Monday, July 18, 2011
Comic Con and Captain America
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Op-Ed: Illegal Video from SDCC
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
SDCC 2010 Wrap-Up
This article is not trying to be breaking news. If you wanted that, you are better off on a site like Deadline, Slash Film, Collider, Latino Review or Heat Vision Blog who are in the business of pushing movies. I'm here instead to bring my opinion on upcoming movies that I am genuinely interested in. There is absolutely no peddling here, just my impressions from my experience at SDCC 2010. Take a look at my what I saw over four days at this year's San Diego Comic Con after the break...
Friday, July 24, 2009
SDCC New Moon Panel
I am one of the few guys out there that will openly admit that I enjoyed the Twilight movie. I must say, I did not like the books. They felt like a teenage version of a Danielle Steel novel, but the movie was pretty darn good. Twilight even made my list of Top 50 Films of 2008, so I definately was going to have to brave 6,000 screaming fans in Hall H if I wanted to see anything from the "Twilight Saga: New Moon". The Summit Panel itself featured three films; Astro Boy, Sorority Row and New Moon. Both Astro Boy and Sorority Row were glazed over very quickly in ensure a majority of the dedicated 1 hour long panel to "New Moon". Checkout what happened during the panel below...
First things first, the footage shown was good. Director Chris Weitz introduced both clips and it was apparent that Summit planned on pleasing all of the young girls in the audience with both clips showing the leading men taking off their shirts. The first clip featured Jacob teaching Bella to ride a dirt bike. During the lesson, Bella is warned by a vision of Edward not to ride the motorcycle. Bella however, takes off on the dirt bike and begins to see flashes of Edward which force her off the motorcycle. Jacob rushes to her side to find her head bleeding. Jacob then removes his shirt (insert 4,000 girls screaming) and comforts Bella. Bella in-turn apologizes for bleeding, which Jacob tells her there is no reason to apologize. The second clip shown, featured Bella and Alice in Italy rushing to save Edward. In the clip, Edward is about to step into direct sunlight shirtless and it fades to black just as Edward's foot hits the light with Bella only seconds away. The crowd went nuts over both clips shown and more importantly the clips prove that "New Moon" should be equally entertaining as the first film.
Director Chris Weitz did refer to his last film, and said that this time fans would definately not get a studio cut to the film like in Golden Compass (nice shot at New Line Weitz). Weitz also explained that they will remain very close to the book here in "New Moon". Chris Weitz said, "Our fidelity to the books is the key to making the movies works." Weitz stated he enjoyed working with the cast, which much of the rest of the panel was focused on.
In the "Twilight Saga: New Moon" Jacob Black takes on a whole transformation and most of the panel was spent talking about Jacob shirtless in the Vancouver Rain. Director Chris Weitz told the crowd that Taylor Lautner wanted to do just about every stunt he could. Launter and Kristen Stewart also joked about Launter's heavy work out routine which he was under for the role of Jacob Black. Launter was asked what he learned about Native Americans by playing a Quileute and he said, "they were just like him," and adding that he does speak in the native language in the film.
The cast was asked if what they were looking forward to about the next films and each gave a some varying responses. Ashley Greene who plays Alice Cullen said is reallying looking forward to working with 30 Days of Night director David Slade, while Taylor Launter said he is looking forward to the height of the love triangle pointing to the "sleeping bag scene." Kristen Stewart seemed a bit more whimsical with a response of “I can’t wait until I get pregnant” leaving Robert Pattinson to joke how excited he was for "being involved in the Caesarian."
Overall I found the cast to be dull. Pattinson mumbled the entire time and spent most of his just time making charming smiles trying to conjure up screaming from all the pubescent girls in the audience. Most of his answers were incoherent and left little reason to even pay attention to his inability to saying anything of relevance. Kristen Stewart gave her best Paula Abdul impression by very much seeming like she was under the influence of something. I will say Stewart looks great with the Joan Jett hairdo (I can't wait to see how The Runaways turns out), but her constant fidgeting and spacey answers just left me wondering what pills she was popping. Taylor Launter was at least able to answer coherently, but he just seemed all to thrilled to boast about him filming with his shirt off and how hard he trained. I can't blame the guy, he is afterall only 17. If I was 17 and had that many girls throwing themseleves at me, I'd most likely be a royal douche too.
After the Summit Panel finished, I had been in Hall H for nearly 5 hours. My ass was drained of any feeling whatsoever, my stomach was twisting and gurgling in hunger, my ears were ringing from all of the screaming during the Twilight panel and I had yet to even visit the Exhibit Hall. So I promptly decided to skip the over-hyped Avatar panel and get the hell out of Hall H to go check out the floor and grab a bite to eat. Below I have posted some "Twilight Saga: New Moon" photos that were previously released by Summit Entertainment prior to Comic Con.
What say you? Are you excited for more Twilight? Did you line up in the massive line for Hall H Thursday moring? Strikeback...
SDCC 'TRON Legacy' Panel
Last year at Comic Con during the Disney/Pixar panel fans were treated to test footage of a new TRON film. The crowd at Comic Con went absolutely bonkers at the sheer enjoyment of having a new TRON film. The surge of enthusiasm surrounding the said footage forced Disney into actually making the film. This year at Comic Con director Joseph Kosinski along with Flynn himself Jeff Bridges was on hand to show fans new concept art from the film now titled "TRON Legacy" and an exclusive clip from the movie. Checkout what Joseph Kosinski, Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund and other cast had to say below...
The panel opened by featuring the new logo for the film which was a bit of a teaser trailer revealing the new title and logo. Director Joseph Kosinski told attendees that prinicple photography on the film is finished but there is a ton to do in post-production. Kosinski then showed about 5 new pieces of amazing concept art. Most of the stuff shown reassured fans that the vechiles, cityscapes and design would remain true to the original film, but obviously being very much updated. I loved the look of everything shown especially the tournament setup they had for our favorite disc war with up to 16 different competitors playing at once. The new Light Cycle and LightRunner both look fantastic is design as well. (Some other sites have released these photos, but until better higher resolution stills are released, I will wait to post them.)
Jeff Bridges confirmed that he plays the father of Garrett Hedlund Sean Flynn, who has been looking for his father since he vanished into TRON back in 1982. Steven Lisberger who directed the original TRON was also in attendence and he said that the update is very much a perfect sequel to his first film. Kosinski later showed some footage to the film, which featured Garrett Hedlund going back to a very familar place from the original film. No we didn't see him in TRON, but he goes to his father's old arcade Flynn's Arcade where he finds the original TRON game. Kosinski told the crowd that the footage is very early on in "TRON Legacy" and unfortunately did not have much else to show. Kosinski after being asked about choosing Daft Punk for the "TRON Legacy" score by a panel question, revealed that the group had already written 24 brand new tracks for the film. He also confirmed amazing news that the band would do a TRON tour to coincide with the film. Despite only a minimal amount of footage, what was shown was perfect. TRON was one of the first films I really remember going to see and having a huge impact on me. After the new footage, the crowd was re-shown the footage from last year's Comic Con which led to production on a sequel. Seeingthe footage for a second time in 3D was perfect! As an added treat, I have embedded the footage shown at 2008 Comic Con, check it out below...
SDCC 'Wonderland' Panel
Yesterday morning by 7 am fans were lined up clear around the Convention Center to get into Disney's first ever 3D Panel in Hall H.The line also was massive due to the fact the Summit Entertainment panel including the "Twilight Saga's New Moon" was following the Disney panel). Within the panel fans were treated to our first ever 3D look at Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland". The footage shown was cut a bit differently to the released trailer (embedded below) and matched with the music of MGMT's Time to Pretend instead of Depp's narrating. Both the trailer released online and the footage seen at Comic Con are fantastic taste of what is in store in Burton's Wonderland.
During the panel moderated by Patton Oswalt Tim Burton gave fans a bit of a surprise when he brought out Johnny Depp for fans to see. Sadly, that was all Johnny Depp did was come out and wave to fans. Would've been much happier to have allowed him to actaully talked instead of just smiling and waving. Burton told the crowd he felt very much like the White Rabbit constantly watching his ticking clock trying to finish this film in time. Most of the questions asked of Burton were pretty lame and gave the crowd no real informative news we did not already know.
