Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Bluefin Reveals Samurai Influenced "Star Wars" Figures



BLUEFIN ANNOUNCES EXCITING NEW ADDITIONS TO MEISHO MOVIE REALIZATION STAR WARS LINE OF FIGURES FROM TAMASHII NATIONS

Highly Detailed Figures Incorporate Japanese Samurai Aesthetic; Pre-Orders Open For “Ronin” Boba Fett, “Daisho” Darth Vader, “Teppou Ashigaru” Sandtrooper and “Akazonae” Imperial Guard; “Taisho” Darth Vader And “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper Figures

Available Now!!

Irvine, CA – Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Hong Kong and more, offers Star Wars fans and ardent collectors something unique as it highlights a variety of super-detailed figures from the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line by Tamashii Nations.

The Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line pays homage to the Samurai aesthetic and artfully reimagines several Empire characters from the legendary films with feudal-style Japanese armor and weaponry. Each figure is exquisitely crafted by some of Japan's top sculpting talent and constructed with hybrid materials featuring up to 15 points of articulation to create endless posing possibilities.

The newest addition to the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars product line is the “Ronin” Boba Fett, which debuts in December and depicts the intergalactic bounty hunter as a “lordless” Samurai warrior via the sculpting talent of artists Takeyuki Takeya and Junichi Taniguchi. The “Daisho” Darth Vader depicts the Dark Sith Lord as a Samurai General clad in sinister black “Death Star” armor and will debut in January 2016. It will be followed in May 2016 by the imposing Akazonae Royal Guard, outfitted with a Japanese-style katana and pike and resplendent in beautiful crimson-robed armor. Pre-orders for these figures are available now.

Fans that want to dive into the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line immediately can select from a trio of figures – available now – that includes the “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper, and the Samurai General “Taisho” Darth Vader. Each is clad in a unique set of armor and comes with an array of weapons and other accessories.

Meisho Movie Realization “Ronin” Boba Fett
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available December!

Everyone's favorite bounty hunter goes medieval! Boba Fett joins the Meisho Movie realization series in a spectacular feudal Japan aesthetic, appropriately portrayed as a lord-less “Ronin” Samurai via the sculpting talent of artists Takeyuki Takeya and Junichi Taniguchi. In addition to his EE-3 rifle portrayed as an flint-lock style blaster, this deluxe figure set features an extensive array of accessories that includes a characteristic backpack missile that can be removed/attached, and a moveable helmet mounted scope. In addition to a short ninja-style katana and sheath, numerous ninja-style blade accessories that are also included can be subtly attached to shin and forearm area mounting points.






Meisho Movie Realization Samurai General “Daisho” Darth Vader
Height: Approx. 7 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: January 2016

The greatly popular Samurai General Darth Vader makes a comeback in an all new Death Star motif. Another stunningly unique artistic interpretation master crafted by acclaimed artist Takeya Takayuki, Darth Vader - Death Star Armor - has a revamped armor design. Most notable is the fearsome Death Star-style crest on the helmet and highly detailed chest plate pattern. Set includes interchangeable hands, gun (large, small), and katana sword (light saber and regular).

Meisho Movie Realization “Teppou Ashigaru” Sandtrooper
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: March 2016

The third figure to join this unique series is the artillery packed Teppo Ashigaru Sandtrooper! The Sandtrooper version comes with two gun powder type rifles and a Japanese katana sword ready for battle. A special backpack is designed with meticulous detail and finished with a rusty patina look. Flexible material makes posing the Sandtrooper holding a firearm a breeze. The set includes three sets of interchangeable hands, blaster rifles (small and large), a Japanese katana set, and backpack.   

Meisho Movie Realization “Akazonae” Royal Guard
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: May 2016

The imposing crimson-robed Akazonae Royal Guards are next to join the Samurai General’s side in this high-quality Japanese feudal take on the Star Wars legacy. The Akazonae Royal Guard comes wielding not only the iconic force pike-esque staff, but a traditional Japanese-style katana as well. The front robe pieces are removable, giving the option of displaying the Guard in a samurai armor fashion. For further nuanced posing, the Akazonae Royal Guard set also includes interchangeable hands. The unique use of “wa,” Japanese style also makes for a one of a kind sculpt design that fans cannot find anywhere else.

The following Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars products are available now through various retailers:

Meisho Movie Realization Samurai General “Taisho” Darth Vader
Height: Approx. 7 inches; MSRP: $92.99
Available Now!

An exquisitely rendered figure of Darth Vader portrayed as a Japan feudal era Samurai General. A unique artistic interpretation master crafted by acclaimed artist Takeya Takayuki, this original stylized figure pays homage to the Japan aesthetic and film influences on Star Wars. Tamashii Nations' Movie Realization brand takes the theme of movies and infuses that concept into high quality figures. And the secret ingredient? All figures have an added pinch of "wa" (Japanese style) that makes for a one and only, unique design – from the tip of his sharp lightsaber-turned-katana to the meticulously sculpted Samurai-esque armor. Look closely at Vader’s helmet and one will notice the Imperial insignia arranged in elaborate “wa” style. Set includes two interchangeable lightsaber parts and 3 sets of interchangeable hands perfect for posing the Samurai-styled Sith Lord as he manipulates the Force.

Meisho Movie Realization “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $81.99
Available Now!

In this interpretation, Samurai Vader's foot soldiers of the Empire come clad in far-gone Japanese feudal era attire and armament. The exquisite figure has been master crafted by Japan's top sculpting talent and features hybrid materials used for dynamic posing possibilities Set includes katana and blaster rifle accessories, as well as three sets of interchangeable hand parts.


About Bluefin
Based in Irvine, CA, Bluefin built its reputation as a leading distributor of Japanese toys, collectibles, novelty and hobby products. In recent years, Bluefin has grown to include a range of high quality collectible lines from the United States, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore and established itself as the official North American consumer products and retail development partner for Studio Ghibli. Selling to thousands of specialty, chain and independent stores, Bluefin is an official North American distributor for Bandai Hobby, Kotobukiya and Capcom, is the sole provider of Bandai Tamashii Nations products, and is also the exclusive and official distributor for Hero Cross, Beast Kingdom, Comicave, Mr. Hobby, Groove’s Pullip dolls, SEN-TI-NEL and X-Plus. Bluefin also represents TruForce Collectibles products worldwide. Additional information is available at: www.bluefincorp.com.

----------------------------


Vivek J. Tiwary Hosts "The Harvey Awards" at 2015 Baltimore Comic Con


Join the Comics Industry at The Harvey Awards

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - People can attend, on the evening of Saturday, September 26, 2015, the Harvey Award Ceremony and participate in an experience like none other in Comic Fandom. Attendees will have an opportunity to see Harvey Awards nominees, along with some of the top talent in the industry. The Harvey Awards ceremony will honor the award recipients and induct two creators into the Harvey Kurtzman Hall of Fame. In addition, The Hero Initiative will present their annual awards.

Harvey Awards tickets are on sale NOW! Tickets to the event, which includes a full cocktail hour (cash bar), full service dinner (featuring a Baltimore Crabcake!), the awards ceremony, and a gift bag, are now available for $125. Tickets are available at our website via credit card at baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.

Following a cocktail hour where you can rub elbows with industry professionals and fans alike, this exciting evening will be highlighted by our host Vivek J. Tiwary, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, Tony Award-winning Broadway producer, and the founder of multi-platform arts and entertainment company Tiwary Entertainment Group.

Vivek will welcome our presenters to the stage, including comics professional like Darwyn Cooke, Mike Gold, David Petersen, Sara Richard, Mark Waid, and Marv Wolfman.

