The new millennium has seen a resurgence of fantasy on the silver screen. Some of these films have been spectacular, and financially successful, but others have failed to bring the audiences studios might have expected. Are we at a crest on a roller coaster of quality, or is it a sign of more good fantasy to come? Join the geeks and our guests, fantasy/sf author Mel Odom and Medieval Literature professor Richard Scott Nokes, as we discuss our favorite fantasy films.
I went to see this film, as was true of many SF films I saw as a lad, with my father. My dad enjoyed it, but this film solidified my place as a William Shatner fan. As I will say to anyone who will tolerate me long enough to listen, "I am not a Star Trek fan, I am a Shatner fan!" I have read all of his novels, own both his cds, and will wax poetic on the virtues of TJ Hooker. I know that there are many actors out there who are "better" at their craft than Shatner, but no one has entertained me so consistently.
If you don't like this movie...you are not a geek. KHAN!
When my father took me to see this movie, I was expecting Han Solo in action. I was bored to tears. The weird soundtrack, the slow pace, the moodiness. Yawn. What can I say? I was eleven years old! It wasn't until I watched this film again when they first released it on video that I came to see the folly of my youthful analysis of the film. I have come to think of this film as one of the best SF films made to date.
As I mentioned during the most recent episode of my online radio show (the DVD extras episode), I am particularly fond of the theatrical release. I understand that it is "interesting" to think about the ramifications of Deckard as replicant, but I find leaving Deckard human to be more compelling. If Deckard is a replicant, then his "sacrifice" at the end of the movie is meaningless (though the allowed escape retains meaning). A replicant fleeing oppression to save another replicant, that's realistic but not heroic because there is no real sacrifice or overcoming of cultural biases. If Deckard is human, on the other hand, the sacrifice of a human abandoning his own society for the love of the "other" has a great deal of resonance with me. That is a moral message worth sharing.
Just my two cents. All versions of this film are great, I just prefer the theatrical.
This is really two movies for me. The first half, the creepy Tobe Hooperesque half, is amazing. As an 11-year-old, the scene where the guy is pulling off his face was really disturbing. I liked the classic ghost tale parts of this film. When the film suddenly became a special effects extravaganza, I was lost. "What happened? Why does this look so much like Close Encounters of the Third Kind all of a sudden?"
I still like the overall effect of telling a ghost story in suburbia rather than in a Lovecraftian Gothic mansion. Those parts of the film really work. I am still afraid of clown dolls.
Remember when I wrote that Free Enterprise was the "greatest geek film ever?" No? Look at the top of the page. I was wrong. Tron is without a doubt the greatest geek film ever. I adore this story of a game designer who gets sucked into the world of computer programs. This film is so before its time, it is ridiculous. William Gibson may have invented the term "cyberpunk," but whenever I visualized the virtual reality within his books I was visualizing Tron. Where else could you see accounting programs being forced into deadly gladiatorial games? The representation of the interconnectedness of all computers was really groundbreaking. The special effects still rock. Light Cycles, anyone?
After writing this, I am going home to watch this movie. I might even put a bid on a coin op on ebay if there are any available.
Believe it or not, I have never seen this. Minus 15 geek points for me. I am now adding it to my Netflix cue as I type. It stars Malcolm McDowell, which makes it all the more unforgivable that I haven't seen this film.
This was the first film I have ever seen where the "innocents" freaked me out more than the villains. I still have nightmares of the milky eyed Gelfling who horrified me as at the age of eleven. This film freaked me out even more than the homicidal clown doll from Poltergeist.
This film made me cry every time I watched it, until 1989. Then I watched it, on VHS, with my girlfriend at the time Rachel. She laughed hysterically at some of the most emotionally powerful moments. She found them utterly ridiculous. That experience has forever tainted my viewing of this film. That and the fact that Spielberg changed the film to take place in a world where police don't have guns in the recent re-release. At least it still has a D&D reference at the beginning of the film, which truly qualifies it as a geek film. Forget that it is about an alien. Forget that it is SF, or that it has a bicycle chase scene. What makes this film a truly geek film, is the inclusion of D&D in the opening scene.
I have never been able to buy Schwarzenegger as the brooding Cimmerian, but other than that this film is a pretty good adaptation of the stories. For those who complain that Thulsa Doom isn't a Conan villain, I would remind you that he is a Kull villain. Since Conan's first story, "The Phoenix in the Sword," was a rewrite of the first Kull story "By This Axe I Rule!" one should allow some creative license in the adaptation. The film is well written, well directed, and has the ultimate score for D&D gaming sessions.
Contemplate this upon the tree of woe!
When George Miller took his Mad Max character and overlayed Joseph Campbell's "Heroic Journey" over the universe design, he created a post-apocalyptic masterpiece. It is true that close scrutiny of this film makes it seem absurd, but how can you apply close scrutiny to a film with a villain named "Humungous?" You can't. You have to be crazy to try. Save your scrutiny for Patrick Swayze's Steel Dawn, that deserves your disdain. The Road Warrior is a work of high art.