The footage shown was brilliant! I love the colors, the characters and the world Tim and his team have created. One worry that did loom after watching the footage twice was, there seems to be a lot of Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter. For some, that might be a positive thing, but for me I just hope Burton doesn't turn "Alice in Wonderland" into the Depp show. It has seemed apparent that Burton tends to rely heavily on Depp and I hope that doesn't become a downfall of this film. Outside of the heavy Mad Hatter footage, I cannot wait for "Alice in Wonderland" to release March 5th, 2010. Checkout the released trailer below...
SDCC 'Wild Things' Doc Short
"Where the Wilds Things Are" is easily one of the best children's books of all time and it looks like the film just may be in the same department. Comic Con Attendees today were treated during the Warner Brothers panel some clips from the Spike Jonze directed film along with this documentary short that I have embedded below. The 3 minute short is absolutely breath-taking and from what I have heard from friends in Hall H during the panel so was the footage shown. Fans of the book have been long awaiting someone to come along and this most beloved book justice and it appears that Jonze has done just that. Checkout the documentary below...
What say you? Are you a Where the Wild Things Are fan? How close to tears did you come watching this short? Strikeback...
Friday, July 17, 2009
Burton Talks 'Alice' at SDCC
We all know that Tim Burton himself will be at Comic Con for the Disney 3D panel Thursday July 23rd that includes most importnatly, "Alice in Wonderland" and "Tron". What we didn't know (until now), was what exactly would Mr. Burton be showing at the Disney panel. Tim Burton talked with MTV about attending 2009's Comic Con in San Deigo and what he will be bringing with him. Read what Tim Burton had to say below...
Tim Burton tells MTV that he will indeed be bringing footage of "Alice in Wonderland" to show fans in attendance. Don't get too excited, because Burton tells MTV, there isn't a whole lot to show. He said, "[It’s] a kind of a semi-trailer." He explained, "It’s where we’re at at the moment. There’s not a lot of footage to show." So, it turns out while we will get to see some footage from the sequel to the original Lewis Carroll novel, it won't be much. Burton went on to tell MTV that the reason not much footage is available yet, is due to the 3D processing. "It’s a strange process we’re dealing with. We’re using a mix of techniques. If you picked them apart, each technique has been done before. We’re mixing them up, in a way." Tim Burton closed his talks with MTV by wishing that he had more for fans. He said, "I wish we had more footage to show. It’s a real mysterious puzzle that’s frightening and exciting at the same time." I am sure it is, especially with Burton at the helm! Read the entire interview over at MTV
What say you? Will you be at the Disney 3D panel Thursday? Strikeback...
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sat & Sun Comic Con Schedules
Yesterday and today the official Comic Con website finished releasing the 4 day event's programing schedule. So below I have complied a few highlights from both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday is very heavy on television with Lost, Heroes, True Blood, Weeds and Chuck panels throughout the day, but the heavy hitter is "Iron Man 2" panel in Hall H. Also take notice of some of the evening on site events including screenings of the director's cut of "Watchmen" and also Tom Jane's latest film "Give 'Em Hell Malone". Sunday has been dubbed Kids Day and quite honestly, is a disappointing line-up. Regardless, checkout the highlights from Saturday and Sunday's programing schedule below...
Saturday July 25th's Scheduling Highlights:
10:00-11:00 Chuck Screening and Q&A— Chuck returns to Comic-Con! executive producers and co-creators Josh Schwartz (Gossip Girl) and Chris Fedak are joined by series stars Zachary Levi (upcoming Alvin and the Chipmunks ), Yvonne Strahovski (upcoming I Love You Too), Joshua Gomez (Without a Trace), Ryan McPartlin (Super Capers), Mark Christopher Lawrence ( The Pursuit of Happyness ), Vik Sahay ( This Is Wonderland ) , Scott Krinsky ( The O.C. ), Sarah Lancaster ( Everwood ) , and Adam Baldwin (Serenity) for a Q&A to discuss season three and screen an exclusive retrospective highlight reel. Plus, don't miss a special surprise from some of your favorite characters! Produced by College Hill Pictures, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Chuck airs Mondays at 8:00 PM ET/PT on NBC. Ballroom 20
11:00-12:00 Lost: The Final Season Begins, with Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse— In appreciation of all the fan support through five seasons of Lost, co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producer Carlton Cuse will pay homage to all the fans at their final Comic-Con appearance for Lost. Questions will be answered. Fun will be had. And you won't want to miss the surprises in store for the audience! Hall H
11:15-12:00 Family Guy— Seth MacFarlane and the brilliant creative minds behind Family Guy present a raucous discussion of what goes on behind the scenes of TV's most subversive animated hit. They'll also be offering a not-to-be-missed sneak peek at "Something, Something Dark Side," the Empire Strikes Back parody follow-up to Star Wars: Blue Harvest. Giggity! Ballroom 20
11:30-12:30 Marvel: Dark Reign— The Cabal has taken over the Marvel Universe and forever changed it. Now, Norman Osborn has his LIST and is taking everyone down who stands in his way. What lies on the horizon? Find out here as the creators behind the madmen and women putting the Marvel Heroes through their paces answer your questions and let you in on what happens next! Joe Quesada, Rick Remender (Dark Reign: The List), Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man), Jason Aaron (Dark Reign: The List), Frank Tieri (Dark Reign: Made Men), Joe Casey (Dark Reign: Zodiac), Marvel editor Alejandro Arbona, and others shed some light on Dark Reign! Room 6A
12:30-1:30 Hasbro: Marvel— Michelle Favaloro and Scott George (Hasbro Marketing), along with Joshua Lamb, Dave Vonner, Logan Lubera, and Dwight Stall (Hasbro Design), present the latest toys from the Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, Wolverine, Marvel Universe and Super Hero Squad toy lines from 2009. Also, see a sneak peek into the 2010 line! Room 5AB
1:30-2:30 Miramax: Extract— Mike Judge, the creator of such comedy classics as Office Space, Beavis and Butthead and King of the Hill is back with his latest film Extract starring Jason Bateman (Arrested Development), Mila Kunis (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), and Kristen Wiig (Saturday Night Live). Join Judge and his cast for a discussion and first look at scenes from their new film. Hall H
1:30-3:00 Glee— When FOX aired a special preview of its subversive new comedy musical series Glee after the American Idol finale, the response was through the roof, and fans have hungered for another episode ever since. The wait is over! Stars Matthew Morrison, Lea Michele and Cory Monteith and the producers of the FOX hit present a sneak preview screening of a never-before-broadcast episode with panel discussion to follow. Don't Stop Believin', Comic-Con fans! Glee is here! Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
2:15-3:15 Gerard Way— The creator of The Umbrella Academy talks about the next arc of his award-winning series with Gabriel Bá, announces his new project, and fields questions from the audience. Room 6DE
2:45-3:45 V Pilot Screening and Q&A— Already one of the most talked-about new series of the upcoming television season, catch a special screening of the pilot episode of V, a re-imagining of the groundbreaking miniseries, followed by a Q&A with stars Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Morris Chestnut (The Cave), Joel Gretsch (The 4400), Morena Baccarin(Firefly), and Scott Wolf (Go), along with executive producers Scott Peters (The 4400), Jeffrey Bell (Alias), Steve Pearlman (Related) and Jace Hall (Chadam). From HDFilms in association with Warner Bros. Television, V will premiere midseason on the ABC Television Network. Ballroom 20
2:45-3:45 Sony Pictures: Zombieland and 2012— Sony Pictures previews two exciting new movies at Comic-Con!
Zombieland —What if the Zombies won? Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) has made a habit of running from what scares him. Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) doesn't have fears. If he did, he'd kick their ever-living ass. In a world overrun by zombies, these two are perfectly evolved survivors. But now, they're about to stare down the most terrifying prospect of all: each other. Also starring Emma Stone and Abigal Breslin as two sisters who seem to constantly cause even more trouble for our erstwhile heroes. Appearing on stage: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and director Ruben Fleischer.
