Bleeding Cool noticed that just last week the company submitted two versions  of a new logo to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The design, which you can see at right, depicts a D flipping back to reveal a C below; one version includes the words “DC Comics” below, the other “DC Entertainment.”

Although the “flipping” aspect of the logo may not be obvious in its static form, it’s likely designed with animation in mind, for inclusion at the beginning of movies, television shows and video games. How that design might translate to comics remains to be seen.

Comic Book Resources has contacted DC for comment but received no response.

The publisher’s current logo debuted in May 2005 as part of an effort to emphasize the DC brand across all media. Designed by Josh Beatman of Brainchild Studios, the “swoosh” replaced the Milton Glaser-created “bullet” the company had used in one form or another since 1977.

– veteran artist Ernie Colón, lamenting to Comic Book Resources the treatment of Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld, the DC Comics fantasy property he created with writers Dan Mishkin and Gary Cohn

Toyota has teamed with Marvel for “The Incredible Drive,” a four-part stop-motion animated adventure promoting the car manufacturer’s Yaris model. Created by the crew behind “Marvel Super Heroes: What The–?!” — Ben Morse, Jesse Falcon, Alex Kropinak and others — the first short features a Yaris-driving Bruce Banner forced into therapy with Doctor Strange, who suggests all he needs for his anger-control issues is a road trip. With him.

Yes, the guy who transforms into a 7 1/2-foot-tall monster drives a subcompact car — but, hey, it’s no weirder than him rooming with the Red Hulk or seeking mental-health advice from a magic-wielding neurosurgeon (apparently Doc Samson isn’t covered by Banner’s HMO). Strange’s Monarch-esque voice is a little much, but it’s definitely worth sitting through for the Marvel Universe-themed destination billboards and the late addition to the unlikely road-trip crew.

(via Autoblog)

Avengers Assemble

Saturday at the New York Comic Con brought news for the Avengers, Superman, Legendary Comics and … Disney’s Prep & Landing? Here’s a round-up of announcements from the show today.

• With a big, blockbuster Avengers movie scheduled for next May, Marvel announced a new ongoing series, Avengers Assemble, by writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Mark Bagley. The book will launch next March and will feature most of the Avengers featured in the movie — Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Hawkeye and the Hulk. The first arc will feature the villainous group the Zodiac.

• Speaking of that big, blockbuster Avengers movie, fans were treated to new footage from it featuring Bruce Banner and the Black Widow. Tom Hiddleston spoke to CBR about his work on the film.

• Marvel also announced that writer Rick Remender and artist Gabriel Hardman will take over Secret Avengers with issue #21.1, adding new members and pitting them against a new Masters of Evil.

• At the Cup O’ Joe panel today, Marvel also announced a Disney/Marvel crossover — Prep & Landing: Mansion: Impossible. It features the elves from the Disney television special who prepare homes for the arrival of Santa Claus every Christmas eve — only this time they’re trying to break into Avengers Mansion to get it ready for Santa. Written by director Kevin Deters and drawn by story artist Joe Mateo, the story will run in the back of the Marvel Adventures books as well as Avengers #19 in November.

• Marvel CCO Joe Quesada also announced that Marvel will publish a comic based on the Showtime television show Dexter. Novelist Jeff Lindsay will bring the popular character to comics with an all-new ongoing series with new stories set in the world of the Dexter novels

• During their All Access: Superman panel, DC Comics plans to release a second Superman: Earth One graphic novel next fall, by writer J. Michael Straczynski and artist Shane Davis. They showed off the book’s cover, and Davis revealed the Parasite will appear in it.

• It was confirmed that Keith Giffen and Dan Jurgens will take over Superman from George Perez beginning with issue #7.

• DC’s CCO Geoff Johns and artist Gary Frank have been tapped for “The Curse of Shazam,” a back-up story that will appear in Justice League starting with issue #5.

• Fans were treated to the first episode of Warner Bros. upcoming Green Lantern animated series. The first scene is available to view online.

• Jeph Loeb and Simone Bianchi will bring back Sabretooth, the character they decapitated some years back.

• Harold Parrineau will voice Blade in the upcoming Blade Anime from Marvel.

• Top Cow announced that David Hine will take over as writer of The Darkness, and a second volume of his comic with Shaky Kane, Bulletproof Coffin, is in the works.

Dragon Age

• Dark Horse Comics, who already have the license for Bioware’s Mass Effect video game, will publish digital comics based on the video game series Dragon Age. The comics will feature characters from the first and second game — Isabela, Alistair and Varric. (As a huge Dragon Age fan, I can’t help but wonder, which Alistair will appear in the comics? I have three different saved games on my Playstation 3 — one where Alistair became king, one where he became a drunk and one where the new queen of Ferelden had him killed. It’s likely not the third Alistair).

• Famed creator Mike Kaluta is working on a “big, meaty graphic novel” based on the John Milton poem Paradise Lost. Legendary Comics will publish it.

• Legendary will also publish a collection of Paul Pope’s The One Trick Rip-Off, an early work first published by Dark Horse.

• Viz Media will replace its Shonen Jump magazine with a weekly digital magazine called Weekly Shonen Jump Alpha.

• Steve Jackson Game will introduce a card game based on Image’s Skullkickers.

• Lucasfilm debuted a poster for the upcoming film Red Tails, drawn by Joe Kubert.

• And finally, ABC showed a sneak preview of their hey-isn’t-that-kinda-like-Fables TV show Once Upon a Time. A fan asked about the similarities between Once Upon a Time, Fables and NBC’s Grimm. “I haven’t seen what the movies are doing and I haven’t read those scripts,” said creator Edward Kitsis. “For us, this is our interpretation of this world. Fairy tales have become a genre the way science fiction is a genre, and I am always up for watching someone in a spaceship heading somewhere on a mission, and this is our version of that.”

• Following in the footsteps of DC Comics: The New 52, most of Vertigo’s titles will be available digitally the same day as print.

• Geoff Johns announced that work is about to get under way on a Robot Chicken DC Comics special that will skewer the company’s superheroes in the same way that the show tackled Star Wars. The episode, written by Johns and MAD‘s Kevin Shinick, is set to air next summer.

• Confirming last-minute speculation, Ed Brubaker announced that he and frequent collaborator Sean Phillips (Sleeper, Criminal, Incognito) will release their next project through Image Comics. Called Fatale, the series blends noir elements with the supernatural world. “I’ve been wanting for a while to do something with a more supernatural element to it,” Brubaker told Comic Book Resources. “So Fatale mixes what we do and all the ways we’ve poked fun at the noir genre. If Incognito was us doing ‘What if Doc Savage, Dashiell Hammet and Raymond Chandler had all existed in the same universe?’ then this is a weird combo of James M. Cain and Lovecraft. It’s got a real horror element to it — the first time I’ve really tried to do anything with horror — but it’s also got this really epic story to it.”

• Dark Horse confirmed that Demo creators Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan will reunite in February for an adaptation of the Robert E. Howard Conan short story “Queen of the Black Coast.” Wood, whose upcoming Dark Horse project The Massive has been extended to an ongoing series, told Comic Book Resources that he’s signed on for 25 issues of Conan the Barbarian, “to start.”

• Vertigo announced Saucer Country, a new ongoing series from Paul Cornell (Stormwatch, Demon Knights) and Ryan Kelly (Local, New York Five) that the writer describes as “The West Wing does The X-Files.”

• Beginning in April, Return of the Dapper Men writer Jim McCann will team with Morning Glories cover artist Rodin Esquejo and colorist Sonia Oback for Mind The Gap, an ongoing series from Image Comics that combines elements of science fiction, thrillers and police procedurals. “This book is my X-Files meets Twin Peaks whodunit,” McCann told Comic Book Resources, “where everyone is suspect, and no one is innocent!”

• During its Amazing Spider-Man panel, Marvel announced a Scarlet Spider ongoing series will debut in January from writer Christopher Yost and artist Ryan Stegman.

• Ape Entertainment revealed it’s in talks with Sesame Workshop to publish comics featuring the beloved characters from Sesame Street.

• IDW Publishing will release a graphic-novel adaptation of Sergei Eisenstein’s 1938 film Alexander Nevsky, by Ben McCool and Mario Guevara.

• Expanding their partnership, Stan Lee and 1821 Comics announced they’ll launch a line of children’s comics called Stan Lee’s Kids Universe.

Never let it be said that Dash Shaw isn’t an artist who follows his bliss. The video above represents the fourth time Shaw has drawn a faithful adaptation of a segment from the kind of gross reality show Blind Date, in which more or less attractive young people are brought together to do something “fun” and either get along terribly or end the evening swapping spit or, y’know, whatever. The amusing part of doing this as a video is that you can hear the original audio the whole time, and trust me, the sound is worth the price of admission alone toward the end there. How does the date go? Let Shaw show you!

Catwoman

The New York Comic-Con is coming up Oct. 13-16, and Warner Bros. has revealed some animated plans for the show.

Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation will present “an action-packed hour of first looks” at DC Universe Animated Original Movies that Friday from 3 to 4 p.m., which will include the premiere of the animated short Catwoman, starring Eliza Dushku as the voice of title character. The 15-minute short will be included on the release of Batman: Year One, which arrives Oct. 18 on Blu-ray, DVD, for Download and On Demand.

The panel will also include the first footage to be seen from Justice League: Doom, the next entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original Movies.

Panelists will include the voice of Batman, Kevin Conroy, DCU executive producer Bruce Timm and casting/dialogue director Andrea Romano … and quite possibly welcome a few surprise guests to the stage. An autograph session with the panelists will immediately follow the panel.

From Joshua Middleton's poster for "The Last Airbender: Legend of Korra"

Following a stint last year as an art director for Warner Bros. Animation’s upcoming Green Lantern: The Animated Series, artist Joshua Middleton announced this week that he’s joined the staff of Nickelodeon’s The Last Airbender: Legend of Korra. And he does so in fine fashion, with the beautiful illustration he created for the limited-edition poster that debuted at Comic-Con International.

The eagerly awaited sequel to the hit Avatar: The Last Airbender, Legend of Korra picks up 70 years after the original series, following the current incarnation of the Avatar, a hotheaded teenage girl from the Southern Water Tribe. The 26-episode series is set to debut in mid-2012. Check out Middleton’s full poster after the break.

