SDCC Plans

I am going to blog what panels I would want to go see next week at San Diego. Most of you probably don’t care.

But if you don’t care about comics, then you probably don’t care about me.

We probably won’t be there for part of Thursday and I know some of the sessions are at the same time, I just wanted to have a listing of the ones I am interested in.

Check the extended entry for the info.

Thursday

1:00–2:30 Seduction of the Innocent— It’s been 50 years since Dr. Fredric Wertham penned the book that some say changed the comic industry. See rare video footage of Wertham and hear a discussion of his book with Kurt Busiek (Astro City), Dwight Decker (Disney Comics), Al Feldstein (EC Comics editor), and Grant Geissman (EC authority). Moderated by Mark Evanier. Room 9

2:30–3:30 Spotlight on Dave McKean— His profound and sometimes-disturbing covers for Sandman changed the face of American comics. Dave McKean’s work revolutionized comics with his use of photography, collage, and digital art. He appears at Comic-Con 2003 as a special guest in celebration of the 10th anniversary of Vertigo, but this artist/writer/filmmaker has so many plates spinning that you’ll want to follow him around from panel to panel all weekend long to find out what’s next! Room 1AB

2:30–3:30 DC Direct Brainstorming Session— As comics’ top producer of action figures, statues, minibusts and more, DC Direct is always looking for new ways to bring DC characters to life. Join Georg Brewer (VP, design and retail product development), Syndee Barwick (director, product management, DC Direct), Ed Bolkus (senior art director, DC Direct), and Anne-Marie Philis (product manager, DC Direct) for this lively brainstorming session! Room 19

3:00–4:30 Historical and Alternative History Fiction in Comics— This panel will discuss what goes into making a historical or alternate history comic book: the research involved (time, process, sources), narrative decisions (what to leave out, what to change, and in the case of alternate histories, where to diverge from recorded history), and artistic considerations (costumes, art styles, what to do about people, places, and artifacts that may not exist anymore, or never did)—everything it takes to bring the reader into another time period that’s either gone, never was, or may still yet be. Panelists include Jai Sen (The Golden Vine, The Malay Mysteries), Eric Shanower (Age of Bronze, Oz graphic novels), Thomas Yeates (Universe X, Zorro) B. Clay Moore and Steven Griffin (Hawaiian Dick). Johanna Draper Carlson moderates. Room 2

4:00–5:30 CAC #3:The Wold-Newton Universe: A Unified Field Theory for Pulps, Comics, and Science Fiction— Did you know that Superman (Hugo Danner) secretly owns DC Comics? That Lex Luthor, who is also the Kingpin, secretly owns Marvel Comics? And that Kingdom Come metaphorically depicts their struggle for market share? Peter Coogan (Fontbonne University) and Jean-Marc L’Officer (Black Coat Press) show how scholars discover the hidden truths that lie behind our favorite fictions by continuing the “creative mythography” of Philip José Farmer, who founded the field of Wold-Newtonry with his twin biographies Tarzan Alive! and Doc Savage: His Apocalyptic Life. Room 7A

4:30–5:30 DC: Beyond Capes and Cowls— DC Comics publishes comics in a wide variety of genres beyond its core super-heroes, including fantasy, crime, science fiction, war, humor, and much more! Discover the power of diversity in this panel moderated by Vertigo editor Will Dennis, with the writer/artist teams of Wendy and Richard Pini (Elfquest) and Kurt Busiek and Carlos Pacheco (Arrowsmith); writers Greg Rucka, Andy Diggle, and Mike Carey; and artists Scott Hampton (Life Eaters), Michael Lark (Gotham Central), and Amanda Conner (Two-Step, MAD magazine). Room 1AB

