Portroids

SF Sketchfest 2012 (Jan 19 - Feb 4)!!!

2012-01-16T09:55:00.001-07:00

SF Sketchfest 2012 starts this week and I am, as I am every year, very excited to attend. There are always so many amazing shows, and if you get the chance to be in San Francisco between January 19 and February 4, please go see a show. Literally any show on the calendar. Seriously.

I'm going to cover some performances while I'm there, so watch this blog and my Twitter and Facebook page for those reviews and recommendations. In the meantime, enjoy this virtual yearbook of announced guests of SF Sketchfest 2012 who appear on portroids.com.

SF Sketchfest founders

Janet Varney

Cole Stratton

David Owen

David Cross

Eugene Mirman

Paul F. Tompkins

Dana Gould

Michael Showalter

Chris Elliott

Jason Woliner

Brett Gelman

Maria Thayer

Erinn Hayes

Kevin Pollak

Samm Levine

Michael Ian Black

Joe Lo Truglio

Ken Marino

Amy Poehler

Paul Rudd

David Wain

Brent Weinbach

Matt Besser

Matt Walsh

Busy Philipps

Andy Richter

James Urbaniak

Judy Greer

Gary Anthony Williams (w/ Phil LaMarr behind him in the picture (also at SF Sketchfest))

Cedric Yarbrough

Eddie Izzard (Matt Groening not in attendance)

Thomas Lennon

Robert Ben Garant

Kerri Kenney-Silver

Matt Mira

Brendon Walsh

Natasha Leggero

April Richardson

Andy Wood

Matt Braunger

Steve Agee

Kevin Allison

Doug Benson

Chris Hardwick

Jonah Ray

Jon Benjamin

Leo Allen

Kumail Nanjiani

Kevin Smith

Dan Harmon

Reggie Watts

Todd Barry

Rob Delaney

Mary Lynn Rajskub

Greg Behrendt

Patton Oswalt

Dave Holmes

Will Forte

Fred Willard

Jimmy Pardo

Pat Francis

Kyle Kinane

Bob Odenkirk

Oscar Nunez

Kevin O'Shea

Matt Belknap

Elliott Gould

Jen Kirkman

Go to SF Sketchfest!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

PARDCAST-A-THON 2011 Book Now Available!

2012-01-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Pardcast-A-Thon 2011 commemorative book featuring the black and white portroids taken backstage at Never Not Funny's 12-hour marathon podcast to benefit Smile Train is now available to purchase. All profits from the sale of this book are donated to Smile Train. The book also features amazing photography from the show by comedy photographer Liezl Estipona. It will only be available for a limited time, so buy your copy now!

Included in the book are portroids of Jimmy Pardo, Matt Belknap, Pat Francis, Jesse Thorn, Amy Poehler, Joe Lo Truglio, John Ross Bowie, Lisa Loeb, Rachel Quaintance, Adam Carolla, Walter Koenig, Danielle Koenig, Wayne Federman, Andy Richter, Janet Varney, Jon Hamm, Paul Gilmartin, Rebecca Corry, Todd Levin, Bil Dwyer, Eli Braden, Graham Elwood, Rich Sommer, Dave Holmes, Greg Behrendt, Caleb Bacon, Eliot Hochberg, and Dan Katz.

Below is a 15-page preview:

NEVER NOT FUNNY - PARDCAST-A-THON 2011 by Never Not Funny, Portroids, and Liezl Estipona | Make Your Own Book

Impossible Project Viewfinder Blog Spotlights Portroids

2012-01-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

For years I have been buying all my film from The Impossible Project and have been closely following their latest developments in Polaroid film. Today, they featured Portroids on their blog: Viewfinder.

I am honored to have been included, especially since it comes on the heels of the work I've been doing to help promote Never Not Funny's Pardcast-A-Thon and their efforts to raise money for the charity Smile Train.

Thanks to The Impossible Project. Check out all the amazing things they have been doing to keep film alive.

Here are a few recent photos I've taken using their film:

Jon Hamm backstage at Pardcast-A-Thon

Amy Poehler backstage at Pardcast-A-Thon

James Cromwell at Starz Denver Film Festival

Paul F. Tompkins after a show in Denver, CO

Pat Francis backstage at Pardcast-A-Thon

Adam Brody at San Diego Comic-Con International

Chris Parnell at San Diego Comic-Con International

- Rick
rick@portroids.com

Portroids from Pardcast-A-Thon 2011!

2011-12-12T09:29:00.001-07:00

Pardcast-A-Thon was amazing! You will have the chance to buy a download of the full 12 hour marathon podcast in audio and video form from pardcast.com on December 15, 2011, but until then you can bid on the original portroids taken backstage at the event. They were taken using Impossible Project's limited edition PZ600 UV+ Silver Shade Black Frame film and I think they turned out gorgeously (but I took them, so I'm biased). Judge for yourself, and bid on a batch. 100% of proceeds benefit the charity Smile Train.

All these auctions end December 17, 2011 in the morning.

Set 1 - Jimmy Pardo, Danielle Koenig, Walter Koenig, and John Ross Bowie (click link to bid)

This first set of four includes Never Not Funny host Jimmy Pardo, his wife, comedian Danielle Koenig, her father, Star Trek's Pavel Chekov actor Walter Koenig, and comedian John Ross Bowie.

Set 2 - Matt Belknap, Andy Richter, Rachel Quaintance, and Joe Lo Truglio (click link to bid)

The second set of four includes Never Not Funny co-host/producer Matt Belknap, actor/comedian/Conan sidekick Andy Richter, actress/comedian Rachel Quaintance, and from "The State"/"Wet Hot American Summer"/"Superbad"/"Role Models" actor/comedian Joe Lo Truglio.

Set 3 - Pat Francis, Amy Poehler, Todd Levin, and Rebecca Corry (click link to bid)

The third set of four includes Never Not Funny third chair Pat Francis, from "Upright Citizens Brigade"/"Wet Hot American Summer"/"Saturday Night Live"/"Parks and Recreation" actress/comedian Amy Poehler, Conan writer Todd Levin, and comedian Rebecca Corry.

Set 4 - Graham Elwood, Jesse Thorn, Dave Holmes, and Dan Katz (click link to bid)

The fourth set of four is what I call "The Gentleman Collection" and includes comedian Graham Elwood, "The Sound of Young America" radio show and podcast host Jesse Thorn, ex-MTV VJ/comedian Dave Holmes, and Never Not Funny intern "Tabasco Ears" Dan Katz.

Set 5 - Adam Carolla, Caleb Bacon, Bil Dwyer, and Eliot Hochberg (click link to bid)

The fifth set of four includes comedian/podcaster/broadcaster Adam Carolla, podcaster/Pardcast-A-Thon backstage wrangler Caleb Bacon, comedian Bil Dwyer, and from INDHD.com/Never Not Funny videographer Eliot Hochberg.

Set 6 - Lisa Loeb, Greg Behrendt, Eli Braden, and Wayne Federman (click link to bid)

The sixth set of four is "The Musician Collection" and includes singer/songwriter/children's book author Lisa Loeb, comedian/author/musician Greg Behrendt, comedian/musician Eli Braden, and comedian/actor/ukulele musician Wayne Federman.

Set 7 - Jon Hamm, Janet Varney, Rich Sommer, and Paul Gilmartin (click link to bid)

The seventh set of four includes "Mad Men"/Bridesmaids" actor Jon Hamm, SF Sketchfest co-founder/actress/comedian Janet Varney, "Mad Men" actor Rich Sommer, and "Dinner and a Movie"/"The Mental Illness Happy Hour" host comedian Paul Gilmartin.

Now's your chance, get bidding!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

PARDCAST-A-THON 2011!!!!

2011-11-15T08:46:00.001-07:00

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen of the Internet,

How are you? I am fine. It is my great pleasure to be writing you with this reminder that next week, on the day after Thanksgiving, our mutual friends from Never Not Funny will be hosting the third annual Pardcast-A-Thon to benefit the charity Smile Train. This is an event you do NOT want to miss!

Never Not Funny at SF Sketchfest

For 12 hours, beginning at 6 PM (Pacific Time) on November 25, 2011 and going until 6 AM (still Pacific Time) on November 26, 2011, hosts Jimmy Pardo, Matt Belknap, and Pat Francis will be welcoming special celebrity guests for a marathon of comedy podcasting. If you missed your chance at tickets to attend the show live at the Acme Comedy Theatre in Los Angeles, you can still watch it streaming LIVE at pardcast.com and most importantly donate to Smile Train.

Like last year, we from portroids.com will be there taking portroids of all the guests backstage. Those original portroids will be auctioned off after the event with all proceeds benefiting Smile Train. This year I will be using the Black Frame Silver Shade film from the Impossible Project for an extra cool memento (here are a couple samples of how this film looks: example 1, example 2, example 3 (see? pretty cool, right?)). We will also, once again, be creating a limited edition commemorative book featuring all the backstage portroids plus photos taken at the event by famed LA-based comedy photographer Liezl Estipona. Proceeds from the sale of the book will also all be donated to Smile Train.

While the guest list for Pardcast-A-Thon is primarily a surprise, a few names have been announced on this blog from iconvsicon.com including returning favorites Sarah Silverman, Andy Richter, and Greg Behrendt. Click through to Icon vs. Icon to see which other first-time celebrity guest has been announced.