2012—Director Roland Emmerich has tried to destroy civilization before, but nothing you've seen will prepare you for what he has in store for the world in 2012. Never before has a date in history been so significant to so many cultures, so many religions, scientists, and governments. 2012 is an epic adventure about a global cataclysm that brings an end to the world and tells of the heroic struggle of the survivors. Roland will be onstage to reassure us it's all make-believe...we hope.
Hall H
3:15-4:15 Heroes: Exclusive First Look at "Redemption" and Q&A with Tim Kring and Castmembers— Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an amazing roller coaster ride as Heroes debuts a trailer for "Volume 5: Redemption." Participate in a Q&A session with creator Tim Kring and some of the cast. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
3:30-4:30 Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day— In the sequel to the cult classic The Boondock Saints, director Troy Duffy brings back Sean Patrick Flanery (Suicide Kings, Powder), Norman Reedus (American Gangster, Blade 2), and Billy Connolly (The Last Samurai) and introduces Carlo Berardinucci, Clifton Collins Jr. (Star Trek, Crank 2) as a new partner-in-crime, and Julie Benz (Rambo, Punisher 2, Saw) as the sexy FBI operative who is hot on their trail. Join Troy and the cast for a panel discussion about the new film and the world premiere of the trailer. Room 6DE
4:00-5:00 Fringe Screening and Q&A— Fringe cast members Anna Torv (upcoming The Pacific), Josh Jackson (Shutter), and John Noble (The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King) appear with consulting producers Alex Kurtzman and Robert Orci (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) and executive producers Jeff Pinkner (Lost) and J. H. Wyman (Keen Eddie) for a Q&A with fans and an exclusive video presentation. Join the discussion of this critically acclaimed thriller, which explores the ever-blurring line between science fiction and reality, where hybrid monsters tear through sewers, thieves walk through walls and portals open to worlds unknown. From Bad Robot Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Fringe airs Thursdays at 9:00 PM ET/PT this fall on FOX, premiering September 17. Fringe: The Complete First Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray Hi Def September 8. Ballroom 20
4:00-5:00 Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment: Iron Man 2— Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the sequel to the blockbuster film based on the legendary Marvel superhero Iron Man. Directed by Jon Favreau, Iron Man 2 stars Robert Downey Jr. Joining Downey in the cast are Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Jon Favreau, Clark Gregg, John Slattery, Mickey Rourke, and Samuel L. Jackson. Hall H
4:30-5:30 Mike Mignola: Hellboy— The creator of Hellboy talks about upcoming projects and what's next for the Beast of the Apocalypse. Mike Mignola and his long-suffering editor Scott Allie provide an overview of the coming year and an always frank Q&A session! Room 4
4:45-5:55 Human Target Pilot Screening and Q&A— Join Human Target stars Mark Valley (Fringe), Chi McBride (Pushing Daisies) and Jackie Earle Haley (Watchmen), the show's executive producers Jon Steinberg (Jericho), Brad Kern (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman) and Peter Johnson (Supernatural: Origins Comic Book Series), and co-creator of the original Human Target comic, Len Wein (Swamp Thing), for an exclusive Q&A and a screening of the highly anticipated pilot based on the popular DC Comics title about a mysterious agent for hire who assumes different identities, literally becoming a human target on behalf of his clients. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Wonderland Sound and Vision, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Television, Human Target will air Wednesdays at 9:00 pm ET/PT beginning in January 2010 on FOX. Room 6BCF
5:15-6:15 True Blood Panel and Q&A session— Just as it seemed things were settling down in the backwoods Louisiana town of Bon Temps, deadly new twists and evil forces have begun to threaten Sookie Stackhouse and everyone around her. Mixing romance, suspense, mystery, and humor, True Blood kicked off its 12-episode second season on June 14 on HBO. The series, which earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Television Series—Drama for its debut season, follows the romance between waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin, the X-Men films; Golden Globe-winner for True Blood season one; Oscar-winner for The Piano), who can hear people's thoughts, and her soul mate, 173-year-old vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer, The Starter Wife). Alan Ball (creator of the Emmy-winning HBO series Six Feet Under) created and serves as executive producer of the series, which is based on the best-selling Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. The series also features Nelsan Ellis (The Soloist) as Lafayette Reynolds, Rutina Wesley (How She Move) as Tara Thornton; Sam Trammell (Medium, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) as Sam Merlotte; Michelle Forbes (In Treatment, Battlestar Galactica) as Maryann Forrester; Alexander Skarsgård (Generation Kill) as Eric Northman and Deborah Ann Woll (The Mentalist) as Jessica Hamby. Moderated by Kate Hahn of TV Guide. Ballroom 20
5:15-6:45 Kevin Smith— Direct from New York City, where he's directing the new Warner Bros. film A Couple of Dicks starring Bruce Willis, Seann William Scott, and Tracy Morgan, Kevin Smith returns to the Hall H stage for his annual report to the masses. And remember: he flew in just for YOU. Hall H
6:00-7:15 Adult Swim Development: The Venture Bros. Panel— Fans will get the chance to hear from the Adult Swim development team and get a first look at upcoming Adult Swim programming. Nick Weidenfeld, director of development, and Matt Harrigan, executive producer/series writer, will give highlights of what's in the tube for fall 2009. Then Venture Bros. co-creators Jackson Publick and Doc Hammer, James Urbaniak (voice of Dr. Venture) and Mike Sinterniklaas (voice of Dean Venture), will also be on hand to discuss the hit series The Venture Bros. and give fans insight into its future. Vice president of production for Adult Swim Keith Crofford moderates. Room 6A
6:30-7:30 Black Dynamite— He's super cool and he knows kung-fu! When "The Man" murders his brother and floods the ghetto with adulterated malt liquor, Black Dynamite is the one hero willing to fight all the way from the blood-soaked city streets to the hallowed halls of the Honky House. Michael Jai White (The Dark Knight) stars as Black Dynamite, a gun toting, nunchuck-wielding ladies' man and soul brother. Director and writer Scott Sanders (Think as Thieves) is joined by cast members including Arsenio Hall, Tommy Davidson (In Living Color), Byron Minns (Undisputed), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (I am Legend), moderator Elvis Mitchell, and more! Room 5AB
8:00-9:00 Showtime: Weeds— If you are addicted to Weeds, this is the panel you don't want to miss! Find out everything you want to know with a Q&A and interview with the series creator and its stars! Featured panelists include Jenji Kohan (creator/executive producer), Hunter Parrish (Silas), Justin Kirk (Andy), and other cast members. Weeds airs on Mondays at 10:00 pm on Showtime. Indigo Ballroom / Hilton Bayfront