Ghostface Killah

Legal | Composer Jack Urbont is suing rapper Ghostface Killah of the Wu-Tang Clan and Sony Music Entertainment for illegally sampling the theme to the Iron Man animated series from the 1960s. The theme was used on two tracks from the 2000 album Supreme Clientele. Killah, who sometimes goes by the alias Tony Starks, had a song in the 2008 film and appeared in a deleted scene on the DVD. [Rolling Stone]

Digital | In Maps & Legends co-creator Michael Jasper shares a breakdown by percentage of where their sales are coming from, noting almost half of their sales are through Barnes & Noble’s Nookbook Store. [Michael Jasper, via The Beat]

Digital | The Globe and Mail looks at how electronic publishing is changing the way authors tell stories: “The Next Day is a graphic novel about people who have attempted suicide. Once it is posted online in September, you’ll be able to click your way through it according to your own preferences about how it should unfold.” [The Globe and Mail]

Image Comics

Publishing | Multiversity Comics talks to Image Comics publisher Eric Stephenson about some of the company’s recent successes, the diversity of the company’s lineup, and same-day digital releases: “I’m on record as saying the print market is different from the digital market, and I personally think it’s unfair to penalize people who want to buy digital comics in the vain hope that it will drive more people to comic book shops. The people who want print comics are going to buy print comics. There is another audience that has no interest in hoarding boxes of comics, that is more satisfied having this stuff on their iPad or their laptop or their phone. I don’t see how that audience is any less valuable than the print audience. From a creative perspective, a publishing perspective — we’re in the business of telling stories. If people want to read those stories in a format other than print, we can either stick our heads in the sand and pretend it’s a fad, or we can acknowledge that this is the 21st century and adapt to the demands of the changing times.” [Multiversity Comics]

Publishing | The Al-Masry Al-Youm looks at Egypt’s growing publishing industry, highlighting Division Books, a graphic novel publisher founded earlier this year by Marwan Imam and Mohamed Reda. Imam says that Egypt is “hungry” for a comic book market. Division’s first graphic novel comes out this month. [Al-Masry Al-Youm]

His Face All Red

Creators | Robot 6 contributor Sean T. Collins talks to His Face All Red creator Emily Carroll. [The Comics Journal]

Conventions | In addition to being available online, tickets for October’s New York Comic Con are now available from several New York and surrounding area comics retailers. [Medium at Large]

Conventions | The Monitor profiles Omnicon, a convention held in McAllen, Texas. [The Monitor]

Events | Andrew Farago, curator of the Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco, will speak on the significance of graphic novel adaptations of classic literature at the Steinbeck Festival on Aug. 4-7 in Salinas and Monterey, Calif. [The Sacramento Bee]

Reviews | Colin Smith looks at the roles of women and minorities in the latest issues of Fear Itself and Flashpoint. [Too Busy Thinking About My Comics]

Comic-Con International

Comic-Con International has unveiled the programming schedule for Sunday, July 24 — the final day of the convention — that’s heavy on presentations and workshops for kids and teens, with plenty still for older attendees.

There are spotlights on Jordi Bernet, Ashley Wood, Mark Tatulli and Joelle Jones, the annual tribute to Jack Kirby, a look back at 25 years of Watchmen, and a breakdown of what it takes to create a great cover. Want more? There’s a Q&A with Axe Cop creators Ethan and Malachai Nicholle, a showcase for the women of Marvel, a collaboration how-to, and the last of the panels devoted to DC’s September relaunch.

To help you with your Comic-Con planning, we’ve highlighted the comics-specific programming below. To see the full Friday schedule, complete with television, film and video game content, visit the convention website.

SUNDAY, JULY 24

10:00-11:00 Archaia Entertainment and The Jim Henson Company: The Early Works of Jim Henson Screening with Special Tale of Sand Discussion— Jim Henson was a creative genius responsible for some of the most iconic properties today, including The Muppets, Fraggle Rock, and The Dark Crystal. But what was he like leading up to that success? Archaia and The Jim Henson Company explore his early works and creative process, complete with archival, rarely seen footage, brought to you by Henson archivist Karen Falk. Then, get an advance look at Tale of Sand, the new original graphic novel coming in September, based on a never-before-seen screenplay written by Jim Henson and his longtime collaborator, Jerry Juhl. Falk, Archaia editor-in-chief Stephen Christy, and A Tale of Sand artist Ramón Pérez will discuss the behind-the-scenes production of the book and debut some new images. Moderated by Archaia CEO P. J. Bickett. Room 4

10:00-11:15 The Annual Jack Kirby Tribute Panel— As always, we gather to remember the man some still hail as The King of the Comics, Jack Kirby. If you don’t know who that is, you have no business being at this convention. Moderator Mark Evanier discusses the life and times of Kirby with Walt Simonson (Thor), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Richard Kyle (Graphic Story World), and Mike Royer (inker of lots of Kirby comics). Room 5AB

10:00-11:00 Axe Cop— Meet Comic-Con special guests Ethan and Malachai Nicolle, the 30- and 7-year-old brothers behind the award-winning web comic and print series Axe Cop (Dark Horse Comics). With moderator Kevin Murphy (Mystery Science Theater 3000, Riff Trax) and other guests Ethan and Malachai discuss Axe Cop and give you an exclusive look at what’s coming up in the world of the head-chopping policeman. At age 7, Malachi is Comic-Con’s youngest special guest ever! Room 6DE

10:00-11:00 Young Justice Screening and Q&A— Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Miss Martian, Red Arrow, and Superboy — these aren’t your average sidekicks and this isn’t your average cartoon. In a short amount of time, and with just a small number of episodes, fans have embraced this new action-adventure series as Warner Bros. Animation has brought some of their favorite DC heroes to life. Following a special screening, producers Brandon Vietti (Batman: Under the Red Hood) and Greg Weisman (Gargoyles) and members of the creative team will answer your burning questions on what the future holds for “the team.” Young Justice Season 1, Part 1 is available on DVD now. Room 7AB

10:00-11:00 Teen Comics Workshop— Teens! Join teen comics creators Vera Brosgol (Anya’s Ghost), Thien Pham (Level Up), Dave Roman (Astronaut Academy), and Gene Luen Yang (American Born Chinese) for the interactive comics workshop adventure of your lives. Learn exciting new things about storytelling, character development, drawing, and much more. Room 30CDE

10:00-11:00 Comic Book Fairs: Using Comics as a Literacy Tool— A diverse group of panelists from across the comic book, education, and nonprofit industries offer a frank and educational discussion celebrating and appreciating the role of Archie comics in academia. Archie Comics co-CEO and former teacher Nancy Silberkleit leads a panel that includes Kimberly Earle (CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving), Michael Bitz (ComicBookProject.org), and David Rojas (Archie Education) to discuss how schools can adopt comics in the classroom, how to create comic book-oriented lesson plans, student-created comic book projects, and what Archie Education has planned. Room 32AB

10:30-11:30 Wild Cards— Top writers in the science fiction field discuss the positives and the pitfalls of re-creating the comic experience in a prose form. How can words ever compete with pictures? Or does the depth of characterization make up for the lack of visuals? Panelists include George R. R. Martin (Song of Ice and Fire), Melinda M. Snodgrass (Edge series, Wild Cards), Paul Cornell (Doctor Who and DC Comics), Carrie Vaughn (Kitty novels), Michael Cassutt (Heaven’s Shadow), David Anthony Durham (Acacia Series), Caroline Spector (Wild Cards), Daniel Abraham (Leviathan Wakes, Dragon’s Path), and Kevin Andrew Murphy (Supernatural Suburbia). Room 6BCF

11:00-12:00 Wearing Two Capes: Storyboard Artists Who Moonlight as Comic Artists— Kevin Altieri (Batman: The Animated Series), Gary Hartle (Ultimate Avengers), Dell Barras (G.I. Joe: Renegades), Jeff Wamester (Ultimate Spider-Man), Justin Copeland (Ultimate Spiderman), and moderator Frank Forte (The Super Hero Squad Show) discuss dynamic storytelling, filmmaking, and creating characters in the mediums of animation and comics. Yes, you can do both! This panel includes an audio/visual display of comic art trailers and storyboard animatic demos, plus interviews and a Q&A session. Room 4

11:00-12:00 Watchmen: 25 Years Later— The first issue of Watchmen appeared in comic book stores in June 1986, and its shockwaves are still reverberating. The landmark series’ artist Dave Gibbons, colorist John Higgins, and editor Len Wein discuss its legacy with moderator Douglas Wolk. Room 7AB

11:00-12:30 Secret Origin of Good Readers— Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University) and Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics) help educators and librarians navigate the wonderful world of comic books with an overview of the medium, highlighting specific ways comics and graphic novels can be used to engage a variety of learners while promoting reading and literacy. Panelists include Paul Levitz (Legion of Superheroes), Frank Beddor (creator, The Looking Glass Wars), Dr. Bill McGrath (National University), and Bill Galvan (artist, Archie Comics). Room 23ABC

11:00-12:00 IDW: Special Projects and Imprints— IDW doesn’t make just your favorite monthly comics. Senior editor Scott Dunbier, designer Dean Mullaney (creative director of the Library of American Comics), comics historian Craig Yoe, and head of IDW’s prose line Jeff Conner present a revealing look at some of the upcoming additions to IDW’s superb archival and prose lines. Room 24ABC

11:00-12:30 Comic-Con How-To: Creative Character Design with Bryan Tillman— Bryan Tillman, author of Focal Press’s Creative Character Design, talks about ways to bridge the gap between the technique of drawing characters and the theory of good character design.Topics include archetypes, color, design, silhouettes, story, and much more. Bryan is the academic director for Media Arts and Animation, Game Art and Design, Visual Game Programming and Motion Graphics and Visual Effects and a faculty member of the Animation Department within the Art Institute of Washington, DC. He is also the CEO and owner of Kaiser Studio Productions, which is a production studio for comics, animation, toys, and games. Room 28DE

11:00-12:00 Archie Comics: Building a Video Game Comic Legacy with Sonic and Mega Man— For years, Archie has crafted a detailed, epic and exciting comic universe around Sonic the Hedgehog and the many wonderful characters that populate the universe of the SEGA character. Now Archie has added a Mega Man series to the fold — featuring the compelling detailed universe of the bestselling video game series. Join writer Ian Flynn (Sonic, the Hedgehog, Sonic Universe, Mega Man), editor Paul Kaminski (Sonic, Mega Man), Archie president Mike Pellerito, and executive director of publicity and marketing Alex Segura for a discussion that promises to be full of big Sonic and Mega Man news, teasers, artwork, and more. Room 32AB

11:15-12:15 Marvel: Women of Marvel— Forget Spider-Woman & Emma Frost, meet the real Ms. Marvels of the comic world! Join women from every discipline in the creative process at Marvel to hear what it’s like working as a woman in comics today. These ladies are busting through the four-color ceiling! Guests include host Grace Randolph (The Weekly Watcher), writer Marjorie Liu (X-23), artist Christina Strain (Runaways), and more, brought to you by Oxygen. Room 5AB

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Jordi Bernet— Superstar Spanish cartoonist Jordi Bernet is a Comic-Con special guest for the very first time. Known best for his work in his native country on such titles as Torpedo 1936 and Clara de Noche, Bernet has also made his mark in American comics on Jonah Hex, The Spirit, and Batman: Black and White. Fellow cartoonist Sergio Aragonés interviews this international treasure about his prolific career in comics. Room 8

12:00-1:00 The Philippine Invasion— Back in the 1970s, comics were “invaded” by an incredible influx of talented artists from the Philippines. Some of them became mainstays in American comics. This year, Comic-Con has invited some of those artists to appear at the event as special guests, including Ernie Chan, Tony DeZuniga, and Alex Niño, along with current-generation Filipino artist Gerry Alanguilan. Writer and editor Mark Waid talks with this quartet who have made an indelible mark in American comics. Room 4

12:00-1:00 DC Focus: Jeff Lemire— Jeff Lemire first made an impression on the world of comics with his award-winning Essex County graphic novel trilogy. He soon made the move to DC Comics with the graphic novel The Nobody and comics including Superboy and the dystopian epic Sweet Tooth. Lemire recently wrote the miniseries Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown and will make a splash in September with the new, continuing series Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E. and Animal Man. Join Jeff for a special chat about his work for DC Comics and Vertigo. Room 7AB

12:00-1:00 Jews ‘n’ Comics: A Past & Present History— From Ben Grimm to The Golem and more, comic book historian and illustrator Arlen Schumer (The Silver Age of Comic Book Art) surveys the specifically Jewish creation of the American superhero and its antecedents in older, ancient myths, as well as the significant contributions Jews have made to the evolution of comic book art in the 20th and 21st centuries — including his own superhero creation, Captain Israel! Room 24ABC

12:15-1:45 CBLDF Live Art Battle!— Come watch two teams of art titans battle to the bidder end at the CBLDF’s Comic-Con Live Art Battle! Team captains Chris Burnham (Batman Confidential) and Ale Garza (Superman/Batman) will bring their fiercest ink warriors to face off by making art you can bid on to support the First Amendment legal work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund! Room 5AB

