Friday, Mar 6, 2020

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 10:00AM

Basics of Digital Illustration (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Ryan Magnusson

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 11:00AM

Getting Started With 3D Printing (Digital Arts Workshop Friday) (Palm D)
Chris Cox

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 12:00PM

Forgotten Kid Shows (Montgomery Theater)
Remember Milton the Monster? Johnny Socko and His Flying Robot? The Dick Tracy Show? etc. etc. Take a look back at some weird and wonderful series from the 60s and beyond. Nostalgia never looked so good (And weird). John Field

Collection Care and Preservation (Palm A)
Pamela Jackson, Popular Culture Librarian from San Diego State University's Special Collections and University Archives will share some struggles and tips about caring for and preserving your comics collection. Pamela Jackson

Urban Geography (Palm B)
What makes a great comic city? What gives it mood and character on its own? Why do some cities seem destined for destruction while others are ever-present and seemingly indestructible? Professor Lisa Chaddock, Ronald Coleman, Joseph Unger, Trisha Williams

Digital Comic Coloring Techniques (Digital Arts Workshop Friday) (Palm D)
Anthony Washington

The Writer's Block (The Rays Cafe)
The life of a writer is an interesting one with highs, with lows and everything in between. Every writer has a different approach to storytelling and how to stand out in an ever-changing field. Join Jim Krueger, Wendy Pini, Richard Pini, Buzz Dixon and moderator Barbara Kesel as they share their writing stories and learn their creative process. Buzz Dixon, Barbara Kesel, Jim Krueger, Richard Pini, Wendy Pini

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 1:00PM

The Genius of Ray Harryhausen (Montgomery Theater)
A look at the creations and films of this master craftsman. Modern directors interview Ray as he discusses his creative process and shows clips from his finest films. A special tribute to Bernard Herrman and his many fine music scores to Harryhausen films as well. John Field

"That's not for girls!" (Palm A)
A panel about women creators doing stuff they're not "supposed" to do. Boys get to write anything, whether they've been there or not - and when they write girl characters, they don't always do it well. Girls, on the other hand, are too often expected to write from ONLY an Everyday Female viewpoint, even though when they write guy characters, they often do it well. Why is that? Our panelists seek to answer that question. Donna Barr, Roberta Gregory, Diana Leto

Graphic Medicine: Using Comics to Understand Illness and Death (Palm B)
Death and terminal illness are unique and complicated experiences, so much so that breaking the barrier between patients, families and caregivers is often a complicated task. By using comics to tell their stories, authors can use a dynamic type of media to develop empathic connections with readers, and ultimately help others understand grief. Cesar M Alvarado, Ronald Coleman

Globo Comico: International Editions of Comics by Marv Wolfman and Bill Sienkiewicz (Palm C)
This presentation covers a general introduction to international editions of American comics showing some of the many differences between American and international editions of the same comic. Attendees will see international comics featuring the work of Marv Wolfman and Bill Sienkiewicz from many parts of Europe, Latin America, and elsewhere. This presentation is in part meant as a Globo Comico and Comic Book Historians tribute to these respected comic creators being at San Diego Comic Fest. Alex Grand, Dr. N. Scott Robinson

Comic book Layout in Adobe InDesign (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Avery Caldwell

R is for Ray (The Rays Cafe)
From his first published story, "Hollerbachen's Dilemma," in Forry Ackerman's fanzine Imagination in 1938, Ray Bradbury would go on to a decades-spanning career that saw him become our most honored and recognized and most beloved science-fiction author. A great author of science fiction and fantasy, Ray was also a great fan and a great supporter of fandom who helped put San Diego's Comic-Con on the map by being a guest at the first Comic-Con in 1970 and returning regularly thereafter. Please join our panelists in paying tribute to the great Ray Bradbury. Richard Pini, Wendy Pini, Paul Sammon, William Stout

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 2:00PM

A Tribute to Ray Harryhausen (Montgomery Theater)
In 1992, when Ray Harryhausen was recognized by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which awarded him the Gordon E. Sawyer Award for "technological contributions," presented to him by his boyhood friend Ray Bradbury, Tom Hanks, the Master of Ceremonies at the event, said "Some people say Casablanca or Citizen Kane...I say Jason and the Argonauts is the greatest film ever made!" No filmmaker or special effects master more directly influenced and inspired an entire generation of directors and visual effects masters who made the fantasy and science fiction films that have conquered Hollywood and delighted fans around the world. Please join our panelists in paying tribute to this film legend in 2020, the centennial of his birth. Ricardo Delgado, Jim Krueger, Paul Sammon, William Stout, Pete Von Sholly

Science and comics in the classroom: an experience in Mexico (Palm A)
Humans are highly visual when learning new stuff, and Science is no exception. Juanele, Mexican cartoonist and physicist, will share his experiences teaching science with the visual language of comics and with the help of his characters: Cuco and Pepo! Juanele

40 Years of The New Teen Titans (Palm B)
The Teen Titans have been everywhere from animation, TV shows, the big screen and even straight to DVD. But it all started 40 years ago in the pages of New Teen Titans. Join Marv Wolfman as he reflects on four decades of The New Teen Titans. TJ Shevlin, Marv Wolfman

Private vs Public Space Development: Who will get us "Out there"? (Palm C)
Will such private space-exploration and development companies as SpaceX, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic, et al. be the ones to give us a real, permanent presence in space, or will public, national organizations such as NASA still lead the way? Greg Bear, Gregory Benford, Dr. Michael Ravine

Comic Book Production - The Digital Workflow (Digital Arts Workshop Friday) (Palm D)
Sean Glumace

Can Lawyers Be 'Heroes' - Super or Otherwise? What Do Comics Tell Us? (The Rays Cafe)
Ray Bradbury said lawyers put him to sleep by Noon. This mock trial of the entire legal profession and its comic book practitioners will prove him wrong, as experienced attorneys argue both sides of [Two-Face's] coin before the judge and you, the jury. Danny Barer, Jeff Dobberpuhl, Jim Thompson

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 3:00PM

Oddball Comics (Montgomery Theater)
A perennial favorite at Comic Fest, attendees eagerly look forward each year to the funniest, craziest, most out of this world assembly of comic madness that is Scott Shaw!'s Oddball Comics show. What will Scott's theme be this year? There's only one way to find out: be there or be square. Scott Shaw!

