Tag: Comikaze

We Recap Comikaze 2015’s ‘Spark Your Creativity’ Panel

by Kari Lane

Have you ever had an idea for a project but just did not know where to start? Has not knowing how to proceed stopped you from working on creative projects? Then the ‘Spark Your Creativity’ panel at Comikaze is just for you. Here is a recap on the helpful and informative panel that was lead by accomplished female creators. Do not worry guys, this is for you as well.

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What made you a creator?

Emily Blake – She was tired of writing and having it go into the void, so she recommended making projects yourself.
Jenna Busch – She was tired of not being able to say the things she wanted to about feminism.
America Young – She was tired of seeing so much talent around her that was not working and decided “…let’s start making stuff.”
Miley Yamamoto – Added that for her, it was the diversity angle. There are so many roles for Asians that are all unnamed characters such as Nurse #1.

Tips to getting started.

Holly Payne – “…find your audience and target them.” You want to build a community because they will be the ones who support your project. Make sure to use social media. She concluded with saying, “Dedicate yourself completely and fully and to surround yourself with like-minded people.”
Jenna Busch – Gave the hard but important advice of, “Grow a thick skin.” She went on to say that if you have a vision to stick with it and she jokingly, but at the same time, seriously said, “Don’t read the comments.”
Melanie Recker – Find out what makes you tick and be true to what matters to you. Finding out what is most important to you can spark your creativity.
Emily Blake – Collaboration. She went on to say that if you don’t know about everything find others and work together. “Surround yourself with people who know what to do.” For example, if you do not know how to work a camera, you find a cinematographer.
Miley Yamamoto – Added that projects like the 48 Hour Film Festival are great because you can join a team and learn by hands on experience. If you want to do hosting, just start filming and upload to YouTube.
America Young – You will be there at the beginning, middle and end so you must love what you are working on.
Stephanie Pressman – Your first project doesn’t have to be good and then you will get better.
Jenna Busch – Don’t stare at a blank page. You can even just start writing a grocery list. Action leads to more action.
Holly Payne – First thing every morning write for 10 minutes. Just like you have to exercise your body, you need to exercise your mind.
Melanie Recker – Find a designer. Make friends with someone who will be able to communicate your vision.

Resources

Jenna Busch – Work on your twitter account to develop a social media presence. She added that she has gotten jobs through Twitter. Look at the work you like and why you like it, then communicate through twitter to ask questions.
Holly Payne – We have broader access than ever before. Find your audience and reach out to them. Communicate.
Kristen Nedopak – Get out in the world. We are always online and often stay in our own little space. Find people who do what you want and connect with them.
Miley Yamamoto – Google is your friend. You can find images to convey what you’re thinking. Do your homework. Those images can help inspire your team.
Heidi Cox – Bring on people who can add to your ideas.
Holly Payne – Make sure what you do is legal. With licensed products you have to check. Be careful not to steal ideas. Do your homework.
Stephanie Pressman – The companies that own those licensed products can sometimes help so make sure to do your homework.
Jenna Busch – Always worth asking.

Q&A

Was there ever a time you lost confidence in your work and what did you do about it?

Jenna Busch – Became involved in Gamergate when she started her project and received death threats. Then she read Felicia Day’s post about never giving up. Jenna suggested to look at what the project means to you, step away, and take a break. “If it feels like it’s time to give it up, you’ll know.”
Heidi Cox – Delete bad comments. If you have something to say, say it! If no one sees it, who cares? You got it out there.
America Young – People need to earn their opinion. If some troll with no credibility says something, ignore it. However, sometimes they may be right. If someone you respect gives you advice then you should listen to it.
Melanie Recker – Only listen to the really close people in your life.
Miley Yamamoto – Had a scary experience and it’s hard when you are threatened. It took her a long time to recover but she feels stronger now. Use a PO Box!

Copyright

Look into it because it could be public domain.
You cannot sell it if it is licensed but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it.
Do your research.
See if you can get an option. Ask because you never know. If you are passionate about a project, you can possibly get the rights for next to nothing. For example, Stephen King has sold the rights to some of his projects for only $1.

Resources

msinthebiz.com
Chicks Who Script (podcast)
onlinefilmschoolbootcamp.com
fiverr.com
tweepy.org
SAG Indie (free workshops once a month)

I hope the advice above inspires you. Also, all of the panelists encouraged communication with them. They all want to help you so you do not have to go through what they have. Reach out, make friends and start creating!

High School Can Really Take A Bite Out Of You

by Kari Lane

Zombies are definitely still trending. So it is a little tricky for new content to stand out. A new independent zombie movie called, Fairfield, had their world premiere at Comikaze and presented a fun addition to the zombie genre. They explained it as The Breakfast Club meets 28 Days Later. It does have that vibe as much of the movie is spent in a school library with kids being real kids. It is somewhat similar to Pontypool (if you haven’t seen that film, go watch it!) where there are zombies, but it is mostly about the human drama. The writer comes from a playwriting background and the film does have a theater/play feel to it — same as Pontypool. Everyone who worked on the film loves zombie movies and horror and it shows.

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The film cost $50,000 to make, one third of which was crowd-funded, while the rest was provided by a private investor. It took them just 14 days to shoot with one pick-up day. They filmed at a school in Philadelphia during the summer. One of their biggest challenges was that halfway through filming, the lead actor hurt his knee and could not walk. There was originally going to be a fight scene so they had to rewrite the script. The filmmakers, however, felt good things came out of that change.

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The film is a stand-alone, but hopefully it will be a stepping stone for more to come. They are still working on distribution and hopefully will have more screenings soon. Follow them on Twitter and Facebook to find out more. If you enjoy independent films, zombie movies, The Breakfast Club, or quirky dramedies, check out Fairfield!

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Comikaze 2014: Stan Lee, POW! Entertainment & F84 Games Team Up To Present ‘Hero Command’

by Josh Jackson

At Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, you can pretty much do whatever you want when you have a convention named after you, so it’s fitting that the man himself took the stage to unveil his latest project.

Hero Command, a free to play mobile game that takes us into the world of super heroes, will give us the option between three characters to choose from. Jumping into the tights of either Captain Steamhammer, The Twins, or Seer, each hero will be tasked with taking down their arch nemesis, with unique abilities that have cooldown periods to prevent spamming. Is there a way to access those powers quicker? If only there was a way to exchange currency for the chance to use more attacks. Hmm…

New heroes, missions and worlds are scheduled to be periodically released after the game’s initial launch for iOS and Android devices, with a public beta that can be signed up for by emailing info@floor84studio.com. Are any true believers out there planning on heading to the app store to pick this up? Let us know!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8ukTT4pTd0

Comikaze 2014: ‘Dragon Ball Z: The Fall Of Men’ Proves We Should Send Our Anime Adaptations To France

by Josh Jackson

Finally, it seems like we could end up with the live action Dragon Ball Z film that we deserve, but it’s not coming from 20th Century Fox.

Dragon Ball Z: The Fall of Men is a passion project from filmmakers Yohan Faure and Vianney Griffon, taking place in an alternate timeline where Cell has brought the Earth to the brink of destruction. Aiming to create a world without Goku or Vegeta to protect it, Cell is now systematically taking out the remaining Z Fighters, leaving Trunks as the planet’s final hope.

When you consider that the film is low budget by nature, the special effects are impressive! Seeing the way that the world was set up, the path of destruction Cell has left in his wake, and the desperation that the brief trailer sets up, and it’s clear that even with little to work with in the way of funds, these guys just get it. At the very least, the trailer manages to resemble DBZ more closely in a few short minutes compared to the entirety of Dragon Ball Evolution.

That’s not to say some liberties weren’t taken. With the intention of making a standalone version of what they thought a post Goku world would look like, the creators gave most of the characters a more realistic look, (so don’t go expecting purple and blue hair). Even Cell got a change in the looks department, taking bits and pieces from his three main forms to create a frightening, new version.

Excited yet? Check out the teaser trailer below, and get hyped like we have! If you want to show your support, head over to the team’s Indiegogo page and drop a couple of bucks. The whole world is at stake!

Comikaze 2014: Random Encounters Blend Video Games With Musicals!

by Josh Jackson

Musicals. Video games. Unless you’re breaking world records on Disney Sing It like I’ve been known to do, then you wouldn’t think the two would go hand in hand. Attempting to right this wrong, a YouTube group that goes by the name of Random Encounters is looking to change that perception.

Covering a variety of games and subjects ranging from Resident Evil to Pokemon and even Godzilla, chances are if you have something you nerd out over when it comes to gaming, these guys and gals have probably covered it. The videos even have easter eggs for those eagle eyed viewers out there. Can you spot The Beard?

One of my favorites that were screened at Comikaze was the video for Hyrule Warriors, which can be seen below. If you like what you see, make sure to subscribe to their channel and let them know what you’d like to see next! That is, if you have time between all of the holiday gaming.

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Is Almost Here, And Here’s What We’re Looking Forward To!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Stan Lee’s Comikaze is finally right around the corner (better get those tickets quickly, it’s TOMORROW)! A myriad of Geekscape writers will be in attendance at the expo, and of course we couldn’t be more excited to hang out with you at the Geekscape Booth (that’d be Booth #1110)!

As the 3-day event has something for all sorts of different tastes, we thought that we’d make a list of our own personal highlights from the schedule! Here are the panels that each of us are looking forward to at next weekend’s Comikaze 2014!

