allan Holzman (director, Forbidden World). Moderated by Alex Stapleton (director of King of the B's: The Independent Life of Roger Corman). Short Q&A if time permits. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

5:30-6:30 Neko Press: How to Publish Your Work and Survive as an Independent Artist— Billy Martinez, publisher and creator presents an in-depth look into self-publishing and ways to maintain your career as an artist. He will give a helpful look and insight into what it takes to keep a company and career going strong. Billy is best know for his fan-favorite title Kickass Girl and has been working in the business as a freelance artist and publisher for over 16 years. Room 26AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 What's up with Penguin— Anne Sowards (executive editor, Ace/Roc), Jessica Wade (editor, Ace/Roc), and Mardie Cohen (marketing coordinator, Penguin Young Readers Group) give you the dish on forthcoming books from such exciting authors and licensed properties as Jim Butcher, Charlaine Harris, Patricia Briggs, S. M. Stirling, Rachel Caine, Heather Brewer, Richelle Mead, Kathy Reichs, John Flanagan, Star Wars: Clone Wars, and many more. You can expect lots of giveaways you won't see anywhere else at Comic-Con, including free advance reading copies! Room 32AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Kids | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

5:45-6:45 Marvel: The Heroic Age: Avengers— The Heroic Age is here! Heeding the call, Earth's Greatest have assembled for the most anticipated comic's event in a decade! With Steve Rogers back leading the charge, what kinds of threats can his teams expect to face? Find out here as the creators behind your favorite Marvel heroes answer your questions and let you in on what happens next! Editor-in-chief and CCO Joe Quesada, Marvel's talent liaison C. B. Cebulski, and creators Brian Michael Bendis,(Avengers), Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man), Jim McCann Hawkeye & Mockingbird), and more shed some light on the Heroic Age. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

5:45-6:30 Branching Out: The National Comic Book Store Franchise— David Wheeler (Dragon's Lair, TX and WA) talks about his emerging national franchise of comic book stores and the challenges and benefits of operating multiple locations, along with two-store owner Carr D'Angelo (Earth-2 Comics, Sherman Oaks and Northridge, CA). The panel is aimed at retailers who are interested in opening a second store and also at new entrepreneurs who are interested in joining a new national franchise. Room 12
Categories:  Comics | Retailer Programming | Seminars & Workshops

6:00-7:00 BBC America's Being Human— Creator/writer Toby Whithouse and cast members Russell Tovey, Lenora Crichlow, Aidan Turner, and Sinead Keenan are on stage for a fan Q&A and exclusive inside peek at the new U.S. premiere season launching the same weekend as Comic-Con. The Los Angeles Times declared, "Buffy fans -- come out of the Twilight and sink your teeth into this import." Don't miss the chance to get the inside secrets on the double-lives of a werewolf, a vampire, and a ghost, joined this season by George's friend Nina, who's got a mysterious secret of her own. Room 6A
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

6:00-7:00 Archer— Creator and executive producer Adam Reed (Sealab 2021, Frisky Dingo) screens selected scenes from the FX animated series Archer, which recently won a NowNewNext Award for "Best Television Show You're Not Watching" from cable's Logo network. He will take questions from the audience along with Aisha Tyler, who provides the voice of Agent Lana Kane, the strong, voluptuous, and often exasperated secret agent. Adam and Aisha will discuss the evolution of the series as well as the voice-over process. Room 7AB
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

6:00-7:00 The Artist as Brand— The walls between the fine art and commercial art worlds are falling. Join a discussion about new paradigms of creative and financial empowerment for artists, with Greg Spalenka (The Voyage of the Dawn Treader), Donato (Lord of the Rings), Tara McPherson (Faith No More, Duran Duran), Ciruelo (Fairies and Dragons), Arnie Fenner (editor of Spectrum), and Mark Murphy (publisher of Fine Art Editions). Manifest a unique art empire beyond the worlds of established corporate venues. Room 8
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops

6:00-7:00 The Goon Film Panel— The Goon creator Eric Powell joins Tim Miller and Jeff Fowler from Blur Studio to discuss the animated feature film adaptation of the comic book series. Room 24ABC
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies

6:00-7:00 Simpsons Collectors Group— Simpsons collectors of the world unite! Take a break from the busy Comic-Con floor and get a chance to meet some of your fellow collectors of Simpsons merchandise from all over the country. Meet the other Simpsons collectors you see on the message board and put faces to names. This gathering, hosted by the staff of the SimpsonsCollectors.com website, is a great chance to network with other collectors and share your experiences in the hobby with others.  Santa Rosa Room, Marriott Hotel and Marina
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Fandom | Humor & Satire | Television

6:30-7:30 The Future of Manga— When many people today think of "comics," they think of webcomics and indy releases, but Japanese comics still seem like a distant world of print-based megapublishing and tattered copies of Shonen Jump. Think again. The manga world in Japan is changing due to competition from ebooks, cell phones and online comics, and the old manga magazines may not be the same for much longer. How are Japanese artists today publishing their works, and what will the manga of the future look like? A visual presentation by Jason Thompson (Manga: The Complete Guide). Room 3
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics | Webcomics

6:30-7:30 Thomas Jane and Tim Bradstreet's RAW Entertainment— Join the crew from RAW Entertainment as they discuss their exciting slate of current and upcoming projects in comics and film. Moderated by Thomas Jane (Hung, The Punisher), and Tim Bradstreet (The Punisher), panelists include Bernie Wrightson (Frankenstein), Bruce Jones (Twisted Tales), James Daly (Bad Planet), William Stout (Pan's Labyrinth), Mark Schultz (Cadillacs & Dinosaurs), Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), and a surprise guest! Room 4
Categories:  Comics | Movies

6:30-7:30 Small Print Comics: Jeffrey Twohig— Jeffrey Twohig, who has been producing digital printed art and books for over 10 years, talks about on-demand printing, how to produce your own short-run comics, and getting your artwork reproduced when you need it. Room 5AB
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

6:30-7:30 Archaia: All Access— Get updates and new information on all of your favorite Archaia titles, including Awakening with writer Nick Tapalansky and artist Alex Eckman-Lawn; Critical Millennium: The Dark Frontier with writer Andrew E. C. Gaska and artist Daniel Dussault; Feeding Ground with creators Chris Mangun, Swifty Lang, and Michael Lapinksi; God Machine with creator Chandra Free; Gunnerkrigg Court with creator Tom Siddell; Hybrid Bastards! with writer Tom Pinchuk; The Killer with writer Matz; Killing Pickman with writer Jason Becker; Titanium Rain with writer/artist Josh Finney and artist Kat Rocha; and Starkweather: Immortal with writer David Rodriguez and Patrick McEvoy. Room 9
Categories:  Comics

6:30-7:30 TV Guide Magazine: The 2010 Hot List— Featuring the hottest supernatural/sci-fi talent in front of the camera and behind the scenes from new and returning series! Moderated by TV Guide magazine's executive editor Craig Tomashoff, the panel includes Morena Baccarin (V), Brannon Braga (Terra Nova, Flash Forward), Michael Chiklis (No Ordinary Family), Keith David (The Cape), Zachary Levi (Chuck), David Lyons (The Cape), Elizabeth Mitchell (V), Chi McBride (Human Target), and others to be announced! Ballroom 20
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Superheroes | Television

6:30-7:30 Gears of War 3— Epic Games design director Cliff Bleszinski, executive producer Rod Fergusson and New York Times bestselling author Karen Traviss provide the first look at the biggest game of 2011, including a live game demo and key announcements. Room 25ABC
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Games

6:30-7:30 Action Figures: Behind the Plastic— This is your chance to get the inside scoop on action figure lines you love, straight from the people who make them! AFi has assembled a legendary panel of experts from every corner of the toy world. They'll talk about the difference between being the licensor vs. the licensee, the back story of a toy line, keeping up with the editorial side of a property, taking a chance on new products, and more. Come armed with the burning questions you have always wanted to ask the experts! Moderated by Daniel "Julius Marx" Pickett of ActionFigureInsider.com. Panelists include Aaron Archer (Hasbro), Georg Brewer (DC Direct), Jesse Falcon (Marvel Entertainment LLC), Randy Falk (NECA), Jason Lenzi (Bif Bang Pow! Toys), Jerry Macaluso (PopCultureShock Collectibles), Scott Neitlich (Mattel), Chuck Terceira (Diamond Select Toys), David Vonner (Hasbro), and The Four Horsemen (Four Horsemen Studios). Room 26AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles

6:30-7:30 Artist's Choice: Drawing Batman— Superstar Batman artists share the secrets of drawing the Dark Knight with a special projector designed so you can see their every stroke. Check out this unique presentation that will surely blow your mind! Room 30CDE
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

6:30-7:30 Old School American Horror— Featuring legendary horror icons and the hottest names in the genre, the cast of Hatchet II presents an old school American horror panel. Kane Hodder (Friday The 13th), Tony Todd (Candyman), R. A. Mihailoff (Texas Chainsaw Massacre), Danielle Harris (Halloween), Tom Holland (Child's Play), and Adam Green (Hatchet) are on hand for an unforgettable panel. Room 32AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Movies | Television

Nighttime Programs

7:00-8:00 RiffTrax Live— Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett (RiffTrax.com, Mystery Science Theater 3000) return to Comic-Con to perform another live, hilarious riff to a classic short! The panel is moderated by Veronica Belmont (host of Tekzilla on Revision3 and Qore on the PlayStation Network). Join the riffers for fun, laughs, and the latest news from RiffTrax.com, the site where MST3K-style humor meets mainstream movies, TV shows, and vintage shorts. Room 6DE
Categories:  Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

7:00-8:00 America's Greatest Otaku— Stu Levy, Tokyopop's founder, producer of The Dreaming, and director of Van Von Hunter discusses the production of Tokyopop's America's Greatest Otaku, an upcoming reality TV show that searches for the biggest fan of manga, anime, and Japanese pop culture. Levy will be joined by the Otaku Six, the show's energetic cast, who are traveling across America, documenting various otaku culture hotspots as they search for the nation's greatest fan. The panel will be followed by a prize giveaway and Q&A session. Room 8
Categories:  Anime & Manga | Comics | Fandom | Games | Nighttime Programming | Television

7:30-8:30 Udon: 10 Years of Comics and Games— Celebrating Udon's 10th anniversary, Erik Ko (Udon chief), Jim Zubkavich (Udon project manager), Omar Dogan (Street Fighter Legends, Robotech), Chamba (Street Fighter II Turbo), Joe Ng (Street Fighter IV, Transformers), and others share tips and tricks they've learned working with some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Capcom, Marvel, Hasbro, and Blizzard. Find out how to break into the biz, and get a sneak peek at Udon's upcoming projects. Room 3
Categories:  Comics | Games | Nighttime Programming

7:30-8:30 Machinima: The Artform and Opportunity— Future filmmakers and animators are embracing Machinima as a way to make movies they otherwise couldn't create, and with unprecedented success! Machinima has matured as an artform and an exciting storytelling medium. Panelists Hutch (Machinima Respawn), Adam Kovic (Inside Gaming), Khail Anonymous (Critical Flaw), Lyle Burress (Sanity Not Included), Ralph Sanchez (Dragon Age: Warden's Fall) and moderator Jeremy Azevedo share the why and how of their accomplishments. Also, learn how Machinima.com can help you "Greenlight Yourself!" Room 4
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Nighttime Programming | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

7:30-8:30 Klingon Lifestyles: IKV Stranglehold— The latest mission of the Stranglehold finds the crew pitted against Starfleet in trying to posses a mysterious object that could mean the possible death of anyone. Can the return of Eeba and Merkin help or hinder this? All species are welcome to experience the ongoing voyage and adventure of life aboard a Klingon vessel. Room 6A
Categories:  Fandom | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

7:30-8:30 Discovery Channel's Reign of the Dinosaurs— Immerse yourself in next spring's TV blockbuster, as an all-star crew reveal the secrets behind Discovery Channel's genre-busting journey back to the Prehistoric. Confirmed panelists include Iain McCaig (Star Wars), David Krentz (Disney's Dinosaur), and Ricardo Delgado (Dark Horse Comics' Age of Reptiles), all of whom will be pitching their stories live! Hosted by producer Erik Nelson (Grizzly Man), the panel goes deep behind the scenes for an in-depth look at how this landmark production is creating stories, characters, and digital models for the new standard in realistic dinosaur storytelling. A once-in-a-decade opportunity to be present at the creation of an epic miniseries. Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Art and Illustration | Nighttime Programming | Seminars & Workshops | Television

7:30-8:30 30 Days of Night: Dark Days— This highly anticipated sequel to the box office hit 30 Days of Night is based on the second book of the cult graphic novel series and will debut on Blu-ray and DVD this fall from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Director/co-screenwriter Ben Ketai (Dusk to Dusk), graphic novel creator/co-writer Steve Niles, stars Keile Sanchez (Lost), Diora Baird (TCM: The Beginning), and Rhys Coiro (Entourage, upcoming Straw Dogs), and producer J. R. Young (Ghosthouse) are on hand for an exclusive sneak peek, panel, and Q&A session. Room 7AB
Categories:  Comics | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Nighttime Programming

7:30-8:30 Grant Morrison: Talking with Gods— Get a first look at the upcoming feature-length documentary chronicling the life and work of one of comics' greatest writers, Grant Morrison. Featuring extensive interviews with Morrison himself as well as key collaborators, the film takes you inside Morrison's creative process and explores how his life and work have become inextricably intertwined. Moderated by FJ De Santo (producer, The Spirit), the panel features Patrick Meaney (director), Jordan Rennert (DP/producer), and a special guest! Room 9
Categories:  Comics | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Writers & Writing

7:45-9:15 The Totally Rad Show: Live— Hosts Alex Albrecht (Diggnation), Dan Trachtenberg, and Jeff Cannata (Weekend Confirmed, Reviews on the Run) bring their Webby and Podcast Award-winning geek culture show back to Comic-Con for the third straight year. Join the guys for an explosion of movie, video game, TV, and comic book news and reviews, and see what makes this Revision3 show such an Internet phenomenon. Room 5AB
Categories:  Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Anime & Manga | Comics | Fandom | Games | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television

8:00-9:00 Anthropology of Twilight Zone— Daryl G. Frazetti (anthropologist, Western Nevada College) and Curtis Webster (Spirit of Star Trek host) examine Rod Serling's exploration of the ambiguity of reality as it relates to the human condition, exceeding cultural space/time constraints. This panel examines questions such as: What is the deeper cultural meaning of "perception"? What is the cultural meaning of myth? How might Twilight Zone function as myth? How do Sterling's insights speek to concepts of cultural and linguistic relativism? Don't miss this enthralling discussion on the mix of Serling's magic and science fiction as the presenters follow each twist and turn that moves the meanings of his stories into the mythical realm. Participation highly encouraged! Room 8
Categories:  Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

8:00-10:00 World Premiere: Batman: Under the Red Hood— Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment, and Warner Bros. Animation proudly present the World Premiere of Batman: Under the Red Hood, the eighth entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 movies. In the film, Batman faces his ultimate challenge as the mysterious Red Hood takes Gotham City by firestorm. One part vigilante, one part criminal kingpin, Red Hood begins cleaning up Gotham with the efficiency of Batman, but without following the same ethical code. Killing is an option. And when The Joker falls in the balance between the two, hard truths are revealed and old wounds are reopened. The stellar voice cast is led by Bruce Greenwood (Star Trek), Jensen Ackles (Supernatural), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), John DiMaggio (Futurama), Jason Issacs (the Harry Potter films), and Vincent Martella (Phineas & Ferb). Executive producer Bruce Timm (DCU films), director Brandon Vietti (Superman: Doomsday), award-winning comics writer Judd Winick, casting/dialogue director Andrea Romano (DCU films) and members of the voice cast will be around for a postscreening panel that will reveal details behind the making of the film, a glimpse of the 2011 DC Universe Animated Original Movies slate, and a first look at the next DCU film, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse. Warner Home Video will distribute Batman: Under the Red Hood on Blu-Ray and DVD, OnDemand and For Download on July 27, 2010. Note: a second encore screening will take place in the same room beginning at 10:15. Ballroom 20
Categories:  Animation | Comics | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

8:15-9:15 Marvel: Iron Man Anime— Witness the dawn of Marvel Anime with the world premiere of the highly anticipated full-length pilot episode of Iron Man! Also: an exclusive first look at upcoming designs produced by the world-renowned Japanese animation studio Madhouse, whose notable films (to name a few) include hits such as Ninja Scroll and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. Room 6DE
Categories:  Animation | Anime & Manga | Comics | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

8:30-9:30 Ironclad Panel and Footage— A medieval Magnificent Seven that combines the visceral action of 300 with the impassioned heroism and romance of Braveheart, Ironclad is a violent action thriller that tells the true story of a motley crew of tough, battle hardened warriors, who withstood several brutal and bloody months under siege, in a desperate bid to defend their country’s freedom. Starring James Purefoy, Paul Giamatti, Brian Cox, Kate Mara, Jason Flemyng, and Derek Jacobi. Filmmakers Jonathan English (Minotaur), Andrew Curtis (Lost In La Mancha), and Rick Benattar (Shoot 'em Up) will screen an 11-minute battle sequence from the film and host a Q&A afterward. Special surprise guests to appear! Room 7AB
Categories:  Action/Adventure | Movies | Nighttime Programming