Mars 2020, a nuclear-powered rover driving on Mars - our first step in Mars-sample return (Palm C)
In July, NASA will launch the Mars 2020 rover to Mars. M2020's mission is to collect rock core samples in Jezero Crater, Mars, to be returned to Earth by later missions. The M2020 rover's payload includes five cameras developed here in San Diego by Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS). Dr. Michael Ravine, Advanced Projects Manager at MSSS, will describe this mission and the cameras he helped develop for it. Dr. Michael Ravine

Putting Illustration into motion (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Tom Luth

Bill Schelly Tribute (The Rays Cafe)
It was a sad day for comics fandom when Bill Schelly passed away on September 12, 2019. He was a prolific author and comics historian who wrote many authoritative books on comics, comics creators, and comics fandom and was a recipient of both a Comic-Con Inkpot Award (for Fandom Services in 2011) and an Eisner Award (in 2016 for Best Comics-Related Book for his biography, Harvey Kurtzman: The Man Who Created Mad and Revolutionized Humor in America). He was also a great comics fan, having published his first fanzine, Super-Heroes Anonymous, at the age of 13 in 1965. San Diego Comic Fest was honored to have Bill Schelly as our Fan Guest of Honor at the 2019 Fest. His close friend Jeff Gelb will be joined by John Lustig, Mike Catron, Michelle Nolan, and Bud Plant in paying tribute Bill Schelly. Mike Catron, Jeff Gelb, John Lustig, Michelle Nolan, Bud Plant

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 4:00PM

Spotlight on Liam Sharp (Palm A)
Liam Sharp is no stranger to drawing great stories. He's been on iconic comics spanning from Judge Dredd, The Hulk, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern and Gears of War. When he's not at the drawing board he's busy as the CCO of Madefire Inc. He has told a lot of stories to tell but this is your chance to hear his story as we shine the spotlight on Liam Sharp. Alonso Nunez, Liam Sharp

They Called Us The Underground (Palm B)
What are Underground Comics? Weird sex? Strange politics? Big Daddy eyeballs on headshop racks? Who is an underground author? What underground authors are still laying ink on paper - or pixels on screens! - to this day? What made the old days great or awful and how have the veterans on this panel survived and thrived? Even more importantly - how did the underground give rise to the Young Adult books of today? Donna Barr, Mary Fleener, Roberta Gregory, Trina Robbins, Bruce Simon

The Dark Side of the Cosmos (Palm C)
Peering out into the Universe, we are left in awe by the objects we can see: stars, nebulae, and galaxies. But these objects make up a mere 5% of the contents of the Universe: there's more to the cosmos than meets the eye. Dark matter, a substance that permeates all of space, makes up 25% of the Universe's energy content. Dark matter has eluded detection for years due to its lack of interactions with light and normal matter. Yet it reveals its presence through the one thing that it has in common with normal matter: its interactions with gravity. The remaining whopping 70% of the Universe's content is owed to an even more mysterious substance called dark energy, which causes the Universe to expand faster and faster with the progression of time. In this talk, Sophia Gad-Nasr will delve into the dark side of the cosmos, through the depths of ever-expanding spacetime and beyond the radiant objects we see in the night sky. She will explore dark forces that may govern the dark side of the Universe and reveal to you an even more awe-inspiring and bountiful Universe. Sophia Gad-Nasr

Introduction To 3D Modeling With LightWave3D (Palm D)
Stephen Burns

My Mom DIDN'T throw out my Comic Book Collection! (The Rays Cafe)
Comic collector, exhibitor, and historian John Atwater will share Adventure Stories from a lifetime of collecting! Amazing Tales about a 50 year passion for Comic Books. How to assemble a HUGE collection, and what do you do when you've got it! Hear what happens when you own more comics than you can read in a lifetime! John Atwater, Phil Yeh

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 5:00PM

Spotlight on Guest of Honor Bill Sienkiewicz (Montgomery Theater)
San Diego Comic Fest Guest of Honor and Eisner Award Hall of Famer Bill Sienkiewicz has been dazzling readers with his revolutionary approach to art and storytelling for four decades. He'll discuss his career, his influences, his artistic approach, and his obsession with toasters in conversation with comics journalist Rob Salkowitz (FORBES). Rob Salkowitz, Bill Sienkiewicz

Midlife Crisis: Crisis On Infinite Earths At 35 (Palm A)
It was the story that shook the world, every single one of them. 35 years later people are still talking about Crisis On Infinite Earths and impact it had on the DC Universe and the history of comics. The iconic story was revisited 15 years ago in DC's Infinite Crisis and recently in the live action DC television Universe. Marv Wolfman wrote the original series and came back to lend a helping hand in the television crossover. Let join Marv as we talk about 35 years of Crisis on Infinite Earths. TJ Shevlin, Marv Wolfman

Never a Dull Moment with Mary Fleener (Palm B)
Right after finishing her first graphic novel, "Billie the Bee", Mary Fleener decided to return to autobiographical comics and will talk about her new book project, "The Happy Hour" which will be a 200 plus page book published by Fantagraphics. This "bar band memoir" will cover the years Fleener spent as a semi professional musician. After dropping out of college as a printmaking major, Fleener tossed all her supplies, got a job in a music store, and completely rejected any interest in art. The story comes full circle, when she finally returns to doing art, and pursuing what she always wanted to do: comics, something that was considered ridiculous and silly in college at that time. However, the years she spends playing music are typical of the pre-AIDS, pre-Interent craziness of the 70s, when everything was experienced at least once, and anyone who claims to remember it all, wasn't really there-except if you happen to be a budding cartoonist with the memory of an elephant, and that's Fleener! Mary Fleener, Mark Habegger

Working with Jack Kirby on Lord of Light in 1978 to make Art a Reality (Palm C)
Jack Kirby's design work and concept art based on Roger Zelazny's Hugo-winning novel Lord of Light is some of his finest. Barry Ira Geller and Mike Royer, who collaborated with Jack on this mind-bending project, discuss what it meant to Jack and the hope that our consciousness has been changed by his work. Barry Ira Geller, Mike Royer

The Creators of New Fun#1, the First Comics Magazine that began DC Comics (The Rays Cafe)
David Armstrong - art curator of the book DC Before Superman, film and television producer, and past president of the American Association of Comicbook Collectors - will discuss the early contributors to New Fun #1 in anticipation of the reprint published by DC Comics available April 7. This rare comic features comics from artists and writers many of whom went on to long careers in comics. It's a first look at some of the untold stories with a mystery solved about one of the creators and a few surprising tales. David Armstrong

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 6:00PM

Cartoon Cereal Boxes from Around the WORLD (Montgomery Theater)
Really weird Cereal Boxes from around the WORLD. How superheroes and cartoons took over kids' cereal boxes on Earth. Duane will force you to laugh, contemplate, exclaim, and be totally okay being duped by the Supes in cereal forms. We start in 1869, scuttle to 1930s Micky Mouse, fly to 1940s Superman, then examine the 60s to the 00s while showing big pictures of domestic and foreign cereal boxes. From the past 25 years, Duane has handpicked the funniest foreign cereal boxes from the shelves of Iceland, Hungary, Japan, Norway, Mexico, Taiwan, Scotland, China, England and Czechoslovakia. These images, will make your Hand scratch your Head, without thinking. PLUS, included free inside this show are video commercials, facts, racism, beautiful packaging art and insane looking characters. The last topic from the files of deceased cereal boxes, is SEX and DRUGS. Leaving the room, your taste buds will take you straight to a cereal aisle or into a time machine. Panel pushed on you by Duane Dimock. Duane Dimock

The Princess Bride: Interactive Roleplaying Game Liveplay! (Palm B)
Join us for this super-fun live gameplay where we make up a story and roleplay original characters set in the world of The Princess Bride using audience suggestions and the rules of The Princess Bride Roleplaying Game. Plus the audience will get a chance to play NPCs in the game! Bring your friends from the Brute Squad and join the fun! It's inconceivable to miss this panel! Jeff Burns, Jeff Frank, Matt Messerman, Oscar Simmons, Zach Stones

The Amazing Story of Lily Renee (Palm C)
Executive Producer David Armstrong will play his short film Lily, which documents the extraordinary life story and career of Lily Renee. Escaping Nazi occupied Austria, in 1938, she immigrated first to England and then to America to become a pioneer comic book artist, at Fiction House, during the Golden Age of comics. In addition to showing his film, David Armstrong will answer questions and talk about the amazing story of Lily, who turns 99 in May! David Armstrong

Open Board Gaming (Palm D)
Join us for a gaming extravaganza! Pick out a super-fun board game to play from our game library or learn how to play a game from our friendly staff. We'll have a wide variety of games on hand to try out, so come join the fun!