If you’re attending the expo, be sure to visit us at Booth #1110, where we’ll have tons of shirts available (including the awesome new baseball t’s) and also an EXCLUSIVE print celebrating the return on Jonathan’s Own Super Action Man. We’ll be there all weekend! Now read on!

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Kelsie Hernandez

It’s that Comikaze time of year again! And with each Comikaze, we get to see more awesome guests and more awesome panels to get excited for! Here are some of the panels that I’m looking forward to.

On Saturday morning, the iconic Adam West will be on the Hot Topic main stage to talk all things Batman, and help celebrate Batman’s 75th Anniversary! (10:30am – Hot Topic Main Stage)

Later on in the afternoon, Kevin Smith and Ralph Garman are bringing Hollywood Babble-On Smodcast live to Comikaze for Fatman on Batman: A tribute to Batman ’66! (1:30pm – Room 408AB)

Another one I’m looking forward to is Constantine: An Introduction, this gives Comikaze attendees a chance to meet the creators and get a sneak peak into the new series. (3:00pm – Hot Topic Main Stage)

On Sunday morning, there’s a spotlight panel on Jewel Staite, of Firefly and Stargate. (10:30am – Hot Topic Main Stage.

And shortly after, I might try to see the Comikaze Guest of Honor panel with John Barrowman, the star of Doctor Who, Arrow, Torchwood and so much more. (11:30am – 304ABC)

Juan Carlos Marquez

With Comikazee fast approaching, I find myself conflicted in trying to schedule my weekend in order to get in as much coverage as humanly possible. Right off the bat, it seems like the Hot Topic Main Stage will be the place to hang around all day Saturday–with the one and only Adam West kicking things off, followed by Rob Liefeld, and the folks behind NBC’s Constantine! Aside from the Main Stage action, I plan on checking out the Golden Age of Gaming panel in Room 301B and the Original Intellivision Game Designers Panel in Room 303AB. Of course, there’s no way I can miss our fearless leader in Geekscape’s Panel this Friday in Room 306AB at 6 P.M.

And since you lovely people will be there, stop by the Geekscape booth (#1110) and snag yourself some sweet Geekscape T-shirts and get an EXCLUSIVE Super Action Man print!

Jake Lopez

Comikaze is back and what better way to spend your Halloween then at the convention center celebrating all things geek! For those of you searching for a convention without the hassle or enormity of SDCC, Comikaze looks like the place to go. Honestly, looking over the programming schedule makes this year seem like one of the most laid-back stress-free conventions I’ve seen. And it’s not like there’s any shortage f sights to see. On Friday, panelists will screen a Batman Fan Film, “The Great Mistake of Dr. Miles”, which is of course followed by a Q&A with the creators in room 404AB at 4:00 PM. Afterwards, you should go check out Geekscape Live! in 306AB at 6:00 PM. *nudge nudge*

Saturday, I plan on hitting the sneak preview of the documentary “Showrunners: The Art of Running a TV Show”. I’m sure to find interviews with the likes of Damon Lindelof and Joss Whedon regarding television interesting. Afterward, I’m hoping to make it to the Dragon Ball Z – The Fall of Men panel in 304 ABC (1:00 PM). If you don’t know already, this particular DBZ installment is fan made and it looks fantastic. If for some reason I can’t make it to that, I plan at being in room 308AB at 1:30 PM for Spider-Man: The Animated Series 20th Anniversary. Need I say more?

On Sunday, one of the bigger panels will be taking place in 406AB at 10:00 AM with an early screening of “Gotham” episode 107. The screening is followed up by Executive Producer Danny Cannon.

I only wish I had more time to see some of the events Comikaze has to offer! The schedule is packed!

Derek Kraneveldt

I am so, so sad that I won’t be attending Comikaze this year. Last year’s convention weekend was by far one of the highlights of my year, both because of the chance to see all of my Geekscape friends and colleagues once more, but also because everything that Comikaze had to offer was beyond stellar.

This year, the guests are even better, the panel schedule has grown exponentially, and Geekscape is going live on the show floor. I’m almost debating jumping on a plane tomorrow and heading down, and here’s what I would be most interested in seeing:

Friday:

4:00 – 404AB – (BATMAN FAN FILM) THE GREAT MISTAKE OF DR. MILES

See the convention premier of 1960’s Batman fan film “The Great Mistake of Dr. Miles”, followed by Q&A and discussion with the cast and crew. The panel will conclude with a special announcement about the future of the project.

5:00 – 404AB – THE KAIJU KINGDOM LIVE PODCAST! – GODZILLA’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY/GAMERA’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Join a discussion about Godzilla 60th Anniversary and Gamera’s 50th Anniversary.

6:00 – 306AB – GEEKSCAPE LIVE! WITH SPECIAL GUESTS!

It’s freaking Geekscape, but LIVE. How the hell could I not show up to this?

Saturday:

9:00 – Hot Topic Main Stage – UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH STAN LEE, POWERED BY WEEV

Get intimate with Stan Lee and learn about all of the new projects he’s working on at POW! Entertainment.

10:30 – Hot Topic Main Stage – SPOTLIGHT: ADAM WEST

TV’s most prolific Batman joins us to talk all things Batman, and help celebrate Batman’s 75th Anniversary!

1:30 – 308AB – SPIDER-MAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Spider-Man: The Animated Series introduced a whole generation to the famous web-slinger in the first of his adventures for TV that captured the true spirit of the original comic book.

2:30 – 308AB – RANDOM ENCOUNTERS’ VIDEO GAME MUSICALS

Watch your favorite games and series become Broadway show-stoppers, from an Arkham Asylum rock-opera to a Tim Burton-style Pac-Man musical! WARNING: This show contains catchy songs, nerdy humor and the dreaded Marshmallow Zone. Singalongs are welcome.

4:30 – Screening Room – THE ROOM

Join film-creator Tommy Wiseau at a special screening of his cult classic film!

Sunday

10:00 – 308AB – PUBLICIZING YOUR PROJECT

You’ve got a new comic, a new webseries, a new novel, a new TV show or movie? That’s great. But pretty meaningless if you and your friends are the only ones who know about it. How do you get the word out? Facebook and webpage, sure. That’s what everyone’s doing. What can you do to cut through the clutter and get your stuff actually seen, actually talked about, actually out there so people can see it, read it, watch it, buy it? People who have been getting projects seen dating back to “Star Wars” will give you advice on how you can do it for your project.

12:00 – 308AB – LION FORGE COMICS & IDW PUBLISHING: DIGITAL TO PRINT AND BEYOND!

Lion Forge Comics & IDW Publishing: Digital to Print and Beyond! Lion Forge Editor-In-Chief Shannon Eric Denton discusses Lion Forge titles Airwolf vs. Knight Rider, Miami Vice, Chavo Guerrero, Rampage Jackson, Andre the Giant, Care Bears, Saved By The Bell, Saber Riders & the Star Sheriffs, Punky Brewster and more! Join Shannon and the Lion Forge creative teams as they discuss these properties along with their recently announced print- partnership with IDW Publishing!

1:00 – 308AB – HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN NOVEL: FROM THE FIRST IDEA TO PUBLISHING AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SELL YOUR WORK TO TV AND FILM

Join the Winner Twins while they teach you how to create your own novel step by step, from building your universe to overcoming writer’s block to the different paths to publishing. The Winner Twins will be joined by bestselling author, and renowned actor, Richard Hatch, of BATTLESTAR GALACTICA fame, and Steven-Elliot Altman, author of such novels as DEPRIVERS and BATMAN: FEAR ITSELF.

I’m barely scratching the surface here. There is so much that I’d like to see at this year’s Comikaze, and that’s not even mentioning the show floor, where I’d be bound to spend far, far, far too much money on things that I love.

Also, I’m really, really going to miss Lawry’s Carvery!

Are you hitting up Comikaze this year? What are you most looking forward to? Sound out below!

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Fandom Planet 66: Captain America: The Winter Spoilers

by SaxCarr

This time, Tim and Sax record their review immediately after seeing Captain America 2: The Winter Soldier while still inside the theater!  You actually hear the boys get kicked out of the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood.  The review is full of spoilers, but you probably know them all by now anyway. In addition, Robot Cowboy presents an Audio Comics dramatization of the legendary Avengers #4, which literally thaws Captain America out after World War 2 and brings him in to present day Marvel continuity.  Tell your friends.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 42:58 — 18.8MB)

Comikaze 2013: So You Want to Get Into Special Effects?

by Kari Lane

Most conventions have “how to” panels, but you need to know more than just how to get into a business, you need to know what it takes to survive. There was such a panel at Comikaze and it focused on what it takes to work in the special effects industry.

