Dark Horse Comics Schedule for SDCC 2014

July 23, 2014 by Colin Solan
Filed under Animation, Anime, California, Comic Books, Comic-Con International, Convention News, Horror, Manga, Movies, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Television, Top Stories, Video Games, Webcomics

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DARK HORSE COMICS SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2014 BOOTH #2615

SIGNING SCHEDULE

All creators signing in our booth offer their autographs for FREE. FREE prints, comics, or posters are provided for most of our signings (while supplies last). You may purchase or bring items to be signed; however, we may restrict the type or number of items to be signed as necessary.

Some signings require a wristband for entry, as noted on the schedule. Drawings for wristbands for these events will begin at show opening the day before and day of each signing. Come to the Dark Horse booth early for the best chance to join these events.

Lines may also be closed for some signings due to crowding or time restrictions.

We have two signing stages: one featuring the art of Mike Mignola’s Hellboy; the other, the art of Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan’s The Strain. The location of each signing is indicated by the following abbreviations:

HB = Hellboy Signing Stage ST = The Strain Signing Stage

All events are subject to change. Some restrictions apply. Please see Dark Horse Comics staff if you have questions.

For a list of our SDCC 2014 exclusives click here! And to see all of Dark Horse’s SDCC 2014 announcements head here!

THURSDAY, JULY 24

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. HB THE TRUE LIVES OF THE FABULOUS KILLJOYS: Becky Cloonan

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. HB ROBOCOP VS. THE TERMINATOR: Walter Simonson

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. ST MASS EFFECT: Mike Gamble, Fabrice Condominas, Noel Lukasewich, Tony Parker

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. HB PICTURES THAT TICK 2: Dave McKean

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. ST BUZZKILL & THE GHOST FLEET: Donny Cates

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. HB DRAGON GIRL AND MONKEY KING: Katsuya Terada

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. ST THE WORLD OF THE WITCHER: Rafal Jaki, Damien Monnier

2:00 p.m.–2:50 p.m. ST CREEPY & EERIE: Dan Braun, Uncle Creepy, Cousin Eerie

2:30 p.m.–3:20 p.m. HB THE STRAIN: Guillermo del Toro, Mike Huddleston, E. M. Gist (WRISTBAND REQUIRED)

3:00 p.m.–3:50 p.m. ST DRAGON AGE: Patrick Weekes, Nick Thornborrow, Ben Gelinas

3:30 p.m.–4:20 p.m. HB THE STAR WARS: Jonathan Rinzler

4:00 p.m.–4:50 p.m. ST THE GUNS OF SHADOW VALLEY: James Andrew Clark

4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. HB CRIMINAL MACABRE & BREATH OF BONES: Steve Niles

5:00 p.m.–5:50 p.m. ST THE FIFTH BEATLE: Vivek J. Tiwary, Andrew C. Robinson

5:30 p.m.–6:20 p.m. HB CONAN RED SONJA: Jim Zub

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. ST CONCRETE PARK: Tony Puryear, Erika Alexander

FRIDAY, JULY 25

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. HB USAGI YOJIMBO 30TH ANNIVERSARY: Stan Sakai

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. ST GROO VS. CONAN: Mark Evanier, Sergio Aragonés

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. HB ELFQUEST: Richard Pini, Wendy Pini

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. ST THE BEST OF COMIX BOOK: Denis Kitchen, Trina Robbins

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. HB THE GOON: Eric Powell

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. ST PARIAH: Aron Warner, Brett Weldele

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. HB SERENITY, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER & ANGEL & FAITH: Georges Jeanty, Christos Gage, Nicholas Brendon (WRISTBAND REQUIRED)

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. ST BLACKSAD: Juanjo Guarnido

2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m. HB HELLBOY 20TH ANNIVERSARY: Mike Mignola

2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m. ST THE WITCHER: Paul Tobin, Rafal Jaki

3:30 p.m.–4:20 p.m. HB RESURRECTIONISTS, ACTION PHILOSOPHERS, THE COMPLETE SILENCERS,

CONAN THE AVENGER & PROJECT BLACK SKY: Fred Van Lente

3:30 p.m.–4:20 p.m. ST BANDETTE: Paul Tobin, Colleen Coover

4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. HB BLACK HAMMER: Jeff Lemire

4:30 p.m.–5:20 p.m. ST THE MASSIVE: Garry Brown

5:30 p.m.–6:20 p.m. HB THE LAST OF US, THE ART OF NAUGHTY DOG & A SECOND CHANCE AT SARAH: Neil Druckmann

5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. ST STAR WARS: Randy Stradley, Doug Wheatley, Carlos D’Anda, Gabe Eltaeb, Dave Wilkins, Tim Siedell, Michael Heisler

6:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m. HB MASS EFFECT: Mike Gamble, Fabrice Condominas, Noel Lukasewich