8:30-11:30 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards— The 22nd annual Eisner Awards, the "Oscars" of the comics industry, will be given out at a gala ceremony at the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront. This year's special theme is "Comics Fiesta." The masters of ceremony are Bongo Comics' Bill Morrison and voice actor Maurice LaMarche (Pinky and the Brain, Futurama). Presenters include writer/actor Thomas Robert and Ben Garant (Reno 911, Balls of Fury), cartoonist Berkeley Breathed (Bloom County), comedian/voice actor Phil LaMarr (Futurama, Family Guy, MadTV), comics writer James Robinson (Starman, Justice League of America), with many more to be announced. Other prestigious awards to be given out include the Russ Manning Promising Newcomer Award and the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. Admission to the Eisners is free to all Comic-Con attendees -- just be sure to bring your badge. Doors open for pro and VIP seating at 7:30 and for attendees at 8:15. All those who attend will receive a free Will Eisner graphic novel. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories:  Art and Illustration | Awards Ceremonies | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Nighttime Programming | Writers & Writing

8:45-10:45 Syfy Friday Night Screening: Eureka and Haven— Just because it's Comic-Con doesn't mean you have to miss your favorite Syfy shows. Join Syfy fans for this week's all-new episodes of Eureka (guest-starring Wil Wheaton) and Haven, featuring a special introduction from Jaime Paglia (co-creator/executive producer/writer, Eureka). Room 6A
Categories:  Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

9:00-10:00 Worst Cartoons Ever— Animation historian Jerry Beck (Cartoon Brew) returns with an all-new program of some of the worst cartoons ever made, including the Phys Ed super-hero Mighty Mr. Titan, space cadet Johnny Cypher, and a canine crime fighter named Bat Beagle. Have a ball with the best/bad animation ever! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television

9:30-10:30 The Blood Factory— To unlock the bone-chilling secrets of The Blood Factory, join Danny De Vito (actor/director/star of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia), John Albo (writer/director of Flexing with Monty), Nick Bonamy (art director of The Blood Factory), "Tkay" Raul Garcia (website developer), Frank Ippolito (effects makeup, Pirates of the Caribbean 2 & 3), and William Mesa (visual effects, Army of Darkness). Relish new short films from The Blood Factory: tales of horror that will conjure nightmares to disturb your sleep for nights to come. Room 5AB
Categories:  Horror and Suspense | Nighttime Programming | Television

10:00-12:00 Spike & Mike's Festival of Animation: Sick and Twisted— Spike and Mike's Festival of Animation blasts back to Comic-Con with the venerable cult classic festival "Sick and Twisted," chock full of new and classic downright wrong cartoons. Come join the fun and meet Spike! Room 6BCF
Categories:  Animation | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming

The Daily Beast: "Stephen King's Haven on Syfy: Is It the Next Twin Peaks?"

Looking for more information about Syfy's newest drama series Haven?

Head over to The Daily Beast, where you can read my latest feature, entitled "Stephen King's Haven on Syfy: Is It the Next Twin Peaks?" where I talk to executive producers Sam Ernst and Jim Dunn as well as series lead Emily Rose about the spooky supernatural drama, based on Stephen King's novella "The Colorado Kid."

Haven premieres tonight at 10 pm ET/PT on Syfy.

Once for Luck: An Advance Review of Season Four of Syfy's Eureka and New Series Haven

Tonight, Syfy launches two series, one returning favorite and a new offering, both of which are set in small towns that conceal the truth about their nature.

Syfy itself has had more success with its light procedurals such as Eureka and Warehouse 13 (which itself returned to the lineup earlier this week) than with the sort of doom-and-gloom of fellow original series Caprica, but that doesn't mean that the network should slide permanently over to to the sunny side of the genre. (After all, there does need to be not only a balance between light and darkness in terms of tone but also a sense that there's a variety of programming on offer at the cable network.)

However, summer might just be the perfect place for such sci-fi jocularity and off all of Syfy's series, the one that best achieves the blend of humor and action (along with a real sense of speculative fiction) is Eureka, created by Andrew Cosby and Jamie Paglia.

Eureka returns tonight with its fourth season premiere ("Founder's Day"), which is hands down the very best installment of the sci-fi series to date, offering a tale of time travel, doomed romance, potential hope, and the sort of scientific appetite that, well, founded Eureka in the first place.

It's an episode that plays around with its soapy elements (marriage proposals, breakups, and romantic entanglements of all kind) as well as the space-time continuum, and features a look at the Eureka that was, gloriously recreating the 1940s military base camp atmosphere as the modern-day residents celebrate Founder's Day... and some of them get a first-hand look at what really went down in the past.

Without giving too much away, I will say that that the episode shakes things up considerably for the characters, most especially for Sheriff Jack Carter (Colin Ferguson), Allison Blake (Salli Richardson-Whifield), Henry Deacon (Joe Morton), Jo Lupo (Erica Cerra), and Fargo (Neil Grayston), resulting in a series of events that, well, that would be giving things away.

At the center of this mystery and its dramatic consequences is a new face to Eureka: Dr. Grant, played with superb wit and charisma by former Battlestar Galactica co-star James Callis. While he played BSG's Baltar with a combination of narcissism and self-loathing, here Callis imbues Grant with a certain rougish je ne sais quoi while making the brilliant theoretical physicist utterly appealing at the same time. Suffice it to say that the town of Eureka may never be the same after Grant crosses paths with Carter and Allison. Hmmm...

All in all, "Founder's Day" (and the following installment, which picks up the action scant seconds after the end of "Founder's Day") is a superb start to a season that promises to be Eureka's finest and a fantastic jumping-on point for viewers new to the series. It's an episode that's packed with pathos and humor and an unpredictable nature that points towards anything being possible in Eureka... and indeed probable.

Eureka – “Founder’s Day” Sneak Peek Clip


Syfy's newest series, Haven, lacks the charm and poise of Eureka. The pilot episode, which airs tonight after Eureka starts off on a strong note as FBI Agent Audrey Parker (Emily Rose) finds herself shuttling towards a small Maine fishing town in pursuit of a suspect... and manages to uncover both a decades-old secret about the town of Haven and a startling connection to her own mystery-shrouded past.

Written by Sam Ernst and Jim Dunn, Haven has some promise but the second half of the pilot episode seems to squander it. Rather than embed some real grit and eeriness into the drama, it descends into somewhat stereotypical sci-fi trappings about supernatural abilities, mysterious storms, and easily solved crimes of the week, whereas they should be making Haven into a depository for our dreams (and nightmares) about small coastal towns, where the quirkiness (or even oddness) of the inhabitants is at odds with the idyllic nature of the place itself.

It's hard not to compare it to David Lynch and Mark Frost's seminal small town drama Twin Peaks, albeit without the terror lurking behind every patterned sofa. But while Haven needn't be as bleak or terrifying as Twin Peaks, it needs to become a little less soft and a little more threatening at times, as though the morning mist and dead of night are themselves potentially ominous symbols of coastal life for an outsider like Audrey.

A love triangle that's quickly set up between Audrey and two very unlikely suitors--local cop Nathan (Lucas Bryant) and bad boy Duke Crocker (Eric Balfour)--is an interesting angle, particularly as the romance doesn't completely intrude on the action, nor does it make Rose's Audrey Parker any less steely or inquisitive.

There's potential to be had in Haven, if the writers can find the right tone and the right balance of serialized and procedural elements. In the meantime, however, Haven might be one town you want to check out of early.

Haven – “Welcome to Haven” Sneak Peek Clip


Season Four of Eureka begins tonight at 9 pm ET/PT on Syfy, immediately followed by the series premiere of Haven at 10 pm ET/PT.

Channel Surfing: HBO's Miraculous Year Lands Lee Pace, Team Darlton Talk Lost, Friday Night Lights, and More

Welcome to your Friday morning television briefing.

According to Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello, HBO's drama pilot Miraculous Year, from executive producer Kathryn Bigelow just got even more miraculous. The project, which is described as "an examination of a New York family as seen through the eyes of a charismatic, self-destructive Broadway composer," just signed a slew of stars to round out its cast, including former Pushing Daisies star Lee Pace, Linus Roache (Law & Order), and Stark Sands (Generation Kill)... who will join the already high-wattage cast of Eddie Redmayne, Hope Davis, Frank Langella, and Patti LuPone. (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

E! Online's Megan Masters spoke to former Lost showrunners Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse about the ABC drama's Emmy nominations now that the series has wrapped up its six-season run... and why they chose to break their radio silence. "Every year after the finale we've always gone into radio silence just because we're pretty sick of ourselves, so we can't even imagine what everybody else thinks of us," said Lindelof. "And we've always broken our radio silence at Comic-Con, and this year we're obviously not going to Comic-Con because it's about promoting something to come. The idea of looking back on the show is not something we were particularly interested in, looking back at ourselves. But around a week ago, Carlton and I had both been on vacation and received an email from someone at ABC asking [if we would] be willing to do some press. And that was our first contact with each other where it was like, alright, of course. If the show gets recognized, it feels totally appropriate for us to express out feelings about how awesome that is. There's no reason to not talk about Lost ever again, it's just not in our DNA. Had the show not been nominated for anything, I'm sure Carlton and I would have emerged at some appropriate time over the summer to talk about—" "To begin begging for work at Starbucks," Cuse cut him off, laughing. (E! Online's Watch with Kristin)

Elsewhere, Deadline's Nellie Andreeva also caught up with Team Darlton to discuss the 12 Emmy nominations that Lost racked up yesterday and on the divisive series finale. "I do feel we spent so much time talking about how we were gonna end the show (we started getting questions about that right after the pilot) so the fact that we ended it on our own terms makes us feel absolutely no regrets," said Lindelof. "We acknowledge that it was always a polarizing show that created many theories and made fans passionate about it. It wouldn’t be Lost if everyone loved the finale, but we’re pretty pleased." (Deadline)

Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello caught up with Friday Night Lights's Connie Britton, who received an Emmy nomination alongside her co-star Kyle Chandler yesterday and who thought that "there must be some mistake." (Aw.) Asked whether she had received an interesting phone calls after the nomination, Britton replied, "I just had a really fun phone call with our executive producer Sarah Aubrey. She works with Peter Berg and has been involved with Friday Night Lights since the movie, and is arguably one of the most passionate people ever about this show. She was like, 'I was doing Pilates and I just unabashedly started jumping up and down!' It’s just exciting. We’re about to wrap the show—we’re two weeks away from wrapping the show—and it’s been really melancholy. I’m just feeling it. I’m feeling it approaching—the end is near. So this just feels like such an unexpected surprise and present." (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Remember the rumor floating about the other day that the star of Vicky Cristina Barcelona would be dropping by Glee as a rock star who befriends Artie? Apparently, there's no truth to that story whatsoever, according to Los Angeles Times's Maria Elena Fernandez. A 20th Century Fox Television spokesperson has denied reports that Javier Bardem--and Snoop Dogg--would be appearing on FOX's Glee next season. (Los Angeles Times' Show Tracker)

With Steve Carell set to leave NBC's The Office at the end of next season, one of the show's producers has her sights on his replacement. Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello talks to co-executive producer Mindy Kaling about her pick to take over as the boss in Scranton. "I’d love to see Rainn Wilson in that position,” said Kaling. “Dwight has become so nuanced — you actually care about him now. I think if [we did a good job laying the groundwork] this coming season, he would be a fantastic boss... But that’s my dream. It certainly hasn’t been approved by people that are more powerful than me and who make those kinds of decisions." (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

ABC has announced premiere dates for all of its new and returning fall series (except, that is, for Body of Proof and Secret Millionaire):

September 20th:
Dancing with the Stars
Castle

September 21st:
Detroit 1-8-7

September 22nd:
The Middle
Better With You (formerly known as Better Together)
Modern Family
Cougar Town
The Whole Truth

September 23rd:
My Generation
Grey's Anatomy
Private Practice

September 24th:
20/20

September 26th:
America's Funniest Home Videos
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Desperate Housewives
Brothers & Sisters

September 28th:
No Ordinary Family
Dancing with the Stars Results Show

You'll notice that while ABC did change the the title of one of its series, that series isn't Cougar Town, which will keep its title going into its sophomore season after all. (via press release)

Comedy Central has ordered a script for multi-camera comedy Brothers From Another Mother, which will feature comedians Ralphie May and Lavell Crawford as long-time friends who discover that, despite their racial differences, they are actually brothers when their father dies and leaves them his barbeque business. (Hollywood Reporter)

Lewis fans, take heart: ITV has ordered a fifth season of Lewis, comprised of four episodes. (Broadcast)

File under litigious: Hayden Christensen is using USA, claiming that the network stole his idea about a concierge doctor who makes house calls to his wealthy patients and turned it into its dramedy series Royal Pains, now in its second season. Christesen and his brother Tove filed the lawsuit in New York District Court. "The brothers allegedly brought the idea for a concierge doctor show titled Housecall to USA and met with Alex Pepiol, who at the time was manager of original scripted series programing at the network," writes The Hollywood Reporter's Eriq Gardner. "They say they also sent him materials including a treatment, character biographies and show ideas." (Hollywood Reporter)

Season Four of reality series LA Ink will kick off on TLC on Wednesday, August 11th at 10 pm ET/PT. (via press release)

Stay tuned.

San Diego Comic-Con 2010: Thursday Schedule Live

Huzzah! With just two weeks to go before the start of San Diego Comic-Con 2010, the convention has finally begun to release its full schedule.

Continuing its trend of releasing single-day lineups over four days, the convention has today announced the programming schedule for Thursday, July 22nd. Among the offerings on the first day of Comic-Con 2010, Tron: Legacy, Caprica/Battlestar, Charlaine Harris, Burn Notice, Salt, Battle: Los Angeles, White Collar, Psych, JJ Abrams/Joss Whedon, Transformers Prime, The Expendables, Look Around You, Children's Hospital, Dexter, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, and much more.

The big ticket event will likely be Entertainment Weekly's JJ Abrams and Joss Whedon nerdvana panel, likely to be one of the toughest sessions to gain admission to. It's now officially set for 3:30-4:30 pm in Hall H.

The full schedule for Thursday can be found below. Be sure to come back tomorrow for Friday's lineup...

Continue reading full story...




Thursday, July 22
10:00-11:00 Jeff Smith— The perfect way to start off Comic-Con 2010's program schedule is with a visit with Jeff Smith! Jeff discusses his current sci-fi adventure series, Rasl, as well as the upcoming Bone books from Graphix. Highlights include plans for the upcoming 20th anniversary celebration of Bone and all the latest on the Warner Bros. Bone feature film! Room 5AB
Categories: Anniversaries | Comics | Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:00-11:00 Anarchy In The USA: 2000 AD Invades Comic-Con— Pat Mills (2000 AD creator) and Keith Richardson (2000 AD graphic novels editor) discuss all things 2000 AD related with a focus on the new mass-market U.S. graphic novels line. Room 9
Categories: Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:00-11:00 The Spark of Imagination— Peek inside the minds of leading authors and filmmakers to explore how imagination informs the creative process. New York Times bestselling children's author Tony DiTerlizzi (The Spiderwick Chronicles) details the precedent-setting augmented reality used in his new Simon & Schuster novel The Search for Wondla; LAIKA president/CEO Travis Knight (lead animator on the Oscar-nominated stop-motion movie Coraline) explains how his studio will continue to take bold chances in the animated feature film world; and graphic novelist and Comic-Con special guest Doug TenNapel (Earthworm Jim) describes exactly how a blank page comes to be inhabited with his compelling imagery. Geoff Boucher, reporter and HeroComplex.com blogger with the Los Angeles Times, moderates this fascinating panel discussion and Q&A. Room 25ABC
Categories: Animation | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

10:00-11:00 Fan's Guide to Comic-Con— Wesley Strawther, Matthew Jeffrey, and Jesse Lopez present their own version of Comic-Con survival tips with an hour of helpful hints any fanboy or fangirl will enjoy. Hear what these three convention veterans (with more than three decades of attendance combined) have to say about getting through your weekend with as few headaches -- and as much fun -- as possible. Room 32AB
Categories: Fandom

10:00-11:00 DreamWorks Animation: Megamind— DreamWorks Animation makes its Comic-Con debut with Megamind. The characters Megamind and Metro Man are jettisoned to Earth as babies when their home planets are destroyed. Megamind crash-lands inside a maximum-security prison, where he evolves into the wicked and diabolical genius he is today, while the dashingly handsome superhero Metro Man grows into the universally adored savior of Metro City, beloved by every man, woman and child -- and especially the city's ace reporter Roxanne Ritchi. These life-long archenemies will rewrite superhero movie lore when they challenge each other to the ultimate showdown of Good vs. Evil! Megamind stars Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Jonah Hill and director Tom McGrath join forces to unveil footage from DreamWorks Animation's November 5 release. Hall H
Categories: Animation | Movies | Superheroes