Unlike Quentin Tarantino, where I grew up there weren't any Grindhouses. There were, however, discount after market movie theaters who didn't enforce ratings. Where Grindhouses were filled with crowds who reacted to the latest actioner or exploitation film, the discount theater showed films that had been out for a couple of months for a mere $1.50 and they let 11-year-olds walk into rated R films regardless of any adults. The floors were sticky and the theater was empty on an August afternoon when I watched a horribly scratched print of this film. It was the singularly most terrifying film I had ever seen. I became an instant John Carpenter fan and have forgiven many lesser films because of the brilliance of this one.
What's not to love about a filmic homage to EC Comics? Nothing. This movie roxxors. When I saw this film, I had read old EC Comics and some of the DC and Marvel horror comics. I had yet to see Tales from the Darkside so my only reference was the comics. I loved this film, especially the Stephen King story that reminded me of my favorite (at the time) Steve McQueen film, The Blob
When I was a preteen, I used to get irritated when my friend Sean wouldn't plop this film into the VCR every time I went over to his house after school, or to spend the night. I thought that this movie, with a shooting sword, was the greatest fantasy film ever made. It had a shooting sword for goodness sake! A SHOOTING SWORD! It also starred Lee Horsley. What's not to like. I waited for years for the sequel hinted at in the closing credits.
After rewatching this recently with my wife, I now understand why Sean didn't really want to watch it everyday. The film just isn't that well made. In fact, it's kind of dull. The shooting sword still rules, but isn't quite as cool as the Glaive from Krull.
When I hear how Eragon was lame, it reminds me how desperate I was as a kid for good fantasy. Who am I kidding, I'm still waiting for the sequel.
Did I point out that the sword has THREE BLADES and they shoot! Time to add a magic item to my D&D campaign.
11:00-12:00 G7 Animation and Bernie Wrightson: Biker Mice to Freak Show— Two years ago an artist-run animation studio, Gang of Seven Animation, brought in legendary artist Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing) to produce updated character designs for the revival of Biker Mice From Mars. The creativity continued as several horror feature projects emerged: an original concept and an adaptation of Wrightson and Bruce Jones’ graphic novel, Freak Show. Bernie Wrightson and top voice talent Ian Ziering (Dancing with the Stars), Rob Paulsen (Pinky and the Brain) and Jess Harnell (Animaniacs), along with directors Tom Tataranowicz (He-Man), Rich Arons (Freakazoid!) and executive producer Ted Bather talk about the creative process of series and feature production. The presentation will include the U.S. premiere of footage from Biker Mice From Mars and the world premiere of footage from Freak Show and a short based on Wrightson’s poster Change for a Dollar. The panel will be moderated by AACC President and head of G7’s business development, David Armstrong. Room 6B
11:00-12:00 Tor Books—Editors from Tor Books, the largest science fiction and fantasy publishing company in the U.S., fill you in on new and upcoming releases. Room 10
11:30-12:30 Episodic Games and Comics: Made for Each Other—With episodic gaming emerging as a new medium for storytelling, it's no surprise that comics licenses are a great fit. Telltale Games and Hothead Games are leading the way with episodic series based on popular comics—Telltale with Sam & Max: Season One and Hothead with the upcoming Penny Arcade Adventures. Members of both teams, along with Sam & Max creator Steve Purcell, describe the ins and outs of adapting a comic license into an interactive experience. Find out why playing your favorite comic series can be so much fun. Room 1AB
1:00-2:00 Hasbro Marvel—Hasbro marketing and design team members discuss what's new for the remainder of 2007 and give a sneak peak of what's in store for Spider-Man and Marvel products in Spring 2008. Question on all Hasbro Marvel products are welcome. Room 5AB
1:30-3:30 Paramount Pictures—Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, and Nickelodeon Movies present a bold new vision for the future of adventure. Be here for a one-of-a-kind presentation put together just for the fans at Comic-Con as you get a look at such highly anticipated films as Beowulf, The Spiderwick Chronicles, Stardust, Hot Rod, Iron Man, and the next installments of Indiana Jones and Star Trek, plus a few surprises. Appearing in person: JJ Abrams, Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau, Neil Gaiman, Roger Avary, and SNL's Andy Samberg. Hall H
2:15-3:15 BBC America: Torchwood—Writer Russell T. Davies (Doctor Who) has created a spectacular spin-off TV series from Doctor Who with Torchwood, about a rogue team of investigators who use scavenged alien technology to solve present-day crime—both alien and human. Catch an extended clip of the new series and a panel discussion with actor Eve Myles (Gwen Cooper), series writer Chris Chibnall, and executive producer Julie Gardner. TV Guide’s West Coast Bureau Chief Craig Tomashoff moderates. Room 6A
3:00-4:30 Starz Media: Harryhausen Returns and Hatchet—Two great new features are previewed in this event. First up it’s Harryhausen Returns, with motion picture special effects legend Ray Harryhausen talking about his upcoming feature film, Ares: God of War, a new adventure of Jason and the Argonauts, produced by Starz Media. Harryhausen will be joined by the film’s producers, Karen Bailey and Kevin VanHook. VanHook is also well known in the comic world as one-time executive editor for Valiant Comics and the co-creator/writer of the Bloodshot series and writer of the Flash Gordon Sunday comic strip. Also joining the panel will be actor/martial artist Ray Park, best know as Darth Maul in Star Wars Episode One and Toad in X-Men. With Hatchet, writer/director Adam Green celebrates old-school American horror with his upcoming film featuring the new slasher icon Victor Crowley! See what makes Victor tick with Green and stars of the film, including horror legends Robert Englund (Freddy Krueger), Kane Hodder (Jason Voorhees), and Tony Todd (Candyman), along with Tamara Feldman (Perfect Stranger), Mercedes McNab (Buffy The Vampire Slayer), Joleigh Fioreavanti (Nip/Tuck), and Deon Richmond (Not Another Teen Movie). Room 6CDEF