8:30-12:15 Watchmen: Director's Cut—Live with Zack Snyder! Plus Sneak Peek of Batman: Arkham Asylum with Mark Hamill & Kevin Conroy— Get the ultimate inside track on two landmark Warner Bros. releases with the world premiere screening of Watchmen: Director's Cut and a first-look panel for the breakout Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment game Batman: Arkham Asylum. The festivities will open with a Batman: Arkham Asylum panel led by the benchmark voices of Batman and the Joker, Kevin Conroy (Batman: The Animated Series) and Mark Hamill (Star Wars), as well as award-winning writer Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series). Then Watchmen director Zack Snyder, legendary illustrator Dave Gibbons and actor Jackie Earle Haley discuss the nuances of the film's Director's Cut— which hit stores on July 21. And for the pièce de résistance, Snyder will host a BD Live Community event—providing a real-time, in-person director's commentary for Comic-Con attendees (and BD Live viewers at home) as the film rolls. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions of Snyder via computer kiosks within the room, making for an entirely interactive viewing experience. Room 6BCF
8:45-11:45 HBO's True Blood Presents: The San Diego Comic-Con International Masquerade— Fabulous original and re-created costumes crafted by our talented attendees appear on stage before an audience of thousands, with impressive awards and cash prizes bestowed to those judged most outstanding. Doors will open for audience seating at 8:15 PM, but the line will start much earlier! Tickets will be required for seating and will be given out free to those lining up near Ballroom 20 beginning at 4:30 PM. Masters of Ceremony are writers/artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio of Studio Foglio, and halftime entertainment will feature special advance movie previews, behind-the-scenes films, and more. (Overflow seating available in Rooms 5AB, 6A and in the Sails Pavilion.) Ballroom 20
10:00-12:00 Give 'Em Hell Malone Screening and Panel— Catch an exclusive early screening of the upcoming noir-action film Give 'Em Hell Malone, followed by a Q&A with stars Thomas Jane (The Punisher) and Chris Yen, along with director Russell Mulcahy (Highlander) and writer Mark Hosack. Room 6D
Sunday July 26th's Programming Highlights:
10:30-11:30 Smallville Screening and Q&A— Comic-Con favorite Smallville returns, as showrunners Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson join cast members Allison Mack (The Ant Bully), Erica Durance (House of the Dead), Cassidy Freeman (Finishing the Game: The Search for a New Bruce Lee), Justin Hartley (Gemini Division) and new series star Callum Blue (The Tudors), who will be playing the villainous Zod, to talk about the year ahead, answer fan questions and give an exclusive sneak peek at clips from season nine. Award-winning comic book writer, Emmy-nominated film and television writer/producer, and Smallville alum Jeph Loeb (Heroes) will moderate the session. From Tollin/Robbins Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Smallville will air Fridays at 8:00 PM this fall on The CW, premiering September 25. Smallville: The Complete Eighth Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray Hi Def August 25. Room 6BCF
11:00-12:00 Emily the Strange— Fiends, strangers, and oddballs, lend Emily your ears! She'll give them right back after this panel! Fans of underground icon Emily the Strange won't want to miss this eclectic panel featuring Emily creator Rob Reger, Dark Horse editor Shawna Gore, artist Buzz Parker, and writer Jessica Gruner as they discuss what the future holds for Emily. Get a first look at the new Dark Horse comic series, the new series of Emily novels from HarperCollins, The Art of Emily book, an update on the progress of the Emily movie, and more! All attendees will be entered into a drawing to win a prize package including a complete library of Emily books from Dark Horse and other great stuff from Cosmic Debris! Room 2
11:15-12:15 Nickelodeon Presents: SpongeBob, Fairly OddParents, and The Penguins of Madagascar— You won't want to miss this screening of your favorite Nickelodeon shows, including a never-before-seen episode of SpongeBob SquarePants, as Plankton tries yet again to bring down the Krusty Krab. Then be the first to watch Timmy and his fairies in a brand new Fairly OddParents episode. But wait, there's more! You'll also catch the gang from The Penguins of Madagascar on one of their latest adventures in the Central Park Zoo. Room 6DE
1:00-1:30 Overture Pictures: Paper Heart— Despite professing a belief that she's incapable of love, comedian and actress Charlyne Yi finds herself falling for "Michael Cera," played by Michael Cera, in this intoxicating mix of documentary, improvisation, and romance. Charlyne Yi, producer/co-writer Nick Jasenovec, and co-star Jake Johnson will be onstage to show clips and pursue the ultimate question: Does true love really exist? Ballroom 20
1:30-2:00 Image: Alien Trespass— Directed by X-Files veteran R. W. Goodwin and filmed in classic fifties sci-fi retro style, Alien Trepass is being released on DVD & Blu-ray by Image. If you love such vintage sci-fi epics as It Came From Outer Space and The Blob, come learn more about this tale of an Interstellar lawman whose deadly prisoner, the grotesque Ghota, escapes when their flying saucer crashes near a small desert town in 1950s California. Appearing for the first time: Emmy Award-winning actor Eric McCormack (Will & Grace, Andromeda Strain, and star of fan favorite Free Enterprise) joining co-star Jenni Baird (The 4400) and director R. W. Goodwin. Ballroom 20
2:15-3:45 BBC America: Being Human/Torchwood— You won't want to miss these special back-to-back panels on Being Human and Torchwood! Being Human creator Toby Whithouse and cast members Russell Tovey, Lenora Crichlow and Aidan Turner appear on stage to give an inside look at BBC America's U.S. premier sci-fi drama about the lives of three twentysomethings and their secret double-lives—as a werewolf, a vampire, and a ghost. Following that, Torchwood actor John Barrowman, creator/writer/executive producer Russell T Davies, executive producer Julie Gardner, and director Euros Lyn talk about the making of the epic five-night television event Torchwood: Children of Earth as well as take questions from the fans. Ballroom 20
For Saturday July 25th's full programing schedule (click here)
For Sunday July 26th's full programing schedule (click here)
What say you? What panels will you be attending Saturday or Sunday? Strikeback...
Friday, July 10, 2009
Friday Comic Con Schedule
Yesterday Comic Con officially released Thursday July 23rd's schedule. This morning they updated it and released Friday July 24th's schedule as well. Friday is official Star Wars day and outside of some cool Star Wars stuff, the day looks to be a let down compared to Thrusday's lineup. More imoprtantly, friday is quickly becoming my floor day, where I can spend hours searching for exclusive Mini Mates among other toys and comics I desire for my collection. Checkout out some highlights from Friday's schedule and why some panles were switched around for Thursday below...
Thursday had some definate problems in scheduling when Twilight's New Moon was set to follow Disney's 3D panel and James Cameron's Avatar panel. The reason for concern arised when fans remembered last year when Twilight fans camped out over night to be the first people in Hall H. This is all well and good, but Twilight fans took up a lot of space and forced some people to miss panels they would have otherwise not missed if it were not for Twilight fans taking up seating space in Hall H. To quickly avert this happening again, the James Cameron Avatar panel will now follow Summit Entertainments panel including New Moon. This should allow for both fans of the Twilight Saga and people hell bent on catching a glimpse of Avatar to get a decent shot at seeing the panels. What Comic Con didn't change was Disney's 3D panel including Alice in Wonderland. So sorry Wonderland fans, you are going to have to fight off Twilight fans for a spot in Hall H Thursday morning. So James Cameron's Avatar panel is now scheduled for 3pm and Summit's panel is now at 1:45pm.
