The Comic Creator Connection (CCC) is Comic-Con's premier networking event that brings together writers and artists who are searching for their creative counterparts. This "All-Star" panel spotlights some of the latest teams coming out of the CCC and their newest creations. Hosts Douglas Neff and Corey Rothermel (authors of Epic Win! The Geek's Guide to the Journey from Fan to Creator) will focus the discussion on how each team built a successful creative partnership, from their first handshake to their first draft to their first sale. This year's panelists include Dylan Davison, Jasper Korneitchouk, andRenatus Tao (Jack the Hunted), Alberto Veloso and Michelle Pengson (Virtues & Vices), Alberto Veloso and Victor "Mikey" Torres (Visions), and Jeff Rider and Michael Dorman (Major Holmes & Captain Watson). If you want to know how to create comics with another person, don't miss out on this collection of practical advice and hard-earned wisdom from the industry's newest published comic book creators!
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC
Comics professionals come together to discuss their unique contributions to their beloved medium in this star-studded panel. Topics include creating engaging characters with Margaret Atwood (Angel Catbird), transitioning from artist to writer/artist with Joëlle Jones (Lady Killer), and going from Kickstarting to book deal with Hope Nicholson (The Secret Loves of Geek Girls). Sure to be a great panel for the budding cartoonist eager to explore the craft of making comics!
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 25ABC
Kate Beaton (Step Aside Pops: A Hark! A Vagrant Collection), Emily Carroll (Through the Woods), and Lisa Hanawalt (Hot Dog Taste Test) are three of the most critically acclaimed cartoonists working today. All three are masters of the short form, imbuing great narrative depth into a few panels or a few pages of comics. Beaton, Carroll, Hanawalt and Abraham Riesman (associate editor of Vulture) will discuss how keeping things short can make for great stories.
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 28DE
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 20, 08:30AM The biggest event of the year, Civil War II, is underway and the Marvel Universe is reeling from the shocking events! Learn more about what’s to come with Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso, Director of Content & Character Development Sana Amanat, Marvel Talent Scout Rickey Purdin, as well as Sanford Greene (Power Man and Iron Fist), Marc Guggenheim (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Matthew Rosenberg (Civil War II: Kingpin), David Walker (Power Man and Iron Fist), and G. Willow Wilson (Ms. Marvel)!
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 6DE
Many people have dismissed queer content as adult content inappropriate for kids. However, as we've seen in the popularity and successes of Legend of Korra, Steven Universe, and Lumberjanes, LGBTQIA+ characters and storylines can resonate with young audiences. Moderator Dylan Edwards (Valley of the Silk Sky) leads as a discussion with Shannon Watters (Lumberjanes), James Tynion IV (Detective Comics, The Backstagers), Paige Braddock (Stinky Cecil, Peanuts, Jane's World), Magdalene Visaggio (Kim & Kim), and Josh Trujillo (Adventure Time, Love Machines) about how we can better include healthy representation and how to make it standard practice.
Bjo (legendary art show and costume contest organizer) and John (Equicon chair, long time SF fan) discuss their 1967 Save Star Trek campaign, their viewpoints on Star Trek today, and how cosplay grew from early costume activities. Moderated by Maggie Thompson (Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award winner and Comic-Con blogger).
Moderator Alex Segura (crime novelist and Archie writer) conducts a freewheeling discussion with acclaimed comic book writer, playwright, and screenwriter Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, spotlighting his time at Archie Comics, including the creation of the hit Afterlife with Archie and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comics and writing other beloved comic book properties like the Fantastic Four; his prolific television (Glee, Supergirl), theatrical (American Psycho, Spider-Man on Broadway), and movie (Carrie and Town that Dreaded Sundown remake) work; and the upcoming Riverdale TV series from the CW.
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 29AB
While almost every creator will tell you their greatest joy is in their acts of creation, none will argue that equally (or perhaps more) important is earning a living from their efforts. But commercializing creative works is fraught with peril unless you're prepared. This second stage of the case study focusing on (fictional) author Fitzgerald Scott will concentrate on Scott's efforts to commercialize his critically acclaimed new work, "Shylock Homer: The Sirens of the Baskervilles." Noted attorney Michael Lovitz, author of the acclaimed The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book, and IP and entertainment attorneys David Branfman and Terri Lubaroff present an interactive seminar tackling a group of more advanced issues facing creators (and the businesses that they work with) when marketing their properties and creative ideas, including: licenses and transfers of rights; key things to know when Hollywood comes knocking; publishing, manufacturing, merchandising, and distribution agreements; understanding key terms in contracts, assignments, and licenses; and (and time permitting) how Mrs. Fitzgerald Scott spouse may affect his contracts and licenses. Please note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and insights 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.]
Friday July 22, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 30CDE
Recent work analyzing comics has turned to scientific methods. Neil Cohn (Tilburg University) will chair this panel discussing projects that annotate properties of comics from around the world, and discuss growing efforts for analyzing comics within the cognitive sciences. Then, presentations by Jessika Axner (University of California, San Diego) and Michaela Diercks (University of California, San Diego) will explore the differences between the structures found in comics from America, Japan, Hong Kong, and various European countries, such as France and Sweden. Finally, Nimish Pratha (University of California, San Diego) will describe how sound effects differ across genres of American comics and Japanese manga. Together, these presentations show the benefits of a data-driven, scientific approach to studying comics.
Friday July 22, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 26AB
Superstar creator and comic book legend Grant Morrison (18 Days, Avatarex) and leading Indian superhero creator and Graphic India co-founder Sharad Devarajan (Chakra The Invincible, Shadow Tiger) engage in a one-on-one session about globalization, east meets west, the new diversity and culture in comics, and the birth of Indian superheroes. Graphic India will also unveil new exciting projects coming out soon.
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Comics are capable of anything, if you give them a chance. Joe Harris and Kelly Fitzpatrick are creating near-future sci-fi in Snowfall,Chris Burnham showed us a vision of hellish horror in Nameless, and Steven Seagle and Jason Adam Katzenstein brought us an all-ages monster-themed coming-of-age tale in Camp Midnight. They create new worlds that readers fall into and love forever, and they share their expertise here.
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Mattel designers Bill Benecke, Steve Redinger, and Jason Langston, Four Horsemen Studios principles Jim Preziosi, Eric Treadaway, and Eric "Cornboy" Mayse, and Warner Bros. VP of global toys Julian Montoya discuss the design and creation of DC Comics Multiverse collector figures. Moderated by Daniel Pickett (Action Figure Insider).
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
UPDATED: Tue, Jul 19, 06:44PM From life as a trashman to life as a Michael Jackson impersonator -- there's no topic graphic novels can't cover. But how do creators shape their ideas into narratives that thrill and chill? Derf Backderf, Keith Knight, Sydney Padua and Ron Wimberly talk about their craft with PR's senior news editor Calvin Reid and an all-star line-up.