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 7:00PM

Party with the Digital Lizards of Doom (The Rays Cafe)
The Digital Lizards of Doom (Gabriel Valentin, Gallie Fisher, and friends) keep the Friday-night festivities going with some nerd-friendly music, fun, and good cheer. Gallie Fisher, Gabriel Valentin

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 8:00PM

RPG Session and Open Board Gaming continues (Palm D)
More super-fun gaming! (See description above.)

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 9:00PM

PSYCHOTRONIC FILM FEST (Montgomery Theater)
The late night festival returns with more wacky, amusing and downright odd films and t.v. shows. What will be unveiled?. Drop by and see. John Field

Friday, Mar 6, 2020 9:30PM

RPG Session and Open Board Gaming continues (Palm D)
More super-fun gaming! (See description above.)

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 10:00AM

Spotlight on John Semper (Montgomery Theater)
Producer and head writer on the hit show Spider-Man: The Animated Series as well as a writer and story editor for many other animated series, not to mention the writer of Cyborg for DC, John Semper has brought many fan-favorite characters to life. San Comic Fest Chairman (and Spider-Man: The Animated Series superfan) Matt Dunford will interview John Semper and discuss the highlights of his great career. Matt Dunford, John Semper Jr.

Pop Culture, Comic Cons and Comics Archives (Palm A)
Futuristic insight into the next 100 years of Comic Cons, Publishing, Media, Art Galleries and Museums. What will history record and our legacies produce? Join us on this time travel vision of great things to come. Let our imaginations run wild. Are we to be preserved on Digital Media for Millennia! Updates on the Shel Dorf Archives, Koudoulian Archives, Richard Alf Archives and Michael Dorf Archives. Greg Koudoulian, Tom Kraft, Jack Plummer, Steve Schanes, Terry Stroud

80 Years of Robin (Palm B)
This year the Boy Wonder turns 80 years old! Since the first appearance of Dick Grayson in Detective Comics #38 (April 1940), Robin has been the most-popular sidekick in comics and was credited with doubling the sales of Batman after his introduction. Whether crime-fighting with Batman, starring in his own stories, or teaming up with his fellow Teen Titans, Robin has truly been one of the comic character greats. Kevin Dooley, Barbara Kesel, TJ Shevlin, Marv Wolfman

Artists in Hollywood (Palm C)
Ever wonder what it's like to work as an artist in Hollywood? Ricardo Delgado and Pete Von Sholly are here to let us know. Between them, they have done storyboard, design, concept, and visual design art for well over 100 feature films including Mars Attacks!, James and the Giant Peach, Darkman, The Mask, The Shawshank Redemption, The Blob, Nightmare on Elm Street III and IV, The Green Mile, The Mist, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Wreck-It Ralph, John Carter, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, WALL-E, Eragon, Avatar: The Last Airbender (TV series), How to Train Your Dragon, Elektra, The Incredibles, The Matrix Revolutions, The Matrix Reloaded, X2, Jurassic Park III, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Emperor's New Groove, The Mummy, Men in Black, and many more. Ricardo Delgado, Pete Von Sholly

Getting Started With 3D Printing (Digital Arts Workshop Saturday) (Palm D)
Chris Cox

What's Next (The Rays Cafe)
Recurring motifs and archetypes from ancient times to now reveal deep human consciousness expressing the adventures of our creative minds. Modern mythology is the contemporary expression of ancient classical myths, later legends and folk-tales. Frankenstein, Dracula, Sherlock Holmes, Tarzan, Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman were in the vanguard of a pop cultural movement that became a cultural phenomenon. But what comes next? And, what social, cultural, political conditions and changes will be necessary for this to occur? As barriers to change, cooperation, diversity and tolerance are constantly being torn down, opportunities for a new, millennial, post-modern mythology are growing. Anina Bennett, Eli Burton, Paul Guinan, David Lemmo

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 11:00AM

Spotlight on Marv Wolfman (Montgomery Theater)
Over 50 years ago Marv Wolfman got his start working in comics. Since then, he has written nearly every major superhero character from Blade the Vampire Hunter to the New Teen Titans. His career has gone into television, animation and video games. Join us as we talk with Marv Wolfman about monumental career as a writer. TJ Shevlin, Marv Wolfman

Jack Kirby's Fourth World, 50 Years Later (Palm B)
In 1970, the first comic book of what would later be called Jack Kirby's "Fourth World" was released. Superman's Pal, Jimmy Olsen was joined by The New Gods, Mister Miracle, and The Forever People. Join Rand Hoppe and Tom Kraft of the Jack Kirby Museum as they explore the history that lead to the Fourth World. Following that will be a discussion with Mike Royer, inker of the Fourth World, Steve Sherman, Jack Kirby's assistant when the Fourth World was being created, and Bruce Simon, 1970s Underground Cartoonist. Rand Hoppe, Tom Kraft, Mike Royer, Bruce Simon

The Killer B's Panel (Palm C)
The Killer B's — Greg Bear, Gregory Benford, and David Brin — talk about the present, the future, and what they are working on while we get to listen in and maybe ask a question or two. Greg Bear, Gregory Benford, David Brin

Digital Comic Coloring Techniques (Digital Arts Workshop Saturday) (Palm D)
Anthony Washington

Spotlight on Dealer Guest of Honor Terry O'Neill (The Rays Cafe)
Terry O'Neill has over 40-years experience buying and selling collectible comics. He is an expert in comics grading and a Comics Guarantee Company (CGC) authorized dealer, an Overstreet Price Guide (OPG) advisor, and a producer/promoter of comic-collector shows. He is also San Diego Comic Fest 2020 Dealer Guest of Honor. Terry will be interviewed by his friend and fellow comics dealer Jamie Newbold as the discuss Terry's wealth of knowledge about buying and selling collectible comics. Jamie Newbold, Terry O'Neill

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 12:00PM

The Fine Art of Comics (Montgomery Theater)
Art in comics does double duty: it tells the story through pictures but also captivates the reader with the unique style of the individual artist. Join two of comics' most distinctive artists, Bill Sienkiewicz and Liam Sharp, plus IDW Artist Edition editor Scott Dunbier, author/scholar Kim Munson (Comic Art in Museums) and moderator Rob Salkowitz (FORBES) in conversation about the importance of individual expression, innovation and artistic ambition in the context of comics storytelling. Scott Dunbier, Kim Munson, Rob Salkowitz, Liam Sharp, Bill Sienkiewicz

