Theme: if you don't have one, you don't have a story! Theme is probably the most misunderstood aspect of storytelling. Everyone “thinks” they know what it is, but almost no one understands how to thread it into a story. Maxwell Alexander Drake breaks down this strange and complex topic into easy-to-understand elements you can use in your own stories immediately. Drake is an award-winning science fiction/fantasy author, graphic novelist, and playwright. He is best known for his fantasy series The Genesis of Oblivion Saga. Drake teaches creative writing at writers' conferences and fan conventions around the country.
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 2
Maggie Thompson (30-year co-editor of Comics Buyer's Guide) is joined by Mark Evanier (writer, editor, entertainment expert, and News from ME blogger) and Leonard Maltin (film critic, author, and host of the Maltin on Movies podcast) consider the challenges, anecdotes, and delights of interactions with a variety of celebrities.
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 32AB
is the year for breaking all the rules. Gone are the days of simple good-versus-evil narratives; these are complicated times that call for complicated characters. Pop culture has clearly shifted its attention to the messy, the morally ambiguous, and the weird. In short, fans want magic, and they want mayhem. Magic X Mayhem features an eclectic mix of daring new speculative fiction authors and new voices from Tor Books and Tor.com Publishing: Annalee Newitz (The Future of Another Timeline,Autonomous), Charlie Jane Anders (The City in the Middle of the Night), Sarah Gailey (Magic for Liars), Seanan McGuire (Middlegame), S. L. Huang (Null Set), and Tochi Onyebuchi (War Girls, Riot Baby).
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 28DE
UPDATED: Tue, Jul 16, 04:12PM Coming together for the very first time in public: Barry Ira Geller, producer of Roger Zelazny's Lord of Light, and Mark Newbauer, producer of George R. R. Martin's novella The Skin Game. Zelazny's Lord of Light won the 1968 Hugo and became the foundation of stories of people becoming real gods and their dramatic consequences. Martin has long stated that Game of Thrones was inspired by Lord of Light, readying now for TV production. Newbauer and Geller discuss how they are merging their energies to create plans for both TV/film production of Lord of Light and The Skin Game. Both literary properties have spawned their own competition in the marketplace over the years, yet both are the acknowledged pinnacles in their genres of fantasy and horror. Joining them for the discussion will be Mike Royer, famed Marvel and Disney inker. Jack Kirby's favorite inker and inker of the Lord of Light series of drawings which the CIA used to get people out of Iran in 1979.
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC
The hosts of the hit podcast Best Movies Never Made, Stephen Scarlata (producer, Jodorowsky's Dune) and Josh Miller (screenwriter, Sonic the Hedgehog), record a live podcast and talk about some of the greatest films never made, including Tim Burton's Beetlejuice Goes Hawaiian. Joining them will be Ashley E. Miller (writer, Thor, X-Men: First Class), Mallory O’Meara (author, Lady From The Black Lagoon), Steven Melching (writer, Star Wars Rebels, The Clone Wars), Judson Scott (producer, Atomic Monster), and several surprise filmmakers who will talk about the movies and TV series that got away. Aloha!
Thursday July 18, 2019 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 24ABC
It takes a team of talented individuals to bring a comic book to life. Dark Horse sits down with a panel of writers, artists, colorists, and letterers whose creativity and hard work produce the best comics on the shelves. Dark Horse would like to peel back the layers on the work of comics' unsung heroes and celebrate their contributions to our beloved art form. Panelists: Phillip Sevy, Carlos Giffoni, Gabriel Bá, and Fábio Moon.
Thursday July 18, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Step into the writers' room of the critically acclaimed Star Trek: Year Five comic series. Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, Jody Houser, Brandon Easton, and Jim McCann discuss their collaboration on the first issues of the series and the wild places the Enterprise will go on its way back home.
Thursday July 18, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Wings of Fire is soaring to Comic-Con! Tui T. Sutherland (Wings of Fire) sits down with Shannon Messenger (Keeper of the Lost Cities series) to discuss everyone's favorite dragons and provide a sneak peek at what comes next in the series.
Thursday July 18, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 4
Luis Gantus (writer, The Incredible and Sad Story of the Naïve Historieta and the Heartless Industry) is joined by Daniel Garcia (editorial coordination, El Violin Negro) for a conversation about the fascinating story on Mexican comic books and how an industry was created and almost destroyed in the span of 50 years. Moderated by Sebastian Fink.
National bestselling author-editor Bryan Thomas Schmidt (The Martian, The X-Files, Predator) leads a practical how-to workshop to get you started and geared up to create with a solid structure for your story. All participants get a free e-book of Bryan's bestselling How to Write a Novel: The Fundamentals of Fiction.
Thursday July 18, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 2
Leigh Bardugo (King of Scars,Ninth House) is a New York Times bestselling author of fantasy novels and the creator of the Grishaverse. With over 3 million copies sold worldwide, her Grishaverse spans the Shadow and Bone Trilogy, the Six of Crows Duology, The Language of Thorns, and King of Scars—and will soon come to Netflix in an original series. Her first novel for adults, Ninth House, will be released on October 1. Erin Morgenstern is the New York Times bestselling author of The Night Circus, which has sold millions of copies around the world and been translated into 37 languages. Her new novel, The Starless Sea, will be released on November 5. Leigh and Erin discuss writing fantasy for all ages, astrology, supporting woman-owned businesses, giant cups of tea, and so much more. Moderated by Petra Mayer (NPR).
Thursday July 18, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Experience the chills and thrills of these authors' works as they craft breathless prose that will have readers turning the pages at lightning speed. Get chilly with Katrina Leno (You Must Not Miss), James Murray (The Brink), Brendan Reichs (The Darkdeep), Ally Condie (The Darkdeep), Kali Wallace (Salvation Day), and Clay McLeod Chapman (The Remaking) in conversation with Maryelizabeth Yturralde (Mysterious Galaxy).
Yvette Nicole Brown (host/actress, Community), Deric Hughes (co-EP, Arrow), Lamont Magee (writer, Black Lightning), Nyambi Nyambi (actor/artist, The Good Fight), Malcolm Barrett (actor, Timeless), a surprise panelist or two, and your moderator Dan Evans III (VP creative affairs, DC Entertainment) will take an idea from conception through production for various media. This process will include creating a pitch document, obtaining representation, and getting a pitch meeting. The panelists will explain, through hypothetical examples and humorous stories, the process that new creators should adapt to make their way through the creative battleground of the entertainment industry. Knowing that each project is unique, there will be a Q&A to allow the audience to really hone in on the solutions to obstacles they may encounter. Also on hand will be an entertainment lawyer to give creators insight on protecting their ideas as they navigate Hollywood!
Thursday July 18, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 7AB
While creators are technically the gods of their universes, for all intents and purposes, sometimes their creations include deities and religious systems. Authors discuss whether or not they choose to include gods in their world-building, whether or not they were inspired by real life in creating their worlds' gods, religions, or magic systems, and their methods in developing those aspects of the stories. With Comic-Con special guest Ann Leckie (The Raven Tower), Joan He (Descendant of the Crane), Scott Westerfeld (Impostors: Shatter City), and Margaret Rogerson (Sorcery of Thorns) in conversation with Rebecca Roanhorse (Sixth World).
Thursday July 18, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
People around the world love American comics. A dedicated cadre of individuals across the globe work in tandem to create translated editions for international audiences. Learn about this obscure additional revenue stream and vehicle for cultural exchange with Kari Torson (Dark Horse), Lance Kreiter (BOOM! Studios), Michele Foschini (BAO Publishing, Italy), Sullivan Rouaud (HiComics, France), and creators Gabriel Bá (Umbrella Academy), Matt Kindt (MIND MGMT), and David Petersen (Mouse Guard). Moderated by Amber Garza (Sequential Rights: Image/Skybound+).
Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn. Comic book women have been kicking ass across panels and pages for decades. But what is the secret sauce that makes some of these characters take off and others fall flat? Ming Chen (cast member, AMC's Comic Book Men, I Sell Comics! podcast), Amy Chu (writer, Poison Ivy, Red Sonja), Alitha Martinez (artist, Batgirl, Black Panther: World of Wakanda), and Terry Moore (creator, Strangers in Paradise, Motor Girl) analyze the key ingredients of successful character building and discuss the challenges of writing and drawing for today's audiences.
Thursday July 18, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Writers create dialogue, and now they are in control of the dialogue in this new landscape of agentless writers and community staffing boosts. But where does this leave newbies/pre-WGA/emerging writers? Leaders in the Solidarity Challenge and boosting movements will give advice on opportunities, hashtagging, mixers, and how to utilize the many platforms and resources available to writers at all levels. Featuring Joel Silberman (Writers Assistant Network, TBA Amazon show), Kristi Shuton (manager, creative talent development, Walt Disney Television), Jay Francis (VP Current Series, Diversity and Inclusion-Disney TV Animation), Teresa Huang (SEAL Team, Superstition) Nelson Soler (co EP, Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists), and more to be announced. Moderated by Ken Choy (GizmoPorn).
Joel Ojeda Lopez (The Death of Superman part one), Adalisa Zarate (Building Blocks), Adriana Rodriguez Leon (Studio XIII), Fers Sanchez (SoulKeepers), and Oscar Seal (coordinator, Draw Break) talk about the challenges and rewards of working with American editors and artists and how comics and animation create bonds between both countries. Moderated by Sebastian Fink.
Rainbow Rowell (Eleanor & Park,Fangirl,Carry On) is a New York Times bestselling author with the highly anticipated Wayward Son coming this fall. Faith Erin Hicks (The Nameless City, Friends with Boys) is an Eisner Award–winning graphic novelist. They are fans of each others' work and now collaborators! Pumpkinheads comes out from Rainbow and Faith this August. It's a tender and hilarious romantic comedy set in a pumpkin patch, and it's Rainbow's first original graphic novel. Hear these two in conversation prior to the release.
Thursday July 18, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
UPDATED: Thu, Jul 11, 07:17PM W. Maxwell Prince (Ice Cream Man), Pornsak Pichetshote (Infidel), Dan Watters (Coffin Bound), Jeff Lemire (Gideon Falls), Kieron Gillen (Die), and Chuck Brown (Bitter Root) discuss their spine-tingling craft and share the secrets to creating some of the darkest, most thrilling comic book series on the market. Moderated by Chloe Ramos-Peterson (Library Market Sales Representative at Image Comics).
Thursday July 18, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
What are the responsibilities and opportunities writers embrace when writing about iconic characters in universes created by someone else, whether an individual or a corporation? Talk comics, cartoons, games, and television universes with F. C. Yee (Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Rise of Kyoshi), Matt Forbeck (Dungeons & Dragons: Escape the Underdark: An Endless Quest Book), Brenna Yovanoff (Stranger Things: Runaway Max), Adam Christopher (Stranger Things: Darkness on the Edge of Town), Kiersten White (Slayer), and Gary Phillips (Batman: The Killing Joke), and Fictitious podcast host, Adron Buske.
By “pros” we mean professionals! Come hear this talented panel discuss how Comic-Con has changed for them throughout the years. David Brin (author, The Postman, Earth), Mike Friedrich (writer, Justice League of America,Iron Man), Lee Marrs (The Further Fattening Adventures of Pudge, Girl Blimp), Larry Niven (author, Ringworld series, Fleet of World series), Bob Schreck (editor, Batman, Sin City), Diana Schutz (editor, 300, Grendel, Usagi Yojimbo), Dan Vado (publisher, SLG Publishing; writer, JLA), and Phil Yeh (cartoonist, Even Cazco Gets the Blues, Winged Tiger Comics and Stories) discuss their Comic-Con experiences with moderator Bob Wayne (former senior VP, sales at DC Comics; writer, Time Masters, Wild Cards).
Don't miss your chance to hear Tom King speak about Batman, Mister Miracle, his journey from DC intern to New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award–winning author, and how his former life as a CIA operative inspires his outright intense and creative stories.
Thursday July 18, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 6DE
Charles Vess worked with award-winning writer Ursula K. Le Guin over the last four years of her life to bring her world of Earthsea to visual life. Over the course of thousands of emails, which in turn produced hundreds of preparatory drawings, he attempted to slide inside her brain. This presentation pulls aside the curtain to give a behind-the-scenes tour of how it was done.
Thursday July 18, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Led by authors Peter Clines (Paradox Bound, Dead Moon), Delilah Dawson (Galaxy's Edge: Black Spire, No Country for Old Gnomes), Jonathan Maberry (V-Wars, Joe Ledger), and Scott Sigler (Earthcore, Generations Trilogy), this session focuses on the business of prose publishing. The Writers Coffeehouse is a bunch of writers sitting around talking about writing. No agendas, no requirements—just chat about markets, pitching and selling, conquering frustration and defeating writers block, and all of the good things that come from the community of writers. It's open to everyone—from absolute beginners to award winners and bestsellers. Just show up, hang out, and talk. Or don't talk—lurk in the back and take notes.
Comic-Con special guest Sam Sykes (Seven Blades in Black) will DM a bunch of authors playing an hour-long D&D session where everyone is a Bard and combat isn't allowed. The bold adventurers include Chuck Wendig (Wanderers), Paul Krueger (Steel Crow Saga), Pierce Brown (Dark Age), E. K. Johnston (Star Wars: Queen's Shadow), and Jim Zub (Monsters & Creatures; Warriors & Weapons).
Writer/editor, Eisner Hall of Fame inductee, and Comic-Con special guest Marv Wolfman talks about his 50-year career in comics, animation, novels, and video game writing with moderator and writer Tom King. They'll discuss his work, the companies he's worked for, and the many characters he's worked on. Marv will also answer all questions (well, maybe not all!).
Thursday July 18, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 11
Three decades ago, Neal Adams set the standards for a new world of comic book characters and stories. For another creator, this might seem to be enough for any career, but Neal is back setting new standards, new directions, and new technology for the future of comics. To quote Neal, ”Back then, we were living in the Stone Age, and it was enough to do to bring comics into the 20th century. Now is the time to bring comics into the future. What is the future? I'm about to tell you.” A big order even for Neal Adams, but he will give you chapter and verse of where comics are going, and it's definitely an incredible place to go.
Thursday July 18, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 08, 10:34PM Do you have a story to tell? Would you like to see more characters and stories that relate to you? Maybe it's time to write your own! Led by Barbra Dillon (editor-in-chief, Fanbase Press), panelists Lisa K. Weber (artist, Hex11), Kelly Sue Milano (writer, Hex11), and Lynly Forrest (editor/producer, Hex11), along with indie creators MOM (artist, Viewbox), Travis Rivas (writer, Super-Abled Comics), and David F. Walker (writer, Bitter Root) will talk about creating comics outside the mainstream and offer tips on exactly how to do it.
Thursday July 18, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
William Shatner War Chronicles and Stan Lee's God Woke writer/artist/publisher Mariano Nicieza (Phazer, Blackray, Blue Sultan, Agent Three Zero) will feature exciting new creator-owned projects with SDCC exclusive premiere announcements. Apex reveals sneak-peek art and information about upcoming releases Atomic Age and Split City. Also, a look at the sci-fi comedy feature film project Kelly & Lisa Save the World from Aliens. Special project previews with Frank Lovece (Atomic Age), Wilson Ramos Jr. (Phazer), Mark Torres (Designated Survivor), Aaron Turner (Grapple), Billy Oertel (Grapple), Maxwell Chandler (Grapple), Tom Vargas (Factory Entertainment), Linda Castillion (Card.com).