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From Left to Right: Matt Winston, John Cherevka, Bruce D. Mitchell, Dawn Dininger, and Richard Cetrone

The panel started off going down the line and the panelists gave one word that they felt describes what you need to make it in the fx industry. John Cherevka (painter) said you need a “drive.” He went on to say, “you need to know the difference between good and bad work so that you can improve.” “No one is a natural. You learn from experience” (Cherevka).  Bruce D. Mitchell (fabricator) chose persistence. He explained that “you gotta love this because you need to be able to survive the slow times.” He added that “you need to maintain a relationship with the shops you worked at” because it is “easy to be forgotten when you first start out.” So make sure to keep people updated on what you are working on! The theme continued with Dawn Dininger (fabricator) adding “determination.” She also said the better you get along with people, the better you work with people. Matt Winston (son of Stan Winston and Co-Founder of the Stan Winston School) expanded on Dininger’s comment by saying his father’s greatest attribute was that “people loved to work with him.” When you enjoy working with your fellow co-workers, your work will be better and they will be more willing to help you out when you need it. Richard Cetrone (suit performer) concluded with “persevere” and explained how you cannot be claustrophobic in the suits/masks. You “gotta have a passion for it… gotta eat, sleep, breath what you desire.” Everyone agreed that networking is key and that you need to meet as many people as you can. All excellent advice and it can all be applied to other job fields (or life in general) as well!

Speaking of other jobs, Winston  quoted his father by stating, “If you have a fall back, you WILL fall back.” You need to do this because this is what you want to do for the rest of your life. Extremely sound advice for all artists out there. Another thing Winston pointed out was that you “need to be supportive of other people’s journeys and dreams” and if you are going to attack anyone, “attack your own dreams.” I think this is something many people do; they get caught up in being jealous of other people’s success and they try to tear them down. We need to encourage each other to succeed because if we focus negatively on someone else too much, we lose the focus our own lives.

There was a helpful/informative Q&A after the panel where attendees asked generic to extremely specific questions. One person asked about CGI and how they felt about it. Winston replied, “Don’t hate CGI. Hate that CGI is looked at as the only option.” It is unfortunate that many films have moved away from practical effects towards CGI because there is just something real and tangible when practical effects are used. Winston’s last piece of advice was “become a traditional artist as well as high tech.”  It is wonderful when the two can work together and enhance the effect! I asked the last question which was, “After working in the industry, can you watch film without critiquing/analyzing how it was done?” Winston and Dininger said “yes” but Mitchell, Cherevka and Cetrone were a strong unanimous “no.”

Check out the trailer below for a look at the Stan Winston School of Character Arts!

 

Check out this special episode of Blood and Guts which looks at the legacy of Stan Winston!

 

Bonus Blood and Guts episode focusing on Stan Winston!

 

Comikaze 2013: Anime “Kite” Gets a Live Action Adaptation

by Kari Lane

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Anime does not often translate well to live action movies/TV shows but that does not stop filmmakers from trying. The most recent adaptation will be Kite (the anime pronounces it “key tay”); an extremely violent story of an orphaned girl who becomes an assassin. At the panel, it was revealed that the movie will be a more mainstream version though they plan to keep the graphic violence. One of the film’s producers, Brian Cox, said, “There are lots of things in that anime that we couldn’t do”. He was referring to the sex and certain action scenes. However, Cox went on to say that they wanted to “stay true to the feel of the anime…the tone.” The cast and crew on the panel all seemed to be familiar with the anime and enjoyed the source material. At least they did their homework.

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From left to right: India Eisley, Callan McAuliffe, Ralph Ziman, Moises Cosio, and Brian Cox

Now how do you make animated characters seem real and fleshed out? Director, Ralph Ziman, recalled that he, “liked the script…liked the way the actors breathed life into these characters.” Ziman felt the actors made these characters feel like real people. The star of the film, India Eisley, did extensive training for three months to prep for the action sequences. She might have had an advantage being that her dad is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She mentioned he helped out a little too. She said she enjoyed training in general and she “enjoyed the weapons training more than anything”. During a Q&A, one of the audience members wondered if the petite Eisley was able to handle the stunts. The director joked that she “knocked a couple stuntmen’s teeth out”. He then went on to tell a startling tale of how Eisley jumped off a moving bus when she was not supposed to but, fortunately, it turned out all right.

Eisley mentioned how her brother was worried about her doing the film but was relieved to learn not all of the content in the anime would be included. Eisley’s trainer gave her a copy of the anime and Eisley made sure to watch it because she “wanted to be familiar with it” but she also wanted to make full use of the script. Due to the violence, this will probably be an R rated film, but Cox felt it would not be a hard R rating. The film should be finished by early December and they are looking into US distribution by Christmas.

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The film was shot during a grueling six day a week schedule in Johannesburg, South Africa. Even though the city is a bit run down, it was perfect for this film and they were able to incorporate a lot of streets and rundown areas. They mainly chose the location for monetary reasons, but once they got there, they were blown away. Cox recalled that it looks like, “Mad Max in reality.” Ziman added how the city was a melting pot of cultures and styles. Eisley pointed out that it “looks like it could be anywhere.” The film is set in a world not too dissimilar from our world today; a dystopian near future. The trailer definitely had that feel to it. The look is high contrast yet de-saturated colors. Eisley’s character wears colored wigs which radiate on the screen. One other item belonging to the character that fans might wonder about are the earrings. Yes, the earrings will be featured and they have included a back story for them.

The trailer/clips had gorgeous cinematography! The overall color scheme was dark tones, de-saturated but with some key vibrant colors (mainly her wigs). The action looked really good! The fx was bloody awesome; one particular scene involved a hand being shot. Her look is NOT like the anime at all. I felt it had more of an Alias vibe with the colored wigs. They wanted to avoid the school girl look because the actress already looks young. Ziman felt the wigs gave her more varied looks and ways to hide (she is an assassin after all). It was not a nod to French graphic novels.

Back to the violence because that is a big part of this story, Ziman mentioned the “comic book violence was definitely inspired by the anime.” Cox added that the “violence was enhanced by visual fx”. The trailer/clips showed some awesome violence and fx! I have watched and enjoyed the anime, and was impressed by the live action trailer/scenes. Why did this particular anime get chosen for a real life reboot? Cox explained it well by saying the anime “seemed like the most outrageous property and that was what was attractive about it”. Cox also said that he is generally a fan of the author’s work (Yasuomi Umetsu).

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The Professional is a successful film and Hanna did pretty well at the box office (including world wide box office numbers). Colombiana does not quite count (though there are many similarities) because she is an adult for a majority of the film. Maybe audiences enjoy the little female assassin story line. American audiences do like violence in their action movies and Kite appears ready to deliver. Will fans of the anime be disappointed yet again by another adaptation? It is hard to say. As I said, I watched the anime (I own it actually), enjoyed it, and I was rather impressed by the live action trailer so I will definitely be checking it out when it comes to theaters.

Currently there is no official web page for the film but the panel mentioned that it should be up by the end of the year. There is a Japanese site currently available (if you can read Japanese).

The film, by the way, also stars Samuel L. Jackson!

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Comikaze Expo Day 1: A First Timer’s Experience

by Shane O'Hare

If you’re new to Geekscape, or don’t pay attention to us that well, you know we are HUGE fans of the Comikaze Expo. One of our current favorite shows is Fangasm even! So when I booked a trip for Mega64’s Gamedays meetup at Disneyland and found out it landed the same weekend as Comikaze I flipped. I was finally going to be able to attend the convention!

I was wheels down in LA late Wednesday and got up the next morning ready to go! I met up with our fearless leader and the Crazy Canuck at the LA Convention Center. We setup the booth and it looked great! The new steel and table covering really made us look like professionals!

 

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Me, Derek, Georg and Jon in the new booth!

 

We snagged lunch and prepped for the radio show, heading down to the heart of LA. Hollywood Boulevard. Watching Derek slowly becoming more and more amazed the farther we traveled down the Walk of Fame was adorable. Our little Canadian was amazed by the wonders of the big city, though when approached by a man offering free Hip Hop CD’s we couldn’t stop him. He was dragged into a conversation about the in’s and out’s of independent Hip Hop. Turns out the free Hip Hop was actually $10.

We quickly left that situation and bounded into the Toadhop Network Studios. The place was amazing and seeing it from behind the webcam was great. I got to meet the entire cast of Fangasm, and got my street passes in as well! If you want to watch that episode check it out HERE!

We parted ways and went back to our respective beds. For tomorrow, the first full day of Comikaze 2013 was to be had. It was also the 2nd time I was on Public Transit and ultimately the last. The horrors I saw that day cannot be retold.

I arrived at the convention center, Press Badge in hand, and the excitement was too much for me to handle. Seeing all the cosplayers and nerds walking towards Comikaze put a giggle in my step…giggle? You get what I mean. We got the booth all ready, got our two demo reels going on the TV and waited. Soon the countdown began over the PA. 15 minutes to floor open. 10 minutes. 5. It’s always a combination of terror and excitement when the flood gates open. The hordes of fans seeking their own must have pieces of swag, the elaborate cosplayers and their props. They all are bitter sweet. Sweet that a large group of like minded individuals can congregate and share their passions with each other (Plus StreetPassing). Bitter that they will utlitamtely end up in your way at some point and getting from Row 600 to Row 800 would take 30 minutes.

What Comikaze has that most other cons I’ve gone to lack, is the genuineness of the crowd. The people attending are the real fans of the books, shows and toys they are there to see. Gone are the wannabe rockstars of SDCC, and in their place rabid, but polite fans. I pulled Derek out into the aisle and put my arms out, and I began to spin. “YOU CAN’T DO THIS AT SAN DIEGO CAN YOU DEREK?!”. I then realized I was becoming a bother when our booth neighbors all collectively gave me the grump face. I decided it was time to explore the floor!

ComiKaze Floor 1
The thick of it!

The diversity of booths and vendors at Comikaze is amazing. There are artists, film makers, comic vendors, toys, clothing and even robot makers here. It really runs the gambit and you can see the passion in everyone’s booth.