Jimmy Pardo will be a guest on "CONAN" this Thursday (Nov 17, 2011) to promote Pardcast-A-Thon, so stay up and watch it, or record it on your DVR/TiVo/VCR and watch it. Just be sure to watch it. Also, check out the Pardo Patrol on teamcoco.com. Very funny!

Here are the portroids taken at last year's Pardcast-A-Thon (in poster form, as seen in the NNF videos hanging on the studio wall):

Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 poster: Jimmy Pardo, Matt Belknap, Pat Francis, Rob Corddry, Rich Sommer, Jesse Thorn, Sarah Silverman, Steve Agee, Danielle Fishel, Tom Dreesen, Danielle Koenig, Aimee Mann, Kevin Pollak, Andy Richter, Paul Gilmartin, Jen Kirkman, Paul F. Tompkins, Todd Levin, Graham Elwood, Richie "La Bamba" Rosenberg, Paul Rust, Tami Sagher, Doug Benson, Greg Behrendt, Mike Schmidt, Dave Holmes, Eliot Hochberg, and Dan Katz

This event is so much fun and for such a great charity. Please make sure to watch/listen to it streaming live on November 25 - 26 from 6 PM to AM and donate to Smile Train! If you're in the audience, be sure to say hi to me. See you there!!

Love,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

SDFF34: James Cromwell

2011-11-14T11:41:00.001-07:00

The 34th Starz Denver Film Festival ended yesterday and like every previous year it was an incredible amount of fun. I was able to take in over a dozen films and got to do a handful of interviews. One such interview occurred on Saturday, November 12, 2011 with actor James Cromwell. You know him from everything. He has been acting on stage and screen for over 50 years (Babe, LA Confidential, Six Feet Under, W, to name a few) and has been a vocal advocate for many causes (veganism, Black Panthers, the Occupy movement, to name a few).

He was at SDFF to receive the much-deserved Mayor's Career Achievement Award and to present two of his upcoming films: "A Year In Mooring" and "The Artist".

It was an honor to get to meet him and to be granted an interview. I also took two portroids, my favorite being the black and white one using Impossible Project's Black Frame Silver Shade film (seen below).

James Cromwell at the 34th Starz Denver Film Festival

You can listen to our interview here:

Podcast Powered By Podbean

Enjoy, and make sure to see his new films and all his past and future projects. You won't regret it.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

SDFF34: Bench Seat

2011-11-04T21:36:00.000-06:00

One of the greatest things about film festivals is the ability to see short films which you would otherwise not get a chance to see. I was particularly excited about one short film at this year's Starz Denver Film Festival because it was based on a play by my favorite playwright Neil LaBute. It is called "Bench Seat" and was directed by Anna Mastro.

Playwright / Screenwriter - Neil LaBute

The action of the play takes place in the front bench seat of a car overlooking a city. A couple with differing ideas of the course of their relationship discuss potential issues surrounding the possibility of a break-up. The filmed version takes on a life of it's own thanks to the vision of it's director, Anna Mastro, who fleshed out the narrative by making it a musical.

Director - Anna Mastro

The film is beautifully shot, excellently directed, and wonderfully acted by stars Cassie Scerbo and Kyle Riabko. With original songs by Teddy Geiger and Anna Mastro, lovely colorful choreographed musical interludes interlace refreshingly with the bench seat dialogue. Anna's drive and passion for the Hollywood musical shine through and her love of LaBute's writing make this film thoroughly enjoyable and something I recommend you see.

I had the chance to sit down with Anna Mastro today in the Filmmaker Lounge to discuss the short film. You can listen to that interview here:

Podcast Powered By Podbean

Tonight's screening was sold out, but there are still tickets available for Shorts 3: In The Name of Love tomorrow (Nov 5, 2011) at noon. Other shorts in the program include: All in All, The Bird Spider, Clear Blue, Splitscreen: A Love Story, Time and Love, and Waiting Room.

Enjoy!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

SDFF34 is almost here!

2011-10-29T17:32:00.001-06:00

The 34th Starz Denver Film Festival is less than a week away! This will be my 8th year attending the festival, and like every previous year, I am extremely excited for the film and event offerings. You should be, too.

Anton Yelchin

Wednesday, Nov 2 (2011) marks the Opening Night of SDFF with a red carpet presentation of the film "Like Crazy" by director Drake Doremus and starring Anton Yelchin (pictured in a half portroid from this year's Comic-Con), Felicity Jones, and Jennifer Lawrence. You still have a chance to buy tickets to see this potentially heartbreaking love story at the beautiful Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Take that chance.

Like Crazy - 8 PM Wed, Nov 2, 2011.

^ you should totally click this ^

Kiefer Sutherland

Thursday, Nov 3 (2011 still) is yet another Opening Night. This time for the Denver FilmCenter on Colfax. The film will be "Melancholia" and unless you already have tickets, you may be out of luck, as it is SOLD OUT! Hey, maybe there will be some tickets at the door, but I doubt it. It's like super popular. The film by filmmaker Lars von Trier stars filmstars Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Kiefer Sutherland (pictured in a portroid taken after his performance in the Broadway play "That Championship Season"), and Charlotte Rampling. Ooh la la, two Charlottes in the cast. Seriously, this movie looks cool, but don't depend on my word, click the link below, watch the trailer and lament your not having tickets (or celebrate if you do).

Melancholia - 7 PM Thu, Nov 3, 2011.

Friday, Nov 4 (2011) is when things really start rolling and the festival screenings kick into full gear. Check it out. See? Over 20 films and events, including a special presentation red carpet at Highlands Church for the documentary "Wish Me Away" about the coming out of country singer/songwriter Chely Wright (in attendance!). Tickets are still available, so you should buy some. OK?

Also on Friday (see date above) is An Evening With Judy Greer featuring a clips package of highlights from her robust career, an interview, and a presentation to her of this year's John Cassavetes Award. Pretty awesome, right? She gets a larger, centered portroid because she will be there IN PERSON!

Judy Greer

You've got some tough decisions to make for Friday, but whichever way you go (as long as you do go) you've made the right choice. Good job!

If you thought Friday was great (you were right), take a look at Saturday (Nov 5, 2011). Over 50 films and events to choose from on this day. The highlight of the schedule for Saturday is the Big Night red carpet screening of "The Descendants" starring George Clooney and directed by Alexander Payne. The film takes place in Hawaii, is based on a novel by Kuai Hart Hemmings, and also stars the aforementioned Judy Greer, Beau Bridges, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley, Robert Forster, Rob Huebel (a portroid favorite), and Matthew Lillard. See it at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House at 8 PM. I'll be there. I hope you will be, too.

Also presented on Saturday (and Sunday, Nov 5, 2011) is the documentary "Eco-Pirate: The Story of Paul Watson". If you are a fan of the Animal Planet show "Whale Wars", or of caring about the world we live in (particularly the ocean (and those who live in it)), you will not want to miss this film about the founder of the Sea Shepherds and staunch protector of ocean life. It delves into his history and what made him the man he is today. Not to be missed! You can still get tickets for two of the three screenings (that third one? SOLD OUT!).

Over the course of the following week, you will have numerous chances to see some amazing films. Check out the full schedule, read some synopsises, make some choices (even some you might not normally choose), and enjoy the exciting adventure that is the Starz Denver Film Festival.

I will have more to recommend leading up to the festival, and throughout, so look for that in the coming days.

As always, enjoy!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY Portroids from Comic-Con 2011!!

2011-08-19T14:23:00.001-06:00

As a fan of DOCTOR WHO and the Tenth Doctor's sometimes-companion Capt. Jack Harkness, I was excited to give his spin-off TORCHWOOD (an anagram for DOCTOR WHO) a try. I'm happy I did, because I love the show. Through it's first three seasons it moved from BBC Three to BBC Two to BBC One, and now in it's fourth season it's airing on the American premium channel Starz.

When I saw that Starz was bringing the cast of TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY to San Diego Comic-Con International this year, I prioritized and did everything in my power to participate in the press line. Thanks go to Starz for granting me access. I absolutely loved that they held it outdoors, as it made for some gorgeous portroids of the show's cast. See them featured here:

John Barrowman (Capt. Jack Harkness)

Eve Myles (Gwen Cooper)

Mekhi Phifer (Rex Matheson)

Alexa Havins (Esther Drummond)

Bill Pullman (Oswald Danes) (previous portroid from Starz Denver Film Festival)

TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY airs Fridays at 10 PM ET/PT on Starz!

Watch it!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

WET HOT AMERICAN SUMMER!

2011-07-27T08:51:00.002-06:00

I recently received a print I framed and hung on the wall of my home. It's something that some people will see and merely find to be a cool piece of art, while others (those in-the-know) will see and be transported to the summer of 1981, the last day of camp, the last chance for Victor Pulak to pollinate Abby Bernstein's berry bush ... and even though we ain't got money ... OH F*%K!!!

Justin Santora's piece for Gallery 1988's "Camp Firewood" show

In early 2001, some friends and I went to a theater on the east side of NYC to see a pre-distributor cut of a film by some of the guys from our favorite comedy group, The State (and their subsequent group, Stella). It was, and remains to this day, one of the funniest movies I've ever seen. That movie, as you may have guessed, was Wet Hot American Summer and since that time I've seen it more times than the bunk eight kids have seen The China Syndrome. What can I say? I love it. Only one scene, that I can recall, was cut from that version when USA Films picked it up (and you can see it in the deleted scenes on the DVD (it's the post credit reunion where they watch Silas's video)).

This is the movie my wife and I show to everyone to gauge their humor compatibility. If you don't get it, get out.