SATURDAY, JULY 26

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. HB DREAM THIEF: Jai Nitz, Greg Smallwood, THE BLACK BEETLE: Francesco Francavilla

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. ST DRAGON AGE: Patrick Weekes, Nick Thornborrow, Ben Gelinas

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. HB THE SHAOLIN COWBOY: Geof Darrow

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. ST COLDER: Paul Tobin, Juan Ferreyra

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. HB STAR WARS: Adam Hughes, Matt Kindt, Dan Parsons, Gabe Eltaeb, Wes Dzioba, Michael Heisler, Ariel Olivetti

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. ST ELFQUEST: Richard Pini, Wendy Pini

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. HB MIND MGMT: Matt Kindt, Sharlene Kindt

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. ST: DARK HORSE SUPERHEROES: Christopher Sebela, Dan Parsons (Ghost);

Tim Seeley (The Occultist); Fred Van Lente (Brain Boy, Project Black Sky);

Michael Broussard (Project Black Sky); Joshua Williamson (Captain Midnight)

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. HB AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER & THE LEGEND OF KORRA: Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko, Gene Luen Yang, Gurihiru, Jessie Flower (WRISTBAND REQUIRED. In addition to distribution by drawing on Friday and Saturday at show opening, there will be some wristbands given as prizes during the Avatar: The Last Airbender—Legend and Legacy panel on Saturday, July 26, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. in Room 24ABC.)

2:00 p.m.–2:50 p.m. ST SUNDOWNERS: Tim Seeley

3:00 p.m.–3:50 p.m. ST DRAGON GIRL AND MONKEY KING: Katsuya Terada

4:00 p.m.–4:50 p.m. ST MASS EFFECT: Mike Gamble, Fabrice Condominas, Noel Lukasewich

4:15 p.m.–5:15 p.m. HB SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR: Frank Miller, Jessica Alba, Josh Brolin, Rosario Dawson, Robert Rodriguez (WRISTBAND REQUIRED. One poster per wristband will be provided. No other items allowed. No photos. Other restrictions may apply.)

5:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m. ST GRENDEL VS. THE SHADOW: Matt Wagner

5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. HB PROMETHEUS, ALIENS, PREDATOR & ALIENS VS. PREDATOR: Paul Tobin, Juan Ferreyra, Chris Roberson, Joshua Williamson, Ariel Olivetti, E. M. Gist, Christopher Sebela

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. ST THE FIFTH BEATLE: Vivek J. Tiwary, Andrew C. Robinson

SUNDAY, JULY 27

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. HB 47 RONIN & THE ATOMIC LEGION: Stan Sakai, Mike Richardson

10:00 a.m.–10:50 a.m. ST CONCRETE PARK: Tony Puryear, Erika Alexander

11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. HB STAR WARS: LEGACY, DEEP GRAVITY: Gabriel Hardman, Corinna Bechko

11:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m. ST PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: Paul Tobin

11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. HB SERENITY, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER & ANGEL & FAITH: Joss Whedon (WRISTBAND REQUIRED.)

12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m. ST EMILY AND THE STRANGERS: Rob Reger, Mariah Huehner, Cat Farris

1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m. ST BUZZKILL & THE GHOST FLEET: Donny Cates

1:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m. HB FIGHT CLUB 2: Chuck Palahniuk, Cameron Stewart, David Mack (WRISTBAND REQUIRED. One print per wristband will be provided. No other items

allowed. Other restrictions may apply.)

2:00 p.m.–2:50 p.m. ST MASS EFFECT: Mike Gamble, Fabrice Condominas, Noel Lukasewich

3:00 p.m.–3:50 p.m. ST THE STRAIN: Mike Huddleston

3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. HB FURIOUS: Bryan J. L. Glass

4:00 p.m.–4:50 p.m. ST AXE COP: Ethan Nicolle

PANELS

Please join us at the panels below, brought to you by Dark Horse Comics and friends! Please visit http://www.comic-con.org/cci/programming-schedule for more panels featuring Dark Horse creators!

Thursday, July 24, 2014

10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

The Witcher

Room 6A

A franchise spanning literature, comics, film and television, board games, and widely popular video games, The Witcher has touched millions with its engaging characters and exciting adventures. A diverse panel of experts discuss the many aspects of this renowned universe. Be the first to see new Dark Horse publications, view the first-ever live consumer demo of the upcoming The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt video game, and get a chance to meet the team behind Wild Hunt. Panelists include actors Doug Cockle (Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher franchise), Dark Horse Comics authorPaul Tobin (The Witcher: House of Glass), Nick McWhorter, CD Projekt RED’s game developers Damien Monnierand Lukasz Wnek (The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt), and Rafal Jaki. Moderated by Spike TV’s Geoff Keighley.

1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.

