Mistwell
Crusty Old Meatwad (he/him)
Here is stuff I am willing/interested in checking out at Comic-Con this weekend that is sci-fi/fantasy film or television related. I am torn on several. So, if there is a particular thing you would like to hear about when I get back, let me know and I will try and go to that screening and take notes on it.
Friday
11:00-12:30 Warner Bros. Pictures Presents— In person, stars Hilary Swank and Anna Sophia Robb, director Stephen Hopkins, and producer Joel Silver of The Reaping, a supernatural thriller in which Hilary plays a world-renowned expert in disproving religious phenomena. But when she investigates a small Louisiana town that is suffering from what appear to be the Biblical plagues, she realizes that science cannot explain what is happening. Plus: Bryan Singer Returns! Please welcome long-time friend of Comic-Con, director Bryan Singer, to answer your questions about Superman Returns and give you an idea of what's next. Plus: more news and special promo items will be given to all who attend. Hall H
12:30-2:00 NBC: Heroes Pilot Screening and Q&A with Cast and Producers— Debuting on NBC this fall, the highly anticipated series Heroes chronicles the lives of ordinary people who discover they possess extraordinary abilities. Be the first to watch an exclusive 72-minute cut of the pilot episode, created specifically for Comic-Con. Join cast members Ali Larter (Final Destination), Greg Grunberg (Alias), Milo Ventimiglia (Gilmore Girls), Hayden Panettiere (Ice Princess), Sendhil Ramamurthy (Blind Guy Driving), and Masi Oka (Scrubs); creator/executive producer Tim Kring; executive producer Dennis Hammer; co-executive producer/comic book writer Jeph Loeb (Lost, Superman for All Seasons); and legendary comic book artist Tim Sale (Batman: The Long Halloween) for a Q&A session. Room 6CDEF
12:45-2:15 Twentieth Century Fox Presents— Twentieth Century Fox returns to Comic-Con in a big way, with a sneak peek of 4 of the studio's most anticipated 2006 and 2007 releases. Get your first look at the highly-anticipated Eragon with premiere footage and special appearances by actor Ed Speleers (Eragon) and Elizabeth Gabler, president of Fox 2000 Pictures. Next it’s Reno 911: Miami, the big screen version of the popular TV series, with special footage and appearances by Lt. Dangle, Deputy Travis Jr. and Deputy Trudy Wiegel. And then it’s Pathfinder with star Clancy Brown and director Marcus Nispel revealing footage of this fantastic epic. And last, but not least, it’s the one and only Borat and his new film, Borat, featuring special footage and a special appearance by ... you guessed it! BORAT! Hall H
2:00-2:30 Cartoon Network: Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends— Join Craig McCracken (creator) and Lauren Faust (supervising producer/writer) from the Emmy-Award winning series Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends for a Q&A. Also, come and see the voice of your favorite characters live and in person. Room 5AB
2:00-3:00 SCI FI: Battlestar Galactica— "The #1 television show of 2005"—Time magazine. "One of the most original and provocative programs on television"—New York Times. "The toughest, smartest show on television"—Rolling Stone. "A wildly intense gem . . . riveting . . . not to be missed"—TV Guide. If you're not watching it, you should be. See what the buzz is all about. Be sure to stop by the SCI FI booth for a chance to win the ultimate BSG prize packet! Panelists include stars Edward James Olmos (Admiral William Adama), Mary McDonnell (Laura Roslin), James Callis (President Gaius Baltar), and Lucy Lawless (D'Anna Biers), Aaron Douglas (Chief Tyrol), plus executive producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore and SCI FI VP for original programming Erik Storey. Moderated by Lisa Chambers, features director, TV Guide. Room 20
2:30-3:30 Paramount Pictures— Paramount Pictures is proud to present an early look at footage from the upcoming fantasy adventure film Stardust from director Matthew Vaughn (Layer Cake) and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura (Constantine, Four Brothers and the upcoming Transformers). After captivating audiences in both novel and graphic novel formats, Neil Gaiman's Stardust makes its big-screen adaptation debut next March starring Claire Danes, Robert DeNiro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sienna Miller, Ricky Gervais, Peter O'Toole, Rupert Everett, and Charlie Cox. Neil Gaiman (The Eternals and co-writer with Roger Avery of the screenplay for the upcoming Beowulf), illustrator Charles Vess, co-screenwriter (with director Vaughn) Jane Goldman, and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura will discuss the film, which is currently in production. (Credits not contractual.) Hall H
3:00-4:00 Fox: Bones— David Boreanaz is one of television's biggest stars. Boreanaz and Bones creator/executive producer Hart Hanson will dish up all the fun behind-the-scenes stories on the show and answer your questions! Lisa Chambers, TV Guide, will moderate the panel Room 20