In addition, you will be witness to the honoring of legendary comics talent being recognized for their contributions to the industry. The Hall of Fame inductees will be Will Eisner, represented by Carl and Nancy Gropper, and Jules Feiffer. From The Hero Initiative, the 2015 Hero Lifetime Achievement award will be presented to Russ Heath, and the Giordano Humanitarian recipient is Denis Kitchen. Attendees can join in honoring this legendary group!

The Harvey Awards are also pleased to present a gift bag to the first 300 attendees purchasing tickets for this comic event of the fall. This year's gift bag is a wonderful collection of books, including such treasures as Wally Wood's EC Stories Artisan Edition from IDW, The Fifth Beatle Collector's Edition from Dark Horse, 3 Pen & Ink (Hit, George Perez's Sirens, and Day Men) editions from BOOM! Studios, and a beautiful Jules Feiffer Art Print from Abrams ComicArts. In addition to these wonderful books, expect contributions from other publishers as well, including DC Entertainment, Valiant Entertainment, and Archie Comics.


About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 16th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 10 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

------------------


2015 BET "Hip Hop Awards" Nominations Announced; Plus, Uncle Scoop is Back!

Uncle Snoop Returns to the Biggest Stage in Hip Hop to Host the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 Premiering Tuesday, October 13th at 8:00 P.M.*

Drake Leads the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 Nominations for a Second Year in a Row with Twelve Nominations Including Album of the Year; Followed by Big Sean with Ten Nominations; Nicki Minaj Scores Nine Nods; Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole Tie with Eight Nods

Taping at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA

#HIPHOPAWARDS

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Third time’s the charm as entertainment icon Snoop Dogg aka Uncle Snoop and BET Networks team up again for the biggest night of hip hop, electrifying cyphers, powerful performances and legendary tributes that encompass the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015! Highly respected with more than 20 years in the industry, Uncle Snoop continues to set trends and pave the way for both new and established artists. At last year’s “Hip Hop Awards,” Uncle Snoop wowed the audience with his hilarious monologue and skits as well as witty, OG banter throughout the show. An entertainment icon, Snoop is affectionately known as Uncle Snoop in the music industry for the leadership and guidance he provides to both established and up and coming artists. With more than 20 years in the business, Uncle Snoop has become an international name for his work in music, film, entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

    “We’re gonna do it big with more surprises and more performances—you’re not gonna wanna miss this!”

“With the huge success of the first two shows, I'm excited to host my third BET ‘Hip Hop Awards’ this year,” said Uncle Snoop. “We’re gonna do it big with more surprises and more performances—you’re not gonna wanna miss this!”

For a second year in a row, Drake leads the BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2015 with twelve impressive nominations for ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘MVP of the Year,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ ‘Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)’ and as a featured artist for two ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured verses,’ ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ two ‘Best Hip Collabo, Duo or Group’ and ‘People’s Champ Award’ nods. Followed by Big Sean with 10 nominations; Nicki Minaj with 9 nominations; Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole in a close tie with eight nods.

The awards will be taped on Friday, October 9, 2015 at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA for the tenth year running, and will premiere on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Sprite® returns as a sponsor of the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015, presenting in part the always noteworthy cyphers along with MetroPCS, as well as the “green” carpet. Also returning is the “I Am Hip Hop” Award, recognizing an individual who has made a profound imprint on hip hop music and culture throughout the years.

Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment will serve as Executive Producer of The BET Hip Hop Awards along with Stephen G. Hill; BET’s President of Programming; Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music and Specials; and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials.

The complete list of BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” ’15 Official Nominees:

Best Hip Hop Video
Big Sean F/ Chris Brown & Ty Dolla $ign - Play No Games
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West - Blessings
Fetty Wap - Trap Queen
Kendrick Lamar - Alright
Nicki Minaj F/ Beyoncé - Feeling Myself

Best Collabo, Duo or Group
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West - Blessings
Big Sean F/ E-40 - IDFWU
Fetty Wap F/ Monty - My Way
Nicki Minaj F/ Beyoncé - Feeling Myself
Nicki Minaj F/ Drake & Lil Wayne - Truffle Butter

Best Live Performer
Drake
J. Cole
Kanye West
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Lyricist of the Year
Big Sean
Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Video Director of the Year
Alan Ferguson
Benny Boom
Chris Robinson/Lil Chris
Colin Tilley
Director X

DJ of the Year
DJ Drama
DJ Envy
DJ Esco
DJ Khaled
DJ Mustard

Producer of the Year
DJ Mustard
J. Cole
Kanye West
Mike Will Made-It
Pharrell Williams
Timbaland

MVP of the Year
Big Sean
Drake
Future
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Track Of The Year
Alright – Produced By Pharrell Williams & Sounwave (Kendrick Lamar)
Blessings – Produced By Boi-1da & Vinylz (Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West)
Commas – Produced By DJ Spinz & Southside (Future)
IDFWU – Produced By DJ Dahi, DJ Mustard, Kanye West & Key Wane (Big Sean F/ E-40)
Trap Queen – Produced By Tony Fadd (Fetty Wap)

Album Of The Year
Big Sean – Dark Sky Paradise
Drake – If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late
J. Cole – 2014 Forest Hills Drive
Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp A Butterfly
Nicki Minaj - The Pinkprint
Wale – The Album About Nothing

Who Blew Up Award
Bobby Shmurda
Dej Loaf
Fetty Wap
Rae Sremmurd
Tink

Hustler Of The Year
Dr. Dre
Drake
J. Cole
Jay Z
Nicki Minaj

Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)
A$AP Rocky
Dej Loaf
Drake
Kanye West
Nicki Minaj

Best Hip Hop Online Site
Allhiphop.Com
Complex.Com
Hotnewhiphop.Com
Rapradar.Com
Worldstarhiphop.Com

Best Club Banger
Big Sean F/ E-40 – IDFWU (Produced By DJ Dahi, DJ Mustard, Kanye West & Key Wane)
Dej Loaf – Try Me (Produced By Dds)
Fetty Wap – Trap Queen (Produced By Tony Fadd)
Future – Commas (Produced By DJ Spinz & Southside)
Rich Homie Quan – Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh) (Produced By DJ Spinz & Nitti Beatz)

Best Mixtape
Future – 56 Nights
Future – Beast Mode
Future – Monster
Lil Wayne – Sorry 4 The Wait 2
Travis Scott – Days Before Rodeo

Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse
Drake – Blessings (Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West)
Drake – My Way Remix (Fetty Wap F/ Drake)
E-40 – IDFWU (Big Sean F/ E-40)
Kendrick Lamar – Classic Man Remix (Jidenna F/ Kendrick Lamar)
Lil Wayne – Truffle Butter (Nicki Minaj F/ Drake & Lil Wayne)

Impact Track
Big Sean F/ Kanye West & John Legend – One Man Can Change The World
Common & John Legend – Glory (From The Motion Picture “Selma”)
J. Cole – Apparently
J. Cole – Be Free
Kendrick Lamar – Alright

People’s Champ Award
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West – Blessings
Fetty Wap – Trap Queen
Future – Commas
Kendrick Lamar – i
Rae Sremmurd – No Type
Rich Homie Quan – Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)

Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:

    On BET.com: http://www.bet.com/shows/hip-hop-awards.html
    On Twitter by using hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET
    On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards

Follow Snoop Dogg on Twitter (@SnoopDogg), Instagram (@SnoopDogg), Facebook.com/SnoopDogg, YouTube.com/WestFestTV and SnoopDogg.com.

*Note: BET “Hip Hop Awards” is a private event and tickets are not available for purchase to the public. Talent tickets are reserved for BET “Hip Hop Awards” show talent and nominees.


ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS”:
BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET Networks delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins, the company’s CEO, has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, BET Honors, The UNCF Evening of Stars and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins currently Exec. Produces “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” (now going into its 4th hit season) alongside industry Icons Stan Lathan and Ralph Farquhar; and has worked with superstar talent such as Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince, Mariah Carey and many more.