12:30-1:30 Marvel: Fear Itself— The biggest comic book event of the year has everyone talking — but just what comes after it concludes? You’ll get the exclusive news here, with the big announcements that’ll change the future of the Marvel Universe — and send your favorite characters in exciting new directions. Be the first to know the biggest news of the weekend as the creators behind the comic blockbuster event answer your questions and leave you cheering! Join Greg Pak (Alpha Flight), Cullen Bunn (The Deep), Nick Spencer (Iron Man 2.0), editor-in-chief Axel Alonso, and others for the news you can’t miss. Room 6DE

12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Ashley Wood— Ted Adams, IDW’s CEO/publisher engages in a lively discussion with Comic-Con special guest Ashley Wood. Learn about Wood’s long comic book career and his toy company, 3A Toys, as well as his artistic plans for the future, in this one-on-one interview and Q&A session. Room 8

1:00-2:00 The New Wave of Children’s Books— Artists/creators Attaboy (You Might Be a Monster & Other Stories…), James Kochalka (Johnny Boo), Ragnar (Got Your Nose), Rhode Montijo (Cloud Boy), and Brianne Drouhard (Billy the Unicorn) discuss the exciting new wave of innovative books for kids (and the rest of us!). Moderated by Bob Self (Baby Tattoo Books). Room 24ABC

1:00-2:00 PW: What Comes After the Graphic Novel?— With Borders’s bankruptcy shaking the publishing world and the health of brick-and-mortar stores everywhere being watched anxiously, the world of comics publishing is entering a new world of tablets, websites and, yes, good old comics shops. Join PW Comics World co-editor Heidi MacDonald in a discussion with publishing professionals as they take a look at what’s next on the horizon. Participants include Judy Hansen, Hansen Literary Agency; Portlyn Freeman, co-owner, Brave New World Comics; Jeff Webber, eBooks director, IDW; and Terry Nantier, NBM publisher. Room 25ABC

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Mark Tatulli— Take a look behind the scenes of newspaper comic strip cartooning as Comic-Con special guest Mark Tatulli tells the story of his rise in the comics, from childhood cartoons through Heart of the City and on to his most successful creation, the darkly funny Lio. Rejected Lio strips and funny reader feedback, plus Q&A session. Room 8

1:30-2:30 Editing Comics the BOOM! Studios Way— BOOM! Studios editor-in-chief Matt Gagnon talks to three of fandom’s favorite BOOM! writers — Chris Roberson (Starborn, iZombie, Superman), Daryl Gregory (Planet of the Apes, Dracula Company of Monsters), and Michael Alan Nelson (28 Days Later, Dingo, Hexed) — about the ins and outs of editing comics at BOOM! Don’t miss this in-depth look into the editing secrets of one of the comic book industry’s leading independent publishers as they discuss editing dos and don’ts at today’s hottest comic book company. Room 23ABC

1:45-2:45 Designing the New 52— What does it take to remake a universe? There are new stories, new characters, and especially new designs! DC’s Co-Publisher Jim Lee, VP – Art and Design Mark Chiarello, exclusive artist Cully Hamner, and others discuss their visual approach to reshaping the DC Universe! Room 6DE

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Joëlle Jones— Since her debut illustrating 2 Reasons Why I Love Her in 2006, Comic-Con special guest Joëlle Jones has been one of comics’ most talked-about new artists. Get in on the conversation as Jones sits down with journalist Erik Henriksen and her long-time collaborator Jamie S. Rich to discuss her various projects from Oni Press, Vertigo, and Dark Horse and what it’s like to draw Dr. Horrible, Madman, and Spider-Man. Room 4

2:00-3:00 Max Brooks: Zombie Survival 101— Max Brooks, screenwriter and author of bestselling books The Zombie Survival Guide, World War Z, and The Zombie Survival Guide: Recorded Attacks, is the world’s leading authority on the defense against a ghoulish uprising! Renowned for his campus and convention lectures nationwide, Brooks comes to Comic-Con to share his insight into the rotting minds of the undead, reveal how the Zombie Survival Guide came into existence, and field questions from zombie-phobic fans. You dare not miss this lecture — your very life may depend on it! Room 7AB

2:00-3:00 Cover Story: The Art of the Cover— Comic-Con’s annual Cover Story panel explores what it takes to make a great cover. This year, moderator Mark Evanier talks to special guests Ernie Chan (known for his incredible run of DC covers in the 1970s), Jo Chen (Buffy the Vampire Slayer covers for Dark Horse), Alan Davis (numerous covers for Marvel), Dave Gibbons (his groundbreaking Watchmen covers integrated the cover with the story inside), Jeff Smith (Bone, RASL), and Ashley Wood (Popbot, World War Robot, Zombies vs. Robots) about their cover work and what makes a great cover. Room 25ABC

2:00-3:00 Drawing The Simpsons— They’re TV’s first family of fun! Between their comics, television, and movie appearances, The Simpsons remain one of the most popular cartoons around the world. Emmy Award-winning artist Phil Ortiz (The Simpsons comic books) shows you how to draw Lisa and Bart in this fun hands-on drawing workshop for Simpsons fans of all ages! Room 30CDE

2:30-3:30 Christian Comics: The Calling of the Artist— What unique challenges do artists face in developing work for both mainstream and religious audiences? How can “Christian media” avoid becoming just a pale imitation of their secular counterparts? Panelists Sergio Cariello (The Action Bible), Eric Jansen (Missions Press), Steve Blount (Kingstone Media), Robert Luedke (Eye Witness), John Shore (I’m OK – You’re Not), Mike Shields (Blue Blazes), and moderator Buzz Dixon (Hits & Misses) discuss the challenges and rewards of following the call of personal faith and the creative arts. Special giveaways for those in attendance. Brought to you by the Christian Comic Arts Society. Room 23ABC

3:00-4:00 DC Comics – The New 52— DC Comics explodes in September with 52 new number one issues and one panel is not enough to cover it! With a “DC Comics – The New 52″ panel each day, there’s sure to be something for everyone! Join DC Comics Group Editors Matt Idelson and Mike Marts for an up-close look at this unprecedented wave of new series, from the first-ever re-launches of Action Comics and Batman titles to the latest thrills from comics’ cutting-edge! Join Matt, Mike and some of the industry’s top writers and artists as we make history together. Room 6DE

3:00-4:00 Disney/Marvel Team-Up— Everyone wondered what would happen when the Mouse House got together with the House of Ideas, and the answer is an amazing assortment of Marvelous kids books! Editors from Disney Publishing Worldwide and Marvel unveil their new line of Marvel Origin Storybooks for kids, featuring modern retellings of some of Marvel’s most iconic characters, such as Thor, Captain America, Spider-Man, and the X-Men. From artwork to film adaptations to beginner books, find out all the upcoming excitement from the combined might of Disney and Marvel. With Ruwan Jayatilleke, senior vice president, Marvel; Rich Thomas, global editorial director, Disney Publishing Worldwide; and Michael Siglain, senior editor, Disney Publishing Worldwide. Room 24ABC

3:00-4:00 Comic-Con How-To: Drawing with Jim Lee— Artist and co-publisher of DC Comics Jim Lee draws for an hour. See how he does it on the big screen!  Room 28DE

3:30-4:30 How to Start a Collaborative Comic (Print or Web)— The High Tech High Graphic Novel Project of Chula Vista, CA (Dinoindino.com) hosts a panel about the steps and challenges of starting your own small (15-25 people) to large (30-60 people) group collaborative comic (for print or web). How can high school students anywhere do what these students do? How can anyone do what they do? All will be discussed and more. Room 26AB

4:00-5:00 The Superhero Battlefield— What drives superheroes to keep fighting the good fight without getting burned out, disillusioned, or transforming into villains themselves? Trauma psychologist Dr. Andrea Letamendi (UCLA) explores the minds of your favorite comic book heroes and villains, linking them with the very real minds of actual trauma survivors. Alongside Dr. Letamendi are fellow psychologists Dr. Robin Rosenberg (The Psychology of Superheroes) and Dr. Travis Langley (Batman in his Belfry), as well as guest panelists including writer Len Wein (Swamp Thing). Room 4

4:00-5:00 Art Masters: Drawing DC— Superstar artists share their secrets of drawing the DC Universe, with a special projector designed so you can see their every master stroke. Check out this unique presentation that will surely draw oohs and ahhs from the gathered masses! Room 30CDE

4:00-5:00 Full-Time Creative Work on a Part-Time Schedule— Learn the secret to using part-time collaboration to achieve full-time results! No matter which industry (comics, illustration, movies, design, animation, costuming/cosplay), breaking into today’s media is a full-time job, even if you have only part-time hours to accomplish it. Topher Davila (art director, GeekdomWear.com), Aleister Gilgrim (Disney Publishing Digital Media), Mario Martinez (co-creator, TomatoTV.net), Kevin Flessing (TomatoTV.net), Ron Coleman (molecular geneticist and writer), Jonelle Cobb (creative director, GeekdomWear.com), Jody Patterson (main contributor, RatBoxProductions.net), and Tara Strand (co-founder, Gotham Public Works) talk about how they successfully juggle time between the creative and business sides and discuss the process, pitfalls, and potential of part-time collaboration from their experiences in illustration, writing, design, animation, and costuming and cosplay. Whether you’re a hobbyist or looking to go pro, if you struggle with deadlines, need help finding collaborators, or simply want to know how to get your foot in the door, this panel is not to be missed! Room 32AB

Comic-Con International

Just like clockwork, Comic-Con International has released the schedule for the second day of the convention, one marked by tributes to Gene Colan and Frank Frazetta, spotlights on David Finch, Tony DeZuniga, Gary Alanguilan, Jeff Smith, Chester Brown, Dave Stewart, Ed Bennes and Dave Gibbons, the Aspen Comics, Oni Press and Radical Publishing panels, and a look at the state of the Hellboy Universe.

There’s also plenty of comics-to-screen action, with a viewing of the rejected Locke & Key television pilot (followed by a Q&A), The Walking Dead panel, presentations on The Amazing Spider-Man, The Adventures of Tintin, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, Green Lantern: The Animated Series and Marvel Anime, and the premiere of the animated Batman: Year One.

Add to that a look at Marvel’s X-Men, DC panels devoted to the September relaunch, Superman and the Justice League, a discussion with Roman Dirge (conducted by Comic Book Resources’ Jonah Weiland), and — well, you’ll have to check out the rest for yourself. And it’s all topped off by the annual Eisner Awards ceremony.

To help you with your Comic-Con planning, we’ve highlighted the comics-specific programming below. To see the full Friday schedule, complete with television, film and video game content, visit the convention website.