Drawing on Your Nightmares: Modern Horror in Comics

Room 23ABC

Hot on the heels of the premiere of the Dark Horse comic turned television series The Strain, you are invited to explore the darker corners of comics. Horror has been one of the cornerstones of the Dark Horse publishing line for years, and 2014 will be no exception! Join panelists for an hour of all that is guaranteed to thrill and chill you, with resident horror junkies—editor in chief Scott Allie and PR director Jeremy Atkins—along with Eric Powell (The Goon), Mike Huddleston (The Strain), the first US appearance of Colder artist Juan Ferreyra, and more for sneak peeks, announcements, and other surprises along the way!

4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Breaking into Comics and Staying In

Room 30CDE

With the shifting landscape of comics today, this is your invaluable guide to breaking into the industry. Comics Experience founder Andy Schmidt (Marvel, IDW) is joined by writers Joshua Williamson (Ghosted, Nailbiter) andJoshua Hale Fialkov (The Ultimates, The Bunker), Dark Horse editor in chief Scott Allie (Hellboy), and IDW Publishing editor in chief Chris Ryall (Zombies vs. Robots) for what promises to be the best panel on breaking in ever!

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

A Universe of Terror Drawn to One Panel: Aliens, Predator, Prometheus, and Beyond

Room 9

Nearly thirty years ago, Dark Horse rewrote the rules of licensed comics with the release of Aliens, continuing the story lines of Ridley Scott’s iconic film franchise. Predator and the iconic crossover Aliens vs. Predator followed, with each series a hit. Now, the publisher partners with Scott again, to bring sci-fi epic Prometheus to comics. With just under two months away from the launch of the ambitious and highly anticipated crossover Fire and Stone, Dark Horse editor in chief Scott Allie, writers Chris Roberson (Aliens), Joshua Williamson (Predator), Christopher Sebela (Aliens vs. Predator), and the Prometheus team of Paul Tobin and Juan Ferreyra reveal just what’s in store for this grand universe!

Friday, July 25, 2014

12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m.

Spotlight on Mike Mignola

Room 24ABC

Comic-Con special guest Mike Mignola celebrates the twentieth anniversary of his iconic creation Hellboy, star of comics, movies, and animation. Ask Mike about the Mignolaverse in this casual Q&A.4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

The Art of Video Games

Room 7AB

A lot has changed since Dark Horse first released Mass Effect: Redemption #1 back in 2010. For the first time, video game franchises found a legitimacy in comics that had been practically unheard of. With a line of video game–related comics and deluxe art books, including the best-selling The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia, the publisher now works with some of the biggest studios and brands in the business. Join Dark Horse PR director Jeremy Atkins and editorDave Marshall, Neil Druckmann (Naughty Dog), Jeremy Vanhoozer (PopCap), Rafal Jaki (CD Projekt RED), Nick Thornborrow (Dragon Age), and writer Paul Tobin (Plants vs. Zombies, The Witcher) for news and announcements on all your favorite video game tie-ins!

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Comic Book Entrepreneurs: The Business of Comics

Room 9

A rare behind-the-scenes look as leading pop culture entrepreneurs share the secrets of building successful pop culture businesses! J. K. Parkin from Comic Book Resources and Robot 6 moderates an inspirational talk with comiXology co-founder and CEO David Steinberger, Harvey Award–nominated cartoonist Noelle Stevenson (Nimona, Lumberjanes), Dark Horse president and founder Mike Richardson, and Valiant CEO and chief creative officer Dinesh Shamdasani. It’s an inside look at the business side of pop culture no future comics entrepreneur can miss!

Saturday, July 26, 2014

10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

Avatar: The Last Airbender—Legend and Legacy

Room 24ABC

For over five years, the Avatar Legacy Fan Panel has proudly organized this gathering. Moderator Avatar_Mom, Kevin Coppa (Puppetbenders), Elizabeth Furr (fan artist/Amira Ink!), Gene Luen Yang (writer/cartoonist), Angela Song Mueller (character designer), Josh Hamilton (writer), and Jessie Flower (voice actor for Toph) share stories and answer questions. Cosplayers, practice your stance for the cosplay contest! Cosplay prizes include titles from Dark Horse Comics.

1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.

The Whedonverse

Room 24ABC

Dark Horse’s continuations of Joss Whedon’s cult favorites (Serenity, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel & Faith) remain some of the most-talked-about comics in the industry. Dark Horse is giving you an exclusive chance to hear all there is to tell about the current series of both Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Serenity from the series’ top talent, with Dark Horse editor in chief Scott Allie, Buffy Season 10 writer Christos Gage and cowriter and actor Nicholas Brendon, Serenity artist Georges Jeanty, and TV and comics writer Jane Espenson.

2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.

Charting a Course: Developing the Next Mass Effect

Room 25ABC

Mass Effect developers from the Edmonton and Montreal studios discuss what it’s like to expand on a well-established and beloved video game franchise. Panelists Carl Boulay (lead animator), Fabrice Condominas (producer), Mike Gamble (producer), Noel Lukasewich (senior artist), and Jessica Merizan (community manager) share their experiences in shaping the next Mass Effect game with new possibilities while staying true to the critically acclaimed series. Moderated by Nerdist.com.