ABOUT SNOOP DOGG AKA UNCLE SNOOP:
An entertainment icon and with more than 20 years in the business, Snoop continues to pave the way in the hip-hop industry, serving as a mentor to many new and established artists. Snoop stands at the forefront of popular culture with award-winning and multi-platinum albums and songs, critically acclaimed films and television shows, lifestyle products, philanthropic efforts and tech and digital ventures, including his YouTube original series “GGN News,” and his best-selling app, Snoopify. Snoop defines hip-hop history. He’s set records with his seminal album Doggystyle, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 800,000 copies in the first week. Throughout his career, Snoop’s produced chart-topping hits including “Gin & Juice,” “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Next Episode,” “Beautiful,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Signs,” “Sensual Seduction” and “I Wanna Rock.” BUSH, Snoop’s latest album via Columbia Records and executive produced by Pharrell Williams, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album Chart, marking Snoop’s sixth chart topping hit. Snoop’s non-profit work in the community is commendable, as he established the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) in 2005 to give children between the ages of five and 13 the opportunity to participate in youth football and cheer. SYFL teaches them the values of teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline, and academics.

Follow us @BET_PR

--------------------

Monday, September 21, 2015

2015 Baltimore Comic-Con Announces Panel Programming

Baltimore Comic-Con 2015 Announces Panel Programming

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - The 16th annual Baltimore Comic-Con returns to the Baltimore Convention Center the weekend of September 25-27, 2015. Tickets are available now for General Admission, VIP, and Harvey Awards! As is the case every year, we have received a steady stream of requests for our Panel schedule -- details are now ready for release, and it looks fantastic!

Friday will feature spotlights on David Petersen's Mouse Guard, Marvel Comics' New Mutants, featuring a number of creator contributors to the classic series, and numerous panels featuring some of the industry's largest publishers including Dynamite Entertainment, IDW, and Valiant Entertainment.

Saturday, you can go to Batman Day Baltimore Comic-Con style, publisher panels including Marvel, BOOM! Studios, Valiant Entertainment, and Action Lab Entertainment, and spotlight panels on Charles Soule, Jules Feiffer, Russ Heath, and Guest of Honor Mark Waid, and media guests Paul Blackthorne and Ming-Na Wen.

Sunday, learn about Vivek Tiwary's The Fifth Beatle, the 75th anniversary of Will Eisner's The Spirit, and attend spotlights on Scott Snyder, Tom Palmer, and media guests Katie Cassidy and Edward James Olmos.

We also continue our series of cosplay-oriented panels through the weekend, featuring topics of interest to both participants and spectators alike.

And, of course, don't let your children miss the excitement scheduled for the Kids Love Comics Pavilion!

Friday
(Please note, all times and panels shown are subject to change.)

Room 339-342

2:30-3:30 - The New Mutants
In the early 1980s, Marvel introduced the world to the next wave of Homo superior, The New Mutants! The book has remained popular through the years and has introduced many new mutants to the Marvel Universe. Join us for a look at this remarkable team with guests including original team co-creator Bob McLeod, writer/editor Louise Simonson, and artist Bret Blevins!

3:45-4:45 - Dynamite Entertainment: The Next Ten Years
Join the Dynamite gang and their star-studded line-up of editorial and creative talent for an hour of explosive power! From James Bond to Red Sonja, Grumpy Cat to Vampirella, Dynamite will cover it all! What faraway threats imperil John Carter, the hero of Ron Marz's Warlord of Mars comics? What terrors and triumphs are in store for the goddess Dawn and monster hunter Vampirella, courtesy of Joseph Michael Linsner's wild imagination? How does Francesco Francavilla turn in some of the most captivating cover artwork, month-in and month-out, for Dynamite titles like The Avenger and James Bond? Such juicy insights are just a taste of what's in store at Dynamite's "Next Ten Years" panel - as well as the latest Dynamite news and answers to all your burning questions!

5:00-6:00 - IDW Publishing: The Big Panel!
This is the big one! Join IDW President Greg Goldstein and VP of Marketing Dirk Wood, along with industry legend Walter Simonson and a host of surprise special guests you won't believe, as they blow away a room full of shocked comic fans. Shocking announcements! Amazing prizes! Q&A! This one will have it all.

Room 343-344

2:30-3:30 - Valiant 101: New Fans Start Here!
You've heard the buzz... You've seen the reviews... Now find out where to start with Valiant Comics! From X-O MANOWAR to NINJAK to THE DEATH-DEFYING DR. MIRAGE and QUANTUM AND WOODY, jump on board here with a concise and fun-filled introduction to Valiant's biggest, most memorable characters...and find out for yourself why Buzzfeed calls Valiant "a universe full of your new favorite superheroes"!

3:45-4:45 - Posing for Cosplay Photography
Sometimes doing photographs for cosplay can be a little...awkward and intimidating, from both sides of the lens. This panel will have practical advice to help you pose yourself or your models in a way that is in character, flattering, and makes for more dynamic and interesting photographs.

5:00-6:00 - The Awesome Reasons on Why You Should Cosplay
Unhappy about the direction Cosplay is going in the community, then let's do something POSITIVE about it! Let's talk about all the awesome things Cosplay is and why, YOU the FAN, have every right to cosplay no matter what society says, however you want to! Take charge and show society it's not just for Halloween anymore! Show your freedom of expression in your own way and let's have some fun with this!! Bring your positive vibes and get some cool swag! Moderator: Ireland Reid.

Room 345-346
2:30-3:30 - Energy at the Movies: From Star Trek to Breaking Bad

STEM (science, technology, engineer, and math) experts from the U.S. Department of Energy discuss the interplay between science, engineering, and cinema.

Participants:
Cynthia Anderson, DOE Senior Advisor and Star Trek collector extraordinaire (Moderator)
Marius Stan: DOE Senior Advisor and "Bogdan" in Breaking Bad
Andrew Bittner: DOE Writer/Editor and comic book aficionado
MĂ©kell Mikell: DOE Special Advisor, gamer and otaku
Rodrigo (Rod) V. Rimando, Jr., DOE Senior Technical Advisor and Star Wars Rebel Alliance

3:45-4:45 - Spinner Rack Revolution
In the 1970s, publishers fled from spinner racks to magazine stands to escape the bounds of the Comics Code Authority. With a larger format, in a different rack, comics could openly deal with adult content, have more horror and suspense, and be frank about sexuality. Magazines like HEAVY METAL, VAMPIRELLA, EPIC ILLUSTRATED, 1984, and SAVAGE SWORD OF CONAN all broke new ground for a mainstream audience, and loosened the restrictions on some of comics' top creators. Moderated by The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund's Alex Cox.

5:00-6:00 - Mouse Guard
Mouse Guard, the story of mice struggling to survive in a dangerous world, has gained a devoted following of fans due to the stories and art of creator David Petersen. Mouse Guard is also the subject of this year's Baltimore Comic-Con Yearbook. So we're celebrating! Join Petersen and special guests Craig Rousseau, Stan Sakai, Mark Buckingham, and Katie Cook as they talk all things Mouse Guard!

Room 347-348

2:30-3:30 - Living in Harmony: Digital and Print
The world of digital comics created quite a stir in the world of print comics. However, after a few years of co-existing, they are both still around and seem to be helping each other to become a strong industry. Join this panel to check in and see how digital and print are doing with Mark Waid, Amy Chu, Katie Cook, Christy Blanch, and James Tynion IV.

3:45-4:45 - Beg, Borrow, & Steal: Adapting, Incorporating, & Drawing Inspiration from Myth, Legend, & Literature
From the start, comics have mined folklore and fiction for material, whether retellings like Classics Illustrated or re-imaginings like Wonder Woman. Creators Walter Simonson, Ron Randall, Greg Pak, and Jamal Igle, along with moderator/creator Paul D. Storrie, discuss the high points and headaches of making the old (and downright ancient) new again for a modern audience.