FRIDAY, JULY 22

10:00-11:00 DC: Talent Search— DC’s editorial art director, Mark Chiarello, presents an informative orientation session to explain how DC’s Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of DC Comics, Vertigo, and MAD magazine. If you want to learn what DC Comics looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, this is the panel for you. If you want to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4

10:00-11:30 The Black Panel— This year’s panel will be a bitter yet sweet departure from the past. Help celebrate the life and work of Dwayne McDuffie, with Peter David (writer of stuff), Keith Knight (The K Chronicles, The Knight Life), Reggie Hudlin (House Party, Boomerang, Black Panther), and the reunion of the original Milestone partners, Derrick Dingle, Denys Cowan, and Michael Davis, who have not done a panel together in over an decade. It will be a joyous celebration with a surprise guest or two and some big announcements. Room 5AB

10:00-11:00 Spotlight on David Finch— One of the most popular artists working in comics today, Comic-Con special guest David Finch is currently writing and drawing Batman: The Dark Knight. In this spotlight panel, Finch discusses his career in comics and what’s coming up for both him and the Dark Knight. Room 6DE

10:00-11:00 Spotlight on Tony DeZuniga— Comic-Con special guest Tony DeZuniga is one of the comics medium’s most prolific artists. His memorable work includes numerous books for Marvel and DC, and he’s especially known for his work on both Conan (for Marvel) and Jonah Hex for DC, defining the scarred western character from almost the very beginning. DeZuniga will talk about his long career in comics and what he’s up to today with fellow artist and Comic-Con special guest Gerry Alanguilan. Room 9

10:00-11:00 DC: Mad about MAD— Often imitated but never duplicated, MAD is more than just the country’s bestselling humor magazine — it’s also the inspiration for the outrageous animated series from Warner Bros. Animation. Featuring short animated parodies, crazy commercials, pretend promos and classic gags inspired by the iconic magazine, MAD is currently one of the highest-rated series on Cartoon Network — and it’s back at Comic-Con to share more laughs and explore the world of MAD. Join MAD magazine editor John Ficarra, art director Sam Viviano and Spy vs. Spy artist Peter Kuper, along with MAD series producers Kevin Shinick and Mark Marek, for a sizzle reel of laughs from season one, a sneak peek at season two, and a wise-cracking Q&A that’s bound to be, well, MAD. MAD airs Mondays at 8:30 ET/PT on Cartoon Network. Room 25ABC

10:30-11:30 Locke & Key FOX Pilot Screening— The most talked-about pilot not on the fall schedule was the FOX production of Locke & Key. This screening of the entire pilot will show you just what a void there will be on your TVs this fall. Watch the special filmed adaptation of Welcome to Lovecraft, and see the Eisner-nominated comic brought to life. Can’t get in to see it this morning? Don’t worry…there’s a rescreening tonight at 9:15 in Room 6DE! Room 8

11:00-12:00 Mike Mignola: Worlds at War— The world is falling to chaos in B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth, Hellboy’s facing his demons in a big way in Hellboy: The Fury, and monsters are overrunning Europe in the upcoming Baltimore: The Curse Bells. Join creator Mike Mignola, editor Scott Allie, and new B.P.R.D. artist Tyler Crook for exclusive insights on what has been and will continue to be an epic year in the Mignolaverse and beyond. Room 4

11:00-12:00 Spotlight on Gerry Alanguilan— Comic-Con special guest Gerry Alanguilan is a 16-year veteran of inking comics for Marvel and DC (Superman: Birthright, Ultimate Avengers) and is the creator of the Eisner Award-nominated graphic novel Elmer. Gerry is known on the Internet as the “Hey, Baby Smile” guy (as seen on Tosh.0, The Russell Howard Show, and Graham Norton Show). Here’s your chance to ask him anything! He will not lie. (Hopefully.) Room 9

11:00-12:00 Roman Dirge— Cartoonist Roman Dirge will be discussing his new art book Taxidermied and his ongoing Lenore comic series with Titan. Join Roman and moderator Jonah Weiland (Comic Book Resources) for this one-on-one interview and Q&A session. Room 23ABC

11:00-12:00 Radical Publishing— Radical will announce its imprint deal with Sam Worthington’s production company, Full Clip, and introduce the writers and artists working on those projects. Panelists include Sam Worthington (Avatar), John Schwarz and Michael Schwarz (Full Clip Productions), Rick Remender (The Last Days of American Crime), Joshua Dysart (Unknown Soldier), Leonardo Manco (Hellblazer), and Radical Studios president Barry Levine. Radical will also give the inside scoop on Sam Worthington’s attachment to Rick Remender’s The Last Days of American Crime. Room 24ABC

11:00-12:00 Manga: Manga!? Hear it Straight from Japan!— The leaders of Japan’s manga industry present an in-depth discussion of where the international manga industry is and where it is headed in the near future. Also, catch a sneak peak of jmanga.com, Japan’s 39-publisher-strong Digital Comic Association’s new manga portal website. Panelists include Sam Yoshiba (Kodansha), Takashi Watanabe (Shueisha), Toshitaka Tanaka (Shogakukan), Kouji Shimano (Futabasha), Naobumi Ashi (Kadokawa), Motoi Suzuki (Shueisha), and Sasaki Hisashi (editor-in-chief of Japan’s Weekly Shonen Jump, the world’s top-selling manga magazine). Room 25ABC

11:00-12:00 Page One— The opening page of a comic sets up everything that comes after it, for good or ill. Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), Jen Van Meter (Hopeless Savages), Greg Rucka (Stumptown), and moderator Douglas Wolk discuss great first pages of comics and the way they can instantly pull their audience in and establish the tone and themes of a story. Room 32AB

11:15-12:15 DC Comics: The New 52— he DC Universe explodes in September with 52 new number-one issues, and one panel is not enough to cover it! With a “DC Comics: The New 52″ panel each day, there’s sure to be something for everyone! Bob Harras, DC’s editor-in-chief, and DCU executive editor Eddie Berganza offer an up-close look at this unprecedented wave of new series, from the first-ever relaunches of Action Comics and Batman titles to the latest thrills from comics’ cutting edge! Room 6DE

11:15-12:15 AMC’s The Walking Dead— Stars Andrew Lincoln (Love Actually), Jon Bernthal (The Pacific), Sarah Wayne Callies (Prison Break), Laurie Holden (The Mist), Norman Reedus (The Boondock Saints), Steven Yeun (The Big Bang Theory), Jeffrey DeMunn (The Green Mile); series creator/writer/director/executive producer Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption); executive producer Gale Anne Hurd (The Terminator); executive producer Robert Kirkman (creator/writer of The Walking Dead comic book series); and makeup artist and consulting producer Greg Nicotero discuss the success of season one of AMC’s series The Walking Dead and reveal what to look forward to in season two, which will air on AMC thisfFall. Join the panelists for a one-on-one Q&A session and an official sneak preview of season two. Ballroom 20

11:30-12:30 Spotlight on Patrick McDonnell— Award-winning Mutts cartoonist and New York Times bestselling author Patrick McDonnell is joined in conversation with author Glen David Gold (Carter Beats the Devil). Patrick will discuss comic strips, cats and dogs, George Herriman, Charles Schulz, Jack Kirby, Jane Goodall, pen points, Shelter Stories, punk rock, frogs jumping in ponds, The Power of Now, the future, and nothing. Q&A will follow. Room 5AB

11:30-12:30 Locke & Key Panel— Make your plans to watch the Locke & Key TV pilot at 10:30, then join Eisner-nominated creators Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez, along with Locke & Key TV pilot writer Josh Friedman, for a frank discussion of the show, the comic, and what’s coming up in Clockworks, the second-to-last story arc in the acclaimed series (or is it?). Room 8

12:00-1:00 The Official Aspen Comics Panel 2011— Aspen Comics creators Frank Mastromauro, Peter Steigerwald, Vince Hernandez, Mark Roslan, Joe Benitez, JT Krul, Alex Konat, Jason Fabok, Beth Sotelo, and some surprise guests announce and preview new Aspen releases for 2012, including a special look at their new series in association with director McG’s production company, Haunted City, as well as answer questions about Aspen’s growing library of titles. All attendees will receive a free gift courtesy of Aspen Comics! Room 4

12:00-1:00 Tribute to Gene Colan— The comic book industry lost a giant last month. Gene Colan was a true artist and a truer gentleman. Fans and co-workers gather to remember him, including Marv Wolfman, Roy Thomas, Dean Mullaney, Andrew Farago, Glen David Gold, and moderator Mark Evanier. Come and add your voice and memories to a discussion of one of the greats. Room 24ABC

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Dave Gibbons— Comic-Con special guest Dave Gibbons is the artist behind one of the most popular graphic novels and comics stories ever, Watchmen. Here’s the A to Z of Dave Gibbons…everything you ever wanted to know about Dave’s life in comics in an interactive format where the audience calls the shots. Room 25ABC

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Session 3: Jaime Hernandez— No one can touch Jaime Hernandez‘s art as the gold standard for visual characterization in contemporary comics. Through a complex use of body language, facial acting, and the playful mix of exaggerated and realistic visuals, Hernandez’s characters come to life in a way that is instantly recognizable and wholly unique. Witness his singular approach to visual storytelling at this CBLDF Master Session. The pieces created during this event will be available for bidding in Saturday’s CBLDF Benefit Auction. Room 30CDE

12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Jeff Smith— Jeff Smith and his wife/business partner Vijaya Iyer discuss the 20th anniversary of Bone, feature films, the future of comics, and much more. Moderated by Tom Spurgeon (comicsreporter.com) Room 5AB

12:30-1:30 Marvel: Year of the X-Men— The bonds of brotherhood have been broken between Cyclops and Wolverine, as their feud reaches its boiling point, tearing the X-Men apart in X-Men: Schism. But after the dust settles, what’s next for the X-Men and their allies? Enter X-Men Regenesis, where all your questions are answered. Writers Marjorie Liu (X-23), Rick Remender (Uncanny X-Force), and Chris Yost (X-Men: First to Last) and editor-in-chief Axel Alonso lay out what’s going on with the X-Men for this all-new, all-deadly panel! Room 6DE

1:00-2:00 Free 3D Glasses for You at the 3D Comics Panel!— This presentation in actual 3D will take you through the exciting history of million-selling 3D comics. It showcases their invention in 1953 by Joe Kubert and Norm Maurer and the artists who followed their lead: Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, Bob Powell, Otto Messmer, and more. Projected in 3D, you’ll see rare comics and unpublished art by these geniuses and the 3D comics that have inspired today’s 3D movies. Hosted by Eisner Award winner Craig Yoe, author of the Amazing 3D Comics (IDW/Yoe Books), premiering at Comic-Con. Room 4

1:00-2:00 Dark Horse Comics: 20 Years of Star Wars— Share favorite moments in Star Wars comics with resident Jedi Randy Stradley and a host of Star Wars guests from comics and beyond, including Mick Harrison (Dark Times — in his first public appearance!), Scott Allie and Stephane Roux (Jedi — The Dark Side), John Jackson Miller (Knight Errant), Dave Filoni and the Fillbach Brothers (Star Wars: The Clone Wars), Timothy Zahn (Choices of One), and Shelly Shapiro (editor-at-large, Del Rey). There will be exclusive news and images, giveaways, and even a chance to win a custom Stormtrooper helmet with art by Chris Scalf (Blood Ties)! Room 7AB

1:00-2:00 Publishing Queer: Producing LGBT Comics and Graphic Novels— Queer-themed comics, once solely the domain of the gay press, are breaking into the mainstream. What are the challenges and rewards of producing this work and getting it in front of an audience hungry for the material? How can it be marketed and publicized, both to an LGBT readership and beyond? Should queer cartoonists self-publish or look to established publishers? Moderator Justin Hall (Glamazonia, Prism Comics Talent Chair) leads a spirited conversation with a diverse panel of publishing pros: Brian Andersen (self-publisher, So Super Duper), Charles “Zan” Christensen (publisher, Northwest Press), Jacquelene Cohen (publicist, Fantagraphics), Shannon O’Leary (comics editor and journalist), Bob Schreck (editor-in-chief, Legendary Pictures), and Tony Valenzuela (executive director, Lambda Literary Foundation). Room 9

1:00-2:00 There and Play Again: Video Games to Comics— We all know that comic books have been fertile ground from which video game developers can harvest great characters and games. These days the tech has caught up with the art and we’re seeing that road run both ways. This panel includes video game and comic book industry luminaries intimately familiar with bringing a comics sensibility to games and transporting virtual, interactive worlds to the printed page. Join them to discuss what it takes to be successful in multiple dimensions. Room 23ABC