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
Female superheroes are finally getting their due on screen and reigning at the box office. Star Wars now centers on a female Jedi, Black Panther brought a dynamic array of female characters to the MCU, and there is the first female Doctor since the character's 1963 debut. Women-owned companies like Jordandené and subscription boxes like FanMail provide female-fan-forward fashion and merchandising opportunities that didn't exist a decade ago. Online commentary from sites like SYFYFangrrls, fangirl-run podcasts, and events like GeekGirlCon continue to successfully challenge the notion that fandom is a male-dominated space. So why are women still having to prove themselves as consumers and community members, as well as pop culture enthusiasts and producers? Why has the “fake geek girl” myth persisted? Join Jennifer K. Stuller (Ink-Stained Amazon; co-founder GeekGirlCon), Suzanne Scott (UT Austin, Fake Geek Girls), Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex,Shadow of the Batgirl), Britta Lundin (Ship It,Riverdale), Rose Del Vecchio (FanMail), and Rebecca M. Davis (NW POC Geeks; Nerdlesque MC; GeekGirlCon), and C. B. Lee (Not Your Sidekick; Not Your Villain) as they punch holes in the sky for a dynamic, inquisitive, compassionate, community-building discussion exploring how far they've come culturally as female fans, struggles they still face as cultural critics and culture makers—and ways for us all to go higher, further, and much much faster.
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
This panel of pro writers are ready and willing to answer (almost) any questions you have about what it takes to earn a living as a writer in the 21st century. Trying to break in as a screenwriter? Animation writer? Video game writer? Comic book scribe? Maybe you're dreaming about publishing that first novel, but you're not sure which way to go. Is it better to take the indie route? Aim for the traditional New York path? Will you need an agent? What about book marketing? How do you build a writer brand? What's the reality of selling books and comics at conventions? Will brick-and-mortar bookstores go the way of the dinosaurs? Is Amazon really the future? Panelist include Neo Edmund (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Red Riding Alpha Huntress Chronicles), Charlotte Fullerton (My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic, Ben 10 Alien Force/Ultimate Alien/Omniverse), Brandon Easton (Marvel's Agent Carter, Transformers: War of Cybertron Siege), Marv Wolfman (Teen Titans, former editor of DC Comics), and Russell Nohelty (WannaBe Press, Katrina Hates the Dead).
Thursday July 18, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
Have an idea for a comic story or character but can't seem to focus it? Veteran comic writer/editor Barbara Kesel (Watchmen, Hellboy, Star Wars), editor/writer/educators Danny Fingeroth (Spider-Man, Write Now magazine), and Dani Colman (Image, Academy of Art University), along with Archie Comics co-president Alex Segura (Pete Fernandez Miami Mystery series, Lethal Lit podcast) and others offer tips on how to strengthen your pitch, characters, or story concept and help you look at the project from the standpoint of an editor or artist who will have to draw it. In this combination panel and workshop, they'll also address specific obstacles that attendees might have with their projects. Moderated by Fast Company 's Sue Karlin.
The shifting 21st century digital frontier means the age-old methods of building a career have been rendered irrelevant. This group of Hollywood screenwriters and graphic novel creators share insider information, publishing secrets, and the professional realities on how to develop your ideas into a viable property and market yourself accordingly. Moderated by 2015 Disney/ABC Writing Program winner and 2014 Eisner Award nominee Brandon Easton (Transformers: War for Cybertron, Marvel's Agent Carter), the panel includes producer Geoffrey Thorne (Black Panther's Quest, The Librarians), artist/writer Tony Puryear (Queen of the South, the Schwarzenegger film Eraser), and writers Ramon Govea and Brandon Thomas (Catalyst Prime: Noble, Skybound's Horizon).
Thursday July 18, 2019 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
Need tips on how to market your content, your comics, and yourselves? This is the panel for you! The comiXology head of content Chip Mosher hosts an exciting panel of comics superstars from all corners of the industry, including Alex Segura (Archie), Spike Trotman (Iron Circus Comics), Hope Nicholson (Bedside Press), Kel McDonald (The Stone King), and Ivan Salazar (comiXology). These self-motivated comic pros will share their hard-earned knowledge on how to make big splash in comics through marketing and PR.
How do you distill a story down to its main components? Comics often call for brevity, but how does that work with a complex story or idea? Comic-Con special guests discuss how they delve into their complex worlds of comics and come out the other side with stories we readily consume. Panelists include Kurt Busiek (Avengers), Jon B. Cooke (Comic Book Artist), and Randall Munroe (xkcd), along with Dani Colman, Tea Fougner (editorial director for comics, King Features Syndicate), and moderator Barbara Dillon.
Thursday July 18, 2019 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
What defines a great comics anthology? The curatorial expertise of a good editor, a unifying aesthetic, or the talent and technique of its contributors? Series editors Sammy Harkham (Kramers Ergot) and Eric Reynolds (Mome, Now) and the oft-anthologized cartoonists Steve Weissman (Yikes!, Barack Hussein Obama), John Pham (J+K), Ron Regé Jr. (The Cartoon Utopia), and Simon Hanselmann (Megahex) discuss the advantages and challenges of the format. Moderated by Abraham Reisman.
Thursday July 18, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
2019 has seen a crop of new and rebranded comics publishers appear, with innovative lineups of both periodicals and graphic novels. From bold start-ups to new imprints at established houses, new publishers with new ideas are making their presence known. All the rules are out the window. Publishers Weekly' s senior news editor Calvin Reid and a panel of publishers will host a frank talk on where comics are going and how they need to change. With Stuart Moore (AHOY Comics) Ted Adams (Clover Press), Liz Francis (Street Noise Press), and Tyler Chin-Tanner (A Wave Blue World).
Thursday July 18, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
San Diego Comic-Con is proud to once again host the Comic Creator Connection, a fast-paced networking event that puts writers and artists together to help them meet potential new creative partners. Here's how it works: Writers and artists will sit down across from each other at a table (artists meaning pencillers, inkers, colorists, etc.—all are welcome!). Then, in 5-minute sessions, you will talk one-on-one with each other about your ideas and skills. At the end of each 5-minute period, you will get up and move on to the next person. If you're interested in furthering the conversation, you can exchange contact information. If not, then politely move on. Think of it as speed-dating, but for writers and artists!
Doug Lefler (inventor of digital comics format Scrollon and creator of Story Attic) and Tom Akel (CCO Graphite) will discuss what has and hasn’t worked in the past, and what looks promising for the future. Joined by Nick Urbom (Founder/CEO of the Infinity Festival) and Michael Son (Tapas web-comics editor-in-chief), they will review paid downloads, subscription models, merchandising, the potential for selling your comic for film or TV and value of giving comics away for free. Digital comics distribution is the most cost effective way to get your material in front of a worldwide audience. Someone will create a way to exploit this market and change the comics industry forever. Their free discussion of ideas and Q&A session moderated by David Derks (ASIFA Hollywood) and Dane Allan Smith (VP, The Third Floor Visualization Studio) is intended to increase the chances of that person being someone on this panel, or in this audience!
Jackson Lanzing (Star Trek: Year One, Green Arrow), Katie Schenkel (The Cardboard Kingdom), and Mairghread Scott (Batgirl, Marvel Rising) discuss the importance of music in helping them connect with and write famous characters. They will be playing some of their favorite song clips and explaining how they connect to their favorite characters in a session moderated by Meg Downey (Pop culture writer at Gamespot).
Screenwriters/producers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (Avengers: Endgame) chat with Backstory magazine's (www.backstory.net) publisher/editor-in-chief Jeff Goldsmith (The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith Podcast) about what it took to plot, write, rewrite, and film both Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame as back-to-back productions for this historic wrap-up of the Marvel Cinematic Universe's amazing 22-film journey.