Over the years I've had the great pleasure to see/meet many of the cast from the film. A lot of them attended that first NYC screening (it was the first time I saw Michael Ian Black, waiting in line like the rest of us). At another showing I remember from the Lower East Side in maybe mid-2002, Gabriel Millman (billed as "Caped Boy", but also known as Keith Stat from Milburn, NJ) came with a then relatively unknown Jesse Eisenberg. At one Stella show, Paul Rudd and Peter Salett sat behind us (A.D. Miles was also there in the audience). I saw Amy Poehler at the UCB Theatre. Molly Shannon outside the Loews on 42nd St. Many of the cast would perform in the Fez (and Joe's Pub) Stella shows, even saw David Wain and Mr. Blue performing songs from the soundtrack. This was all pre-portroids.

The film was released theatrically 10 years ago today on July 27, 2001. I saw it multiple times with multiple people (with whomever I could get to go with me (they all loved it)) during it's theatrical run, and over the years have tried to attend screenings whenever possible. When I go to an event where I know a cast member will be present, I bring the DVD for them to sign and every one of them lights up at the sight of it. It is a movie whose humor, absurdity, and general feeling of nostalgic summer camp fun brings joy from it's mere mention. There has been renewed talk lately of a potential prequel with all the same cast. I can't image anything better than that. I want that movie inside me.
Here is the collection of portroids I've taken since October 2003 of the cast and creators of Wet Hot American Summer. Enjoy!

David Wain (co-writer and director)

Michael Showalter (co-writer and Coop, Alan Shemper)

Janeane Garofalo (Beth)

David Hyde Pierce (Henry)

Paul Rudd (Andy)

Zak Orth (J.J.)

A.D. Miles (Gary)

Ken Marino (Victor)

Joe Lo Truglio (Neil)

Michael Ian Black (McKinley)

Samm Levine (voice of Arty)

Bradley Cooper (Ben)

Peter Salett (Guitar Dude)

Judah Friedlander (Ron)

Jon Benjamin (Can of Vegetables)

Oh hey, what's up? From before.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

P.S. If you haven't seen this movie, this goes without saying ...

DOCTOR WHO Portroids from Comic-Con 2011!!!

2011-07-26T09:45:00.000-06:00

As a huge fan of DOCTOR WHO, past and particularly present, it was a real honor at this year's Comic-Con (2011) that BBC America allowed me access to the press room to take portroids (Polaroid portraits, for the uninitiated).

The show returns with new episodes on BBC America on August 27, 2011. Until then, let these few photos from SDCC give you a fix of everyone's favorite Time Lord and his companion (if you click the photos, they are bigger on the inside):

Matt Smith (The Doctor, 11th)

Karen Gillan (Amy Pond, companion)

Also in the press room was DOCTOR WHO writer and creator of BBC's BEING HUMAN, Toby Whithouse:

Toby Whithouse (writer)

Additional DOCTOR WHO related portroids from (or in connection to) Comic-Con:

From the DOCTOR WHO spin-off TORCHWOOD (now on Starz) on which he plays Capt. Jack Harkness (who originated on DOCTOR WHO), John Barrowman.

John Barrowman (in the Starz press line for TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY)

While at Comic-Con, Matt Smith and Karen Gillan took part in a live Nerdist podcast (the audio is available now on http://nerdist.com/). After the show they handed out TARDIS-wrapped burritos to the audience. Burritos are cool.

Here are portroids (taken in prior years at SF Sketchfest) of the Nerdist podcast team:

Chris Hardwick

Jonah Ray

Matt Mira

See all you DOCTOR WHO fans on August 27, 2011!!

[make your own TARDIS sound effect here]

- Rick

rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: PEE-WEE HERMAN!!!

2011-07-18T11:12:00.003-06:00

It was announced today that Pee-wee Herman will be taking the stage at Hall H during Comic-Con. Read the press release below (after the obligatory related portroid):

Pee-wee Herman!!

PEE-WEE HERMAN TAKES THE STAGE AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON® Thursday, July 21st at 1:15PM

LOS ANGELES, CA, JULY 18, 2011 – Fresh off his recent Emmy® nomination for the HBO production of his Broadway show, Pee-wee Herman will take the stage in Hall H at this week’s San Diego Comic-Con® 2011. The sure-to-be-spectacular solo panel will be in Hall H on Thursday, July 21 at 1:15pm. The three-time Emmy® nominated HBO special, THE PEE-WEE HERMAN SHOW ON BROADWAY, comes to DVD in October from Image Entertainment.

Said Pee-wee Herman of his upcoming Comic-Con® visit: "Initially I was coming to San Diego with the cast of Twilight, but we've since decided it's better for them to have two separate panels. I am SOOOO excited I can hardly breathe!"

THE PEE-WEE HERMAN SHOW ON BROADWAY reunites Paul Reubens and Marty Callner, who directed both this new television production and the 1981 HBO special “The Pee-wee Herman Show.”

The character of Pee-wee Herman is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with enormous followings on Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare. Opening to critical acclaim at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre on Nov. 11, 2010, “The Pee-wee Herman Show” is 90 minutes of subversive humor and childlike wonder based on both Reubens’ original stage show, “The Pee-wee Herman Show,” and the Emmy®-winning Saturday morning TV show, “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” which became a cultural phenomenon. "Pee-wee's Playhouse" which celebrates its 25th Anniversary in September 2011, garnered 22 Emmy® awards during its original run, and was recently ranked among the "Ten Best Kids Shows With Grown Up Appeal" by NBC's Today Show. Renowned writer-director-producer Judd Apatow recently announced that he and Reubens are developing a new feature film based on the character.

Follow Pee-wee Herman on:
twitter.com/peeweeherman
facebook.com/peeweeherman
foursquare.com/peeweeherman

Pre-order THE PEE-WEE HERMAN SHOW ON BROADWAY:
http://amzn.com/B0054602YE

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Adult Swim Panels and Events!!

2011-07-12T11:56:00.001-06:00

Fans of portroids may be able to tell from the collection of Polaroid portraits on this site that I'm a fan of comedy, so the Adult Swim panels at Comic-Con of are particular interest. Read this press release to see what shows they are bringing to SDCC:

Adult Swim Series Panels and Events Lineup 2011 San Diego Comic-Con International

This year at San Diego Comic-Con, Adult Swim will feature the first-ever Adult Swim panel block. On Friday, July 21 from 11:45 a.m. – 5 p.m., the network will own a convention room at the Hilton Bayfront – Indigo Ballroom (located directly next to the convention center) for a day of programming featuring creators, producers and actors from Robot Chicken, The Venture Bros., Childrens Hospital, NTSF:SD:SUV::, Black Dynamite and Eagleheart. Adult Swim stars will include Rob Corddry, Chris Elliott, Paul Scheer, Jackson Publick, Doc Hammer, Seth Green and more. Fans will also get an exclusive preview of some of the new series coming to the network.

Adult Swim is bringing the ice cream trucks back to San Diego for Comic-Con 2011 and keeping fans cool by rewarding them with free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Show talent will be along for the ride to pass out ice cream, interact with fans, and sign autographs. Keep your eyes peeled for the trucks cruising around San Diego giving out frozen treats.

Adult Swim will also host nightly fan events at Quality Social Club in the Gaslamp, Thursday, July 21 – Saturday, July 23. The venue will provide a casual and intimate destination for rabid Adult Swim fans to come together and interact with some of network’s creators, producers and talent. The club will be a nightly venue with music and special events. Tickets for admission are limited and will be given out at Adult Swim panels, booth and ice cream trucks.

Below is a schedule of series panels, fan events and signings at 2011 Comic-Con International in San Diego, Calif., Thursday, July 21 - Sunday, July 24, 2011. All times, dates and locations subject to change.

ADULT SWIM PANEL BLOCK

Friday, July 22
Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront (directly next to the convention center) 11:45 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Venture Bros. 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Show creators Jackson Publick and Doc Hammer will screen an early premiere of The Venture Bros. Special—From The Ladle To The Grave: The Story Of Shallow Gravy—a 15-minute documentary-style animated special. The creators joined by James Urbaniak (Dr. Venture) will discuss their original series and answer questions. The Venture Bros. Special—From The Ladle To The Grave: The Story Of Shallow Gravy premieres August 28 on Adult Swim.

NTSF:SD:SUV:: (National Terrorism Strike Force: San Diego: Sport Utility Vehicle) 12:45 – 1:15 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Sneak peek of Adult Swim’s newest live-action comedy as introduced by creator and star Paul Scheer (The League) and executive producer Jon Stern (The Ten). NTSF:SD:SUV:: is a clandestine team of government agents working together to protect San Diego from numerous terrorist threats coming in daily from such evil countries as Mexico, Canada and Guam. This team of highly trained operatives has only one job: saving your ass so you can drive your hybrid and see your movies in 3-D without worrying about living in a country run by no-good terrorists. Panel will also include series co-stars Martin Starr (Adventureland), Brandon Johnson (Get Him to the Greek), June Diane Raphael (Going the Distance) and executive producer Curtis Gwinn.

Childrens Hospital 1:30 – 2:15 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Come watch a never-before-seen episode of Childrens Hospital and hear from the show’s creative team led by Rob Corddry (Cedar Rapids) and Jon Stern (The Ten). They will be joined by members of their ensemble cast of comedic heavyweights including Malin Akerman (Couples Retreat), Lake Bell (No Strings Attached), Erinn Hayes (Parenthood), Rob Huebel (I Love You Man), Ken Marino (Party Down) and Megan Mullally (Will and Grace). Childrens Hospital explores the emotional struggles and sexual politics of a group of doctors charged with healthy libidos.