3:30-4:00 Universal: Children of Men— Academy Award–nominated writer/director Alfonso Cuarón (Y tu mamá también, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) will present scenes from his upcoming futuristic thriller Children of Men, starring Clive Owen, Julianne Moore and Michael Caine. The new trailer from Children of Men and never-before-seen clips from the film will be shown, along with a discussion of the filmmakers's work. Hall H
6:00-7:00 The Jim Henson Company: Power of the Dark Crystal and Sneak Peeks— Lisa Henson (Power of the Dark Crystal), and Michael Polis (MirrorMask) from The Jim Henson Company will discuss current and upcoming productions. Panelists include Brian Froud (Labyrinth), Genndy Tartakofsky (Star Wars: The Clone Wars), and Scott Stewart (Superman Returns) will be on hand to talk about the much-anticipated sequel feature Power of the Dark Crystal. Other topics include the new puppet television shows for grown-ups as well as new DVD releases, manga books, and exciting new products from Jim Henson Designs. Room 6CDEF
8:30-11:30 SCI FI Friday— Don’t get SCI FI in your hotel room?! Come to a commercial-free screening of Eureka, Stargate SG-1, and Stargate Atlantis at Comic Con! Colin Ferguson, star of Eureka, will open up the evening’s festivities. Catch up on the Tuesday, July 18 premiere of Eureka and watch all-new episodes of Stargate and Atlantis. The first 1000 attendees will receive a limited-edition Stargate SG-1 10th Anniversary premium. Room 6A
Saturday
10:30-11:30 Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles— Harmony Gold presents director Tommy Yune (Danger Girl Kamikaze, Speed Racer), screenwriter Ford Riley (Megas XLR), script editor Tom Bateman, and voice actor Yuri Lowenthal (Prince of Persia, Naruto) in an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming Robotech—The Shadow Chronicles with Q&A about the future of Robotech featuring Harmony Gold staffers Steve Yun and Kevin McKeever. Room 6A
10:30-12:00 Lost: Season 3— You won't want to miss this panel with Jorge Garcia (Hugo "Hurley" Reyes) and Daniel Dae Kim (Jin-Soo Kwon) from the cast of ABC's hit show Lost as they are joined by co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producers Bryan Burk and Carlton Cuse to discuss the new season of Lost. They'll preview excerpts from the Lost Season 2 DVD box set, take questions from the audience, and perhaps even offer some surprises! Room 20
10:30-11:30 Warner Bros. Presents 300— Appearing in person: Creator Frank Miller, director Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead), and actors David Wenham (Faramir in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and The Return of the King) and Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera; Lara Croft: Cradle of Life). Based on the epic graphic novel by Miller, 300 is a ferocious retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, the Spartans' valor and sacrifice inspire all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy, drawing a line in the sand for democracy. The film brings Miller's (Sin City) acclaimed Dark Horse graphic novel to life by combining live action with virtual backgrounds that capture his distinct vision of this ancient historic tale. Hall H
12:30-1:30 ABC Family: Fallen: Q&A with the Actors and Author— Based on the hit books by Tom Sniegoski, Fallen is a classic battle of good vs. evil that chronicles the phenomenal journey of an 18-year-old who struggles to come to terms with his newly discovered identity as he is drawn into a world where angels—good and evil—walk among us. Appearances by actors Paul Wesley (Everwood) and Rick Worthy (Battlestar Galactica) and author Tom Sniegoski (Fallen, Outkast). Copies of the book on which this movie is based will be made available in limited quantities to those who attend this panel. Fallen, a two-hour movie event premieres Sunday, July 23 on ABC Family, with an additional four hours slated to air in 2007. The journey is just beginning. Room 5AB
1:00-2:30 Kevin Smith— The moment is here. Kevin Smith’s Clerks 2 is in theaters now, and the man, the myth, the legend behind it is here at Comic-Con to talk about the making of the film and whatever else he damn well pleases. Hall H
2:00-3:00 SCI FI: Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis— Diving into its tenth season, Stargate SG-1 has made history by becoming the longest-running sci-fi drama in U.S. television history. The show follows General Hank Landry (Beau Bridges) and his team as they travel through the Stargate—an ancient portal allowing instantaneous travel to distant galaxies—to explore the uncharted regions of the universe and save the Earth from destruction. Panelists for SG-1 include Christopher Judge (Teal’c) and additional cast members, plus executive producers/writers Joe Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, and Nora O’Brien, VP original programming, SCI FI.