Stories From The Early Comic-Con Years & How Comic Fest Brings Back The Original Essence! (Palm A)
Curious about what Comic-Con was like in its beginning years? Then come and hear about some interesting and special moments in the con's history from people that were there. And find out how Comic-Fest shares many of the wonderful and unique traits from those early con days! Ray Alley, Jackie Estrada, Eugene "Gene" Henderson, Anthony Keith, Dina Kelso, William R. Lund, Clayton Moore

Ted Adams on Clover Press (Palm B)
Join IDW cofounder Ted Adams as he discusses his newest publishing venture, Clover Press, which he says will focus on the book trade and the direct market (comics shop market) with an extremely eclectic list of titles, including genre fiction and licensed properties. Learn what is to come from this "boutique publisher" that aims to produce a carefully curated and lovingly created combination of new titles and reprints of classic works. Ted Adams

The Moon can wait: Asteroids are where it's at! (Palm C)
Let's leave the dusty, sterile, poisonous, and utterly (for now) useless Moon to the kindergartners. Let the Chinese, Indians, Russians, etc. play Apollo catch up. We can do bigger things, especially with the asteroids. Join science-fiction author and futurist David Brin, and Michael Ravine, project manager and designer for space camera systems on asteroid missions now and planned (including one to the metallic asteroid Pysche) as they discuss exploring and utilizing our solar system's abundance of asteroids. David Brin, Dr. Michael Ravine

How Toys Shaped Animation (Palm D)
Toys and cartoons are a match made in heaven. But there was a when toys shaped the animation industry. Buzz Dixon and John Semper are joined by some of San Diego's biggest toy fanatics to chat about how toys influenced animation. Buzz Dixon, John Semper Jr., TJ Shevlin

What Were Romance Comics? (The Rays Cafe)
Join romance comic book historian Sydney Heifler and herstorian Trina Robbins for a discussion on everything romance comics. They will explore the creation of romance comics in 1947, their subsequent popularity, and discuss the various reasons behind their demise. Finally, they will look at some of the more recent attempts by comic book artists, writers, and publishers to revive the genre. Sydney Heifler, Trina Robbins

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 1:00PM

Comic Book Covers: A History From Past to Present (Palm A)
Do you know when the first 'comic book' cover was printed? And why are some famous comic artists considered to have come from 'The Bronze Age?' Here's your opportunity to learn those answers, and also discover the way in which comic book covers have evolved over the past hundred plus years! Eugene "Gene" Henderson

The Editors Panel (Palm B)
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes when you're working with the biggest names in comics? Well, you came to the right place. We are bringing together some of the comic industry's most seasoned editors to tell some very cool tales. Anina Bennett, Kevin Dooley, Barbara Kesel, Chris Ryall

Little worlds orbiting little stars: It's time to think small! (Palm C)
The search for life beyond Earth is no longer science fiction, as over a dozen potentially habitable worlds have now been found orbiting stars other than the Sun. Remarkably, many of these newly-discovered worlds orbit the smallest stars. In this talk, Dr. Burgasser will discuss why little stars have become a productive hunting ground for potentially habitable worlds, how we might determine if they are really habitable, and what life might be like orbiting a dim little star. Dr. Adam Burgasser

Advanced Digital Inking Techniques (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Brian Haberlin

We Drew (and Draw) for Disney (The Rays Cafe)
Mike Royer (AKA "The Pooh Man"), Willie Ito, Ken Mitchroney, and Disney Legend Floyd Norman will share stories from their decades of experience drawing animation, comics, and product designs for Disney. They will be joined by Ricardo Delgado who is working on a new project for Disney animation. Ricardo Delgado, Willie Ito, Ken Mitchroney, Floyd Norman, Mike Royer

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 2:00PM

The Three Tooners (Montgomery Theater)
The Three Tooners speak! Don't miss these great animation creators from the glory days of Hanna-Barbera and so much more! Note: Tony Benedict will be unable to attend the Fest as planned so Disney Legend and Hanna-Barbera alumnus Floyd Norman will join the panel to interview Willie Ito and Jerry Eisenberg about the early days of Hanna-Barbera, followed by the three animation greats discussing their time together at Hanna-Barbera. Willie Ito, Floyd Norman

50th Anniversary of IT AIN'T ME BABE, the First All-Women Comic (Palm A)
In 1970, Trina Robbins and Barbara "Willy" Mendes co-produced all-women comic, It Ain't Me, Babe. Featuring the work of many women cartoonists, the comic was a success and led directly to the long-running Wimmen's Comix title. Anina Bennett, Barbara "Willy" Mendes, Trina Robbins

Spotlight on Jim Krueger (Palm B)
Writer Jim Krueger has crafted a remarkable career for himself over the past few decades. His work in comics includes the Earth X Trilogy, The Foot Soldiers, Project Superpowers and the Eisner Award-Winning Justice with Alex Ross. Beyond comics, he is an award-winning filmmaker and scriptwriter for video games such as Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. Join us as we talk to Jim Krueger about his legendary career as a writer. BONUS: First 25 people to attend get NO ONES #1 signed by Jim Krueger! Jim Krueger, Alonso Nunez

Asimov's Foundation Series and Sequels by the Killer B's (Palm C)
The winner of the one-time Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series" in 1966, Isaac Asimov's Foundation series, an epic future history of galactic scope, is an undisputed classic of the Golden Age of Science Fiction. Beginning in 1981, Asimov continued the Foundation series with two sequels and two prequels. Afer Asimov's passing, his widow and estate authorized the "Killer B's" to write three additional novels in the Foundation series: Gregory Benford's Foundation's Fear (1997), Greg Bear's Foundation and Chaos (1998), and David Brin's Foundation's Triumph (1999). Please join the Killer B's as they discuss the Foundation series and honor science-fiction great Isaac Asimov in this year of the centennial of his birth. Greg Bear, Gregory Benford, David Brin

Comic Book Production - The Digital Workflow (Digital Arts Workshop Saturday) (Palm D)
Sean Glumace

Rat Fink and the legacy of Big Daddy Roth (The Rays Cafe)
Learn what's new with Rat Fink and the work and world of the legendary Big Daddy Roth! Ken Mitchroney, Ilene "Trixie" Roth, Scott Shaw!, William Stout

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 3:00PM

Mock Trial: Mandalorian and Baby Yoda Custody Hearing (Montgomery Theater)
The Armorer told the Mandalorian, "A Foundling is in your care. By creed, until it is of age or reunited with its own kind, you are as its father. This is the way." Can the Mandalorian legally adopt The Child as his own son? Our would a court appoint the Mandalorian as The Child's guardian? Join law students as they argue to a Judge for the right of the Mandalorian to care for The Child at San Diego Comic Fest. Joshua Gilliland, Leasly Salazar, Claudia Salinas, Judge Emily Spears