4:00-5:00 Where Did That Come From? Dark Fantasy and Suspense Authors Discuss Their Darkest Ideas—They’re the ones who made their parent/significant other/child/editor inquire, "Where did that come from?" Authors F. Paul Wilson (Repairman Jack novels), David Morrell (Captain America: The Chosen), Jeffrey J. Mariotte (Missing White Girl), Simon Wood (Accidents Waiting to Happen), Christopher Golden (The Myth Hunters), Stephen Woodworth (From Black Rooms), Mike Carey (The Devil You Know), and Richard Kadrey Butcher Bird) reveal their inner darkness with moderator Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 2
4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Adam Hughes—Celebrating his 25th year in comics, Comic-Con special guest Adam Hughes is one of the premiere cover artists in the medium, and you need look no further than the cover of this year’s Souvenir Book to see what we mean. Adam will talk about his career and art, including the upcoming All Star Wonder Woman. Room 5AB
4:45-5:45 Spotlight on George Romero—George A. Romero (Night of the Living Dead) is the undisputed master of zombie genre films, and Max Brooks (World War Z, Zombie Survival Guide) has written the best-selling zombie novels. Join these two titans of the undead as Max sits down for a personal interview with George, talking about everything zombies! Room 6CDEF
5:30-7:00 Comic Book Podcasting: One Year Later—Since the first gathering of comic book podcasters last year, podcasting has become a mainstay in the comic book community. With more showing up every day, podcasts have become just as big a part of reading comics as going to the shop on Wednesdays. Hear from the voices behind some of your favorite shows. This year's panel includes podcasters Scott Hinze (Fanboy Radio), Jon Towry (Comic Talk Cafe), Jimmy Aquino (Comic News Insider), Mr. Phil (Indie Spinner Rack), Josh Flanagan (iFanboy.com), Ian Levenstein (Comic Timing), John Mayo (Comic Book Page) and will be moderated by comic book writer and retailer Vito Delsante (Stuck, JSA Classified). Room 8
6:00-7:00 How To Become an Internet Geek Super-Star—It is the age of video on the Internet, and geeks are leading the charge! If you have interesting stories to tell or a unique take on nerd culture, there is an audience out there for you. Ben Cote (DivX Stage6) will moderate a wide-ranging discussion on how some of the budding stars of the online world found a following of like-minded fans. Guests include Jarett Cale and Geoff Lapaire (“Jeremy” and “Kyle,” PurePwnage), Alex Albrecht (Digg/The Totally Rad Show), Jonathan London (Geekscape), and Zadi Diaz (JetSetShow). Room 30CDE
8:30-10:30 World Premiere! Superman Doomsday—Superman is dead—or is he? All will be revealed at Comic-Con’s world premiere of DC Comics, Warner Bros. Home Video, and Warner Bros. Animation’s Superman Doomsday. It’s the highly anticipated first DC Universe made-for-DVD release presented by Warner Premiere and produced by Warner Bros. Animation. Inspired by the best-selling graphic novel of all time, Superman Doomsday is an epic tale of heroism and tragedy, sacrifice and redemption. The film is rated PG-13 for action violence. The voice cast is led by Adam Baldwin (Serenity, Chuck) as Superman, Anne Heche (Men in Trees) as Lois Lane, and James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) as Lex Luthor. DC Comics’ Gregory Novek will moderate the post-premiere panel that includes executive producer/director/writer Bruce Timm (Justice League Unlimited, Batman: The Animated Series), directors Brandon Vietti (Legion of Super Heroes) and Lauren Montgomery (Legion of Super Heroes), writer Duane Capizzi (The Batman), and, quite possibly, members of the voice cast. And stay ’til the end—there might just be a glimpse of future DC Universe films. Ballroom 20
9:00-12:00 8th Annual Kung-Fu Superhero Extravaganza—Martial art movie master Ric Meyers is back with his annual clip fest of the wildest, craziest, funniest, and most amazing live Asian action you've ever laid your lacerated eye orbs on. As always, get ready to laugh, gasp, cheer, and maybe even grab a freebie or two. Last year was SRO, so don't miss out on the fun! Room 6CDEF
10:30-11:30 Image Comics: The Founders—Jim Lee, Erik Larsen, Mark Silvestri, Jim Valentino, and maybe even a surprise guest panelist or two reunite for Image's remarkable 15th anniversary. Join the conversation as they explore Image Comics' beginnings, impact, and future in the comics industry. Moderated by George Khoury (author of Image Comics: The Road to Independence from TwoMorrow Books). Room 5AB
10:30-11:30 The Art of Adapting Comics to the Screen—As the cinematic renaissance of comic book–based films continues, here's your chance to learn what it takes to adapt these dream projects to the screen. Moderator Jeff Goldsmith (senior editor, Creative Screenwriting magazine) hosts a panel featuring Stan Lee (Fantastic Four), Don Payne (co-writer, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer), Mark Fergus (co-writer, Iron Man), Kevin Feige (president of production, Marvel Studios), and Mark Verheiden (Teen Titans). Room 6A
10:30-11:30 Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 1—Join three of Disney•Pixar's most talented filmmakers—Ralph Eggelston (Oscar-winning director of For the Birds), Andrew Jimenez (Oscar-nominated co-director of One Man Band), and Gary Rydstrom (director of Pixar's newest animated Oscar-nominated short, Lifted)—as they discuss the studio's acclaimed short films, with a Q&A session to follow. Room 6CDEF
10:30-12:00 Warner Bros.—Warner Bros. presents a sneak peek at some of its upcoming major film releases!