5:30–7:00 Comic Reviewer Websites— In a rare event, reviewers from some of the most influential and widely read comic sites on the web come together to discuss their craft. Moderated by Adam Messano of WellredPress.com, this panel includes Augie De Blieck Jr. of ComicBookResources.com, Heidi MacDonald of The Pulse (www.comicon.com/pulse), Greg McElhatton of iComics.com, and Adrienne Rappaport of SequentialTart.com. Joining these reviewers is former Marvel editor and writer Tony Isabella, creator of DC’s Black Lightning and long-time writer/reviewer in both print media, (Comic Buyer’s Guide) and on the web (www.wfcomics.com). The reviewers will discuss their review philosophy, as well as writing for an online audience. Review writing for the web is unique, as discussion and feedback can be given instantaneously through chat rooms and message boards, creating an unprecedented level of interaction between reviewers and readers. Room 8

Friday

10:30–11:30 DC One-on-One: Geoff Johns and Judd Winick— Geoff Johns and Judd Winick have established their own corner of the DC Universe with two of DC’s biggest launches of the summer of 2003: The Outsiders and Teen Titans. Join Judd and Geoff for this one-on-one interview and Q&A session! Room 1AB

10:30–11:30 AACC: DC’s Silver Age— The American Association of Comicbook Collectors looks back at the rebirth of the superhero in the late 50s through the 60s. The panelists were all actively involved with DC’s Silver Age: Julius Schwartz, also known as “Mr. Silver Age,” a key editor at DC; Carmine Infantino, artist on The Flash, Adam Strange, and the new-look Batman before becoming publisher; Murphy Anderson, who made The Atomic Knights and Hawkman his characters and was a key inker for all the major DC characters; Ramona Fradon, whose unique style was seen on Aquaman throughout the 50s and early 60s, followed by Metamorpho and the DC Plastic Man revival; and Russ Heath, best known for his war work but who also worked on Sea Devils and Silent Knight. Moderated by the AACC’s David Armstrong. Room 8

11:30–12:30 Batman: A Knight in Gotham— From the best-selling, hard-hitting renderings of Jim Lee to the stark shadows of Eduardo Risso, the Dark Knight continues to be portrayed in distinctive styles. Find out what’s in store for Batman in this panel hosted by group editor Bob Schreck, with writers Brian Azzarello, Ed Brubaker, and Greg Rucka and artists Michael Lark, Jim Lee, Eduardo Risso, the Pander Brothers, and more. Room 1AB

12:00–1:00 ComicBase User Group Meeting— Meet ComicBase developer Peter Bickford and get in-depth information on ComicBase 8, the latest version of the ultimate software for comic collectors, encompassing an encyclopedia, price guide, and management system for comics. Hear all about the latest features, additional data, and upgrade options, and tips and tricks for making the program work to fit your needs as a collector. Additional information about ComicBase is also available at booths 1207 and 1209 in the Exhibit Hall, and via the Internet at www.comicbase.com. Room 19

12:30–2:00 Vertigo’s 10th Anniversary— From its launch, Vertigo has been comics’ leader in cutting-edge comics and graphic novels for mature readers. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Vertigo looks to the future. Learn what’s coming for Vertigo in this slide presentation with VP, executive editor Karen Berger, group editor Shelly Bond, and editor Will Dennis; writers Neil Gaiman, Grant Morrison, Brian Azzarello, Bill Willingham, Brian K. Vaughan, Mike Carey, Andy Diggle, and David Tischman; writer/artist Jill Thompson; and artists Eduardo Risso and Marcelo Frusin. Room 1AB

1:30–3:00 CAC #5: Comicons, Critics, and Classrooms: Different Forms of Comics Education— Bart Beaty (University of Calgary) examines the historical, national, and cultural roots of cultural value and definitions of art as education as they manifest in European comics festivals and pose interesting challenges to the way in which comics are displayed and promoted in North America. Ana Merino (Appalachian State University) studies the cultural, artistic, and critical voice of The Comics Journal through the editorials and interviews of Gary Groth to consider in the contemporary critical and intellectual reality of comic art. Jason Tondro (University of California-Riverside) explains the ongoing Cesar Chavez Celebration Through the Arts Project, in which high school students create comic books to explore comics as literature, the legacy of Chavez, and the complex issues of adolescence. Room 7A