The Experience of Creating and Designing a body of work with Jack Kirby (Palm A)
Tom Kraft of the Jack Kirby Museum, Steve Sherman who was Jack's assistant in the early 70s when he was creating "Kirby's Fourth World," Mike Royer, who was Kirby's favorite inker, and Barry Ira Geller, who worked with Jack on the Lord of Light project, will discuss their many mutual and unique, amazing experiences with Jack Kirby. Barry Ira Geller, Tom Kraft, Mike Royer

The IDW Panel (Palm B)
For over 20 years, IDW Publishing has been San Diego's local comic book publisher. Things have been shaking up with Chris Ryall rising to the rank of President, Publisher and Chief Creative Officer. There are some big things in the works so hear from the IDW crew about their past, present and future. Scott Dunbier, Chris Ryall

Our Dusty Universe (Palm C)
Most of the heavy elements that make up the Earth and everything on it (including us) once resided in tiny grains of dust in interstellar space. Dr. Sandstrom will describe the fascinating lives of interstellar dust grains from their formation in fiery supernova explosions to their incorporation into planets like Earth. Although dust is an important player in many processes happening in our Galaxy, it is still very mysterious. She will explain how we are working to understand the properties of interstellar dust both in our Galaxy and others using space telescopes like Spitzer, Herschel and, soon, the James Webb Space Telescope. Dr. Karin Sandstrom

The Cosmic Brain Trust and Cokreeate present: 3D printing and scanning techniques (Palm D)
This workshop will focus on scanning live comic book icons to produce figurines. Step by step live scanning and production seminar. Presenters will be William Clausen from Cosmic Brain Trust, Adolfo Madrigal, Jewelyn Co, and Will Co from CoKreeate, and Wllie Ito. William Clausen, Jewelyn Co, Will Co, Willie Ito, Adolfo Madrigal

Spotlight on Kevin Dooley (The Rays Cafe)
Comics fans know editor/writer Kevin Dooley for a number of accomplishments during his tenure at DC, but he is perhaps best known for overseeing the Green Lantern books during the introduction of fan favorite Kyle Rayner in the Emerald Twilight storyline. He also edited Aquaman during a pivotal time for the character, and has written for Green Arrow, Justice League America, and Mister Miracle. His story "Waiting In The Wings" was published in Batman Annual #13. Come hear Kevin discuss his career in comics. If Kyle Rayner is your Green Lantern of choice, then this is the panel for you! Kevin Dooley, Mark Habegger

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 4:00PM

Spotlight on Luis Gantus and CONQUE (Palm A)
A 30-year veteran of the comics industry in Mexico, Luis Gantus has been an editor, author, educator, journalist, and world-class authority on comics in Mexico. In 1994 he founded Mexico City comic convention CONQUE, one of the largest comic cons in Mexico. He will be interviewed by Gamacon founder Hugo Abel Castro, and will speak on his comics career and comics and comics fandom in Mexico. Hugo A. Castro, Luis Gantus, Phil Yeh

The Kaiju Panel (Palm B)
There is just something about a giant monster that remains an interesting concept, no matter how many times you do it. From King Kong to Godzilla, Cloverfield and Pacific Rim we love big freaky looking monsters that can smash our cities to bits. Beth Accomando, Ricardo Delgado, Ramie Tateish

Advanced Digital inking Techniques (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Brian Haberlin

San Diego Comic-Con: Looking Forward, Looking Back (The Rays Cafe)
This past summer, San Diego Comic-Con celebrated its 50th anniversary as the trend-setting crossroads of comics, media and popular culture. What's next for the world's most celebrated fan convention? Join SDCC Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer David Glanzer in conversation with comics business expert Rob Salkowitz (Comic-Con and the Business of Pop Culture) for an inside look at the show that started it all. David Glanzer, Rob Salkowitz

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 4:30PM

David Lynch's DUNE (Montgomery Theater)
Since it's first publication in Analog magazine in 1965, Frank Herbert's Dune has been considered one of the classics of science fiction. The first attempt to turn this epic novel into an equally epic film was David Lynch's 1984 film of the same name. In recognition of this year's centennial of Herbert's birth, Paul Sammon, who worked on the Dune set at Churubusco Studios in Mexico City and has known David Lynch for decades, will give an insiders look at this controversial film. Paul Sammon

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 5:00PM

The Super Friends (Palm A)
The Super Friends remains as one of the most iconic animated television programs featuring superheroes. The show is charming, quirky and became a cultural phenomenon loved by fans all over the world. The Superfriends has earned its place in history and we have assembled a wonderful group of creators to discuss this show. Jim Krueger, John Semper Jr., TJ Shevlin

Roleplay Live Improv with Fate Accelerated (Palm B)
You are the game masters! Marc Biagi (voice actor), Stephen Schwab (Kick in the Door), J'nae Rae Spano (writer), and Napoleon Doom (Creeping Wave Radio and Lost Bread graphic novel) try to get by in a world of characters built around suggestions from the audience. While author and game master Tone Milazzo attempts to keep everything moving forward in a cohesive narrative. It could be brilliant, it could be a train wreck. It's improv! Using Evil Hat's simplified role-playing rule set: Fate Accelerated. Marc Biagi, Napoleon Doom, Tone Milazzo, Steven Schwab, J'nae Rae Spano

Star Wars: Best and Worst Science (Palm C)
Comprising nine feature "episodes," two additional movies, the animated story of the Clone Wars, a Christmas special, and countless books and comics, the STAR WARS saga is complete (for now). Which of the super-scientific ideas presented in STAR WARS - from lightsabers to AT-ATs to planet-destroying weapons - are consistent with the laws of nature as we know them? Our science panel will investigate and answer your questions! Dr. Roger Freedman, Dr. Shane Haggard, Juanele, Dr. Lisa Will

Will Eisner's Spirit (Palm D)
This year will be the 80th anniversary of Will Eisner's The Spirit, and today is the concluding day of Will Eisner Week 2020. Please join IDW and Clover Press co-founder Ted Adams in celebrating this great creator and his beloved comics creation, and learn about the great Eisner and Spirit publications that he is working on. Ted will be joined by Eisner Awards organizer Jackie Estrada. Ted Adams, Jackie Estrada

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 5:30PM

San Diego Comic Fest Auction (The Rays Cafe)
Don't miss the 2020 Comic Fest auction. There will be rare comics, signed original artwork, toys, DVD's, and so much more. Auctions start as low as $1, so there are bargains to be had. This is a LIVE auction and loads of fun to check out. Auctioning gets underway at 5:30 PM. If you would like to donate to the auction, see Alex at Offworldtoys in the exhibit room. All proceeds go to benefit San Diego Comic Fest's IPACE League, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 6:00PM

Romance Comics and The Greats (Montgomery Theater)
Everyone knows that Joe Simon and Jack Kirby created Captain America, but not many people know that they also created romance comics in 1947 with the publication of Young Romance. Romance comics remained extremely popular for over a decade, with many other well-known comic book artists and writers contributing to them. This program explores the contributions of such comic book greats as Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, and Steve Ditko to romance comics. Sydney Heifler

The Offensive Panel (Palm A)
In FAHRENHEIT 451, Ray Bradbury depicted a world that was bereft of books, and the offense they might give, by popular demand. Are contemporary demands to limit or ban speech that some might find offensive lead to such a world? Must giving offense be avoided at all cost or is the freedom to write and draw as one wishes still an important right to be exercised? Michael Dooley, Mary Fleener, Jim Thompson

Wonder Woman, Witches and the Feminine Mystique (Palm C)
Join three professors from San Diego State University as they explore Amazon mythology, female empowerment and Latina identity on TV! Dr. William Nericcio, Professor of English, will discuss Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman. Dr. Walter Penrose, Associate Professor of History, will explore Amazon mythology and female empowerment in the Wonder Woman comics. Dr. Elizabeth Pollard, Professor of History, will explore how witches in comics of the mid-60s and -70s picked up on ancient concerns about witches while engaging contemporary concerns about Betty Friedan's Feminine Mystique and the passage of the E.R.A. William Nericcio, Walter Penrose, Elizabeth Pollard

Open Board Gaming (Palm D)
Join us for a gaming extravaganza! Pick out a super-fun board game to play from our game library or learn how to play a game from our friendly staff. We'll have a wide variety of games on hand to try out, so come join the fun!