The Invasion is a nightmarish journey into a world where the only way to stay alive is to stay awake. The mysterious crash of the space shuttle leads to the terrifying discovery that there is something alien within the wreckage. Those who come in contact with it are changing in ominous and inexplicable ways. Producer Joel Silver appears in person.
In the supernatural thriller One Missed Call, people receive terrifying cell phone messages of their own final fatal moments. Stars Edward Burns and Shannyn Sossamon will be on stage to introduce film footage and answer questions.
In Whiteout, Kate Beckinsale stars as Carrie Stetko, the lone U.S. Marshal assigned to Antarctica, whose investigation of the continent’s first murder draws her into a shocking mystery. Now, with only three days until winter, Carrie must solve the crime before Antarctica is plunged into darkness and she is stranded with the killer. Star Kate Beckinsale appears in-person.
From writer/directors Larry and Andy Wachowski, the creators of the groundbreaking The Matrix trilogy, and producer Joel Silver comes the live-action, high-octane family adventure Speed Racer. Based on the classic series created by anime pioneer Tatsuo Yoshida, the live-action Speed Racer will showcase the kind of revolutionary visual effects and cutting-edge storytelling that have become the benchmarks of the Wachowski Brothers’ films.
In the all-new action comedy Get Smart, Maxwell Smart (Steve Carell) is on a mission to thwart the latest plot for world domination by the evil crime syndicate known as KAOS.
In Trick ‘R Treat, the tricks and treats of Halloween turn deadly as strange creatures of every variety—human and otherwise—try to survive the scariest night of the year. Mike Dougherty appears in-person to discuss his directorial debut produced by Bryan Singer.
Written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Dave Gibbons, Watchmen was originally published by DC comics as a 12-issue comic book series between 1986 and 1987, before subsequently being collected into a trade paperback. It is the only graphic novel to win the prestigious Hugo Award or to be named among Time magazine’s “100 Best English Language Novels from 1923 to the Present.” Director Zack Snyder will appear in-person to discuss the upcoming film and answer questions. Hall H
11:00-12:00 She/He Who Understands History Gets to Rewrite It—Authors discuss how an appreciation of world history and modern events as well as mythology influences and colors their worlds of fantasy, science fiction, and alternate realities. Panelists Jacqueline Carey (Kushiel's Legacy series), David Anthony Durham (Acacia: Book One: The War with the Mein ), David Keck (In the Eye of Heaven), Harry Turtledove ( Settling Accounts: In at the Death), Peter David (Darkness of the Light), R.A. Salvatore (The Ancient), and Mel Odom (Quest for the Trilogy) adapt and build on world events for their own purposes. Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy moderates. Room 8
11:00-12:00 Reaper: Exclusive Pilot Screening—Be among the first to see this special version of the Reaper pilot directed by Kevin Smith, introduced by Missy Peregrym (Heroes). For the first 20 years of his life, Sam (Bret Harrison, Grounded For Life, The Loop) has wondered why his parents went so easy on his slacker ways—until the day Sam turns 21 and discovers the ungodly reason his parents let him slide: They sold his soul to the devil before he was even born. Satan himself (Ray Wise, 24) drops by to personally explain that Sam must now serve as his bounty hunter, tracking down evil souls that have escaped and returning them to Hell. Bolstered by his love for co-worker Andi (Missy Peregrym) and with the goofball help of his friends and fellow slackers, Bert “Sock” Wysocki (Tyler Labine, Boston Legal, Invasion) and Ben (Rick Gonzalez, Coach Carter), Sam faces his destiny as the Reaper. Ballroom 20
11:30-12:30 IDW Publishing—What's coming up for IDW in '07 and '08? Find out in this informative panel that will features big announcements, big guests (Cory Doctorow, Mike Baron, and Brian Lynch, among others), discussions of upcoming Angel, 30 Days of Night, and Transformers, and more, all presided over by IDW publisher Chris Ryall. Room 4
12:15-1:15 Stargate SG-1: The Movie—It’s been barely a month since television’s longest-running sci-fi series aired its final episode, yet the SG-1 team is already embarking on a perilous new mission—to recover the Ark of Truth with the hopes that the power locked inside the ancient artifact will loosen the grip of the Ori army on our galaxy. Never-before-seen footage from the new direct-to-video movie (from Fox Home Entertainment) will be followed by a Q&A session. Participants include SG-1 stars Ben Browder (as Cameron Mitchell), Amanda Tapping (as Samantha Carter), Michael Shanks (as Daniel Jackson), Christopher Judge (as Teal’c) and executive producer/director Robert Cooper. Ballroom 20
12:15-2:00 Twentieth Century Fox—Twentieth Century Fox “jumps” into Comic-Con with exclusive looks at some of the most-anticipated movie events of 2007 and 2008. In the epic action-adventure Jumper, a genetic anomaly allows a young man to teleport himself anywhere. The film, opening February 15, 2008, starring Hayden Christensen, Rachel Bilson, Jamie Bell, and Samuel L. Jackson, is directed by Doug Liman. The cast and filmmakers will screen footage.