5:00-6:00 - Stories I Haven't Yet Told
Writers are storytellers but not every comics writer can find the right venue for a story they want to tell. What stories remain lurking in their minds? In a lively discussion, Louise Simonson, Terry Moore, John Ostrander, Ron Marz, and moderator Robert Greenberger explore the matter.

Kids Love Comics Pavilion Workshop Area

4:00-5:00 -  Haiku 101 with Mark Poulton
Kids, learn about haiku writing and work with Mark Poulton, writer/artist of A Cat Named Haiku, to write your very own cat-themed haiku poem. Worksheets and crayons will be available to participate!

5:00-6:00 - Cosplay Crafts with Gina Super Sox
Gina makes clothing for superheroes to wear! Okay, they are everyday folks dressed as superheroes, but she makes them look super. The seamstress of Super Sox Shop will discuss making clothing and fabric crafts. She'll also help you design your own felt superhero symbol to take home and attach to a shirt or cape.

6:00-7:00 - Imagination, Creation, and Comics! with Kyle Puttkammer and Marcus Williams
Learn how to become a faster and better artist with Galaxy Man, Cosmic Girl, and the Hero Cats. If you have aspirations of creating the next big hero, or just want to improve your doodles, get ready for some serious fun!

Saturday
(Please note, all times and panels shown are subject to change.)

Room 339-342

11:00-12:00 - The Marvel Panel
In the wake of Secret Wars, it's an All-New, All-Different Marvel Universe! Want to know what this means for your favorite heroes? Then join Marvel's Senior Vice President of Publishing Tom Brevoort and creators including Charles Soule, Greg Pak, and Frank Tieri for this exciting look to the future!

12:15-1:15 - CosLove Presents: "Celebrating the Fun of Cosplay"
Cosplay has become a phenomenon at conventions. This panel will explore some of the dos and don'ts of not only being a cosplayer, but also a fan. We will cover anti-bullying, harassment, and how to make cons more fun for all.

1:30-2:30 - The Spirit 75th Anniversary Panel
Join the Eisner Award-winning writer Matt Wagner (Grendel, The Shadow), artist Dan Schkade (Sam Hannibal), and colorist Brennan Wagner (The Shadow: Year One) for a celebratory event seventy-five years in the making! You'll be amazed at the insight offered up by these exceptional storytellers as they discuss the creative legacy of industry legend Will Eisner and his most iconic character, The Spirit. Also, the audience will be invited to ask questions, so be sure to brush up beforehand on the adventures of Denny Colt, Sand Saref, The Octopus, and more!

2:45-3:45 - Batman Day
It's Batman Day and we're celebrating! Join DC's VP of Talent Development Bobbie Chase and a stellar lineup of creators who chronicle the adventures of the Dark Knight, his allies, and his foes; including Scott Snyder, Peter Tomasi, Greg Pak, Jimmy Palmiotti, Tom King, and James Tynion IV. This is one panel you don't want to miss!

4:00-5:00 - Spotlight on Miracleman
Miracleman is back! The legendary series that redefined super-heroes forever has returned at Marvel Comics. Join artists Mark Buckingham, John Totleben, and editor Cory Sedlmeier for a discussion of the acclaimed and controversial series. Featuring an advance preview of art from Neil Gaiman and Mark Buckingham's upcoming storyline, "The Silver Age."

5:15-6:15 - BOOM! Studios Celebrates 10 Years and Push Comics Forward
2015 marks the 10th year of publishing for BOOM! Studios, a multiple Eisner award-winning top 10 comic publisher. Rather than look back at what we achieved the past 10 years, join us as we look ahead to the next 10 years and how we can all push comics forward. Moderated by BOOM! President of Publishing and Marketing , Filip Sablik, join Mark Waid (Irredeemable), J.G. Jones (Wanted), James Tynion IV (The Woods), Brian Stelfreeze (Day Men), Brooke A. Allen (Lumberjanes), and BOOM! editor Dafna Pleban as they highlight the changes in the industry and what they want to see in comics.

Room 343-344

11:00-12:00 - IDW: The Masters Series: Walter Simonson
Join industry legend Walter Simonson, for the first in a series of special in-depth panels exploring artists and the art they love! Ever been curious about who influenced the best artists in the business? Of course you have! IDW President Greg Goldstein moderates this unique one-on-one panel. Sure to be a spirited discussion about old influences, new impressions, and maybe even a sneak-peek at some of new work! Come early and stay late - Walter will share his great tales of the comic world, and hopefully will have time for a little Q&A at the end as well!

12:15-1:15 - 25 Years of Valiant: Book of Death and Beyond
Celebrate 25 years of the largest independent universe in comics with an all-star panel spotlighting the next earth-shaking changes coming for Valiant's biggest heroes! From the epic events of BOOK OF DEATH and WRATH OF THE ETERNAL WARRIOR to seismic changes for X-O MANOWAR, BLOODSHOT REBORN, THE DEATH-DEFYING DR. MIRAGE, DIVINITY, and many more, get the jump on the future of the Valiant Universe right here with an exclusive round of news and announcements from the most acclaimed publisher in comics today!

1:30-2:30 - Comics Creators Consuming Coffee: Baltimore Edition
Watch popular comics creators as they sample the world's strongest coffee while chatting about their favorite foods and comics. Featuring: Amy Chu (writer Poison Ivy, editor of the Food & Comics anthology), Greg Pak (Marvel/DC Storm, Amadeus Cho), Heidi MacDonald (The Beat, Publishers Weekly), and Rafer Roberts (Nightmare the Rat).

2:45-3:45 - Jules Feiffer Spotlight
Jules Feiffer is an award-winning cartoonist, a playwright, a screenwriter, and so much more. His book Kill My Mother: A Graphic Novel was published last year and Out of Line: The Art of Jules Feiffer was published earlier this year. This spotlight is a perfect opportunity for fans of Mr. Feiffer to hear him speak about his work. Don't miss out! Moderated by Michael Cavna (Comic Riffs) of The Washington Post.

4:00-5:00 - Let's Talk Comics with RAYTIMANDROB: Part Deux
Those CRAZY comic book guys are back! Join Raytimandrob as they continue the discussion on all things comics. Part 2 picks up where we left off, expanding on both the creative and business sides of comics. Come be a part of the RayTimandRob experience!

5:15-6:15 - Charles Soule Spotlight
He killed Wolverine. He gave Guy Gardner a sweet 'stache. He Swamp Thinged and She-Hulked and Superman-Wonderwomaned. He is currently Landoing, Civil Warring, Inhumaning, and Letter 44ing, and will soon Daredevil. He is the comics writer Charles Soule! See him face off against moderator Ryan Browne (God Hates Astronauts) in a no-holds battle to the finish (of talking about his work).

Room 345-346

11:00-12:00 - Cosplay 101
Who should you cosplay? How do you put a costume together? What about props? What should you know your first time out on the con floor as a cosplayer? Come learn about how to get started, how to put your costume together, and some great tips for strutting your stuff from some cosplay veterans.

12:15-1:15 - It's an Ad, Ad, Ad World -- Advertising in Comics
From SeaMonkeys to "The Insult that Made a Man Out of Mac" to TNT's The Last Ship, ads have been an integral part of the comic reading experience. But are they a speed bump in the entertainment process or an integral part of comics and Pop Culture? Moderator Ed Catto (Bonfire Agency, Captain Action) takes a brief backwards glance at nostalgic comic ads, and then focuses on the future of comic advertising with an all-star panel of business professionals.

1:30-2:30 - Russ Heath Spotlight
If you remember Roman or Revolutionary War battle scenes in comics advertising toy soldiers, then you know the art of Russ Heath! He's drawn westerns, superheroes, horror, and most famously, war stories. He co-created DC's The Haunted Tank and Sea Devils. Now the legendary creator joins us for a spotlight panel looking at his amazing career!