On Stargate Atlantis, currently in its third season, evidence of a secret base left by the originators of the Stargate is found in the most unlikely of places-on Earth. The implications of this discovery lead the team to the distant Pegasus galaxy, where they find the legendary city of Atlantis, and a primitive human civilization threatened by a sinister new enemy. Stargate Atlantis panelists include Joe Flanigan (Lt. Colonel John Sheppard), Torri Higginson (Dr. Elizabeth Weir), Rachel Luttrell (Teyla Emmagan), David Hewlett (Dr. Rodney McKay), Paul McGillion (Dr. Carson Beckett), executive producers/writers Joe Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, and Tony Optican, VP development and current programming, SCI FI.Gary Jones (Chief Master Sergeant Walter Harriman, Stargate SG-1) moderates both panels. Room 20
2:30-4:00 Spotlight on Shag— If every picture tells a story, Josh Agle (better known as Shag, a contraction of the last two letters of his first name and the first two of his last) has hundreds of stories to tell. His work, punctuated by a playful, vividly colored style, has entered the pop culture pantheon by storm. Comic-Con special guest Shag talks about his work and answers your questions in this special event. Room 6A [Note – This is not television or Film related – I just like Shag and wanted to make note of this panel so I do not forget]
2:45-3:30 The Spirit Movie— Including a major announcement regarding the new movie featuring the beloved comics action hero! The Spirit will be coming to the big screen via a unique adaptation of Will Eisner's engrossing story of a masked detective believed to be dead and operating out of a mausoleum, fighting crime in the dark shadows of Central City with his fists, cunning, and ingenious forms of punishment. Eisner, who originally introduced The Spirit in 1939, is considered the comic book's master storyteller, with a name that graces the comic industry's most prestigious awards at Comic-Con. The film will lend a modern perspective to these classic tales and will show the struggle and triumph of this powerful hero, who melts the hearts of many a femme fatale and escapes the clutches of many a super-villain using—in a unique twist to the genre—intellect and humor, without the assistance of any super powers. Participating panelists include Branded Entertainment's Michael Uslan (Batman Begins, Constantine), Odd Lot Entertainment's Deborah Del Prete, and Denis Kitchen, Will Eisner's longtime agent. Hall H
3:30-4:30 A Marvel Studios Production: The Future of Marvel’s Film Franchises— The next great era of comic book films begins as Marvel Studios launches its new slate. The studio is currently developing many of its landmark titles for adaptation to the screen, including Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Captain America, Thor, Nick Fury, and Ant-Man. At this presentation, the directors of Iron Man (Jon Favreau), The Incredible Hulk, and Ant-Man (Edgar Wright) will share their visions for these highly anticipated films. Producers Avi Arad, Kevin Feige, and Ari Arad will join the panel and be on hand to answer questions from the audience. Moderated by Borys Kit of The Hollywood Reporter. Room 6CDEF
3:30-4:30 TV Guide Presents: 2006 and Beyond— Craig Tomashoff, TV Guide's West Coast bureau chief, hosts this look at the current successful supernatural/ fantasy/sci-fi television series and how they are paving the way for television series of the future. Panelists include Brannon Braga (Star Trek: Voyager), Rene Echevarria (Medium), Jorge Garcia (Lost), David Goyer (Blade), Jennifer Love Hewitt (Ghost Whisperer), Jeph Loeb (co-executive producer, Heroes), Bryan Fuller (consulting producer, Heroes), Frank Spotnitz (Night Stalker, Star Chamber), and Mark Stern (EVP, original programming, SCI FI Channel). Room 20
4:00-5:30 Cartoon Network Studio Originals— Creators of Cartoon Network’s original series Mark O’Hare (Camp Lazlo), Tim and Julie Cahill (My Gym Partner’s a Monkey), Everett Peck (Squirrel Boy), Mr. Warburton (Codename: Kids Next Door), and Danny Antonucci (Ed, Edd n Eddy) will be on hand to discuss their series, show clips, and answer questions. Room 6A