Ever wonder how a really good books suck a reader in and hold their attention page after page? It might not be the characters, nor even the plot. It could be the way the author writes that separates this story from the pack. During this class, you will gain insights on how to put your story together in a compelling way that will have your readers turning page after page to see what happens next. Presented by Maxwell Alexander Drake, an award-winning science fiction/fantasy author, graphic novelist, and playwright. He is best known for his fantasy series, The Genesis of Oblivion Saga. Drake teaches creative writing at writers' conferences and fan conventions around the country.
Enjoy exploring science, history, space, and more through sequential art with Randall Munroe (How to), John Hendrix (The Faithful Spy), Don Brown (Rocket to the Moon! Big Ideas That Changed the World #1), Dylan Meconis (Queen of the Sea), Jim Ottaviani (Hawking), and Rachel Ignotofsky (Women in Art) in conversation with librarian Judy Prince-Neeb (Chula Vista Public Library).
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 32AB
Bestselling creators engage in a lively discussion of what-ifs about the future as foretold in their work and unfolding in the world. Panelists Jonathan Maberry (VWars, Joe Ledger series), Seanan McGuire (X-Men), Javier Grillo-Marxuach (Dark Crystal, Lost, Blood and Treasure), Steven L. Sears (A-Team, Xena), Timothy Zahn (Star Wars, Terminator), and Gini Koch (Alien) are moderated by Bryan Thomas Schmidt.
Friday July 19, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC
Karen Berger (Vertigo founder) brings together a panel of some of the industry's best writers—including Jeff Lemire, co-creator of Black Hammer; Nnedi Okorafor, co-creator of LaGuardia; Christopher Cantwell, co-creator of She Could Fly; and Jody Houser, writer for Stranger Things and Critical Role—to discuss about what it takes to write comic books and to highlight Berger Books' newest groundbreaking series.
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
It's the annual look at the state of writing about comics. Editors and writers reveal the ups and downs of covering comics, comic cons, and comics media, with a special emphasis on social media's impact—from cancel culture, responding to reviews, scrambling for scoops, making sure diverse voices are heard and more. With Wendy Browne (Women Write About Comics), Corrina Lawson (Geek Mom), Therese Lacson (Nerdophiles), Rosie Knight (Nerdist), James Viscardi (Comicbook.com), and others.
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
From urban fantasy to epic fantasy to superheroes, fantasy contains multitudes of the amazing and the astonishing. Authors Renee Ahdieh (The Beautiful), Lauren Shippen (The Infinite Noise), Katy Pool (There Will Come a Darkness), Nicole Conway (Legend), Sherrilyn Kenyon (Stygian, Deadman's Cross series), and Marissa Meyer (Supernova) serve up spicy tropes and savory imaginations across a multitude of subgenres in conversation with David Canfield (Entertainment Weekly).
Friday July 19, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
From international distribution to nationwide grants, Eisner Award nominations and Governor-General Award–winning creators, Bedside Press is the little Canadian micropublisher that could. Find out what's coming next in 2019 and 2020, including exclusive SDCC announcements! Featuring Kris Straub (podcaster, 28 Plays Later), Amanda Deibert (writer, Work for a Million), S. M. Beiko (editor, Gothic Tales of Haunted Love), Steenz Stewart (editor, Work for a Million), Lilah Sturges (writer, Maiden, Mother, Crone), Ashley Robinson (Science!), and Hope Nicholson (publisher, Bedside Press).
Friday July 19, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Let's celebrate the diversity of strong female characters, authors, and publishers in contemporary kids' comics! Panelists include Raina Telgemeier (Guts), Peggy Burns (publisher, Drawn & Quarterly), and Claudia Aguirre (Morning in America), and Jennifer Holm (Sunny Rolls the Dice). Moderated by Candice Mack (Eisner Awards judge, Los Angeles Public Library). In conjunction with CBC Graphic Novel Committee.
Ursula Vernon (author and illustrator, Dragonbreath, Digger, Hamster Princess) talks about writing and drawing comics for kids and adults and balancing the job of art with the art of writing.
Friday July 19, 2019 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 15, 05:10PM Panelists Jann Jones (Legendary), Henry Barajas (Top Cow), David Mariotte (IDW Publishing), Chynna Clugston Flores (Image Comics), Shannon Eric Denton (WildStorm/DC Comics), and Sarah Gaydos (Oni) talk about America's best comics editors and what they do. What's the right way to edit a book? Is there a wrong way to edit a book? Making comics is a team sport, and good editing brings out the very best work possible from your team. Learn tips and tricks from a wide range of editorial talent who will guide you through the comics-making process, whether on indie darlings, creator-owned graphic novels, corporate juggernauts, licensed properties, short-story anthologies, or long-running fan favorite series. Every style of comic will be covered!
Jonathan Maberry (X-Files) hosts this year's Scribe Awards for excellence in tie-in writing, including honoring this year's Grandmaster Award “Faust” winner, Nancy Holder. Other panelists include Matt Forbeck (The Marvel Encyclopedia, Halo: Bad Blood), Michael Kogge (The Last Jedi: A Junior Novel), Chris Ryall (comic book writer, publisher at IDW), Max Allan Collins (Road to Perdition, Mike Hammer), Christie Golden (Star Wars, World of Warcraft), and David Boop (Predator, Veronica Mars).
Friday July 19, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 10, 04:35PM Why do so many readers want to spend time in an imagined world or society in which people lead wretched, dehumanized, fearful lives? Authors Marie Lu (Rebel), Jess Rothenberg (The Kingdom), Rachel Caine (Sword and Pen), Richard Kadrey (The Grand Dark), Ally Condie (The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe), and S. L. Huang (Null Set) discuss the delights of dark works with Mallory O'Meara (The Lady from the Black Lagoon).
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 08, 08:30PM There is more science fiction and fantasy on TV and in the movies than ever before, and while these genres may seem like opportunities for a writer's imagination to run wild, in fact their stories benefit from rules and parameters. These guidelines help ground a writer's fancies and create a recognizable world for the characters. But coming up with the rules of magic and science fiction is more difficult than it seems. These professionals, who have created detailed, grounded worlds, tell how they did it: Deric Hughes (Arrow, The Flash, Warehouse 13), Jose Molina (Magic: The Gathering, The Tick), Julie Benson and Shawna Benson (Wu Assassins, The 100), Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex), Gennifer Hutchison (Better Call Saul, The Strain), Chris Dingess (Doom Patrol, Being Human, Manifest Destiny comic), Kieron Gillen (The Wicked & The Divine, Die), Adam Rogers (Wired magazine). Moderated by TV and comics writer Ben Blacker (DC's Hex Wives, The Thrilling Adventure Hour).
Friday July 19, 2019 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Looking back at speculative fiction over the years, we can see history's impact on our most influential authors, from Asimov to Tolkien. Some of speculative fiction's current influential authors, including Blake Crouch (Recursion, Dark Matter), Rob Hart (The Warehouse), Kali Wallace (Salvation Day), and Chuck Wendig (Wanderers, Miriam Black series), discuss how our present affects their own writing and speculations on what the future will bring, with moderator Tricia Narwani (Del Rey editorial director).
As we near the epic conclusion of the Skywalker saga with Star Wars: Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker, some of the biggest and best Star Wars authors and artists gather to discuss new and upcoming stories set in a galaxy far, far away. Featuring Lou Anders (Pirate's Price), Katie Cook (Creatures Big & Small), Zorida Córdova (A Crash of Fate), Delilah Dawson (Black Spire), E. K. Johnston (Queen's Shadow), George Mann (Myths & Fables), Brian Rood (The Skywalker Saga), Cavan Scott (Dooku: Jedi Lost), Kevin Shinick (Force Collector), Charles Soule (Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith), Timothy Zahn (Thrawn: Treason), and Rebecca Roanhorse (Resistance Reborn). Moderated by Lucasfilm's Michael Siglain and Jennifer Heddle.