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Get the latest info on all the new books and comics set in a galaxy far, far away! Authors, artists, and editors from Del Rey, Disney-Lucasfilm Press, Marvel, and others discuss their upcoming stories and the future of Star Wars publishing. Moderated by Lucasfilm's Michael Siglain.
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 7AB
Frank Mastromauro (publisher), Peter Steigerwald (co-owner), Vince Hernandez (vp/editor-in-chief), Mark Roslan (vp/director of design and production), Siya Oum (Lola XOXO), J.T. Krul (Aspen Universe: Revelations), Joshua Hale Fialkov (Aspen Universe: Revelations), Paolo Pantalena (Jirni), and Aspen creators will discuss upcoming titles and reveal projects for 2016 and beyond. The Aspen team will partake in a Q&A session with fans. All panel attendees will receive a gift courtesy of Aspen Comics.
What is it about the tales of villainy that keep us interested and coming back for more? The DC Villains are in the spotlight as the creative teams behind Harley Quinn and Suicide Squad (Amanda Conner, Chad Hardin, Jim Lee, Jimmy Palmiotti, Philip Tan, and Rob Williams) are front and center. Come get a glimpse on how they make evil look so good!
Friday July 22, 2016 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Room 6DE
Learn how to digitally ink and take all your black-and-white artwork to the next level. Comics artist Brian Haberlin will delve into Photoshop's treasure trove of features old and new, as well as other programs like Manga Studio, that not only enhance comic applications but also make possible countless creative pen and ink opportunities rarely seen before.
Few anthologies have done as well a job of capturing modern cartooning and visual storytelling than the Kramer's Ergot series, edited and compiled by Sammy Harkham. Learn about the history behind the series, the process of wrangling over 15 artists, and the importance of anthologies in the comics medium, with contributors Johnny Ryan, John Pham, Matt Groening, and Steven Weissman.
Friday July 22, 2016 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
In January, BOOM! Studios launched Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, a new comic series based on Saban Brands' hit '90s live-action children's TV series about a group of ordinary teenagers who "morphed" into superheroes to save the world from evil. Series writer Kyle Higgins, cover artist Goñi Montes, The Ongoing Adventures of Bulk and Skull writer Steve Orlando, editor Dafna Pleban, Saban Brands director of development and production Melissa Flores, and Saban Brands director of global consumer products Jason Bischoff talk about the series, the spinoff Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Pink, and the everlasting popularity of these "teenagers with attitude." Moderated by stunt performer and actor, long-time Power Rangers superfan, and Blue Ranger on the current season of Power Rangers Dino Super Charge, Yoshi Sudarso. Plus everyone in attendance will receive a free Power Rangers item!
Friday July 22, 2016 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 5AB
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 18, 12:16PM They traveled through time and space to save planet Earth and now the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles return home! Executive producers Ciro Nieli and Brandon Auman share sneak peeks at the epic adventures and new characters that await the turtles when they return to the streets of New York. On hand will be the extraordinary voice actors of theTMNT world:Sean Astin (Raphael), Rob Paulsen (Donatello), Greg Cipes (Michelangelo), Mae Whitman (April O'Neil), Eric Bauza (Tiger Claw) and Gwendoline Yeo (Shinigami). But that's not all: Witness the world premiere of two never-before-seen TMNT animated shorts presented by TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman. Moderated by Andre Meadows (Black Nerd Comedy). Booyakabunga!
Friday July 22, 2016 11:45am - 12:45pm PDT
Room 6A
Cliff Curtis, Kim Dickens, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Lorenzo James Henrie, Mercedes Mason, and Colman Domingo join executive producer and showrunner Dave Erickson, executive producer Robert Kirkman, executive producer Gale Anne Hurd, executive producer Dave Alpert, and special effects makeup supervisor and executive producer Greg Nicotero in a panel moderated by Chris Hardwick (The Nerdist, Talking Dead). The panel will discuss where the series left off in May's finale and what to look forward to when it picks up in August. Join the panelists for a Q&A session and an official sneak preview of the second half of season 2.
It's the second coming! Their first book,God Is Disappointed in You, was an irreverent yet faithful adaptation of the Bible that got everyone talking. Now, Mark Russell (Prez,The Flintstones) and Shannon Wheeler (The New Yorker,Too Much Coffee Man) are back with a follow-up book, Apocrypha Now, about the stories that didn't make it into the Bible. Some of these stories were forgotten, some were suppressed, others were just too freaking weird for the Bible (and that's saying something). Join these two holy heathens for a funny and fascinating tour of what the Bible didn't tell you.
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Mike Mignola returns after the finale of his iconic creation Hellboy, star of comics, movies, and animation. Ask Mike and Chris Roberson (Hellboy and the BPRD 1953, Witchfinder) about the Mignolaverse in this casual Q&A on what's in store for the future of the Mignolaverse!
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Evil Dead fans rejoice. The Ash vs Deadites adventures you want are being published by Space Goat. This visual presentation and lively discussion with Space Goat staff Dave Olbrich,Tom Mason, and Jacob Bascle will feature exclusive sneak peeks into the future ofEvil Dead 2 comics. Also meet the team behind award-winning Monster ElementaryNicholas Doan and Gwendolyn Dreyer, Space Goat's newest all-ages graphic novel. Surprise guests! All things Space Goat Publishing, prepared just for you! Certified groovy!
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Chester Brown (Paying for It, Louis Riel) is one of the most successful and iconoclastic cartoonists working today. Mary Wept Over the Feet of Jesus continues his thoughts on sex work by retelling nine stories from Hebrew scriptures and the Christian New Testament. It is a New York Times bestseller that has received widespread critical acclaim. Brown will read from Mary Wept and Heidi MacDonald (The Beat, Publishers Weekly) will moderate a Q&A.
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 11, 09:41AM 'The British are coming! The British are coming!'? Hardly - they've already arrived... and they've been the driving force of the comics scene for decades! In the 30th Anniversary year of the release of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons's Watchmen, moderator Leonard Sultana (An Englishman In San Diego) talks to Paul Levitz (former DC Comics president) and a panel of special guests - including Kieron Gillen (The Wicked + The Divine), David Lloyd (V For Vendetta), Dave Gibbons (Watchmen, via Skype) and Paul Jenkins (Hellblazer, via Skype) - talk about the recruitment of U.K. creative talent in the late-70s / mid-80s, the key titles of the period and their lasting impact on the comics landscape to this day.