2:50 p.m.–3:50 p.m.

Frank Miller’s Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

Hall H

Dimension Films, in association with Aldamisa Entertainment, present exclusive footage from the highly anticipated sequel Frank Miller’s Sin City: A Dame to Kill For from acclaimed codirectors Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller. Fans will get to experience the Sin City universe and take part in a special discussion with Rodriguez, Miller, and members of the cast.

3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

30 Years of Usagi Yojimbo!

Room 28DE

Comic-Con special guest Stan Sakai, creator of Usagi Yojimbo, is interviewed by Dark Horse editor Diana Schutzabout the upcoming Senso miniseries, The Sakai Project, and the return of the regular Usagi series after a two-year hiatus.

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.

Creepy & Eerie: 21st Century Horror

Room 24ABC

A ghoulish panel of horror freaks discuss the impact and influence of the classic Warren horror titles Creepy and Eerie on modern horror creators in film, TV, and of course, comics. Some special guests will add to your discomfort as Dark Horse announces plans for the fiftieth anniversary of Creepy. Moderated by Gemstone’s J. C. Vaughn (Overstreet Price Guide) and consulting editor and writer Dan Braun (Creepy). Panelists include sculptor Justin Mabry (Trick or Treat Studios), Chris Zephro (Trick or Treat Studios), and New Comic Company’s Josh Braun (Eerie). Throw in a couple of surprise Creepy artists and writers, and there’ll be quite a stew for you. Plus: awesome Creepy swag!

Sunday, July 27, 2014

10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

The Fifth Beatle: The Beatles, the Big Screen, and Beyond

Room 24ABC

One of the hottest graphic novels of 2013, The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story is now one of the most highly anticipated films, having secured the approval of Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono, and Olivia Harrison, along with unprecedented access to the entire Beatles music catalog. Fifth Beatle writer and producer Vivek J. Tiwary(Green Day’s American Idiot) introduces a series of very special guests for a discussion of The Fifth Beatle’s development and breaking news. Panel moderated by Patrick Reed (Depth of Field Magazine).

10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

The Emily the Strange Panel

Room 32AB

Join Emily the Strange creator Rob Reger and his cast of Strangers for their annual panel experience and get the insider scoop on the all-ages Dark Horse comic book series Emily and the Strangers, including sneak peeks at new artwork and story lines from upcoming issues. Hear some snippets of new tracks from Emily and the Strangers and see behind-the-scenes footage of the making of the “Calling All Guitars” animated music video. As always, audience participation will be encouraged and perhaps enforced with plenty of rewards for being strange . . . Oh yeah, and some Q&A with updates on the feature film development. Be there or get lost!

12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.

Dark Horse Builds Characters: Tomorrow’s Comics Today

Room 24ABC

Nearly thirty years ago, Dark Horse arrived with an agenda different from that of any other publisher in comics. The young company was founded on the belief that comics creators should have the option to retain the rights to their own work, and it continues to be a highly fertile breeding ground for new characters, concepts, and more! Now, the publisher is poised to make headlines again with some of the biggest news about new original work since Frank Miller brought Sin City to the pages of Dark Horse Presents! Join panelists for an exclusive look at upcoming and unannounced creator-owned work from some of the biggest names in and outside the industry! This will be the comics panel everyone will be talking about at this year’s show!

1:45 p.m.–3:45 p.m.

The Strain

Hall H

Get a sneak peek at the third episode of FX’s brand-new series, The Strain. In episode 3, “Gone Smooth,” Eph and Nora fight to save Captain Redfern’s life before coming face to face with the horrifying effects of the virus. A spike in rat attacks signals Fet that something inexplicable is happening deep below the city. Released from jail, Setrakian begins his own merciless plan to stop the spread of the disease. Written by Chuck Hogan; directed by David Semel. After the screening, join series creators Guillermo del Toro (Pacific Rim) and Chuck Hogan and show runner Carlton Cuse(Lost), along with the cast members Corey Stoll, David Bradley, Mía Maestro, Sean Astin, Kevin Durand,Jonathan Hyde, Richard Sammel, Miguel Gomez, Ben Hyland, and Jack Kesy.