UPDATED: Thu, Jul 11, 05:48PM Brian Pulido has raised over $2.5 million on Kickstarter for comic books! Get the lowdown as Brian gives you exclusive insights on how to market and crowdfund indie comics. All your comic book Kickstarter questions answered and he'll have an update on all Coffin Comics activities as they take over the globe!
Friday July 19, 2019 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
Members of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) discuss writing careers, tips and tricks, and the one big secret that got them published. Learn how SFWA supports SF and fantasy writers and how it can help you with your creative career. Panelists include Jeffe Kennedy (The Orchid Throne), Marie Andreas (The Diamond Sphinx), Greg van Eekhout (Voyage of the Dogs), Greg Bear (Take Back the Sky; Comic-Con special guest), Jonathan Brazee (Fire Ant), and Kyle Aisteach (Little Dystopias).
Anne Sowards (Ace Books), Caitlin Whalen (Penguin Young Readers Group), and Jennifer Dee (Penguin Young Readers) give you the dish on forthcoming books from their authors and licensed properties, such as William Gibson, Marie Lu, Stephen Donaldson, Renee Ahdieh, Patricia Briggs, Stephane Perkins, Traci Chee, Brendan Reichs, Rachel Caine, and many more. You can expect giveaways like finished books or advanced reading copies!
Friday July 19, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
Get in touch with your dark side! Forget the boring heroes-fandom loves its villains. Loki, Harley Quinn, Darth Vader, The Joker . . . With their fascinating backstories, dangerous aesthetics, and devil-may-care attitudes, it's easy to see why many fans identify with the bad guys. But what does it say about you when you proudly claim allegiance to Slytherin House, the 501st, or Hydra? Adron Buske (Fictitious Podcast) and a group of writers and creators—including authors Marissa Meyer (The Lunar Chronicles, The Renegades Trilogy), Renée Ahdieh (The Wrath and the Dawn series, Flame in the Mist series), Keto Shimizu (Legends of Tomorrow, Arrow), Caitlin Starling (The Luminous Dead), and Shaun Barger (Mage Against The Machine)—will explore fan fascination with fictional antagonists.
Friday July 19, 2019 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 32AB
We all deserve to be fit and healthy, physically and emotionally. But when we feel depressed, anxious, or left behind by the traditional health and fitness industry, how can we begin to care for ourselves? Stories have been powerful aids for mental well-being throughout history, and physical and mental fitness programs that embrace storytelling as a motivating tool are just beginning to make an impact. Panelists Satine Phoenix (The Gilding Light), Sam de Leve (Callisto 6), Todd Stashwick (12 Monkeys), Edward Doty (Jukin Media), Christy Black (Hero's Journey Fitness), and Dr. Andrea Letamendi (The Arkham Sessions, UCLA) host a discussion of how storytelling, role-playing games, and the books, TV, movies, and comics we love can make a positive impact on our overall health. Moderated by David Nett (Starter Kit).
Friday July 19, 2019 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
If used correctly, POV is a wonderful and powerful tool that is the backbone of your story. Maxwell Alexander Drake will help break this piece of the writing puzzle down into something you can use to enhance your writing. Drake is an award-winning science fiction/fantasy author, graphic novelist, and playwright. He is best known for his fantasy series, The Genesis of Oblivion Saga. Drake teaches creative writing at writers' conferences and fan conventions around the country.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 2
Two industry legends for one low price! Walter Simonson and Stan Sakai need no introduction, but Scott Dunbier will give them one anyway! Come for the latest news on their creator-owned masterworks Ragnarök and Usagi Yojimbo, stay for fascinating tales of comics industry lore, Norse legends, and feudal Japan! Added bonus: The equally legendary Louise “Weezie” Simonson will be joining the fun!
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC
Writers from your favorite 1980s cartoon series including Len Uhley (Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears, DuckTales), Marv Wolfman (Transformers, Fraggle Rock), Karen Willson (G.I. Joe, She-Ra), Craig Miller (The Real Ghostbusters, The Smurfs), and Brynne Chandler (He-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) will recount their fondest memories and painful war stories about the shows that made your childhood.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 9
Comics is now a far more diverse community and an economic powerhouse to boot. But working conditions are still terrible. Why? And how do we change that? Editor Joan Hilty (Nickelodeon), writer Mairghread Scott (Batgirl, Marvel Rising), fandom pioneer Maggie Thompson (Comics Buyers' Guide), and colorist Marissa Louise (Hex Wives) dive into the past, present, and future of comics labor rights.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 29AB
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 19, 06:27AM It's a great big universe, filled with an amazing assortment of challenges and perils for characters to face and extraordinary encounters to discover. Boldly go forth with authors Maura Milan (Ignite the Stars and Eclipse the Skies), Mark Siegel (5 Worlds Book 3: The Red Maze), Tochi Onyebuchi (War Girls, Riot Baby),and Ashley Poston (Soul of Stars,The Princess and the Fangirl), in conversation with Maryelizabeth Yturralde of Mysterious Galaxy.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 7AB
Come see this annual all-star, insider look at your favorite TV series from the scribes behind some of today's hottest genre shows. The lineup this year includes moderator Chris Parnell (co-president, Sony Pictures Television), Gabrielle Stanton (Titans,The Flash, Haven), Ashley E. Miller (Lore, Fringe, Black Sails), Amy Berg (Counterpart, Eureka), V. J. Boyd (Lincoln, Justified), Steven Melching (Star Wars Rebels, The Clone Wars), Ryan Condal (Colony), Deric Hughes (Arrow, The Flash), Javier-Grillo Marxuach (Netflix's Dark Crystal, The Middleman), Kay Reindl (Swamp Thing, Freakish), Michael Narducci (The Originals, The Vampire Diaries, Medium), and Mark A. Altman (CW's Pandora,The Librarians). Also win a chance to receive a free copy of the new Final Draft 11.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Room 24ABC
Learn how Comic-Con special guest Carey Pietsch (Lumberjanes;Adventure Time: Marceline Gone Adrift) helps to adapt The Adventure Zone from podcast, an audio medium, into comics, a visual medium-and how she works with the McElroys to convey the rollicking tone of their dynamic Dungeons & Dragons gameplay. Clint McElroy (War of the Realms: Journey into Mystery) joins in to discuss his role writing the comic and co-creating the podcast, as well as also working with Carey to shape the free-form interaction of D&D into a tighter visual narrative. Peter Coogan (Comics Arts Conference) moderates.
Saturday July 20, 2019 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 26AB
Two of the founders of San Diego Comic-Con (Greg Bear and David Clark) discuss the con's beginnings and their times with such Comic-Con heroes as Jack Kirby, Chuck Jones, Bob Clampett, George Clayton Johnson, Forry Ackerman, and Ray Bradbury.
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Do you have what it takes for the Top Cow Talent Hunt? Are you ready for the return of Postal ? Where is Jackie Estacado ? Top Cow founder Marc Silvestri and president Matt Hawkins will accompany your favorite indie creators to part their wisdom and give you a taste of what's coming in 2020.
Saturday July 20, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 4
Know your rights! Hear from members of CBLDF for this fast-paced overview of the legal rights comic book stores depend upon. Learn about the law and your rights while getting tangible how-to info for managing risk scenarios like police visits, media attacks, and more. A must-attend for current and aspiring comic store staffers and creators alike.
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 11
Collin Kelly (Star Trek: Year One), Dafna Pleban (editor, BOOM! Studios), Mae Catt (Transformers: Cyberverse), and Mairghread Scott (Marvel Rising) debate their favorite relationships in pop culture. Find out whose ship is going to sink and whose will soar in a Q&A session moderated by Meg Downey (pop culture writer at Gamespot).