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
Arguing that the visual narrative nature of comics requires recognizing and understanding the function of pictures in the medium, R. C. Harvey (Perpendicular Pronoun Press) shows how words and pictures function to create the unique narrative form that is comics. Derek Heid (Temecula Valley High School) demonstrates how Matt Fraction's Eisner Award-winning Hawkeye story, "Pizza Is My Business," makes heavy use of symbol and abstract storytelling techniques to communicate the thought processes of a dog and can be used to teach students, specifically at the high school level, higher-order analysis of literature and literary technique. Samantha Jakobeit-Meaux (Georgia State University) examines Bec Doux et ses amis, a dual language Cajun French and English comic strip with Kevin Meaux (Georgia State University), the son of the strip's illustrator Ken Meaux, to show how the strip subverts the established language/power dynamics of Louisiana speaking communities through the use of text placement, caricature, and trickster figures.
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 20, 08:33AM With the effects of Civil War II being felt across the Marvel Universe, how will our heroes pick up the pieces and move on? Find out what’s in store for Marvel NOW! this fall with Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso and Director of Content & Character Development Sana Amanat, as well as Jason Aaron (Mighty Thor), Reilly Brown (Slapstick), Ryan North (Unbeatable Squirrel Girl), Humberto Ramos (Champions), David Walker (Nighthawk), Jim Zub (Thunderbolts), and other Mighty Marvel Guests!
Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 5AB
The greatest newspaper strip of all time? Some would call it that. Even if you aren't one of them, you've gotta love the wit and whimsy of Walt Kelly's magnum opus, Pogo, now receiving its first-ever complete reprinting in an Eisner Award-winning series from Fantagraphics Books. Remember this great artist with comics historian Maggie Thompson (Comics Buyer's Guide), film critic Leonard Maltin, historian Michael Barrier, cartoonist Scott Shaw!,Eric Reynolds (co-editor of the Complete Pogo series), and moderator Mark Evanier (Groo the Wanderer).
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 18, 12:38PM Creative teams will display art and video clips from upcoming digital and print graphic novel projects: William Shatner's War Chronicles cinematic graphic novel movie, Stan Lee's God Woke,Mariano Nicieza's Phazer Universe, and Tim Walsh's A Daze Work. Moderated by Jenna Busch, with Gary Laird and Scott Liggett.
Friday July 22, 2016 12:45pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room 6BCF
Comics have an incredible but still largely untapped potential to both educate and edify. Meet some of the people who are trying to change that. Leigh Willis (behavioral scientist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Rebecca Thompson (Spectra the Laser Superhero), Tom Nugent (director of neurotechnology, new media, and training solutions at Intific), and Josh Elder (executive director of Reading With Pictures) will discuss their experiences in creating comics to address serious, real-world issues like mental health, disease prevention, STEM education, social change and more. Learn what they're doing and learn how you can be part of the global Comics for Impact movement!
Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
It is no secret that Dynamite Entertainment has published some of the most iconic female characters in comics, from Vampirella to Red Sonja to the Warlord of Mars herself. Now, as the industry reaches a turning point in both creative and readership, the publisher brings together some of the brightest stars in comics to discuss the changing role of women on and off the page! Join comics superstars for a continuation of one of the most important discussions happening in the industry today.
More than any other industry, comics provide a unique opportunity for fans to become professionals and to work on the very things they loved as fans. Dinesh Shamdasani (Valiant), J. C. Vaughn (The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide), Melissa Bowersox (Geppi's Entertainment Museum), Michael Polis (Captain Action), and Dan Braun (Creepy, Eerie) discuss and explore their "legacy" professional adventures on their fanboy and fangirl passions! Moderated by Ed Catto (Captain Action).
Terry Nantier (CEO, Papercutz), Ed Massesa (acquisitions manager, Graphix, Scholastic Book Fairs), Susan Van Metre (editor-in-chief, Abrams), and Mark Siegel (editorial director, First Second Books, Macmillan) predict the future of children's comics and graphic novels and their aspirations for the next 10 years. Moderated by Candice Mack (senior librarian, LA Public Library).
Do you have what it takes to be the next pop culture startup success? Pitch your best 90-second business plan and you might spark the interest you need from investors, media, and fans to take your idea to the next level. Or come to watch aspiring entrepreneurs learn from the best. Judges Ted Adams (founder/CEO, IDW Entertainment), Suzy Ryoo (venture partner/VP technology, Atom Factory), David Steinberger (co-founder, comiXology), and Maureen Fan (founder/CEO, Baobab Studios VR) will offer feedback, coaching, and special prizes. Rob Salkowitz (Forbes) moderates.
Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Before the comics, pulp magazines were the most popular and bestselling printed periodicals on the newsstands. Featuring genres ranging from westerns to heroic adventure to science fiction, the pulp magazines paved the way for the comics, providing much of the social, narrative, artistic, and financial groundwork, which inspired the nascent industry and helped it flourish into the popular culture phenomena it is today. This panel discusses the connections between the pulps and comics, from the creators who worked in both mediums to the direct lineage between the heroes of the pulps and their successors, so popular in today’s comics and films. Join Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson (Lost Hero: The Adventurous and Tragic Life of the Man Who Invented Comic Books), Harry Donenfeld,Brad Ricca (Super Boys: The Amazing Adventures of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster-the Creators of Superman), Michael Uslan (The Dark Knight trilogy) and Nathan Vernon Madison (Anti-Foreign Imagery in American Pulps and Comic Books) for this investigation into the birth of the comic book. Gerard Jones (Men of Tomorrow: Geeks, Gangsters, and the Birth of the Comic Book) moderates.
Friday July 22, 2016 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
In 2015, Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Berkeley Breathed began (without warning!) producing all-new Bloom County strips, for the first time in more than 25 years! Join Berkeley for one of his infamous presentations, focusing on what it's like to be the last strip cartoonist standing! Presentation followed by Q&A.
A celebration of all the 4-color Star Trek worlds, featuring a look at all past iterations and a chat with many who've chronicled the Enterprise crews' comic book adventures, including Len Wein, Scott Tipton, Mike Johnson, John Van Citters and J. K. Woodward. Moderated by Star Trek editor/supreme commander Sarah Gaydos.
The Man of Steel is one of the most recognized pop culture icons of all time, and thanks to DC Rebirth, Superman is set to soar to new heights, Learn what makes The Last Son of Krypton the hero that he is with the DC writers and artists, including Pat Gleason, Dan Jurgens, Tyler Kirkham, Peter Tomasi, and others who bring him to life in the comics.
Black Dog: The Dreams of Paul Nash is a new graphic novel published by Dark Horse and Les Humanoids in October and is a commission from the Imperial War Museum, the 14-18NOW Foundation and the Lakes International Comic Art Festival in the UK. It's one of 26 original artworks (and the only comics project) commissioned in every medium to commemorate the anniversary of the First World War. Paul Nash was a war artist and modernist who transformed his experience at Ypres into iconic landscape paintings, turning trees into bones and muddy battlefields into flesh. This book is part biography, part war memoir, and part exploration of the transformative nature of the trauma of war told as a series of dreams. The book was premiered in Jendal and Amiens with a live, hour-long performance work of original music, projects, and dramatic scenes; performed by Dave McKean (piano/voice), internationally renowned soloist Matthew Sharp (cello/voice), and Clare Haythornthwaite (violin/voice).