10:15-11:15 DC Comics Writers Unite!— Originally a successful panel at WonderCon 2010, "Comics Writers Unite!" (see the Comic-Con Souvenir Book for a transcript) brought together a number of special guests to talk about the art of writing. Part of a series of programs at this year's Comic-Con celebrating "The Year of the Writer," this panel features special guests Paul Levitz (Legion of Super-Heroes), Dennis O'Neil (Batman, The Question), and J. Michael Straczynski (Superman, Wonder Woman), along with Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Secret Six), Judd Winick (Justice League: Generation Lost, Power Girl), and moderator James Robinson (Starman, Justice League of America). Room 6DE
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 Tripwire Magazine— Editor-in-chief Joel Meadows, U.S. editor Andy Grossberg, and staff writer/artist Jeff Carlisle from Tripwire magazine discuss the present and future -- digital and otherwise -- of comics, movies, and our genre culture. There may be treats for a lucky few. Room 3
Categories: Comics | Fandom | Movies

10:30-11:30 DC Talent Search— DC's editorial art director Mark Chiarello presents an informative orientation session that will explain how DC's Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of DC Universe, Vertigo, WildStorm and MAD magazine publications. If you want to learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, this is the panel for you! To have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4
Categories: Comics | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-11:30 Danny Elfman— From Pee-Wee's Big Adventure to Alice in Wonderland, composer Danny Elfman discusses his 25-year collaboration with director Tim Burton. Their legendary partnership includes such films as Beetle Juice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Joining Mr. Elfman will be Warner Brothers Records executives to announce their plans to celebrate this quarter-century milestone. Room 6BCF
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:30-11:30 TheOneRing.net Talks The Hobbit movies— Chris Pirrotta, Cliff Broadway, and Larry D. Curtis, staff members from TORn (the gold standard of fansites and a consistent breaking news source) talk about the latest on the two coming Hobbit films, including mainstream news, spy reports, and rumors. Special guests are a possibility; audio and visuals are a given with a Q&A and all sorts of fun. Room 7AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

10:30-11:30 Divas and Golden Lassoes: The LGBT Obsession with Super Heroines— Why do LGBT comic book fans, especially gay men, worship female superheroes? Going beyond just collecting the comics of Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Donna Troy, Saturn Girl, and many more, LGBT fans intensely identify with and take great inspiration from these iconic heroines. To discuss this phenomenon, moderator Charles "Zan" Christensen (Mark of Aeacus) has assembled an esteemed panel featuring Marc Andreyko (Manhunter), Phil Jimenez (The Essential Wonder Woman Encyclopedia), Andy Mangels (founder, "Wonder Woman Day"), and Michael Troy (The Blonde Squad). Room 8
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

10:30-11:30 The Power of Myth— Fantasy authors discuss claiming world mythology to shape one's own stories. Authors include Comic-Con special guest Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson and the Olympians series), Amber Benson (the Calliope Reaper-Jones Novels), Esther Friesner (Sphinx's Princess), Thomas Greanias (The Promised War), Lev Grossman (The Magicians), Les Klinger (editor, The New Annotated Dracula), Seanan McGuire (the October Daye novels), Michael Scott (the Secret of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series), and Thomas Sniegoski (Where Angels Fear To Tread). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 24ABC
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

10:30-11:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #1: Comics in the Classroom— Lisa Vizcarra (Carquinez Middle School) explores the pedagogy for creating a middle school biology curriculum based on the book Becoming Batman by E. Paul Zehr, who will join the discussion. Kathy Hall (El Camino College) gives an overview of techniques and assignments for teaching Watchmen in the first-year composition course. Robyn A. Hill (National University) and Bill McGrath (National University) provides illustrations and examples of how comics formats can be used for differentiated instruction to English learners. Room 26AB
Categories: Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops

10:30-12:00 Comic Book Law School 101: Start Your (Creative) Engines!— Any racer will tell you that the key to winning is preparation. The same is true for creative enterprises—rushing a new property out the door without the proper IP protections in place could be costly. Luckily, help is close by, as the Comic Book Law School series returns to Comic-Con, brought to you by noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book. This interactive lecture series provides a basic foundation for understanding copyright and trademark law. Up first, the basics of protection and ownership of ideas, works of authorship, characters, and names from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees will participate in an interactive discussion about basic rights provided under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, as well as new decisions and changes in the law and how they could affect those rights. Along the way, there will be plenty to learn about the protections, and pitfalls, of the U.S. trademark and copyright systems. Note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.] Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Comics Law School | Writers & Writing

10:45-11:45 Cuckoo Nest Films: Hoohah! Heroes Behind the Heroes— This preview of the new film Hoohah! Heroes Behind the Heroes delves into the lives of the creators responsible for writing and drawing some of comics' most beloved heroes and villains, from the whimsical and humorous to the terrifying. It's through their stories in comic books that we come to know these writers and artists on a personal level. Panelists Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Mark Evanier (Groo the Wanderer), Bill Morrison (Simpsons Comics), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), and Scott Shaw! (Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew!) engage in a discussion and Q&A session with director Jerry Hogrewe. Room 6A
Categories: Comics | Movies | Superheroes

11:00-12:00 That Chris Gore Show— Attack of the Show's film expert Chris Gore promises a glimpse into geekdom and a raucus Q&A. Gore will show a preview of his upcoming documentary, present a sneak peek of his new show, and finally answer the burning question, what is the greatest DVD of all time? Room 5AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies

11:00-12:00 The Clockwork Girl— The Clockwork Girl is in production as a stereoscopic 3D computer generated feature film based on the comic book series published by Arcana. Producer Sean O'Reilly will talk about how CJ Entertainment financed Dreamworks Animation in 1995 and is now behind The Clockwork Girl through Luximation Animation. Alexa Vega (Spy Kids) and Sean Covel and Doc Wyatt (Napoleon Dynamite) talk about the feature film and show an exclusive featurette for The Clockwork Girl. Room 9
Categories: Animation | Comics | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:00-12:00 BOOM! Irredeemable/Incorruptible Panel— Mark Waid's bestselling/multiple sellout Irredeemable took comicdom by storm last year, becoming one of the top-selling independent comics of 2009. Writer Mark Waid and Irredeemable artist Peter Krause look back at the series' beginnings, its future, and its sister series, Incorruptible. Big announcements will be made at this not-to-be-missed panel for any fan of these books! Room 32AB
Categories: Comics

11:15-12:45 Walt Disney Pictures: TRON: Legacy— Returning for an unprecedented third year to the fans and convention that started it all, Walt Disney Pictures is pleased to present a special insider look at the upcoming TRON: Legacy. Panelists include filmmakers and talent from the film: director Joe Kosinski, producers Sean Bailey and Steven Lisberger, and cast members Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde, Michael Sheen, and Bruce Boxleitner. The discussion, moderated by Patton Oswalt, is set to include exclusive glimpses of the film, as well as a Q&A involving all panel participants, along with special surprise guests. Hall H
Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:30-12:30 Dumbrella— Artists from Dumbrella, one of the most popular online comic collectives, discuss webcomics, independent publishing, and subverting popular culture. Feel free to quiz Andrew Bell (The Creatures in my Head), Meredith Gran (Octopus Pie), Jon Rosenberg (Goats), Richard Stevens III (Diesel Sweeties), and Chris Yates (Chris Yates Studios) about anything your Internet heart desires. Room 3
Categories: Comics | Webcomics

11:30-12:30 Action Webcomics— Does this sound like you: you love action comics but the big companies aren't hiring you. So you decide to make your own but have no cash for printing and distribution. Web comics could get you past those hurdles but you can't find many action-based comics on the web. Where can you find the tools and inspiration to make your high-octane dream come true? John Van Fleet (Marvel, DC), Dave DeVries (Marvel, DC) and Alex Jimenez (Capcom, Seed Studio) -- the creators of the action packed webcomic Blueshift -- join forces to answer and inspire you to full-throttled Internet expression! Whether your story is science fiction, superhero, fantasy or horror, this seminar will turn the hurdles of creation, promotion, and team building into manageable speed bumps. Q&A session! Room 4
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Webcomics

11:30-12:30 DC Nation Convention Kickoff!— The DC Nation invades San Diego and you're invited along for the ride! Celebrate the start of what promises to be an unforgettable convention experience. Your hosts, DC co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee get the party started here! The Nation welcomes all. Room 6DE
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

11:30-12:30 Mattel and WWE: The Ultimate Tag Team— Take a peek behind the curtain of two of the world's top entertainment companies to learn how WWE's exciting storylines come together and get translated into Mattel's all-new action figure toy line! Get a sneak peek at upcoming products and be the first to hear exciting announcements for the 2011 line. Don't miss out! Join WWE Superstars The Miz and Eve, WWE SVP of creative writing Brian Gewirtz, WWE lead writer Ed Koskey, WWE VP of global licensing Florence DiGiorgio, Mattel toy designers Bill Miekina and Derek Handy, and Mattel WWE brand manager Enrique Ruvalcaba for an action-packed Q&A! Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Television

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Kurt Busiek— The Eisner Award–winning writer and Comic-Con special guest discusses his career -- past, present, and future -- in comics. With a résumé that includes Superman, Justice League/Avengers, Conan, and his own creator-owned projects Astro City and Arrowsmith, Kurt Busiek is one of comics most popular writers! Room 8
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

11:30-12:30 Iron Man and Rocket Men: Is Stark Industries an Appropriate Model for Private-Industry Space Exploration?— Leading New Space entrepreneurs Mark Street (XCOR Aerospace) and John Hunter (Quicklaunch) discuss realistic options for future space exploration. Presented by the San Diego Space Society (SD Space), the panel also includes Chris Radcliff (SD Space) and Dave Rankin (The Mars Society - San Diego cofounder). Jeff Berkwits (former Amazing Stories editor and two-time Hugo Award nominee) moderates. Room 24ABC
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

11:45-12:45 Spotlight on Stan and Hunter Freberg— He's the icon who has been at the forefront of pop culture for over 60 years; she's the popular media personality who has entertained audiences on TV and in personal appearances. Stan and Hunter Freberg were such a hit at last year's Comic-Con we brought them back for a return appearance as special guests. Comic-Con stalwart -- and friend of the Frebergs -- Mark Evanier introduces this special spotlight panel. Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Humor & Satire | Television

12:00-1:00 X-Play LIVE: A Show on Television— Through 12 years, three name changes, and over 1,000 episodes, X-Play has persevered as the most watched video game show on television. Each episode is packed with brutally honest reviews, previews, hands-on demos, and the occasional off-hand reference to early David Cronenberg movies. Hosts Adam Sessler and Morgan Webb, with correspondents Blair Herter, Abbie Heppe, and the X-Play crew, take questions from the audience, reveal world exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, and mock whoever dares ask about the infamous "Crisis Core" review. You'll find out what it really feels like when you win a Telly, how deep cable is a life-changing experience, and why having a career playing video games can actually be as fun as it sounds. Room 5AB
Categories: Fandom | Games | Television

12:00-1:00 Caprica, Battlestar, and Beyond— Hosted by actor/author Richard Hatch (Tom Zarek, Capt. Apollo, So Say We All), this panel features composer Bear McCreary (Battlestar, Ureka, Caprica), producer/writer Michael Tayler (Battlestar, Caprica, Star Trek), science consultant Kevin Grazier (Battlestar, Ureka), and special guests. Richard and the panelists will proide reviews, discussion, and Q&A of Caprica, Battlestar Galactica, and the upcoming BSG movie, including trailers. Room 6A
Categories: Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

12:00-1:00 Oni Press Presents Panelmonium 2010— Often imitated but never duplicated! Get up close and personal with trend-setting indie comics powerhouse Oni Press. Join in the Q&A with your favorite Oni creators, including Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt (The Sixth Gun), Jarrett Williams (Super Pro K.O.), Rafael Albuquerque (Mondo Urbano), and many more! Get sneak peeks at upcoming Oni projects, news on Oni Press fan initiatives, free Oni comics, prizes, and more! Guaranteed by Oni Press's totally biased employees to be "the most fun you'll ever have at a panel." Room 9
Categories: Comics

12:00-1:00 Dead Rising 2— Dead Rising 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Capcom's multi-million-selling zombie action video game is here! Dead Rising 2 executive producers Keiji Inafune and Shinsaku Ohara unveil development stories, provide a live demo of creating new weapons, and reveal other exclusive content. Followed by a Q&A session. Room 25ABC
Categories: Action/Adventure | Games | Horror and Suspense

12:00-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #2: So You Think You Can Make Transmedia Entertainment?— Over the past few years, the American entertainment world has discovered the power of transmedia entertainment, with more and more stories getting integrated across film, television, games, the web, and of course, comics. Each new franchise -- from The Matrix to Heroes and Lost, from District 9 to Avatar -- has shown us something new about the ways transmedia franchises can be organized. In a talk addressing fans and media producers alike, Henry Jenkins (USC), author of Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide, offering a vocabulary for discussing how we can tell if it is done well or not. Room 26AB
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Games | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Webcomics

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Session: Paul Pope: Inking with Speed and Precision— Paul Pope became an art icon by building unforgettable characters and worlds with his fearlessly fluid and singular line art. Each of his pages appears to be tightly composed but rapidly executed. Bring your sketchbooks and learn the secrets of a fast, but precise approach to inking at this CBLDF Master Session. The original art from the session will be auctioned off on Saturday night in the CBLDF's Art Auction. Room 30CDE
Categories: Art and Illustration | CBLDF Events | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

12:00-1:00 Gamera, The Invincible!— Author August Ragone (Chronicle Books' Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Godzilla's No. 1 rival, the original Mutant Flying Turtle himself: Gamera! This program celebrates the first official DVD release of the original 1960s–1970s film series from Shout! Factory, with commentary on how Gamera was created and how the films were made, as well as rare, behind-the-scenes photographs and clips. Find out if Gamera is really full of turtle meat in the Q&A and win copies of Shout!'s latest release Gamera vs. Barugon -- all in one colossal presentation guaranteed to knock you right out of your shell! Room 32AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies

12:30-1:30 Bongo Comics Sneak Peek— Bongo Comics offers a mouth-watering preview of upcoming projects featuring The Simpsons and Futurama and a few other surprises. Managing editor Terry Delegeane and creative director Bill Morrison hosts a panel featuring the writers and artists who create the comics and books based on Matt Groening's phenomenal TV shows. Find out what's in the future for Futurama Comics and what to surmise about Simpsons Comics. And stay tuned for an announcement about the newest addition to the wonderful world of humor comics. This is a "must-attend" panel for all fans of The Simpsons and Futurama and anyone looking for a place to sit down! Room 3
Categories: Animation | Comics | Humor & Satire

12:30-1:30 Batman: The Widening Gyre— As Bat-fans know, Batman: The Widening Gyre revealed a previously untold period in Batman's life. DC group editor Michael Marts, series artist Walt Flanagan, and inker Art Thibert reveal secrets behind the highly anticipated conclusion. Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comics | Superheroes

12:30-1:30 Sci-Fi That Will Change Your Life— What makes sci-fi great, other than awesome explosions and hot aliens? Sometimes it makes you reimagine your place in the universe. Join io9.com staff and friends as they recommend sci-fi from the past year that will entertain you -- and then change your life. Panelists include io9 staff writers Annalee Newitz, Charlie Jane Anders, Meredith Woerner, and Cyriaque Lamar, plus io9 pals Marc Bernardin (The Authority, The Highwaymen), Bonnie Burton (StarWars.com), and Douglas Wolk (Reading Comics). Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Comics | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

12:30-1:30 Manga for Grown-Ups: Garo, Ax, Gekiga, and the Alternative Manga Revolution— Sean Michael Wilson (editor of Top Shelf's new Ax anthology) and friends present a visual and verbal tour of the past, present, and future of alternative comics from Japan. Featuring rare images, this talk spotlights such gekiga giants as Yoshihiro Tatsumi, Yoshiharu Tsuge, and Masahiko Matsumoto, as well as modern alt-manga from Ax creators such as Imiri Sakabashira, Kazuichi Hanawa, Akino Kondo, Yusaku Hanakuma, and Takashi Nemoto. Plus a special announcement about another exciting gekiga book to come! Room 8
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comics | Fandom

12:30-1:30 City of Heroes Going Rogue: Reinventing a Superheroic MMO— Find out how the world's most popular super-powered MMO is redefining the online gaming experience with City of Heroes Going Rogue. New content and features will allow players to enter a new world with true moral challenges. Fans have been reading stories about heroes dangling on the edge of evil or villains seeking redemption. Now they can live those adventures. Jesse "Ghost Falcon" Caceres (development producer), Melissa "War Witch" Bianco (lead game designer), Matt "Positron" Miller (lead systems designer), and David "Noble Savage" Nakayama (art lead) establish the innovations that will allow your hero or villain to experience the ultimate adventure. Room 24ABC
Categories: Games | Superheroes

12:45-1:45 Marvel: Breaking into Comics the Marvel Way— Welcome to the House of Ideas, where the doors have never been more open to new talent than today! Talent liaison C. B. Cebulski is joined by special guests Brian Michael Bendis, Matt Fraction, Skottie Young, Humberto Ramos, and more to talk about what it takes to make yours Marvel as a profession, from writer to artist to editor and more! Do you have what it takes? Come find out! Room 6DE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 Video Game Comics: The Next Big Thing— Are video games the biggest thing to hit comics since superheroes? Richard George from IGN explores this phenomenon, along with representatives from Dark Horse, EA, IDW, and WildStorm. Featuring some of the hottest video game properties in comics: Mass Effect, Dragon Age, Gears of War, Fallout: New Vegas, Army of Two, God of War and more, this is one panel fans of either medium won't want to miss! Room 5AB
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Charlaine Harris— Author and Comic-Con special guest Charlaine Harris gathered a huge fan base with her novels and stories featuring her characters mystery-solving librarian Aurora Teagarden; Shakespeare, Arkansas resident Lily Bard; and the telepathic barmaid who befriends vampires, werewolves, and various other odd creatures, Sookie Stackhouse. Once Sookie and company moved to the small screen with HBO's True Blood, Harris entered the superstar realm. Be a part of the very first Spotlight panel devoted to Charlaine and hear what she has to say about what comes next for Sookie and everyone else! Room 6BCF
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