Black Dynamite 2:30 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Creators and voice talent from the new animated series will give a sneak peek of the show and answer questions. Executive producer Carl Jones (The Boondocks) and director Scott Sanders (Black Dynamite) will be on the panel in addition to: writer and star Michael Jai White, voice actor Kym Whitley and writer and voice actor Byron Minns, all of whom also starred in the live-action feature film Black Dynamite. The 2009 feature film is an outrageous action comedy-spoof that follows ex-CIA agent and full-time ladies man, Black Dynamite, who’s out to avenge the death of his brother against kung-fu masters, drug-dealing pimps and The Man. The Black Dynamite animated series further chronicles the exploits Black Dynamite and his crew. Chris Hardwick will moderate the panel.

Robot Chicken Time: 3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Seth Green (co-creator, Robot Chicken), Matthew Senreich (co-creator, Robot Chicken), Tom Root (head writer, Robot Chicken), Breckin Meyer (voice talent) and Zeb Wells (writer) discuss the popular Adult Swim series. Robot Chicken, from actor/producer Seth Green and Matthew Senreich, uses stop-motion animation to bring pop-culture parodies to life in a modern take on the variety/sketch show format. In Robot Chicken, no pop-culture target is safe. Legions of action figures are used to spoof everything from reality television and Star Wars to past Presidents.

Eagleheart 4:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Indigo Ballroom, Level 2, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Chris Elliott (Get A Life) discusses his Eagleheart role as Marshal Chris Monsanto, who blindly kicks, punches and shoots his way to what may or may not be a legitimate solution to his cases. Panelists include series stars Chris Elliott, Brett Gelman (The Other Guys), Maria Thayer (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) and executive producers Michael Koman, Andrew Weinberg and Jason Woliner. Produced by Conan O’Brien’s Conaco Productions and Dakota Pictures, Eagleheart promises violence, suspense, intrigue and copious amounts of needless bloodshed.

ADULT SWIM SIGNINGS

Thursday, July 21

• 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Robot Chicken
Visit Adult Swim booth #3949 for details

Friday, July 22

• 2:45 – 3:45 p.m. Childrens Hospital
WB Booth # 4545 (remember, WB signing require a ticket given out early in day in the Sails Pavillion)

Saturday, July 23

• 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Black Dynamite
Location: Signing room 28C
Visit Adult Swim booth #3949 for tickets
• 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. The Venture Bros.
Visit Adult Swim booth #3949 for details

ADULT SWIM FAN EVENTS

Adult Swim @ Quality Social
789 6th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
*Check out the Adult Swim booth, panels, and ice cream trucks to find out how to get in. Tickets for admission are limited.

Thursday, July 21 – NTSF:SD:SUV:: Premiere Party hosted by Paul Scheer & performance by Kid Koala
9 p.m. Doors
Event at 10 p.m.

Friday, July 22 – The Venture Bros. Costume Contest & performance by Flying Lotus
9:30 p.m. Doors
Event at 10:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 23 – Special Performance
9 p.m. Doors
Event at 10 p.m.

Adult Swim (AdultSwim.com), launched in 2001, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.’s network offering original and acquired animated and live-action series for young adults. Airing nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. (ET, PT), Adult Swim shares channel space with Cartoon Network, home to the best in original, acquired and classic entertainment for youth and families, and is seen in 99 million U.S. homes.

Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.

Here are all the portroids related to this Adult Swim press release:

Paul Scheer

Martin Starr

Rob Corddry

Malin Akerman

Rob Huebel

Ken Marino

Maria Thayer

Chris Hardwick

See you there!!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Portroid in Brooklyn Magazine!

2011-07-11T20:11:00.000-06:00

Hey Portroids' Friends and Fans,

The latest issue of Brooklyn Magazine (Summer 2011), the one with Emily Mortimer on the cover, has an interview with Morgan Spurlock on the last page and features my portroid of Morgan.

Buy a copy if you live in/near Brooklyn. The magazine is very cool (and not only because it has one of my pictures in it).

Check it out!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Comedy Central's Panels!!

2011-07-11T12:57:00.000-06:00

Hey! Comedy Central has announced which shows its bring to Comic-Con.

Here's a portroid related to the press release that follows it:

Matt Groening!

COMEDY CENTRAL® TO PRESENT "UGLY AMERICANS" AND "FUTURAMA" PANELS AT COMIC-CON® INTERNATIONAL 2011 IN SAN DIEGO

---------
"Ugly Americans" Panel On Friday, July 23 From 4:00-5:00 P.M.
With Dan Powell (Executive Producer), Devin Clark (Producer And Series Creator), Aaron Augenblick (Director Of Animation), And Cast Members Matt Oberg, Kurt Metzger, Larry Murphy And Randy Pearlstein
---------
"Futurama" Panel On Saturday, July 24 From 12:15-1:00 P.M.
With Executive Producers Matt Groening And David X. Cohen, Cast Members Billy West, John DiMaggio, Katey Sagal And Maurice LaMarche
--------

NEW YORK, July 11, 2011 -- COMEDY CENTRAL's animated series return to Comic-Con® with an "Ugly Americans" panel on Friday, July 22 from 4:00-5:00 p.m. and a "Futurama" panel on Saturday, July 23 from 12:15-1:00 p.m.
* Friday, July 22: "Ugly Americans" panel (Room 23ABC) 4:00-5:00 p.m. The panelists include Dan Powell (Executive Producer), Devin Clark (Producer and Series Creator), Aaron Augenblick (Director of Animation), Matt Oberg (voice of Mark Lilly), Kurt Metzger (voice of Randall Skeffington), Larry Murphy (voice of Lt. Grimes) and moderator Randy Pearlstein (voice of Leonard Powers). The session will feature a live, in-character table read, a behind-the-scenes look into the current second season, a sneak peak from an upcoming episode, a Q&A, a look at the highly anticipated downloadable game, "Ugly Americans: Apocalypsegeddon" and more.

* Saturday, July 23: "Futurama" panel (Ballroom 20) 12:15-1:00 p.m. "Futurama" is back! Again!!! On stage will be Creator/Executive Producer Matt Groening, Executive Producer David X. Cohen and stars Billy West (Fry, Professor Farnsworth, Dr. Zoidberg), Katey Sagal (Leela), John DiMaggio (Bender) and Maurice LaMarche (Kif Kroker, Calculon, Morbo). A sneak peek at never-before-seen footage of "Futurama" reincarnated as Japanese anime will be revealed along with a thrilling preview from this season currently airing on COMEDY CENTRAL. Plus more! Much more! The panel will be moderated by Bill Morrison.

"Futurama," the Emmy® Award-winning series, and "Ugly Americans" air as part of a weekly, one-hour “Thurs-Dimension” animation block on Thursdays from 10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT on COMEDY CENTRAL with "Futurama" from 10:00-10:30 p.m. and "Ugly Americans" from 10:30-11:00 p.m.

Take New York City, add every horrifying beast, science-fiction freak and fantasy faerie, shake thoroughly, and you've got "Ugly Americans," an animated series that follows Mark Lilly, a social worker at the Department of Integration, as he helps new citizens both human and "other" adapt to hectic life in the Big Apple. There are easier tasks than soothing a vengeful mummy, being a slave in Satan’s dark army and trying to circumcise wizards, but Mark proves he’s up to the challenge, even if his co-workers are as incompetent as ever.

Mark's case load during the second season is heavy as always and his Department of Integration colleagues are less than helpful, including Twayne (Michael-Leon Wooley), a terrorizing demonic bureaucrat; Mark’s succubus co-worker and casual fling Callie Maggotbone (Natasha Leggero), who has some strange ideas about where to take their relationship; Leonard Powers (Randy Pearlstein), an aging drunken wizard and Mark’s office mate; and Lt. Grimes (Larry Murphy), a law-enforcement officer who despises non-humans. At least Mark still has his zombie roommate Randall Skeffington (Kurt Metzger), who doesn’t care what Mark does, as long as he covers his half of the rent.

In August, MTV Networks' "345 Games" division will release “Ugly Americans: Apocalypseggedon” (available for Xbox LIVE Arcade and PlayStation Network), a four player co-op side-scroller shooter game that features an exclusive script written by the show’s writers – including a new character unique to the game and custom voiceovers from the show’s actors. Uniting the spirit and humor of the series with addictive game play, players of “Ugly Americans: Apocalypseggedon” will hit the streets to clean up the chaos and prevent the impending apocalypse by resolving case files and fighting otherworldly citizens.

"Futurama" focuses on the life of Philip Fry (Billy West), a 25-year-old pizza delivery boy who accidentally freezes himself on December 31, 1999 and wakes up 1,000 years later with a fresh start at life at Planet Express, an intergalactic delivery company. There he meets love interest Leela (Katey Sagal), a sexy cyclops with anger management issues, and best friend Bender (John DiMaggio), a beer-powered kleptomaniac robot. The series aired for five seasons on Fox (1999 to 2003) earning Emmy® nominations each season while winning three times, including "Outstanding Animated Program" in 2002.

Here's one more portroid related to this press release:

Bill Morrison

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: USA Networks Brings COVERT AFFAIRS, PSYCH, and BURN NOTICE: THE FALL OF SAM AXE

2011-07-08T14:33:00.001-06:00

Another Comic-Con press release today. This time from USA Networks with their panel announcements.