Here's some highlights from Friday's scheduling program:
10:00-11:00 Batman: The Brave and the Bold Screening and Q&A— Gotham takes over San Diego as Diedrich Bader (Surf's Up), the voice of Batman, returns to Comic-Con alongside John DiMaggio (Futurama), the voice of Aquaman, and executive producer Sam Register (Teen Titans), producer James Tucker (Justice League Unlimited), producer and story editor Michael Jelenic (The Batman) and voice director Andrea Romano (Superman Doomsday). Fans can catch the world premiere screening of the upcoming "Mayhem of the Music Meister" episode—featuring the voice of Neil Patrick Harris (Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog) as the Music Meister—and enjoy a lively discussion and Q&A with the show's dynamic creative team. From Warner Bros. Animation, Batman: The Brave and the Bold airs Fridays at 8:30 pm ET/PT on Cartoon Network. Batman: The Brave and the Bold Volume 1 will be released on DVD August 25. Room 6DE
10:00-12:30 Warner Bros.— Join WB for a look at their much anticipated slate of upcoming genre films, including Where The Wild Things Are, The Book of Eli, A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Box, Jonah Hex, and Sherlock Holmes. Hall H
11:15-12:15 Marvel: X-Men— The streets have erupted in violence and the safe haven that mutants thought they'd found is in turmoil. The Dark Avengers have put Daken in Wolverine's place, and there's an all-out war tearing through space and time with a certain red-haired green-eyed girl at the center of it. You've got questions and these people have answers! X-Men group editor Axel Alonso is joined by a host of creators to lay out what's going on and resurrect a beloved—well, that would be telling! You need to hear it for yourself! Panelists include Matt Fraction (Dark Avengers/Uncanny X-Men: Utopia), Craig Kyle and Chris Yost (X-Force), Marjorie Liu (Dark Wolverine), Daniel Way (Deadpool), Jason Aaron (Wolverine: Weapon X), and more on this all-new, all-deadly panel! Room 6DE
11:30-12:30 Image Comics Show— The world's greatest creator-owned comics publisher returns to San Diego with a flurry of announcements, including an exclusive look at the biggest crossover event of the year: Image United by creators Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead), Todd McFarlane (Spawn), and Rob Liefeld (Youngblood). In addition, Image superstars Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows), Tyrese Gibson (Mayhem), and Ben Templesmith (Fell) give you the first word on many of their upcoming projects. The Image Comics Show will be the first place to get your first sneak peek at Whilce Portacio's superhero series emerging from Image United, Fortress! Room 5AB
11:45-12:45 Caprica/Battlestar Galactica: The Plan— The present meets the past as the makers of Battlestar Galactica deliver the highly anticipated Syfy original series, Caprica and the 2-hour event, Battlestar Galactica: The Plan, directed by Edward James Olmos. This is your chance to get the inside scoop on these exciting projects and see two generations of Adamas on stage together for the first time. Executive producers Ronald D. Moore, David Eick, and Jane Espenson sit down with Caprica star Esai Morales (Joseph Adama) and Battlestar Galactica's Edward James Olmos (Admiral William Adama), director of The Plan, to reveal the truth about these two new chapters in the mythology of BSG. Ballroom 20
12:00-1:00 The Great Transformers/G.I. Joe Crossover— Giveaways and announcements pack this panel with more excitement than Snake Eyes versus Starscream! If you've ever enjoyed G.I. Joe or Transformers, then come on down and learn about all the cool new things going on with both—from comics to video games to cool movie prop memorabilia! Flint Dille (G.I. Joe, Transformers original cartoons), Robert Atkins (G.I. Joe artist), Mike Costa (G.I. Joe, Transformers writer), and others present a look at the road ahead for both franchises, courtesy of IDW. Room 32AB
12:45-2:15 DisDisney: Animation Panel— Walt Disney Pictures, Disney•Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios present a director panel with previously unseen footage from its upcoming animated slate, including Toy Story & Toy Story 2 – Double Feature, Beauty And The Beast, Toy Story 3, Prep & Landing, The Princess and the Frog and Ponyo. Special guests include Lee Unkrich, Kirk Wise, Ron Clements, John Musker, and Hayao Miyazaki. John Lasseter hosts the panel, with Patton Oswalt moderating. Hall H
1:45-2:45 Robert Rodriguez— Join famed director Robert Rodriguez (Spy Kids) for a first look at his upcoming family film Shorts, followed by Q&A. Room 6DE
2:30-3:30 Focus Features: 9— Focus Features and Comic-Con present an exclusive look inside director Shane Acker's animated fantasy epic 9, the feature-length expansion of his short film of the same name. Directors Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov are among the feature version's producers. The action-packed adventure—opening nationwide 9/9/09—takes place after our world fell to pieces, when a group of "stitchpunk" creations must summon individual strengths well beyond their own proportions. While showcasing a stunning steampunk-styled visual brilliance, 9 dynamically explores the will to live, the power of community, and how one soul can change the world. Join Shane Acker, Tim Burton, Timur Bekmambetov, and actors Elijah Wood and Jennifer Connelly LIVE for this panel presentation! Hall H
3:45-5:00 Sony Pictures Entertainment: Legion and District 9— Sony Pictures Entertainment and Screen Gems introduce two great new movie projects exclusively to Comic-Con attendees!
Legion—When the last angel falls, the fight for mankind begins. Having lost faith in the human race, a legion of angels descend to Earth to bring about the Apocalypse. Humanity's only hope lies in a group of strangers trapped in a desert diner and the Archangel Michael himself (Paul Bettany). Appearing on stage: Paul Bettany (A Beautiful Mind, The DaVinci Code), Adrianne Palicki (Friday Night Lights, Supernatural), Tyrese Gibson (Transformers, Death Race), Doug Jones (Silver Surfer in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer and Abe Sapien in Hellboy), and director Scott Stewart (helming his first feature film after working on VFX for Sin City, Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, and Iron Man, among many others). From Screen Gems.
District 9—Peter Jackson makes his eagerly and long-awaited first visit to Comic-Con to introduce you to the world of District 9, which focuses on a world in which extraterrestrials have become refugees in South Africa. Thirty years ago, aliens made first contact with Earth. Humans waited for the hostile attack or the giant advances in technology. Neither came. Instead, the aliens were refugees, the last survivors of their home world. The creatures were set up in a makeshift home in South Africa's District 9 as the world's nations argued over what to do with them—as well as their powerful technology and advanced weaponry that can only be activated by Alien DNA. Please join Peter Jackson as he gives fans a first look at scenes from District 9 and takes your questions along with director Neill Blomkamp and star Sharlto Copley. From Sony Pictures Entertainment. Hall H
4:00-5:15 Dollhouse— Join Dollhouse creator Joss Whedon and star/producer Eliza Dushku for a no-holds-barred Q & A about what they have planned for season 2, after they unveil a special screening of the never-before-seen "Epitaph One" episode of the Fox hit, which releases on DVD just four days later. Ballroom 20
4:15-5:15 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles— This look at the whole spectrum of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (from comics to toys to TV to movies to video games) celebrates the 25th anniversary of the world-famous brand. Moderator Gary Richardson (CEO, Mirage Studios) discusses the evolution of the Turtles with those people instrumental in the characters' incredible success. Panelists include Kevin Eastman (co-creator of TMNT), Lloyd Goldfine (supervising producer, 4Kids Productions), Steve Barron (director of the original TMNT movie), Karl Aaronian (senior VP of marketing, Giochi Preziosi U.S.A.), Matt Leunig (associate producer, Ubisoft), and Galen Walker (producer of new TMNT movie slated for 2011). Room 6DE
5:15-6:00 Joss Whedon— After the Dollhouse presentation, stick around for 45 minutes of information and Q&A with Joss Whedon about his upcoming Dark Horse Comics projects! Ballroom 20
5:15-6:15 Lucasfilm: Star Wars Spectacular— Get all the latest news from the Star Wars universe—including some of Lucasfilm's most tightly guarded secrets—in an all-new show format! Special guest hosts G4's Olivia Munn and Kevin Pereira grill a galaxy of guests from The Clone Wars and beyond, including supervising director Dave Filoni, plus voice talent from the show and more! See a live table-read of an exclusive new Clone Wars script—leading directly into the series' second season! Find out about the worldwide Star Wars Concert Tour, the latest Star Wars games from LucasArts, upcoming DVD (and Blu-ray!) releases and more! And become a part of Star Wars history with your own Saga stories and movie memories! It's an all-new, interactive Star Wars Spectacular! Hall H
6:30-7:30 Entertainment Weekly: The Visionaries— A discussion with iconic filmmakers James Cameron (Avatar) and Peter Jackson (District 9) on the Future of Film—EW moderates an in-depth conversation with these two cinematic giants about the art of film narrative and how technology and global culture will alter the art of on-screen storytelling in the next 20 years. Hall H
Nighttime Programing:
8:30-10:00 Star Wars Fan Movie Awards— The Star Wars Fan Movie Award Ceremony at Comic-Con International is always entertaining, and often studded with surprises. Each year the top prize, the George Lucas Selects Award, is chosen by Star Wars writer/director George Lucas, and finalists wait with anticipation to learn who will win industry and audience recognition and the coveted Star Wars-themed trophies. The Movie Challenge, sponsored by Lucasfilm and Atom.com, is in its eighth year. Don't miss the most entertaining Star Wars fan-made movies out there! Ballroom 20
To see Friday's full schedule head over to Comic Con's official site.
What say you? How will you spend your Friday? Planning on attending Comic Con this year? Strikeback...
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Thursday Comic Con Schedule
The official Comic Con website is currently working on releasing the full schedule to their programming for the weekend. While they work out the last minute changes and updates the official website has released Thursday's full schedule of Panels for 2009. Some highlights include an Astro Boy panel, Disney's 3D panel, Hasbro's G.I. Joe panel, DC's Superman: Two Worlds panel, 20th Century Fox and James Cameron present Avatar panel, Summit Entertainment panel including the Twilight Saga's New Moon, Terry Gilliam's The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus panel and a Kick-Ass panel with Nicolas Cage and finally a Park Chan-wook's panel for Thirst. Also take note of the night time programing with a exclusive screening of Michael Dougherty's Trick r' Treat, which is yet to even hit theaters. Comic Con is always a spectacle and a blast and this tiny taste of what's in store only increases our anticipation. Scroll down and see some details on Thursday's programing.