1:00-2:00 Ape Entertainment— Learn about Ape Entertainment's current and upcoming Dreamworks Animation line featuring Shrek, Penguins of Madagascar, and Megamind, as well as other Kizoic all-ages brand titles, including Pocket God, based on the bestselling iPhone application. And don't miss out on the big announcements of properties coming to Ape Entertainment/Kizoic in 2011, and receive a free comic book simply for showing up at the panel. Room 9
Categories: Animation | Comics

1:00-3:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Steve Rude— Award-winning comics illustrator and Comic-Con special guest Steve Rude will paint a realistic portrait of a beautiful blonde heroine from his imagination. Learn valuable illustration techniques and how to draw the human figure. Recommended for all ages and experience levels. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

1:00-2:00 USA Network's Burn Notice— Bruce Campbell (Sam Axe), Matt Nix (creator and executive producer), and Alfredo Barrios, Jr. (executive producer) host a panel discussion and answer questions about the creative process of evolving an embryonic idea into a finished episode of cable's #1 show. Fans will gain an intimate look inside the world of Burn Notice, complete with war stories from the writer's room and filming on location in Miami. Exclusive video content will include tips on how to survive Comic-Con from your favorite burned spy, Michael Westen (played by Jeffrey Donovan), highlights from all four seasons and an exclusive sneak peek at upcoming episodes. Ballroom 20
Categories: Action/Adventure | Television

1:00-2:00 Hasbro GI Joe— The Hasbro design and marketing teams and representatives from Hasbro Studios -- including Derryl DePriest (Hasbro Marketing), John Warden (Hasbro Design), Aaron Archer (Hasbro Brand IP Development), Jeff Kline (executive producer, G.I. Joe Renegades), and Michael Vogel (Hasbro Studios) -- discuss new initiatives for Hasbro's G.I. Joe brand. Fans won't want to miss details from the showrunner and members of the creative team for the new G.I. Joe Renegades animated television series coming to The Hub network this fall! Also includes Q&A time. Room 25ABC
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Action/Adventure | Animation | Television

1:00-2:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #3: New Fun About Siegel and Shuster— Gerard Jones (Networked: Carabella on the Run) leads Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson Brown (grand-daughter of Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson), Brad Ricca (Last Son), and copyright expert Lauren Agostino in a discussion about the creative influences and legal issues surrounding Siegel and Shuster's early characters. Also, Mel Gordon (California State University East Bay) shares insights about Jewish superheroes from his new book Siegel and Shuster's Funnyman: The First Jewish Superhero, co-authored by Thomas Andrae. Room 26AB
Categories: Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

1:00-2:00 CBLDF Master Session: Rob Liefeld: Designing Iconic Characters— Learn what it takes to design a character that's lasting, iconic, and cool. Using his legendary creations Deadpool, Cable, and Youngblood as examples, Rob Liefeld shows you the values that go into creating a character who can leap from the comics page and into games, film, television, and merchandise. The original art from this session will be auctioned off on Saturday night at the CBLDF's Art Auction! Room 30CDE
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | CBLDF Events | Comics | Movies | Television

1:00-2:00 Digital Bits: Blu-ray Producers 2010— Bill Hunt, Adam Jahnke, and Todd Doogan (of TheDigitalBits.com) drill down on the latest DVD and Blu-ray developments with some of the leading special-edition producers in Hollywood! Panelists include Cliff Stephenson (Rambo: Director's Cut, Expendables), Charles de Lauzirika (Robin Hood, Alien Anthology), Javier Soto (Predators, Mimic, The Devil's Backbone), and Brian Ward (Transformers, G.I. Joe, Max Headroom). Don't miss out on all the insider scoops, audience Q&A, and sneak peeks at great upcoming discs! Room 32AB
Categories: Action/Adventure | Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:00-2:00 Sony Pictures Entertainment: Battle: Los Angeles and Salt— Two great new films from Sony Pictures Entertainment are showcased in this Hall H presentation!
Battle: Los Angeles—When unknown forces suddenly and mercilessly attack the City of Angels out of nowhere, it's up to a local Marine staff sergeant (Aaron Eckhart) and a new platoon of unseasoned soldiers to meet the threat. As the invasion hits the streets of LA, these Marines become our first and last line of defense in an intense battle against an enemy unlike any they've ever encountered before. Appearing in person are Michelle Rodriguez, Aaron Eckhart, Neal Moritz, and director Jonathan Liebesman.

Salt -- Opening in theaters everywhere tomorrow, Columbia Pictures brings an exclusive and surprising look at Salt to Comic-Con today, featuring some very special guests. As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honor and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture, but her efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: "Who is Salt?"
Hall H
Categories: Action/Adventure | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

1:15-2:15 World Premiere of the First Game From 38 Studios— Be among the first in the world to see the video game debut from Curt Schilling's 38 Studios. Hear from the visionaries who have teamed up to create this highly anticipated RPG and the rich world it is set in, including 38 Studios' executive art director Todd McFarlane (Spawn, Spider-Man), executive creator of worlds R. A. Salvatore (Forgotten Realms), lead designer Ken Rolston (Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion), and founder and chairman Curt Schilling. Learn all about this ambitious new project as 38 Studios unveils the name of the game along with the world premiere of the game's first trailer directed by McFarlane. Attendees will also receive a limited-edition poster. Room 6A
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Games

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Dusty Higgins and Van Jensen— Pinocchio the Vampire Slayer creators and Comic-Con special guests Dusty Higgins and Van Jensen are spotlighted in a panel moderated by Heidi MacDonald. The pair talk about the origins of their project, their reactions to the positive feedback -- which included having their debut graphic novel from SLG Publishing named as one of the top 10 best graphic novels for teens by the Young Adult Library Service -- and show art from the upcoming sequel. Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Beanworld and the Leguminous Life of Larry Marder!— What is Beanworld? Where does it come from? How did it all begin? Comic-Con special guest Larry Marder and moderator Scott McCloud (Understanding Comics) celebrate the 25th anniversary of Marder's most peculiar comic book experience with a visual presentation and a lively dialogue about his many influences. This is your opportunity to discover why Beanworld has captivated readers from grade school to grad school over several generations. Be the first to get a glimpse into Marder's next Dark Horse Books original Beanworld graphic novel, Something More! Room 4
Categories: Anniversaries | Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

1:30-2:30 Comic Book Sunday!— Comic book, film, and video game industry professionals Jhonen Vasquez (Invader Zim), Marv Wolfman (Blade), James Waugh (Blizzard Entertainment), Aaron Mason (Panzer 88), Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), Chris Prynoski (Titmouse Animation), Jim Kruger (Avengers), Oscar A. Torres (Breakthrough Films), and Benjamin Jackendoff (Carr Miller Entertainment) discuss how the Comic Book Sunday! group emerged and how they are actively changing the way the entertainment industry works. Panel topics include how to build an idea to create a universe or franchise; the importance of being well versed in genre, video games, comics, etc.; and how groups like Comic Book Sunday! empower creators and have birthed new projects. The panel will also announce future plans for the group and brand, as well as new film and comic book projects. If you have a passion for cutting-edge comic books, films, and games, please join us for this panel and Q&A session! Room 7AB
Categories: Animation | Comics | Games | Movies

1:30-2:30 Bill Plympton's Hair High and Adventures in Plymptoons— Meet "King of the Indie Animators" Bill Plympton (Idiots & Angels) and celebrate the release of his classic hand-drawn animated feature Hair High on DVD. This award-winning film features the voice talents of Sarah Silverman, Dermot Mulroney, David Carradine, Martha Plimpton, and Justin Long in an outrageous romantic zombie comedy that tells the story of a teenage couple murdered on prom night, who return for revenge. This is one "rom-zom-prom-com" you don't want to miss! Also, see clips from Adventures in Plymptoons, a documentary being made about the life and works of this Oscar-nominated animator, featuring interviews with Tom Kenny, Matthew Modine, Michael Showalter, and many more! Filmmakers Alexia Anastasio (Salome) and Kevin Sean Michaels (Vampira: The Movie) will be on hand to discuss the film. Everyone who attends will receive a free Bill Plympton drawing! Room 8
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Humor & Satire | Movies

1:30-2:30 Once Upon a Time— Fantasy authors discuss whether Epic Fantasy requires bigger-than-life heroes and heroines. Authors include Lynn Flewelling (The White Road), Christopher Paolini (the Inheritance cycle), Patrick Rothfuss (The Name of the Wind), Brandon Sanderson (The Way of Kings, Book 1 of The Stormlight Archive), Megan Whalen Turner (the Queen's Thief series), and Brent Weeks (the Night Angel Trilogy). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 24ABC
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Walt Disney Animation Studios: Character Creation!— Throughout the years, Walt Disney Animation Studios has brought us some of the most memorable, unique, and appealing onscreen characters. Disney Animation's upcoming release Tangled introduces a fresh and irresistible new bunch. Nathan Greno and Byron Howard (directors), Glen Keane (animation supervisor), and other artists from Tangled discuss the creation of their unforgettable characters. Room 5AB
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Movies | Seminars & Workshops

2:00-3:00 DC Focus: Geoff Johns— Geoff Johns's storytelling and creativity fueled event blockblusters Blackest Night and the new Brightest Day and the character rebirths of Green Lantern and The Flash. As the new chief creative officer of DC Entertainment, Geoff can be expected to deliver even more thrills and excitement as his focus shifts to bringing the DCU to life outside of the comics, starting with the Green Lantern film and many other surprises! Don't miss this panel hosted by Eddie Berganza, group editor, interviewing one of the most exciting talents in comics. Room 6DE
Categories: Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Tom Palmer— Comic-Con special guest and legendary comics inker and artist Tom Palmer will be joined by Dean White, color artist on the Kick-Ass comics series, and possibly another member of the creative team for a Q&A session and discussion of the new Kick-Ass series about to be published. Moderated by Mark Waid. Room 9
Categories: Action/Adventure | Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

2:00-3:00 Hasbro Transformers— Aaron Archer (Hasbro Brand IP Development), Matt Proulx (Hasbro Marketing), and Hasbro Design's Michelino Paolino, Brian Wilk, Eric Siebenaler, Alan Roach, and Miyaki Tomoya are joined by Activision's Matt Tieger to talk about what's new with Transformers. The design and marketing teams will present all the latest toys from the new line as well as details about the Transformers: War for Cybertron video game from Activision. Also includes Q&A time. Room 25ABC
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Games | Movies | Television

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

2:00-3:00 Radical Publishing Panel— Hosted by Ain't It Cool News's very own Harry Knowles, Radical Publishing presents an all-star panel lineup with plenty of surprises, special announcements, and a free raffle ticket for everyone who attends. Panel guests include Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), co-creator and co-writer of Time Bomb; Rick Remender (Punisher), creator and writer for The Last Days of American Crime, soon to be a major motion picture produced by and starring Avatar's Sam Worthington; Peter Milligan (Hellblazer), writer for After Dark, co-created by director Antoine Fuqua and Wesley Snipes; Arvid Nelson (Rex Mundi), writer for the upcoming Oblivion from TRON: Legacy director Joseph Kosinski; Nick Percival (Judge Dredd), creator and artist for Legends: The Enchanted, soon to be a major motion picture from Ron Howard's Imagine Entertainment; David Hine (Spider-Man Noir), writer of Ryder on the Storm and FVZA; Matt Cirulnick (True Crime: New York City), creator and co-writer for Earp: Saints for Sinners; and Keith Arem (Call of Duty series), one of the gaming industry's leading director/producers as well as co-creator for the upcoming Exile. Room 32AB
Categories: Comics | Games | Movies | Writers & Writing

2:15-3:15 World of Warcraft: Epic Loot— Get your game on outside of Azeroth! A panel of Blizzard Entertainment creative decision makers and licensed partners are on hand for a discussion and unveiling of World of Warcraft-inspired products. In attendance: Chris Metzen, Blizzard Entertainment SVP of creative development; Micky Neilson, Blizzard Entertainment publishing lead; Hank Kanalz, VP/GM of WildStorm and World of Warcraft comic editor; Julian Rignall, Future Plus editorial director of World of Warcraft Official Magazine; Jim Fletcher, DC Direct design director; and Cory Jones, Cryptozoic Entertainment president and chief creative officer. Moderated by Kat Hunter, Blizzard Entertainment licensing project manager and host of BlizzCon coverage on DIRECTV. Room 6BCF
Categories: Comics | Games

2:15-3:15 USA Network's White Collar— Moderated by White Collar's very own conspiracy theorist, Willie Garson (Mozzie), the audience will have a chance to interact with creator Jeff Eastin, stars Matt Bomer (Neal Caffrey), Tim DeKay (FBI Agent Peter Burke), Marsha Thomason (Agent Diana Barrigan), Sharif Atkins (Agent Clinton Jones), and co-EP Jeff King. Fans will get an insider's look into the challenges of writing in Los Angeles while shooting on the streets of New York. In addition to having questions answered about the exciting upcoming season, fans will also view exclusive video content featuring a sneak peek at new episodes in season 2, as well as a video of Neal explaining the ins and outs of how to pull off the perfect con. Ballroom 20
Categories: Action/Adventure | Television

2:15-3:15 Summit Entertainment: RED— Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage from RED. They used to be the CIA's top agents -- but the secrets they know just made them the Agency's top targets. Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren star in RED, an explosive action-comedy based on the cult DC Comics graphic novel by Warren Ellis. Join him, director Robert Schwentke, and the film's stars as they share footage from the film and debut the final trailer before it's ever in theaters. Hall H
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Humor & Satire | Writers & Writing

2:30-3:30 The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide Turns 40— Celebrate the history and impact of the Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide with former CGC president and primary grader Steve Borock, CBG's Maggie Thompson, historian Jon McClure, Guide staffers J.C. Vaughn and Mark Huesman, and special guests. Guide creator Robert M. Overstreet is a Comic-Con special guest in celebration of the 40th anniversary. Room 3
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Anniversaries | Comics

2:30-3:30 State of the Geek Report: From Avatar to Zardoz— A panel of experts examine the state of science fiction, fantasy, and horror in film and TV, from the living-ever-longer-and-prospering Star Trek franchise to the future of Star Wars to what the success of Avatar means for the future of movies. Some of geekdom's biggest luminaries, including Steve Melching (The Clone Wars), Ashley E. Miller (Thor, X-Men: First Class), Steve Kriozere (Elvis Van Helsing), Jeff Bond (former Geek Monthly editor), and Bill Hunt and Todd Doogan (Digital Bits), talk about the lackluster state of sci-fi film and television, the rise, fall and rise of Star Trek, and the hits and misses of 2010 that made their midicholorian (and cholesterol) counts rise to dangerous levels this summer. Room 4
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

2:30-3:30 A Decade of Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Squidbillies and More: The Animated Insanity of Radical Axis Studios— The team from Radical Axis -- animators, artists, and amateur magicians -- celebrate the studio's 10th Anniversary with a look back at its body of work that includes Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Squidbillies, and other cartoon insanity. Scott Fry (CEO), Craig Hartin (VP of production), and Todd Redner (animation director) are joined by friend/collaborator Matt Maiellaro (co-creator, Aqua Teen Hunger Force) for a no-holds-barred Q&A with USA Today's Whitney Matheson. Room 6A
Categories: Animation | Anniversaries | Humor & Satire | Television

2:30-3:30 BrickJournal: Looking at the LEGO Community— In the past decade, a community of adult LEGO builders has sprung up and created models, websites, and even conventions. The staff of BrickJournal, the magazine for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages, invites you to take a look at the community (and what it builds) at this presentation, with Brandon Griffith (top LEGO builder), Jonathan Bender (author of LEGO: A Love Story), Nathan Sawaya (LEGO certified professional builder), and Jim Foulds (community operations manager for the LEGO Group). The panel is moderated by BrickJournal editor Joe Meno. There will be a Q&A afterward, so if you have any questions about the community, events, builders, or even the LEGO company, this is the place to be! Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Fandom

2:30-3:30 The Sergio & Mark Show— They're back and they're bringing their friends! Comic-Con special guests Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier talk about all things Groo -- plus whatever else is going on -- with co-conspirators Tom Luth and Stan Sakai. Room 8
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Humor & Satire

2:30-3:30 I Can't Write, I Can't Draw, But I Love Comics!— There are tons of jobs in the comics, animation, and gaming industries besides writing and illustration. Companies still need computer programmers, motion-capture actors, retailers, agents, development executives, and publishers. Learn how to get your foot in the door without spilling any ink. Panelists include Rudy Coby (Labman), Jacob Melvin (DreamWorks), Joseph Gatt (God of War), Derek Douglas (Digital Development Management), Steve Goldstein (Stubbs Alderton & Markiles), Matt Cohen (Killspace Entertainment), Jud Meyers (Earth 2 Comics), and Filip Sablik (Top Cow Productions). Moderated by science/tech journalist Susan Karlin (Discover). Room 24ABC
Categories: Animation | Comics | Games | Seminars & Workshops