Tags: #ATLA, #comicmarket, 47 Ronin, A Dame to Kill For, Adam Hughes, Amira Ink, Andrew C. Robinson, Angel, Angel & Faith, Angela Song Mueller, Ariel Olivetti, Avatar_Mom, Ben Gelinas, Bryan Konietzko, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Carlos D'Anda, Chris Roberson, Christopher Sebela, Christos Gage, Comic-Con, Cousin Eerie, Dan Braun, Dan Parsons, Dark Horse, Dave Wilkins, David Steinberger, Denis Kitchen, Dinesh Shamdasani, Doug Wheatley, E. M. Gist, Elizabeth Furr, Eric Powell, Fabrice Condominas, Francesco Francavilla, Frank Miller, Gabe Eltaeb, Gene Luen Yang, Georges Jeanty, Guillermo del Toro, Gurihiru, Hellboy, Husbands, Jane Espenson, Jeremy Atkins, Jessica Alba, Jessie Flower, Josh Brolin, Josh Hamilton, Joshua Williamson, Joss Whedon, Juan Ferreyra, Katsuya Terada, Kevin Coppa, Legend of Korra, Mark Evanier, Matt Kindt, Michael Dante DiMartino, Michael Heisler, Mike Gamble, Mike Huddleston, Mike Mignola, Mike Richardson, Nicholas Brendon, Nick Thornborrow, Noel Lukasewich, Noelle Stevenson, Patrick Weekes, Paul Tobin, Randy Stradley, Richard Pini, Robert Rodriguez, Rosario Dawson, Scott Allie, SDCC, Sean Astin, Serenity, Sergio Aragones, Sharlene Kindt, Sin City, Stan Sakai, Star Wars, The Goon, The Strain, Tim Seeley, Tim Siedell, Trina Robbins, Uncle Creepy, Usagi Yojimbo, Vivek J.Tiwary, Walter Simonson, Wendy Pini, Wes Dzioba

CA – Satellite Sam Signing

July 20, 2014 by Colin Solan
Filed under California, Comic Books, Signing and Appearance Profiles

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Howard Chaykin appears at Barnes & Noble to sign Satellite Sam on Saturday August 16, 2014 at 1:00 PM!

Barnes & Noble
Ventura Gateway, 4820 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA 93003
805-339-0990

Tags: #comicmarket, American Flagg!, Avengers, Black Kiss, Blackhawks, Hawkgirl, Howard Chaykin, Satellite Sam, Star Wars

Hallmark Reveals Plans, Exclusive Keepsake Ornaments for SDCC 2014

July 17, 2014 by Brian Pate
Filed under California, Collectibles, Comic Books, Comic-Con International, Convention News, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Top Stories

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Press Release:

Hallmark Reveals Plans, Exclusive Keepsake Ornaments for Comic-Con 2014

Booth will feature artist signings, product previews and giveaways

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (July 17, 2014) — Hallmark once again will showcase its creative products at Comic-Con International when it opens next week in San Diego.

This is the seventh year for Hallmark to exhibit at the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world. Hallmark will provide more than 130,000 attendees access to event-exclusive Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments and a pair of itty bittys® plush collectibles. Other perks include visits with a Keepsake Ornament artist and sneak peeks of Hallmark products to be released in 2015.

Comic-Con Exclusives

During the convention, held July 24-27, 2014, Hallmark will sell limited quantities of the following Keepsake Ornaments:

Wampa™ – This Keepsake Ornament created especially for event sales depicts the ferocious horned predator that attacked Luke Skywalker on the ice planet Hoth as seen in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back™. In place of actual wampa fur, the ornament is covered in velvety flocking. Sales limited to 200 pieces per day as part of a total production run of 1,800 ($35 each).

Arkham’s Avenger – Inspired by the 2011 video game Batman: Arkham City, Batman crouches on a rooftop gargoyle in this Keepsake Ornament created as an event exclusive. Sales limited to 175 pieces per day as part of a total production run of 1,575 ($35 each).

War Machine™ – As featured in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this event exclusive is a repainted variant of last year’s Iron Patriot™ Keepsake Ornament. Sales limited to 150 pieces per day as part of a total production run of 1,350 ($25 each).

Since December 2012, iconic characters of film, comics and television have appeared as sweetly and uniquely styled plush itty bittys® exclusively in Hallmark Gold Crown® stores. In celebration of this fall’s addition of Star Wars™ characters to the itty bittys line, Hallmark is offering a two-pack of itty bittys styled after a Tusken Raider™ and a Bantha™ as seen inStar Wars: A New Hope™. Sales limited to 300 pieces per day as part of a total production run of 2,700 ($20 per pair).

Each of these event exclusives also will be available to attendees at New York Comic Con, Oct. 9-12, 2014.

Activities at the Hallmark Booth

“We’re very happy to be returning to Comic-Con this year to trade stories and share memories with our passionate fans,” said Beth Dorr, associate merchandise manager for Keepsake Ornaments. “We look forward to giving sneak peeks at our new Hallmark products in a creatively designed exhibit space. We’ll also have all the fun reasons for stopping by our space that Comic-Con goers have come to expect from us.”

Visitors to Hallmark’s booth in the Lucasfilm Pavilion will walk into a stylized version of the desert planet Tatooine, where they will see familiar characters, including some in Lucasfilm-owned costumes that provide a perfect photo opportunity. There will be additional opportunities for photos with costumed members of the 501st Legion daily throughout the convention.