4:00–5:00 Cup o’ Joe (Quesada)— Marvel editor-in-chief Joe Quesada sits down to talk about whatever you the fans want to ask. Joe shoots from the hip and never pulls punches. Find out what’s happening at Marvel right now and what’s in store for the future straight from the man himself! Room 1AB

4:30–6:00 Henson Presents: Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean’s MirrorMask— MirrorMask, a Jim Henson Pictures production, is a new fantasy feature film in the tradition of The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth scheduled for worldwide release in 2004. Renowned comic book writer and best-selling novelist Neil Gaiman and critically acclaimed multimedia artist Dave McKean created the story of an unforgettable journey through a world filled with magic, fantastic creatures, and illusion. Gaiman wrote the screenplay and McKean is directing the film using a combination of live-action and CG animation. This program offers an exclusive first look at images from the film, as well as a question-and-answer session with the creators and producers, including Gaiman, McKean, and executive producers Lisa Henson (Good Boy!) and Michael Polis (Kermit’s Swamp Years). Room 6CDEF

5:30–7:00 Spotlight on Grant Morrison — One of comics’ most prolific writers, Grant Morrison is best known for his work on DC’s Vertigo line (including Animal Man and The Invisibles) and his resurrection of the JLA. Currently he’s the writer of the New X-Men for Marvel and is finishing up his run on the maxiseries The Filth for Vertigo. Outspoken and controversial, Morrison will talk about his work and whatever else he damn well pleases! Room 9

8:30–10:30 2003 Will Eisner Comics Industry Awards—It’s the gala ceremony for the “Oscars” of the comics industry, featuring a keynote speech by Neil Gaiman, celebrity presenters, the Manning and Clampett Award, and of course Will Eisner himself. Room 20

Saturday

10:30–11:30 Marvel Blockbuster— Marvel EIC Joe Quesada holds an intimate Q&A with two of comic books biggest stars. Join Brian Michael Bendis (Ultimate X-Men, Ultimate Spider-Man, Ultimate Six, Daredevil), J. Michael Stracyznski (Supreme Power, Amazing Spider-Man) and possibly some special surprise guests, as they discuss their current and upcoming high-profile Marvel projects with one another and take questions from the audience. Room 6B

11:30–12:30 Paramount: Lara Croft Tomb Raider The Cradle of Life— Angelina Jolie will be appearing in person to talk to fans and preview her second outing as everyone’s favorite adventuress in Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Room 20

11:30–12:30 Smallville— Warner Bros. Television and The WB invite you to watch the exciting and action-packed top-ten all-time best moments from The WB’s hit series Smallville (airing 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on Wednesdays this fall), followed by a question-and-answer session with executive producers Al Gough and Miles Millar (Shanghai Knights, Spider-Man movies), co-executive producer Mark Verheiden (The Mask, Timecop), consulting producer Jeph Loeb (Commando), and surprise appearances by member of the Smallville cast! Get a chance to win the upcoming Smallville: The Complete First Season DVD collectors’ set from Warner Home Video. Plus, catch a special sneak preview of The WB’s highly anticipated new series Fearless and Tarzan and Jane. The first 1,000 people to attend this session will also receive a double-sided, limited-edition Smallville poster! Room 6B

12:00–1:00 Spotlight on Neil Gaiman— Okay, it’s official. Neil Gaiman holds the record for most panels and events at this year’s Comic-Con. But you knew that, didn’t you? Hear the man himself as he gives you the lowdown on everything from 1602 to Sandman: Endless Nights, from Mirror Mask to The Wolves in the Walls. It’s all here! Room 6A