2:30-3:30 Comics Arts Conference Session #4: Recapturing Copyright for Gold and Silver Age Comic Book Creators— Copyright lawyer Marc Greenberg (Golden Gate University School of Law) covers key developments in the Superman case (Siegel v. DC) and explores the claims filed by the Jack Kirby estate to the rights to the major Marvel Comics characters he created or co-created. Room 26AB
Categories: Comics | Comics Arts Conference | Comics Law School | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Jenette Kahn— For 27 years Comic-Con special guest Jenette Kahn steered the course for DC Comics as its president and publisher, the youngest female executive in Warner Brothers history. Her time at DC resulted in a renaissance of publishing for fans and creators alike. Former DC president and publisher -- and fellow Comic-Con special guest -- Paul Levitz interviews Jenette about her years at the company and her new career in the movie industry as a producer of such hits as Gran Torino. Room 5AB
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Movies

3:00-4:00 Dark Horse Horror— The publisher that brings you the best stories in horror comics also delivers Comic-Con's best panel on horror comics! Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, writer of the weird Steve Niles (Criminal Macabre, City of Others), and The Goon creator Eric Powell join Dark Horse editors Scott Allie and Shawna Gore for this behind-the-screams discussion. Plus, get a blood-curdling first look at the horror books Dark Horse will unleash in the coming year. Room 9
Categories: Comics | Horror and Suspense

3:00-4:30 Comic-Con How-To Session: Felipe Echevarria— Calling all artists! This session will open your eyes to a foolproof method for mixing color based on what actually happens when paint is mixed, rather than using elusive color theories and formulas. It's easy to learn and takes all the guesswork out of color mixing. This is the breakthrough Michael Wilcox Bias Color Wheelsystem. Felipe Echevarria is a registered teacher for the Michael Wilcox School Of Color, and is an accomplished comics/graphic novelist and fine artist. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

3:00-4:00 Kiss Them or Kill Them? Conflict Management for the Creatures Among Us— Urban fantasy and paranormal romance authors discuss when to kill the monster, date the monster...or both and in what order. Authors include J. F. Lewis (ReVamped), Maria Lima (Blood Line series), Adrian Phoenix (the Maker's Song series), Kat Richardson (the Greywalker novels), Diana Rowland (Kara Gillian—Detective and Demon Summoner series), Samantha Sommersby (the Forbidden Series), Anton Strout (the Simon Canderous urban fantasy series), Linda Thomas-Sundstrom (Wolf Moons series), and Rob Thurman (author of the Cal Leandros Novels and The Trickster Novels). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 25ABC
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

3:00-4:00 Masters of the Web— Hollywood writer/producer Roberto Orci (Cowboys & Aliens, Transformers, Star Trek) and AMC Theatres blog editor John Campea (AMCTheatres.com/ network/ scriptscreen), moderate a panel of the most popular movie website personalities as they come together to discuss how new media has influenced moviemaking and marketing, what it takes to run a popular site, and much more in a panel discussion and Q&A session. The panel consists of Jen Yamato (former senior editor of Rotten Tomatoes, now writing for Cinematical, Hitfix, Film.Com and FEARnet), Edward Douglas (Coming Soon.net), Vic Holtreman (Screenrant.com), Mike Sampson (Joblo.com), George "El Guapo" Roush (Latino Review.com). Erik Davis (Cinematical.com), and Devin Faraci (CHUD.com). Passes to the annual, highly anticipated "From Dusk til Con" party will be given out to a few lucky attendees, and one attendee will win a pass good for one year of free movies at any AMC Theatres location. Room 32AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies

3:15-4:15 Marvel: Mondo Marvel— It's the panel about all things Marvel! We've got top talent on hand to talk about all of your favorite heroes and villains as well as make a few surprise announcements! Panelists include Jeph Loeb (Hulk), Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers), Marvel's talent liaison C. B. Cebulski, Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning (The Thanos Imperative), Jim McCann (Hawkeye & Mockingbird), senior editor Mark Paniccia, and more as they take on all questions! Room 6DE
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Keith Knight— Keith Knight's reputation as a rabble-rousing hellion is in serious jeopardy with his first stint as a special guest at Comic-Con. The Harvey award–winning cartoonist and MAD magazine contributor will spill con secrets, show strips, and give out free stuff in celebration of his first collection of daily comic strips: The Knight Life: Chivalry Ain't Dead. Calvin Reid of Publisher's Weekly moderates. Room 3
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

3:30-4:30 The Pitching Hour— Jermaine Turner (director, Disney/ABC Cable Networks Group), Derek Hoffman (Donner Company, X-men), Carina Schulze (Chatrone), Paula Gould (PEG PR), and moderator Dan Evans (Nickelodeon exec, Robot & Monster) take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining agents, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical example and humorous stories, the process that creators should adopt to make their way into the Hollywood creative battleground. Knowing that each project is unique, there will be a Q&A to allow the audience to really hone in on the solutions to obstacles they may encounter. Also on hand will be Warren Zeger (entertainment lawyer) to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood! Room 4
Categories: Animation | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II Exclusive Live demo— LucasArts's executive producer Haden Blackman presents a thrilling look at the sequel to the fastest-selling Star Wars game of all time. Blackman will share the latest scoop on Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II and show attendees how to use the Force at a devastating level never seen before. Room 6BCF
Categories: Games | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

3:30-4:30 Assassin's Creed: Behind and Beyond the Brotherhood— Key members of the development team from Ubisoft Montreal discuss the next iteration of the critically acclaimed, multi-million-unit-selling franchise Assassin's Creed Brotherhood. Learn about the new Multiplayer mode, a first for Assassin's Creed, and get a preview of new multiplayer characters as they are revealed exclusively at this panel! Go behind the scenes with an in-depth look at the story and art of the Brotherhood and the return of Ezio, now a legendary Master Assassin, as he journeys into Italy's greatest city, Rome, to strike at the heart of the enemy. The session will also go beyond the Brotherhood to discuss the Assassin's Creed universe as a multimedia entertainment experience. Room 7AB
Categories: Action/Adventure | Games

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Howard Cruse— Comic-Con special guest Howard Cruse, author of the newly reissued Stuck Rubber Baby, the creator of Barefootz and Wendel, and the founding editor of Gay Comix, is interviewed by author Blake Bell, who profiled Howard's husband Ed Sedarbaum for Bell's 2002 book I Have to Live with This Guy! Questions from audience members will be welcome. Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 USA Network's Psych— They're back! Always an unpredictable and hilarious event with the creative team behind the most-watched comedy series on cable TV! Enjoy some face-time with series stars James Roday (Shawn Spencer), Dulé Hill (Burton "Gus" Guster), Maggie Lawson (Juliet O'Hara), Tim Omundson (Carlton Lassiter), Kirsten Nelson (Chief Karen Vick), and Corbin Bernsen (Henry Spencer). Joining the cast will be Steve Franks (creator and executive producer), Kelly Kulchak (executive producer), and Chris Henze (executive producer), moderated by Psych's resident funnyman Andy Berman (co-executive producer, ex-actor, and longtime writer). The team will provide an all-access pass to USA's hit series, which launches its 5th season this summer. The stars and producers will share Season 5 secrets and stories from the set and answer questions about the show's development and production process. Expect special video presentations created exclusively for Comic-Con, never-before-seen outtakes, and a Season 5 exclusive preview. Two lucky audience members will find fame and fortune again this year when they win the honor of having a guest character named after them in a Season 5 episode! There will be exclusive surprise giveaways, including limited-run Comic-Con T-shirts designed by the creative team behind Psych! Ballroom 20
Categories: Humor & Satire | Television

3:30-4:30 Zenescope Presents: Charmed Comics— The Charmed Ones are back, and the creative minds bringing them from television screen to comic book pages are here to share their magic. Writers Paul Ruditis (Charmed novelist) and Raven Gregory (Zenescope's Wonderland, The Waking) discuss how they have taken on the task of translating the ultra-popular TV show into a comic book series. Paul and Raven will answer your questions, raffle off some prizes. and maybe reveal a surprise or two. Room 24ABC
Categories: Comics | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on James Sturm— Comic-Con special guest James Sturm has created award-winning graphic novels for early readers (Adventures in Cartooning), young adults (Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow, Fantastic Four: Unstable Molecules), and grownups (The Golem's Mighty Swing, Market Day) and co-founded the country's finest cartooning school (The Center for Cartoon Studies). Sturm will be speaking about his process and art with Tom Spurgeon of The Comics Reporter (comicsreporter.com). Room 26AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Andrew Pepoy's Professional Networking Seminar— Get set for a weekend of pressing the flesh and selling yourself with this popular Comic-Con seminar! Being talented isn't enough; getting work and continuing to work in the comic book and comic strip publishing worlds often means knowing the right people as well! Eisner-winning and Hugo-nominated inker and writer/artist Andrew Pepoy (Fables, The Simpsons, Simone & Ajax), with over 20 years in the business, brings back his popular seminar to help teach you how to get out there and use Comic-Con to its fullest networking potential. Take advantage of this first-day slot to put some of Andrew's good advice to work over the remaining Comic-Con days! Room 30CDE
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

3:30-4:30 Entertainment Weekly: The Visionaries— A discussion with geek gods J. J. Abrams (Star Trek) and Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) on the future of pop culture. EW presents an in-depth conversation with these two creative geniuses about how technology, gaming, and global culture are reshaping how we tell and consume stories on television, film and the web. Plus: Is the superhero movie waning, or is it on the cusp of reinvention? And what do they think the pop culture universe will look like a decade from now? Moderated by Jeff "Doc" Jensen. Hall H
Categories: Comics | Games | Movies | Television | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 Robert Kirkman— He examines survival among The Walking Dead. He makes superheroes relatable in Invincible. He made lycanthropy dramatic in The Astounding Wolf-Man. Join Image Comics for an in-depth discussion and Q&A with writing juggernaut Robert Kirkman. Moderated by Sina Grace. Room 5AB
Categories: Comics | Horror and Suspense | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 From Screen to Comics— An in-depth look at what it takes to turn big-screen action into 32 pages. Talented creators from across the spectrum, including Max Brooks, Nancy Collins, Peter David, Tony Lee, and more, look behind the scenes at some of the biggest properties to come to comics, such as True Blood, Doctor Who, The A-Team, Transformers, and Star Trek. Room 9
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 Twisting Genres— Fantastic fiction authors talk about pushing the envelope on genre, not confining it to one definition. Participants include China Miéville (Kraken), Justin Cronin (The Passage), Naomi Novik (Tongues of Serpents), Daryl Gregory (The Devil's Alphabet), Jeffrey J. Mariotte (Cold Black Hearts), Robert Masello (Blood And Ice), Keith Thompson (The Leviathan trilogy), and Scott Westerfeld (The Leviathan trilogy). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 25ABC
Categories: Science Fiction & Fantasy | Writers & Writing

4:00-5:00 Masquerade 101— This overview of fan convention costume competitions includes various genres of costumes, glimpses behind the scenes, a brief history of masquerades, how contests differ from one type of convention to another, an explanation of judging processes, and fabrication and stage presentation tips for taking your costume creation from beginning concept to stage-ready spectacle. Presented by Comic-Con Masquerade director for the past 19 years Martin Jaquish and award-winning convention costumers Allan Lavigne and Jeff Dullum. Room 32AB
Categories: Awards Ceremonies | Costuming | Fandom

4:30-5:30 The Best and Worst of Manga 2010— It's been a wild year for manga, with new publishers springing up while old ones fade away, and sometimes it seems like the one constant in life is that One Piece will go on forever. Join our five panelists—Deb Aoki (manga.about.com), Jason Thompson (Manga: The Complete Guide), Christopher Butcher (comics.212.net), Tom Spurgeon (comicsreporter.com), and Kai-Ming Cha (Publishers Weekly) -- as they talk about the best and worst manga of the last year, the manga they want to see translated, and the most anticipated upcoming releases. Room 3
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comics

4:30-5:30 Digital Comics Now!— Digital comics are happening right now. A panel of the best and brightest in the new wave of digital comics engage in a wide-ranging discussion of everything from comics on the iPad and iPhone to digital comics on the web and day-and-date-releases. This is your one-stop panel for all the latest digital comics news! Panelists include David Steinberger (CEO of comiXology), Micah Baldwin (CEO of Graphic.ly), Michael Murphey (CEO of iVerse), and Wade Slitkin (CEO of Panelfly). Moderated by Chip Mosher (marketing director, BOOM! Studios). Room 4
Categories: Comics | Webcomics

4:30-5:30 DC Comics' 75th Anniversary— 75 years ago Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson started a comic book company (National Allied Publications) that pioneered the use of new material (as opposed to comic strip reprints) in its books. In 1938, Action Comics #1, featuring Superman, came along, and the rest—as they say—is history. And what a history it is! DC Comics celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Moderator Paul Levitz (writer, editor, and former president and publisher of DC) starts the Comic-Con celebration with panelists Dan DiDio and Jim Lee (co-publishers, DC Comics), Geoff Johns (chief creative officer), and Comic-Con special guests Jenette Kahn (former president and publisher), Dennis O'Neil (writer/editor, Batman), and comics legend Jerry Robinson (Batman). Room 6DE
Categories: Anniversaries | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

4:30-5:30 Transformers Prime— The talent behind Transformers Prime -- executive producers Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman, and Jeff Kline -- the new animated series from Hasbro Studios, showcase exclusive footage and character reveals followed by a Q&A session. This original series will premiere in 2010 on the new television network The Hub. Room 7AB
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Animation | Television

4:30-5:30 Spotlight on Phil Jimenez— Comic-Con special guest Phil Jimenez (Astonishing X-Men) wants to talk to you about comics. Join him for some one-on-one time, ask him questions, and then bring your own rolodex of answers as he tries to get to the heart of some questions he's been thinking about a lot lately: "What do comic readers love about comics, and more importantly, why? What do they hate about reading them? And what would they change?" Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Writers & Writing

4:30-6:00 Comic-Con How-To Session: Zander Cannon— Learn the process of creating independent comics from Zander Cannon, who has been working in comics since 1993 and has done both writing and art duties on comics about knights, robots, spacemen, cops, superheroes, ghosts, and mythical creatures. Room 18
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

4:30-5:30 Behind the Music: Composing for Sci-Fi, Horror, and Fantasy Film & TV— Award-winning composers Michael Giacchino (Lost), Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman (Heroes), Nathan Barr (True Blood), Jim Dooley (Pushing Daisies), John Ottman (Superman Returns), and Jeremy Zuckerman (Avatar: The Last Airbender) have all composed for Comic-Con's fan-favorite series and are here to share a behind-the-scenes perspective on creating music for television and film. Together they will discuss their respective projects and how they got their big break into the music composing industry. Q&A following the panel plus exclusive giveaways for attendees. Moderated by BMI executive Anne Cecere, director of film/television relations. Room 24ABC
Categories: Fandom | Horror and Suspense | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

4:30-5:30 Graphic Novels 101— Graphic novels are now considered mainstream, so why aren't they already on your library branch's shelves? Jill Patterson (La Habra, CA Branch Library), Merideth Jenson-Benjamin (Glendale, AZ Public Library), Kearsten LaBrozzi (Glendale, AZ Public Library), and Hillary W. Chang (McCully-Moiliili, HI Public Library) discuss ways to create and maintain a library Graphic Novel Collection. Room 26AB
Categories: Comics | Seminars & Workshops

4:30-5:30 Writing Workshop with James Hudnall— Comics writer James D. Hudnall (Espers, The Psycho) explains the fundamentals of writing effective fiction and characters. James details the core principals you will need in order to write strong, meaningful stories, including how to make your ideas work to their best effect, how to make a character believable, and how to make the reader care. Find out some of the most important things a writer can learn in just one hour's time. Room 30CDE
Categories: Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

4:45-5:45 Capcom 2010 and Beyond!— See the latest trailers and get the inside scoop on all of Capcom's most highly anticipated games for 2010 and beyond: Marvel Vs. Capcom 3, Sengoku Basara, Okamiden, Bionic Commando Rearmed 2, Ghost Trick, Dead Rising 2, and more. On top of all that, hear details on an exciting new game announcement by Capcom legend Keiji Inafune, the father of Mega Man! Room 6BCF
Categories: Action/Adventure | Games | Horror and Suspense | Superheroes

4:45-5:45 Our Heroes Have More Fun: the Anti-Heroes of Showtime— The 21st century anti-hero has become one of the driving forces in recent pop culture. When it comes to the television anti-hero, Showtime has the winning formula. Hear firsthand from the showrunners, creators, and actors who have helped define this phenomenon. Dexter's Michael C. Hall and showrunner Chip Johannessen (24) delve into the phenomenon of Dexter Morgan, the serial killer you can't help rooting for; David Duchovny and Tom Kapinos of Californication discuss why Hank Moody is the "bad boy" we love despite his obvious shortcomings; and Mary-Louise Parker and Jenji Kohanof Weeds interpret pot-dealing soccer mom Nancy Botwin's moral decisions, as the line between right and wrong is not always as simple as black or white. Plus: Nurse Jackie—despite a little pill-popping along the way—is a smart no-nonsense nurse, who if you're ever taken to the hospital, you had better hope she's the first person you see. With heroes like these, who needs villains? Breaking the occasional promise, law, or commandment is all in a day's work, and one thing's for sure - Showtime heroes never let doing the right thing get in the way of having a good time. Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Television