Here's some highlights from Thursday's Programing Schedule:
10:15-11:15 Summit Entertainment: Astro Boy— A superhero origin story set in a futuristic world, Astro Boy is an all-new CG-animated feature film based on the classic manga about a young robot with incredible powers and his adventure-filled journey in search of his identity and destiny. Director David Bowers, producer Maryanne Grager, and stars Freddie Highmore (Astro) and Kristen Bell (Cora) debut footage exclusive to Comic-Con 2009 and answer your questions about bringing this beloved hero to the big screen. Room 6BCF
11:00-12:30 Disney: 3D Panel— Walt Disney Pictures presents key filmmakers, select cast members and previously unseen footage from its upcoming slate, including Disney’s A Christmas Carol, Alice In Wonderland and Tron. Special guests include Robert Zemeckis, Tim Burton, Sean Bailey, Steve Lisberger, and moderator Patton Oswalt. Hall H
11:30-12:30 Hasbro: G.I. Joe— The Hasbro design and marketing teams—Aaron Archer and Michelino Paolino (Hasbro Design), and Jeff Labovitz (Hasbro Marketing), discuss the upcoming release of the G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie, the new toy line hitting shelves, the new video game, and much more! This panel will include special guests that you won't want to miss, plus Q&A time. Room 7AB
11:45-12:45 DC: Superman: Two Worlds— Torn between New Krypton and Earth, the Man of Steel has only just begun his latest adventure. You've seen the stories: a new planet of Kryptonians; scores of super-powered beings. The people behind Superman's future are here to face the most trying times in his life. Meet the talented folks behind Superman as they give you a glimpse of what is in store for our favorite Super-family. Featuring Superman group editor Matt Idelson, writers Geoff Johns (Adventure Comics, Superman: Secret Origins), Greg Rucka (Action Comics), James Robinson (Superman), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Renato Guedes (Superman), and more! Room 6DE
12:45-2:00 20th Century Fox and James Cameron present Avatar— In this first public screening of footage in 3D from his much-anticipated action/adventure/fantasy, James Cameron, producer Jon Landau, and cast members take you to a spectacular new world beyond imagination. Conceived 14 years ago and over four years in the making, Avatar breaks new ground in delivering a fully immersive, emotional story and reinvents the movie-going experience. Hall H
2:15-3:15 Summit Entertainment— Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage of some of its upcoming major film releases!
Astro boy—A classic superhero origin story set in a futuristic world, Astro Boy is an all-new CG-animated feature film about a young robot with incredible powers and his adventure-filled journey in search of his identity and destiny. Join Freddie Highmore and Kristen Bell as they premiere the final trailer for Astro Boy before it's in theaters.
Sorority Row—When five sorority girls inadvertently cause the murder of one of their sisters in a prank gone wrong, they agree to keep the matter to themselves and never speak of it again, so they can get on with their lives. This proves easier said than done, when after graduation a mysterious killer goes after the five of them and anyone who knows their secret. Join the cast of Sorority Row as they debut footage from the film exclusive to Comic-Con 2009.
The Twilight Saga: New Moon—Summit Entertainment is proud to present the panel for The Twilight Saga: New Moon, the highly anticipated sequel to last year's box office smash Twilight. Surprise members of the cast will answer your questions about the second film in the series and debut never-before-seen footage from the new film.
3:00-4:00 Robot Chicken with Titan Maximum— Seth Green (co-creator, Robot Chicken and Titan Maximum), Matthew Senreich (co-creator, Robot Chicken and Titan Maximum), Tom Root (head writer, Robot Chicken/co-creator, Titan Maximum) and Doug Goldstein (head writer, Robot Chicken) with Chris McKay, Breckin Meyer, Kevin Shinick, Mike Fasolo, and Dan Milano discuss the popular Adult Swim series Robot Chicken. They will also discuss the upcoming new stop-motion animated series Titan Maximum, slated to premiere on Adult Swim this fall. Join this meet-up of show creators, writers and voice actors for a Q&A, moderated by Keith Crofford, vice president of Adult Swim production. Room 6A
3:30-4:30 J. Michael Straczynski: Professional Writing— Ideas are a dime a dozen. Executing those ideas (instead of assassinating them) is what separates pro from wannabe. But only you know what steps you need to take to get there, so if you show up for this talk, bring questions to ask J. Michael Straczynski, who has created a massively successful cross-platform writing career in movies, television, comics, and print. Room 7AB
4:45-5:15 Terry Gilliam's The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus— Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of both Comic-Con and Monty Python, we welcome the sole American Python, the great animator and director Terry Gilliam (Time Bandits, Brazil, 12 Monkeys) to introduce you to his new film starring Christopher Plummer, Johnny Depp, Heath Ledger, Colin Farrell, Jude Law, Verne Troyer, Tom Waits, and Lily Cole. Dr. Parnassus is a fabulous anachronism, touring the streets of modern-day London in a horse-drawn carnival wagon accompanied by his beautiful daughter, devoted dwarf, and neophyte barker. On stage Parnassus plays a holy man whose Imaginarium can realize the innermost fantasies of all who dare to enter. Backstage, he is a drunkard, a gambler who centuries ago lost a wager with the Devil and must now pony up with his daughter once she turns sixteen. Tomorrow. Yet, there may still be hope for the Doctor and Valentina in the person of Tony, a well-dressed amnesic they rescue from a perilous fate and invite into their world of unrelenting magic and possibility. Hall H
5:00-6:00 Showtime: Dexter— Calling all Dexter fans! If you're a Dexter fanatic and can't wait for the new season, you don't want to miss this killer panel! Moderator Ralph Garman (KROQ Entertainment Reporter) presides over a revealing interview and Q&A session with the stars and executive producers of Dexter. Plus, get an exclusive first look at clips from the new season! Featured panelists include series star/executive producer Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Julie Benz (Rita), Jennifer Carpenter (Deb), and executive producers John Goldwyn, Sara Colleton, Clyde Phillips, and Melissa Rosenberg. The new season premieres September 27 at 9:00 PM EST/PST only on Showtime! Ballroom 20
5:15-5:45 Overture Pictures: Pandorum— Don't fear the end of the world. Fear what happens next. From the producers of the Resident Evil film franchise comes a terrifying thriller in which two crewmembers wake up on an abandoned spacecraft with no idea who they are, how long they've been asleep, or what their mission is. The two soon discover they're actually not alone—and the reality of their situation is more horrifying than they could have imagined. Appearing in person to give you a taste of Pandorum are stars Ben Foster (X-Men: The Last Stand, 3:10 to Yuma, 30 Days of Night), Cung Le (The Ultimate Fighter), and Antje Traue. Pandorum is in theaters September 18. Hall H
5:45-6:45 Kick-Ass— World premiere footage from Kick-Ass, based on Mark Millar's bestselling comic, is presented by director Matthew Vaughn (Stardust, Layercake). Joining him on the panel are Nicolas Cage, Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Superbad), and comic co-creator John Romita Jr., among others, including a surprise guest. You don't want to miss the chance to be the first to experience this gritty, brash, and funny actioner. Hall H
6:30-7:00 Focus Features: Thirst— Focus Features and Comic-Con present a rare U.S. appearance by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook, whose "scandalous vampire melodrama" Thirst just won the Prix du Jury (Jury Prize) at the 2009 Cannes International Film Festival. Sang-hyun (played by top Korean star Song Kang-ho, of The Host) is a priest who cherishes life; so much so, that he selflessly volunteers for a secret vaccine development project meant to eradicate a deadly virus. But the virus takes the priest, and a blood transfusion is urgently ordered for him. The blood he receives is infected, so he lives—but now exists as a vampire. Sang-hyun soon plunges into a world of sensual pleasures, finding himself on intimate terms with the Seven Deadly Sins. Park will show clips from the movie— which opens in select cities on July 31—and discuss his career. Hall H
8:00-9:30 Green Lantern: First Flight World Premiere— Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Animation proudly present the World Premiere of Green Lantern: First Flight, the fifth DC Universe animated original PG-13 movie. Green Lantern: First Flight finds Hal Jordan recruited to join the Green Lantern Corps and placed under the supervision of respected senior Lantern Sinestro. The earthling soon discovers his mentor is actually the central figure in a secret conspiracy that threatens the philosophies, traditions and hierarchy of the entire Green Lantern Corps. Hal must quickly hone his newfound powers and combat the treasonous Lanterns within the ranks to maintain order in the universe. Christopher Meloni (Law & Order: Special Victims Unit) leads the cast as the voice of Hal Jordan aka Green Lantern. The cast includes Emmy Award nominee Victor Garber (Milk, Titanic), Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica), Michael Madsen (Reservoir Dogs), Juliet Landau (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and John Larroquette (Night Court). Produced by animation legend Bruce Timm, Green Lantern: First Flight is directed by Lauren Montgomery (Wonder Woman) and scripted by four-time Emmy Award–winning writer Alan Burnett (The Batman). Warner Home Video will release Green Lantern: First Flight on Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD on July 28, 2009. Ballroom 20
9:30-12:00 Halloween Comes Early: Trick 'r Treat Screening— Be among the first to see writer/director Michael Dougherty's (Superman Returns, X2) creepy, darkly comic celebration of the scariest night of the year. Trick 'r Treat takes the Creepshow/Tales from the Crypt approach to nefarious new depths with four interwoven tales set on Halloween night: a high school principal who moonlights as a vicious serial killer; a young virgin whose quest for that special someone takes a gruesome turn; a group of teens who carry out a cruel prank with disastrous consequences; and a cantankerous old man who battles a mischievous trick-or-treating demon. Prior to the screening, Ain't It Cool News mogul Harry Knowles will moderate a panel featuring Michael Dougherty and members of the cast, including Anna Paquin (True Blood, X-Men), Tahmoh Penikett (Battlestar Galactica, Dollhouse), and Brian Cox (The Bourne Identity, X2). A collection of creepy stories that mixes fun with fear, candy with poison, and laughter with screams, the critically acclaimed Trick 'r Treat will be released on Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD and On Demand by Warner Home Video in October. Ballroom 20
To see the Thursday's full schedule checkout Comic Con's official site.