In Aliens vs. Predator, opening December 25, the iconic creatures from two of the scariest film franchises ever are back.
Agent 47 hits the big screen, as Fox present footage from the long-awaited movie adaptation of the legendary videogame franchise Hitman, opening October 12.
Vin Diesel stars in Babylon, A.D., the story of a mercenary hired to deliver a package from the ravages of post-apocalyptic Eastern Europe to a destination in the teeming megalopolis of New York City. Opening February 29, 2008.
From Fox-Walden comes The Dark Is Rising (opening October 5), based on the classic science fiction novel about Will Stanton, a young man who learns he is the last of a group of warriors who have dedicated their lives to fighting the forces of the Dark. Filmmakers and cast will present exclusive footage from the film.
City of Ember (opening October 10, 2008) is a mystical city of lights. But now the city is growing dark and two of its teenagers will need to unlock an ancient mystery and help the citizens escape before the lights go out forever. Director Gil Kenan (Monster House) has put together an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the film. Hall H
12:30-1:30 Alter Ego Magazine—Started by Jerry Bails in the early 1960s, Alter Ego was taken to new heights as the top fanzine of its time Roy Thomas. Roy resurrected the publication in the 1990s as a slick magazine on comics of the Golden and Silver Ages, and its celebrating its 70th issue this month from TwoMorrows Publishing. Roy will be on hand to moderate a lively discussion of Alter Ego's past, present, and future, featuring regular columnist Bill Schelly and Fawcett Collectors of America (FCA) editor P. C. Hamerlinck, plus a surprise guest or two! Room 4
12:30-1:30 Vertigo: I Am Legend—Top sf/comic book writers and artists Orson Scott Card, Richard Christian Matheson, Mark Protosevich, Steve Niles, Bill Sienkiewicz, David Levy, and Jason Chan unveil and discuss their contributions to the I Am Legend–inspired comic book, as well as master sf author Richard Matheson's enduring influence. The limited-edition comic will be available at the panel and at designated times in the DC Comics booth. Room 5AB
1:30-2:30 The Image Comics Show—Your friend and ours Brian Posehn (The Sarah Silverman Show) hosts a panel featuring all your favorite Image Comics superstars! See what Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead), Mike Oeming (Mice Templar), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Matt Fraction (Casanova), Gerry Duggan (The Infinite Horizon), Phil Noto (The Infinite Horizon), and Jay Fotos (Frank Frazetta's Death Dealer) have planned for the future of creator-owned comics. Learn what gives them the drive to pour their energies into their own creations. You may get inspired to do some of your very own! Plus, some startling announcements and previews from many Image favorites! Room 5AB
2:00-3:30 Marvel in the 60s and 70s—The Marvel Age of Comics was a magical time for both the people who created the books and fans who read them. Mark Evanier talks to Roy Thomas (Avengers, Conan), Gary Friedrich (Sgt. Fury, Ghost Rider), Gene Colan (Daredevil, Tomb of Dracula), Dick Ayers (Sgt. Fury, Fantastic Four), Mike Ploog (Ghost Rider, Monster of Frankenstein), and Magazine Management’s David George, about that magical Marvelous era. Room 8
2:15-3:00 New Line Cinema: Shoot 'Em Up—A gritty, fast-paced action thriller, Shoot ‘Em Up kicks into high gear with a memorable opening scene and never relents. New Line Cinema will show exclusive footage from Shoot 'Em Up, and star Clive Owen, along with director Michael Davis, will be there to discuss the film! Also included in the presentation will be a special preview of New Line Cinema's upcoming films, including The Golden Compass. Hall H
2:45-4:00 Chuck Screening and Q&A—Coming this fall to NBC and one of the most talked-about new series of the upcoming television season, Chuck is a comedic spy thriller that follows a regular help-desk worker who must save the world after downloading the CIA’s database into his brain. Talk to executive producers Josh Schwartz (The O.C.) and McG (Supernatural), co-executive producer Chris Fedak, and cast members after a premiere screening of the pilot. Coming this fall to NBC, Chuck is produced by College Hill Pictures, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television. Room 6B
4:30-5:30 Demons, Devils, and Evil Dictators—Come on, villains are the best. Devising new and unique demons and devils is one of the best parts of a fantasy writer's job. Learn about some of the participants' favorite villains and what inspires their own evil imaginings. Watch authors Jon Lewis and Derek Benz (Grey Griffins series), Holly Black (Spiderwick, Ironside), DJ MacHale ( Pendragon: Pilgrims of Rayne), James Owen (Here, There Be Dragons), Frank Beddor ( Looking Glass Wars), Laini Taylor (Fairies of Dreamdark), Rebecca Moesta ( Crystal Doors #2: Ocean Realm), Nancy Holder (The Rose Bride), and William Boniface (The Extraordinary Adventures of Ordinary Boy) rub their hands and cackle gleefully. Room 1AB