Here is a related portroid and then the press release follows:

Bruce Campbell

USA NETWORK RETURNS TO COMIC-CON® ON JULY 21 WITH CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED ORIGINAL SERIES “COVERT AFFAIRS” AND “PSYCH” PLUS “BURN NOTICE: THE FALL OF SAM AXE”

Back-to-Back Panels Feature Entire Casts of COVERT AFFAIRS and PSYCH; BURN NOTICE’s Bruce Campbell and Matt Nix to discuss series and prequel film

LOS ANGELES – July 8, 2011 – USA, which just celebrated its 20th consecutive quarterly win as the #1 entertainment cable network and is currently dominating summer’s television landscape with a record number of original hits, returns to Comic-Con® for the third year in a row with talent and creators from three of its critically acclaimed and top rated shows – COVERT AFFAIRS, PSYCH and BURN NOTICE. USA panels will take place as Comic-Con kicks off on Thursday, July 21, 2011.

Making its debut at Comic-Con® is the entire cast of COVERT AFFAIRS, with a panel moderated by guest star Oded Fehr. COVERT AFFAIRS, which returned in June for its sophomore season, stars Golden Globe®-nominated Piper Perabo as Annie Walker, a young CIA operative whose exceptional linguistic skills make her invaluable to the Agency in missions that span the globe. The panel will also include Christopher Gorham, who stars as a blind tech ops agent and Annie's agency confidant; Sendhil Ramamurthy, second generation agency man, Jai Wilcox, who's intentions with Annie remain unclear; Kari Matchett, who plays Joan Annie's no-nonsense manager and wife to Aurthur Campbell, the Director of Clandestine Services, played by Peter Gallagher; and Anne Dudek, Annie's reliable older sister who has no idea what she really does for a living. From Universal Cable Productions, COVERT AFFAIRS is executive produced by Doug Liman and David Bartis through Hypnotic, and created and executive produced by Matt Corman and Chris Ord, who will be in attendance, as well.

PSYCH, USA’s current longest running hit series, returns to Comic-Con® with a panel moderated by guest Kurt Fuller, known to fans as “Woody The Coroner.” The entire main cast will take part in the panel including James Roday, who stars as Shawn Spencer, solving crimes for the Santa Barbara police department in his own special way; Dulé Hill who co-stars as Shawn's best friend and reluctant sidekick Gus; Corbin Bernsen as Shawn's disapproving father; and Maggie Lawson and Timothy Omundson who play the police detectives O’Hara and Lassiter who unwillingly rely on Shawn’s psychic skills, along with the police chief Vick played by Kirsten Nelson. Joining the panel will be creator and executive producer Steve Franks and executive producers Chris Henke and Kelly Kulchak. PSYCH returns for its sixth season on USA this Fall.

Also returning to Comic-Con® is one of the convention favorites, BURN NOTICE, with Bruce Campbell, and executive producer Matt Nix with a panel to recap of the series' signature movie, BURN NOTICE: THE FALL OF SAM AXE. The prequel film to USA's smash hit series takes place in Columbia 2005 when Lieutenant Commander Sam Axe (Campbell) is sent to advise a local military platoon. It's there he discovers deep layers of deception and ultimately realizes he may be allied with the wrong side. Shot on location in Bogota, Columbia, the two-hour movie is directed by BURN NOTICE star Jeffrey Donovan. BURN NOTICE: THE FALL OF SAM AXE also stars Ron Reaco Lee, Kiele Sanchez , John Diehl and Chandra West. The prequel is written and executive produced by BURN NOTICE creator Matt Nix. Donovan and Campbell also serve as executive producers on the Fox Television Studios project alongside the show's Mikkel Bondesen.

USA Network is the #1 network in all of basic cable and is seen in over 102 million U.S. homes. A division of NBCUniversal, USA is the cable television leader in original series and home to the best in blockbuster theatrical films, acquired television series and entertainment events. The award-winning USA website is located at usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.

USA Network is a program service of NBCUniversal Cable a division of NBCUniversal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.

Here, for your viewing pleasure, is one more portroid related to this press release:

Piper Perabo

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: ABC Announces Panels!

2011-07-08T11:03:00.000-06:00

ABC is bringing a lot of cool shows and panels to Comic-Con this year and has some great giveaways and signing sessions with it's stars. Read the press release below for more info:

ABC’S “ONCE UPON A TIME,” “CHARLIE’S ANGELS,” “CASTLE” AND “THE RIVER” TAKE THE STAGE AT COMIC-CON 2011

Don’t Forget to Pack Your Bags for an Exclusive “Pan Am”Giveaway

ABC showcases its upcoming primetime lineup with an exciting peek at its new shows and an interactive booth at Comic Con 2011, taking place in San Diego in late July. “Once Upon a Time,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Castle” and “The River” stars and executive producers will participate in the convention for Q&A panels, press room interviews and special autograph sessions. Additionally, the much buzzed about new drama series, “Pan Am,” will also be represented at Comic-Con. Below are the details:

Friday, July 22
“The River”, from Amblin Entertainment and ABC Studios, exclusive screening and Q&A panel for ABC’s newest supernatural series in Room 6A from 2:15-3:15 p.m. From the studio that brought you “Lost” comes a new adventure set deep in the Amazon. Join executive producers Oren Peli (“Paranormal Activity”), Michael Green (“Green Lantern”) and Zack Estrin (“Tru Calling”), plus cast members Joe Anderson (“The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn”), Eloise Mumford (“Lone Star”) and Leslie Hope (“24”). All attendees will get a limited edition Comic-Con poster and flashlight. You don’t want to miss this! The moderator will be Monica Rizzo of People Magazine. Following the panel, the stars will participate in a special autograph session from 4:45-5:30 p.m. in Room 28C.

Saturday, July 23
“Once Upon a Time” exclusive screening and panel in Room 6DE from 3:15-4:15 p.m.: Calling all “Lost” fans! – join moderator Damon Lindelof (“Lost”) as he introduces you to the magical story of two parallel worlds: one in a distant fairytale land, the other in a present-day reality. Following the exclusive screening of the pilot, co-creators and executive producers Edward Kitsis (“Lost” and “Tron: Legacy”) and Adam Horowitz (“Lost” and “Tron: Legacy”) along with Ginnifer Goodwin (“Big Love”), Jennifer Morrison (“House”), Robert Carlyle (“SGU: Stargate Universe”), Lana Parrilla (“24”) and Josh Dallas (“Thor”) will have a Q&A panel about this modern fairytale turned on its head. All attendees will get a limited edition Comic-Con giveaway! Arrive early for the exclusive posters and magic mirrors. After the panel, the stars will participate in a special autograph session from 5:45-6:30 p.m. in Room 28C.

“Charlie’s Angels” screening and panel in the Indigo Ballroom at Hilton San Diego Bayfront from 5:00-6:00 p.m. Hello Angels! This fun, glamorous, action-packed take on the 1970′s smash hit series introduces us to three new angels. After the screening, participate in a Q&A panel with Bosley and the ladies from the Townsend Agency. “Charlie’s Angels” stars Annie Ilonzeh as Kate Prince, Minka Kelly as Eve, Rachael Taylor as Abby Sampson and Ramon Rodriguez as Bosley. Written and executive produced by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (“Smallville”), “Charlie’s Angels” is also executive produced by Drew Barrymore (“Charlie’s Angels” movies), Leonard Goldberg (the original “Charlie’s Angels”) and Nancy Juvonen (“Charlie’s Angels” movies). It is directed and executive produced by Marcos Siega (“Vampire Diaries,” “Dexter”). “Charlie’s Angels” is produced by Millar/Gough Ink, Flower Films and Panda Productions in association with Sony Pictures Television.

Sunday, July 24
“Castle” panel from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. in 6BCF: After the smashing success of the Q&A panel last season, “Castle” returns with scheduled panelists, including Nathan Fillion (Richard Castle), Jon Huertas (Detective Tony Esposito), Seamus Dever (Detective Kevin Ryan), Tamala Jones (Medical Examiner Lanie Parish), Susan Sullivan (Martha Rodgers) and Molly Quinn (Alexis Castle). Fans will be treated to exclusive video highlights, bonus footage from the upcoming DVD release of Season 3 and an exclusive Comic Con poster and notebook giveaway. The moderator will be Will Keck of TV Guide Magazine. After the panel, the panelists will participate in a special autograph session at the Marvel Entertainment Booth (#2329) from 2:15-3:00 p.m.

In addition to those Q & A panels, “Pan Am” – from July 20 to July 24 – will have a special booth designed as the first class cabin of a 1960’s inspired Pan Am plane. Fans who visit the booth will be given a flight time and a boarding pass. Check in for your flight on time, board the plane and watch a preview of ABC’s new drama. Fans that visit the booth will receive a Pan Am giveaway such as a collectable, one-of-a-kind Pan Am travel bag.