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
What do these powerhouse YA authors have in common? They all are writing groundbreaking, highly acclaimed (or highly anticipated) work that pulls from the trials and tribulations of real life to create mind-bending fantasy. Tomi Adeyemi (Children of Blood and Bone) tackles systemic racism in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy. Marie Lu (Legend trilogy) contemplates economic disparity and climate change in her series and the upcoming Rebel . Margaret Owen (The Merciful Crow) promotes social justice in her debut. And Hafsah Faizal (We Hunt the Flame) dispels myths about Arabian culture in her first novel. Moderated by Mary Pearson (The Remnant Chronicles, Dance of Thieves), author of the upcoming Vow of Thieves .
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
The entertainment world, with its plethora of great characters and interesting universes, is no stranger to reboots and expanding universes. A reboot is often a chance to widen appeal and make it easy for new readers to jump in and offers an opportunity to update outmoded ways of thinking. These reinventions and expansions must navigate shaking up a formula, reframing a world, and bringing a contemporary eye to classic stories and iconic characters without alienating the core audience that fell for these characters so many years ago. Panelists Preeti Chhibber (Spider-Man: Far From Home: Peter and Ned's Ultimate Travel Journal), Sina Grace (Iceman), Javier Grillo-Marxuach (The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance), Jody Houser (Star Wars: Age of Republic), Sarah Kuhn (Shadow of the Batgirl), and Jackson Lanzing (Star Trek: Year 5) discuss how to breathe new life into old characters and avoid the unforgiving pit of the trite homage.
A panel on how students from two nations collaborated to write and illustrate a comic about environmental stewardship using the migration of the hummingbird. Timothy Stiven and Zachary Brown, conservatory coordinators from Canyon Crest Academy, San Diego, will lead a session with student writers and editors Ashley Jabro, Hannah Wentworth, Samantha Chai, Justin Wang, and Giovanna Agrazal (Panama) and artists Katie Sheng, Jessica Li, and Riley Sullivan. they'll be discussing what it takes to edit and illustrate a student created multivolume graphic novel internationally.
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 15, 10:00PM The creators of Life Is Strange host an exclusive panel discussion! Join Raoul Barbet, co-creative director, and Jean-Luc Cano, lead writer of Life Is Strange and Life Is Strange 2, for an in-depth look at the genesis of Life Is Strange 2. Experience the backstory behind the narrative so far, discover behind-the-scenes secrets of the research involved in creating the game’s relatable characters, grounded settings and extraordinary events!
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 5AB
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 10, 09:53PM Moderator Spiro Skentzos (Arrow) and TV writers/showrunners Keto Shimizu (DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), Michael Narducci (The Vampire Diaries), Kira Snyder (Handmaid’s Tale), Michael D. Fuller (Locke & Key), and Averie Huffine (VP, Television Development, BOOM! Studios) discuss navigating the TV spec terrain, including beginner's mistakes, what they look for in a writer, and what it takes for you to write a killer spec that will stand above the crowd. There will be a huge Q&A component, so bring your questions.
Saturday July 20, 2019 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
Billy Tucci's Crowfunding Comics YouTube channel leads a spirited discussion on how to Kickstart your own success from comic and film superstars Brian Pulido (Lady Death), Jimmy Palmiotti (Painkiller Jane), Tucci (Shi), Doug TenNapel (Earthworm Jim), Brian Miller (Hi-Fi Color for Comics), and Steven Peros (Stoker & Wells). Moderated by J. C. Vaughn (Vampire, PA).
Saturday July 20, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Learn about writing, publishing, and book-to-movie adaptations from award-winning and NY Times bestselling fantasy and science fiction authors Tomi Adeyemi (Children of Blood and Bone), Lev Grossman (The Magicians), A. G. Howard (Splintered), Aditi Khorana (Mirror in the Sky), and Jonathan Maberry (V-Wars). Moderated by Henry Herz (Alice's Magic Garden).
Saturday July 20, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
The Eisner, Hugo, and Inkpot Award–winning writer/producer will discuss his autobiography Becoming Superman -which is debuting here at SDCC via Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore-and his long-awaited (some might say long-feared) return to comics, helping create a new comic book universe for Artists, Writers, and Artisans, the new comic book company launched by Marvelites Bill Jemas and Axel Alonso. Straczynski's spotlight appearances are an SDCC tradition and a favorite among law enforcement officials searching for clues that would connect him to the Black Dahlia Murder.
Saturday July 20, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 7AB
The author of The Time Traveler's Wife and Bizarre Romance, Audrey Niffeneger, will be interviewed by award-winning comics editor Diana Schutz. topics may include art, love, loss, sex, death, ghosts, cats, and why it's taking a long time to write the sequel to The Time Traveler's Wife. There will be a Q&A.
Saturday July 20, 2019 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC
Whoever said “the shortest distance between two points is a straight line” definitely wasn't trying to get into comic books! If you want to find out how some of DC's most popular talent found their way into the industry, then here's your chance to get an inside look at how some of DC's top writers and artist broke into the business and ended up creating stories featuring your favorite DC heroes and villains.
Saturday July 20, 2019 1:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room 6DE
Despite the title, in many ways "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" didn't have that many in Joseph Campbell's mid-20th century observations. Today's fiction works are just as imaginative as any in the world's history, and more expansive. Authors and 21st century heroes Leah Thomas (Wild And Crooked), Hafsah Faizal (We Hunt the Flame), Clare Di Liscia (Neliem), E. K. Johnston (Star Wars: Queen's Shadow), and Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex series) discuss protagonists we can all see ourselves in with Maryelizabeth Yturralde (Mysterious Galaxy).
Saturday July 20, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
A panel for all creators who want to know how to increase their sales, newcomers looking to break into sales jobs, and publishers looking to learn from the professionals. Featuring experienced staff behind large publishers, including Allison King (formerly of Penguin Random House), Spencer Simpson (BOOM! Studios), Sean Brice (Dark Horse), Bob Wayne (former SVP of Sales at DC), and Devin Funches (Lion Forge). Moderated by Hope Nicholson (publisher, Bedside Press).
Saturday July 20, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 5AB
Willie Ito discusses his 50 years in animation working for a multitude of companies such as Disney, Warner Bros., Bob Clampett, Hanna-Barbera, and Sanrio, as well as his comic book work with Marvel, Petersen Publishing, and Western Publishing. Having held such titles as producer/director for Aloha Productions, product designer for Disney Consumer Products, and publisher for Yabitoon Books, Willie will have much to speak about.
Stan Sakai and moderator Jessica Tseang talk about his 35 years of writing and drawing his creator-owned series Usagi Yojimbo. See what's in store for this samurai rabbit as he is relaunched this summer with a new publisher: IDW.
Saturday July 20, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Who puts the fun in "Reading is fundamental"? These creators! Have a jolly good time with vampires, aliens, magic, and more with authors Whitney Gardner (Fake Blood), Sarah Andersen (Cheshire Crossing), Gini Koch (Aliens Like Us), Thomas Lennon (Ronan Boyle and the Bridge of Riddles), and Brandon Mull (Dragonwatch) in conversation with Brendan Reichs (The Darkdeep).
Saturday July 20, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Rockstar Games is hiring. They are in search of talented illustrators as well as graphic and conceptual artists to join their team and become part of some of the most creatively rewarding, large-scale projects to be found in any entertainment medium. Please come by with your C.V. and portfolio to discuss opportunities.
UPDATED: Tue, Jul 09, 06:56PM The Lady of the Lake finds her voice in Cursed, a twist on the tale of King Arthur--soon to be an original Netflix series starring Katherine Langford in 2020. Creators Tom Wheeler and legendary artist/producer/director Frank Miller (300, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Sin City) hold a not-to-be-missed discussion about their debut YA coming-of-age novel about Nimue, who grows from a sheltered priestess-in-training to a teenager hell-bent on revenge, and finally, to a young woman with the power to change the fate of the world.