4:45-5:45 Eureka—A small town with even bigger big secrets this season, Eureka is a community of geniuses assembled by the government to conduct top-secret research. What they've unwittingly created is a place where anything imaginable can happen . . . and does. Eureka started off with a bang and remained a must-see dramedy on SCI FI. The season 1 series premiere holds the distinction of being the highest-rated series telecast in SCI FI Channel history. See what all the buzz is about and get a sneak peak at the season ahead! Panelists include Colin Ferguson (Jack Carter), Salli Richardson (Allison Blake), Ed Quinn (Nathan Stark), Joe Morton (Henry Deacon), Jaime Paglia (co-creator and executive producer), and Tony Optican (VP, original programming, SCI FI). Room 6CDEF
6:00-8:00 Ray Harryhausen and 20 Million Miles to Earth: 50th Anniversary Edition—2007 marks the half-century milestone of one of the earliest films by stop-motion animation genius Ray Harryhausen, 20 Million Miles to Earth. The film, which depicts the destruction of Rome by a reptile from the planet Venus, has been colorized with Harryhausen’s personal supervision, and he wants to be with you while you watch it for the first time. Ray Harryhausen will speak briefly, answer a few questions, then do live commentary while the film is screened. He’ll also answer more questions as the screening proceeds. The film will be available on DVD July 31 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Room 6B
6:15-7:45 Kevin Smith—He’s back, and this time not even traffic can stop him! Comic-Con favorite Kevin Smith holds court in another of his no-holds-barred Q&A sessions, talking about just anything he damn well pleases. Hall H
7:15-9:00 Doctor Strange World Premiere Screening and Panel—Lionsgate and Marvel Studios present the world premiere of the newest Marvel Animated Feature, Doctor Strange, with a film screening and Q&A panel featuring Marvel’s senior VP of creative development animation Craig Kyle, plus members of the cast and production team. Room 6CDEF
8:15-10:15 SCI FI Friday Night: Eureka and Superhero Screenings—Don’t get SCI FI in your hotel room? Come to a commercial-free screening of Eureka and Who Wants to Be a Superhero! Come dressed as your favorite superhero! Colin Ferguson, star of Eureka, will open up the evening’s festivities. Catch up on Thursday’s premiere of Superhero and watch an all-new episode of Eureka before it airs on SCI FI. The first 1,000 attendees will receive Feedback’s Dark Horse comic book! Room 6B
9:15-10:15 Special Early Screening: Pushing Daisies—Get to Comic-Con early to see this exclusive screening of one of the fall’s most eagerly anticipated new shows! The stars and creators, including executive producer/creator Bryan Fuller (Heroes), of this new series—about an ordinary guy who can bring people back from the dead with the touch of his finger—come together to screen the Pushing Daisies pilot and answer fan questions. Produced by The Jinks/Cohen Company in association with Warner Bros. Television, Pushing Daisies will air Wednesdays at 8 PM ET/PT this fall on ABC. Room 6CDEF
10:00-11:15 Bionic Woman: Exclusive Pilot Screening and Q&A—Be one of the first to see this special version of the Bionic Woman pilot and participate in a Q&A panel session with series star and newcomer Michelle Ryan (EastEnders); executive producers David Eick (Battlestar Galactica), Glen Morgan (The X-Files), and Jason Smilovic (Lucky Number Slevin); co-stars Miguel Ferrer (Crossing Jordan) and Will Yun Lee (Witchblade); as well as a special guest appearance by Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica), who portrays Sarah Corvis, and more. When a devastating car accident leaves Jaime Sommers (Michelle Ryan) at death's door, her only hope for survival is a cutting-edge, top-secret technology that comes at a hefty price. With a whole new existence and a debt to repay, Jaime must figure out how to use her extraordinary abilities for good, while weighing the personal sacrifices she will have to make. It's Jaime's journey of self-discovery and inner strength that will help her embrace her new life as the Bionic Woman. Ballroom 20
10:30-11:30 Who Wants to Be a Superhero?—SCI FI Channel has once again joined forces with Nash Entertainment (Meet My Folks, For Love or Money, Who Wants to Marry My Dad?) and legendary comic book creator Stan Lee's POW! Entertainment to present an all-new season of Who Wants to Be a Superhero? This year’s winner walks away with their superhero character immortalized in a new comic book from Dark Horse Comics created by Stan Lee himself and a Shocker Toy action figure! Panelists Stan Lee (star/executive producer), Andy Scheer (executive producer), Feedback (2006 winner), Hygena and Hyperstrike (both season 2 contestants), and Rob Swartz (VP, SCI FI alternative programming) talk about the second season. Room 1AB
1:30-2:30 Podcasting 101—Podcasting is becoming the premier way to share your thoughts with the world. Join podcasters Joe Gonzalez (Comic News Insider), Conor Kilpatrick (iFanboy.com), Ron Richards (iFanboy.com), and Jon Towry (Comic Talk Cafe) as they discuss starting a podcast from the ground up, with topics ranging from "What kind of podcast should I start?" to "How do I build an audience?" There will be a live podcast demo and an audience Q&A as well. Room 30CDE