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 7:30PM

Party at the Fest with Super Geeked Up: Geeky Improv LIVE! (The Rays Cafe)
Join the Super Geeked Up crew as they discuss zany geeky topics and play super-fun geek-themed improv games like Superhero Sound Effects, Action Figures, and Ridiculous Rhyming! If you like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, you'll love these geektastic shenanigans. Featuring Super Geeked Up creator/host Jeff Burns and special guests Matt Messerman (Knights of the Rolled Table, National Comedy Theatre) and Alex Deddeh (National Comedy Theatre). Plus a ton of audience participation and prizes! Don't miss this super-interactive, award-winning show that will provide the zaniest fun you have at Comic Fest! Jeff Burns, Alex Deddeh, Matt Messerman

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 8:00PM

Blood on the Clocktower Game, RPG Session, and Open Board Gaming continues (Palm D)
We're running the epic social deduction game Blood on the Clocktower. This recently Kickstarted game by The Pandemonium Institute has players trying to figure out who amongst them is good, who is the demon killing the townsfolk, and has everyone asking themselves, "Am I drunk?" At the same time, you can come play more board games or join us for our second RPG session of the day. If you've always wanted to try role-playing, then join one of our RPGs run by an awesome team of Game Masters. Beginners are very welcome for all games. This is a perfect time to learn to play RPGs or try out a game you've never played before. RPGs being run will include games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Fate Core, Action Movie World, Cypher System, Monster of the Week, Henshin, and Marvel Heroic Roleplaying.

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 8:30PM

Still More Untold Tales of Hollywood (The Rays Cafe)
Paul Sammon and William Stout have worked in Hollywood for decades and they've seen it all. This is a great chance to listen in on two film-industry veterans telling insider stories about the crazy, wicked, and wonderful world that is Hollywood. Film fans, don't miss this one: you will hear things you've never heard before! Paul Sammon, William Stout

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 9:00PM

PSYCHOTRONIC FILM FEST PART II (Montgomery Theater)
The late night festival returns with more wacky, amusing and downright odd films and t.v. shows. What will be unveiled?. Drop by and see. John Field

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 9:30PM

Blood on the Clocktower Game, RPG Session, and Open Board Gaming continues (Palm D)
More super-fun gaming! (See descriptions above.)

Saturday, Mar 7, 2020 11:00PM

Oddball Comics Late Night (Montgomery Theater)
Scott Shaw!'s fan-favorite Oddball Comics gets a late-night twist, where he pulls out the comics that he doesn't show to the daytime audience. Leave the kids at home for this one. Scott Shaw!

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 10:00AM

The Crazy World of Romance (Montgomery Theater)
Throughout the post-war era, romance comics saturated the comic book market. They featured stories and advice columns that often offered ridiculous ideas concerning love, marriage, and how to get a man. Come listen to comic book historian Sydney Heifler talk about some of the more outlandish aspects of romance comics, including such stories as "Dangerous to Love," "I Joined a Teen-Age Sex Club," and "Man Hater!" Sydney Heifler, Scott Shaw!

How to Sell Comics (Palm A)
We all love comics and there is nothing better than going into a store to get your fix. But comic stores are often very different from one another and how do they stay competitive in a constantly shifting industry? Join some of the finest local dealers around as they share their expertise on how to sell comics. Mathias Lewis, Jamie Newbold, Terry O'Neill, TJ Shevlin, Aaron Trites

Bradbury is from Mars. The Eternaut is from Argentina: National Identity and the Invasion Narrative (Palm B)
The panelists will compare the narratives and themes of The Eternaut and The Martian Chronicles; discussing how aspects of national identity, such as the U.S.' foundational myth of Manifest Destiny or Argentina's history of military authoritarianism, influenced their respective narratives. Secondly, we will examine how their countries of origin responded to the cultural and political critiques presented therein. While The Martian Chronicles' "There will Come Soft Rains" was adapted by EC in 1953, it is doubtful that story, or many other chapters, would have received a Comics Code Authority Seal by the end of that decade. Alex Grand, Dr. N. Scott Robinson, Jim Thompson

Are Aliens Lurking in Our Solar System? (Palm C)
We examine other star systems to locate planets that might be compatible with life as we know it. Are there inhabitants of such systems who have looked back at us? Could they have sent robotic probes to examine our Earth, perhaps even settling somewhere in our solar system for longterm monitoring? If so, where might they be hiding, how might we best look for them, and could they still be monitoring us? Greg Bear, Gregory Benford, Dr. Michael Ravine, Erik Virre

Girl Scout Comics Merit Badge Workshop (Palm D)
Alonso Nunez (Little Fish Comic Book Studio) will lead a Girl Scout merit badge comics-making workshop. Please note: attendance is limited to Girl Scouts who have pre-registered with workshop organizer Pamela Jackson. Pamela Jackson, Alonso Nunez

Ray Bradbury at EC (The Rays Cafe)
Join us for a slideshow discussion of Ray Bradbury's stories as they were adapted by writer/editor Al Feldstein for EC comics by some of the greatest comics artists of the 20th century - featuring work by Wallace Wood, Al Williamson (with Angelo Torres and Frank Frazetta), Jack Kamen, John Severin and Will Elder, Joe Orlando, Graham Ingels, Johnny Craig, George Evans, Jack Davis, Reed Crandall, and Bernard Krigstein. Presented by J. Michael Catron, editor of The Fantagraphics EC Artists' Library (27 volumes and counting!). Thommy Burns, Mike Catron, Orty Ortwein, Steve Ringgenberg

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 11:00AM

Gamemastering 101 (Palm A)
Have you always wanted to weave stories into intricate tales of awesome and action? Have you played in a tabletop RPG such as Dungeons and Dragons and had a great time and was curious about what happens behind the screen but have been too nervous or hesitant to do so? Well, do not fear any longer! This panel will be a semi-organized discussion/lecture on what it takes to be a GameMaster, Dungeon Master or anything in between! How do you prepare? What steps to take? Fast tips to make GM-ing for your first time super easy and fun for everyone! Moderated by Aniruddh Bose-Raut and featuring GMs Troy Alford, Kelcey Calderon, Stacy Dellorfano, Michael Ramirez, and F. Douglas Wall. Troy Alford, Aniruddh Bose-Raut, Kelcey Calderon, Stacy Dellorfano, Michael Ramirez, F. Douglas Wall