1:00-2:30 The Golden Age of the Fanzine— Once upon a time…before the Internet and publishing on demand, a hearty group of comics lovers produced their own publications, called “fanzines,” and comics fandom was born. Spinning off Comic-Con’s 50th anniversary celebration of the birth of comics fandom, these pioneers of the fanzine will talk about those heady days and what it was like to publish their own zines. Panelists include Jean Bails (the widow of Dr. Jerry Bails, creator of Alter-Ego), Richard Kyle (Graphic Story World), Paul Levitz (The Comic Reader), Dick and Pat Lupoff (Xero), Roy Thomas (Alter Ego), Maggie Thompson (Comic Art), and some surprise fanzine publisher-type guests. Moderated by Bill Schelly, a fanzine editor himself and the guy who wrote the book on fandom (The Golden Age of Comic Fandom). For more on the Golden Age of Fanzines, check this year’s Comic-Con Souvenir Book for a special feature! Room 24ABC

1:00-2:00 Oni Press Panelmonium 2011— It’s a new comic extravaganza with trendsetting indie comic powerhouse Oni Press, featuring Comic-Con debut titles One Soul, Petrograd. and Spontaneous! Join in the Q&A with Ray Fawkes (Possessions) and get the first word on his game-changing graphic novel One Soul. Plus an in-depth chat with Phil Gelatt (Labor Days) and Tyler Crook (B.P.R.D) about their new historical graphic novel chronicling the infamous assassination of Rasputin, Petrograd! Joe Harris (Ghost Projekt) and Brett Weldele (Surrogates) talk about their new miniseries Spontaneous, while Artist Brian Hurtt and writer Cullen Bunn join in the fray to discuss their hit ongoing series The Sixth Gun. And, as always, Oni Press’s Panelmonium brings announcements, reveals, special guests, free comics, and the only interactive panel in town! Guaranteed by Oni Press’s totally biased employees to be “the most fun you’ll ever have at a panel”! Room 32AB

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Ed Benes— Fan-favorite artist and Comic-Con special guest Ed Benes (JLA, Birds of Prey) commemorates his first U.S. convention appearance with a look back on almost 20 years in the comics industry, from his start with Continuity Comics in 1993 to his eye-popping work on titles like Birds of Prey and Justice League of America. He’s now looking ahead to his new series (Red Lanterns — due in September). Ed will discuss his career path, the inception of his own studio, and all the challenges along the way. Discussion will include fan Q&A. A rare opportunity to pick the brain of one of today’s finest talents! Room 5AB

1:30-2:30 Spotlight on Chester Brown— Louis Riel, Yummy Fur, and Ed The Happy Clown cartoonist — and Comic-Con special guest — Chester Brown has been one of the most influential and acclaimed alternative cartoonists for the past 20 years. His 2011 graphic novel Paying for It: A Comic-Strip Memoir About Being a John is easily the most talked about book of the year and was praised in the New York Times. Join him on his panel as he performs his acclaimed slideshow, reading from his North American book tour for Paying for It. The slideshow will be followed by a Q&A. Ask anything you wanted to know about the most controversial book of the year. Room 8

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Dave Stewart— Eisner Award-winning color artist and Comic-Con special guest Dave Stewart is one of the busiest colorists in comics. Known for his work on such titles as DC: The New Frontier, Hellboy, BPRD, Baltimore, Lobster Johnson, Conan, Batwoman, and The Goon, Dave will talk about his work and how he brings comics characters to colorful life. Room 4

2:00-3:00 Green Lantern: The Animated Series Video Presentation and Q&A— Warner Bros. Animation brings the Green Lantern to television in a new CG-animated action series for Cartoon Network from world-renowned producer, artist, and animator Bruce Timm (Batman: The Animated Series). Based on the DC Comics superhero, Green Lantern: The Animated Series centers on Hal Jordan and his partner Kilowog, who find themselves alone on the edge of the Guardian Frontier fighting off an invasion by the deadly Red Lantern Corps. Timm headlines a panel — moderated by Warner Bros. Animation’s Sam Register (Teen Titans) — that also features producer Giancarlo Volpe (Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and producer/story editor Jim Krieg (Ben 10: Alien Swarm). In addition to the Q&A, fans in attendance will be treated to footage prepared exclusively for Comic-Con. Don’t miss out, or you’ll be waiting ’til 2012! Room 6BCF

2:00-3:00 VIZ Media Panel— VIZ Media’s 25th anniversary celebrations continue with a special panel packed with exciting news and prizes for our fans. VIZ Media staff will provide the latest updates on new acquisitions and upcoming releases, as well as give the scoop on groundbreaking projects they’ve yet to announce. Don’t miss a chance to win prizes such as $25 iTunes gift cards, special prizes from VIZ’s partners, and more! Room 9

2:00-3:00 Nappy Hour— The infamous cooking timer returns as Keith Knight (The Knight Life, the K Chronicles, (th)ink, MAD) brings together another lightning-fast roundtable discussion of all things nerdist, with a stellar lineup of panelists including writer/producer/illustrator Michael Davis (Milestone Media, The Black Panel), writer/performer Pam Noles (And We Shall March, Death 40 Feet Tall), and writer/director/critic David Walker (Bad Azz Mofo)! Room 23ABC

2:00-3:00 Dark Horse Presents— As Dark Horse celebrates its 25th year of publishing, the company is proud to reintroduce the title that started it all: the game-changing anthology Dark Horse Presents. Known for featuring the industry’s top talent and launching some of the most successful titles in comics history, Dark Horse Presents was, is, and will continue to be a highly fertile breeding ground for new characters, concepts, and more. Find out what makes this book so important to the comics medium, with Dark Horse publisher Mike Richardson as well as a cast of top talent past and present, including Eric Powell (The Goon), Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), Sanford Greene (Deadpool), and more! Panel attendees will receive a Dave Gibbons minicomic exclusive to Comic-Con. Room 25ABC

2:00-3:00 Frank Frazetta Tribute Panel— Frazetta associate J. David Spurlock follows Comic-Con’s crowd-pleasing panel from last year honoring the late, great master of fantastic art by hosting a new all-star group of guests to pay tribute to the legendary artist of Conan, Death Dealer, Vampirella, and more. Expect surprises, announcements, and a remembrance of Frazetta contemporary Jeffrey Catherine Jones. Room 32AB

2:30-3:30 Spotlight on Alan Davis— Artist/writer/storyteller. Co-creator of Excalibur. Creator of the ClanDestine. Also worked on Captain Britain, Marvelman, DR and Quinch, Harry 20, Batman and the Outsiders, Detective Comics, New Mutants, X-Men, Batman: Full Circle, Fantastic Four, JLA the Nail, The Avengers, Superboy’s Legion, and Killraven. Most recently contributed to X-Men Dark Reign, Young Avengers Children’s Crusade, and Avengers Prime…Comic-Con special guest Alan Davis‘s dynamic art and storytelling style has been a hallmark of comics for more than two decades. Any questions?  Room 5AB

2:30-3:30 Spotlight on Seymour Chwast— Comic-Con special guest Seymour Chwast, a member of the Art Directors Hall of Fame, screens some of his award-winning design and illustration work and discusses his graphic novels Dante’s Divine Comedy and the upcoming Canterbury Tales and Homer’s Odyssey. Noted designer and comics enthusiast Chip Kidd talks with Chwast. Room 8

2:30-3:30 That ’70s Panel— It was a decade of change in comics — a new generation taking over. What made it all happen? That’s what moderator Mark Evanier will ask artists Walt Simonson (Manhunter), Joe Staton (E-Man), Mike Royer (New Gods), and writer/editors Marv Wolfman (Tomb of Dracula) and Louise Simonson (Warren Publications) about that Bronze Era. Room 24ABC

3:00-4:00 DC: Superman— How does The Man of Tomorrow fit into the new DC Universe that rises in September? Find out as group editor Matt Idelson joins new Action Comics writer Grant Morrison (All Star Superman, Batman Incorporated) and author of the bestselling Superman: Earth One graphic novel J. Michael Straczynski (Superman, Wonder Woman) to take fans new and old up, up, and away to give them a sneak peak at what’s in store for Superman. Room 6DE

3:00-4:00 Shonen Jump Panel— Have you ever dreamed of becoming a manga creator? This panel gives you an opportunity to learn the secrets to being a professional artist and a writer. Weekly Shonen Jump editor-in-chief Hisashi Sasaki will give you straightforward tips and advice on how to improve your manga. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the editor of Japan’s #1 manga magazine! Plus, a chat with Hiroshi Matsuyama, the president of CyberConnnect2, about an upcoming Naruto Shippuden video game. Room 9

3:00-4:00 Image Comics Show— The folks from Image Comics present a slew of exclusive announcements about upcoming projects, updates on ongoing projects, and a Q&A session with some of the best writers working in comics. Find out about what Image is up to before anyone else does, get cool giveaways, and ask questions of your favorite creators! Panelists include David Baxter (Marksmen), John Layman (Chew), Scott Snyder (Severed), Nick Spencer (Morning Glories), Ben McCool (Pigs), and Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash). Room 25ABC

3:30-4:30 Spotlight on Eric Drooker— Painter, graphic novelist, and Comic-Con special guest Eric Drooker talks about his multitrack career in fine arts, graphic novels, and illustration. The award-winning artist’s latest work is his illustrated version of Howl! by poet Allen Ginsberg. Room 8

3:30-4:30 50 Years of Alter Ego— Comic-Con special guest Roy Thomas (editor, Alter Ego; writer, Conan the Barbarian, All-Star Squadron, Avengers), discusses the half-century (1961-2011) history and legend of Alter Ego, from a dittoed fanzine sent to 150 scattered fans to a globally distributed magazine of comics history and interviews, with Bill Schelly (author of The Golden Age of Comic Fandom), Jean Bails (widow of Jerry Bails, founder of AE), John Morrow (co-publisher of AE), and P. C. Hamerlinck (FCA/Fawcett Collectors of America). Room 24ABC

3:30-4:30 Graphic Novels for Non-Teenagers— Libraries have already established graphic novels on their Teen/Young Adult shelves, but what about books for other ages? Merideth Jenson-Benjamin (Glendale Public Library), Kearsten LaBrozzi (Glendale Public Library), Jill Patterson (La Habra Branch Library), and Hillary W. Chang (McCully-Moiliili Public Library) discuss graphic novel titles for adults and children. Room 26AB

4:00-5:30 So You Want to Be a Comic Book Retailer?— ComicsPRO’s Retailer Mentoring Forum brings you this Comic-Con tradition — an always lively and fun discussion in which your dreams of owning your own comic book specialty store take flight! You have questions? This panel of experienced retailers has answers! Hosted by Joe Field (ComicsPRO president, owner of Flying Colors Comics, Concord CA), with Portyln Polston (Brave New World, Newhall CA), Jennifer Haines (The Dragon, Guelph ON), Chris Brady (4 Color Fantasies, Rancho Cucamonga CA), and Diamond Comic Distributors outside sales manager Dave Hawksworth. Your career in comics retail starts here! Room 32AB

4:15-5:15 DC Comics: Justice League— Comics’ top talents — writer Geoff Johns and artist Jim Lee — team up for the first time ever to bring you the new Justice League, making its debut as part of the new DC Universe. Johns, Lee, and DC executive editor Eddie Berganza bring together the talents behind the new JLA titles, including writers Dan Jurgens (Justice League International), JT Krul (Green Arrow), and Eric Wallace (Mister Terrific) and artists Francis Manapul (The Flash), Brian Buccellato (The Flash), and Philip Tan (The Savage Hawkman). Room 6DE