Comic creators Nathan Hale (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales series), Stuart Moore (Egos, Zodiac Legacy), Gene Luen Yang (Secret Coders, Boxers & Saints), and Ru Xu (NewsPrints, Saint for Rent) explain their process, demystifying comics creation for librarians. Moderated by Jack Baur (supervising librarian, Berkeley Public Library).
Once a staple of the Golden Age, romance comics have faded into the background in recent years, but now they're making a comeback and tackling a wider variety of love stories than ever before! Carrie Sessarego (Smart Bitches, Trashy Books), Janelle Asselin (Rosy Press publisher), Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex, Fresh Romance), Thom Zahler (Love and Capes, Long Distance), and Cecil Castellucci (Shade the Changing Girl, The Plain Janes) discuss both classic and new romance comics, some of comics' most enduring love stories, and the challenges and joys unique to creating romantic stories in comics!
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
For the past 14 years, Ronald Wimberly has been telling stories that pair his world view with his strong storytelling instincts, resulting in works like the Eisner Award-nominated Lighten Up and The Prince of Cats, his collaborations with brands like Nike and Mishka, and even designing for animation like Black Dynamite. Wimberly will share his perspective on designing stories, agitprop and the politics of aesthetics, culture and appropriation, the importance of iconoclasm and why he suspects he'll never work for Marvel or DC again. Moderated by David Brothers.
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 08, 11:33AM Imagine if hitting puberty brought on more than acne and burgeoning awkward feelings. What if it brought on super powers too? Teen superheroes are always fan-favorites due their relatability; maybe the audience can't understand what it is like to have super speed, but everyone knows what growing pains feel like. Hear firsthand from the creators who navigate the world of hormones and super powers with panelists Kieron Gillen (Young Avengers), Marjorie Liu (Monstress), SanaTakeda (Monstress), Jamie McKelvie (Young Avengers), Noelle Stevenson (Runaways), Babs Tarr (Batgirl), and G. Willow Wilson (Ms. Marvel), with moderator Jessica Tseang (comics historian).
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 11, 09:07AM Uncle three (best-selling author, original story and writer of Time Raiders), Huang Shan (cosplay icon from China) and Liu Peiyao (vice president of Le Vision Pictures) will discuss how the “ACGN” phenomenon is driving Chinese pop culture and how Chinese industry leaders create entertainment to inspire the super fan lifestyle and how Chinese comic content to “Go Global”. Moderated by Joe Wong (Chinese American comedian).
The eyes of the pop culture world are on the transgender community as more and more comics, television shows, and movies feature trans characters, trans creators, and their stories. How do trans characters affect narratives in popular genres? How can trans creators, artists, and actors best make their mark on popular arts? What are the next steps for trans representation from comic books to Hollywood? Join Prism Comics and moderator Tara Madison Avery (Gooch, Stacked Deck Press) for a lively discussion of these and other topics with panelists Julie Rei Goldstein (Time Traveling Bong), Mikki del Monico (Alto), Shadi Petosky (Danger & Eggs), Bishakh Som (The Other Side: A Queer Paranormal Romance Anthology), Kylie Wu (Trans Girl Next Door), and Billy White Acre (composer, musician).
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
You love comic books, right? Do you love them enough to start your own comics company? Come hear what it takes to make it in comics from publishers who have paved their own path. Trail-blazing comics professionals David Steinberger (comiXology CEO and co-founder), Ross Richie (founder and CEO BOOM! Studios), Dinesh Shamdasani (Valiant entertainment CEO and chief creative officer), Mike Marts (editor-in-chief, AfterShock Comics), Alvin Liu (publisher, Kodansha Advanced Media), Jimmy Palmiotti (co-founder Paperfilms), Joe Glass (Principal, Queer Comix), and Hope Nicholson (publisher, Bedside Press) are primed and ready to give you the info you need to break in and stay in the comics biz.
The Tick first appeared in print 30 years ago. Creator Ben Edlund explores The Tick's history (and future) in a multimedia Event-o-Happening with surprise panelists, mystifying giveaways, and a revealing inside look at The Tick's next big thing!
Terry Moore (creator, Rachel Rising, Echo, Strangers in Paradise) discusses the conclusion of his latest hit series, Rachel Rising,and what he has planned for the rest of 2016 and beyond. Don't miss this first glimpse of what is up next for this Eisner Award-winning indie creator! As always, Terry's Q&A is not to be missed!
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
With the shifting landscape of the comics industry, this is your invaluable guide to breaking into the comics industry-what it takes, whose attention you're vying for, and how to get it in a productive way, but most important, what you have to do to get up to speed and ready for the big show. Comics Experience founder and publisher Andy Schmidt is joined by Dave Marshall (Dark Horse, EIC), Rickey Purdin (Marvel talent manager), and artist Reilly Brown (Deadpool).
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 30CDE
Comics literature has become the voice and visuals for our changing generation, and Dark Horse Originals has it all-from underwater mystery in Jonathan Case's Dear Creature to the surrealist return of Dave McKean inThe Dreams of Paul Nash. Dave McKean (Cages), Fábio Moon and Gabriel Bá (Two Brothers), Peter Hogan (Resident Alien), Cullen Bunn (Harrow County), and Jonathan Case (Dear Creature) discuss pushing the boundaries of what comics can accomplish in literature.
The members of the Justice League take center stage as the DC Rebirth talent behind Aquaman (Brad Walker), Cyborg (John Semper), Flash (Joshua Williamson), and Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps (Robert Venditti) provide the stories behind your favorite characters and give them the justice they're due!
Learn from illustrators who work on movies and TV shows for DC Comics and Marvel, including Andrea Depaso, (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2, Jungle Book), Warren Drummond (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Straight Outta Compton), David E. Duncan (Spiderman: Homecoming, Iron Man 2), Ed Natividad (Justice League, Suicide Squad). Moderated by Tim Burgard (Independence Day: Resurgence, Jurassic World).
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. executive producer and head of Marvel Television Jeph Loeb and cast members Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Henry Simmons, Elizabeth Henstridge, and Iain De Caestecker, co-creators and executive producers Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen, and executive producer Jeff Bell share the secrets, lies, and dangers of making season 3! See exclusive footage and surprise moments, and be the first to learn what's in store for season 4! The action-packed series from Marvel Television returns this fall, only on ABC.