Here are some portroids related to this press release:

Edward Kitsis

Adam Horowitz

Robert Carlyle

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011 - CBS Bringing NCIS: LOS ANGELES

2011-07-08T08:32:00.000-06:00

Do you like NCIS: Los Angeles, Chris O'Donnell, and/or LL Cool J? If so, don't miss this panel at Comic-Con. Here is the press release:

“NCIS: LOS ANGELES” TECHS OUT AT COMIC-CON

Series Stars Chris O’Donnell, LL COOL J and Exec Producer & Creator Shane Brennan To Headline Panel Discussion on Friday, July 22

July 7, 2011 -- Hollywood, CA – NCIS: LOS ANGELES stars Chris O’Donnell and LL COOL J will make a special appearance at Comic-Con 2011 in a panel discussion with series creator and executive producer Shane Brennan. Other cast members that may participate in the panel include Eric Christian Olsen, Daniela Ruah, Renee Felice Smith, and Barrett Foa. The “Teching Out With NCIS: LA” panel will give fans a behind the scenes look at how the series uses some of the coolest and advanced technology available today, as well as how the cast utilize technology and social media in their own personal lives to connect with their fans. Find out what’s real, what’s not and what’s in store for season 3!

The panel is scheduled for Friday, July 22nd at 7PM in Room 6BCF. Everyone attending the panel will receive a limited collector’s edition NCIS: LOS ANGELES shirt with “Hettyisms,” including: “I sense impending mayhem,” “Oh, bugger!” or “Undercover work is a matter of confidence.”

Additionally, the NCIS: LOS ANGELES cast will sign autographs on Saturday, July 23 at 11:30AM-12:30PM at the CBS booth on the convention floor. (BOOTH #4129)

NCIS: LOS ANGELES, which premieres its third season on Tuesday, September 20 (9:00-10:00PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, is a drama about the high stakes world of the Office of Special Projects (OSP), a division of NCIS that is charged with apprehending dangerous and elusive criminals that pose a threat to the nation's security. By assuming false identities and utilizing the most advanced technology, this team of highly trained agents goes deep undercover, putting their lives on the line in the field to bring down their targets.

For the latest updates on all things “NCIS: LOS ANGELES,” and behind-the-scenes coverage of Comic-Con 2011, follow us on twitter @NCISLA_CBS and @CBSTVStudios, and follow the cast @LLCoolJ @ChrisOdonnell @BarrettFoa @Ericcolsen @DanielaRuah @ReneefSmith.

Here is a portroid from last year's Comic-Con related to the above press release:

Barrett Foa

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: MTV Announces Panels

2011-07-07T15:23:00.000-06:00

Check out the press release from MTV for some cool panels they're doing at Comic-Con this year.

MTV TAKES COMIC-CON BY STORM WITH FIVE PANELS FEATURING WEREWOLVES, ZOMBIES, AND A BUTTHEAD, AMONG OTHERS

Stars and Producers of “Mike Judge’s Beavis and Butthead,” “Teen Wolf,” New Horror-Comedy “Death Valley,” and New Animated Series “Good Vibes” To Appear, “Jackass” Star Johnny Knoxville to Moderate “Mike Judge’s Beavis & Butthead” Panel, And Filmmaker Wes Craven To Host “Death Valley” Panel, MTV Geek! Will Feature a Panel with the Legendary Stan Lee Along with Famed Comic Book Illustrator Marc SIlvestri

Santa Monica, CA (July 7, 2011) - MTV roars into Comic-Con bringing four scripted series and an hour of MTV Comics to the convention this year, with a schedule that includes panels, press rooms and an autograph signing with the cast of “Teen Wolf.”

Johnny Knoxville (“Jackass”) will sit down with “Beavis and Butthead” creator Mike Judge for a one-on-one Q&A, and fans will be treated to an exclusive first look at scenes from all new episodes.

Celebrated horror film writer/director Wes Craven (“Scream,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street”) will talk to the cast and series producers of the new horror-comedy “Death Valley.” Fans will be shown the world premiere this genre-busting series, along with a super tease of what’s to come this season.

“Teen Wolf” returns to Comic-Con with an exclusive look at highlights from future episodes, and a Q&A with the entire cast and producers.

From David Gordon Green, producer of “Pineapple Express” and “Eastbound & Down,” comes the new animated series “Good Vibes,” featuring voice talent including Adam Brody, Jake Busey, Tony Hale, Debi Mazar and Alan Tudyk. Fans will also be the first to see an episode of the series, along with a clip showcasing upcoming scenes from the season.

The very first comic book based on the hit series “Teen Wolf” will be distributed and signed by the cast at the “Top Cow” booth on Saturday, July 23rd from 4:00-5:00 p.m.

In addition to their panel, MTV’s comics site MTV Geek! (http://geek.mtv.com/) will be providing around the clock coverage of the convention from the show floor, the latest announcements from all the panels, and interviews direct from Geek HQ at the Omni Hotel.

PANEL DESCRIPTIONS

“Mike Judge’s Beavis and Butthead”
In 1993, Mike Judge (creator of “Beavis and Butthead”) and MTV knocked their heads together and launched a cartoon series starring a couple of lunkheads and unwittingly started an animated pop culture revolution! Now, Beavis and Butthead are coming back to MTV in 2011 to unleash upon music videos, Jersey Shore, viral videos and more! See the first footage from the new episodes and join Mike Judge as he discusses the duo’s return to MTV! Tickets will be distributed to fans to redeem some cool “Beavis and Butthead” swag. Moderator: Johnny Knoxville - Room 6A

“Death Valley”
MTV brings the unique marriage of Horror and Comedy together with new series “Death Valley.” Join the ensemble cast Caity Lotz (“Mad Men”), Tania Raymonde (“Lost”), Bryan Callen (“The Hangover”), Bryce Johnson (“Sleeping Dogs Lie”), Texas Battle (“Final Destination 3”) and Charlie Sanders (“Funny or Die”), along with showrunner/executive producer Eric Weinberg (“Californication,” “Scrubs”), Director Drew Daywalt (“Bedfellows”), executive producer/Director Austin Reading (Spike TV’s Scream Awards, FEARnet), executive producer Julie Kellman Reading and co- executive producer Spider One in a discussion about the challenges of bringing the comedy and horror genres together, and how the team involved in the series bring all the elements of what they know best to the series. Fans will get an exclusive first-look at an upcoming episode. Q&A session moderated by horror film marvel Wes Craven to follow! Tickets will be distributed to redeem for an exclusive “Death Valley” swag item. - Room 5AB

“Teen Wolf”
Find out what’s in store for TV’s hottest cast and see exclusive footage from the upcoming final episodes of season one at this must-see panel discussion with breakout stars Tyler Posey, Crystal Reed, Dylan O’Brien, Tyler Hoechlin, Holland Roden and Colton Haynes, along with executive producer Jeff Davis (Creator of “Criminal Minds”) and Director/co-executive producer Russell Mulcahy (Director, “Highlander”, “Resident Evil: Extinction”). MTV’s “Teen Wolf” is a sexy, suspenseful drama about transformation set against the backdrop of contemporary teen life with a forbidden, romantic love story at its core, making it a fresh and different take on the iconic movie. The hour-long 12-episode series airs regularly on Monday nights at 10/9c. Moderated by TV Guide Magazine Editor-in-Chief, Debra Birnbaum. Don’t forget to grab a ticket to redeem for “Teen Wolf” swag item. - Room 24ABC

“Good Vibes”
Chill out in the California sun with the cast of MTV’s new animated comedy “Good Vibes” at Comic-Con. Join cast members Adam Brody (“The OC,” “Scream 4”), Jake Busey (“The Good Guys,” “The Mentalist”), Tony Hale (“Chuck,” “Human Target”), Debi Mazar (“Entourage,” “Jonas”) and Alan Tudyk (“Transformers: Dark of the Moon”), along with executive producer and creator David Gordon Green (“Pineapple Express” “Your Highness” “Eastbound & Down”), and executive producers Tom Brady (“The Simpsons” “The Critic” “The Hot Chick”), Brad Ableson (“The Simpsons”) and Mike Clements (“The Life and Times of Tim,” “Are You There Vodka, It’s Me Chelsea”) as they discuss their new animated comedy coming to MTV this Fall, and give fans an exclusive first look at an upcoming episode. The show also stars Josh Gad (“Book of Mormon”), Danny McBride (“Eastbound & Down”) and Olivia Thirlby (“Bored to Death”). The Q&A will be lead by moderator Tim Stack of Entertainment Weekly. Tickets will be distributed to fans for a very cool “Good Vibes” item. - Room 24ABC

“MTV Geek!”
Join Executive Editor Tom Akel to hear about new and ongoing titles with MTV creators. Marc Silvestri will discuss the new MTV/Top Cow collaboration September Mourning; a multiplatform project blending comics and music through video, comic books, and live events. And the legendary Stan Lee will reveal the story behind MTV Comics’ upcoming digital book The Seekers and let us know when to start sending submissions for both artists and writers to collaborate with Stan on the comic! - Room 7AB

PLEASE NOTE: Series stars and creative teams scheduled to attend are subject to change.

MTV SERIES PANEL SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, JULY 21
“Mike Judge’s Beavis and Butthead” Panel: 5:00–6:00 p.m., Room 6A

FRIDAY, JULY 22
“Death Valley” Panel: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m., Room 5AB

SATURDAY, JULY 23
“MTV Geek!” Panel: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Room 7AB
“Teen Wolf” Panel: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Room 24ABC
- Cast signing at “Top Cow” Booth (#2629) from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
“Good Vibes” Panel: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Room 24ABC

About MTV
MTV is the world’s premier youth entertainment brand. With a global reach of more than a half-billion households, MTV is the cultural home of the millennial generation, music fans and artists, and a pioneer in creating innovative programming for young people. MTV reflects and creates pop culture with its Emmy®, Grammy® and Peabody® award-winning content built around compelling storytelling, music discovery and activism across TV, online and mobile. MTV’s sibling networks MTV2 and mtvU each deliver unparalleled customized content for young males, music fans and college students, and its online hub MTV.com is the leading destination for music, news and pop culture. MTV is part of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.