We made a wide path. I asked a booth how much their Carnage action figure was, and it turns out it was the guys from the Travel Channel show Toy Hunter! So look for us on the upcoming new season! The video game museum setup a nice area where you could play some classic games from the arcade to the N64. We rounded the outside, some more, and ran into the Build WALL-E Project guys. They had a fully functional WALL-E robot, fully articulated and down right amazing.

By the time we made our way the entire loop of the hall, a great deal of time had passed. In my possession was a brand new IDW MLP Art Print Comic and my very first ZOM! Running into Rick after all these years was a great feeling. I FINALLY GOT A ZOM!

The panel lineup for day one was fairly laxed, with the big ones coming Saturday and Sunday, so we ogled some Cosplayers a bit and returned to the booth. Our neighbors were great, the folks at Troma are basically our convention buddies and seem to always be following us!

Before I knew it, day one was coming to a close. The next day was twice as long with twice as much amazing stuff going on. So we hit up home early and got ready for more Comikaze!

Be sure to stay posted here for my coverage of Day 2 as well as the incredible Mega 64 Gamedays 2013 meetup at Disney!

Comikaze 2013: Talking ‘Miami Vice’ On The Lion Forge Panel!

by Jonathan

Here’s a clip from the Lion Forge Comics panel at the 2013 Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo in which my editor Shannon Denton and I talk a bit more about what’s coming up in our Miami Vice comic book series! Is it in continuity? What characters will be included? What’s being changed and what’s staying the same? And of course, will there be any sex? Rampage Jackson himself (who was sitting next to me during the panel) chimes in on that one!

Subscribe to the Geekscape podcast on iTunes!

And listen to the full conversation here:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:24 — 10.8MB)

Comikaze 2013: The Zombies! Everything You Wanted To Know But Were Too Alive To Ask Panel!

by Jonathan

From The Walking Dead to Left 4 Dead and World War Z to Rob Zombie,Zombies are everywhere these days (well, at least in pop culture). But could they actually make the transition from fictional monsters to fact? In this panel, we sit down with Matt Mogk, Zombie specialist and head of The Zombie Research Society, Gavin Hignight from FEARnet and Shawn Kirkham from Skybound Entertainment (The Walking Dead) to talk about the science, history and social ramifications behind our biggest undead sensations, all in the hopes of separating the zombie facts from the zombie fiction (before it’s too late)!

Subscribe to the Geekscape podcast on iTunes!

And listen to the full conversation here:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 54:12 — 62.0MB)

Comikaze 2013: The Giant Kaiju Monsters VS Men In Suits Attack Japan Panel!

by Jonathan

Everyone loves Godzilla, Power Rangers, Ultra-Man, Rodan, Kamen Rider and Giant Robots! And recently, Hollywood has gotten in on the act with Kaiju and Giant Robot films like Pacific Rim and next summer’s Godzilla film. Are these Japanese mainstays the next big thing in American pop-culture (or is it just another Hollywood trend)? I’m joined by working Hollywood professionals like F.J. DeSanto (Cyborg 009), Tommy Yune (Robotech), George Krstic (Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and Gregory Snegoff (Robotech) for an in-depth discussion on the past, present, future and Americanization of Kaiju and Japanese Men in Suit properties. These properties have long since taken over Japan. Are we next!?!

Subscribe to the Geekscape podcast on iTunes!

And listen to the full conversation here:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:39 — 59.1MB)

Comikaze: Adapting Sherlock Holmes

by Kari Lane

Why Sherlock? How did that particular detective become an icon? That was part of the focus of this panel along with looking at the different adaptations over the years. Panelist Bonnie MacBird, pointed out that Sherlock is a “classic superhero” but he has an “Achilles heel that makes him interesting”. She also mentioned that those stories remind us of a simpler time where honor was paramount, and that “the friendship with Watson makes their world come alive”. You cannot have a super hero without a villain and Sherlock’s infamous rival, “Moriarty appeals to people” explained panelist Daniel Corey. He went on to explain that in the world of Sherlock and Moriarty, one just has to find the evil and solve it, making one a hero. These characters have a singular focus, explained Corey, “the game is all there is” for them.

The panelists were asked how they were exposed to Sherlock Holmes with most of them answering that they read the books. However, panelist Sam Weller said his first exposure to the great detective was the animated Great Mouse Detective movie. I think that was also how I came to know the character, that and Young Sherlock Holmes. How did you first encounter Sherlock Holmes?

So what makes a good Sherlock adaptation? One panelist, Sax Carr, does not buy characters that are the best at everything. He wants to see the “dark side of that gift.” A few of the panelists like how the BBC’s Sherlock is a genius but has lost touch with the outside world. MacBird pointed out that the TV show House is another example of a flawed but brilliant character and, in a subtle way, is also an adaptation of Sherlock Holmes. House even has his own Watson in Wilson. MacBird also expressed how she does not like the criticism of ‘too much action’ in the Robert Downy Jr. Sherlock films because the original cannon and short stories actually do have lots of action.

The original story is always the best, but to the to wrap up the panel, the panelists were asked their favorite adaptations of Sherlock and here are their favorites: The Great Mouse Detective, Without a Clue, Sherlock Hound, Detective Comics, BBC’s Sherlock, and Jeremy Brett’s and Robert Downy Jr.’s portrayals. What is your favorite Sherlock Holmes adaptation?

Sherlock2

From Left to Right: Sax Carr, Bonnie MacBird, Sam Weller, Daniel Corey, and Tim Powers

Comikaze: Geek Girls: Sexism Within the Geek Subculture Panel

by Kari Lane

geekgirlsFrom Left to Right: Ariel Schudson, Melissa Molina, Abby Darkstar, Molly McIsaac, and Keith Zen

You have probably heard some of the recent debate about “fake geek girls” and “cosplay does not equal consent”. If you have managed to bypass these often heated arguments (mainly nasty online comment wars), the main idea is that women’s geek cred is often brought into question by male geeks and sexy cosplay outfits do not permit sexual harassment. I have read many of the articles about each of these topics and wanted to see what this panel had to say about the subjects.

Early on, panelist Melissa Molina, explained the “fake” geek girl situation as, “We have always been bullied and now we are bullying each other.” The panelists were unanimous in thinking the concept of the fake geek girl is outrageous and pointed out there are no attacks on fake geek guys. Each woman on the panel mentioned how female geeks are often interrogated on their geek cred by male geeks. They went on to discuss the question of ‘how is liking one thing fake?’ It is as if geek girls have to know everything about EVERYTHING to qualify as a geek, but it is ok to like just one geek thing! However, “Anything can qualify anyone as a geek”, explained panelist Abby Darkstar. Why are geek guys so mean towards geek girls? Panelist Molly McIsaac summed it up in a humorous way by saying, “The boys are mad that the pretty girls are invading their clubhouse.” Keith Zen, the one man on the panel, added that being a geek was, “something that used to be theirs and they don’t want to share.” Darkstar pointed out why this happens by acknowledging, “You are insecure and want to put someone else down.”

geekgirl2

Example of a geek girl being called out but totally owning her cosplay albeit on the aggressive side

Speaking of being pretty, there is a stereotype that geeky girls are not attractive. Molina asked, “Do you want us to look haggard all the time?” It was mentioned how as a geek girl you somehow cannot be pretty too; as if you could not be smart AND attractive. Why can’t women like super hero comics and like to be girly too?

Women not only want to be able to be girly, they want to be able to be sexy too without fear of harassment. Yes, you can wear that skimpy costume but be aware, be responsible and be ready to take the steps to do something about it suggested Darkstar (who was cosplaying fem Indiana Jones). One simple step is just talking to other geek girls about it. Maybe someone will be encouraged by your story or learn something from it. Now, if someone is harassing you, male or female, do not be abusive back. You need to be mature and professional. Panelist Ariel Schudson framed it well by saying, “It’s a power thing. Someone has to have power over you.” Wear the costume you want to wear but be aware that you are pretty much the “personification of a sexual fantasy” (McIsaac).

On the other hand, if you see someone wearing a sexy costume, ask them if you can take a picture. Do not be a creeper and sneak a picture of their butt or whatever and think they will not notice. A couple of the panelists mentioned how they would much rather someone ask to take a picture of their backside and they would gladly pose instead of hearing the creepy whispers behind them.

Zen was all for men and women wearing the costume they want but he pointed out that you need to know people are going to stare. There is nothing wrong with staring and taking pictures (just no creeper pictures), but that is it! Just because a guy or girl is wearing something revealing does NOT give anyone the liberty to touch them or otherwise harass them.

What can be done about this sexual harassment? The main thing is conventions MUST have a harassment policy that details what harassment is and enforce the consequences of breaking those policies. Schudson mentioned the ADA Initiative and explained how they “Wrote and encouraged adoption of policies preventing harassment of women, now used by hundreds of conferences and organizations in open tech/culture as well as science fiction, fan, gaming, and skeptic/atheist conventions.” So this is not something that just happens at geek/nerd conventions.

We all need to be good role models and proponents for change; part of that is being “more open to everything” (Schudon). Do not claim geek culture as your own and exclude others. You should be happy you have even more people with whom to share your love of geek culture. In the end, we are all fans.