2:30-3:30 Storytelling with and Without Pictures—Authors of prose and comics discuss how they write differently for different media—or do they? Find out with authors David Morrell (Captain America: The Chosen), Christopher Golden (The Myth Hunters, Talent), Mike Mignola (Baltimore, Or, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire, Hellboy), Richard Morgan (TH1TRE3N, Black Widow), Tad Williams (Shadowplay, Aquaman), Barbara Hambly (Renfield: Slave of Dracula, Garden of Emptiness), and Mike Carey (The Devil You Know, Lucifer). Moderated by Maryelizabeth Hart of Mysterious Galaxy. Room 1AB
2:45-3:45 Supernatural Screening and Q&A—Supernatural stars Jared Padalecki (House of Wax) and Jensen Ackles (Smallville)—along with executive producer Eric Kripke (Boogeyman), co-executive producer Ben Edlund (Angel), and co-executive producer Peter Johnson (DC Comics’ Supernatural: Origins comic book series)—answer questions from the audience, present a reel of highlights from Supernatural, and discuss the upcoming third season of this thrill-ride series with moderator Craig Tomashoff, West Coast Bureau Chief of TV Guide. Produced by Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Supernatural airs Thursdays at 9 PM ET/PT on The CW. Room 6CDEF
4:00-5:00 Two Rays: Bradbury and Harryhausen—Two of the living legends of science fiction and fantasy reunite in this Comic-Con exclusive event! Author Ray Bradbury and filmmaker Ray Harryhausen share a life-long friendship and passionate interest in all things fantastic. Joining them are Bradbury biographer Sam Weller and Harryhausen producer Arnold Kunert. Room 6CDEF
4:30-6:00 Spotlight on Roy Thomas—One of the first big-time fans turned pro, Roy Thomas went from editing the seminal comics fanzine Alter Ego to a job at Marvel Comics that saw him produce memorable runs on Avengers, X-Men, Conan and just about every other Marvel character and group, including, at one point, editing the whole line. Mark Evanier interviews Thomas on his long and storied career in comics, including his return to the magazine that started it all, Alter Ego. Room 2
4:30-5:30 Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski—It’s a big summer for popular writer/producer/director J. Michael Straczynski, as his new direct-to-DVD feature Babylon 5: The Lost Tales debuts and he brings back Thor to his rightful place in the Marvel universe. JMS talks about these projects and more, including his upcoming film Changeling for Imagine Entertainment, which is being produced by Ron Howard, starring Angelina Jolie, and directed by Clint Eastwood. And then there’s World War Z, and Goliath: The Story of David and that Silver Surfer movie, too . . . Room 6B
4:45-5:45 Dark Horse Presents: Joss Whedon—With the hugely successful release of Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 8 for Dark Horse Comics, Joss Whedon (Fray, Astonishing X-Men) talks about picking up where the TV series left off, his other projects, future plans, and possibly even a few surprises. A sneak peek from the upcoming Serenity—Collector's Edition DVD will be shown. Ballroom 20
5:15-6:30 The Sarah Connor Chronicles Screening and Q&A—Catch the first-ever fan screening of The Sarah Connor Chronicles, the television incarnation of the Terminator franchise, followed by a Q&A with stars Lena Headey (300), Thomas Dekker (Heroes), Summer Glau (Firefly), and Richard T. Jones (Event Horizon), along with executive producers Josh Friedman (War of the Worlds), David Nutter (The X-Files), and James Middleton (of C-2 Pictures, producers of the Terminator trilogy). Produced by C-2 Pictures in association with Warner Bros. Television, The Sarah Connor Chronicles will air Sundays at 9 PM ET/PT on FOX, starting midseason. Room 6CDEF
5:15-6:45 Sony/Screen Gems—This panel showcases three great new films from Screen Gems and Sony! First up, it’s zombie action at it’s finest with Resident Evil: Extinction. See the world premiere of the new trailer and meet the stars of this third and final installment of the Resident Evil saga, based on the wildly popular video game series. Alice (Milla Jovovich), now in hiding in the Nevada desert, once again joins forces with Carlos Olivera (Oded Fehr) and L. J. (Mike Epps), along with new survivors, including Claire Redfield (Ali Larter). On stage in person to take your questions will be Milla Jovovich, in her first ever Comic-con appearance, along with co-stars Oded Fehr and Ali Larter. Resident Evil: Extinction is in theaters everywhere September 21.
30 Days of Night—Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith's vampire noir epic horror/thriller reaches the big screen under the banner of Sam Raimi's Ghost House Pictures. On hand to show clips and answer questions will be director David Slade, producer Rob Tapert, creators Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, and stars Josh Hartnett (Sin City) and Danny Huston (Children of Men).