What say you? Are you attending Comic Con this month? Looks like Hall H is gonna be packed all day! What panel are you most look forward to? Strikeback...
WB's Comic Con Panels
Warner Brothers released their Comic Con 2009 lineup at the end of last month, but since I was on vacation I never had a chance to post the news. So below I have complied WB's panels for you via Slash Film & IESB. WB has a few different panels including the premerie of WB's & DC animated film "Green Lantern: First Flight", a 3D panel for the 4th Final Destination film, a panel with Robert Rodriguez for lhis latest film "Shorts" and finally a huge panel with all of WB's lineup of films including; "Where the Wild Things Are", "A Nightmare on Elm Street", "The Book of Eli", "The Box", "Jonah Hex" and "Sherlock Holmes". For the details on WB's 4 different panels checkout more below...
Thursday, July 23
3:30pm-4:30pm 3D SHOWCASE PRESENTATION IN HALL H
Film: The Final Destination
Talent: Craig Perry (producer)
Thursday, July 23
8:00pm-9:30pm WARNERS BROS. WORLD PREMERIE PRESENTATION IN BALLROOM 20
Film: Green Lantern: First Flight
Friday, July 24th
10:15am-12:30pm WARNER BROS. PRESENTATION IN HALL H
Films: Where The Wild Things Are, The Book Of Eli, Nightmare on Elm Street, The Box, Jonah Hex, Sherlock Holmes
Talent: TBD
1:45pm-2:45pm PRESENTATION AND Q & A W/ ROBERT RODRIGUEZ IN ROOM 6DE
Film: Shorts
Talent: Robert Rodriguez (director)
What say you? Will you be hitting all of the WB's panels? Friday's is not to be missed! Strikeback...
Disney's Comic Con Panels
This year's Comic Con is quickly approaching and while we count down the days, Walt Disney Pictures has released today via Business Wire their agenda at the massive event. That's right and I have it for you below. Walt Disney Productions will have the first ever 3D panel at Comic Con featuring Disney's upcoming 3D slate including "Alice in Wonderland", "A Christmas Carol" and the one were all waiting for "Tron". For those of you who have always wished to ask Tim Burton a question, fear not, because he will be apart of the 3D panel that is moderated by Oswalt Patton. A second huge treat is that legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki will be present at Disney's non-3D panel talking about his latest film "Ponyo". Miyazaki has created numerous outstanding animated films i.e. Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and my personal favorite Howl's Moving Castle. Checkout all the details for Disney's 2 huge panels planned for Comic Con at the end of the month.
- COMIC-CON’S FIRST EVER 3D PANEL — Veteran directors Robert Zemeckis and Tim Burton join TRON producers Sean Bailey and Steve Lisberger on Thurs., July 23 at 11 a.m. for an unprecedented presentation featuring behind-the-scenes filmmaker insights about the highly anticipated 3D adventures DISNEY’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, ALICE IN WONDERLAND and TRON. In addition to Q&A opportunities with each of the filmmakers, the 90-minute panel will feature never-before-seen concept art, trailers, actual 3D film footage and other Comic-Con-only footage debuts. In a groundbreaking technical feat, this is the first time ever that 3D footage will be shown at Comic-Con. Patton Oswalt will moderate.
- ANIMATION PANEL — Animation legends Hayao Miyazaki and John Lasseter join veteran animation directors Lee Unkrich, Kirk Wise, Ron Clements and John Musker on Fri., July 24 at 12:45 p.m. for an animation panel which will highlight upcoming animated films, including Disney•Pixar’s TOY STORY/TOY STORY 2 double feature, Disney•Pixar’s TOY STORY 3, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ half-hour holiday TV special PREP & LANDING, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG and Miyazaki’s PONYO. John Lasseter will host the panel and Patton Oswalt will moderate a group Q&A following the presentation, which will include filmmaker insights, trailers and select film sequences.
What say you? Will you be in attendance for these 2 amazing panels? Strikeback...
Monday, July 28, 2008
Best Thing at Comic Con 08!!
Thursady at Comic-Con in Hall H, in between panels for Disney's Race to Witch Mountain and Lionsgate/Marvel Hulk vs. Wolverine, fans were given quite a huge surprise that has been kept completely underwraps! The moderator came out to the crowd and said he had some extremely excluisve footage to show us. He said the film would be coming out sometime in 2009 and the lights went down. Buzzed filled the room quickly as fans turned and and asked others just what it could be. Security quickly scanned everybody to make sure all cameras and cell phones were off! (They have become far more strict when it comes to this in the last few years)
The following is a description of just what happened, when the lights went down!! The typical Disney logo comes up where we see the Magic Kingdom Castle and Tinkerbell does the sparkle arc over the castle, but this time it quickly shutters and begins to digitize! I instantly screamed out, "TRON 2!!!!" (Disney has always hinted at a sequel, but it has never really came to life, but the digitize instantly told me) The next frame is the huge layout of the electronic and digital world. We see a huge cliffside and a valley within it. The camera pans to a familar but updated Blue suit figure who gets onto Light Cycle. (At this point the entire crowd is going insane with joy!)
An updated Light Cycle battle ensues with the same blue and yellow cycles from the original Tron. The figures on the bike faces are not reveled. Instead of having the old football helmet looking helmets of the first Tron, these helmets cover the face with a shield. 
The yellow rider throughout this sequence is chasing the blue rider and the animation looks amazing while still being very true to the original film. During the cycle battle, the camera pans back up to see a figure kneeling and watching the battle. The camera comes from behind the figure and sweeps around to reveal a much older Kevin Flynn/Clu, (Jeff Bridges). Upon realizing that Jeff Bridges was infact in the long-awaited sequel, the crowd went absolutely nuts. The Cycle battle continued and used some of the same scenes from the first film. The two light cycles head straight for the face of the cliff, there is a slim hole that only one cycle will make it through. Unlike the orginial, when the blue cycle makes it through the small seem in the canyon, the yellow skids out and narrowly missing slamming into the wall of the canyon. 
