Hulu Recommendation Friday #2 -- She-Ra: Princess of Power

For those who grew up as "latchkey kids" in the 1980s, there were an amazing array of weekday cartoons to keep us entertained as we put off doing homework and waited for one of our parents to come home from work. The kings of the weekday afternoon set were GI JOE, TRANSFORMERS, and HE-MAN, but I always had fond place in my heart for SHE-RA: PRINCESS OF POWER. Yes it was beat for beat HE-MAN with a female protagonist, but that just meant I got to watch another half an our of HE-MAN style action and that was cool with me.

I think that fact that Larry DiTillio, who wrote a movie column for the role playing game magazine Different Worlds and also wrote a classic adventure (Isle of Darksmoke) for the Tunnels and Trolls Roleplaying game, wrote the pilot episode probably didn't hurt my enjoyment of the show. Larry will be running a Tunnels and Trolls adventure at this year's Trollcon. We haven't interviewed Larry on Geekerati yet, but we did interview another 80s cartoon writer -- who worked on GI JOE and SPIDER-MAN AND HIS AMAZING FRIENDS -- Christy Marx.

As usual, click play and then click the full screen button and enjoy.

DEADLIER THAN THE MALE and 24: SEASON 1

The current season of 24 is the first season my wife and I have watched. When the show started, we thought that the premise of a "real time" television action/drama was ingenious. Our lives were very busy, and we had no DVR at the time, so we missed half the first season. We then saw a commercial where Jack's daughter is attacked by a mountain lion and our suspension of disbelief was lost before our viewership began.

Years later, under the continual barrage of recommendations by our friends, we capitulated and started watching the current season.

We like it -- as unrealistic as it is -- very much. We also think they should rename the show to Jack's Very Bad, Horrible, Awful, Day. We also don't like having to wait seven days to see what happens next. We can be thankful for the fact that we haven't seen any of the other season, because now we have some content to view between our weekly updates of Jack's current horrible day.

Naturally, we began our filler viewing with Season One and we're about halfway through the season. I was amazed at how much effort the villains of the first season took just to make sure they could get a shot off at a Presidential Candidate. I thought no one would go through so much effort. But then I saw a post on a blog I regularly read (Lee Goldberg's fine A Writer's Life) entitled "There Have Got to be Easier Ways to Kill a Guy..." which bore surprising similarities to the first episode of 24. Watch the clip and I'll discuss the similarities below.

Now that you've watched the opening to Deadlier than the Male think back to the first episode of 24 -- Day One.

SPOILER ALERT IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN 24 SEASON ONE

We have a woman who seduces a man on an airplane in order to get his special key card. She then leaves the plane using an explosive device on the airplane's exit door (and another explosive on board for good measure), which causes explosive decompression allowing her to escape as her other bomb blows up the plane. Mind you, this was all to get a key card that would allow an assassin, who has had extensive plastic surgery in order to make him look like the now dead journalist, to enter a location where he could eventually shoot a Presidential candidate. This doesn't even get the gun in his hands, a side of the plot that adds several layers of planning to what is already a convoluted assassination attempt.

END OF SPOILER ALERT

Apparently, the creators of 24 don't agree with Mr. Goldberg. Apparently, they believe there are far more complicated ways to kill a guy.

13: The Fear May Not Be Real, But the Laughter Certainly Is

Cinerati may not be the biggest proponent of reality television shows. We only watch "American Idol" during the auditions -- you know, when the show is entertaining. We only watch "So You Think You Can Dance" after the auditions when the real competition begins.

That may seem inconsistent, but the reality is that the finalists on Idol are all talented and Cinerati WILL have plenty of chances to hear the artist sing in the future. This is only half true for "So You Think You Can Dance." The dancers are all extremely talented after the audition stage, but one doesn't get many opportunities to watch elegant dancers -- so we take our dancing pleasures when we can get them.