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Ballroom 20
Ladies unite to create more female-driven content! Accomplished female creators discuss how to cultivate your ideas and bring them to life, conquer hurdles, and create the best project you can! Leave with inspiration, confidence, a solid plan of action, and tons of new ideas. All genders and ages welcome! Panelists include Heidi Cox (Stalking LeVar), Jenny Lorenzo (Buzzfeed, Geekgasm), Paula Rhodes (New Adventures of Peter & Wendy), Helenna Santos (Ms In The Biz, At Your Own Risk), Stephanie Thorpe (The Ladies & The Gents, Elf Quest), Kristen Nedopak (The Geekie Awards), and Camille Falciola (Remain Calm). Moderated by Stephanie Pressman (Fashionably Nerdy, Stalking LeVar).
Before there was Marvel Comics, there was Timely Comics. Artist Allen Bellman was there, and now you can not only listen to his amazing stories and the history of Timely Comics but also participate in a fantastic Q&A. A short signing will follow.
Authors in the horror and thriller genres are more than just talented writers. They have to be masters of psychology, understanding what makes us most terrified and portraying worlds and scenarios that strike at the very core of our deepest and darkest fears. Del Howison of Dark Delicacies probes the twisted minds of Paul Tremblay (Disappearance at Devil's Rock), Amy Lukavics (Daughters unto Devils), Paula Treick Deboard (The Drowning Girls), Tosca Lee (Progeny), Thomas Olde Heuvelt (HEX), and Jonathan Maberry (Rot & Ruin) as they discuss the best ways to scare you.
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
Younger readers are one of the fastest-growing comics audiences, so which books are bringing in these readers? This panel takes a look at trends in the kids' graphic novel category with top industry experts Charles Kochman (Abrams ComicArts), Filip Sablik (BOOM! Studios), and other decision makers. Moderated by Brigid Alverson (Robot 6).
A flourishing comics business means there's demand for more comic book specialty shops, especially in under-served areas. If you've ever dreamed of owning your own comic shop, then this ComicsPRO-sponsored event is for you! You've got questions and these veteran retailers have the answers! ComicsPRO director, Free Comic Book Day founder and panel host Joe Field (Flying Colors Comics, Concord CA) is joined by retailer Perry Plush (Zanadu Comics, Seattle WA), retailer KellyAllen (Comic Quest, Lake Forest CA), Diamond Comic Distributors VP Chris Powell and other comics retailing professionals.
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Learn more about becoming a distributed small-press publisher in the comic book industry and receive advice on how best to position your project and company for mass distribution through Diamond Comic Distributors. Jay Spence (submissions coordinator for Diamond Comics) and Trevor Richardson (brand manager) will explain the submission process and give advice on what a new publisher needs to know before, during, and after they submit their project.
Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 09:47AM Get in all of your questions in this frank and forthcoming panel with literary agents Holly Root (Waxman Leavell Literary Agency), Jane Putch (Eyebait Management) and television/literary agent Brandy Rivers (ICM Partners). They will take your questions and discuss the wild world of manuscript querying, the role of agents in the publication and television/film rights process, and more! No pitches, please.
Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
Trina Robbins (Pretty in Ink), Mary Fleener (Twisted Sister Comics), Anina Bennett (Heartbreakers), and MariNaomi (Turning Japanese)-women of four generations-discuss surprising and often unknown contributions by women in comics from early history, WWII, and underground to trends today. Moderated by Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson (The Major Loomed Like a Superman).
This panel will kick off the premiere of Jim Davis's new book The Art of Garfield. It will begin with a video presentation chronicling the birth and development of Garfield. Jim Davis will talk about the creation, history, and art of his famous cat. R. C. Harvey (The Art of the Funnies,author of the introduction to The Art of Garfield) and Daniel Herman (publisher, Hermes Press, Silver Age: the Second Generation of Comic Artists) will then join in and talk about the art of everything Garfield. This will be Davis's first appearance at Comic-Con! The panel will end with a Q&A session.
Joss Whedon has rewarded fans the world over with some of the most compelling characters and plot lines in the history of comics, television, and movies. Here's your chance to find out what he has in store next and get exclusive insight into Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Serenity, and much, much more!
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 12:03PM From secret hero societies to mystery-solving kids, graphic novels prove that a picture's worth a thousand words. Artists Kate Beaton, Raina Telgemeier, Dustin Nyugen, Derek Fridolfs, Mike Wu, Greg Grunberg, and Lucas Turnbloom discuss the creation of their new work.
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Cosplay By McCall's, the leading brand of sewing patterns created for and in collaboration with cosplayers and cosmakers, and The Overstreet Guide to Cosplay engage in a thought-provoking, insider's look at this flourishing and increasingly influential expression of fandom. Moderator Ed Catto (Bonfire Agency) is joined by Kathy Wiktor (Cosplay by McCall's), Carrie Wood (Overstreet Guide), Gillian Conahan (Cosplay by McCall's Blog), Mark Huesman (Overstreet Guide), Kelly Cerone (Anachronism in Action), and Eddie Newsome (Overstreet Guide) to talk about the creators, genres, and trends driving growth of cosplay in terms of participation, relevance, and creativity.
The iPad has transformed the way you read comics, but did you know you can create comic art on an iPad too? See a comic book character come to life as Hi-Fi's Brian Miller (Doctor Who) and Kristy Miller (SpongeBob Comics) demonstrate step-by-step how to pencil, ink, and color comics on the iPad. Learn the basic tools and techniques, including which apps and stylus pens work best and how you too can transform your iPad into a portable art studio. A Q&A session will be included.
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 30CDE
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 12:02PM Come experience the latest from IDW! Artists Gabriel Rodriguez and David Messina, writers Christos Gage, Arvind Ethan David and Paul Cornell, editor Sarah Gaydos, and some surprise guests detail current plans, awesome futuristic plans, and much more. Co-moderated by the two-headed monster that is Dirk Wood and Chris Ryall! Prizes, announcements, and Q&A.
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 15, 10:21AM Long before the rescuing of Mark Watney became a cultural phenom, Mars and martians had captured the imagination of comic book and science fiction authors. For almost a century and a half, fictional visits to the red planet have been made by humans like John Carter and superhumans like Superman, Dr. Manhattan, and Dr. McNinja. Some, like the Martian Manhunter (J'onn J'onzz) even call the fourth planet home. In this panel, Marshall Smith (Deputy Director, Cross-Program Systems Integration, ESD at NASA), Joseph Cassady (executive director, Space at Aerojet Rocketdyne), Grant Anderson (president & CEO at Paragon Space Development Corporation), William D. Pratt (Program Manager, Lockheed Martin's Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP)), Patrick O'Neill (Marketing & Communications Manager at Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS)), Matthew Duggan (Space Systems Manager, Boeing Company), Rebekah Sosland Siegfriedt (Systems Engineer, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory), and moderator Steve Broback (cofounder, Dent the Future) discuss the latest developments in the commercial and government partnership driving the 2035 mission to Mars.