Comikaze Daze: ‘Doctor Who’ Panel

by S.J. Borger
The littlest Doctor: Mylo Gosch (age 10)
The littlest Doctor: Mylo Gosch (age 10)

Led by Jessica Tseang (ComiCast!, The Comic Book Girl), with Aaron Cisterlli (president of the Time Meddlers, the largest SoCal Doctor Who Fan Club) and Eric Wallace (Eureka, Mister Terrific), the official Doctor Who 50th Anniversary panel on Friday, Nov 1st, promised not-to-be-missed guests.

However due to technical difficulties, none of the guests mentioned by Tseang at the start of the panel–Karen Gillian and Sylvester McCoy among them–could join us, either virtually or in person. To remedy the situation, Tseang called up members of the audience who were rockin’ serious Doctor cosplay and had them answer questions in character (either as the actor or the actual character). There was a Ninth Doctor, a Tenth Doctor (with a honest-to-God British accent), a Captain Jack, an Empty Child and a few eleventh doctors, including the littlest Doctor, Mylo Gosch, age 10.

Due to technical difficulties, the panel was left without a special guest--so made do by inviting up cosplayers to answer questions in character.
Due to technical difficulties, the panel was left without a special guest–so made do by inviting up cosplayers to answer questions in character.

Dr panel 2

The audience and the new additions to the panel were game to try, and a sometimes awkward, often hysterically funny panel commenced.

Join fans of the Doctor at Comikaze tomorrow, Saturday, Nov 2nd, at 9 a.m. for “The Great Time War: Who is the Best Doctor?”

The Stan Lee’s Comikaze Panels We’re Most Looking Forward To!

by GeekscapeStaff

Stan Lee’s Comikaze is finally right around the corner (better get those tickets quickly)! A myriad of Geekscape writers will be in attendance at the expo, and of course we couldn’t be more excited to hang out with you at the Geekscape Booth (that’d be Booth #610)!

As the 3-day event has something for all sorts of different tastes, we thought that we’d make a list of our own personal highlights from the schedule! Here are the panels that each of us are looking forward to at next weekend’s Comikaze 2013!

If you’re attending the expo, be sure to visit us at Booth #610, where we’ll have tons of shirts available and some freebies (and lonely Shane O’Hare would love to talk to you)! We’ll be there all weekend! Now read on!

Juan Carlos Marquez

Any sci-fi-loving kid who grew up in the 80’s knew the drill on Saturdays; you started the morning flipping between CBS, NBC, and ABC, but then you tuned in to Channel 5 (KTLA) and watched the Family Film Festival with Tom Hatten. It was during this afternoon routine in which I was introduced to the glory of Godzilla. I fell in love with way the giant Japanese lizard monster tore apart miniature cities, yet helped defend the poorly-dubbed humans from the likes of Mothra, Rodan, and Mecha Godzilla.

Sunday’s panel, ‘Giant Kaiju Monsters Vs. Men in Suits Attack Japan (And Hollywood)!’ is an absolute can’t-miss for me, especially seeing that George Krstic is going to take part in the panel discussion (as well as our very own Jonathan London). I was a huge fan of Megas XLR and I can’t wait to hear his thoughts on what appears to be the renaissance of the giant monster movie genre.

Godzilla

The panel takes place on Sunday, November 3rd at 2:30 in room 306AB! Here’s the description:

Everyone loves Godzilla, Power Rangers, Ultra-Man, Rodan, Kamen Rider and Giant Robots! And recently, Hollywood has gotten in on the act with Kaiju and Giant Robot films like Pacific Rim and next summer’s Godzilla film. Are these Japanese mainstays the next big thing in American pop-culture (or is it just another Hollywood trend)? Join a panel of working Hollywood professionals for an in-depth discussion on the past, present, future and Americanization of Kaiju and Japanese Men in Suit properties. These properties have long since taken over Japan. Are we next!?!

Participants: Jonathan London (Host of Geekscape!), F.J. DeSanto (Frank Miller’s The Spirit, Cyborg 009, Insurgent), George Krstic (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Action Pack, Megas XLR), Robert Burnett (Free Enterprise, Femme Fatales), Tommy Yune (Robotech)

S.J. Borger

I’ve never been to Comikaze before, though I’ve lived in Los Angeles for years. The panels this year look amazing (especially the panels that our own awesome, glorious leader Jonathan London* is a part of).

The panels span an eclectic and wildly interesting set of topics—I could barely decide between some of them. That being, said, I narrowed it down from ‘all of them!’ since I couldn’t seem to find a handy TARDIS or a Time Turner anywhere.

My (current, to be updated at any time) list of must-see panels:

The Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Panel: because, well, the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary special—and the mysterious ‘special guests.”  Such a tease, Comikaze, such a tease! – Friday, 4PM, Room 306AB.

The Nerdist Writer’s Panel: Comic Book Edition; I’m a fan of The Nerdist podcast and comic books, so this was basically a done deal. I hope Ben Blacker doesn’t think I’m stalking him, though, since I just realized I’m attending ALL of his panels if I can. – Saturday, 10:30AM, 304ABC.

Icon: Bruce Campbell. I shouldn’t even have to explain this. – Saturday, 1PM, Hot Topic Main Stage.

Blizzard Storytelling: From the corruption of Kerrigan to managing to (by the skin of their teeth) write in Panda Bears and Aliens as beings consistent with their world, Blizzard Entertainment is one of the foremost storytellers of our digital age.  I’m looking forward to insights from the minds behind the stories. – Saturday, 3PM, Room 306AB.

In Defense Of: A panel defending the truly ludicrous choices sometimes made in comics, gaming and film (the ones that made you cock your head and say ‘Wait, what? How? Why would you do that?’…for example, all of GI Joe: Retaliation). – Saturday, 4PM, Room 301A.

The Thrilling Adventure Hour: Enough said. Seriously, I’d watch Acker, Blacker, Paul F Tompkins, Marc Evan Jackson, Joshua Malina, Busy Philips and Mark Gagliardi read from the phone book. If they could find one, I guess. It’s not really a great saying, anymore, is it? So um…I’d watch them read from the ITunes user agreement. – Saturday, 5:30PM, Room 308AB.

That works better.

Writing Genre TV: A panel of writers from hit shows like The Walking Dead, Warehouse 13, Alphas, Justified and Once Upon a Time In Wonderland discuss what it’s like to work in genre TV. – Sunday, 3:30PM, Room 306AB.

Zombies! Everything You Wanted To Know But Were Too Alive To Ask! Zombie science, history, fiction and fact. Where else would I be on a Sunday? – Sunday, 4PM, Room 304ABC.

* I take cash or paypal, Jonathan.**

** You’ll take a pass to Comikaze is what you’ll take! – Jonathan

anyone have one of these that I can borrow?
anyone have one of these that I can borrow?

Shane O’Hare

This is my FIRST Comikaze convention. I’ve been a huge fan of the expo and organizaiton (DJing their Comic Con party didn’t have anything to with that praise :P) and have always wanted to go. This year, the planets aligned perfectly and I was able to get off work to join in on the fun!

This being my first trip to Comikaze I really want to check out the booths and the main floor, I love seeing how cons other than SDCC stack up. I also really can’t wait to get to work at our very own Geekscape booth (booth 610) as well!

The Pacific Rim (Friday, 2PM, Room 306AB) and Sharknado (Friday, 4:30, Hot Topic Main Stage) panels on day one are a must see. The Lion Forge panels (Saved By The Bell is Saturday, 11AM, Room 306AB, Knight Rider, Airwolf, Miami Vice & More on Sunday, 12PM, Room 301A) are also a must attend as all their newest books are top notch and I am super excited for all of them.

Come Sunday I find myself stuck in a conundrum. Do I stay at Comikaze or head on down to Anaheim and join the Mega 64 Boyz for their annual Gamedays meetup at Disneyland? Decisions…decisions.

Either way, I am very excited to be attending Comikaze, especially since it’s in LA! My sister better get the couch ready cause baby brudda is coming for a visit!

Kari Lane

This will be my second year attending Comikaze, and there are definitely a few panels/films that I’m really excited to see!

I’m looking forward to the Geek Girls: Sexism Within the Geek Subculture (Friday, 1:30PM, Room 301B) panel because it has been a fairly common discussion topic lately. The Adapting Sherlock Holmes (Friday, 3:30PM, Room 301B) panel sounds cool since I just recently started watching the show (yes, I’m a little behind on some shows because I generally don’t watch live TV and have to rely on Netflix.) The Dollar Baby Film Festival (Saturday, 9AM, Screening Room 411) on Saturday also sounds awesome because it will be short films based on Stephen King stories and I love good horror stories. There’s a Grimm Fairy Tales Animated Pilot (Saturday, 11:30AM, Room 308AB)I am really excited about because I saw their presentation at the Long Beach Comic Con and I’m stoked to see their final product. And, of course, Weird Al will be at Comikaze this year. I’ve seen him in concert at least three times and he never fails to entertain. 🙂 I’m also curious to see Sweethearts of the Galaxy (Sunday, 10AM, Room 304ABC) because I interviewed those two lovely ladies not so long ago and their show seems really fun. There’s also several horror panels I wouldn’t miss such as a Ghosts, Bigfoot and Beyond: Paranormal TV (Sunday, 1PM, Room 304ABC) because who doesn’t enjoy a little paranormal in their life?! And last, but not least, there will be a screening of Legend of the Red Reaper (Sunday, 2:30PM, Screening Room 411) which I have been hearing about for quite some time so I’m really looking forward to seeing it!

legend_of_the_red_reaper

Derek Kraneveldt

I absolutely cannot wait to get back down to Los Angeles and head to Comikaze! Of course I’m beyond excited to see all of my fellow writers again (and to meet some new ones too), and also participate in my very first 5K. The whole reason that I’m going down is for the expo however, and here’s what I’m most looking forward to:

It’s called Stan Lee’s Comikaze, so of course I need to meet Stan at some point. I picked up a copy of The Amazing Spider-Man #252 (first appearance of the black suit) at SDCC, and I would love to have him sign it. That being said, getting a photo with Stan the Man would literally make my life, as I’ve idolized the guy since before I could speak! He did say good morning to me at SDCC, but I need more!