Cinerati is also a big fan of "The Real Housewives" series of shows. We don't care if it's Orange County, New York, or Atlanta. Those mean women, not you Jeana -- you are a sweetheart --, but most of the other women are amazingly petty caricatures that Cinerati cannot resist watching.

We can now add one more show to our strange list of preferred reality TV, "13: The Fear is Real." Let me assure you, that if the fear is real, it is only real for the contestants. There is nothing scary about watching the show, except for how scary ridiculous the contestants are. The show currently airs on Friday nights at 9pm, which puts in in competition with "Monk" and means that it goes straight to DVR while Cinerati watches more thoughtful fare. But once that more thoughtful fare is over, we run straight for the DVR menu to see what shenanigans the producers of 13 have in store for the contestants.

What is "13: The Fear is Real" you ask? It is a high concept reality show that asks the essential question, "what if we made a reality show that simulates a horror movie." Instead of contestants getting voted off every week, one contestant is killed off by the "mastermind of terror." Like "Top Chef," there are two stages of each episode. First there is a small group activity that sets the stage for which contestants will have to attempt to survive that episodes "death ritual," a contest that simulates some murder from the horror films we all know and love. Anything from being buried alive to being burned at the stake can be the "death" highlighted in the final ritual. Of the two contestants who participate in this ritual, only one returns to the group. At the end of the show, one contestant goes home with $66,666.00. Not a lot, we know, but it is the CW.

Added to the natural selective process of the show's contests is a twist. Early in the show, one of the contestants acquired a "murder box" when the others weren't looking and became the mastermind's accomplice in crime. This "wolf among the sheep" will have the opportunity to use the box to kill, one at a time, up to three other competitors. So not only do the contestants have to worry about the mastermind, they have to worry about each other.

And worry they do. They are constantly talking about how "afraid" they are. If one were to design a drinking game where you had to drink every time a contestant said they were afraid, you would die by the end of the first 10 minutes. These people are crazy scared -- of some pretty mundane stuff. The casting directors did a great job of picking some of the most paranoid, phobic, and superstitious competitors possible.

Cinerati's favorite episode was when the murder box was first acquired by the -- yet to be revealed -- killer. One of the contestants was certain he knew who the killer was and wanted to "out" the killer. By the structure of the episode, the tension this contestant was causing threw them for a bit of a loop. But instead of letting the contestant sidetrack the show, they decided to seize the opportunity and make accusations a part of the game. The contestant was informed that if he wanted to publicly accuse someone he could, but two things would be required. First, he'd have to get everyone to agree that the person was the killer. Second, if he was incorrect he would have to participate in the death ritual that night. He was wrong and had to participate. What leads one to believe that this was an on the spot decision by the crew was that it is the only time that 3 people have taken part in the ritual. I thought it was a brilliant adaptation to the changing circumstances that the players can create and it has been great fun watching the paranoia build on the show since that episode.

So far, the killer has eliminated only one of the other contestants, but the choice could not have been better. You see, in the first episode one of the contestants acquired the box, but was too stressed out by the responsibility and returned the box to the location it was originally placed. She was the first victim of the killer. That's what Cinerati calls good TV.

The show isn't scary. The production values are laughable at times. But the contestants are an absolute riot, and the contests are often very creative -- especially the final rituals. Cinerati recommends this show to anyone who doesn't take their reality TV too seriously and would like to thank Ghost House productions, that's you Sam Raimi, for this excellent diversion. Once you realize the show isn't about the viewing audience being afraid, rather about watching how the contestants deal with fear, then you can sit back and enjoy the show.

AMCtv Streaming Classic 1967 Series The Prisoner

Can you say...W00t?