2:45-3:45 - CBLDF Podcast Live
The industry's top creators, editors, and publishers sit down with CBLDF for a live, long-form interview about the importance of Free Speech in comics, and protecting your right to read and create comics! Moderated by Alex Cox and featuring surprise guest stars from the world of comics.

4:00-5:00 - Listen to Jimmy
This is an over-16 only, over-the-top panel where Jimmy Palmiotti, Frank Tieri, and super-special surprise guests interact with the audience and talk about everything and anything and probably break some laws in the process. You do not want to miss this.

5:15-6:15 - The Silver Age of Comic Book Art
Comic book art historian Arlen Schumer's presentation based on his new book, The Silver Age of Comic Book Art (Archway Publishing), explores the origins of the superhero traditions, their personification of American ideals and values, and how those attitudes and portrayals changed during the turbulent 1960s, through the works of the eight artists in the book-Carmine Infantino, Steve Ditko, Jack Kirby, Gil Kane, Joe Kubert, Gene Colan, Jim Steranko, and Neal Adams. You'll not only see where Hollywood's love affair with superhero movies comes from-you'll see comics like you've never seen them before!

Room 347-348

11:00-12:00 - Writing Great Characters
Do you really have to write what you know? Join this panel to hear how scribes write characters that differ from their everyday life experiences. Join moderator Christy Blanch with guests Louise Simonson, Amy Chu, Thom Zahler, Mark Waid, Terry Moore, and Jamal Igle.

12:15-1:15 - Superheroes Under a Microscope
AtomicUniverse.org's very own Christopher Preece, who is also a science consultant for comic creators, and creators Mark Waid and Ramona Fradon discuss science in comics. Superheroes defy scientific laws all the time but how close are superheroes to reality? Just how fast can the Flash go? How can Ant-Man get so tiny?

1:30-2:30 - Drawing Fantasy Worlds
What goes into making a fantasy world? How do you set it apart from every other fantasy world from literature and comics? How do you give the writer exactly what he envisions? Take a journey into the realm of the fantastic with Mark Buckingham, Mike Grell, Charles Vess, Brandon Peterson, and moderator Robert Greenberger.

2:45-3:45 - Action Lab
On the eve of their fifth anniversary, Action Lab shows no signs of stopping! Join Jamal Igle (Molly Danger), Vito Delsante (Stray), and more as they talk about all the things "the Lab" has planned for 2016, including more Full Moon Productions comics, more all-ages titles, and the debut of the Actionverse!

4:00-5:00 - Mark Waid: Guest of Honor Spotlight
Mark Waid is the Guest of Honor at Baltimore Comic-Con this year and we're celebrating! Join Waid and his friends and colleagues, including Barry Kitson, JG Jones, Christy Blanch, Dean Haspiel, Todd Dezago, and moderator Bob Greenberger for a fun-filled look at Mark and his work!

5:15-6:15 - A Look at Digital Comics
It's a Digital Age - explore the magic, craft, and business of digital comics as we look at this ever-changing and expanding edge of the comics medium and industry! Join guests Matthew Dow Smith, Jamal Igle, and others with moderator C. Edward Sellner for a look at the new age of comics.

Ballroom (4th Floor)

11:00-12:00 - The World of Lantern City
Lantern City is an exciting, new steampunk comic series just launched by Archaia and Macrocosm Entertainment, featuring wondrous settings, engaging characters, and of course, some great costumes. Come explore the development of the series and see exclusive behind-the-scenes content with co-creator Matthew James Daley, actor Raphael Sbarge (Once Upon a Time), and BOOM! editor Dafna Pleban, and learn what's new with the development of the proposed television series. Moderated by BOOM! Studios President of Publishing & Marketing Filip Sablik.

12:15-1:15 - Paul Blackthorne Spotlight
Paul Blackthorne plays Captain Quentin Lance on Arrow and is known to many as Harry Dresden from The Dresden Files. Join Mr. Blackthorne and moderator Paul Storrie for what is sure to be a fun and lively look at his career!

1:30-2:30 - Ming-Na Wen Spotlight
As Agent May on Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Ming-Na Wen kicks butt and takes no prisoners. Do you expect her panel to be any different? Of course not! Don't miss out on the fun!

3:00 - Costume Contest (Adults)

Kids Love Comics Pavilion Workshop Area

11:00-12:00 - Learn to Draw Owly and Everything Else! with Andy Runton
Andy Runton, creator of the award-winning Owly series, teaches you how to pencil and ink your drawings. Open to kids, parents, and anyone who wants to learn how the professionals draw comics!

12:00-1:00 - Pixel Portraits with Tim Fielder
Pixel Portraits: A Digital Storytelling Workshop, by the creator of Matty's Rocket, showcases his storyboarding process of panel to panel techniques for comics, animation, and film.

1:00-2:00 - Create Your Own Superhero Symbol with Carolyn Belefski
Every hero needs a logo! Many superheroes have personal branding on their outfits and My Little Pony characters even have cutie marks! Join artist and designer Carolyn Belefski and learn how to incorporate graphic design elements to create an icon and establish your own powerful visual identity.

2:00-3:00 - Light Saber Training with Jedi Master Jongal
Learn the ancient techniques of the light saber in this fun and safe workshop lead by Jedi Master Jongal of the Dagobah system.

3:00-4:00 - Alien Art with Dawn Griffin and Steve Conley
Dawn and Steve draw fun comics about aliens. In this workshop, you'll meet Dawn and Steve, learn how they create their comics, and draw your own wacky alien!

4:00-5:00 -  Superhero University (OPEN TO THE FIRST 40 KIDS)
You won't be able to fly and it won't give you super powers, but you will learn all the ins and outs of superheroics from the industry's top professors. PLUS, you'll have fun making your own cape and superhero mask! Come to this workshop as a kid, leave as a superhero!

5:00-6:00 - PIC-DRAW! with Dave Roman
Dave Roman, creator of Astronaut Academy, hosts this fun, improvised drawing game that combines as many awesome things as a single piece of paper can handle!

6:00-7:00 - Creating Comic Strips with Ben Taylor and Chris Otto
Do you have a funny idea for a comic strip? Chris Otto and Ben Taylor are the minds behind the popular webcomic, A Dog's Life. They'll share their insight on writing and drawing comic strips. Working with ideas from the audience, Chris and Ben will create a brand new comic strip.

Sunday
(Please note, all times and panels shown are subject to change)

Room 339-342

11:00-12:00 - Scott Snyder Spotlight
Scott Snyder is known to readers for his stunning writing on Batman, American Vampire, Superman Unchained, Wytches, and many other comics. We turn the spotlight on Synder and his work in this entertaining panel moderated by James Tynion IV.

12:15-1:15 - The 75th Anniversary of The Spirit
2015 marks the 75th Anniversary of the legendary cartoonist Will Eisner's immortal character, The Spirit (June 1940). Join Arlen Schumer, writer/illustrator/designer and comic book historian (The Silver Age of Comic Book Art, Archway Publishing), as he presents a Master's Class on Eisner using The Spirit as its primer: a retrospective overview of Eisner's magnum opus, and all of its revolutionary graphic tropes and storytelling techniques-character design, staging, lighting, lettering, and panel and page design-that make Eisner the D. W. Griffith of comic book art!

1:30-2:30 - The Fifth Beatle: Exclusive Film Presentation!
The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story was the most celebrated graphic novel of 2014, and is now becoming a feature film with the blessing of The Beatles and unprecedented access to their music. Join award-winning graphic novel and screenplay writer Vivek J. Tiwary as he presents never-before-seen scenes from the screenplay and discusses how the film will differ from the book. Moderated by Patrick Reed (ComicsAlliance, Depth Of Field).