4:45-5:45 Lionsgate: The Expendables— Prepare to have your ass kicked by The Expendables, the biggest action movie this summer! Lionsgate presents exclusive scenes and the inside scoop on every punch, kick, and bloodied lip from the most iconic cast of heroes and villains ever assembled, including the director, writer, and star Sylvester Stallone (Rambo), along with Dolph Lundgren (Universal Soldier), Steve Austin (The Condemned), Randy Couture (Scorpion King: Rise of the Warrior), and Terry Crews (Gamer). Hall H
Categories: Action/Adventure | Movies

5:00-6:00 SFX presents The British Invasion— Five top UK writers from the worlds of TV, comics, books, and movies discuss what makes modern British SF unique. Dan Abnett (Ultramarines), China Miéville (Perdido Street Station), Paul Cornell (Doctor Who), Kieron Gillen (Thor), Pat Mills (2000 AD), and Toby Whithouse (BBC's Being Human creator) talk to SFX magazine's Dave Bradley in this panel and Q&A session. Room 5AB
Categories: Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 Look Around You— As their BAFTA-nominated show comes to BBC DVD, creators/stars Robert Popper (Peep Show, Hot Fuzz) and Peter Serafinowicz (Couples Retreat, Shaun of the Dead) are on stage to take questions from the fans on the nonsensical wonders of science and the series of gloriously deadpan experiments as presented by Jack Morgan (Popper) and Peter Packard (Serafinowicz). Matt Groening calls it "one of the funniest shows I've ever seen." Room 6A
Categories: Humor & Satire | Television | Writers & Writing

5:00-6:00 ComicBase User Group Meeting— See a presentation of the newest features in ComicBase 15 with ComicBase creator Peter Bickford. This is the perfect place to get all the answers you need about the world's premiere software for managing your comic book collection. Room 9
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics | Seminars & Workshops

5:00-6:00 Adult Swim: Childrens Hospital— Check out the Childrens Hospital panel and hear from the show's creative team led by Rob Corddry (Hot Tub Time Machine, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart) and Jon Stern (producer of The Ten and Scotland, PA). They will be joined by members of their ensemble cast of comedic heavyweights, including Lake Bell (How to Make It in America, It's Complicated), Erinn Hayes (Parenthood, Worst Week), and Rob Huebel (I Love You Man, Human Giant). Childrens Hospital explores the emotional struggles and sexual politics of a group of doctors charged with healthy libidos. Their dedication to their personal lives is relentless, interrupted only by the occasional need to treat sick children. Room 25ABC
Categories: Humor & Satire | Television

5:00-6:00 The 5th Annual Comics Podcasting Panel!— Five years ago, the comics podcasting stars came together on one panel for the first time in San Diego, and now they're back to discuss comics, podcasting, and how the comic book industry has changed since that first panel. Podcasters appearing on the panel include John Siuntres (Word Balloon), Josh Flanagan (iFanboy), Jimmy Aquino (Comic News Insider), Brian "Pants" Christman (Comic Geek Speak), Bob Bretall (The Comic Book Page), and Cameron Hatheway (Cammy's Comic Corner). Don't miss your chance to see all your favorite podcasters on one panel! Room 32AB
Categories: Comics | Fandom

5:30-6:30 Manga: Lost in Translation— The manga market has taken a big slump, and when money is tight, the freelancers are the first to feel the pinch. Long-time professional freelance translators, editors, and specialists in manga, anime, and related fields gather to answer questions about the work, life as a pro, and how they're managing in the translated-entertainment industry. Panelists William Flanagan (Kobato), Jonathan Tarbox (Fist of the North Star), Jason Thompson (King of RPGs), Shaenon Garrity (Skin Horse), Stephen Paul (Moyasimon), Mark Simmons (Mobile Suit Gundam Series) and Jake Forbes (Return to Labyrinth) will offer industry stories and Q&A. Room 3
Categories: Anime & Manga | Comics

5:30-6:30 Indie Comics Marketing 101— Need tips on how to market your comic? This is the panel for you! Some of the best and brightest in comics today present a roundtable discussion, revealing all the secrets of success in marketing your comics. Panelists include Sam Humphries (writer, Fraggle Rock and CBGB, creator of MySpace Comic Books), Laura Hudson (editor-in-chief, Comics Alliance), Ben McCool (writer, Choker, Superman, Memoir, JLU), and Chip Mosher (marketing director, BOOM! Studios). Room 4
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

5:30-6:30 Spotlight on Ivan Reis— Comic-Con special guest Ivan Reis (Blackest Night, Green Lantern, Brightest Day) has established a name and a reputation as one of the most popular and prolific superhero artists in modern day comics. Join him and his friends Eddie Berganza (DC senior editor) and Joe Prado (artist on Brightest Day) as they talk about Ivan's career and how he made it to the top. Room 7AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

5:30-6:30 Geek Girls Exist— Really? Kristin Rielly (Geek Girls Network) leads a discussion about growing up geek, turning passions into careers, and who shot first. Representing the many awesome aspects of the geek culture, panelists Morgan Romine (The Frag Dolls), Bonnie Burton (The Star Wars Craft Book), Marian Call (singer/songwriter), Sarah Kuhn (One Con Glory), Jill Pantozzi (Has Boobs Reads Comics blog), Veronica Belmont (Qore), Kari Byron (MythBusters), and Kiala Kazebee (GeekWeek.com) school you on what it means to be a real geeky girl and even make you LOL IRL. Room 8
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga | Comics | Fandom | Movies | Television

5:30-6:30 Comics Academy and the Death of Captain America— Jeffrey Kahan (University of La Verne; author, Caped Crusaders 101) provide an example lesson plan and display how to use comic books in the classroom. David Rojas (founder of Comics Academy) lectures on "The Death of Captain America" and how to relate this story in the classroom and what it means for the future of comic book publishing. The Comics Academy seeks to foster an appreciation of comic books and graphic novels in academia; it promotes using comic books to spark investigation into academic subject areas and to teach abstract concepts in K-12 education. Room 24ABC
Categories: Comics | Seminars & Workshops | Superheroes

5:30-6:30 Acme Archives Ltd— This presentation focuses on the creative process used in producing limited-edition entertainment-based art and features a live performance from renowned Star Wars artist Christian Waggoner. He will be painting on stage while a panel of Acme representatives and Acme artists discuss limited-edition art and its creation. The entire procedure will be outlined, including finding new artists, discussing concepts, creating rough ideas, getting studio approvals, receiving finished art, preparing art for printing, and, ultimately, releasing the print on the Acme website. Questions will be taken throughout the program. Room 26AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Seminars & Workshops

5:30-6:30 Creating the New Mythology— Top comic creators Peter David (Incredible Hulk, X-Factor) and Marc Guggenheim (Wolverine, Resurrection) reveal the ins and outs of working within creative teams—and how those relationships lead to the creation of today's modern myths and what it means to be working in mythology. Moderated by Comics Experience's Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Annihilation). Room 30CDE
Categories: Comics | Superheroes | Writers & Writing

5:45-6:45 Marvel: What's Next: Welcome to the Digital House of Ideas— Get the inside scoop on the all-new, all-improved, all-awesome Marvel.com, Marvel Digital Comics, and Marvel Motion Comics. With the launch of the groundbreaking Marvel Comics app in the iTunes App Store, this has been a historic year for the Digital House of Ideas. Now, find out what's next! Meet fellow fans of Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited and find out which of the hundreds of completed series in the service everyone's talking about. Plus, get caught up on Marvel.com's free streaming animated shows, how to "Create Your Own Comic" and "Super Hero" original video productions, and the Marvel Audience Network, including our very own social network. Join members of the Marvel Digital Media Group for all the digital dynamite! Room 6DE
Categories: Comics | Webcomics

6:00-7:00 Abusing the Sci of Sci-Fi— Ever watched a science fiction movie and groaned when the science is spun, folded, and mutilated? Sure, outrageous science is fun, but so is making fun of it. Astronomer and Discovermagazine.com blogger Phil Plait moderates this panel of sci-fi movers and shakers as they pick their favorite moments in good and bad TV and movie science. Panelists include Jaime Paglia (Eureka), Zack Stentz (Fringe, Thor), Bill Prady (The Big Bang Theory), Kevin Grazier (NASA scientist and Eureka advisor), and Sean Carroll (physicist and Discovermagazine.com blogger). Room 5AB
Categories: Fandom | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:00-7:00 Halo: Reach— Bungie hosts this discussion around the biggest game of 2010, including an in-person look at the campaign mode and a debut of some exciting Halo: Reach news. Room 6BCF
Categories: Action/Adventure | Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:00-7:00 Archaia: the Black Label Panel— The new Archaia Black Label specializes in co-developing intellectual properties with prestigious partners who are seeking to realize their ideas through the use of Archaia's resources. Panelists show exclusive preview images and discuss the first of the Archaia Black Label titles, including Days Missing: Kestus, with Roddenberry Productions' Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth, writer Phil Hester (Days Missing) and artist David Marquez (Syndrome); Moon Lake with creator Dan Fogler (Fanboys, Balls of Fury), writer R. H. Stavis (Demons of Mercy), and artist Robbi Rodriguez (Hazed); and Syndrome with Fantasy Prone's Blake Leibel (United Free Worlds), writers Daniel Quantz (Marvel Age: Spider-Man) and R. J. Ryan (Marvel Studios), and artist David Marquez. Room 9
Categories: Comics

6:00-7:00 Showtime's Dexter— What's next for America's Favorite Serial Killer? If the dramatic season finale left you in an, OMG-what-just-happened frenzy, you don't want to miss this killer panel! You'll see the exclusive world premiere of the new season's trailer, then moderator Ralph Garman (KROQ entertainment reporter) presides over a revealing interview and Q&A session with the stars and executive producers of Dexter. Featured panelists include Michael C. Hall (series star/executive producer), Jennifer Carpenter (Deb), Desmond Harrington (Quinn), and executive producers John Goldwyn, Sara Colleton, Chip Johannessen (24), and Manny Coto (Star Trek: Enterprise). The new season premieres September 26, at 9:00 pm ET/PT only on Showtime. Ballroom 20
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Television

6:00-7:00 FUNimation Entertainment— Representatives from FUNimation Entertainment, the leader in Japanese anime in North America, are on hand to talk about all the hot items and news coming up this year. Stop by to check out some of their latest products, see some trailers, and ask FUNimation folks any question you would like. Room 25ABC
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga

6:00-7:00 Writing Queer: Creating and Writing LGBT Characters— Creating genuine and well-rounded LGBT characters is a challenge for writers, as they must give voice to a population whose stories have been kept hidden for so long. How do writers, both queer and straight, as well as mainstream and independent, create narratives that reflect the diversity and humanity of LGBT individuals, as well as the obstacles they face? Moderator Justin Hall (Glamazonia, Prism Comics' talent chair) leads a spirited conversation with some of the best writers working in comics today: Paige Braddock (Jane's World), Howard Cruse (Stuck Rubber Baby), Gilbert Hernandez (Love and Rockets), Greg Rucka (Detective Comics), Gail Simone (Wonder Woman), and Judd Winick (Pedro and Me). Room 32AB
Categories: Cartooning and Comic Strips | Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | Comics

6:00-7:00 Universal: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World— Genre-bending filmmaker Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz), graphic novel author Bryan Lee O'Malley, and the cast of Universal Pictures' Scott Pilgrim vs. the World provide a sneak peek of summer 2010's epic of epic epicness. Joining Wright will be our hero, Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera of Superbad); Scott's two current girlfriends, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead of The Thing) and Knives Chau (Ellen Wong of Unnatural History); his band, SEX BOB-OMB: Kim Pine (Alison Pill of Milk) and Stephen Stills (Mark Webber of Broken Flowers); SEX BOB-OMB super-fan Young Neil (Johnny Simmons of Jennifer's Body); Scott's awesome roommate, Wallace Wells (Kieran Culkin of Igby Goes Down); and four of Ramona's seven evil exes: Matthew Patel (Satya Bhabha of Fair Game), Todd Ingram (Brandon Routh of Superman Returns), Gideon Graves (Jason Schwartzman of Funny People) and Roxy Richter (Mae Whitman of Parenthood); plus Scott's younger sister, Stacey Pilgrim (Anna Kendrick of Up in the Air), and the obnoxious Julie Powers (Aubrey Plaza of Parks and Recreation). Q&A to follow. Hall H
Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:15-7:15 Vertigo: The New Classics— Over the years the Vertigo imprint has produced smart, shocking, and critically acclaimed series such as The Sandman, Preacher, Y: The Last Man, Hellblazer, and Fables, to name a few. Now, Vertigo's latest ongoing series are poised to join those legendary ranks with The Unwritten, American Vampire, Sweet Tooth, and iZombie. Get a peek at these future classics with your host, senior VP/executive editor Karen Berger, plus Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Peter Gross (The Unwritten), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth), Chris Roberson (iZombie), Scott Snyder (American Vampire), and others. Room 6A
Categories: Comics | Horror and Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:30-7:30 Bandai Entertainment: 2010 and Beyond— Bandai Entertainment president Ken Iyadomi, marketing director Robert Napton, and marketing associate Loy Fruel discuss releases such as The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya, Zeta Gundam Movies, Gurren Lagann, Lucky Star manga, and many more. Trailers, Q&A, and free stuff! Room 3
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga

6:30-7:30 From the Computer Screen to the Silver Screen— Learn how to build online audiences for your independent comic, film, and TV properties! With the spectacular success of indie projects like Sanctuary and Riese, independent producers are starting to use the web to break into mainstream media on their own terms. But how do you leverage that medium to turn your story into the property that all the studios want to acquire? It all comes down to understanding your audience. Social networking experts Matt Toner and Jessica Leigh Clark-Bojin (Zeros 2 Heroes Media), content creator Kaleena Kiff (Riese the Series), private investor Keith Turner (Meridian Capital), and digital distributor Jonathan Ford (Content Film) reveal some of the tricks of the trade that will help you get a leg up in making your web series a mainstream success. Room 4
Categories: Animation | Art and Illustration | Comics | Movies | Seminars & Workshops | Television | Writers & Writing

6:30-7:30 Origins and Evolutions of a Video Game Super Hero— Sucker Punch Productions, the developer behind the critically acclaimed PS3 summer blockbuster inFamous, takes you behind the scenes in the making and evolution of superhero Cole MacGrath. Unlike most superheroes, Cole and the inFamous universe were designed from the ground up as a video game, rather than as a scripted linear book or show. Key members of the Sucker Punch team discuss how this video-game-first approach affects every aspects of the creative process -- including character designs, super powers, architecture, morality, and the narrative structure. Additionally, attendees will get a first look at the 2D graphic cut scenes from inFamous 2, as well as have an opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A. Room 7AB
Categories: Games

6:30-7:30 Still More Dirty Secrets of the Video Game Industry— Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the locked doors of the video game industry? Would you like to break into that industry? Is there anyone in the biz you can go to for help and straight answers? If you said yes to the first two questions, this program can help with the third! Industry veteran Alex Jimenez (Darkstalkers, Enigma) reveals the inner secrets of the game industry and answers your questions on cracking into this tough yet rewarding field. Whether your interest is art, programming, or design, he has the answers you're looking for and all the dirty secrets you need to know! Room 8
Categories: Art and Illustration | Games | Writers & Writing

6:30-7:30 Shocker Toys: From Print to Plastic— Geoff Beckett and Lance Buttiglieri discuss the latest plans from Shocker Toys, plus how they go from comic to 2D design to 3D print-out to sample injection to the final Indie Spotlight figures. New series and licenses will be announced and future toylines will be laid out along with a Q&A and prize giveaways. Joining them will be John Vegher from 3D Modeler, Tony Robles from Tonyz Customs, and a few comic creators to talk about going from print to plastic with their characters. Room 24ABC
Categories: Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles | Comics

6:30-7:30 Magic: The Gathering Panel— On the heels of Magic's most successful year in its 17-year history, some of the game's top creators share details on upcoming products as well as answer your questions. The panel, moderated by Mark Rosewater (head Magic designer), includes Aaron Forsythe (director, Magic R&D), Brian Tinsman (lead designer, Rise of the Eldrazi), Richard Whitters (lead magic concept artist), and others. Room 26AB
Categories: Games | Science Fiction & Fantasy

6:30-7:30 Adventures in Voice Acting Workshop— Back by popular demand, this one-hour class about voice acting covers practical dubbing techniques, important issues such as studio protocol, and what to expect at your first audition. Here's an opportunity for attendees interested in the voice-acting profession to get firsthand advice and experience from the pros in an intimate yet dynamic and exciting setting. Learn directly from some of the best voice actors and directors in the world. You'll also get some inside information on how to break in and what the industry is really like. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans and aspiring voice actors to interact with some of the most accomplished members of the industry. Celebrity panelists and surprise guests will attend. Room 30CDE
Categories: Animation | Movies | Television