Bitchin': "Superman Returns" and "X2: X-Men United" Scribe Brings Werewolf Women to TV

According to this morning's Hollywood Reporter, Michael Dougherty ("Superman Returns," "X2: X-Men United," as well as an upcoming "Charlie Chan" movie -- sweet) is developing a television show for Fox entitled "Bitches." At first glance, one might think this title refers to a "Housewives of X Community" style show. One would be wrong in this case, as this show is a Dramedy about the lives of four female friends in New York...who happen to be werewolves.

Ah...the sweet smell of high concept. It makes me feel all warm inside. This is the kind of idea that fuels my geek metabolism.

I love the idea of combining "Sex and the City" with "Werewolves." Gretchen Berg, who has worked on "Women's Murder Club," "Roswell," "Wonderfalls" (bold intentional), and "Pushing Daisies" will be helping Dougherty develop the show. As will her writing partner Aaron Harberts.

A good high concept premise doesn't guarantee a good show, one could easily see this premise slipping too much into "Housewives of the Wolf Pack" or "Sex in the City in Heat" territory. But when judging whether or not a particular show/movie/book will succeed in entertaining me, I often look to see if the author/creator and I have shared interests of any kind. In this case, Dougherty has written two "slasher" style horror movies. I am often entertained by the genre. Check. He wrote "X2," which I really liked and wrote "Superman Returns" which has moments that perfectly capture the character. It also has moments like Superman as dead beat dad that are problematic, but...he's also working on a Charlie Chan film which might mean he shares my love of the pulp. So...check. He was also the voice of Hooper and Quint in Jaws in 30 Seconds Re-enacted by Bunnies. Check.

That makes three things he has worked on, and thus likely has an interest in, that I too enjoy. Looks good to me. The only way I might be more likely to give the show a try is if Dougherty was in my bi-weekly D&D group.

Next task, see if Dougherty would be willing to do a Geekerati Episode.

The WGA Strike and the Geek Perspective

Last night, television writer/producer Rob Long hung out with me and the rest of the geeks at Geekerati to discuss the current WGA strike. In addition to covering the expected questions like, "why the strike is happening" and "how will this affect the current television season," Rob discussed the ways new technology are going to change the ways we interact with visual entertainment. He discussed the need for writers to get their foot into the door when it comes to receiving their fair share of the "digital dollar" and what the digital future will look like.

You can listen to the episode by pressing pressing the play button below.




Or you can download the episode directly at the Geekerati website or on iTunes.

Rob Long is a writer and producer in Hollywood. He began his career writing on TV's long-running "Cheers," and served as co-executive producer in its final season. During his time on the series, “Cheers” received two Emmy Awards, and two Golden Globe awards. His most recent television series were "George and Leo," starring Bob Newhart and Judd Hirsh, “Love & Money,” on CBS, and “Men, Women & Dogs,” on the WB Network – all three of which he created with his writing partner, Dan Staley. Their production company, Staley/Long Productions, was based at Paramount Studios from 1993 to 2001, and is currently based at ABC Studios. In addition, he and his partner have served as creative consultants on numerous programs. Mr. Long has been twice nominated for an Emmy Award, and has received a Writers Guild of America award.

He has co-written several feature film scripts, including “Just a Shot Away,” currently in pre-production with a France-based production company.

His first book, Conversations with My Agent, chronicled his early career in television. It was published in the UK by Faber & Faber, in the US by Dutton, and in France by Actes Sud. His second book, Set up, Joke, Set Up, Joke, was published in November 2005 by Bloomsbury. He is also a co-founding partner in Madison Road Entertainment, an integrated advertising production company.

He is a contributing editor of National Review, Newsweek International, and the Los Angeles Times and writes occasionally for the Wall Street Journal and the BBC Radio Times (UK). His weekly radio commentary, “Martini Shot,” is broadcast on the Los Angeles public radio station KCRW, and is distributed nationally. It’s also podcast in iTunes, and can be found here: http://www.kcrw.com/show/ma

In addition to his work in television, film, and politics, Mr. Long is also a new media entrepreneur. His limited partnership venture, Yurth.com, is a fast-growing video site that combines videos, entertainment, news, and information all in a dynamic map-based interface. It can be found at Yurth.com.