Author Mike Barrier (Funnybooks: The Improbable Glories of the Best American Comic Books)will talk about the challenges and rewards of pursuing an interest in comic books that bypasses superheroes in favor of artists like Carl Barks, Walt Kelly, and John Stanley. Randy Duncan (author of The Power of Comics: History, Form and Culture) will moderate, with PowerPoint visuals.
In the U.S., young people (ages 16-24 years) are significantly affected by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). Storytelling through comic books has been shown to be a useful method for HIV/STI education and prevention. The increasing popularity of comics-related media and advances in computerized graphics have created new ways of using comics to reach youth with HIV/STI information. Come and learn how scientists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Leigh Willis (behavioral scientist), Rachel Kachur (health scientist), Ted Castellanos (public health advisor), John Brooks (senior medical adviser), and from Terminus Media Mark Stancil (CEO). Artists Joe Phillips and Lexington Wolfcraft worked to create an HIV/STI focused motion comic that improves knowledge about, and reduces stigma around, HIV and STI, and encourages healthy behaviors by young people. Attendees will learn how audience feedback, behavioral research, and cutting-edge production methods were used to create the storyline and the look, sound, and feel of this motion comic. The first episode of the series will be debuted. Panelists will also provide information on how the public can access the full motion comic series and future plans for the series.
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
It's a web series revolution! Come hang out with Jeff Burns (host of Super Geeked Up) and some of the most accomplished web series actors and creators working today as they talk about the ever expanding and changing world of online entertainment and where they see it headed in the future. Featuring Eric C. Campbell (Signal Boost, The Flog), Jenni Powell (The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, The New Adventures of Peter and Wendy), Sam Miller (Mom, LA Beer), Heidi Cox (Dweeb Darlings, Stalking LeVar), and Christina Wren (Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Specimen). Plus get awesome tips on how to make your own kick-ass series and actually get people to see it!
Never before has DC Entertainment been more popular in TV, video games, home videos, and movie theaters. And with an impressive film slate and countless shows in series and production, it has never been a better time to be a DC fan! The people behind the scenes who translate the page to the screen show how your favorite stories and characters come to life!
Jim Lee will demonstrate the drawing techniques he uses when creating artwork for comic books. He will answer questions from the audience and share advice.
If you're a writer or artist attending the Comic Creator Connection, this is your chance to practice giving your pitch before the networking event and get some free coaching from a pro. So what's a pitch? A pitch is simply the way you present yourself or your project to others. It is usually a brief speech designed to persuade and interest your listener in what you're doing or what you've made. Most creators have no trouble coming up with fantastic ideas for new comics, but they often struggle to talk clearly and concisely about those ideas to other people. Giving a good pitch is a vital skill you must have to bring your project to life. Fortunately, it's also a skill you can learn and improve with practice-and Pitch Review is a great place to do that. Pitch Reviews will be conducted by Douglas Neff, an experienced presentation coach and professional public speaker who hosts the Comic Creator Connection and From Fan to Creator: Goal-Setting for Creative Types. This is not a panel. Instead, these are 3- to 5-minute individual coaching sessions for as many people as can be accommodated in the scheduled time. Everyone is welcome. Please note that showing up is not a guarantee that you'll get a review session. Spaces are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 04:51PM After a few years of fading fortunes, manga publishing is catching its second wind. More manga and light novels are hitting the shelves in bookstores and comic shops, and more titles than ever are available in digital formats the same day/date as in Japan. So have things truly turned around for Japanese comics in North America? Get a taste of what's hot, what's not, and what's next for manga in North America and Japan from top publishing pros, including Kurt Hassler (publisher and managing director, Yen Press), Michael Gombos (director of international publishing and licensing, Dark Horse Comics), Ben Applegate (associate director, publisher services, Penguin Random House), Erik Ko (chief of operations, Udon Entertainment), Stu Levy (TOKYOPOP) and possibly a surprise guest or two! Moderated by Deb Aoki (Publishers Weekly, Anime News Network).
David Petersen's fan-favorite Mouse Guard series has been around for more than a decade, and publisher Archaia, an imprint of BOOM! Studios, is proud to be a part of its legacy! But what's next? Petersen and BOOM! assistant editor Cameron Chittock offer a behind-the-scenes look at the award-winning comics and games, including the recently released Mouse Guard: Art of Bricks, a peek at the forthcoming Mouse Guard Coloring Book,and more! Plus, comedian Hal Lublin (The Thrilling Adventure Hour) will be on hand for a live reading performance of a Mouse Guard short story!
Friday July 22, 2016 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
An insider's look at the overlapping worlds of comics and professional wrestling, including a historical retrospective and predictions for the future of wrestling comics. Featuring Lucha Underground superstar Chavo Guerrero (Chavo Guerrero's Warrior's Creed), WWE Hall-of-Famer Andre the Giant's daughter Robin Christensen-Roussimoff, and recordbreaking wrestling comics writer Mike Kingston (Headlocked). Hosted by Heidi MacDonald (Comics Beat).
Panelists get into the details of DC's Young Animal, a new imprint launching this fall from My Chemical Romance frontman and bestselling comic writer Gerard Way (Doom Patrol), with many of his topnotch collaborators, including Cecil Castellucci (Shade, The Changing Girl), Jon Rivera (Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye), and others.
Television's only Zom-Com-Rom-Dram, returns for its third appearance at Comic-Con. After experiencing the heart-pounding season 2 finale, be among the first to get the scoop on what's in store for season 3! Now that Clive is in the know about zombies, how will his dynamic with Liv change? With Ravi's cure robbing Blaine of his memories, what will Major decide to do with his borrowed time? Will Peyton continue her efforts to take down crime lord Mr. Boss? And will Vivian Stoll, new owner of Max Rager, succeed in making Seattle its zombie headquarters? See a special video presentation followed by a panel with series stars as well as executive producers Rob Thomas (Veronica Mars) and Diane Ruggiero-Wright (Veronica Mars). From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Spondoolie Productions and Warner Bros. Television and based on characters created by Chris Roberson and Michael Allred for Vertigo from DC Entertainment, iZOMBIE returns midseason with all-new episodes on The CW. iZOMBIE: The Complete Second Seasonwill be released on Blu-ray and DVD on July 12.
Friday July 22, 2016 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Ballroom 20
Sense8 fans! This is the only SDCC panel where one of the creator/writer/producers of the Netflix series will be appearing to answer your questions. For everyone else: each year, Straczynski (writer for Thor, Superman Earth One, World War Z and other projects) brings announcements to SDCC, and this year is no exception, but the announcements this time are especially big. Be there for news that's going to blow up the Internet.