Saturday July 20, 2019 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Room 6DE
The past decade has seen an explosion in the scope of journalism-from the rise of citizen-journalism to blogging to vloggers, podcasters, and online-only news sources. This panel of writers and hosts from CBR, Geek Magazine, Digital Bits, Bleeding Cool, Film Threat, and others will talk about the roles new-media play between their readers and the industries and communities they serve. Topics will include varying levels of informality versus classic ideas of professionalism, show specific outlets versus general news sites, and more.
Do you enjoy slice-of-life stories about vampires and other creatures of the night? Bree Paulsen, author and artist of Patrik the Vampire, will host a fun conversation about webcomics, big stories with small stakes, and the joys of writing about monsters in mundane situations. Moderated by Claire Hummel (In the Valley of Gods).
Saturday July 20, 2019 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 12, 04:40PM James Killen, head buyer of sci-fi and fantasy for Barnes & Noble, talks to Cory Doctorow (Radicalized), Seanan McGuire (Middlegame), Charlie Jane Anders (The City in the Middle of the Night), Annalee Newitz (The Future of Another Timeline), and Sarah Gailey (Magic for Liars) about the process of creation from the perspective of first-time authors to veterans of multiple genres. The discussion will touch on the difficulty creators have in cultivating and maintaining community and fandom and the difficulties of bringing fans with them as they cross over, balancing one's identity as a writer, and the importance of social media.
Saturday July 20, 2019 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Visionary creator Hideo Kojima discusses his process as a game director and storyteller, most notably for his upcoming project Death Stranding. Moderated by The Game Awards creator Geoff Keighley, with special guest Nicolas Winding Refn (Drive, Too Old to Die Young).
Saturday July 20, 2019 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
Room 6BCF
Michael C. Grumley, bestselling author of the Breakthrough series, teams up with renowned audiobook narrator Scott Brick to share secrets of successfully self-publishing your novel and getting it to the marketplace. From choosing a lucrative topic to avoiding common missteps, Grumley and Brick offer invaluable insight in this attendee-interactive panel. Moderated by Gina Smith, production manager at Scott Brick Productions.
UPDATED: Tue, Jul 09, 07:37PM Award-winning diverse women writers and producers will discuss creating stories with strong diverse female characters across TV, animation, comics, and games; they'll also address the importance of diverse representation, getting started in writing, and their career paths from writing to executive producing top shows. Panelists include Nicole Dubuc (Star Wars Forces of Destiny, Rebels; producer of Transformers: Rescue Bots Academy; winner of WGA Animation Writing Award), Denise Downer (Marvel's Avengers Black Panther's Quest, Power Rangers: Beast Morphers), Keto Shimizu (DC's Legends of Tomorrow, executive producer and writer; Arrow), Silvia Olivas (Disney's Elena of Avalor, producer and writer; Moesha), Anne Toole (Horizon Zero Dawn, WGA Video Game Award winner; The Lizzie Bennet Diaries), Joelle Sellner (DC Super Hero Girls, Sonic Boom), and Gloria Shen (Disney Channel's Amphibia). Moderated by Kevin Winston, Digital LA, CEO.
Saturday July 20, 2019 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
Science fiction allows us to imagine a world radically reshaped by social, scientific, and technological changes. These creators share a tendency to push those scenarios to their limits, envisioning future or alternate realities that tend to extremes, whether they be good, bad, or downright absurd. Charles Glaubitz (Starseeds), Ezra Claytan Daniels (Upgrade Soul, BTTM FDRS), and Aminder Dhaliwal (Woman World) participate in a discussion of the ways that science fiction comics can transport us to utopia, dystopia, or that big gray area in between. Moderated by Evan Narcisse (Rise of the Black Panther).
Executive editor Joseph Rybandt introduces artist Darick Robertson (The Boys) plus surprise panelists to reveal behind-the-scenes stories about everyone's favorite renegades. Q&A session moderated by CEO/publisher Nick Barrucci.
Saturday July 20, 2019 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 26AB
Adventure, science fiction, fantasy, and fairytales; the publisher of some of genre's best and brightest stars is here to talk about what's next on the horizon from Del Rey Books. Hear from authors Pierce Brown (Red Rising series), Adam Christopher (Stranger Things: Darkness on the Edge of Town), Paul Krueger (Steel Crow Saga), Delilah S. Dawson (Kill the Farm Boy, Star Wars: Phasma), Chuck Wendig (Wanderers, Miriam Black series), and Timothy Zahn (Star Wars: Thrawn: Treason) as they discuss their new and upcoming books with moderator Tricia Narwani (Del Rey editorial director).
Saturday July 20, 2019 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 5AB
Liesa Abrams (marketing), Chrissy Noh (marketing), Lisa Moraleda (publicity), Devin MacDonald (marketing), Jill Hacking (marketing), and Lili Feinberg (publicity) offer a sneak peek at the hottest books and properties coming from Simon & Schuster in 2019, including books by fan-favorite authors. Attendees will take home exclusive swag.
Molly Mahan (editor at DC Comics), Tomm Coker (Black Monday Murders, Image Comics), Paul Roman Martinez (Adventures of 19XX), Ethan McQuerrey (Lore of the Hávamál), and Cat Mihos (director of development for Neil Gaiman) will be discussing how to break in to self-publishing and much more.
Saturday July 20, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
Creators such as Genese Davis (The Holder's Dominion; Omensight), Jon McGoran (Spliced), Randy Varnell (Borderlands), and Devri Walls (Venators) will divulge their creation process for fantastic villains. Catch this chilling discussion and vote for which villain wins the best villain award!
Saturday July 20, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
From tired to wired, problematic to plucky, tropes have always existed in character arcs, plot devices, and even character types. Panelists Ray Utarnachitt (Legends of Tomorrow), Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex), Jeane Wong (Arrow), Nilah Magruder (Marvel Rising), Jenn Polish (Lunav), and Valerie Complex (Black Girl Nerds) will discuss how to use and develop tropes in writing, from subverting harmful tropes in nuanced ways to using clichéd tropes with a refreshing new voice. Moderated by C. B. Lee (Sidekick Squad series).
Saturday July 20, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 11
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 19, 04:48PM Love Midsommer? Mandy? Get Out? The Witch? The Invitation? The Babadook? It Follows? Some of the most knowledgeable and influential voices in horror today discuss the state of indie and studio horror film, as well as the rise of horror in television and streaming services, and give a sneak peek at the best to come this year, with exclusive footage from festival standouts including Little Monsters starring Lupita Nyong'o, The Lodge from Goodnight Mommy directors Severin Fiala and Veronica Franz, Daniel Isn’t Real starring Halloween (2018)’s Miles Robbins and Villains, starring Maika Monroe (It Follows, The Guest) and Bill Skarsgård (It, Castle Rock). This is the place to come to find out which upcoming horror flicks should be on your must-see list and discuss current trends in the horror genre. Panelists include Ryan Turek (VP of Development, Blumhouse), Mali Elfman (producer, Before I Wake, The Party's Just Beginning, co-founder of Fun Size Horror), Akela Cooper (writer/producer, American Horror Story, Luke Cage, The Nun 2) Gigi Saul Guerrero (writer/director, Hulu/Blumhouse’s Into The Dark), and Adam Egypt Mortimer (writer/director, Some Kind of Hate, Daniel Isn’t Real). Moderated by film critic Amy Nicholson (host, Halloween: Unmasked, Unspooled).
Saturday July 20, 2019 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC
UPDATED: Sun, Jul 07, 05:12PM Love "Choose Your Own Adventure" genre video games? Find out more from the cast, writers, and directors behind some of the fan favorite multibranching games series ever made, as this panel dives into the writing, process, mo-cap, production, and memories along the way. Hear Chris Rebbert (The Walking Dead), Bryan Dechart and Amelia Rose Blaire (Detroit), Raoul Barbet (Life Is Strange), Ella Lentini (Until Dawn), and L. K. Shelley (Aggretsuko Moment) chat with moderator Jennie Kong (Summerland) about the future of this genre in games.