He speaks often in front of trade, political, and community groups, including National Review Institute, CATO Institute, the Wednesday Morning Club, the Los Angeles Public Library Foundation, and the “Conversations/Design” Series on topics ranging from Hollywood and politics, screenwriting, contemporary media, and “how to break into the entertainment industry.”

Mr. Long graduated from Yale University, and spent two years at UCLA School of Film, Theater and Television, where he occasionally serves as an Adjunct Professor of Screenwriting. He serves as co-president on the Board of Directors of My Friend’s Place, an agency for homeless teens in Hollywood and is on the board of the American Cinema Foundation. He’s also an active and passionate member of the Southern Foodways Alliance.

What You Should Watch/Read/Play

Tonight's episode of Geekerati, themed "What You Should Watch, Read, and Play," will feature an interview with James Lowder who edited Hobby Games: The 100 Best for Green Ronin Publishing. James will discuss the upcoming book, which will be released on September 15th, and give us some thoughts on what he thinks we should all be watching, reading, and playing, as will all of our regular panelists. Give a listen and see what we think, or give us a call at(646) 478-5041 during the show.

The show starts at 7pm Pacific and airs for an hour. You can listen to an archive of the episode approximately 20 minutes after the show airs, this is largely due to our "bonus footage" conversation which makes the recorded show last 20 minutes longer than the aired show.

Pre-Comic Con Geekerati Radio Show

Your friendly panelists at Geekerati will be attending the San Diego Comic Con this week. Listen as we discuss the conference events we plan to attend and who we hope to recruit as future guests on the show.

While the name Comic Con immediately brings to mind DC, Marvel, and various independent comic book companies, the convention has become a broad popular culture experience in recent years. Yes, the comic powerhouses are all present, but so are the SciFi Channel and numerous film and television companies who use the con as a place to promote their movies and shows. This year that list includes the BBC's Torchwood series, Zack Snyder's upcoming Watchmen movie, a screening of the new TV show Chuck and a lot more.

Listen in tonight at 7pm to hear what panels we plan on attending and call in to let us know if you will be attending. Is there an interview you would like us to attempt to attain? A particular "exclusive" you would like us to acquire as a give-away on a future episode of Geekerati Radio? Let us know.

Comic Con Approaches and I Must Plan My Days

In two weeks, I'll be heading down to San Diego for my annual trek down to Comic Con International. The Con just released the schedule of events, and once again I am forced to make tough decisions as to what panels I will be attending. There is so much interesting going on, but only so much time in the day. The schedule also usually makes me choose between two or more panels that I want to attend. In short, until I become Madrox the Multiple Man there will always be some events that I will miss.

That being the case, I have to begin planning my days early. First step? Finding the events that really interest me. Here is a list, by day, of the events I'd really like to attend. In case you're wondering, there are events that I am interested in that aren't listed here, but those are typically events that I think would be "nice" to attend. The events listed below are events I really want to see.

For those of you who are wondering why I want to attend all of these podcasting and webcasting panels, it's because I have my own online radio show where my friends and I discuss geeky topics. Come join us at Geekerati, call in, chat, and get free stuff.

Thursday, July 26

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

Thursday has a lot of events I want to see. I am a big Bernie Wrightson and Harryhausen fan, but I'm interested in Cloverfield and Spiderwick Chronicles as well. I might have to do some "half panel" attendance. Bill Cunningham, over at DISContent, says that Torchwood is so bad it causes retinal damage so I might be able to skip that panel. Choices, choices, choices.

Friday, July 27

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

Saturday, July 28

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

Saturday is an enormously busy day filled with tough choices. Sunday, on the other hand is "Kids Day" though I do want to watch the Flash Gordon premiere at the end of the day.

Sunday, July 29

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

Then it's back on the train and back to Glendale.