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 18, 01:38PM Every hero has an origin story, the defining moment where they thrust themselves to greatness. So do the comics industry's best and brightest! Comics luminaries and tastemakers David Steinberger (comiXology CEO and co-founder), Bobbie Chase (DC VP talent development), Denis Kitchen (cartoonist/publisher/agent, The Best of Comix Book), Derf Backderf (cartoonist, Trashed, My Friend Dahmer), and Ed Luce (cartoonist, Wuvable Oaf) offer a look at the extraordinary events that transformed them from comics fan to comic industry heroes!
Exploding Kittens and The Oatmeal (Matthew Inman) have a panel! Wherein talking, cavorting, scribbling, gyrating, ridiculing, sneak peeking, signing, head-desking, reveling, responding, and much hooplah will transpire.
Friday July 22, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Paul Gulacy (The Rook) discusses his 40-plus years in the comics industry with moderator Steve Mattsson (Superboy & the Ravers). Hear about Paul's work on classic characters like Shang Chi, Sabre, Batman, James Bond, Sci-Spy, Catwoman, and G.I. Joe. See behind-the-scenes examples of Paul's technique: layouts, pencils, inks, fully rendered colors, and painting.
Max Allan Collins (Mike Hammer), co-founder of the IAMTW, hosts this year's Scribe Awards for excellence in tie-in writing, including honoring this year's Grandmaster Award "Faust" winner, Timothy Zahn (Star Wars). Panelists Michael A. Black (Executioner), Adam Christopher (Elementary), Matt Forbeck (Halo), Glenn Hauman (Star Trek), Nancy Holder (Crimson Peak), R. L. King (Shadowrun), Jonathan Maberry (Wolfman), Andy Mangels (X-Files), Cavan Scott (Pathfinder), and Marv Wolfman (Batman) engage in a freewheeling look at one of the most popular and yet underappreciated branches of the writing trade.
Friday July 22, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
This panel addresses what new writers need to do once they have material ready to go out to the masses. The shifting 21st-century digital frontier means the age-old methods of building a career have been rendered irrelevant, and this group of Hollywood screenwriters and graphic novel creators share insider information, publishing secrets, and the professional realities on how to develop your ideas into a viable property and market yourself accordingly. Moderated by 2015 Disney/ABC Writing Program winner and 2014 Eisner Award nominee Brandon Easton (Marvel's Agent Carter, IDW's M.A.S.K.), the panel includes TV producern Geoffrey Thorne (Leverage, The Librarians), writer Erika Alexander (Concrete Park,Living Single), artist/writer Tony Puryear (Concrete Park, the Schwarzenegger film Eraser), and writer Brandon Thomas (Skybound's Horizon, Miranda Mercury).
Friday July 22, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Faith is the breakout superhero of the year. This stereotype-demolishing character from Valiant Entertainment has won critical acclaim, fan enthusiasm, and now, her own monthly series. But what makes her tick? Faith writer Jody Houser (Orphan Black, Mother Panic) takes a deep dive into this soaring hero's past, present, and future. Moderated by Vulture's Abraham Riesman (associate editor).
Friday July 22, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
As the demographics of the industry continue to change, this panel focuses on the impact of female fans (not female creators) and how they are changing comics from the ground up in surprising and positive ways. More than ever, their grassroots efforts can be seen everywhere from comic shops atond conventions, and from cosplay to social media. Panelists include Jamie Broadnax (Black Girl Nerds), Sam Maggs (Fangirl's Guide to the Galaxy), Rose Del Vecchio (Fanmail), and Constance Gibbs (Black Girls Nerds). Moderated by Ed Catto (Bonfire Agency).
Friday July 22, 2016 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
From the cutting-edge labs of the Smithsonian Institution to the front lines of the digital economy, the promises made in Star Trek are coming true. This panel gives a glimpse at real Trek technology: the tricorder that may change medicine, laser weapon technology, and an actual tractor beam. And fans will get a preview of the original Starship Enterprise, fully restored after 50 years and the centerpiece of the National Air and Space Museum. This panel will include exclusive preview clips from Smithsonian Channel's two-hour special Building Star Trek, which will air later this year. Dr. Margaret Weitekamp, curator at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, moderates a discussion with Dr. Sonny Kohli, team leader of Cloud DX, a finalist for the Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE; David Grier, professor of physics and director of the Center for Soft Matter Research at New York University, who is developing a real-life Tractor Beam; Dr. Rob Afzal, Lockheed Martin senior fellow Laser Sensor and Systems Harnessing the Power of Lasers; and Elizabeth Trojian, executive producer of Smithsonian Channel's Building Star Trek.
Executive producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg join comic book co-creator and series co-executive producer Garth Ennis and members of the cast including Dominic Cooper, Ruth Negga, Joseph Gilgun, Ian Colletti and Graham McTavish in a panel moderated by Kevin Smith, to discuss the first season of the hit series. Join the panelists for a live reading of the newest episode, airing Sunday, July 24 at 9pm on AMC, followed by a Q&A session.
Members of The Antidote Trust (TAT), America's #1 independent comic book cooperative, have been hard at work on new projects! Now they, and a few guests, want to share their secrets to indie 4-color success. Moderator Charlotte (Fullerton) McDuffie (writer, My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic,Ben 10: Alien Force/Ultimate Alien/Omnivers and chairperson, WGA Animation Writers Caucus) leads the discussion with Geoff Gerber (president, Lion Forge Comics), Hannibal Tabu (writer, Artifacts/Soulfire: Sourcebook #1/Waso/Project: Wildfire), Nilah Magruder (writer/artist, M.F.K., winner 2015 Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity), Eric Dean Seaton (creator, Legend of the Mantamaji trilogy; director, Legend of the Mantamaji: Live Action Short), Russell Nohelty (writer/creator, Ichabod Jones: Monster Hunter and Katrina Hates the Dead, publisher, Wannabe Press), and TAT co-founder Robert Roach (creator, Menthu, The Roach; storyboard artist, Insomnia; winner inaugural Glyph Award).
Friday July 22, 2016 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
NEW: Mon, Jul 11, 09:55AM Are you a writer with a great idea for a comic book series, but you can’t draw? Or maybe you’re an artist looking to illustrate an incredible story, but you can’t write. Perhaps you’re both looking for someone to collaborate with so you can jumpstart your careers in the comic book industry. At San Diego Comic-Con 2016’s Comic Creator Connection, you just might find each other! San Diego Comic-Con is proud to once again host the Comic Creator Connection, a fast-paced networking event that puts writers and artists together to help them meet new creative partners. Here’s how it works: in two 2-hour sessions—on Friday, July 22, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM and Sunday, July 24, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM—writers and artists will sit down across from each other at a table. (And by artists, we mean pencillers, inkers, colorists, etc. All are welcome!) Then, in 5-minute sessions, you will talk one-on-one with each other about your ideas and skills. At the end of each 5-minute period, you will get up and move on to the next person. If you’re interested in furthering the conversation, you’ll exchange contact information. Think of it as speed-dating, but for writers and artists! Sign ups are taken in advance for this event, but space may still be available on site.