4:30-5:30 Marvel Television Presents: Anime on G4— Marvel Television and G4 take your favorite characters — Iron Man, Wolverine, The X-Men, and Blade — to Japan to tell their stories in a whole new way, beautifully animated by the anime masters at Madhouse. Hosted by Attack of the Show‘s Blair Butler, watch a never-before-seen episode with Marvel’s head of TV Jeph Loeb and surprise guests. Plus, get a sneak peek at The X-Men‘s explosive first episode. Room 6BCF

4:30-5:30 Art of Design— It’s in every book, comic, magazine, movie, TV show, action figure package, and everything else we see each day. Good design is often invisible, but this panel of experts talk about the art of design and how it relates to comics in particular. Noted designer Chip Kidd (Shazam! The Golden Age of the World’s Mightiest Mortal) talks with Mark Chiarello (DC Comics editorial art director), Art Directors Hall of Fame member Seymour Chwast, magazine and movie designer Michael Gross (National Lampoon, Ghostbusters), artist and designer Ashley Wood (Popbot, Robots vs. Zombies), and comics historian and designer Craig Yoe (Amazing 3-D Comics, Barks Bear Book). Room 24ABC

4:30-5:30 Comics in the Library— Librarians Candice Mack (LA Public Library), Mike Pawuk (Cuyahoga County Public Library), and Eva Volin (Alameda Library) come together for a discussion of the place of comics in the library. Which titles should you buy, where do you shelve them, and how do you convince the people you work with that comics have a real place in the library? This panel will tell you all this and more. Moderated by Gina Gagliano (First Second Books). Room 26AB

5:00-6:00 Monsterverse Horror Comics Ate My Brain— There is no escaping Bela Lugosi’s Tales from the Grave horror anthology comic and upcoming graphic novel series, Flesh And Blood. Joining Monsterverse’s Kerry Gammill (Superman) and Sam F. Park (The Halfway House) are Bela Lugosi Jr., screenwriter Peter Briggs (Hellboy), Robert Tinnell (Flesh And Blood), James Farr (Xombie), Chris Moreno (World War Hulk), Mark L. Miller (Ain’t It Cool News), Dan Brereton (The Nocturnals), James Groman (The Hobbit), and Mike Dubisch (Aliens vs. Predator). Expect a slideshow and discussion of Monsterverse’s horror projects, along with a Q&A session. Room 9

5:30-6:30 Vertigo: American Vampire— The acclaimed Vertigo series American Vampire — nominated for a 2010 Eisner Award as Best New Series — introduced Skinner Sweet and a whole new type of undead, blazing a blood-drenched new trail. Join the creator of this series, as well as the new miniseries American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest, for an undead discussion with writer Scott Snyder, artist Rafael Albuquerque, and editor Mark Doyle. Room 6DE

5:30-6:30 The Art of the Comic Strip— Cartoon Art Museum’s curator Andrew Farago talks to syndicated cartoonists Mell Lazarus (Miss Peach, Momma), Patrick McDonnell (Mutts), and Mark Tatulli (Lio, Heart of the City) about their everyday work in the funny papers. Room 24ABC

5:30-6:30 CBLDF: Can Comics Send You To Jail?— What if the comics you took on a plane landed you in jail? That’s the danger facing one American, who could spend a minimum of a year in a foreign prison for doing just that. Turns out that anyone leaving or entering the country can be stopped, searched, or detained by customs agents because of comic art in print or on laptops, tablets, or cell phones — even without suspicion of criminal activity. Learn how the CBLDF is working to fight this trend and what you can do to help. Room 26AB

6:00-7:00 Hermes Press / Dark Shadows The Classic Series and the New Tim Burton Film— Lara Parker (Angelique from Dark Shadows), Kathryn Leigh Scott (Maggie Evans and Josette DuPres from Dark Shadows), Jim Pierson (consulting producer for the new Dark Shadows film), and Daniel Herman (publisher, Hermes Press) talk about the classic show, the comic book, and print tie-ins and reveals up-to-date news and some surprises about the upcoming Tim Burton film starring Johnny Depp, along with a Q&A session. Room 4

6:00-7:00 Crime Comics— Crime Comics are hotter today than at any time since the Golden Age! Join Mark Waid (Potter’s Field), Greg Rucka (Stumptown), and Gary Phillips (Angeltown) for a conversation about the exciting resurgence of this classic genre. Moderated by comics scholar Professor Ben Saunders. Room 7AB

6:00-7:00 A Strange Tale of a Panel: Indie Creators on Marvel’s Strange Tales— Excelsior! Show up early and stay late as some of comics’ best indie creators come out of the closet, revealing themselves as maniacal Marvel madmen. Witness twisted love for some of mainstream comics’ best characters! Forbidden fantasies fulfilled! Shannon “Too Much Coffee Man” Wheeler comes clean about his eco-terrorist Red Skull; Jhonen “The Homicidal Maniac” Vasquez mulls over M.O.D.O.K.; and Jeffrey “Incredible Change-bots” Brown messes with the Merry Mutants. And more major terrific talents join this core crew, spilling secret stories from Marvel’s Strange Tales. Room 9

6:00-7:00 The Hub: Batman: 45th Anniversary of the Original Series— Holy Comic-Con Panel, Batman! For the first time ever, three stars of the iconic 1960s TV series are together at Comic-Con: Adam West (Batman), Burt Ward (Robin), and Julie Newmar (Catwoman) team up to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the landmark television series now airing on The Hub TV Network. The cast will share memories from the show and introduce and discuss their favorite scenes, followed by an audience Q&A. Bang! Pow! Woosh! Room 23ABC

6:00-7:00 Girls Gone Genre— Come talk with women who write, read, game, and perform in arenas that are statistically dominated by men. What happens when traditionally “male” genres are reinvented by female writers and embraced by female fans? Sex and the City it ain’t. Meet the women who like to play with trucks and Barbies. And Wolverine action figures. And flux capacitors. Moderator Jenna Busch is joined by panelists Marti Noxon (screenwriter/producer, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Mad Men, Fright Night), Gale Anne Hurd (producer, The Walking Dead, Terminator, Aliens), and Marjorie Liu (writer, X-23, Daken: Dark Wolverine, Black Widow, Dirk & Steele novel series). Room 25ABC

6:30-7:30 Yen Press Panel— The Yen Press crew — publishing director Kurt Hassler, senior editor JuYoun Lee, and assistant editors Tania Biswas and Abby Blackman — unveil exciting new projects for 2012 and take questions from the audience. And of course, the swag. We mustn’t forget the swag! Room 8

6:30-7:30 The Best and Worst Manga of the Year— There are a whole lot of Japanese manga, Korean manhwa, and manga-inspired comics out there — but what’s worth buying and reading, and what’s not? Manga/comics bloggers/pundits Christopher Butcher (Comics212.net and The Beguiling), David Brothers (4th Letter!), Eva Volin (School Library Journal), Carlo Santos (Anime News Network), and Deb Aoki (About.com Manga) share their picks for the best new and continuing manga series for kids, teens, and grown-ups and jeer at the most annoying manga published in 2010-2011. Room 26AB

7:00-8:00 UDON and the Art of Comic and Game Design— Representatives from UDON share their trade secrets, learned from working with a host of different comics and game companies over the past 10 years. Take a tour of winning design elements through UDON’s vast portfolio of works, and get ready for special announcements of which comics, manga, artbooks, and video game properties they’ll be working on next. Featuring Jim Zubkavich (Skullkickers), Jeffrey Cruz (RandomVeus), Long Vo (Inception), and Matt Moylan (Mega Man Tribute). Room 4

7:00-8:00 Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts— Get a first look at the upcoming feature-length documentary chronicling the life and work of one of comics’ greatest writers, Warren Ellis. The film features extensive interviews with Ellis himself, as well as with key collaborators, and reveals the inextricable links between Ellis’s life, work, and philosophy. Moderated by executive producer F. J. De Santo (The Spirit), the panel features director Patrick Meaney (Grant Morrison: Talking with Gods), DP/producer Jordan Rennert (Grant Morrison: Talking with Gods), and a special guest! Room 7AB

8:30-11:30 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards— The 23rd annual Eisner Awards, the “Oscars” of the comics industry, will be given out at a gala ceremony at the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront. The master of ceremonies is Bongo Comics’ Bill Morrison. Segment hosts include writer/actors Thomas Lennon and Robert Ben Garant (Reno 911, Balls of Fury, Night at the Museum) and comedian/voice actor Phil LaMarr (Futurama, Family Guy, MadTV). Presenters include CCI special guests Anina Bennett and Paul Guinan, Walt and Louise Simonson, and Filipino cartoonist (and viral video star) Gerry Alanguilan, as well as Eisner nominees Joe Hill, Gabriel Rodriguez, and Ian Boothby, with many more to be announced. Other prestigious awards to be given out include the Russ Manning Most Promising Newcomer Award, the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award, the Bill Finger Excellence in Comic Book Writing Award, and the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award. Admission to the Eisners is free to all Comic-Con attendees — just be sure to bring your badge. Doors open for pro and VIP seating at 7:30 and for attendees at 8:15. Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

10:15-12:00 Encore Screening: Batman: Year One— Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment, and Warner Bros. Animation offer a second opportunity to see Batman: Year One, along with a chance to see a few special Comic-Con exclusive trailers for upcoming Warner Bros. films, videogames, and Blu-ray/DVD releases. Ballroom 20

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the film adaptation of Dave Stevens’ Rocketeer comics, and John Banana has created an animated tribute that’s pretty dang awesome. Check it out.

The Warner Bros. mural (photo by Jonah Weiland)

Even as DC Comics continues the rollout of the sweeping relaunch of its DC Universe titles, Warner Bros. Consumer Products is laying out a three-year calendar that sees the company “investing significant resource” in its superhero properties.

“Over the next three years there will be no escaping from the DC Universe as we deliver on our commitment to produce new content,” Bruno Schwobthaler, senior vice president of sales and business development for Warner Bros. Consumer Products Europe/Middle East/Asia, tells Licensing.biz.

The licensing agenda begins, of course, with the Green Lantern movie, which opens next week, and continues with upcoming big-screen adaptations The Dark Knight Rises and Man of Steel. But it also includes the animated Green Lantern: Emerald Knights, the Green Lantern: Rise of the Manhunters video game, the Batman Live arena tour, and projects geared toward younger audiences.

“We’re taking a franchise approach to the brand and investing in original animation targeting children,” Schwobthaler says. “This will ensure that the brand has something to offer superhero fans of all ages, lives beyond a single movie release and claims its position alongside superheroes such as Batman and Superman.”

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights, the latest foray in Warner Brothers’ collection of straight-to-DVD animated movies, is a tired collection of military cliches interspersed with some impressive fight scenes. Words like honor, sacrifice and bravery get batted around like a well-used hacky sack at a Grateful Dead concert, but to little effect, other than to remind you that there’s a big screen, live-action movie starring Ryan Reynolds that will be coming out in theaters any day now.

Hal Jordan

The film opens with a rather jarring sequence that I actually feel compelled to call attention to since it veers so far away from the tone and treatment of the rest of the film. In it, a generic Green Lantern is heading out on patrol when she is attacked and killed by a group of flying shadow monsters. That’s fine in and of itself, except that the movie takes loving care to show her being dismembered by the monsters, with her feet, then hands, midsection and then head rather gruesomely ripped from her body. The fact that there’s no blood or entrails doesn’t make this sequence any less disturbing. In fact, I’d argue it makes it even more disturbing. And I should note at this point that the film is rated PG. Way to do your job, MPAA.