2:45-3:45 - Tom Palmer Spotlight
Award winning artist Tom Palmer is one of comics' greats. Considered by many to the best inker in the industry, his work with Neal Adams, Gene Colan, and John Buscema remains unsurpassed. He is also a distinguished penciller, painter, and colorist. Join Mr. Palmer and Jose Villarrubia, artist and chair of MICA's Illustration Department, as they look at Palmer's amazing career.

Room 343-344

11:00-12:00 - Talkin' About Marvel
Want to know about your favorite Marvel hero? Ever wonder what an editor does? Curious about what working in comics is really like? Then join Marvel's Senior Vice President of Publishing Tom Brevoort for this panel where he'll be talkin' about Marvel.

12:15-1:15 - How to Make a Graphic Novel
So how do you go from doodling on your homework to breaking into graphic novels? Published YA author and trained art educator Laura Lee Gulledge (MA Art Ed) walks you through her process in this inspiring and informative presentation. She dishes out her favorite Artner Advice for the writing and drawing process, and takes you behind-the-scenes of how to make a book from initial script to final inking.

1:30-2:30 - Flying High with Hang Dai Studios
Brooklyn, New York's premiere comix studio, Hang Dai, houses a unique posse of cutting edge cartoonists which include Gregory Benton (B+F), Dean Haspiel (Billy Dogma, The Fox), the late Seth Kushner (Schmuck), Christa Cassano (Ghetto Klown), Swifty Lang (Plunder), Vito Delsante (Stray), and Chris Miskiewicz (Thomas Alsop). Moderated by Bleeding Cool's Hannah Means-Shannon, the studio will read from their Hang Dai Editions imprint debuts: SMOKE, BEEF WITH TOMATO, and SCHMUCK, and discuss their studio origins, where they are now, and where they're going next.

2:45-3:45 - Boys and their Toys - Fifty Years of Action Figures
Ed Catto celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Captain Action, the first superhero toy, with a line-up of Action Figure experts in a panel that will celebrate toys, upcoming toys, collecting, entrepreneurs, and even a little nostalgia.

Room 345-346

11:00-12:00 - The Comic Shop
Ever wonder what it's like to run your own comic shop? Do you think it's sitting around reading comics all day while getting paid? Join comic shop retailers and learn more about the comic shop business than you probably wanted to know! Moderated by Christy Blanch with guests Kyle Roberts, Mark Waid, and others.

12:15-1:15 - The Weird West
The Wild West - cowboys, rustlers, train robberies. It's the stuff of legend. But add in a horrifically scarred gunman, something moving in the shadows, things that won't stay dead, or just a healthy dollop of magic, and you've entered the Weird West! Join Timothy Truman, John Ostrander, Greg Pak, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, Jimmy Palmiotti, and moderator C. Edward Sellner and explore a west beyond your imagination!

1:30-2:30 - Indie Comics 101
Learn the ins and outs of starting your own comic company from industry pros. Follow them as they take you though printing to distribution. Hosted by Creature Entertainment's Editor-in-chief Juan Navarro.

Room 347-348

11:00-12:00 - Techniques for Affordable Cosplay
You know the classic advice: choose simple costumes, bargain hunt, stack coupons at JoAnn Fabrics. Even with all these tricks, it can be hard to put something together on a budget! Let's talk about some of the more creative ideas and techniques to put your cosplay together affordably.

12:15-1:15 - Making Comics for Everyone
An all-star panel of writers and artists talk about the power of comics, and how they work to reach new readers and make stories for all audiences. Featuring: Amy Chu (Poison Ivy, Wonder Woman, DMC Comics), Vivek J. Tiwary (The Fifth Beatle), Clayton Henry (Ivar Timewalker), and Laura Martin (Secret Wars, A-Force, Star Wars).

1:30-2:30 - Comic Books as Cultural Mirrors
This panel will look at the 75 year history of comic books with a particular focus on the relationship between comics and their historical, cultural, and political contexts. Moderated by Christy Blanch with special guests Mark Waid, Walter Simonson, and Louise Simonson.

2:45-3:45 - "Heroes Helping Heroes" Presents the Dynamic Movement of Comic Book Cosplaying to Strengthen our Sense of Self and Community
Join us to remember Baltimore's Batman and learn how costuming groups like Justice League Mid-Atlantic, East Coast Avengers, and others serve our community, and how you can cosplay more often and make a significant difference in your life and that of others! Listen to our members' stories; see them in action on the big screen; learn how you can join in; and participate in a Q&A session to satisfy your curiosity.

Ballroom (4th Floor)

12:00-1:00 - Katie Cassidy Spotlight
Katie Cassidy is known to Arrow fans as Laurel Lance, an attorney and ex-girlfriend of Oliver Queen, who becomes Black Canary! Don't miss this spotlight panel as Ms. Cassidy looks at both her time as an actor and a philanthropist. It'll be a scream!

1:00-2:00 - Edward James Olmos Spotlight
Edward James Olmos has played Gaff in Blade Runner, Admiral Adama in Battlestar Galactica, Robert Gonzales on Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., as well as many other roles in his distinguished career. Join Mr. Olmos for an exciting panel exploring his time in front of the camera!

2:30 - Costume Contest (Kids)

Kids Love Comics Pavilion Workshop Area

11:00-12:00 - Jumpin' Jamie's Musical Madness
Jumpin' Jamie plays "kindie rock" for all ages! He has played everything from birthday parties for a crowd of 12, to a stadium for a crowd of 12,000, and everything in between. Your toes will tap and your hands will clap as you enjoy his energetic and interactive performance.

12:00-1:00 - Doodle! Scribble! Draw! hosted by Mark Mariano
Dani Jones and Ted Tucker vs. Rich Clabaugh and Jacob Chabot

Join in a frenetic game where you and professional comic artists pit your scribbles against one another in a series of improvisational drawing quests. Do you have the courage to doodle silly things for a crowd? And will the crowd have the imagination necessary to help the teams complete the quests and win the Doodle Scribble Draw championship belts?

1:00-2:00 - Families Make Comics! with Franco and Nicolas Aureliani, and John, Katie, Will, and Jack Gallagher
Families that make comics together laugh and learn together. The Aurelianis created several Aw Yeah Comics stories together. Katie and her dad, John Gallagher, created Zoey & Ketchup. John also worked with his sons, Will and Jack, to create E.P.I.C. Bros. Discover some tricks and tips on making comics with your family.

2:00-3:00 - A Piggy's Tale Comic Reading and Drawing! with Piggy and Tod Emko
Join Tod Emko for a live reading of A Piggy's Tale, the universally loved all-ages comic. Piggy the Three-Legged Super Pup will be present to greet his public and model as the audience draws the heroic canine. If Piggy likes the drawing, the child will receive the first issue of A Piggy's Tale! All participants will have their photos taken with their drawings for the piggytale.com website.

3:00-4:00 - Meowsers with Power with Mike Maihack
Mike Maihack, the creator of Cleopatra in Space, leads this fun feline frenzy workshop. Mike will draw cats as superheroes using ideas from the crowd. So sharpen your pencils, sharpen your wits, and see how many superhero cats you can draw!

4:00-5:00 -  Groove is in the Art with Mark Mariano and Chris O>Matic
The forecast is calling for a Jam Drawing with chances of Dance Outbursts in this exciting art experiment. Music can make us happy, make us cry, and invoke childhood memories, but what kind of drawings will it inspire? YOU can draw alongside a bunch of guest artists with DJ Chris O>Matic spinning the tunes.

TICKETS
General Admission and VIP Package tickets for Weekend, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, as well as the Harvey Awards, are now on sale! Visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets/ for more information and to purchase your advanced tickets now, and as always, kids 10 and under get into the show free with a paid adult General Admission!