4:30-5:30 The 4400— Get a sneak peek at upcoming scenes from CBS Paramount Network Television's hit sci-fi series The 4400 for USA Network, followed by a panel discussion with series stars Joel Gretsch (Tom Baldwin), Jacqueline McKenzie (Diana Skouris), Patrick Flueger (Shawn Farrell), Megalyn Echikunwoke (Isabelle Tyler), Billy Campbell (Jordan Collier), and executive producer Ira Steven Behr (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) and producer Craig Sweeny (Medium). The third season of The 4400 sparks a new beginning for the 4400 people who, over a span of years, mysteriously disappeared—only to be returned to Earth all together in a ball of light. Though the returnees have not aged physically, many of them reappeared with dramatic abilities ranging from enhanced reflexes to precognition. NTAC (National Threat Assessment Command) is the government agency responsible for keeping track of the returnees and investigating all things related to the 4400. Craig Tomashoff, West Coast Bureau Chief at TV GUIDE, will moderate. Room 6CDEF
4:30-5:30 Veronica Mars— Series creator and executive producer Rob Thomas (Drive Me Crazy, Cupid) and cast members Kristen Bell (the upcoming movie Pulse, Showtime's Reefer Madness), Jason Dohring (Deep Impact), Francis Capra (CSI: Crime Scene Investigation), Ryan Hansen (Death by Engagement), Michael Muhney (upcoming Lovers, Liars & Lunatics), and Enrico Colantoni (Galaxy Quest) have brought to life some of the most memorable noir characters on network television today. Join Veronica and the rest of Neptune's residents for a Q&A session about the San Diego–filmed series moderated by tvguide.com's Daniel Manu. Room 20
5:00-6:30 Sony Presents— Sony Pictures proudly presents a pair of Marvels: The classic Marvel comic Ghost Rider comes to the big screen with Academy Award–winning Nicolas Cage playing Johnny Blaze. Appearing in person to answer your questions and show some previews will be the film's stars Nicolas Cage and Eva Mendes and director Mark Steven Johnson. Oh, and did we mention Spidey 3? Come find out why we don't have to say anything else . . . besides Sam Raimi! Hall H
5:30-7:00 [adult swim] 2 for 1— That's right. Here's your chance to see new stuff and ask dumb questions. Panel #1: Dave Willis and Matt Maiellaro (Aqua Teen Hunger Force), Jim Fortier (Squidbillies), Dino Stamatopoulus (Moral Orel), and Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha (Metalocalypse) will kick off the first half of this year's panel. Panel #2 follows with Seth Green and Matt Senreich (Robot Chicken), Jackson Publick (Venture Brothers), Adam de La Pena, Todd James, and Peter Girardi (Minoriteam), and Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim (Tom Goes to the Mayor). The gang's all here. You should be too. Room 6CDEF
8:00-10:00 CCI:IFF Extra: Done the Impossible: The Fans' Tale of Firefly and Serenity— Adam Baldwin hosts the telling of this vivid Browncoat story that features interviews with Joss Whedon, creator of Firefly and Serenity, the cast, crew, and most important, the fans themselves. Join filmmakers Brian Wiser and Jeremy Neish for a Q&A after the film! Room 6B
Sunday[Note – This is my “Do stuff other than watch a big screen” day, so I cut back on the options]
11:30-1:00 Jericho: World Premiere and Panel Discussion— Executive producers Jon Turteltaub (National Treasure), Stephen Chbosky (Rent), and Carol Barbee (Judging Amy) bring to the small screen a drama about what happens when a nuclear mushroom cloud suddenly appears on the horizon, plunging the residents of the small, peaceful Kansas town of Jericho into chaos. Be the first to see the world premiere screening of CBS's new series Jericho, followed by a panel discussion with Turteltaub, Chbosky, Barbee, and stars Skeet Ulrich (Scream), Lennie James (Sahara), Sprague Grayden (Six Feet Under), Erik Knudsen (Saw II), and Ashley Scott (Dark Angel). Room 6CDEF
3:00-4:00 New Line: Lord of the Rings— Find out the latest on upcoming DVDs and merchandise for The Lord of the Rings. Representatives from New Line Home Entertainment, Electronic Arts, and Sideshow Collectibles will be present with insight, sneak peeks, and Q&A. Room 5AB
Friday
11:00-12:30 Warner Bros. Pictures Presents— In person, stars Hilary Swank and Anna Sophia Robb, director Stephen Hopkins, and producer Joel Silver of The Reaping, a supernatural thriller in which Hilary plays a world-renowned expert in disproving religious phenomena. But when she investigates a small Louisiana town that is suffering from what appear to be the Biblical plagues, she realizes that science cannot explain what is happening. Plus: Bryan Singer Returns! Please welcome long-time friend of Comic-Con, director Bryan Singer, to answer your questions about Superman Returns and give you an idea of what's next. Plus: more news and special promo items will be given to all who attend. Hall H