Visitors also can collect a series of five buttons featuring Keepsake Ornaments that will be handed out for free while quantities last. The button series features Star Wars designs with a limited quantity of one design given away each day of the event.

Visitors to Hallmark’s booth will be able to meet and receive free autographs from Keepsake Ornament Artist Jake Angell, who will sign the War Machine™ ornament he sculpted.

Inside Hallmark’s booth, visitors will be treated to up-close looks at Hallmark products including many of the new 2014 Keepsake Ornaments such as Godzilla, the flying time machine of Back to the Future Part II and Cornelius of Planet of the Apes, while getting an early preview of what’s ahead for 2015.

An official schedule of all Hallmark fan activities at Comic-Con International will be available at the Hallmark booth in the Lucasfilm Pavilion, located at Booth 2913-H in the Exhibit Hall.

More Comic-Con Fun

Comic-Con goers will be encouraged to share a fan-favorite photo or moment they want to keepsake by using the hashtag #KeepsakeIt in social media and by entering online at Hallmark.com/KeepsakeIt. Submissions to the website will be entered to win weekly prizes and a grand prize of Keepsake Ornaments, plus $3,000 toward a #KeepsakeIt Family Vacation. Learn more at Hallmark.com/KeepsakeIt.

Starting July 21, before Comic-Con International begins, follow Hallmark on Twitter (@Hallmark) to learn more how to enter to win one of two Hallmark prize packages: 1) a set of the Comic-Con exclusive Keepsake Ornaments, or 2) a pair of the Comic-Con exclusive Star Wars itty bittys plush characters. This Twitter giveaway provides fans who may not make it to San Diego a chance to win Hallmark’s Comic-Con exclusive items.

BATMAN and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.
(s14)
© & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
© MARVEL

Hallmark #KeepsakeIt Sweepstakes

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; void where prohibited. To enter, share your Keepsake moment or photo onhttp://www.hallmark.com/keepsakeit or print your name, address, phone & e-mail address on 3″ x 5″ paper & mail by 9/4/14 to: Hallmark’s #KeepsakeIt Sweepstakes Winners’ List, 2405 Grand Blvd., Suite 700, Kansas City, MO 64108 during Entry Period #1 – Entry Period #3 and via Twitter, Instagram, www.hallmark.com/keepsakeit or print your name, address, phone & e-mail address on 3″ x 5″ paper & mail by 9/4/14 to: Hallmark’s #KeepsakeIt Sweepstakes Winners’ List, 2405 Grand Blvd., Suite 700, Kansas City, MO 64108 during Entry Period #4 – Entry Period #23. Ends 11:59 p.m. CT 12/18/14. Must be 18+, legally residing in 50 US, inc. DC. For Entry limits and complete details and rules: http://www.hallmark.com/keepsakeitrules. Sponsor: Hallmark Marketing Company, LLC, 2501 McGee St, Kansas City, MO, 64108.

About Hallmark Cards, Inc.

Hallmark makes the world a more caring place by helping people express what’s in their hearts and connect in emotional ways with others. In the U.S., innovative Hallmark greeting cards and gifts are sold through the network of Hallmark Gold Crown® specialty stores, leading mass retailers and online. Worldwide, Hallmark offers products in more than 30 languages available in 100 countries. Millions of households enjoy family friendly television programming offered by cable’s top-rated Hallmark Channel and fast-growing Hallmark Movie Channel. Hallmark’s Crayola subsidiary inspires artistic creativity in children through Crayola® crayons and markers as well as other innovative art tools, crafting activities and creative toys. Privately held Hallmark is based in Kansas City, Mo., and continues to be led by members of the founding Hall family. Visit http://corporate.hallmark.com for more details.

Tags: Comic-Con, Hallmark, Keepsakeit, SDCC, Star Wars

CA – Spirits of Ash and Foam Signing

July 14, 2014 by Colin Solan
Filed under Animation, California, Comic Books, Other, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Signing and Appearance Profiles, Television

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Greg Weisman (Gargoyles, Young Justice, Spectacular Spider-Man) signs his new book at Vroman’s Bookstore on Sunday July 20, 2014 at 4:00 pm!

About Spirits of Ash and Foam:
In this sequel to Rain of the Ghosts, Rain Cacique must now unearth a whole new series of mysterious events, all while juggling the struggles of homework, babysitting duties, and new friends. Now that she is equipped with her heirloom talisman her grandfather left her, she seeks the next mystical relic that will allow her to uncover her home’s secrets and launch her and her ghost grandfather into a whole new adventure..

About the Author:
GREG WEISMAN is an American comic book and animation writer and producer, best known as the creator of Gargoyles and as the Supervising Producer of The Spectacular Spider-Man. Weisman just completed work as writer and producer on the Young Justice animated series. The television series he’s produced have been nominated for a number of Emmy Awards. Currently he is working the new Star Wars cartoon REBELS.