Superfight (Palm B)
Comic fans get into fights every now and it's all in good fun. IDW Publishing President/Publisher Chris Ryall and TJ Shevlin are pretty knowledgeable about their comic characters and they are always up for a heated debate. Hear these guys flex their powerhouse comic knowledge against each other. It's Ryall vs. Shevlin in Superfight! Chris Ryall, TJ Shevlin

The Crossroads of Science Fiction, Rock Music, and Fandom in the 1960s (Palm C)
Gregory Benford, Cindy Lee Berryhill, Paul Sammon, William Stout

The First Geeks; Ray Bradbury and the LA Science Fiction League (The Rays Cafe)
Before they were famous, Ray Bradbury, Ray Harryhausen, and Forry Ackerman were three buddies who used to meet every week as members of the LA Science Fiction League. Orty Ortwein (Ray Bradbury Experience Museum) talks about how this friendship enhanced their careers and changed geek culture. Orty Ortwein

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 12:00PM

4 Decades of Elfquest (Montgomery Theater)
Elfquest has been going strong for over 40 years and has made its way across every publisher. Elfquest has walked a journey from fan favorite, to critical acclaim and into pop culture sensation. Join Special Guests Wendy and Richard Pini as they discuss 4 decades of Elfquest. Joe Phillips, Richard Pini, Wendy Pini

Art During the Holocaust (Palm A)
What is propaganda and why would it be targeted against innocent Jewish people? This panel will discuss the comic and graphics used pre-World War II along with art found during the Holocaust. Trina Robbins, renowned American artist will share her knowledge of the female cartoonists, while Sandra Scheller, creator of Art During the Holocaust and curator of RUTH: Remember US The Holocaust will give a more person point of view and lessons learned from her mom, Ruth Sax a Holocaust Survivor. Matt Dunford blends his world knowledge of history and comics during pre WWII until 1945. Stephen D. Smith, USC Shoah Foundation will moderate this blend of speakers into an unforgettable panel of history and "herstory." Matt Dunford, Trina Robbins, Sandra Scheller, Stephen Smith

Will Eisner's Graphic Novels (Palm B)
Will Eisner is known for popularizing the graphic novel (although he did not "invent" the term, as is sometime claimed). What graphic novels did Will himself write and draw? Jackie Estrada (administrator of the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards) helps celebrate 2020's Will Eisner Week by offering insights into more than a dozen of Eisner's works, starting with 1978's A Contract with God and including The Dreamer, Dropsie Avenue, A Life Force, The Name of the Game, To the Heart of the Storm, A Family Matter, and The Building. Jackie Estrada

The Hidden History of the Atomic Bomb (Palm C)
75 years after the first atomic weapons were used in World War II, there are still aspects of the science and technology behind the bomb that are little known to the public. In this nontechnical talk Dr. Freedman will discuss the basic physics of nuclear fission; how Allied scientists got the physics right and how German scientists got it wrong; how a wartime issue of Astounding Science Fiction almost gave the atomic secrets away; and how plans to deliver the atomic bomb to targets in Japan contributed to one of the largest industrial projects in American history, the building of the Boeing B-29 bomber. Dr. Roger Freedman

Remembering Ray Bradbury and Ray Harryhausen (Palm D)
San Diego fans and fans turned pro Greg Bear, David Clark, and Scott Shaw! reminisce about their fondly-remembered, decades-spanning encounters with Ray Bradbury and Ray Harryhausen that began when they were teenage fans attending a talk given by Bradbury in San Diego in the 1960s. Greg Bear, David Clark, Scott Shaw!

How To Keep Comics Thriving in 2020 and Beyond (The Rays Cafe)
We all love comics, but there is no denying that the business of comics has seen better days. Even as superheroes top the box office sales of comics are down and stores are closing. Join our panel of experts as they ask, "How do we keep comics thriving in 2020 and beyond?" Barbara Kesel, Mathias Lewis, Jamie Newbold, Chris Ryall, TJ Shevlin

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 1:00PM

I Used To Write Spider-Man (Montgomery Theater)
Spider-Man is easily one of the most recognizable characters in history and loved by fans all over the world. Spidey has lept from comics to animation, toys, film and video games. Now we have the chance to chat with great writers who have left their mark on Marvel's flagship character. Join John Semper, Marv Wolfman and Jim Krueger as they talk about their time with everyone's favorite web-head. Matt Dunford, Jim Krueger, John Semper Jr., Marv Wolfman

Remembering Howard Cruse (Palm A)
This year will see the 40th anniversary of the first publication of the landmark, long-running Gay Comix series. In issue #1, founding editor Howard Cruse, wrote, "In drawing this book, we gay cartoonists would like to affirm that we are here, and that we live lives as strewn with India inked pratfalls, flawed heroics, and surreptitious truths as the rest of the human race." Sadly, Howard Cruse passed away in November, 2019 after a pioneering and accomplished life as a cartoonist. San Diego Comic Fest is proud to honor him and celebrate his work, which also included his underground comic Barefootz, the comic strip Wendel in The Advocate, and the DC-published graphic novel Stuck Rubber Baby. Panelists include Roberta Gregory, who contributed to the first issue of Gay Comix as well as many subsequent issues, and Trina Robbins, who was also a contributor and a leading creator of Wimmen's Comix, which was cited by Cruse as a model for the comic book storytelling in Gay Comix. Roberta Gregory, Trina Robbins

Native Americans, the U.S. military, boarding schools, and comics (Palm B)
Author Chag Lowry (Yurok/Maidu/Achumawi) will share about his graphic novels titled Soldiers Unknown and Reflections. Soldiers Unknown, with art by Rahsan Ekedal, is a World War One story about the California Native American experience in the Meuse-Argonne, which remains the largest battle in U.S. Army history. He will also discuss his upcoming comic anthology Reflections, which contains a story about the boarding school system that Native people in America were forced to endure. Reflections will feature art by Weshoyot Alvitre, Eli Hyder, and Rahsan Ekedal. Soldiers Unknown and Reflections (Fall, 2020) are published by Great Oak Press. Chag Lowry

Dragonfly, a nuclear-powered drone flying on Titan - out next mission to the outer Solar System (Palm C)
This past fall, NASA selected Dragonfly, a mission that will fly a nuclear-powered drone on Saturn's moon Titan. The Dragonfly aerocraft will carry an advanced payload of scientific instruments, including ten cameras developed here in San Diego by Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS). Dr. Michael Ravine, Advanced Projects Manager at MSSS, will describe this audacious mission and his role in it. Gregory Benford, Dr. Michael Ravine

Comic Book Production - The Digital Workflow (Digital Arts Workshop Sunday) (Palm D)
Sean Glumace

How to Make a Living Being Creative (The Rays Cafe)
Working as an artist is the dream of many people. But staying in the business as a successful artist is another story. Industry professionals Bill Sienkiewicz, Wendy Pini, Joe Phillips, Liam Sharp and Barbara Kesel to tell you just what it takes to make a living as a creative. Barbara Kesel, Lee Kohse, Joe Phillips, Wendy Pini, Liam Sharp, Bill Sienkiewicz

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 2:00PM

Into the Ditkoverse (Montgomery Theater)
Steve Ditko was one of the most influential creators who ever graced the medium of comics. His impact was felt far across the landscape of comics, inspiring countless creators. Now a group of these creators sit down to discuss the stories he crafted, the world he built and how it impacted their lives. Mark S Ditko, Jackie Estrada, Chris Ryall, John Semper Jr.