12:30-2:00 NBC: Heroes Pilot Screening and Q&A with Cast and Producers— Debuting on NBC this fall, the highly anticipated series Heroes chronicles the lives of ordinary people who discover they possess extraordinary abilities. Be the first to watch an exclusive 72-minute cut of the pilot episode, created specifically for Comic-Con. Join cast members Ali Larter (Final Destination), Greg Grunberg (Alias), Milo Ventimiglia (Gilmore Girls), Hayden Panettiere (Ice Princess), Sendhil Ramamurthy (Blind Guy Driving), and Masi Oka (Scrubs); creator/executive producer Tim Kring; executive producer Dennis Hammer; co-executive producer/comic book writer Jeph Loeb (Lost, Superman for All Seasons); and legendary comic book artist Tim Sale (Batman: The Long Halloween) for a Q&A session. Room 6CDEF
12:45-2:15 Twentieth Century Fox Presents— Twentieth Century Fox returns to Comic-Con in a big way, with a sneak peek of 4 of the studio's most anticipated 2006 and 2007 releases. Get your first look at the highly-anticipated Eragon with premiere footage and special appearances by actor Ed Speleers (Eragon) and Elizabeth Gabler, president of Fox 2000 Pictures. Next it’s Reno 911: Miami, the big screen version of the popular TV series, with special footage and appearances by Lt. Dangle, Deputy Travis Jr. and Deputy Trudy Wiegel. And then it’s Pathfinder with star Clancy Brown and director Marcus Nispel revealing footage of this fantastic epic. And last, but not least, it’s the one and only Borat and his new film, Borat, featuring special footage and a special appearance by ... you guessed it! BORAT! Hall H
2:00-2:30 Cartoon Network: Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends— Join Craig McCracken (creator) and Lauren Faust (supervising producer/writer) from the Emmy-Award winning series Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends for a Q&A. Also, come and see the voice of your favorite characters live and in person. Room 5AB
2:00-3:00 SCI FI: Battlestar Galactica— "The #1 television show of 2005"—Time magazine. "One of the most original and provocative programs on television"—New York Times. "The toughest, smartest show on television"—Rolling Stone. "A wildly intense gem . . . riveting . . . not to be missed"—TV Guide. If you're not watching it, you should be. See what the buzz is all about. Be sure to stop by the SCI FI booth for a chance to win the ultimate BSG prize packet! Panelists include stars Edward James Olmos (Admiral William Adama), Mary McDonnell (Laura Roslin), James Callis (President Gaius Baltar), and Lucy Lawless (D'Anna Biers), Aaron Douglas (Chief Tyrol), plus executive producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore and SCI FI VP for original programming Erik Storey. Moderated by Lisa Chambers, features director, TV Guide. Room 20
2:30-3:30 Paramount Pictures— Paramount Pictures is proud to present an early look at footage from the upcoming fantasy adventure film Stardust from director Matthew Vaughn (Layer Cake) and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura (Constantine, Four Brothers and the upcoming Transformers). After captivating audiences in both novel and graphic novel formats, Neil Gaiman's Stardust makes its big-screen adaptation debut next March starring Claire Danes, Robert DeNiro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sienna Miller, Ricky Gervais, Peter O'Toole, Rupert Everett, and Charlie Cox. Neil Gaiman (The Eternals and co-writer with Roger Avery of the screenplay for the upcoming Beowulf), illustrator Charles Vess, co-screenwriter (with director Vaughn) Jane Goldman, and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura will discuss the film, which is currently in production. (Credits not contractual.) Hall H
3:00-4:00 Fox: Bones— David Boreanaz is one of television's biggest stars. Boreanaz and Bones creator/executive producer Hart Hanson will dish up all the fun behind-the-scenes stories on the show and answer your questions! Lisa Chambers, TV Guide, will moderate the panel Room 20
3:30-4:00 Universal: Children of Men— Academy Award–nominated writer/director Alfonso Cuarón (Y tu mamá también, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) will present scenes from his upcoming futuristic thriller Children of Men, starring Clive Owen, Julianne Moore and Michael Caine. The new trailer from Children of Men and never-before-seen clips from the film will be shown, along with a discussion of the filmmakers's work. Hall H