The yellow rider then rides off. The scene cuts back to the blue rider trying to flee the area, except the yellow rider does catch up. The two ensue again in a bump and grind race until the yellow rider gains some edge and uses his light stream to knock the blue rider of his light cycle. At the point the blue rider his on his back and at the mercy of the yellow rider. The yellow rider gets off his cycle and approaches him. The blue racer still on his back pleads, "It's only a game!" The yellow rider's face is then revealed to be a younger version of Clu and he reply's, "Not this Time!," and strikes the blue racer with his Identity Disc! The shot fades to black and then to reveal the original TRON logo with a 2 fading in. The crowd again errupted with screams and applause as the lights came back up.The footage that was shown was absolutely breath taking! I had my mouth wide open through the whole thing and just kept saying in my head, "Oh My God, it's really happening!" Since I was a kid, I have loved TRON! Jeff Bridges is one of my favorite actors (He's the Dude), and the idea that he has come back as Clu is so awesome! Bridges looks to be the mastermind behind the digital world this time around. He definately was in a "zen-like" pose in his reveal, like he was controling the whole thing. Disney has done a great job of keeping this project hush-hush, but looks to be very good. Fans of the original and general movie goers will want to see this for sure! With computer technology and greenscreen work so common now, it seemed inevitable that Disney would sonner than later re-make, re-boot, or sequelize the very popular original. The film is suppose to release sometime in 2009 I would assume Summer or Christmas.
What are your thoughts on TRON 2? Are you excited for a sequel with Bridges? You seen the original? Have you seen it in the last 10 years?
Fanboys Save Cancer Cut!
Variety reported some great news yesterday, that the online and physical outcry of fans to see the original version of fanboys has worked! Weinstein Company alongside Trigger Street Productions will release the original "cancer cut" of Fanboys in theaters this September! This is a great victory for the director Kyle Newman and for fans alike, Fanboys has been in limbo for over two years now , and to finally see it released as intended is a sweet victory!
Last Thursday at Comic Con I attended the Fanboys screening of the cancer cut (Review Here). The screening was at maxium capacity and went over well. 
The crowd loved the film and really expressed their desire to see this version released in theaters. Kevin Spacey, whose production company Trigger Street is financing the release of the film, was on site and seemed very enthusiastic about the film and its vision. After the great response of fans from the screening, Weinstein Co has finally decided to keep the cancer angle in the film and release it as intended. Variety reports, "In the version screened for fans at Comic-Con, said to be the final cut agreed upon for theatrical release, pic is set in motion by the cancer plot device but avoids lingering on sentimental scenes toward the end."
The question now is will Fanboys play well for general audiences. I feel with the cancer angle in the film, it sets itself apart from the typical "Road Trip" comedies, and should get a good response from the general moviegoer. 
The film is very strong and has alot of great laughs all the way through. Being at the end of Summer it should have a strong pull at the box office up till Halloween. The film is also filled with tons of cameos including Carrie Fischer, William Shatner, Billy De Williams, Ray Parks, Seth Rogen, Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes. With a month or so till its release, Weinstein and Trigger Street should hopefully begin a strong campaign to get the word out on Fanboys. The film will play very well to teens, but I think anyone who has ever seen Star Wars or recently enjoyed "Family Guy's" Star Wars episode will want to see it too. I will be going to see this one again for sure!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Comic Con: Terminator Salvation Panel
Terminator Salvation was the 3rd panel in Hall H Saturday, and did not disappoint! As I strolled into Hall H, the Terminator music was pumping, and it really hightened the antcipation of the panel.
McG came out and began the panel by talking a little bit about what he had in store for the re-boot of the series. He stressed that he is trying to remain faithful to the framework setup in the first three films. He said that they are currently still filming in New Mexico, and have more than half of the film shot. He went on to ask the crowd if we wanted to see some footage from the new film. The crowd errupted in screams and cheers, the lights went down and the footage began.Much like the first trailer than released two weeks ago, Terminator Salvation is set in 2018 and looks to be very desolate and gritty. The footage shown established Sam Worthington's more and gave us our first look at Bale and Worthington on screen together. The film showed alot more footage of the T-600 (pictured above), the gatling gun that it has on its arm is wicked, and looks to provided a deadly punch. The footage also showed quite a bit of the new Kyle Reese played by Anton Yelchin and had a great moment where John Conner and his father come face to face for the first time. The trailer also sets up the resistence that Conner will lead and some of its members including Common playing Barnes and Moon Bloodgood as Blair Williams. The film looks to be very gritty and action packed and have kept the look of the future created in the first film. The trailer shown was about 3 to 5 minutes and had everyone in the Hall, screaming with excitement.
When the lights came back on McG brought out the full cast, minus Christian Bale, who was in Japan promoting The Dark Knight. He quickly said, "let's give him a call," and proceeded to pull out his cell phone. Bale didn't answer and it went straight to voicemail, but the crowd gave Bale a voicemail to remember, 6,500 people screaming for him!
The cast and McG went on to field questions about the origins and look of the new film. A few people asked about the internet rumors about the ending to the film and McG replied, "You know we do fake stories right?" He essentailly gave the same answer Bay recently had said, that the production companys are now putting out fake stories and campaigns to throw spoilers off the track. Another question asked if we would ever see Arnold back in the series. McG again was very coy saying, "there's always a possibilty and I am leaving it open for that."The look of the film is great, the intensity is definately there. I am hopefully McG will do good things with this film and Bale, Worthington, and Yelchin will propel it into a great series. Let's just hope it is better than 3, and both of McG's first try's at directing, Charlie's Angels 1 & 2! It is set to release Memorial Day weekend May 22nd 2009! As the tagline stipulates...The End Begins!
Thoughts on Terminator Salvation? Did you like McG before seeing this new footage? Are you amped for Terminator re-boot? Will Bale save Terminator like he did Batman?
Comic Con: Heroes Panel
To moderate the panel, famous comic book creator Jeph Loeb came out and began introducing the cast of Heroes. The entire cast was in attendance and all looked in very good spirits. The cast sat down to have Tim Kring creator of Heroes come on stage with a silver briefcase hand-cuffed to his left hand. Kring went on to address the crowd and said that he had a special surprise for everyone in attendance. He had in his briefcase the first full episode for Heroes: Villains and would show it in it's entirety. The crowd went absolutely apeshit as the lights went down and the episode started.The following is a spoiler free rundown of what went on during the episode. The cliffhanger ending to Season 2, of Nathan Petrelli shooting is clarified. Sylar continues his search for Claire and comes face to face with her. Maya and Suresh uncover a new way to isolate the hero gene. Hiro is given a new mission by way of a video message from his father and has been introduced to a new Villain, Speedster. Future Peter and present Peter continue to cross paths. Major reveals are given throughout and let's just say Heroes: Villains is gonna kick ass! I really can't say more without giving wat too much away (If you need to know, I am sure there are plenty of spoilers out there).
The lights came back up and the cast returned out on stage to a standing ovation from the crowd. The rest of the panel was cut short, because the panel had started late. Supposedly the entire cast of Heroes was stuck in the elevator (Heroes stuck in an elevator, now that's irony)!
There was only about 10 minutes of questions, and most of the questions asked, were more or less statements. One kid came up and said, "All I know is, Sylo rules!!!" Zachary Quinto gave an odd look, but in the next question another fan expressed her love for all things Sylar, and he corrected her saying, "I believe the correct pronunciation is Sylo." It probably was one of the more funnier moments of the panel. On our way out of the panel they gave the fans in attendance, Heroes Season 2 Exclusive dvd slip-covers. Tim Kring also said that the dvd of Season Two will release August 26th and will include the unknown episodes that never aired. Everybody in attendance seemed real pleased with the footage and were more than vocal during the screening. I myself am amped for this new season and cant wait to see it unfold. As a side note, later that evening I talked with Tim Kring's assisstant and he assured me the Season would blow my mind. He had read the entire season and said he seen the first 4 episodes and he loves them too! So needless to say, Heroes: Villains, should not disappoint.
Thoughts on Heroes? Do you watch the show on NBC? Did you attend the panel? What did you think? Was Season 2 a disappointment for you?
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