Vroman’s Bookstore
695 E. Colorado Blvd Pasadena, CA 91101

Tags: #comicmarket, Gargoyles, Greg Weisman, Rain of the Ghosts, Rebels, Spectacular Spider-Man, Star Wars, Vroman's Bookstore, Young Justice

Fans Gather at 12th Annual ConnectiCon This Weekend

July 10, 2014 by Colin Solan
Filed under Animation, Comic Books, Connecticut, Convention News, Gaming, Movies, Other, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Television, Video Games

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Press Release:

Fans of pop culture from across the Northeast and around the world will gather at the Connecticut Convention Center July 10th-13th, for the twelfth annual ConnectiCon in Hartford, CT. Founded in 2002, ConnectiCon is the largest massively multi-genre convention in New England.

This year’s event showcases over 7,000 hours of programming spread out over four days including; informative panels and hands-on workshops, special guest and celebrity appearances, trading card games, board games, and roleplaying games, including dozens of scheduled tournaments, console gaming and arcade machines. ConnectiCon is proud to introduce the Northeast League of Legends Tournament with over $6,000 in prizes!

ConnectiCon features main events such as, “Nerd Prom,” which is held Thursday evening at 8:30pm, tickets are available online. “ConnectiCon’s Singled Out!” Contestants, who pre-register online, will have a chance to win a date sponsored by ConnectiCon at a local participating restaurant. There’s also a ConnectiCon Masquerade Event held on Saturday, and the ConnectiCon “Cosplay Death match!” Plus many other fantastic events!

ConnectiCon will host nearly 90 special guests and celebrities including stars of stage and screen such as Noah Hathaway (The Neverending Story), Walter Jones (Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers), Alan Oppenheimer (Masters of the Universe), Janet Varney (Legend of Korra), Jennifer Hale (Mass Effect), Maurice LaMarche (Futurama) and Rob Paulsen (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and Richard Horvitz and Rikki Simons of the cartoon Invader Zim and Internet celebrity, Doug Walker, AKA That Guy With The Glasses. Joining them are voice actors Chris Cason, Danielle McRae, Ellen McLain, and Lauren Landa, comic creator Farel Dalrymple, and dozens of other talented guests.

Annual memberships to ConnectiCon are available online or at the door, and include access to all four days of the convention, as well as quarterly member appreciation days and other events year-round. It’s fun for the entire family! For more information please go to their website www.connecticon.org or Facebook page.

Tags: Alan Oppenheimer, Animaniacs, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Batman, Battlestar Galactica, Chris Cason, Clone Wars, ConnectiCon, Danielle McRae, Diedrich Bader, Ellen McLain, Farel Dalrymple, Futurama, Invader Zim, Janet Varney, Jennifer Hale, Lauren Landa, Legend of Korra, Mass Effect, Maurice LaMarche, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Noah Hathaway, Omega the Unknown, Pinky and the Brain, Pop Gun War, Power Rangers, Richard Horvitz, Rikki Simons, Rob Paulsen, Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Brave and the Bold, The Clone Wars, The Neverending Story, TMNT, Walter Jones

WA – The Jedi Doth Return Signing

July 8, 2014 by Colin Solan
Filed under Comic Books, Other, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Signing and Appearance Profiles, Washington

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Ian Doescher appears at Barnes & Noble to sign William Shakespeare’s The Jedi Doth Return on Sunday July 13, 2014 at 2:00 PM!

Barnes & Noble
Northgate Mall, 401 NE Northgate Way #1100, Seattle, WA 98125
206-417-2967

Tags: #comicmarket, Ian Doescher, Northgate Mall, Star Wars, The Jedi Doth Return

Dark Horse Unveils Their First Wave of SDCC 2014 Exclusives

July 3, 2014 by Michael Pate
Filed under California, Collectibles, Comic Books, Comic-Con International, Convention News, Top Stories

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Press Release:

DARK HORSE UNVEILS THE FIRST WAVE OF 2014 COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL EXCLUSIVE BOOKS AND PRODUCTS!

The year’s most anticipated event will host more exclusive Dark Horse merchandise than ever before!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MILWAUKIE, OR – July means the most anticipated event of the year in pop culture is just weeks away! As we rapidly approach the doors opening to the world on July 23, Dark Horse announces the first wave of 2014 SDCC exclusives, available in the expanded Exclusives Store at booth #2615!

Dark Horse has produced more items than EVER for this year’s show, as well as secured a few other extremely limited edition items from our partners!

The list can be found below, available only at the Dark Horse 2014 Exclusives Store at Comic-Con International!

Look for news on the latest items in our line of products based on HBO’s Game of Thrones™ produced exclusively for Comic Con in the coming days!

A set number of exclusives and limited editions will be portioned for each day of the show.