6:00-7:00 The Jim Henson Company: Power of the Dark Crystal and Sneak Peeks— Lisa Henson (Power of the Dark Crystal), and Michael Polis (MirrorMask) from The Jim Henson Company will discuss current and upcoming productions. Panelists include Brian Froud (Labyrinth), Genndy Tartakofsky (Star Wars: The Clone Wars), and Scott Stewart (Superman Returns) will be on hand to talk about the much-anticipated sequel feature Power of the Dark Crystal. Other topics include the new puppet television shows for grown-ups as well as new DVD releases, manga books, and exciting new products from Jim Henson Designs. Room 6CDEF
8:30-11:30 SCI FI Friday— Don’t get SCI FI in your hotel room?! Come to a commercial-free screening of Eureka, Stargate SG-1, and Stargate Atlantis at Comic Con! Colin Ferguson, star of Eureka, will open up the evening’s festivities. Catch up on the Tuesday, July 18 premiere of Eureka and watch all-new episodes of Stargate and Atlantis. The first 1000 attendees will receive a limited-edition Stargate SG-1 10th Anniversary premium. Room 6A
Saturday
10:30-11:30 Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles— Harmony Gold presents director Tommy Yune (Danger Girl Kamikaze, Speed Racer), screenwriter Ford Riley (Megas XLR), script editor Tom Bateman, and voice actor Yuri Lowenthal (Prince of Persia, Naruto) in an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming Robotech—The Shadow Chronicles with Q&A about the future of Robotech featuring Harmony Gold staffers Steve Yun and Kevin McKeever. Room 6A
10:30-12:00 Lost: Season 3— You won't want to miss this panel with Jorge Garcia (Hugo "Hurley" Reyes) and Daniel Dae Kim (Jin-Soo Kwon) from the cast of ABC's hit show Lost as they are joined by co-creator/executive producer Damon Lindelof and executive producers Bryan Burk and Carlton Cuse to discuss the new season of Lost. They'll preview excerpts from the Lost Season 2 DVD box set, take questions from the audience, and perhaps even offer some surprises! Room 20
10:30-11:30 Warner Bros. Presents 300— Appearing in person: Creator Frank Miller, director Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead), and actors David Wenham (Faramir in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and The Return of the King) and Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera; Lara Croft: Cradle of Life). Based on the epic graphic novel by Miller, 300 is a ferocious retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, the Spartans' valor and sacrifice inspire all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy, drawing a line in the sand for democracy. The film brings Miller's (Sin City) acclaimed Dark Horse graphic novel to life by combining live action with virtual backgrounds that capture his distinct vision of this ancient historic tale. Hall H
12:30-1:30 ABC Family: Fallen: Q&A with the Actors and Author— Based on the hit books by Tom Sniegoski, Fallen is a classic battle of good vs. evil that chronicles the phenomenal journey of an 18-year-old who struggles to come to terms with his newly discovered identity as he is drawn into a world where angels—good and evil—walk among us. Appearances by actors Paul Wesley (Everwood) and Rick Worthy (Battlestar Galactica) and author Tom Sniegoski (Fallen, Outkast). Copies of the book on which this movie is based will be made available in limited quantities to those who attend this panel. Fallen, a two-hour movie event premieres Sunday, July 23 on ABC Family, with an additional four hours slated to air in 2007. The journey is just beginning. Room 5AB
1:00-2:30 Kevin Smith— The moment is here. Kevin Smith’s Clerks 2 is in theaters now, and the man, the myth, the legend behind it is here at Comic-Con to talk about the making of the film and whatever else he damn well pleases. Hall H
2:00-3:00 SCI FI: Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis— Diving into its tenth season, Stargate SG-1 has made history by becoming the longest-running sci-fi drama in U.S. television history. The show follows General Hank Landry (Beau Bridges) and his team as they travel through the Stargate—an ancient portal allowing instantaneous travel to distant galaxies—to explore the uncharted regions of the universe and save the Earth from destruction. Panelists for SG-1 include Christopher Judge (Teal’c) and additional cast members, plus executive producers/writers Joe Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, and Nora O’Brien, VP original programming, SCI FI.