Here are some portroids related to this press release for you to enjoy:

Johnny Knoxville

Wes Craven

Alan Tudyk

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Legendary Entertainment Announces Panel!

2011-07-06T16:30:00.000-06:00

Legendary Entertainment will be bringing a nice collection of their films to Comic-Con for a panel presentation. Read about it here in their latest press release:

LEGENDARY ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER FILM PANEL AT 2011 COMIC-CON® INTERNATIONAL IN SAN DIEGO

Burbank, CA – July 6, 2011 – For the first time ever, Legendary Entertainment will hold a standalone panel to provide the Comic-Con® International audience with an early look at some of the films from Legendary’s upcoming slate. On Friday, July 22nd, audience participants will have the opportunity to attend an engaging panel consisting of cast and filmmakers from upcoming Legendary films including PACIFIC RIM, SEVENTH SON and PARADISE LOST, all to be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, as well as MASS EFFECT.

Fans can expect to witness on-stage camaraderie between and Q&A’s with:

PACIFIC RIM
Acclaimed writer, producer and director, Guillermo del Toro alongside cast members including Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Charlie Day, and Rinko Kikuchi as well as screenwriter, Travis Beacham.

SEVENTH SON
Academy Award® winner, Jeff Bridges and THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA star, Ben Barnes, alongside Alicia Vikander and director, Sergei Bodrov.

PARADISE LOST
Bradley Cooper and KNOWING director, Alex Proyas.

MASS EFFECT
Game creator, Casey Hudson and screenwriter adapting the game to film, Mark Protosevich.

Legendary’s Chairman and CEO, Thomas Tull as well as Chief Creative Officer, Jon Jashni, will also be in attendance to answer fan questions and to speak directly with cast and filmmakers about this exciting slate of upcoming films. Geoff Boucher of the Los Angeles Times, who is also the founder of HeroComplex.com, will moderate the panel.

About Legendary Entertainment
Legendary Entertainment is a leading media company with film, television and comics divisions dedicated to owning, producing and delivering content to mainstream audiences with a targeted focus on the powerful fandom demographic. Through complete or joint ownership, Legendary is building a library of marquee media properties and has established itself as a trusted brand which consistently delivers high-quality, commercial entertainment including some of the world’s most popular intellectual property. Among the wholly-owned film projects that Legendary Entertainment is currently developing in-house are Pacific Rim, directed by Guillermo del Toro; an adaptation of the phenomenally successful interactive game universe Warcraft; Godzilla, based on Toho Company’s famed character; Warren Ellis’ Gravel; and Mass Effect, based on Electronic Arts and BioWare’s hit videogame franchise. Legendary has co-produced more than 25 Warner Bros. films, including the recent smash hit, The Hangover Part II, which holds the distinction of posting the highest opening weekend gross ever for a comedy film, the critically acclaimed Inception, which has been a box office smash grossing more than $825 million worldwide, as well as the global blockbusters Clash of the Titans ($493 million worldwide), The Dark Knight ($1 billion worldwide), 300 ($456 million worldwide) and The Hangover ($467 million worldwide).

Here are some portroids related to this press release:

Charlie Day

Bradley Cooper

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM!!!

2011-07-05T16:14:00.001-06:00

This movie, Knights of Badassdom, and the panel for it at Comic-Con this year look like they will be a ton of fun. Put it on your schedule!

KNIGHTS OF BADASSOM TO HOLD COURT AT SAN DIEGO COMIC CON
Ryan Kwanten, Summer Glau, Peter Dinklage to Attend

The highly anticipated independent film KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM will be coming to San Diego Comic Con 2011. The film will be in Hall H on Saturday, July 23 at 2:15 PM.

The KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM panel will include a Comic-Con exclusive trailer and a panel discussion/Q&A with stars Ryan Kwanten (HBO's True Blood, RED HILL), Peter Dinklage (HBO's Game of Thrones, STATION AGENT), Summer Glau (Firefly, SERENITY, The Sarah Connor Chronicles), Danny Pudi (NBC's Community), Margarita Levieva ( THE LINCOLN LAWYER, ADVENTURELAND), and director Joe Lynch (WRONG TURN 2).

In this humorous fantasy adventure from IndieVest Pictures, Joe (Ryan Kwanten) is a heavy metal rocker who's just gone through a painful breakup with his girlfriend, Beth (Margarita Levieva). His concerned roommates (Steve Zahn, Peter Dinklage) kidnap him to their LARP (Live Action Role Playing) gathering, where he enters a realm of fantasy escapism in which pretend knights, elves, and barbarians clash with foam weaponry on a mock battlefield. When Joe's "sorcerer" roommate (Zahn) inadvertently summons a deadly succubus that takes Beth's seductive form, bloody reality crashes down upon their fantasy world. Once LARPers start to turn up dead, the make-believe wizards and warriors must become the real life heroes they have been pretending to be in order to conquer the evil that has been unleashed.

Follow KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM:
http://www.facebook.com/knightsofbadassdom
@badassdom_movie

Here are some portroids related to this Comic-Con panel:

Summer Glau

Peter Dinklage

Danny Pudi

Bad ass,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Deadliest Warrior - Vampires vs. Zombies

2011-07-05T16:06:00.000-06:00

This looks like a fun panel: Vampires vs. Zombies. While I often argue that zombies are a more realistic possibility to potentially exist in our world, I think in a battle between vampires and zombies, vampires would totally win. Attend this panel to see what the experts think!

"DEADLIEST WARRIOR - VAMPIRES VS. ZOMBIES" PANEL SESSION

WHO:
WES CRAVEN ("Scream," "Nightmare on Elm Street") - Panelist
MAX BROOKS (Zombie Survival Guide, World War Z) - Panelist
STEVE NILES (30 Days of Night) - Panelist
RICHARD "MACK" MACHOWICZ ("Deadliest Warrior" host) - Panelist
DR. ARMAND DORIAN ("Deadliest Warrior" host) - Panelist
RASHA DRACHKOVITCH ("Deadliest Warrior" executive producer) - Panelist
ROBERT DALY ("Deadliest Warrior") - Panelist
GEOFF BOUCHER (LA Times writer, HeroComplex.com founder) - Moderator

WHAT:
"DEADLIEST WARRIOR - VAMPIRES VS. ZOMBIES"
Vampires and Zombies have terrorized and tantalized their way through pop culture for decades - from "Dracula" to the "Twilight Saga" to "Walking Dead." SPIKE TV http://www.spike.com/ and its "DEADLIEST WARRIOR http://warrior.spike.com/ " franchise are going to finally answer the question - which of these mythical creatures would come out on top in a fight to the finish? "DEADLIEST WARRIOR" steps outside the confines of history for this groundbreaking fantasy episode destined to rouse heated debates amongst fans in the blogosphere for months. The special episode features an array of icons of film and fiction who are authorities on the topic. Through these expert interviews, scientific tests and careful analysis, it will be determined who would win in a battle to the death between these two iconic groups, Zombies and Vampires. The "DEADLIEST WARRIOR " team of Richard "Mack" Machowicz, Dr. Armand Dorian, Rasha Drachkovitch, Robert Daly and special guests Wes Craven, Max Brooks and Steve Niles will be on hand for this special Comic Con panel to make their case for who is, indeed, the fiercest. Acclaimed Los Angeles Times writer and HeroComplex.com founder Geoff Boucher will serve as moderator.

WHEN:
Thursday, July 21 from 10-11 AM

WHERE:
Room 25ABC

Who do you think would win?

Vampires,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: BBC America's DOCTOR WHO and BEDLAM Panels

2011-06-30T15:31:00.001-06:00

I've been getting pretty excited for all the announced events at Comic-Con this year, but to read that Matt Smith, THE DOCTOR himself, and Karen Gillan are making an appearance is beyond spectacular. Read the press release from BBC America below:

BBC AMERICA’s DOCTOR WHO & BEDLAM SET FOR COMIC-CON 2011

Doctor Who’s Matt Smith and Karen Gillan to make their first appearance

BBC AMERICA returns to Comic-Con International: San Diego with the stars and creators of their hit series Doctor Who and new sexy supernatural series Bedlam - for panels, signings and exclusive merchandise at the BBC AMERICA booth (#3629).

DOCTOR WHO: Panel and Q&A
Sunday, July 24, 12:30-1:30pm
HALL H

Stars Matt Smith and Karen Gillan make their first Comic-Con appearance for a panel and Q&A with Doctor Who writer Toby Whithouse (Being Human creator) and executive producers Piers Wenger and Beth Willis. They’re bringing with them, exclusive new footage from the new episodes airing later this summer on BBC AMERICA. Doctor Who follows the adventures of the Doctor, the mysterious traveler who journeys throughout all of time and space, picking up companions along the way and almost always sidestepping danger.