6:45-7:45 Robotech: The First Quarter Century— Robotech creative director Tommy Yune and Robotech screenwriter Steve Yun cover the history of the television series that introduced a generation to anime. They also pay tribute to the late Carl Macek, the original producer of Robotech, who started this whole phenomenon. Room 6DE
Categories: Animation | Anime & Manga

Nighttime Programs

7:00-8:00 The Antidote Trust's Indie Comics How To— Do you make comics? Want to make comics? Going the indie route? Well, The Antidote Trust has been doing it separately and collectively for a few years now, and they'd like to tell you how they do things. Bring your questions! The Antidote Trust will tell you why they make comics, particularly as indies in an industry that is branching out more and more every day. Featuring Robert Roach (The Roach), Dale Wilson (Magnificent Creatures), Richard Hamilton (Return of the Super Pimps), Vincent S. Moore (Omnium Gatherum), and Andre Owens (Force Galaxia) and moderated by Geoffrey Thorne (Prodigal). Room 5AB
Categories: Art and Illustration | Comics | Nighttime Programming | Seminars & Workshops | Writers & Writing

7:00-8:00 Comics on Comics Live!— ComicsonComics.com, the innovative web series that pits comedians against comic book creators in geek debates, comes to the San Diego Comic-Con with a special live show! Host Jonathan London (Geekscape.net) and comedian Ralph Garman (Family Guy) match wits with some surprising guests from the worlds of comic books and comedy! Room 9
Categories: Comics | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming

7:15-8:15 A New Generation of Spike & Mike— Spike and Mike's Festival of Animation is blasting back to Comic-Con with two mind-spinning shows! First up this year is the new genre show, A New Generation of Spike and Mike Animation, that premiered in La Jolla with rave reviews: Loft Cinema wrote "Spike and Mike's New Generation Animation Festival could easily be one of the best things to ever happen to modern animation." Come join the fun and meet Spike! Room 6BCF
Categories: Animation | Nighttime Programming

7:30-8:30 Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog— Sing along with your fellow fans at this screening of the original three acts of Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, hosted by the California Browncoats, complete with lyrics books and call backs! Dr. Horrible stars Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Nathan Fillion (Castle, Firefly) and Felicia Day (The Guild) and was written by Joss Whedon (Serenity), Jed Whedon (Dollhouse), Zack Whedon (Fringe), and Maurissa Tancharoen (Dollhouse). Room 6A
Categories: Fandom | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

7:30-9:30 First Look! Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics— Behind the amazing tales of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Watchmen is the equally impressive story of the challenges, creativity and triumphs of the company that brought those characters to life. Warner Home Video and DC Entertainment present a first look at the new documentary Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics, a compelling insider's tale and a 75th anniversary celebration as seen through the inkwells of those who created and lived it, balanced with insights from key historians and filled with interviews, archival footage, and a dazzling parade of those forever riveting and splashy DC covers. Included in the premiere event is a panel of distinguished representatives of DC's storied history. Produced by the Academy Award–nominated team behind Spellbound, this documentary is narrated by Ryan Reynolds (Green Lantern) and will be distributed by Warner Home Video in November 2010. Room 7AB
Categories: Anniversaries | Comics | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

7:30-8:30 Transcending Trauma: From the Birth of Batman to the Rise of the Red Hood— Traumatic experiences are a common element in the origins of many comic book characters, but do these experiences alone explain the characters' paths to heroism or villainy? What drove Batman to become a hero instead of a "nemesis"? Was Robin destined to become a "hood"? Do characters such as the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, and Punisher meet criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Returning to Comic-Con after their "Unlocking Arkham" panel last year, the physicians of Broadcast Thought explore how trauma has affected these and other characters. Examine comic book depictions of responses to trauma, evaluate their accuracy, and discover their real world correlates. Learn as H. Eric Bender, M.D., Praveen R. Kambam, M.D., and Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D. use their backgrounds in child/adolescent, adult, and forensic psychiatry to discuss responses to traumatic experiences and apply theories of attachment, development, and resiliency to the formation of the hero. Bring your questions and join the doctors as they lend their unique expertise to Comic-Con, exploring how comic book characters transcend trauma or descend into villainy! Room 8
Categories: Comics | Nighttime Programming | Superheroes

7:30-8:30 Penn + Teller: 35 Years of Magic & BS!— Penn Jillette and Teller (Showtime's Penn & Teller: BS!) share insights into their 35-year-long careers with audience Q&A, TV and film clips, and a few tricks. Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Anniversaries | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Television

8:00-11:00 BBC America: U.S. Premiere Screenings of Doctor Who and Being Human— Catch the all-new season opener of Being Human, written by Toby Whithouse and starring Russell Tovey, Lenora Crichlow, Aidan Turner and Sinead Keenan and the two-part finale of Doctor Who, written by Steven Moffat and starring Matt Smith and Karen Gillan. Room 6DE
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television

8:00-9:00 GeekRoundTable/Geek-Tastic Live!— Where has GeekRoundTable been for the last 12 months? Find out what they've been up to. Check out the most racially diverse podcast on the net, now in partnership with Geek-tastic.com. Join in on a funny, information-filled discussion and maybe win a prize! Show creator and host Ned Cato Jr., executive producer Jesse C. Lopez, website creator and GRT producer Patrick Roach, and an incredible cast of geeks show you a time so good you'll have to keep it a secret...pinkie swear! Room 9
Categories: Comics | Fandom | Movies | Nighttime Programming | Television

8:15-9:15 The Sushi Typhoon: The Best in Japanese Genre Movies— Horror, sci-fi, action, and splatter comedy films from Japan have become the most popular new genre in fandom. From the creators of Tokyo Gore Police, The Machine Girl, Suicide Club, Ichi the Killer, Battlefield Baseball, Meatball Machine, and many others comes The Sushi Typhoon, an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of Japanese genre moviemaking about to hit U.S. shores in partnership with Funimation Entertainment! Director Yoshihiro Nishimura (Tokyo Gore Police), actor Masanori Mimoto (The Ultimate Versus), actress Mika Hijii (Ninja), and producer Yoshinori Chiba (Yatterman) are on hand for a special launch presentation introducing American audiences to the new label, featuring guest Q&A's, trailers for Alien vs. Ninja and Mutant Girls Squad (both screening on Friday night at SDCC), and an exclusive preview of Nishimura's upcoming zombie epic Helldriver, including an exciting first look at footage from the film! Room 5AB
Categories: Action/Adventure | Animation | Anime & Manga | Horror and Suspense | Nighttime Programming | Science Fiction & Fantasy

8:15-11:15 Superhero Kung Fu Extravaganza— Author, scripter, comic book writer, editor, and professor Ric Meyers (Inside Kung-Fu) brings you the best in freaky, funny, fantastic film fighting for the 12th year running. As in the past, you'll laugh, gasp, and cheer, and you can also expect some surprise guest stars, rare freebies, and maybe even a world premiere sneak peek or two! Room 6BCF
Categories: Action/Adventure | Comics | Humor & Satire | Nighttime Programming | Writers & Writing

9:30-11:45 Night of the Living Dead: Reanimated Screening and Panel Discussion— NOTLD: R is a collection of animated and illustrated responses created by nearly 150 international artists/animators and arranged to the original 1968 film's audio track by curator Mike Schneider. Contributing artists John Chesnut and Josh Barnett (claymation and cut-out animation), Jacquelyn Bond (watercolor paintings), Grant Fuhst (mixed-media artwork), Sean Williams (hand-drawn animation), Zina Lahr (toy modification/ experimental animation), Brad Uyeda (stop-motion animation), Anthony Amos (digital animation), and Eric Schock (comic book illustration) meet to screen NOTLD: R (which comes out on DVD July 27), discuss their involvement with the project, and take questions. Moderated by Beth Accomando (KPBS film critic). Giveaways at the screening will include horror-hosted DVDs of NOTLD: R and limited-edition teaser posters. Room 5AB
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Movies | Nighttime Programming

10:00-12:00 World Premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst— The Frog Brothers return to Comic-Con with holy water balloons ablazin' for the world premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst, the latest high-energy, action-packed adventure in the ongoing franchise. Original cast members Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander present the first-ever screening of the cult classic's third film, in which the lost boys and girls of San Cazador prepare to party under the Blood Moon -- while an alpha vampire conspires to turn these unsuspecting ravers into an army of undead. The only thing that stands between him and the annihilation of the entire human race are the infamous vampire-fighting Frog Brothers. Expect some serious bloodsucker butt kicking. And Warner Bros. is providing the free popcorn! Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
Categories: Horror and Suspense | Humor & Satire | Movies | Nighttime Programming

Emmy Nominations Unveiled: Love for Friday Night Lights, Modern Family, Mad Men, Lost, True Blood, and More

It's that time of year again: Emmy nominations.

Modern Family's Sofia Vergara and Community's Joel McHale were on hand bright and early this morning to announce the Primetime Emmy Award nominations. (I stayed home to watch E! Online's stream of the press conference rather than drive over there bleary-eyed and unable to conceal my frustration about overlooked performances and series in person.)

While Vergara ultimately walked away with a nomination for supporting actress for Modern Family (as did most of her co-stars, in fact), McHale was sadly shut out of the nominations, as was Community, a real slap in the face (along with that for Parks and Recreation) considering that Community and Parks were both streets ahead of The Office and 30 Rock this season. Grr.

So which series did the best overall? HBO's The Pacific walked away with an impressive 24 nominations, followed closely by FOX's Glee at 19 nods, AMC's Mad Men at 17, and 15 nominations apiece for Temple Grandin, 30 Rock, and You Don't Know Jack. Critical darling Modern Family earned 14 nominations, while Lost scored 12.

While it's unlikely to change FX's decision about keeping the series around, Damages walked away with several key nominations including Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama (Glenn Close), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama (Martin Short), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama (Rose Byrne), Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama (Ted Danson), and Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama (Lily Tomlin).

Perhaps seeing the final season as a way of addressing past snubs, the TV Academy issued nominations to Matthew Fox, Terry O'Quinn, and Michael Emerson for Lost. (About time.) And, yes, Elizabeth Mitchell even got in on the action, scoring a nomination for guest actress in a drama series for her role as Juliet Burke in the series finale.

So what do I think about the nominations? A list of nominees and reactions for each of the major category can be found below, while you can download the full list of nominees here.

Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
62nd Primetime Emmy Award Nominations

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television
Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper

Curb Your Enthusiasm • HBO • HBO Entertainment
Larry David as Himself

Glee • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Matthew Morrison as Will Schuester

Monk • USA • Universal Cable Productions in association with Mandeville Films and ABC Studios
Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk

The Office • NBC • Deedle-Dee Productions and Reveille LLC in association with Universal Media Studios
Steve Carell as Michael Scott

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio
Alec Baldwin as Jack Donaghy

This was a fairly predictable category, though I have to yawn again at the inclusion of Tony Shalhoub over such other contenders as Parks and Recreations' Nick Offerman in this category, which tends to feature the same actors over and over again. Fortunately, Matthew Morrison edged out a certain actor from CBS' Two and a Half Men and the Academy realized that we're all tired of Entourage. As for who will win, I'd like to see Larry David walk away with the statuette next month for Curb Your Enthusiasm, really.

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series
Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television
Bryan Cranston as Walter White

Dexter • Showtime • Showtime Presents, John Goldwyn Productions, The Colleton Company, Clyde Phillips Productions
Michael C. Hall as Dexter Morgan

Friday Night Lights • DirecTV • Imagine Entertainment in association with Universal Media Studios and Film 44
Kyle Chandler as Eric Taylor

House • FOX • Universal Media Studios in association with Heel and Toe Films, Shore Z Productions and Bad Hat Harry Productions
Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House

Lost • ABC • Grass Skirts Productions, LLC in association with ABC Network and Studios
Matthew Fox as Jack Shephard

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television
Jon Hamm as Don Draper

Now this is a very tough category. I'm extremely pleased to see that the Academy opted to shine a light on the compelling work of Friday Night Lights's Kyle Chandler, whose performance as Eric Taylor is the stuff of legends. (Was Chandler not born to play this role?) But he faces some stiff competition from Matthew Fox, Jon Hamm, Hugh Laurie, Bryan Cranston, and Michael C. Hall. This is going to be a very tight race among some supremely talented actors. I don't even dare to hazard a guess here, though I would love it if Chandler did the nearly impossible and walked away the winner. (Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose!)

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie
A Dog Year • HBO • Duopoly in association with HBO Films
Jeff Bridges as Jon Katz

The Prisoner • AMC • AMC, ITV Productions and Granada
Ian McKellen as Two

The Special Relationship • HBO • A Rainmark and Kennedy/Marshall Production in association with HBO Films
Michael Sheen as Tony Blair

The Special Relationship • HBO • A Rainmark and Kennedy/Marshall Production in association with HBO Films
Dennis Quaid as Bill Clinton

You Don't Know Jack • HBO • Bee Holder, Cine Mosaic and Levinson/Fontana Productions in association with HBO Films
Al Pacino as Dr. Jack Kevorkian

While I'd love Sheen to be recognized for his role in The Special Relationship, particularly after playing British PM Tony Blair with such incisive nuance for the third time (after The Deal and The Queen), I'd say that Pacino's turn as Jack Kevorkian is the showier role here. Point to Pacino, I think.

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series
Glee • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Lea Michele as Rachel Berry

The New Adventures Of Old Christine • CBS • Kari's Logo Here in association with Warner Bros. Television
Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Christine Campbell

Nurse Jackie • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber; A Caryn Mandabach Production
Edie Falco as Jackie Peyton

Parks And Recreation • NBC • Produced by Deedle-Dee Productions and Universal Media Studios
Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio
Tina Fey as Liz Lemon

United States Of Tara • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Dreamworks Television
Toni Collette as Tara Gregson

Don't get me started on the inclusion of Lea Michele here for Glee. I don't consider the series a comedy on really any level (other than the participation of Jane Lynch), nor do I buy Michele as the "lead actress" of anything other than an ensemble player of a middling musical dramedy. My hope is that Amy Poehler walks away the winner here as Parks and Recreation is the funniest comedy on television right now and was unjustly shut out of the nominations. Should Poehler not get the win, I'd also be ecstatic if Edie Falco took home the win for the darkly funny Nurse Jackie. (Ordinarily, I'd be rooting for Tina Fey but this season of 30 Rock was not the show's best or sharpest.)

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series
The Closer • TNT • The Shephard/Robin Company, in association with Warner Bros. Television
Kyra Sedgwick as Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson

Damages • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK Productions
Glenn Close as Patty Hewes

Friday Night Lights • DirecTV • Imagine Entertainment in association with Universal Media Studios and Film 44
Connie Britton as Tami Taylor

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Productions
Julianna Margulies as Alicia Florrick

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit • NBC • Wolf Films in association with Universal Media Studios
Mariska Hargitay as Det. Olivia Benson

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television
January Jones as Betty Draper

I am happy to see that someone is recognizing the work that January Jones is doing on Mad Men; for some reason critics and audiences are far too prone to writing off her performance for some reason but her work in Season Three of Mad Men was provocative and powerful, even as Betty Draper became more and more unlikable. I'm thrilled to see Connie Britton listed here for Friday Night Lights as she is more than deserving of a nomination for her stunning turn once again as Tami Taylor. And it's no surprise that Julianna Margulies landed herself a nom for the freshman season of The Good Wife, one of the few breakout hits of the past season, nor that Glenn Close is here for Damages. While I'd love all three women to share the award, that's just not going to happen. If I was a betting man, I'd bet on Margulies for The Good Wife. Though I'd love to hear Britton's acceptance speech, if I'm being heartfelt.

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Miniseries Or A Movie
Capturing Mary • HBO • A talkbackTHAMES Production in association with the BBC and HBO Films
Maggie Smith as Mary Gilbert

Georgia O'Keeffe • Lifetime • Sony Pictures Television for Lifetime Television
Joan Allen as Georgia O’Keeffe

Return To Cranford (Masterpiece) • PBS • BBC/WGBH in association with Chestermead
Dame Judi Dench as Miss Matty

The Special Relationship • HBO • A Rainmark and Kennedy/Marshall Production in association with HBO Films
Hope Davis as Hillary Clinton

Temple Grandin • HBO • A Ruby Films, Gerson Saines Production in association with HBO Films
Claire Danes as Temple Grandin

Two words: Claire Danes. Her performance in Temple Grandin was nothing less than stellar and she not only imbued her turn with heart, strength, and passion, but she also perfectly captured the cadence and rhythm of Grandin herself. (Which I can say, having met and spent time with Temple.) It's a brave and bravura performance that I hope nets the former My So-Called Life star an Emmy Award next month, if there's any justice.

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series
Glee • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Chris Colfer as Kurt Hummel

How I Met Your Mother • CBS • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Neil Patrick Harris as Barney Stinson

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Mitchell

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Eric Stonestreet as Cameron Tucker

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Ty Burrell as Phil Dunphy

Two And A Half Men • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc., The Tannenbaum Company in association with Warner Bros. Television
Jon Cryer as Alan Harper

Of the Glee nominations, I'm happy to see Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch represented as they are the only things that kept me watching Glee through its first season. Save Ed O'Neill (wrongly overlooked here), the entire male cast of Modern Family earned themselves nominations. While they are all tops at their game, I actually hope that the Academy gives the win to Eric Stonestreet for his hysterical and heartfelt performance as Cameron. I'm hoping Stonestreet walks away the winner here. (Come on, Eric!)