On Stargate Atlantis, currently in its third season, evidence of a secret base left by the originators of the Stargate is found in the most unlikely of places-on Earth. The implications of this discovery lead the team to the distant Pegasus galaxy, where they find the legendary city of Atlantis, and a primitive human civilization threatened by a sinister new enemy. Stargate Atlantis panelists include Joe Flanigan (Lt. Colonel John Sheppard), Torri Higginson (Dr. Elizabeth Weir), Rachel Luttrell (Teyla Emmagan), David Hewlett (Dr. Rodney McKay), Paul McGillion (Dr. Carson Beckett), executive producers/writers Joe Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, and Tony Optican, VP development and current programming, SCI FI.Gary Jones (Chief Master Sergeant Walter Harriman, Stargate SG-1) moderates both panels. Room 20
2:30-4:00 Spotlight on Shag— If every picture tells a story, Josh Agle (better known as Shag, a contraction of the last two letters of his first name and the first two of his last) has hundreds of stories to tell. His work, punctuated by a playful, vividly colored style, has entered the pop culture pantheon by storm. Comic-Con special guest Shag talks about his work and answers your questions in this special event. Room 6A [Note – This is not television or Film related – I just like Shag and wanted to make note of this panel so I do not forget]
2:45-3:30 The Spirit Movie— Including a major announcement regarding the new movie featuring the beloved comics action hero! The Spirit will be coming to the big screen via a unique adaptation of Will Eisner's engrossing story of a masked detective believed to be dead and operating out of a mausoleum, fighting crime in the dark shadows of Central City with his fists, cunning, and ingenious forms of punishment. Eisner, who originally introduced The Spirit in 1939, is considered the comic book's master storyteller, with a name that graces the comic industry's most prestigious awards at Comic-Con. The film will lend a modern perspective to these classic tales and will show the struggle and triumph of this powerful hero, who melts the hearts of many a femme fatale and escapes the clutches of many a super-villain using—in a unique twist to the genre—intellect and humor, without the assistance of any super powers. Participating panelists include Branded Entertainment's Michael Uslan (Batman Begins, Constantine), Odd Lot Entertainment's Deborah Del Prete, and Denis Kitchen, Will Eisner's longtime agent. Hall H
3:30-4:30 A Marvel Studios Production: The Future of Marvel’s Film Franchises— The next great era of comic book films begins as Marvel Studios launches its new slate. The studio is currently developing many of its landmark titles for adaptation to the screen, including Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Captain America, Thor, Nick Fury, and Ant-Man. At this presentation, the directors of Iron Man (Jon Favreau), The Incredible Hulk, and Ant-Man (Edgar Wright) will share their visions for these highly anticipated films. Producers Avi Arad, Kevin Feige, and Ari Arad will join the panel and be on hand to answer questions from the audience. Moderated by Borys Kit of The Hollywood Reporter. Room 6CDEF
3:30-4:30 TV Guide Presents: 2006 and Beyond— Craig Tomashoff, TV Guide's West Coast bureau chief, hosts this look at the current successful supernatural/ fantasy/sci-fi television series and how they are paving the way for television series of the future. Panelists include Brannon Braga (Star Trek: Voyager), Rene Echevarria (Medium), Jorge Garcia (Lost), David Goyer (Blade), Jennifer Love Hewitt (Ghost Whisperer), Jeph Loeb (co-executive producer, Heroes), Bryan Fuller (consulting producer, Heroes), Frank Spotnitz (Night Stalker, Star Chamber), and Mark Stern (EVP, original programming, SCI FI Channel). Room 20
4:00-5:30 Cartoon Network Studio Originals— Creators of Cartoon Network’s original series Mark O’Hare (Camp Lazlo), Tim and Julie Cahill (My Gym Partner’s a Monkey), Everett Peck (Squirrel Boy), Mr. Warburton (Codename: Kids Next Door), and Danny Antonucci (Ed, Edd n Eddy) will be on hand to discuss their series, show clips, and answer questions. Room 6A