Shrimpenstein (Palm A)
Shrimpenstein was a hosted horror kids show from KHJ Channel 9, Los Angeles that aired from 1967-1968. The show hosts were Gene Moss as Dr. Rudolph Von Schtick and Jim Thurman who voiced Shrimpenstein. Shrimpenstein, affectionately known as "Shrimpy", was a miniature Frankenstein monster, "created" when jellybeans accidentally fell into the "Monster Machine." The noted sculptor and puppet-master Wah Chang, brought Shrimpy to life. Moss and Thurman are more widely known for writing the Roger Ramjet cartoon show, but those fortunate to have seen Shrimpenstein when it aired will always be grateful to them for that unique childhood viewing experience. Scott Shaw!, Bruce Simon

The Duck Man, Carl Barks (Palm B)
Join us for a slideshow discussion of Carl Barks, one of the most brilliant comics artists of the 20th century, and his wickedly funny work on Donald Duck and Uncle Scrooge. Presented by J. Michael Catron, editor of The Complete Carl Barks Disney Library (18 volumes and counting!). Mike Catron

Frank R. Paul: Father of the Future (Palm C)
In the nineteen twenties and thirties pioneering Pulp artist Frank R. Paul virtually created the look of the future. Join David Clark and Greg Bear to explore the work of this father of Science Fiction illustration. Greg Bear, David Clark

Digital Comic Coloring Techniques (Digital Arts Workshop Sunday) (Palm D)
Anthony Washington

Little Fish Comic Book Studio (The Rays Cafe)
Little Fish Comic Book Studio has been grown as San Diego's premier center for comic book education. Now as Little Fish enters its 8th year, it continues to grow with the help of a strong community. Learn how Little Fish helps nurture a community and keep going strong with a love of comic creation. Alison Flynn, Alonso Nunez, TJ Shevlin

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 3:00PM

Ray Harryhausen: A Celebration of his Early Works (Montgomery Theater)
A look at the pioneer animator's Fairytale and Mother Goose Classics of the 1940s. RED RIDING HOOD, KING MIDAS and the short film TORTISE AND THE HARE which Ray started work on in 1952 and completed in 2002!. You will also see test footage for a proposed version of WAR OF THE WORLDS and many other projects. Ray Harryhausen 90th Birthday Tribute The British Film Institute celebrated the work of Mr. Harryhausen on the event of his 90th Birthday in 2010 attended by many of his fans and friends. A look at his many classic films have clips that Ray himself comments on. Peter (Lord of the Rings) Jackson shares great memories and host John Landis represents all Monster Kids everywhere in sharing his obvious respect for Ray. John Field

The Library Panel (Palm A)
Local libraries have been a fundamental part of building communities and education outreach. Lately, graphic novels have achieved a growing presence in libraries to readers of all ages. Join this gathering San Diego County area Librarians -- Pamela Jackson (San Diego State University Library), Erwin Magbanua (Chula Vista Library), Amy Kleman (Oceanside Library), and Monica Barrette (Chula Vista Library) -- as they discuss the use of graphic novels in the libraries. Moni Barrette, Pamela Jackson, Amy Klemen, Erwin Magbanua

Not Enough Drawings by Ronald Searle (Palm B)
What do John Lennon, Matt Groening, Tim Burton, Posy Simmonds, Mort Drucker, Ralph Steadman, Gerald Scarfe, and several Disney animators have in common? All have credited British cartoon satirist Ronald Searle as a significant influence. With a prolific 70 years of career accomplishments - ranging from New Yorker covers to animated film titles - Searle is most acclaimed for his scabrous St. Trinian's series of hilarious gag cartoons about a sadistically depraved girls' boarding school. Come join our centennial anniversary event celebrating the NCS/Reuben Award-winning Searle's creativity - and noting his many distinguished artist offspring - and become inspired yourself. Michael Dooley

The Science of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (Palm C)
Comprised of over twenty films, the Marvel Cinematic Universe features aliens, gods, super-soldiers, enhanced humans, space travel, time travel, and more. But is any of the science in the movies realistic? Join us for a discussion of how science works in the MCU and learn about possible real-life analogies. Dr. Shane Haggard, Dr. Lisa Will

Frank the Unicorn, 40 years of creativity (Palm D)
Phil Yeh created Frank the Unicorn in 1979 in his studio in Long Beach, California. Frank started as a comic strip in Uncle Jam magazine and became a full length graphic novel in 1981. That graphic novel The Adventures of a Modern Day Unicorn told the true story of a unicorn who plays golf and has all kinds of adventures around the world. This continued in 1982, with his second book, Frank on The Farm which featured an introduction by Sergio Aragones. Then in 1984, Frank became Vice President of The United States and a black cleaning woman became President. Frank's adventures continued with his own comic book as well as in many other books. In 2020, Phil will publish a new Frank the Unicorn graphic novel in the summer, his biggest book to date. Phil may even talk a bit during this program about his personal experiences with Ray Bradbury, who wrote an introduction to the third Frank the Unicorn graphic novel. Phil Yeh

San Diego Comic Fest Auction: Part II (The Rays Cafe)
Take home a piece of Comic Fest 2020 history including posters and other Rays Cafe decorations. Most items you see in the Rays Cafe will be auctioned off Sunday with bids starting as low as $1, so there are bargains to be had. This is a LIVE auction and loads of fun to check out. Auctioning gets underway at 3:00 PM. All proceeds go to benefit San Diego Comic Fest's IPACE League, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Sunday, Mar 8, 2020 4:00PM

2nd Annual Tribute to the Animation of the Fleischer Brothers (Montgomery Theater)
Max & Dave Fleischer created some of the most iconic characters in the history of motion picture animation. Following up from our presentation of last year, you will see an all new assortment of animated gems. Betty Boop, Popeye and Superman are highlighted John Field

How such pop culture as Harry Potter and Supernatural can help us understand mental health (Palm B)
Popular culture can be thought of as a metaphorical window into our darkest truth. This panel will focus on what we can learn about mental health (depression, anxiety, and PTSD) from our favorite fandoms, such as "Harry Potter," "Supernatural," "Star Wars" and others. Join award winning author and clinical psychologist Dr. Janina Scarlet and a renowned illustrator, Vince Alvendia as they talk about what we can learn about the relationship between pop culture and mental health. Musician and podcaster, Dustin McGinnis moderates. Vince Alvendia, Dustin McGinnis, Janina Scarlet

Working with video: Animated backgrounds and compositing your 3D rendering (Digital Arts Workshop) (Palm D)
Philip Staiger