I was a big fan of Pacific Rim, so as Shane said up above, the From Robots to Monsters: A Look Into Pacific Rim and Godzilla (Friday, 2PM, Room 306AB) panel is a must see for me. I’m also looking forward to the Full Time Creative on a Part Time Schedule (Friday, 2:30PM, Room 301B) discussion should be an interesting one. Between a full-time day job and my work for Geekscape, I find a hard time doing any of the creative writing that I used to love doing. Maybe this panel will offer some tips on how to find the time?

Later that day, I’ll be headed to the Making A Comic Step-By-Step (Friday, 4PM, Room 304ABC). This should go hand-in-hand with the previous panel, as it’s something that I’ve been interest in for as long as I can remember, but have simply never found the time to do. I’ll also want to check out the Fangasm: The Interns Reunite (Friday, 7PM, Hot Topic Main Stage) as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the show (which ends tonight) and I’m sure that there’ll be plenty of laughs at the panel.

All that stuff, and that’s just the first day! I’m also looking forward to:

-The Death of ‘Superman Lives’: What Happened? – (Saturday, 2PM, Room 304ABC).
–Inspector Spacetime: The Panel – (Saturday, 6PM, Room 304ABC)
-The Writer’s Journey: Breaking Into Comic Book and Hollywood Scriptwriting – (Sunday, 10AM, Room 306AB)
-Meet The Actor’s From ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ – (Sunday, 11:30AM, Room 306AB)
-So You Wanna Start A Podcast – (Sunday, 5PM, Room 308AB)

I’m sure that I’ll find even more to attend once I get to the expo, but these are the events that immediately stood out to me!

It's my mission to meet this guy.
It’s my mission to meet this guy.

Our very own Jonathan London will also be hosting (and participating in) a few of Comikaze’s most prestigious panels. You know you’ll want to be in attendance for those. The panels are:

– Icon: Edward James Olmos – (Friday, 5:30PM, Hot Topic Main Stage)

The Emmy and Golden Globe-winning, Academy Award-nominated legend talks to the Comikaze crowd about his many appearances in some of the biggest and most recognizable of film and television projects.

– Lion Forge Comics Presents: Saved By The Bell – (Saturday, 11AM, Room 306AB)

It’s time to return to Bayside High! Host Jonathan London will take you on a nostalgic look at the world of Saved by the Bell and he’s bringing along some special guests to help him out. Mr. Belding himself, Dennis Haskins, will be one board to reminisce on the iconic shows past history. Joining America’s favorite principal are writer Joelle Sellner and artist Chynna Clugston who’ll be helming Saved by the Bell’s future with an exclusive look into the new comic coming from Lion Forge Comics.

 

Participants: Jonathan London (Geekscape), Dennis Haskins (Saved By The Bell), Joelle Sellner (SBTB Comic, Jackie Chan Adventures, Teen Titans, Wonderous), Chynna Clagston (Blue Monday, Queen Bee), Adam Staffaroni (editor)

– Lion Forge Comics Presents Knight Rider, Airwolf, Miami Vice, and Much Much More! – (Sunday, 12PM, Room 301A)

Lion Forge Comics has been hard at work bringing you the best titles in comics and you have a chance to hear first-hand from its creative team about its plans for some of your favorite TV shows from the 80s and other  Lion Forge Projects. Also get an exclusive first look at our new project with writer Cullen Bunn (Sixth Gun & Deadpool). This is not your average boring publisher panel filled with press releases and boring home movies. Excitement, Adventure, Giveaways and more Surprises await you at the Lion Forge Comics panel!

 

Participants: Geoff Thorne (Leverage, Ben10), Brandon Easton (Thundercats, Shadowlaw), Jonathan London (Geekscape), David Gorden (Catalyst Prime: Accel, Catalyst Prime: Quincredible), Jason Johnson (Wetworks), Lorenzo Lizana (Rampage Jackson: Street Soldier), Carl Reed (Miami Vice)

– Giant Kaiju Monsters Vs. Men In Suits Attack Japan (And Hollywood)! – (Sunday, 2PM, Room 306AB)

Everyone loves Godzilla, Power Rangers, Ultra-Man, Rodan, Kamen Rider and Giant Robots! And recently, Hollywood has gotten in on the act with Kaiju and Giant Robot films like Pacific Rim and next summer’s Godzilla film. Are these Japanese mainstays the next big thing in American pop-culture (or is it just another Hollywood trend)? Join a panel of working Hollywood professionals for an in-depth discussion on the past, present, future and Americanization of Kaiju and Japanese Men in Suit properties. These properties have long since taken over Japan. Are we next!?!

 

Participants: Jonathan London (Host of Geekscape!), F.J. DeSanto (Frank Miller’s The Spirit, Cyborg 009, Insurgent), George Krstic (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Action Pack, Megas XLR), Robert Burnett (Free Enterprise, Femme Fatales), Tommy Yune (Robotech).

Now it’s your turn! Be sure to let us know what you’re excited to see at next week’s Comikaze! You can find the programming schedule here, and head here if you haven’t bought your tickets yet!

COMIKAZE_POW_LOGO_color (2)_0

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Partners With Diamond Distribution!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Stan Lee’s Comikaze has a new partner, and it’s definitely a big one: Diamond Comics Distributors, the world’s largest distributor of English-language comic books, graphic novels, and related pop-culture merchandise.

The alliance will focus on turbocharging the already staggering growth of the Comikaze expo, which will celebrate its third year this November. Geekscape pal and Comikaze founder / CEO Regina Carpinelli states that “My partners and I are committed to creating a unique, one-of-a-kind fan experience that will be enjoyed by all. Part of fulfilling that goal is to partner with industry giants. Diamond Comics is the one of the most precious gem in the pop culture world. We have no doubt that together we can achieve our prime objective to create one of the world’s largest, most diverse Pop Culture conventions.”

Really, it sounds like quite the partnership. I’ll be attending my first Comikaze this year (just one month to go), and I couldn’t be more excited! Take a look at the press release in full below, and let us know if you’re looking forward to the expo.

Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc., the world’s largest distributor of English-language comic books, graphic novels and related pop-culture products, announced today that it will partner with Comikaze Entertainment Inc. and Advanstar Communications in a strategic alliance that focuses on expanding the growth of Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo LA’s comic and pop culture convention.
 
To be held November 1-3, 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo promises an incredible experience for fans of comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and anime. This year’s event will feature an amazing line-up of attractions from vendors and exhibitors, interactive contests, celebrity autograph signings, screenings, renowned panel sessions and gaming tournaments.
 
Diamond is a leader in the comic book specialty market and has exclusive arrangements with all major U.S. comics’ publishers. Diamond, with its unrivaled connections in the comic industry, plans to help attract thousands of new fans to Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, making the 2013 show an event for the history books. “We enjoy and support pop culture fandom as all of its exciting forms expand rapidly around the globe,” said John Parker, Vice President, Business Development from Diamond. “Even in a highly connected and socially digital world spanning from New York to Tokyo, Dubai to Toronto, Shanghai to Sao Paolo, Mumbai to Los Angeles, fans want to personally gather to interact with their favorite characters, experience the latest story developments, cosplay and perform, and purchase related merchandise. We are thrilled with our new Comikaze Expo alliance and look forward to contributing to the growth of their innovative Los Angeles event.”
 
“My partners and I are committed to creating a unique, one-of-a-kind fan experience that will be enjoyed by all,” said Regina Carpinelli, Founder and CEO, Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo. “Part of fulfilling that goal is to partner with industry giants. Diamond Comics is the one of the most precious gem in the pop culture world. We have no doubt that together we can achieve our prime objective to create one of the world’s largest, most diverse Pop Culture conventions.”
 
“Diamond is unique in the role they play uniting comics and fans everywhere,” added Chris DeMoulin, EVP Worldwide Customer Development at Advanstar. “Truly, Diamond is a fan’s best friend.”

stan-lees-comikaze_500_500

Stan Lee Conquers The Martians At This Year’s Comikaze Expo!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: It looks as though exclusives for this year’s Comikaze Expo (November 1 – 3) are already coming down the pipeline, and this one is simply too cool to pass up.

Topps has revealed an exclusive Mars Attacks card that will debut at the convention, featuring none other than ‘The Man’ himself, Stan Lee. The image featured on the card is absolutely hilarious, and better yet, the card will be absolutely FREE.

Take a look at the limited-edition card below, and let us know if you’re headed to this year’s Comikaze! We’ll be there (of course), and we’ll definitely be picking up a few of these (though they are limited to 2500)! Prints of the fantastic art will also be available at the Topps booth, and they’ll be signed by artist Joe Jusko!