But I digress. It seems the shadow monsters are working for the Lantern’s ancient enemy Krona, who apparently is planning to attack the guardians’ home planet of Oa any day now, once he can get out of his anti-matter universe or wherever it is he’s trapped. A call to arms is raised, and as the Green Lanterns gather and prepare for battle, our hero Hal Jordan starts telling the youngest and newest recruit, Arisia, some of his favorite stories about the Corps and its various members.

Green Lantern attacks

So what we have then is an anthology film, collecting various stories from the comics — some well known, some not so well known — all designed with one purpose: to hammer home again and again how utterly awesome the Green Lanterns are. At times this movie feels more like a recruitment film than a superhero cartoon.

We learn about the very first Green Lantern, Avra, and his selfless courage despite humble beginnings; about Killowog’s tough-as-nails instruction; and about Laira, who receives a decidedly unwelcome homecoming when she returns to her warrior-proud planet on a peacekeeping mission.

Avra

We are also treated to adaptations of two Alan Moore stories, both originally written way back when DC and Moore were bestest buddies. The first and best known, Mogo Doesn’t Socialize, is a rather faithful adaptation, though it adds more backstory than necessary and spoils the big revelation way too soon. I did, however, smile to realize that “Rowdy” Roddy Piper was providing the voice of Mogo’s “nemesis,” Bolphunga the Unrelenting.

The other adaptation is Moore’s “Tygers,” which is turned from a tight, nasty allegory about the dangers of second-guessing yourself into a rather muddled mess, with lots of dialogue between Abin Sur and Sinestro (who plays a supporting role here by the way; this film seeming to take place before his eventual betrayal) about destiny versus free will. I suspect that this is largely due not so much to Kevin O’Neill’s admittedly grotesque illustrations as it is to the fact that it puts Abin Sur in a rather weak light, and makes him seem susceptible to deception, which would be untoward in a film that’s devoted to selling you on the Green Lantern franchise as strongly as possible.

The Guardians are blinded by the light

Like a number of recent DCU films, the animation here varies between stylish and proficient to sloppy and cheap. The fight sequences are, as I said before, extremely well choreographed and rendered, and are easily the highlight of the film. Elsewhere, though, it’s obvious the staff relied on CGI and a few other computer tricks to keep costs down and animate the less kicky-punchy sequences, but only serve to create a “something’s not right here” tone within the mind of the viewer. I will note that, while the look of the film is consistent overall, certain segments, like the Mogo chapter, seem to harken to back to ’70s animation, particularly the Heavy Metal film or a few Ralph Bakashi projects. If intended, it’s an homage that I greatly appreciated.

Green Lanterns attack

But the film’s real flaw is not the animation or its episodic structure. It’s the utter reliance on war movie tropes that were tired back when John Wayne was doing them. Every cliche in the military handbook is trotted out here: the nervous recruit eager to prove herself; the soldier who must choose between family and doing the right thing; the tough, sadistic drill sergeant who actually has a heart of gold; the neophyte who refuses to back down against overwhelming odds; and on and on and on.

The film constantly reminds us how being a Green Lantern is all about sacrifice and bravery, to the point where I expected to see Killowog turn around at some point, remind us that they’re looking for a few good men and suggest we contact our local recruiter. The most egregious effort in this direction is easily a supplemental documentary where Dan DiDio, Geoff Johns and some people with PhDs talk about how Green Lantern shows us what it means to be truly brave and how without him (and, by implication, the rest of the DC universe) we’d all be selfish, petty bastards with no understanding of nobility or the higher good. This isn’t implicit stuff; they actually come out and say this several times, interspersed with images of George Washington, King Arthur and, yes, John F. Kennedy, just in case we didn’t get the point already.

Well, so what? What’s wrong with tales about sacrifice and bravery? Aren’t these important ideals we should strive toward and admire, even when they’re presented in a cartoon? What’s my problem, anyway?

Well first off, all of the Hal’s talk of bravery and what it means to be a Lantern strikes me as a very lazy way to inject a bit of heightened melodrama and unearned grandeur. But then there’s also the issue of spelling everything out. A few weeks ago in one of our What Are You Reading? columns, I criticized Action Comics #900 for its insistence on making sure every story mattered, either by infusing it with unneeded political and social allusions (“torn from today’s headlines” as it were) or by overstating as loudly and explicitly as possible the mythological allusions and general awesomeness of their characters. It’s the old “if we tell you this enough times maybe you’ll believe it” school of storytelling, and Green Lantern: Emerald Knights buys into it 100 percent, to its detriment.

Overstuffed with melodrama and false piety, Green Lantern: Emerald Knights is short on character development, plot and any sort of emotional investment. Some Green Lantern fans, even those who serious groove on the mythology and details of the character and universe, may be disappointed to find Hal basically taking the role of a narrator here, though perhaps they’ll enjoy seeing various supporting characters thrown in the spotlight. Others will enjoy the film as a basic action, superhero film — the fight sequences are, as I said, the best thing about the film. Whether those fans pay any heed to the militaristic platitudes presented throughout the movie doesn’t make them any less prominent, however, or any less of a problem.

Emerald Knights aplenty

Our friends in the Seattle nerd rock band Kirby Krackle have released a video for the song “Ring Capacity,” their ode to Green Lantern. The video features an animated battle between Hal Jordan and Sinestro, with a little help for GL from the band members.

The timing couldn’t be better, what with the Green Lantern film landing in theaters in a few weeks. There’s also a Facebook group for fans of the band hoping to get the song on the movie soundtrack.

The Governator

Publishing | As the fallout mounts from the revelation that former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger fathered a child more than a decade ago with a member of his household staff, plans to revive the Terminator star’s acting career have been put on hold — a move that now extends to The Governator, the comics and animation project co-developed by Stan Lee. “In light of recent events,” representatives announced last night, “A Squared Entertainment, POW, Stan Lee Comics, and Archie Comics, have chosen to not go forward with The Governator project.” However, Entertainment Weekly notes the statement was revised two hours later, putting the project “on hold.”

Unveiled in late March, on the cover of Entertainment Weekly, no less, The Governator features a semi-fictional Schwarzenegger who, after leaving the governor’s office, decides to become a superhero — complete with a secret Arnold Cave under his Brentwood home that not even his family knows about. “We’re using all the personal elements of Arnold’s life,” Lee said at the time of the announcement. “We’re using his wife [Maria Shriver]. We’re using his kids. We’re using the fact that he used to be governor.” But even before the couple’s separation became public, producers had backed off depicting Shriver and their children. [TMZ, Entertainment Weekly]

Retailing | Barnes & Noble announced Thursday that Liberty Media, which has stakes in cable, satellite television and interactive companies, has offered to buy the nation’s largest book chain for about $1.02 billion. The proposal, which comes nine months after the retailer put itself up for sale, is contingent on the participation of Barnes & Noble chairman Leonard Riggio. [The New York Times]

Amazon Kindle

Retailing | Reaching a digital milestone, Amazon has revealed it’s now selling more e-books than print editions, just four years after launching its Kindle. [TechCrunch]

Awards | The Anthony Awards, presented annually at the Bouchercon World Mystery Convention for excellence in crime fiction, have introduced a graphic novel category. The inaugural nominees are: Scalped, Vol. 6: The Gnawing, by Jason Aaron and Jock (Vertigo); Richard Stark’s Parker, Vol. 2: The Outfit, by Darwyn Cooke (IDW Publishing); Tumor, by Joshua Hale Fialkov and Noel Tuazon (Archaia); A Sickness in the Family, by Denise Mina and Antonio Fuso (Vertigo); Beasts of Burden, by Jill Thompson and Evan Dorkin (Dark Horse); and The Chill, by Jason Starr and Mick Bertilorenzi (Vertigo). The winner will be announced in September at Bouchercon in St. Louis. [via Comics Worth Reading]

Conventions | Nick Thompson previews this weekend’s Dallas Comic Con, which is expected to attract about 10,000 people. [CNN.com]

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1

Publishing | Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles co-creator Kevin Eastman will team with co-writer Tom Waltz and artist Dan Duncan on IDW Publishing’s upcoming TMNT series. [Comics Alliance]

Publishing | Jason Wood examines “the myth of the sell out announcement.” [iFanboy]

Creators | Michael Cavna profiles Cul de Sac creator Richard Thompson, soliciting quotes from reclusive cartoonist Bill Watterson and others in the process. “Where to start?… ” Watterson writes in an e-mail. “The strip has a unique and honest voice, a seemingly intuitive feel for what comics do best … a very funny intelligence … the artwork, which I just slobber over. It’s a wonderful surprise to see that this level of talent is still out there, and that a strip like this is still possible.” [The Washington Post]

Creators | Mark Andrew Smith discusses using Kickstarter to fund the second volume of The New Brighton Archeological Society, and surpassing the $6,000 goal: “This got the word out on a huge scale. We saw other high-profile creators throw their support behind us and we got a lot of mail from people telling us how much they enjoyed the book. It was an incredible feeling to see such a show of support and to have people be so vocal that they like our work, and to see them rallying to support us.” [USA Today]

Shinku #1

Creators | Ron Marz talks about Shinku, his new samurai vs. vampires series from Image Comics. [USA Today]

Creators | Matt Wagner chats about his Dynamite Entertainment series Zorro Rides Again. [ICv2.com]

Creators | Jaime Woo profiles Snow creator Benjamin Rivers, recipient of a 2011 Xeric Grant. [Torontoist]

Creators | Collaborators Zan Christensen and Mark Brill discuss their anti-bullying comic The Power Within, which was inspired by Dan Savage’s It Gets Better project. [KOMOnews.com]

Comics | Comics historian Paul Gravett selects the Top 5 political graphic novels. [CNN.com]

Comics | Mark Ginocchio, whose blog chronicles his efforts to collect every issue of The Amazing Spider-Man, explains why he’s expanding to include the newly launched FF: “… Something felt different about this new Fantastic Four series. Yes, I realize that Spider-Man is also technically a member of the Avengers, in a series being written by Brian Michael Bendis that is drawing both extreme praise and criticism. But Spidey and The Avengers don’t resonate with me. When I look at the current Avengers lineup and see characters like Spidey and Wolverine, it feels like a professional sports all-star game. Sure it’s entertaining to watch all these guys get together once a year, but you wouldn’t want to see it every night.” [Chasing Amazing]

Good news for Liberty Meadows fans: Frank Cho is working on the long-awaited issue #38, after dropping plans (for now) to make it into an animated cartoon.

Liberty Meadows was originally a newspaper strip, but Cho’s art and sense of humor kept bumping up against editorial standards, and he ended syndication in 2001; “I got tired of the censorship and the low pay,” he told CBR in a 2006 interview, adding that his weakest strips were rush jobs done to fill in for strips that editors refused to run. Cho moved to a comic book format, first self-published, then through Image, but he put Liberty Meadows on hiatus in 2004, after issue #36. Issue #37 came out in 2009.

Cho let loose on his blog about his frustrations with Sony, which acquired the rights to create a downloadable Liberty Meadows cartoon for their Sony Digital division. Here’s his account of how that went:

I wrote the original pilot episode but it was rejected for being too “risque”. So other writers were brought in to tone it down and make it more kid friendly. Once I read the rewrite, I thought it completely missed the point of Liberty Meadows. So I rewrote the rewrite, and this went back and forth couple of times until we reached a compromised script. We turned that script into an traditional 2D animated pilot episode.

Enter Sony Television division. They saw the pilot episode and liked it. Liberty Meadows get bumped up to their television division and a TV series is planned. However there is one request, Sony Television people wanted Liberty Meadows to be more “risque” with adult humor like the “Family Guy”. This is the point where I rip my hair out in frustration.