12:30–2:00 Kevin Smith— He’s baaaack! And even we don’t know what he has planned. Maybe he’ll tell us about Ben and Jen in his upcoming movie, Jersey Girl. Maybe he’ll talk about his new house. Maybe he’ll tell us about his comics shop. You’ll have to ask him. All we know is Kevin Smith is back at Comic-Con (and aren’t you glad?). Room 20

1:30–2:30 J. Michael Straczynski: Jeremiah— Join Comic-Con special guest J. Michael Straczynski and writer/co-producer Samm Barnes as they discuss the Showtime Original Series Jeremiah. A post-apocalyptic series set after the Big Death, Jeremiah begins its second season in late August/early September. It stars Luke Perry, Malcolm Jamal-Warner, and Sean Astin. Room 6B

2:30–3:30 Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski— One of Comic-Con’s favorite annual guests, J. Michael Straczynski, will regale audience members with anecdotes about his comic book work (Amazing Spider-Man, Supreme Power), television series work, and much more. Room 6B

3:30–5:00 Sony: Spider-Man 2, Hellboy, and Underworld— Spider-Man 2’s director Sam Raimi will be on hand to talk about Spidey’s next adventure, versus. one Dr. Otto Octavious. Sony/Revolution is also bringing Mike Mignola’s Hellboy to the big screen and Mike will be here to give you the very first look at Guillermo Del Toro’s action/horror film currently in production. Kicking the session off will be a look at Screen Gems’ Underworld, an intense thriller featuring warring clans of vampires and werewolves in a postmodern city. At its heart, a love story emerges between a beautiful vampire warrior and a mysterious young werewolf. Stars Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman will be joined by director Len Wiseman, Kevin Grevioux (story/associate producer/co-star) and Danny McBride (story and screenplay). Room 20

3:30–4:30 Dark Horse Presents: Joss Whedon— Meet Joss Whedon, the Oscar-nominated, Hugo Award–winning creator behind such hit series as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Firefly! Last year Joss made his comics debut with the smash-hit Fray from Dark Horse. With the Buffy series finale being one of the most talked about television events of this year, you won’t want to miss this exclusive Q&A! Room 6CDEF

4:30–5:30 Buffy and Angel writers: The Demise of Buffy and the Mystique of Angel— Join an adventure into the minds behind the words as Buffy and Angel scriptwriters reveal all. Hear how they took Angel’s one-shot guest role on Buffy into a spinoff—and laid seven seasons’ worth of track for that last big train (bus?) ride to the Hellmouth. Panelists include David Fury (writer, producer, actor, director), who has worn all hats for Buffy and is now executive producer for Angel’s fifth season; Steven S. DeKnight, writer/director/producer for Angel and writer for Buffy’s fifth and sixth seasons; co-writers Sarah Fain and Elizabeth Craft, who have written for Angel since Season 4; Jeffrey Bell, writer/producer/director for Angel, promoted to co-executive producer and new head writer at the start of Season 4; Drew Goddard, writer for Buffy in its seventh season; and Ben Edlund, writer/producer/director (best known as the creator of The Tick), who Ben joined Angel in 2002–03. Sponsored by CityofAngel.com and moderated by Buffy and Angel book author Nancy Holder. Room 6CDEF

4:30–6:00 DC Comics: Taking It to the Next Level— There’s never a dull moment for the heroes of the DC Universe! Discover what’s in the offing for Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and so many more of your favorite superheroes in this slide show presentation moderated by DC’s VP for sales and marketing Bob Wayne, with editorial VP Dan DiDio and group editor Eddie Berganza; writers Brian Azzarello, Ed Brubaker, Max Allan Collins, Geoff Johns, Joe Kelly, Jimmy Palmiotti, Bill Willingham, and Judd Winick; plus artists Colleen Doran, Jim Lee, and Mike McKone. Room 1AB

Sunday

We are leaving. But it would have included Eliza Dushku. So sad.