Neville Howard (writer, Sugar and Space), Cristian Roux (creator, Falling Star), W. Chew Chan and Christopher Sequeira (artist/writer, The Exoneration of Doctor Fu Manchu), and Darren Koziol (publisher, Dark Oz comics) explore the renaissance of independent Australian creators using comics as a medium to tell unique and interesting stories. The panel will provide an overview of their projects and host a Q&A moderated by Alana Marshall (editor, Melbourne Comics).
Having trouble revving up your creativity engine? Creating worlds and characters can be a daunting idea. However, with the right tools and inspiration, the wonderful world of art, writing, and creativity becomes your oasis. Genese Davis (The Holder's Dominion), Rob Prior (HeavyMetal), Eric Kieron Davis (Star Citizen), and Jonathan Maberry (Rot and Ruin) divulge their experience creating worlds, telling rich stories, and seeing how gender and genre sometimes conflict or combine in interesting ways.
You're a comics writer, or you want to be. You're motivated and driven. Great. You're just like a thousand other would-be comics writers. So how do you stand above the rest? John Barber (Ultimate Spider-Man, Transformers) has written for several major publishers and edited for both Marvel and IDW. Between him and Andy Schmidt (X-Men, Guardians of the Galaxy), founder of Comics Experience, they've seen thousands of pitches and worked with dozens of editors. Together, they've created a top 10 list of things that the strongest writers do to stand above the crowd. They will give you all 10 in this jaw-dropping panel.
Friday July 22, 2016 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 30CDE
UPDATED: Thu, Jul 14, 11:19AM The 28th annual Eisner Awards (the “Oscars” of the comics industry) honor comics creators and works in 31 categories. With special guest host John Barrowman (Arrow, Torchwood), presenters will include actors Michael Trucco (Battlestar Galactica), Annie Wersching (Vampire Diaries, 24), Drew Roy (Falling Skies), and Chris Gorham (Covert Affairs, Once Upon a Time); Beau Smith and the cast of Wynona Earp; voice actor Phil Lamarr (Futurama); Hall of Fame nominees Lynda Barry and Matt Groening; beloved cartoonist Sergio Aragonés (Groo,MAD), and several nominated creators. Other prestigious awards to be given out include the Russ Manning Promising Newcomer Award, the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award, the Bill Finger Award for Excellence in Comics Writing, and the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award.
Hosted by the Christian Comic Arts Society in partnership with Geeky Guys for God, this annual mixer will include an epic quiz contest, with prizes to be awarded to the contestants who prove to be the geekiest. They will be presenting the world premiere of a full episode from the new Bibleman series. This is an opportunity for Christian fans and professionals to intermingle, socialize, and network. Meet professionals such as Pastor Frederick K. C. Price Jr. (Crenshaw Christian Center), Dan Lynch (publisher, B&H Kids/LifeWay Christian Resources), Scott A. Shuford (FrontGate Media), Eric Jansen (Foursqaure Mission Press), Brent and Erin Weidermann (Bible Belles), and other special guests.
Friday July 22, 2016 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
Delve into the demented history of the Dark Knight's arch nemesis, The Joker, as he sets out to prove insanity is only a horrifying moment away for anyone in the latest DC Universe Original Movie, Batman: The Killing Joke. Based on one of the bestselling graphic novels of all time, this R-rated, feature-length animated film brings together some of the key creative team behind Batman: The Animated Series with executive producer Bruce Timm (Justice League: Gods & Monsters) at the helm and Kevin Conroy (Justice League), and Mark Hamill (Star Wars) returning to their seminal roles as Batman and The Joker, respectively. Hear how the graphic novel transitioned to animated thriller, and then witness the world premiere of this highly anticipated film. Panelists include Tara Strong (Teen Titans, Batman: Arkham games) as Barbara Gordon/Batgirl and Ray Wise (Twin Peaks, RoboCop) as Commissioner James Gordon, as well as director Sam Liu (Batman: Year One, All-Star Superman) and Harvey and Eisner Award-winning writer Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Batman: Broken City). Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment, Batman: The Killing Joke arrives from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment July 26 on Digital HD and August 2 on Blu-ray Deluxe Edition, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD.
Friday July 22, 2016 9:00pm - 12:00am PDT
Ballroom 20
35 years ago saw the release of Heavy Metal, a film unlike any other that had come before: a psychedelic animated journey through the pages of the publication that defined a generation of comics fans and science fiction readers! Now we pay tribute to this legendary film with an exclusive live reading from the original script led by Metalocalypse co-creator Jon Schnepp and surprise guests, exclusive news on the new Heavy Metal film, and more! Join Schnepp along with co-CEO Jeff Krelitz and publicist Jeremy Atkins for a fitting tribute to the most metal animated film ever!
Friday July 22, 2016 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 15, 09:15AM Join the Super Geeked Up crew as they discuss your favorite sci-fi, fantasy, superhero, and video game topics and play fun geek-themed improv games like Geeky Accents, Universal Translator, and Let’s Geek It On! Plus a ton of audience participation and awesome prizes! Hosted by Jeff Burns with special co-host Christina Wren (Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Man of Steel) and special guests Rena Strober (Azura in Fire Emblem Fates) and Anna Brisbin (YouTube’s Brizzy Voices).And the world premiere of the trailer for sci-fi series Imperium from TJ Walker (Phoenix Run). Don’t miss this super-interactive award-winning show that will provide the zaniest fun you have at Comic-Con!
Friday July 22, 2016 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
Filmmakers Michael Fiore (producer and 2nd unit director, Sony Screen Gems' Keep Watching) and Erik Sharkey (director, Drew: The Man Behind the Poster)will show clips from their original feature-length documentary, announce upcoming release dates, and reunite animation's "troublemaker" Floyd Norman (legendary Disney animator and story artist) with many animators and producers he worked with over his storied 61-year career. Panelists will include notables featured in the documentary, including Don Hahn (producer, Maleficent), Gary Trousdale (co-director, Disney's animated Beauty and the Beast), Leonard Maltin (film critic and historian), Ken Mitchroney (writer, director, and story artist), Tom Sito (animator and professor of animation, USC), and Leo Sullivan (animator, producer, and publisher). The documentary also features interviews with Whoopi Goldberg (actress), Sergio Aragonés (cartoonist), Richard Sherman (Disney music composer), Scott Shaw! (cartoonist), and Ralph Guggenheim (former Pixar VP of animation). The documentary is supported with a wonderful jazz music score by Ryan Shore (composer, Disney's Penn Zero, WB's Scooby-Doo!, and The Oscars) and original animation by up-and-coming artist and animator Nirali Somaia. The filmmakers will moderate a Q&A session and give away exclusive SDCC miniposters designed for the documentary by legendary illustrator Drew Struzan.