The second-most-common question JMS gets at SDCC each year is "How do I become a writer?" (The first-most-common question is, "Can you please just leave?" but we'll discuss that another time.) This popular workshop is an opportunity for aspiring writers to get the best advice available on achieving success, direct from the horse's mouth (or the other end). Freewheeling and frank, the workshop requires participation, so bring your very best questions about techniques, marketing, and other matters relevant to breaking in as a writer in comics, film, and TV. Your second-best questions should be directed, randomly, at Marv Wolfman.
Ann Leckie is the author of the multi-award-winning novel Ancillary Justice, and just out this year, her first fantasy novel, The Raven Tower. Ann will be hosting this Q&A session so you can ask her about her books, about writing, or whatever else strikes your fancy.
Sunday July 21, 2019 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 29AB
Hear from experienced children's literary agents about the dos and don'ts of getting traditionally published. Ffeaturing Thao Le (Sandra Dijkstra Literary), Hannah Mann (Writers House), Kelly Sonnack (Andrea Brown Literary), and Stefanie Von Borstel (Full Circle Literary). Moderated by author Henry Herz (How the Squid Got Two Long Arms).
The eternally fascinating topic of the differences in storytelling and process of stories told in books and comics to television and film panel is the focus of discussion for Audrey Niffenegger (Bizarre Romance, The Time Traveler's Wife), Max Brallier (The Last Kids on Earth and the Midnight Blade), and Blake Crouch (Recursion), with moderator Beth Accomando (host of KPBS Cinema Junkie podcast).
Sunday July 21, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 12, 04:27PM Whether your X-Wing is chasing down a TIE fighter or you're whispering "dracarys" as your pet dragon turns your enemies to ash, it's undeniable that sci-fi and fantasy are linked. These forms of storytelling both do one thing: provide a way to imagine what could be. Hear from this panel of “wizards” as they discuss the subtle differences that separate sci-fi and fantasy or even if there truly is a difference at all. Featuring Geoff Mark (Serenity, The Orville), E. J. De la Pena (Jingle All The Way, Nobility), Geoff Thorne (Avengers: Black Panther's Quest, Librarians), Gillian Horvath (Sanctuary, Beauty and the Beast), Steven L. Sears (Xena, Stalag X), Ellen Dubin (Lexx, Skyrim), and moderator Joe Ochman (Naruto, Bones).
Comic-Con special guest Greg Bear (HALO: Forerunner Saga), along with David Brin (Chasing Shadows: Visions of Our Coming Transparent World) and Larry Niven (Man-Kzin Wars XV)-three of speculative fiction's iconic authors-will be in conversation discussing time travel from the mid-20th century to today, one day at a time. The conversation will be guided by Dr. Travis Langley (Black Panther Psychology,The Joker Psychology), psychology professor at Henderson State University.
Sunday July 21, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC
In an increasingly polarized world, myth-makers are in a unique position to bring fans together. Sohaib Awan (creator of IDW Publishing's Jinnrise) leads a discussion with leaders in international multimedia about building bridges through storytelling. Authors Hafsah Faizal (We Hunt the Flame), Daniel José Older (Dactyl Hill Squad), Rebecca Roanhorse (Trail of Lightning), and Axie Oh (Rebel Seoul), along with IDW President Chris Ryall, will give their take on where genre entertainment is today and the opportunities/responsibilities global creators have.
UPDATED: Thu, Jul 11, 10:30PM Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, Stranger Things, Firefly . . . it's a great time for those who love mystical, magical worlds. Bestselling and award-winning YA authors geek out over their favorite fandoms, discuss what's next now that Endgame and Game of Thrones are over, and chat about how a love of all things fandom translates into the world of YA lit! Panelists: Tricia Levenseller, author (Daughter of the Pirate King, Warrior of the Wild), Mary E. Pearson, author (The Kiss of Deception, Dance of Thieves), A. G. Howard, author (Roseblood, Stain), Mary Weber, author (To Best the Boys, The Evaporation of Sofi Snow), C. B. Lee, author (Not Your Sidekick, Seven Tears at High Tide).
Sunday July 21, 2019 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 23ABC
Documentary filmmaker and pop culturist Randall Lobb hosts a panel of IP experts, owners, artists, and stakeholders to discuss the cultivation, care, and treatment of pop culture's biggest, best, and most scrutinized intellectual properties. They'll discuss what makes some iterations and reboots soar while others struggle to find an audience. In a presentation rich with never-before-seen BTS footage, this panel of experts will bring the audience inside the circle of trust to hear the decision making that gets their favorite stories and characters off the page and onto the screen. Trevor Zammit, designer/sculptor/TMNT fan (NECA) and a host of famous faces from Def Doc bring their professional perspective, share stories, and go all the way inside the IP fans love.
Sam Sykes, one of the only people to have their time-wasting Twitter posts turned into a movie,will talk about books, social media, and whatever else he can think about-it's his spotlight, after all. As the author of Seven Blades in Black, the Bring Down Heaven trilogy, and the Affinity for Steel trilogy, as well as comics like Brave Chef Brianna, there'll probably be a lot of talking about books.
Sunday July 21, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 24ABC
Aminder Dhaliwal (Woman World), Ebony Flowers (Hot Comb), Kevin Huizenga (The River at Night), Randall Munroe (What If), and Sophie Yanow (The Contradictions) are masters of the short form comic, whether serialized online, in pamphlets, or collected in graphic novel form. Sarah Mirk, senior editor at The Nib, leads a conversation on pacing, flow from story to story (or strip to strip), and much more.
Sunday July 21, 2019 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 28DE
The Winner Twins, Brittany and Brianna, multiple award-winning and national-bestselling science fiction and fantasy authors known for their popular Strand series, explain how to create your own novel step by step, from building your universe to overcoming writer's block to the different paths to publishing. The twins have taught their unique award-winning creative writing method to hundreds of thousands of convention attendees, teachers, and students across the country. They will be joined by Todd McCaffrey (New York Times bestselling author, Dragon Riders of Pern), Sherrilyn Kenyon (New York Times bestselling author, The Dark-Hunters series, Chronicles of Nick), and Graeme Manson (screenwriter and executive producer, Orphan Black,Snowpiercer), as well as other panelists to be announced. They will share their war stories, answer your questions, and teach you how to craft your story idea into a marketable novel, television series, or film franchise.
Bestselling romance authors talk about the extraordinary year in romance, the power of the happily ever after, and what to expect in the year ahead in books, TV, and film. They'll discuss the importance of the genre on the page and on screen, favorite troupes, and more. Featuring authors Raphael Bob-Waksberg (Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged Glory), Tessa Dare (The Wallflower Wager), Jen DeLuca (Well Met), Christina Lauren (The Unhoneymooners), Alisha Rai (The Right Swipe), Rebekah Weatherspoon (Rafe), and moderator Kate Spencer (Forever35 Podcast). Room 29AB
Sunday July 21, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 29AB
UPDATED: Sun, Jul 07, 09:46PM John Semper, Jr. (Spider-Man: The Animated Series, Fox TV Animation), Kinitra Brooks (Searching for Sycorax: Black Women’s Hauntings of Contemporary Horror, 2017 Bram Stoker Award nominee), David Walker (Bitter Root, Image Comics and Legendary Pictures), Stanford Carpenter (Black & Brown Comix Arts Festival), and Jazmine Joyner (pop culture journalist, Rotten Tomatoes) discuss diversity, visibility, and inclusion in comics and popular culture, moderated by Aaron Grizzell (executive director of the NorcalMLK Foundation).
Staring down a deadline? Running in fear from a blank page? Veteran writer/editor Barbara Randall Kesel (Shadowzone, Hawk & Dove) delivers a solution or three at hummingbird speed! For writers and artists, new or seasoned. Motivation or entertainment-you decide!
Sunday July 21, 2019 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 28DE