Stan_Strikes copy

Comikaze Expo Featured In New Syfy Reality Series ‘Fangasm’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: This sounds like a great watch, and some fantastic coverage for Stan Lee’s Comikaze (which we, of course, are HUGE proponents of).

This September, Syfy is set to introduce a new docu-series (is that a nicer word for a reality series?) that follows seven geeky superfans on their quest to obtain an internship with Stan Lee.

Fangasm spotlights seven very different people whose niche uber-obsessions run the gamut from comic books and collectibles to science fiction and fantasy to cosplay and live action role playing. Living together and working together at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, Los Angeles’ largest pop-culture convention, the cast must contend with each others oversized personalities and conflicting passions as they vie for a opportunities within Lee’s organization. Because when different passions come together – you get a real big bang. Fangasm debuts Tuesday, September 24 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on Syfy.

These roommates stop at nothing to prove their fan-cred to each other, debating everything from favorite superheroes, Star Wars vs. Star Trek, and even what they would do in the event of a real zombie apocalypse. And while the claws do come out, this hilarious and loveable group is ultimately bound together by a shared joy of fandom.

Over the course of the season, the eager group dives into their internships at Comikaze as it prepares for the upcoming Comikaze Expo – the comic, gaming, anime, sci-fi, fantasy horror and general pop-culture expo held each November in Los Angeles. The massive convention is a year-round business, run by Lee, Regina Carpinelli (who guides the interns as their supervisor) and Cassandra Peterson (better known as Elvira Mistress of the Dark). The pressure is on for the interns, who all have high hopes of earning an actual job with the organization. Throughout the summer, they are thrust into a myriad of assignments, both in the field and at the Comikaze Expo headquarters. They pitch comic book ideas to Lee, clean a storage space belonging to Elvira, and pull out all the stops to plan for the star-studded Comikaze launch party. Along the way they get to meet the original Mr. Sulu himself, George Takei, a truly emotional and dream moment for one of the interns.

Sounds pretty awesome, huh? Fangasm is set to premiere on September 24th on Syfy, and Comikaze 2013 hits LA on November 1st! Tickets for the convention are on sale now, and if you enter the promo code GROOVY (because Bruce Campbell WILL be in attendance), you’ll net a sweet discount. Be sure to let us know if you plan on watching Fangasm, and read more about each contestant below!

comikaze

ANDREW DUVALL – 27 – Valdosta, GA (Hometown) and Los Angeles, CA
Andrew always dreamed of being the Captain of the Starship Enterprise, but instead he works for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. When he’s not in his Star Trek uniform watching Star Trek marathons he can be found playing Magic: The Gathering. Sometimes he’ll do both at once. Andrew is self-aware in the best possible way, and loves making people laugh.

DANI SNOW – 26 – Burbank, CA
Dani was raised on the original Star Wars movies and the works of Tolkien. Reading Harry Potter and watching Lord of the Rings did not make her popular, but after high school she blossomed socially, and gravitated towards fellow geeks. She’s played a pirate at a Renaissance Pleasure Faire, and tours the convention circuit with The Damsels of Dorkington, a comedy troupe. She now spends her days doing special effects makeup on short films, performing comedy whenever she can and using her Harry Potter knowledge at her job to help identify copyrighted material online for the franchise.

KRISTEN HACKETT – 23 – New York, NY
Kristin is a single and sexy comic book fangirl living in New York City. She loves that the city she lives in is also the dwelling place of her favorite superheroes, namely Spider-Man and Nightwing. Her three passions in life are blogging geek culture, comics and fashion. With All-American good looks she is often hit on by jocks and meatheads; however, she’s only attracted to super dorky and nerdy guys. Her passion for comics and graphic novels is evidenced by her massive collection and commitment to travel the country to attend every comic convention possible, which she covers for her websites. She admits she is a hoarder when it comes to collectibles, and she was even compelled to create a giant spreadsheet for her collection of 600+ graphic novels. The obsessions are only overshadowed by her closet full of custom cosplay outfits. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Kristin enjoys designing and creating her own costumes.

MIKE REED – 22 – Ybor City District of Tampa (Hometown) and New York, NY
Mike considers himself the ultimate comic book and superhero fan. He loves all DC comics and wants to live his life like Superman. He’s an active cosplayer and founded his own group called Team Avalanche, making amazing costumes and putting on shows across Florida. Even though he’s a nerd, he has quite the charm on the ladies. By night he will go to the club with a confident swagger, and by day he will sport spandex. Though he just received an amazing promotion at his job, he’s willing to quit for the opportunity to be an intern for Stan Lee’s Comikaze.

MOLLY McISAAC – 24 – Soldotna, AK (Hometown) and Seattle, WA
Molly is determined to show the world that not all fangirls are “the comic book guy.” A self-proclaimed fashionista and cosplay queen, she blasts away nerd stereotypes by being incredibly social and fond of the nightlife. Steadfast in her feminist beliefs, Molly is often labeled a “difficult woman” or “kind of crazy,” but it’s just because she’s incredibly confident and not afraid to be loud if she doesn’t agree with someone or something. This makes dating difficult – especially since she only likes successful, professional geeks! But her social views do not mean her geeky interests fall to the wayside: she’s particularly fond of anime, comic books, cosplay, video games, and LARPing. With incredibly sharp wit, an army of fanboys, and a secret belief that she’s more intelligent than most people, Molly is a powerful force to be reckoned with.

PAUL PERKINS – 22 – Sacramento, CA
Getting this internship would be a double win for Paul. In one fell swoop he’d have a job and move out of his parent’s house. It’s every true nerd’s dream! Paul is passionate about all things comic books, sci-fi and Yu-Gi-Oh tournaments. He is a huge film buff with a massive collection of over 2,000 movies. While Paul is opinionated and outspoken, when it comes to girls he crawls right back into his shell. He lacks confidence around women, which he says is part of the reason he hasn’t had a girlfriend in over four years – that and the fact he likes to dress up as a Marvel superhero.

SALVATORE FRINGO – 25 – Amsterdam, NY
Salvatore is not what you’d call a shy geek. He’s loud and vocal about what he loves, and what he loves are superheroes. While he’s a huge fan of the heroes of the Marvel Universe, he doesn’t discriminate against any characters because of their publisher. He may not be a gifted engineering genius like his comic book idol Tony Stark, but he does teach kids how to create their own superheroes, all while he dresses like Iron Man. He thinks of himself as a new breed of geek because he’s “attractive, funny, cocky…but with a sweet side.” He’s hoping that sweet side will be sweet enough to land him his real life Pepper Potts.

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo 2013 Announced, Tickets On Sale Now!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Stan Lee’s Comikaze, the largest regional multi-media, pop culture, comic, horror and gaming convention around, is coming back for more!

2013 dates have just been announced, and whether you’ve attended dozens of conventions, or have never been to one, Comikaze is an event that you won’t want to miss. Over 45’000 people attended the event in 2012, and this year is set to bring in even more.

Save the date. This year’s expo takes place at the Los Angeles Convention Center from November 1st to 3rd. Highlights for this year include:

-Over 400 vendors and up to 100 panels
-Largest collection of Marvel movie props ever assembled, curated by Stan Lee, including never-before-seen in public items from his own personal collection
-Elvira’s unique pop-up macabre signing area, complete with art gallery and other “spooktacular” delights
-Guest appearances: LeVar Burton of “Star Trek” and “Reading Rainbow” fame, and famed anime voice actor Kirby Morrow (“Dragon Ball Z”), among many others that are soon to be announced
-Cult lifestyle brand, Tokidoki, will host a special area on the show floor, offering one-of-a-kind exclusives
-Famed special effects company Stan Winston’s Legacy Studios (“Jurassic Park,” “Avatar” and “Iron Man”) will be showcasing props
-Cosplay contest with over $5000 cash prize confirmed
​-Much much more to be announced.

Tickets are available now, and are bound to sell out fast. For the first 72-hours of availability, $45 will get you a 3-day pass, while $20 will cover a single day. Head here for more information, and here to secure your tickets!

Comikaze CEO Regina Carpinelli recently sat down with Jonathan on Geekscape 275: her episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in Comikaze, or conventions in general. Check it out here!

Are you planning to go this year? We’ll be there!

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Featured image by Heather Mairi Photography

Geekscape at Comikaze: Zombie Research Society’s Matt Mogk

by Jonathan

My friend Matt Mogk from the Zombie Research Society dropped by the Geekscape Comikaze booth this past weekend to announce a brand new initiative that he’s starting up that I think we can all get behind. Matt’s spearheading a Kickstarter campaign to get zombie legend George Romero his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! How’s that for a slam dunk? Listen up for this exclusive announcement!

Subscribe to the show on iTunes!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 8:15 — 4.9MB)

Geekscape at Comikaze: ‘Generic Girl’ Producer Victor Solis

by Jonathan

‘Generic Girl’ producer Victor Solis came by the Geekscape Comikaze booth to talk about ‘Generic Girl’ making its way to Youtube! A love letter to the positive aspects of comics, and the classic Adam West ‘Batman’ TV show, I think it’s a series worth watching! Also, Victor tells us about a brand new initiative to give Jack Kirby the recognition he deserves!