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
While they are available, be sure to take advantage of discount rate arrangements we have made with hotels near the Baltimore Convention Center. For all the details, see: http://baltimorecomiccon.com/about/hotels/

Contact Information

Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con:

press@baltimorecomiccon.com - for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution
promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com - for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications
registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com - for inquiries about submitted registrations
harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com- for the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet
general@baltimorecomiccon.com- for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries

About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 16th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 10 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

-----------------------


2015 Primetime Emmy Award Winners; "Game of Thrones" Rules

The Emmy Award (or simply “Emmy”) recognizes excellence in the television industry.  It corresponds to the Academy Award (for film), the Grammy Award (for music), and the Tony Award (for theatre).  The best known Emmy Awards are the Primetime Emmys and Daytime Emmys.  However, Emmys are awarded for sports programming, for national news and documentaries, and for regional and international television, among others.

The 2015 Primetime Emmy Award winners were announced on Sunday, September 20, 2015.  Andy Samberg hosted the 2015 Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony that was broadcast FOX, live from the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

2015 / 67th Emmy Award winners:

OUTSTANDING DRAMA SERIES
“Game of Thrones”

OUTSTANDING COMEDY SERIES
“Veep”

LEAD ACTOR, DRAMA
Jon Hamm, “Mad Men”

LEAD ACTRESS, DRAMA
Viola Davis, “How to Get Away with Murder”

LEAD ACTOR, LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE
Richard Jenkins, “Olive Kitteridge”

LEAD ACTRESS, LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE
Frances McDormand, “Olive Kitteridge”

LEAD ACTOR, COMEDY
Jeffrey Tambor, “Transparent”

LEAD ACTRESS, COMEDY
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, “Veep”

REALITY-COMPETITION SERIES
“The Voice”

VARIETY SERIES
“The Daily Show With Jon Stewart”

LIMITED SERIES
“Olive Kitteridge”

VARIETY SKETCH SERIES
“Inside Amy Schumer”

TELEVISION MOVIE
“Bessie”

SUPPORTING ACTOR, DRAMA
Peter Dinklage, “Game Of Thrones”

SUPPORTING ACTRESS, DRAMA
Uzo Aduba, “Orange Is The New Black”

GUEST ACTOR, DRAMA
Reg E. Cathey, “House of Cards”

GUEST ACTRESS, DRAMA
Margo Martindale, “The Americans”

SUPPORTING ACTOR, COMEDY
Tony Hale, “Veep”

SUPPORTING ACTRESS, COMEDY
Allison Janney, “Mom”

GUEST ACTOR, COMEDY
Bradley Whitford, “Transparent”

GUEST ACTRESS, COMEDY
Joan Cusack, “Shameless”

SUPPORTING ACTOR, LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE
Bill Murray, “Olive Kitteridge”

SUPPORTING ACTRESS, LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE
Regina King, “American Crime”

WRITING FOR A DRAMA SERIES
David Benioff and D.B. Weiss for Game Of Thrones, “Mother’s Mercy” from HBO, HBO Entertainment in association with Bighead, Littlehead, Television 360, Startling Television and Generator Productions

DIRECTING FOR A DRAMA SERIES
David Nutter for Game Of Thrones, “Mother’s Mercy” from HBO, HBO Entertainment in association with Bighead, Littlehead, Television 360, Startling Television and Generator Productions

WRITING FOR A COMEDY SERIES
Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci and Tony Roche for Veep, “Election Night” from HBO, HBO Entertainment in association with Dundee Productions

DIRECTING FOR A COMEDY SERIES
Jill Soloway for Transparent, “Best New Girl” from Amazon Instant Video and Amazon Studios

WRITING FOR A LIMITED SERIES, MOVIE OR DRAMATIC SPECIAL
Jane Anderson or “Olive Kitteridge” from HBO, HBO Miniseries in association with Playtone

DIRECTING FOR A LIMITED SERIES, MOVIE OR DRAMATIC SPECIAL
Lisa Cholodenko for “Olive Kitteridge” from HBO, HBO Miniseries in association with Playtone

HOST, REALITY OR REALITY-COMPETITION PROGRAM
Jane Lynch, “Hollywood Game Night”

STRUCTURED REALITY PROGRAM
“Shark Tank”

UNSTRUCTURED REALITY PROGRAM
“Deadliest Catch”

WRITING FOR A VARIETY SERIES
“The Daily Show With Jon Stewart”

DIRECTING FOR A VARIETY SERIES
Chuck O’Neil for The Daily Show With Jon Stewart, “Show 20103″ from Comedy Central, Central Productions

SPECIAL CLASS PROGRAM
“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street”

DOCUMENTARY OR NONFICTION SPECIAL
“Going Clear: Scientology And The Prison Of Belief”

DOCUMENTARY OR NONFICTION SERIES
“The Jinx: The Life And Deaths Of Robert Durst”

INFORMATIONAL SERIES OR SPECIAL
“Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown”

EXCEPTIONAL MERIT IN DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKING
“Citizenfour”

A 2015 Creative Arts Emmy Award winners list is here.

---------------------


Sunday, September 20, 2015

Starz Gains U.S. Rights to WWII-Era Drama, "Close to the Enemy"

Starz to Co-Produce Writer/Director Stephen Poliakoff’s “Close to the Enemy” Original Miniseries

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Starz today announced it has secured, via a deal with international distributor all3media International, the exclusive U.S. premium rights to, and will co-produce the six-episode original miniseries “Close to the Enemy,” written and directed by the multi-award winning Stephen Poliakoff (STARZ Original miniseries, "Dancing on the Edge," Glorious 39, The Lost Prince) with Helen Flint (Longford, The Take, Galavant), Hilary Bevan Jones (Roald Dahl's Esio Trot, The Escape Artist) and Colin Callender (Wolf Hall) serving as Executive Producers. “Close To the Enemy” is a Little Island production produced in association with Endor Productions and Playground Entertainment and distributed by all3media International. “Close to the Enemy” is expected to premiere on BBC Two in the UK and STARZ in the U.S. in 2016.

    “We are excited to team up with Little Island, Endor Productions, Playground Entertainment, all3media International and Stephen Poliakoff again as he brings this post-World War II thriller to life in a way our viewers will find extremely compelling”

“We are excited to team up with Little Island, Endor Productions, Playground Entertainment, all3media International and Stephen Poliakoff again as he brings this post-World War II thriller to life in a way our viewers will find extremely compelling,” said Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director of Starz.

Stephen Driscoll, SVP Sales, all3media International commented, “We are delighted to announce another significant collaboration with Starz who will release ‘Close to the Enemy’ to their U.S. subscribers in 2016. Stephen Poliakoff and this wonderful cast of actors are creating a thrilling mini-series that will enthrall audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. We look forward to announcing further international deals in the very near future.”

Polly Hill, Controller BBC Drama Commissioning, also added, “It is wonderful to welcome Starz and Playground on board. The combination of such talented producers with first-rate track records will ensure audiences from around the globe can enjoy Poliakoff's truly original and compelling new drama series.”

Jim Sturgess (One Day) heads an all-star cast including Freddie Highmore (Bates Motel), Charlotte Riley (Peaky Blinders), Phoebe Fox (Woman in Black 2), August Diehl (Inglourious Basterds), Robert Glenister (Hustle), Alfie Allen (Game of Thrones), Charity Wakefield (Wolf Hall), with Lindsay Duncan (Birdman), Angela Bassett (American Horror Story), and Alfred Molina (Love is Strange).

Set in a bomb-damaged London hotel during the aftermath of World War II, “Close to the Enemy” is a thriller that follows British intelligence officer Captain Callum Ferguson (Sturgess), whose last task for the Army is to ensure that a captured German scientist, Dieter (Diehl), hands over secret cutting-edge military technology crucial to national security. Callum employs unorthodox methods in his attempt to convince Dieter to work for the British, developing a friendship with him, which is soon threatened as the German’s involvement in the Nazi war machine may be more than it initially seems.