Superbad—Producer Judd Apatow follows his hit comedy Knocked Up with this highly anticipated look at the lives of several misfit guys on the eternal quest to find the right girl and prove that they’re not just bad, they're Superbad. Apatow discusses the outrageous comedy audiences have come to expect from him. Joining Apatow will be his Superbad entourage, including Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, director Greg Mottola, screenwriter and star Seth Rogen, screenwriter Evan Goldberg, producer Shauna Robertson, and possibly even Bill Hader, if he will only listen to reason. Hall H
5:30-6:30 Robert A. Heinlein: Centennial Man—Greg Bear (Quantico), Jackie Estrada (Eisner Awards administrator and long-time Comic-Con volunteer), Dr. Robert James (assistant editor, The Heinlein Journal), David Silver (president, The Heinlein Society), and Mike Sheffield (Blood Drive chair, The Heinlein Society) talk about Robert Anson Heinlein, who left an incredible literary and philanthropic legacy to the world. Help celebrate his 100th birthday with a lively discussion of his writing and his life. Room 10
5:45-7:00 Introducing The Film Crew: Mike Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett—Three of the brilliantly insane minds behind Mystery Science Theater 3000 finally reunite to unleash their warped sense of humor on the cinema of yesteryear as The Film Crew. Join Mike, Kevin, and Bill as they preview exclusive excerpts from three upcoming Film Crew DVDs: Killers From Space, Wild Women of Wongo, and Giant Of Marathon—followed by a Q&A session! Room 6B
1:00-2:30 Masters of the Web—Hosted by Tom DeSanto (Transformers, X-Men), reps from the biggest genre and movie websites come together to talk about how new media have affected moviemaking today, what it takes to run a popular site, and much more. Panelists include Robert Sanchez (IESB.net), Garth Franklin (Darkhorizons.com), Berge Garabedian (Joblo.com), Patrick Lee (Scifi.com), Ed Douglas (Comingsoon.net/Superherohype.com), Brad Miska (Bloody-Disgusting.com), Steven Weintraub (Collider.com), Devin Faraci (CHUD.com), Drew McWeeney (Aintitcool.com), Paul Christensen (Movieweb.com), Kellvin Chavez (Latinoreview.com), and Eric Moro (IGN.com). Room 6A
2:00-3:30 Scribe Awards Media Tie-in Writers—Attend the first annual presentation of the IAMTW "Scribe" awards, followed by a panel of nominees, including Donald Bain (Murder She Wrote), Marv Wolfman (Superman Returns), David R. George III (Star Trek Crucible: McCoy—Provenance of Shadows), Jeff Mariotte (30 Days of Night: Rumors of the Undead), Nathan Long (Warhammer: Orc Slayer), Christina York (Alias: APO: Strategic Reserve), Alice Henderson (Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Portal Through Time), and moderator Max Allan Collins (The Pink Panther). Andy Mangels (Star Trek: Excelsior) will present the awards. Room 5AB
2:00-3:00 Nicolas and Weston Cage Talk Comics—Academy Award winning actor Nicolas Cage is one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, but he’s also one of us: a big-time comics fan. Nic and his son Weston Cage have created their own comic, Voodoo Child, published by Virgin Comics. Father and son will talk about their mutual love of comics and what it’s like to collaborate on this brand new book! Ballroom 20
2:30-3:30 SCI FI: Flash Gordon—Placing a 21st-century spin on a science fiction classic, SCI FI’s contemporized version of Flash Gordon follows the all-new adventures of Flash (Eric Johnson) and his companions, Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov. Ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances, they find themselves as Earth’s last line of defense against the forces of the merciless dictator Ming. Panelists include Eric Johnson (Flash), Gina Holden (Dale), Peter Hume (executive producer), and Mark Stern (executive VP, original programming, SCI FI). Room 6CDEF
Matt has designed collectible card games, roleplaying games, miniatures games, and board games, and has directed voiceover work and written short fiction, comic books, novels, and computer game scripts and stories. Forbeck is currently working on several projects, including the novelization for the upcoming Mutant Chronicles film starring John Malkovich, Ron Perlman, and Thomas Jane. Forbeck was co-designer of the Mutant Chronicles Second Edition roleplaying game, upon which the film is based. Additionally, Forbeck worked on upcoming
Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law video game for the PSP and PS2.
Matt is a proud member of the Alliterates, a group of fiction writers and game designers, all of who have been published by TSR or Wizards of the Coast. He also belongs to the International Association of Media Tie-In Writers and the Academy of Adventure Gaming Arts and Design and is a member of the board of directors of the Madison chapter of the International Game Developers Association.
Projects Matt has worked on have been nominated for 23 Origins Awards and won 12. This includes the Best Roleplaying Game for Deadlands and The Lord of the Rings Roleplaying Game, Best Miniatures Rules for Warzone and The Great Rail Wars, Best Roleplaying Adventure for Independence Day, Best Fantasy Board Game forGenestealer, and Best Short Story for "Prometheus Unwound" from The Book of All Flesh. He has also won five ENnies.ABOUT GEEKERATI RADIO – Geekerati Radio is an online radio show hosted by Christian Johnson, Shawna Benson, Bill Cunningham, Eric Lytle, Wes Kobernick, and Steven Merrill which features discussion of popular culture by geeks for geeks and is a featured show in the BlogTalkRadio network. The Geekerati Radio show airs Monday nights at 7pm Pacific and the archives are available 24/7.
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