Subscribe to the show on iTunes!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 8:24 — 5.1MB)

Geekscape at Comikaze: Comic Book and TV Writer Brandon Easton

by Jonathan

Thundercats writer Brandon Easton took the time from his busy Comikaze schedule to drop by Geekscape and talk about his brand new comic book Shadowlaw. This is a much delayed visit because I’ve literally been sitting on Brandon’s new book for MONTHS! Yeah. I’m an awful friend. You can literally hear the guilt in every moment of this episode! Brandon catches us up with what’s happening with Thundercats, what Shadowlaw is all about and about this own podcast, which is perfect for aspiring writers!

Subscribe to the show on iTunes!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:33 — 5.8MB)

Geekscape at Comikaze: Intellivision’s Keith Robinson

by Jonathan

This was a lot of fun! While wandering the floor at Comikaze, I discovered an entire Intellivison booth and met original game programmer Keith Robinson, who began creating games for Intellivision back in 1981! This episode is great for old school and new school gamers alike!

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:05 — 5.9MB)

A Swift Punch To The Face! The Geekscapepod For September 10th, 2012!

by Jonathan

That’s right… you’re getting it early so I can get the word out on Bob’s Kickstarter campaign! Enjoy the second Geekscape of the day!

Robert J. Peterson joins me from CC2K Online to talk about his brand new novel The Odds, currently going through a Kickstarter campaign! The Odds sounds awesome, equal parts Big Trouble in Little China, Battle Royale and… chess! We also plug our upcoming Comikaze panel with producer Michael Uslan and actor Thomas Jane! And why not use this opportunity to discuss the problems with the Punisher movies? Does Robert think that they do anything right? Also, Jonathan explains the brand new, Muslim Green Lantern and explains why he deserves to be read! And Robert says that Keanu Reeve’s ‘Side by Side’ does a great job of exploring the discussion between film and digital!

Subscribe to the show on iTunes!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 33:36 — 20.6MB)

Fandom Planet 53: Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo with Regina Carpinelli

by SaxCarr

Tim and Sax take a look at what’s coming up at this years Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo with special guest Regina Carpinelli. We’ve got the 411 on all the guests, special events, and surprises in store for the second year of this wildly successful convention. Listen close folks as we may have some information you can’t get anywhere else. Stay tuned for information on where you can catch Tim and Sax at the Con as well as more on upcoming Fandom Planet events.

 

Also this:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:38 — 48.2MB)

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo Adds Elvira, Todd McFarlane and My Little Pony!

by Jonathan

This morning, Geekscape’s friends at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo announced the addition of business partner Cassandra Peterson, better known as Elvira Mistress of the Dark. On top of the news that Peterson will attend Comikaze exclusively as Elvira is the reveal that renowned comic creator Todd McFarlane has also been announced as a Guest of Honor. My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic voice actress Tara Strong (who also voiced Harley Quinn in Batman: Arkham City) was also announced as a guest so get all of your Brony swag ready to be signed.

Those of you guys trying to jump start your filmmaking or art careers should take note of the announcements of Elvira and Peaches Christ’s Horror Hunt film festival and The Search for the Next SuperHero and Villainous Villain art contest. Read about all of it in the below press release!

Beverly Hills, Calif., (May 2012) – Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo Presented by POW! Entertainment, the largest multimedia pop culture, comic book, horror and gaming convention in Los Angeles, has set the date for its 2nd annual show at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

After rebranding and joining forces with Stan Lee and Pow! Entertainment, Comikaze Expo has brought in a great new business  partner- Cassandra Peterson, best known for her character, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. Like Stan Lee, Cassandra Peterson was a Guest of Honor at 2011′s inaugural Comikaze Expo. Impressed by Comikaze’s success (as well as Stan Lee’s role), Peterson wanted to be involved. The Elvira creator is taking a very active role in the planning of the largest pop-culture expo in Los Angeles. Peterson and Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo plan on creating interactive content unlike any other convention.

“I’m thrilled to join forces with the great Stan Lee in becoming a part of Comikaze Expo! Finally, a first class pop culture convention in my hometown of Los Angeles! ” says Peterson. Stan Lee’s Comikaze CEO Regina Carpinelli stated, “Elvira is part of our pop culture history. Not only is Cassandra Peterson a pretty face, but she is also brings so much to the table. She’s one of the most brilliant businesswomen of our time, and has some fantastic ideas. I am so proud to call her our Partner. I like to think of her as Mistress of the Board” Peterson, who retired from appearing at Conventions as Elvira. Will be dressing as her famous character for Stan Lee’s Comikaze. “Stan Lee’s Comikaze, is the only convention in North America where you can get a photo or meet with Elvira. How cool is that?” says Carpinelli.

Peterson and the Stan Lee’s Comikaze team are launching an interactive webseries/film festival for the show taking place September 15-16th. Elvira and Peaches Christ’s Horror Hunt will be akin to American Idol-and Mystery Science Theater 3000. Aspiring and amateur filmmakers will submit their videos to Comikaze. A team of judges will evaluate them, and the top 10 will be picked-or panned by Elvira and her co-host, Peaches Christ on the hilarious new web series, Horror Hunt. A final winner will be chosen and flown out to LA. The winner will also receive a red carpet premier at the historic Vista Theater, as well as an official screening at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo. They will also be featured as a guest at Comikaze. Elvira and Peaches Christ’s Horror Hunt will revolutionize the way film festivals are seen.

In conjunction with Horror Hunt, Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo has also launched The Search for the Next SuperHero and Villainous Villain, an art contest promoting creativity and budding artists. They have also announced a partnership with Star City Games, Americas largest Magic The Gathering tournament company. Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo will hold a Magic The Gathering tournament, with over $20,000 in cash prizes. All contests and competitions are open to the general public and more info can be found at www.comikazeexpo.com

Renowned comic creator, Todd McFarlane has also been announced as a Guest of Honor. The Spawn creator will be signing books and taking part in select programming. As well as My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic voice actress Tara Strong.

Further announcements around Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo 2012 will be revealed leading up to the convention. Tickets are now available through pre-sale at $15 . Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! is also offering a unique ticket that enlists fans into the Stan Lee’s Comikaze Army. This interactive ticket includes a weekend pass, armband, dog tag, military ID for discounts on merchandise and select vendors as well as collector’s edition posters (children under 12 are free) through www.comikazeexpo.com/.

We Told You! Stan Lee Launching His Own Convention With Comikaze!

by Jonathan

Two months ago we ran a rumor that Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment was purchasing Comikaze Expo to transform into his own comic book convention and fan experience!

And you know what? WE WERE RIGHT!

Geekscape was just sent an early press release, dated to go out tomorrow morning, that makes the entire thing official:

Beverly Hills , Calif. (April 12, 2012) – Comikaze Entertainment Inc., the operator behind the largest multimedia pop culture, comic book, horror, anime and gaming convention in Greater Los Angeles, has announced a strategic partnership with world renowned pop culture icon     Stan Lee and his company POW! Entertainment.  With a staggering 40,000 attendee turnout and over 300 exhibitors during its 2011 debut, this one-of-a-kind-expo was promptly recognized and embraced by attendees, the comic convention industry, and the greater LA area.   In fact, LA Weekly named Comikaze Expo the “Best New Convention”.

Hosted at the Los Angeles Convention Center on September 15-16th 2012, ‘Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! Entertainment,’ promises a larger premier experience for attendees this year with an  amazing line-up of attractions from vendors, exciting interactive contests, tons of celebrity autograph signings, the addition of movie screenings, incredible panel sessions and all new gaming tournaments. Comikaze Expo will also join other major Stan Lee and POW! Entertainment endeavors such as the release of Lee’s dedicated digital hub “TheRealStanLee.com” with EQAL, 1821’s “Romeo & Juliet: The War” and “Stan Lee’s Kids Universe,” A2 & Archie Comics’ “Stan Lee’s Mighty Seven,” and “Stan Lee’s World of Heroes” YouTube channel with Vuguru.

“The inauguration of Comikaze Expo demonstrated the mighty appetite and eager response from fans to experience a Los Angeles-based event that provides a variety of comic book and pop culture entertainment,” said Stan Lee, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of POW! Entertainment. “We saw an opportunity to creatively take this event to new heights through our partnership and we seized it!”

Regina Carpinelli, Founder and CEO of Comikaze Entertainment Inc. commented: “Stan is one of the greatest entertainment icons of our generation and the godfather of modern comics.  We expect him to be instrumental in developing the Los Angeles Comikaze Convention. We have partnered with one of pop cultures most celebrated figures and we plan to wow not only LA but also the world.  Audiences can anticipate a highly interactive experience at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, unlike any other show. We want to change the way conventions are created and make an ultimate fan experience year round.  Besides, it’s about damn time Stan had his own convention!”

Gill Champion, CEO of POW! Entertainment, said: “Live events are an important element supporting POW!’s brand extension. Where else to better start this program then in our own back yard here in LA and with a proven venue and association.”

Further announcements around Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo 2012 will be revealed leading up to the convention. Tickets are now available through pre-sale at $12 in honor of their inaugural 2011 show prices.  Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! is also offering a unique ticket that enlists fans into the Stan Lee’s Comikaze Army. This interactive ticket includes a weekend pass, armband, dog tag, military id for discounts on merchandise and select vendors as well as collector’s edition posters(children under 12 enter for free) through www.comikazeexpo.com.

For more information, please visit comikazeexpo.com, facebook.com/comikazeexpo or twitter.com/comikazeexpo.

Now what do you think? Is “Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! Entertainment” a bit of a mouth full? Are you looking forward to it!?!