Then the recession hit and all the executives involved with the project left the company. Fortunately, Cho’s contract had an inactivity clause (something the Tokyopop creators could have benefited from) so the rights have now reverted back to him.

His plan for now is to simply go back to drawing the strip, although he doesn’t rule out another movie or TV deal “if the right offer comes along.”

Comics and animation have an interesting relationship.  Both can be broadly designated “pictures that move”, both have the same typical end goal of visual storytelling, and both rely on frame after frame of closely considered progression to push themselves forward.  Someone smart (I can’t remember who right now, apologies) once said that animation is comics at 24 frames a second, which is basically true, especially when the physical medium — film strips — that animation resides on is considered.  A stretch of animation celluloid is a comic, maybe a weird, incredibly slow-moving one, but a comic nonetheless.  A litany of great comics artists, from Alex Toth and Jack Kirby to Matt Groening and Ben Jones, have done serious time in animation.  The skill set isn’t the exact same thing by any means, but there’s plenty that translates.

Probably the artist whose works blur the boundary between comics and animation most severely is Winsor McCay.  An early virtuoso in both media, McCay came closest to a fusion of the two with the page above, which finds its animated parallel in this video.  The strange, funhouse-mirror distortions of anatomy are the same on the screen and on the page; by 1908 McCay possessed such an intimate knowledge of the character-forms he’d been drawing for years on end that he could stretch them out and squash them down perfectly, elongating and impacting their lines and contours without ever betraying the fundamental shapes behind them.  It’s interesting to note the difference between the printed and projected versions of this scene.  On screen, the focus is on the continuous transmutation from form to form to form, the flowing and ebbing of lines that never disappear, the characters’ interaction with the fixed borders of the frame.  On the page, it’s all about the remarkable difference between fixed forms, the way the lines change disappear and reappear in immensely different form between panels without changing what they depict in the slightest.

Those differences must have seemed pretty arbitrary to McCay as he drew the two works, though.  After all, to animate the scene he drew he had to see the motion happening between the frames, to understand the exactitudes of space and shape and change going on from one picture to the next in order to make the printed version, and see the broader, more general progressions of movement involved to create the animation.  1908 was early indeed in the history of both mediums; looking at this Little Nemo page and then watching the short feels like experiencing something that could have been but never was: animation considered as another, slightly different kind of comics or vice versa, the membranes separating the media so thin that they could reach out and almost touch each other.  Of course, as time went on the two forms developed vastly different languages.  But for that one brief moment!

Still, we have what we have, and given that comics and animation as they are and have been for quite some time now operate in vastly different ways, seeing what’s basically the same piece in both media allows an excellent opportunity to consider the formal differences that separate the two.  You’ll notice I haven’t used the word “sequence” to refer to McCay’s animation (had to stop myself a couple times but whatever).  That’s because it isn’t a sequence, at least not in the comics-centric way we’ve been defining the word in this column.  Though animation as seen in its raw, film-stripped form is plainly comics, it’s tough to make the same claim for it in its intended state, moving images on a screen.  Comics are still, static images that progress from one to the next to create the illusion of motion, continuity, time passing.  That sequencing of multiple images is what makes comics comics.  In animation, however, the motion is actual, perceptible within a single frame, more “real” than anything comics can achieve.  And that’s where the big difference comes from: because it can actually move, animation is pinned to one space, a constant progression inside the single box shape of the screen.  Whereas comics move from panel to panel, box to box, which means that the action can happen within any shape of any size.

The traditional mode of “animation” in comics since McCay (from Jim Steranko on down) has been frustratingly tied to the look of the medium on the screen, moving figures around in a string of same-sized boxes that seem designed only as containers, not shapes in their own right.  McCay, however, seems to have an instinctive understanding of comics’ potential for feats of animation, and as Little Nemo and friends change size and shape, so too do the panels they inhabit, stretching like taffy to maintain a consistent framing of the figures’ wild changes in height.  Look at the layout, panel contents aside: it’s animation just as much as the actual pictures are, the panel shapes and sizes artranged into a precise tracking of movement.  This is what comics can achieve that film can’t, a wildly variable space for presentation used to maximum effect.  It’s striking, shocking, the medium itself flowing and dislocating along with the characters.  McCay created comics so much like animation and animation so much like comics that it may be tough at first glance to tell the difference, but he was keenly aware of the unique potentials each carried.  Perhaps it was inevitable that they’d become such vastly different things, perhaps not; but looking at the prehistoric branch of lineage where one splits from another is a vital lesson in how both can be best used.

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights

Warner Home Video announced yesterday that the animated movie Green Lantern: Emerald Knights will arrive in stores June 7, 10 days before the release of the big Green Lantern feature film.

The movie has Hal Jordan telling a newly recruited Arisia six interlocking tales of various Green Lanterns, including Abin Sur, Kilowog, Laira and Mogo. The six stories are written by Geoff Johns, Michael Green and Marc Guggenheim, Dave Gibbons, Peter J. Tomasi, Eddie Berganza, Alan Burnett and Todd Casey.

It features the voice talent of Nathan Fillion (Firefly), Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men), musician Henry Rollins, wrestler Rowdy Roddy Piper and Wade Williams (Prison Break). The film is executive produced by Bruce Timm and directed by Lauren Montgomery, Jay Oliva and Christopher Berkeley.

The press release also noted that the film will include a preview of the next DC Comics animated movie, Batman: Year One. You can find the entire release after the jump.

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights will have its world premiere tomorrow, April 1 at 6 p.m. at WonderCon in San Francisco. A panel discussion by filmmakers and voice cast will immediately follow the screening.

*****

DISCOVER THE ORIGIN OF THE GREEN LANTERN CORPS IN ALL-NEW DC UNIVERSE ANIMATED ORIGINAL MOVIE GREEN LANTERN: EMERALD KNIGHTS COMING JUNE 7, 2011 FROM WARNER HOME VIDEO

Primetime TV Stars Nathan Fillion, Elisabeth Moss Headline Voice Cast; Available as Blu-ray Combo Pack & DVD

BURBANK, CA, (March 30, 2011) – The origins of the ultimate intergalactic police force are revealed across six interlocking tales of the legendary Green Lantern Corps in the all-new Green Lantern: Emerald Knights, the next entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original Movies. Building up to the release of the highly anticipated live action film, Green Lantern, in theaters June 17, Green Lantern: Emerald Knights arrives on Blu-Ray™, DVD, On Demand and for Download June 7, 2011 from Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation.

The full-length animated Green Lantern: Emerald Knights will be distributed by Warner Home Video as a Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack and DVD. The film will also be available On Demand and for Download.

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights weaves six legendary stories of the Green Lantern Corps’ rich mythology around preparations for an attack by an ancient enemy. As the battle approaches, Hal Jordan mentors new recruit Arisia in the history of the Green Lantern Corps, telling tales of Avra (the first Green Lantern) and several of Hal’s comrades – including Abin Sur, Kilowog, Laira and Mogo. In the end, Arisia must rise to the occasion to help Hal, Sinestro and the entire Green Lantern Corps save the universe from the destructive forces of Krona.

Primetime television stars Nathan Fillion (Castle) and Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) lead a diverse array of performers as the voices behind the Green Lantern Corps.

Fillion provides the voice of the animated film’s central character, Hal Jordan, the human Green Lantern assigned to Sector 2814 (which includes Earth). Fillion has starred in several primetime television series including his current hit Castle as well as Desperate Housewives, Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He has also developed a popular cult following as a pair of Joss Whedon’s heroic captains: Capt. Mal Reynolds in the space-western series Firefly and follow-up film, Serenity; and Captain Hammer in Whedon’s internet sensation Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog. Fillion returns to the DC Universe after his successful turn as Steve Trevor in the animated film Wonder Woman, and has performed voice work on the animated series Justice League, Robot Chicken, The Venture Bros., and several Halo video games.

Moss gives voice to Arisia, a young recruit forced into her first mission on just her third day as a Green Lantern. Prior to starring as the ever-evolving Peggy Olson in AMC’s ground-breaking series Mad Men, Moss was featured on The West Wing, Invasion and Picket Fences. Moss has been active in voiceovers for animation with previous roles in Steven Spielberg Presents Animaniacs, Freakazoid! and It’s Spring Training, Charlie Brown!.

The voice cast for Green Lantern: Emerald Knights also features actor/spoken word artist Henry Rollins (Sons of Anarchy, The Henry Rollins Show) as Kilowog, Jason Isaacs (the Harry Potter films) as Sinestro, legendary professional wrestler “Rowdy” Roddy Piper (They Live) as Bolphunga, Arnold Vosloo (The Mummy) as Abin Sur, Kelly Hu (The Vampire Diaries) as Laira and Wade Williams (Prison Break) as Deegan. Radio Hall of Fame commentator/talk show host Michael Jackson voices the esteemed Guardian, Ganthet.

Bruce Timm is executive producer of Green Lantern: Emerald Knights. Directors are Lauren Montgomery, Jay Oliva and Christopher Berkeley. The six interlocking tales are penned by comic book luminaries Geoff Johns, Dave Gibbons, Peter J. Tomasi, Eddie Berganza, Alan Burnett, Todd Casey and Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim.

“Green Lantern: Emerald Knights is filled with wonderful backstory and exposition on the Green Lantern Corps going far beyond Hal Jordan, making this film a perfect complement to the live-action major motion picture, Green Lantern,” said Hersin Magante, WHV Marketing Director, Family & Animation.

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack has over 2 1/2 hours of exciting content, including:
• Feature film (est. 75 min)
• Sneak Peak at Batman: Year One, the next DC Universe Animated Original Movie
• Behind-the-Scenes look at All-Star Superman
• Featurette: “Only the Bravest: Tales of The Green Lantern Corps” – Bravery is the unique, identifying characteristic of each Green Lantern. Yet what does it mean to be brave? How has the world of Green Lantern and the Corps made bravery into something we can all relate to? This story reveals and defines the bond that holds together the Green Lanterns’ affection for the ring, and the ring’s unwavering loyalty in return.
• Featurette: “Why Green Lantern Matters: The Talent of Geoff Johns” – Geoff Johns is a force to be reckoned with. He’s not only the Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment, he’s a New York Times bestselling writer with a fresh and vibrant storytelling perspective. Johns discusses his contemporary take on the Green Lantern character and why that character resonates in our culture.
• Pod: From Comic Book to Screen: Abin Sur – Take a peek into Geoff John’s “Green Lantern Secret Origin” book which, for the first time, showed fans what really happened to Abin Sur before he crashed landed on Earth, and passed his ring to Hal Jordan.
• Pod: Beautiful … But Deadly – From Comic Book to Screen: Laira Omoto – Green Lantern: Emerald Knights again creatively weaved a riveting comic book short story into the 
intricate plot of the film while introducing the honorable Green Lantern, Laira Omoto. Known as one of the Green Lantern Corps’ fiercest warriors, this mini-featurette takes a deeper look into the history and origin of this humanoid marital artist and her 
family feud with the Golden Dragon!
• Audio Commentary: Dan DiDio and Geoff Johns
• “Green Lantern” Digital Comic Book
• Two bonus episodes from animated television series handpicked by Bruce Timm.
• Standard and high definition versions of the feature film
• Digital copy on disc of the feature film

BASICS
Street Date: June 7, 2011
Order Due Date: May 3, 2011
Languages: English and Spanish

Audio: Dolby Surround Stereo
Color / Closed Captioned
MPAA Rating: PG

Green Lantern: Emerald Knights
Blu-ray Combo Pack – $24.98 SRP
Price: SD 1 Disc – $19.98 SRP

BD Combo Pack UPC: 883929136902
1-Disc UPC: 883929137411