4:30-5:30 The 4400— Get a sneak peek at upcoming scenes from CBS Paramount Network Television's hit sci-fi series The 4400 for USA Network, followed by a panel discussion with series stars Joel Gretsch (Tom Baldwin), Jacqueline McKenzie (Diana Skouris), Patrick Flueger (Shawn Farrell), Megalyn Echikunwoke (Isabelle Tyler), Billy Campbell (Jordan Collier), and executive producer Ira Steven Behr (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) and producer Craig Sweeny (Medium). The third season of The 4400 sparks a new beginning for the 4400 people who, over a span of years, mysteriously disappeared—only to be returned to Earth all together in a ball of light. Though the returnees have not aged physically, many of them reappeared with dramatic abilities ranging from enhanced reflexes to precognition. NTAC (National Threat Assessment Command) is the government agency responsible for keeping track of the returnees and investigating all things related to the 4400. Craig Tomashoff, West Coast Bureau Chief at TV GUIDE, will moderate. Room 6CDEF
4:30-5:30 Veronica Mars— Series creator and executive producer Rob Thomas (Drive Me Crazy, Cupid) and cast members Kristen Bell (the upcoming movie Pulse, Showtime's Reefer Madness), Jason Dohring (Deep Impact), Francis Capra (CSI: Crime Scene Investigation), Ryan Hansen (Death by Engagement), Michael Muhney (upcoming Lovers, Liars & Lunatics), and Enrico Colantoni (Galaxy Quest) have brought to life some of the most memorable noir characters on network television today. Join Veronica and the rest of Neptune's residents for a Q&A session about the San Diego–filmed series moderated by tvguide.com's Daniel Manu. Room 20
5:00-6:30 Sony Presents— Sony Pictures proudly presents a pair of Marvels: The classic Marvel comic Ghost Rider comes to the big screen with Academy Award–winning Nicolas Cage playing Johnny Blaze. Appearing in person to answer your questions and show some previews will be the film's stars Nicolas Cage and Eva Mendes and director Mark Steven Johnson. Oh, and did we mention Spidey 3? Come find out why we don't have to say anything else . . . besides Sam Raimi! Hall H
5:30-7:00 [adult swim] 2 for 1— That's right. Here's your chance to see new stuff and ask dumb questions. Panel #1: Dave Willis and Matt Maiellaro (Aqua Teen Hunger Force), Jim Fortier (Squidbillies), Dino Stamatopoulus (Moral Orel), and Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha (Metalocalypse) will kick off the first half of this year's panel. Panel #2 follows with Seth Green and Matt Senreich (Robot Chicken), Jackson Publick (Venture Brothers), Adam de La Pena, Todd James, and Peter Girardi (Minoriteam), and Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim (Tom Goes to the Mayor). The gang's all here. You should be too. Room 6CDEF
8:00-10:00 CCI:IFF Extra: Done the Impossible: The Fans' Tale of Firefly and Serenity— Adam Baldwin hosts the telling of this vivid Browncoat story that features interviews with Joss Whedon, creator of Firefly and Serenity, the cast, crew, and most important, the fans themselves. Join filmmakers Brian Wiser and Jeremy Neish for a Q&A after the film! Room 6B
Sunday[Note – This is my “Do stuff other than watch a big screen” day, so I cut back on the options]
11:30-1:00 Jericho: World Premiere and Panel Discussion— Executive producers Jon Turteltaub (National Treasure), Stephen Chbosky (Rent), and Carol Barbee (Judging Amy) bring to the small screen a drama about what happens when a nuclear mushroom cloud suddenly appears on the horizon, plunging the residents of the small, peaceful Kansas town of Jericho into chaos. Be the first to see the world premiere screening of CBS's new series Jericho, followed by a panel discussion with Turteltaub, Chbosky, Barbee, and stars Skeet Ulrich (Scream), Lennie James (Sahara), Sprague Grayden (Six Feet Under), Erik Knudsen (Saw II), and Ashley Scott (Dark Angel). Room 6CDEF
3:00-4:00 New Line: Lord of the Rings— Find out the latest on upcoming DVDs and merchandise for The Lord of the Rings. Representatives from New Line Home Entertainment, Electronic Arts, and Sideshow Collectibles will be present with insight, sneak peeks, and Q&A. Room 5AB