1. Itty Bitty Hellboy Plush: 2014 San Diego Comic-Con Exclusive

7.25″ tall plush version of the colorful cartoon treatment of Mike Mignola’s characters by Art Baltazar and Franco featuring an San Diego Comic Con International logo t-shirt.

Price: $15.00

Production Run: 500

Limit: Two per person

2. Mass Effect Alliance Cruiser: Convention Exclusive Bronze Edition

9″ long polyresin bronze finished Alliance Cruiser. Dark Horse has utilized digital assets direct from Bioware to faithfully capture all details in transforming this ship from a digital creation into our physical world.

Price: $60.00

Production Run: 350

Limit: One per person

3. Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 10 #5 San Diego Comic-Con International 2014 Variant Cover

When Buffy and crew try to wrest Xander from Dracula’s control, they begin a battle supreme with the terrifying demon that Dracula has become . . .

Christos Gage, Nicholas Brendan (writers) * Rebekah Isaacs (artist) * Dan Jackson (colorist) * Andy Park (cover artist)

Price: $5.00

Print Run: 1,000

Limit: Five per person

4. Star Wars: Darth Maul—Son of Dathomir #1 San Diego Comic-Con International Variant Cover

Star Wars: Darth Maul—Son of Dathomir is based on unaired episodes of The Clone Wars television series!

Jeremy Barlow (writer) * Juan Frigeri (penciler) * Mauro Vargas (inker), Wes Dzioba colorist), Chris Scalf (cover artist)

Price: $5.00

Print Run: 1,000

Limit: Five per person

5. Captain Midnight: Stolen Future Convention Exclusive Slipcase Edition

In the forties, Captain Midnight was an American hero, a daredevil fighter pilot, a technological genius . . . a superhero. Since he rifled out of the Bermuda Triangle and into the present day, Captain Midnight has been labeled a threat to homeland security. Can Captain Midnight survive in the modern world, with the US government on his heels and an old enemy out for revenge?

Captain Midnight Volumes 1 and 2 are featured in a deluxe convention exclusive slipcase.

Price: $20.00

Print run: 400

Limit: Five per person

6. Hellboy in Hell, Volume 1: The Descent—San Diego Comic-Con International Hardcover Edition

After saving the world in The Storm and the Fury but sacrificing himself and Great Britain, Hellboy is dead, cast into Hell, where he finds many familiar faces and a throne that awaits him. This deluxe hardcover treatment mirrors the recently released 20 Years of Hellboy hardcover, and fits beautifully next to it and the previous Library Editions.

Price: $40.00

Print Run: 1,200

Limit: Two per person

7. EVE: Source Limited Edition

EVE: Source is your comprehensive source book and visual guide to the gargantuan universe experienced in EVE Online and DUST 514. Published by Dark Horse Comics and developed in close collaboration with the EVE and DUST 514 creative teams, this beautiful 200-page, full color hardcover will immerse readers in the history and lore of EVE through stunning artwork and never-before-released material detailing the settings, stories, races, and factions of the EVE Universe.

The Limited Edition contains: A beautiful black clamshell protective box with an embossed silver logo, two lithographs by EVE artists Borkur Eiriksson and Georg Hilmarsson in a protective sleeve, an anodized aluminum commemorative and numbered plaque embedded in the protective box, a unique CCP “source” code redeemable on the EVE Account Management site (https://secure.eveonline.com/).

The limited edition is bound in matte black JVP with embossed silver logo.

Price: $90.00

Print Run: 1,400

Limit: One per person

8. Usagi Yojimbo San Diego Comic-Con International Exclusive Lithograph

An 18″ x 20″ Usagi Yojimbo lithograph signed by creator Stan Sakai to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Usagi Yojmbo.

Price: $20.00

Print Run: 300

Limit: Two per person

9. Itty Bitty Hellboy Convention Exclusive Hardcover

Witness the awesomeness that is Hellboy! The characters that sprung from Mike Mignola’s imagination, with an Aw Yeah Art Baltazar and Franco twist! This book has all the fun, adventure, and Aw Yeah-ness in one itty bitty package! That’s a true story right there. Collects Itty Bitty Hellboy #1–#5 in a hardcover edition exclusive to conventions.

Price: $20.00

Print Run: 1,000

Limit: Five per person

10. The Witcher #1 Convention Variant Cover

Legendary artist Stan Sakai has done a special cover of the tie-in series The Witcher, a canonical entry in the world of the Witcher video games, which have collectively won over 250 awards and sold more than 5.5 million copies worldwide! All proceeds from the sale of this limited edition variant will benefit Stan and Sharon Sakai.

Price: $5.00

Print Run: 1,000

Limit: Five per person

Tags: Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Captain Midnight, Comic-Con, Dark Horse, Darth Maul, EVE, Hellboy, Itty Bitty Hellboy, Mass Effect, SDCC, Star Wars, Usagi Yojimbo