In the tradition of Stephen Poliakoff’s other work, Callum encounters a number of other characters whose stories all intertwine. These characters include Victor (Highmore), Callum’s younger brother, struggling to deal with psychological trauma caused by his experiences on the frontlines; Harold (Molina), a Foreign Office official who reveals some startling truths about the outbreak of the war; Rachel (Riley), an enchanting Anglophile American engaged to his best friend; Eva (Bassett), a confident American jazz singer who breathes life into the old hotel with her music; and Kathy (Fox), a tough, young woman working for the War Crimes Unit, fighting to bring war criminals who escaped prosecution to justice. All of these characters are trying to rebuild and move forward with their lives in the aftermath of a war that scarred them all so deeply.

Starz acquired U.S. network pay TV and SVOD rights from all3media international who will distribute the series worldwide.


About Starz
Starz (NASDAQ: STRZA, STRZB) is a leading integrated global media and entertainment company with operating units that provide premium subscription video programming on domestic U.S. pay television channels (Starz Networks), global content distribution (Starz Distribution) and animated television and movie production (Starz Animation), www.starz.com.

Starz Networks is a leading provider of premium subscription video programming through the flagship STARZ® and ENCORE® pay TV networks which showcase premium original programming and movies to U.S. multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. As of June 30, 2015, STARZ and ENCORE serve a combined 56.8 million subscribers, including 23.5 million at STARZ, and 33.3 million at ENCORE, making them the largest pair of premium flagship channels in the U.S. STARZ® and ENCORE®, along with Starz Networks’ third network MOVIEPLEX®, air more than 1,000 movies monthly across 17 linear networks, complemented by On Demand and authenticated online offerings through STARZ PLAY, ENCORE PLAY, and MOVIEPLEX PLAY. Starz Distribution develops, produces and acquires entertainment content, distributing it to consumers globally on DVD, digital formats and traditional television. Starz Distribution’s home video, digital media and worldwide distribution business units distribute original programming content produced by Starz, as well as entertainment content for itself and third parties. Starz Animation produces animated TV and movie content for studios, networks, distributors and audiences worldwide.

About Playground
Playground was founded in 2012 by Callender, and is committed to producing high quality drama for the screen and the stage bringing together the finest US and UK talent from the worlds of theatre, film, and television. Callender won his first Emmy for the television adaptation of the RSC’s The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby and, as president of HBO Films, was responsible for an unprecedented award-winning slate of movies and mini-series. Playground recently received 8 Emmy nominations for its coproduction with Company Pictures, the six-part miniseries adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall starring Mark Rylance, Damian Lewis, Claire Foy and Jonathan Pryce for BBC and Masterpiece. It also partnered with Charlie Pattinson’s New Pictures on The Missing the eight part thriller for the BBC and Starz. Playground recently wrapped production on the television adaptation of Ronald Harwood’s The Dresser starring Anthony Hopkins and Ian McKellen and directed by Richard Eyre for the BBC and Starz.

About all3media International
all3media International distributes popular, award-winning TV programmes to over 1,000 broadcasters and media platforms around the world.

The company has been celebrated for producing, marketing and distributing quality, ground-breaking and pioneering shows to global audiences – consistently topping the Broadcast and Televisual annual Indies Surveys and we have been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of our growth – twice.

Our catalogue contains over 7,000 hours of content across all genres, with a focus on drama, comedy, factual, entertainment and formats. As well as Britain’s top-selling series Midsomer Murders, our lead dramas include The Missing, Indian Summers, Foyle’s War, Skins, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and Hinterland. Factual, entertainment and format bestsellers include Gogglebox, Undercover Boss, The Gadget Show, The Cube, The Only Way is Essex and The Million Second Quiz.

As part of the UK’s leading multi-label studio we partner with UK and international producers – including our own studios – in developing, financing and delivering content and formats.

---------------


Saturday, September 19, 2015

Jet City Comic Show 2015 Opens on Halloween in Tacoma, WA

JET CITY COMIC SHOW SCREAMS BACK INTO TACOMA ON HALLOWEEN WEEKEND
Comic Creators, Actors, Authors, Cosplayers and Fans All Come Together at the Tacoma Convention Center.

Back for its sixth year, Jet City Comic Show continues to grow with the city of Tacoma, Washington as it expands to two-days (October 31 – November 1, 2015). With over 100 Exhibitors and more than 100 Creators, Jet City Comic Show brings the wonderful world of comic books and sci-fi to life with fan favorite creators, authors and actors.

“We’re incredibly excited about the expansion to two-days,” says co-promoter Brian Meredith. “This growth was only made possible with the local community embracing the Jet City Comic Show.”

Being on Halloween weekend, Jet City Comic Show has added Trick-or-Treating into Saturday’s programing at the show. What better way to experience Halloween than with the super heroes and star wars cosplayers. Candy abounds from vendors and even ree comics (thanks to Comics4Kids). Bring the whole family, kids 10 and under are free with adults, to round out your 2015 Halloween experience.

Featured Comic Guests: Jose Marzan Jr (Superman, Y: The Last Man), Bob McLeod (Batman, Spider-Man), Nancy A Collins (Swamp Thing), Clayton Crain (Ghost Rider), animator Michel Gagné (The Iron Giant, Story of Rex) and Many More!

Featured Actors: Vernon Wells (Mad Max 2, Innerspace, Commando, Power Rangers), Michael Berryman (The Hills Have Eyes, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest), Linnea Quigley (The Return of the Living Dead, A Nightmare on Elm Street 4)

Jet City Comic Show features more than just comic book creators and actors but some of the finest Award-Winning Science Fiction writers around in Terry Brooks (Shannara series), Robin Hobbs (The Farseer Trilogy), Brian Herbert (Dune) and even more thanks to Amazon’s 47North.

“After the last two years working with Amazon’s publishing division (Jet City Comics & 47North),” says co-promoter James Taylor. “We’ve seen a huge interest in having Sci-Fi Authors at the show so we’re incredibly excited to add many amazingly talented writers.”

Get autographs from your favorite, or newly discovered, writers/artists of top selling comic books. Discover the source material for blockbuster movies. Sketches from top artists or discover a unique and hard to find comic book.

Both days include Gaming, Q&A’s with guests, panels on working as an writer/artist, costume contests, after parties, original artwork, get your photo taken with Superheroes or Stormtroopers for charity.

Jet City Comic Show is dedicated to creating a fun, family-friendly experience for fans, vendors and guests to celebrate their passion for comic books and related pop culture.

Tickets Are Available for Purchase at www.jetcitycomicshow.com and Retail Outlets:
Atomic Comics - 4020 S Steele St, Tacoma, WA 98409

Comics Adventure - 455 Portland Ave, Gladstone, OR 97027 (coming soon!)

Destiny City Comics - 218 St. Helens Ave in Tacoma, WA

Everett Comics - 2831 Wetmore Ave, Everett, WA 98201

Fantasium Comics & Games - 1500 S 336th St #12, Federal Way, WA 98003

Subspace Comics - 3333 184th St SW, Lynnwood, WA 98037

TerraCrux Games - 760 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402

$10 for a One-Day Pass and $18 for a Two-Day Pass ($20 at the doors) with Kids 10 and Under are Free w/ adult purchase. Pre-purchased tickets enter you into a drawing for a Kindle Fire HD, thanks to sponsor Jet City Comics!


About Jet City Comic Show
The Jet City Comic Show was founded by James Taylor, an accomplished artist and publisher of Rorschach Entertainment, and Brian Meredith, co-founder of Emerald City ComiCon. JCCS is a family friendly, back to basics comic book convention, focusing on comic books and their creators. For information, contact the organizers at info@jetcitycomicshow.com or visit jetcitycomicshow.com.

-----------------