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television
Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman

Damages • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK Productions
Martin Short as Leonard Winstone

Lost • ABC • Grass Skirts Productions, LLC in association with ABC Network and Studios
Terry O'Quinn as John Locke

Lost • ABC • Grass Skirts Productions, LLC in association with ABC Network and Studios
Michael Emerson as Ben Linus

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television
John Slattery as Roger Sterling

Men Of A Certain Age • TNT • TNT Original Productions
Andre Braugher as Owen

I'm extremely chuffed to see O'Quinn and Emerson nominated here together for their stunning work on Lost. One can't help but feel that the nod isn't just for the final season of Lost but their collective work over the years on the ABC drama series, which wrapped its run in May. Likewise, Short gave a nuanced and compelling turn on Damages, playing against type and yet not becoming a walking creepshow like Darryl Hammond the season before. And it's always gratifying to see Aaron Paul nominated here for his performance as Jessie Pinkman on AMC's Breaking Bad and John Slattery for his work on Mad Men. Tough category to call but I'm going to give this to Paul.

(Still crushed, however, that Fringe's John Noble failed to get a nomination here for his staggering work as Walter Bishop this season.)

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie
Emma (Masterpiece) • PBS • A co-production of BBC Productions and WGBH Boston
Michael Gambon as Mr. Woodhouse

Hamlet (Great Performances) • PBS • production of Illuminations and Royal
Shakespeare Company for BBC in association with Thirteen for WNET.org and NHK
Patrick Stewart as Ghost / Claudius

Return To Cranford (Masterpiece) • PBS • BBC/WGBH in association with Chestermead
Jonathan Pryce as Mr. Buxton

Temple Grandin • HBO • A Ruby Films, Gerson Saines Production in association with HBO Films
David Strathairn as Dr. Carlock

You Don't Know Jack • HBO • Bee Holder, Cine Mosaic and Levinson/Fontana Productions in association with HBO Films
John Goodman as Neal Nicol

Would love to see Gambon take this one home for Emma as he was absolutely perfect as Mr. Woodhouse. Having said that, I also think that Patrick Stewart may walk away for his turn in Great Performances' Hamlet. Hmmm...

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series
Glee • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Jane Lynch as Sue Sylvester

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Julie Bowen as Claire Dunphy

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Sofia Vergara as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with NBC Studios and Broadway Video
Kristen Wiig as Various Characters

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio
Jane Krakowski as Jenna Maroney

Two And A Half Men • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc., The Tannenbaum Company in association with Warner Bros. Television
Holland Taylor as Evelyn Harper

I would be amazed if anyone other than Jane Lynch won here. She's the only real reason, as far as I am concerned, that Glee was even able to sneak into the comedy category. You can engrave that statuette now as far as I'm concerned.

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series
Burn Notice • USA • FOX Television Studios in association with Fuse Entertainment
Sharon Gless as Madeline Westen

Damages • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK Productions
Rose Byrne as Ellen Parsons

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Productions
Archie Panjabi as Kalinda Sharma

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Productions
Christine Baranski as Diane Lockhart

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television
Christina Hendricks as Joan Harris

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television
Elisabeth Moss as Peggy Olson

So many worthy actresses competing here. Personally, I'd love for Rose Byrne or Christina Hendricks to win here. Normally, I think Elisabeth Moss is tops but she had a much quieter role this past season on Mad Men while Hendricks' Joan Harris (nee Holloway) and Byrne's Ellen Parsons seized their respective seasons by the throat and never let go. Dare I say that I'm rooting for Hendricks here?

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie
Alice • Syfy • A Reunion Pictures and Studio Eight Production in association with RHI Entertainment
Kathy Bates as Queen of Hearts

Temple Grandin • HBO • A Ruby Films, Gerson Saines Production in association with HBO Films
Julia Ormond as Eustacia (Temple's Mom)

Temple Grandin • HBO • A Ruby Films, Gerson Saines Production in association with HBO Films
Catherine O'Hara as Aunt Ann

You Don't Know Jack • HBO • Bee Holder, Cine Mosaic and Levinson/Fontana Productions in association with HBO Films
Brenda Vaccaro as Margo Janus

You Don't Know Jack • HBO • Bee Holder, Cine Mosaic and Levinson/Fontana Productions in association with HBO Films
Susan Sarandon as Janet Good

I'd love this to go to Catherine O'Hara. I love when comedic actors go against the grain and turn in dramatic and moving performances. Ormand was also absolutely amazing in HBO's Temple Grandin but there was such a subtlety and dignity to O'Hara's Ann in the biopic that I hope she's recognized... and starts working more and more in the dramatic arena.

Outstanding Guest Actor In A Comedy Series
Glee • Wheels • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Mike O'Malley as Burt Hummel

Glee • Dream On • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Neil Patrick Harris as Bryan Ryan

Modern Family • Travels With Scout • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television
Fred Willard as Frank Dunphy

Nurse Jackie • Chicken Soup • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber; A Caryn Mandabach Production
Eli Wallach as Bernard Zimberg

30 Rock • Emmanuelle Goes To Dinosaur Land • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio
Jon Hamm as Dr. Drew Baird

30 Rock • Into The Crevasse • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in
association with Universal Media Studio
Will Arnett as Devin Banks

While I'm loath to root for Glee, I'd love to see Mike O'Malley win for his turn as Kurt's surprisingly supportive father Burt.

Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series
The Closer • Make Over • TNT • The Shephard/Robin Company, in association with Warner Bros. Television
Beau Bridges as Detective George Andrews

Damages • The Next One's Gonna Go In Your Throat • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK Productions
Ted Danson as Arthur Frobisher

Dexter • Road Kill • Showtime • Showtime Presents, John Goldwyn Productions, The Colleton Company, Clyde Phillips Productions
John Lithgow as Arthur Mitchell

The Good Wife • Fleas • CBS • CBS Productions
Alan Cumming as Eli Gold
The Good Wife • Bad • CBS • CBS Productions
Dylan Baker as Colin Sweeney

Mad Men • Shut The Door. Have A Seat. • AMC • Lionsgate Television
Robert Morse as Bertram Cooper

24 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM • FOX • Imagine Television and 20th Century Fox TV in association w/ Teakwood Lane Productions
Gregory Itzin as President Charles Logan

Let's be honest: is there any way that John Lithgow won't win for his turn as Trinity on Showtime's Dexter? Granted, there's no way that this was a "guest" role but he's in the category and he is almost certain to walk away with the statue next month. Would be shocked if it played out any other way.

Outstanding Guest Actress In A Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory • The Maternal Congruence • CBS • Chuck Lorre
Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television
Christine Baranski as Beverly Hofstadter

Desperate Housewives • The Chase • ABC • ABC Studios
Kathryn Joosten as Karen McCluskey

Glee • The Rhodes Not Taken • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV
Kristin Chenoweth as April Rhodes

Saturday Night Live • Host: Tina Fey • NBC • SNL Studios in association with NBC Studios and Broadway Video
Tina Fey as Host

Saturday Night Live • Host: Betty White • NBC • SNL Studios in association with NBC Studios and Broadway Video
Betty White as Host

30 Rock • The Moms • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio
Elaine Stritch as Colleen Donaghy

Two And A Half Men • 818-JKLPUZO • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc., The Tannenbaum Company in association with Warner Bros. Television
Jane Lynch as Dr. Linda Freeman

Cough, Betty White, cough. Is there anything this woman can't do?

Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series
Big Love • The Might And The Strong • HBO • Anima Sola Productions and Playtone in association with HBO Entertainment
Mary Kay Place as Adaleen Grant

Big Love • End Of Days • HBO • Anima Sola Productions and Playtone in association with HBO Entertainment
Sissy Spacek as Marilyn Densham

The Cleaner • Does Everybody Have A Drink? • A&E • CBS Paramount Television in association with Once A Frog Productions for A&E Network
Shirley Jones as Lola Zellman

Damages • Your Secrets Are Safe • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK Productions
Lily Tomlin as Marilyn Tobin

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit • Bedtime • NBC • Wolf Films in association with Universal Media Studios
Ann-Margret as Rita Wills

Lost • The End • ABC • Grass Skirts Productions, LLC in association with ABC Network and Studios
Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliet Burke

I'm beyond thrilled to see Elizabeth Mitchell in this category for her role as Juliet on Lost in the series finale and it really comes down to her and Sissy Spacek for Big Love. For me, anyway. I'd love it to be one of them, though Tomlin also gave a stirring and vicious performance as Marilyn Tobin this past season on Damages. Hmmm...

Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program
The Amazing Race • CBS • World Race Productions Inc.
Phil Keoghan as Host

American Idol • FOX • FremantleMedia N.A., Inc. & 19TV Ltd.
Ryan Seacrest as Host

Dancing With The Stars • ABC • BBC Worldwide Productions
Tom Bergeron as Host

Project Runway • Lifetime • The Weinstein Company, Miramax Films, Bunim-Murray Productions and Full Picture
Heidi Klum as Host

Survivor • CBS • SEG Inc.
Jeff Probst as Host

I'm going for Phil Keoghan all the way for The Amazing Race. Hands down the classiest reality show host and he displays more emotion in one eyebrow lift than many actors do in their entire frames.

Outstanding Comedy Series
Curb Your Enthusiasm • HBO • HBO Entertainment

Glee • FOX • A Ryan Murphy TV Production in association with 20th Century Fox TV

Modern Family • ABC • Twentieth Century Fox Television

Nurse Jackie • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber; A Caryn Mandabach Production

The Office • NBC • Deedle-Dee Productions and Reveille LLC in association with Universal Media Studios

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Media Studio

I have to say that I'm really, really irritated that both Parks and Recreation and Community were shut out of this category while The Office, which suffered through its worst season to date, and 30 Rock, which had a middling one, once again landed spots here. While the Glee nod is not surprising, it also took away a spot from a genuine--and actually funny all the way through--comedy like the two named. I am extremely happy, however, that Modern Family and Nurse Jackie earned nominations here... while HBO's Entourage did not. If there's any justice in the entire world (and Hollywood), Modern Family will be crowned the winner for outstanding comedy. I'm keeping my fingers very tightly crossed.

Outstanding Drama Series
Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Dexter • Showtime • Showtime Presents, John Goldwyn Productions, The Colleton Company, Clyde Phillips Productions

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Productions

Lost • ABC • Grass Skirts Productions, LLC in association with ABC Network and Studios

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

True Blood • HBO • Your Face Goes Here Entertainment in association with HBO Entertainment

Five very strong series, each with their own bands of devoted viewers, likely going to the mats for their favorite. Breaking Bad delivered some majorly stunning surprises this season, as did Showtime's Dexter, which ended in a literal bloodbath. As for ABC's Lost, I'm one of the few who didn't think that Season Five of Lost was its strongest season... and I would have liked to have seen FX's Justified earn a spot here. (Also missing: Sons of Anarchy.)I'm pleasantly surprised to see HBO's True Blood here (taking the spot for Big Love, I would imagine) but I did think that the second season of the vampire drama transcended its roots to deliver a season that combined the seductive quality of the supernatural with something profound and powerful.

Having said that, my vote goes to Mad Men for its entirely superlative season, which in true Matthew Weiner fashion, changed up the rules of its game, ending relationships and altering the underlying foundation of the series in more ways than one. I'm once again rooting for the period drama to grab that prize.

Outstanding Miniseries
The Pacific • HBO • Playtone and Dreamworks in association with HBO
Miniseries

Return To Cranford (Masterpiece) • PBS • BBC/WGBH in association with Chestermead

Outstanding Made For Television Movie
Endgame (Masterpiece) • PBS • Channel 4, Target Entertainment Group and
Masterpiece present A Daybreak Pictures Production

Georgia O'Keeffe • Lifetime • Sony Pictures Television for Lifetime Television

Moonshot • HISTORY • Produced by Dangerous Films LTD for History

The Special Relationship • HBO • A Rainmark and Kennedy/Marshall Production in association with HBO Films

Temple Grandin • HBO • A Ruby Films, Gerson Saines Production in association with HBO Films

You Don't Know Jack • HBO • Bee Holder, Cine Mosaic and Levinson/Fontana Productions in association with HBO Films

The Pacific may have more ardent supporters, but I'd actually like Temple Grandin to win here. Sometimes it's the smaller films that are just as important as the big-budget miniseries.

What did you think of the nominations? Who earned their nods? Who got wrongly shut out? Who do you think will win? Head to the comments section to discuss.

The Primetime Emmy Awards will be televised live coast-to-coast on Sunday, August 29th on NBC.

Channel Surfing: Mark Pellegrino Bites into Being Human, Weeds Snares Richard Dreyfuss, Marg Helgenberger Staying on CSI, and More

Welcome to your (slightly delayed) Thursday morning television briefing. A few headlines to get through on Emmy nomination day...

Score another genre hit for Mark Pellegrino. The former Lost and Supernatural co-star is heading to Syfy's US adaptation of supernatural drama Being Human, where he will play Bishop, described as the "charismatic and menacing mentor" to Sam Witwer's vampire Aidan. Pellegrino's casting nearly rounds out the cast for the American adaptation, though there's still one role outstanding (that would be Josh, the werewolf, though there have been rumblings about several actors auditioning for the role). Elsewhere, Patrick J. Adams (Friends With Benefits) has been cast as the lead in USA legal drama A Legal Mind, where he will play Mike Ross, described as "a brilliant but unmotivated college student who gets recruited by a top Manhattan corporate law firm despite not being a lawyer" and who must "use his book and street smarts and hustling skills to keep the charade." (Deadline)

In a bit of absolutely amazing casting, Richard Dreyfuss will appear in at least four episodes of Showtime's Weeds, which returns for its sixth season on August 16th. While the pay cabler is keeping a tight lid on just who Dreyfuss will be playing, Showtime revealed that he will play "an unexpected character" who previously crossed paths with Mary-Louise Parker's Nancy Botwin. Hmmm... (via press release)

Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello is reporting that Marg Helgenberger is staying put on CBS' CSI following the successful conclusion of her new contract. "With Helgenberger’s deal done, the spotlight shifts to fellow CSI vets George Eads (Nick), Eric Szmanda (Greg), and Paul Guilfoyle (Jim), all of whom are negotiating new deals ahead of the show’s 11th season," writes Ausiello. "Jorja Fox is also in talks to return in some capacity. Liz Vassey, meanwhile, will not be back." (Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files)

Alec Baldwin has reiterated his claims that he'll be leaving the cast of NBC's 30 Rock in 2012, when his contract with the Universal Media Studios-produced comedy expires. "As much as I like acting,I know that I would love to have a different life," Baldwin told CNN's Alina Cho. "A private life... I think that doing this now for a living has become really, really hard. I would rather go do other things, and [with] whatever amount of time I have left in my life, have a normal life." (via Vulture)

Which shows aren't going to be at San Diego Comic-Con this year? The Hollywood Reporter's James Hibberd rounds up the few television series that won't be making the trek down to San Diego, including Undercovers, Game of Thrones, $#*! My Dad Says, Haven, Doctor Who, Torchwood, and Conan O'Brien. And, oh, the reasons why they won't be down there. (Hollywood Reporter's The Live Feed)

Skeet Ulrich (Jericho) has been cast as one of the leads in NBC's upcoming Law & Order spinoff Law & Order: Los Angeles. Production on the series, from executive producer Dick Wolf, is slated to begin later this month. (Hollywood Reporter)

Vulture's Josef Adalian is reporting that ABC has opted to drop the mockumentary format from its upcoming cop drama Detroit 1-8-7. "The idea of dropping Detroit’s faux doc format was first brought up even before ABC officially ordered the show in May (though as recently as Tuesday, the network's online press materials still included the conceit in the show's description)," writes Adalian. "ABC is also launching another mockumentary-style series in the fall — My Generation, a soapy relationship drama which revolves around a group of pals who've been harassed by documentary makers since they were high school seniors back in 2000 — so one wonders if the network decided that three such shows (counting Modern Family) might test viewers’s patience. Detroit executive producers Jason Richman and David Zabel, however, say that wasn’t the motivating reason for the decision." As for the actual reason, the producers say that ABC found the narrative strong enough without the documentary conceit... and film crews are now banned from accompanying police officers on ride-alongs in Detroit, as of May. Art imitates life? (Vulture)

TV Land has ordered 20 additional episodes for its comedy Hot in Cleveland, a major sign of confidence in the series, which stars Jane Leeves, Valerie Bertinelli, Wendie Malick, and Betty White, as the initial commitment was only for ten installments. (via press release)

CBS has signed a blind script deal with writer Tom Spezialy (Desperate Housewives) through CBS Television Studios, under which he will write a new series project for the network... and won't be able to take the project elsewhere should a similar situation emerge as it did with Spezialy's last project, the 20th Century Fox Television-produced Chaos. (Variety)

Eric Lange (Lost) has been cast in a recurring role on Season Six of Showtime's Weeds, which launches next month. Lange will play Ellis Tate, described as "an old classmate of Nancy's." Further details were not immediately available as the pay cabler is keeping casting information very close to the vest this season. (Hollywood Reporter)

TeenNick's Degrassi will return to the schedule for its tenth season on July 19th (with a two-hour opener) and will then air Mondays through Thursdays before wrapping on August 26th. (Variety)

Stay tuned.