Doctor Who, from award winning lead writer and executive producer Steven Moffat, stars BAFTA nominee Matt Smith as the Doctor and Karen Gillan as his companion Amy Pond, along with Arthur Darvill as Rory and Alex Kingston who plays River Song. Part One of the new season, which premiered in April, delivered record ratings for BBC AMERICA and marked the first time Doctor Who filmed on American soil. Its finale ended with the unveiling of a massive secret and the words “Let’s Kill Hitler” on screen. Part One of Doctor Who arrives on Blu-ray/DVD on July 19 and Part Two premieres late summer on BBC AMERICA’s Supernatural Saturdays. Twitter: @BBCAmerica / #DoctorWho

BEDLAM: Exclusive U.S. Premiere Screening and Q&A
Friday, July 22, 5:15-6:15pm
ROOM 7AB

Star Theo James (Underworld 4: New Dawn, Downton Abbey) and creator David Allison (Boy Meets Girl) host a premiere screening event followed by discussion and Q&A. Bedlam Heights, the stylish new apartment building, has sexy tenants and gorgeous decor. But little do the new residents suspect that behind the luxury fittings lay unimaginable horrors. This is a place tainted by abuse, suffering and death – and the ghosts of its dark and violent past are out for revenge. As the direct descendent of those who ran the asylum, Kate (Charlotte Salt, The Tudors) - who both lives and works there - is a prime target. She is surprised by the unexpected arrival of Jed (James) – her adopted cousin. Jed is unique. With a history of mental illness, he’s a troubled man who sees ghosts and visions of the past. Recent messages to ‘Save Kate,’ propel him back into Kate’s life. Can he really 'Save Kate?' And from whom, or what, does she need saving? Everybody has a dark side in this new series also starring Ashley Madekwe (Secret Diary of a Call Girl), Hugo Speer (Skins) and Will Young (Pop Idol winner, Skins). Bedlam premieres Saturday, October 8, 9:00pm ET/PT on BBC AMERICA’s Supernatural Saturdays. Twitter: @BBCAmerica / #Bedlam.

THE BBC AMERICA BOOTH (#3629)

Fans of Doctor Who will find an assortment of contemporary and classic licensed merchandise at Comic-Con, available at the BBC AMERICA booth, in addition to officially licensed Doctor Who partners’ booths. The BBC AMERICA booth will also offer fans several product exclusives including: a comic book convention special, the River Song figure, and multiple t-shirt styles. From t-shirts to action figures, Sonic Screwdrivers to comic books, Doctor Who will have something for fans of any age.

For the latest Comic-Con updates, follow @BBCAmerica on Twitter, Doctor Who on Tumblr and check out full coverage by BBCAmerica.com’s Anglophenia.

PANEL AND SIGNING SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JULY 22
5:00-6:00p.m. BBC AMERICA’s Bedlam: Exclusive U.S. Premiere Screening and Q&A - Star Theo James and creator David Allison host a premiere screening event followed by discussion and Q&A. Room: 7AB

SATURDAY, JULY 23
11:00-11:30a.m. Bedlam star Theo James and creator David Allison signing at the BBC AMERICA booth (#3629).

SUNDAY, JULY 24
12:30-1:30p.m. BBC AMERICA’s Doctor Who – Stars Matt Smith, Karen Gillan make their first Comic-Con appearance for a panel and Q&A with writer Toby Whithouse and executive producers Piers Wenger and Beth Willis. Hall H

See you there!!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: CW Bringing RINGER And Star Sarah Michelle Gellar

2011-06-27T14:03:00.000-06:00

More Comic-Con news!! This time it's from CW:

SARAH MICHELLE GELLAR RETURNS TO TELEVISION STARRING IN CW'S NEW SERIES "RINGER"

Exclusive Sneak Peek of Series and Panel Discussion with Series' Stars and Creative Team on Thursday, July 21

June 27, 2011 -- Hollywood, CA -- Sarah Michelle Gellar ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer") makes her highly anticipated return to television in the new Fall CW series "Ringer," and will debut the series at Comic-Con 2011. Gellar, along with series stars and fan favorites Nestor Carbonell ("Lost," The Dark Knight"), Ioan Gruffudd ("Fantastic Four"), Kristoffer Polaha ("Life Unexpected") and the creative team will unveil the gripping new thriller. At the session, fans will see an exclusive sneak peek of the series as well as have an opportunity to win a three-night stay at a luxurious suite at a high-end hotel adjacent to the convention center during this year's Comic-Con.

Thursday, July 21 at 1:45-2:45PM, Ballroom 20

RINGER: Sarah Michelle Gellar ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer") makes her highly anticipated television return in the gripping new thriller RINGER, as a woman who, after witnessing a murder, goes on the run, hiding out by assuming the life of her wealthy identical twin sister -- only to learn that her sister's seemingly idyllic life is just as complicated and dangerous as the one she's trying to leave behind. Be the first to see an exclusive sneak peek of the new television series about family secrets and stolen identities followed by a panel discussion with series stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nestor Carbonell ("Lost," "The Dark Knight"), Ioan Gruffudd ("Fantastic Four"), Kristoffer Polaha ("Life Unexpected"), Executive Producer Pam Veasey ("CSI: NY") and Co-Executive Producers Nicole Snyder ("Supernatural") and Eric Charmelo ("Supernatural").

In addition to the "Ringer" panel, there will be exclusive fan giveaways during the session, including custom "Ringer" stools for everyone attending, a chance to win a three-night stay at a luxurious suite at a high-end hotel adjacent to the convention center during Comic-Con 2011 and 100 lucky fans will receive exclusive Comic-Con posters signed by the cast.

For the latest updates on all things "Ringer" and behind-the-scenes coverage of Comic-Con 2011, follow us at www.cwtv.com/shows/ringer, www.twitter.com @cw_network and @CBSTVStudios #Ringer and www.facebook.com/ringer.

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: FX Bringing "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia", "Archer", "Wilfred", and "Sons of Anarchy"

2011-06-23T13:53:00.000-06:00

Portroids fans will recall I had the privilege of attending the press conference for FX's "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia" at last year's Comic-Con and got some great photos and insights there. It looks like FX is bringing the show back again this year, along with "Archer", "Wilfred", and "Sons of Anarchy". Read the press release below and look for Portroid's coverage live from San Diego Comic-Con 2011:

FX ANNOUNCES 2011 COMIC-CON SCHEDULE

Casts & Creators of Archer, Wilfred, It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Sons Of Anarchy To Be Featured on Panels

LOS ANGELES, June 22, 2011 – FX has announced its 2011 Comic-Con schedule, as the network will feature four panels: Archer, Wilfred, It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Sons Of Anarchy, with Archer and Sunny screening brand new episodes before their respective panels.
Below is the complete schedule:

Thursday, July 21

Archer
Talent Attending Stars H. Jon Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Chris Parnell, Judy Greer, Amber Nash; Creator/Executive Producer Adam Reed

1:15pm – 2:30pm FOX Booth Signing
4:00pm – 5:00pm Screening & Panel, Room: Indigo (1700 seats)

Wilfred
Talent Attending Stars Elijah Wood, Jason Gann, Fiona Gubelman, Dorian Brown; Executive Producer David Zuckerman, Co-Executive Producer/Director Randall Einhorn

3:30pm – 4:45pm FOX Booth Signing
6:15pm – 7:30pm Panel, Room: 6A (1000 seats)

Sunday, July 24

It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia
Talent Attending Stars: Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, Danny DeVito

10:30am – 11:15am FOX Booth Signing
2:45pm – 3:30pm Panel & Screening, Room: Hall H (5000 seats)

Sons Of Anarchy
Talent Attending Stars Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal; Creator/Executive Producer Kurt Sutter

11:15am – noon FOX Booth Signing
3:30pm – 4:00pm Panel, Room: Hall H (5000 seats)

FX is the flagship general entertainment basic cable network from Fox. Launched in June of 1994, FX is carried in more than 99 million homes. The diverse schedule includes a growing roster of critically acclaimed and award-winning original series, an established film library of acquired box-office hit movies, and an impressive lineup of acquired hit series.

Comic-Con 2011: SHOWTIME Bringing DEXTER and SHAMELESS!

2011-06-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

Showtime has announced their Comic-Con line-up and here is the press release:

SHOWTIME’S HIT DRAMA SERIES DEXTER® AND SHAMELESS TO HEADLINE OPENING DAY OF COMIC-CON 2011

Panel Session For DEXTER and SHAMELESS Along With An Exclusive First-Look At The New SHOWTIME® Drama Series HOMELAND To Kick Off San Diego Comic-Con On Thursday, July 21

SHOWTIME has announced its panel line-up for the 2011 Comic-Con which will feature stars from some of the network’s biggest original series. This year’s panel will include the Emmy®-nominated series DEXTER, as well as the new hit series SHAMELESS. Additionally, SHOWTIME will premiere an exclusive first-look trailer of its new drama series HOMELAND starring Claire Danes, Damian Lewis and Morena Baccarin. The SHOWTIME panel will be presented on the first day of the world-famous gathering in San Diego on Thursday, July 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Ballroom 20. The SHOWTIME panel will include:

SHAMELESS:

Come party with the cast and creative team behind the critically-acclaimed new hit Showtime original series Shameless. If you thought your family was dysfunctional, wait until you meet the Gallaghers. Get the inside scoop on what’s in store for the new season as Mike Schneider (TV Guide Los Angeles Bureau Chief) leads an interview and Q&A with series stars William H. Macy (Frank) and Emmy Rossum (Fiona) and many more, along with executive producer John Wells.

HOMELAND EXCLUSIVE COMIC-CON TRAILER:

This fall, the war on terror comes home in the new Showtime original series Homeland from executive producers/writers Howard Gordon (24, The X-Files) and Alex Gansa (24) starring Claire Danes (Terminator 3), Damian Lewis (Band of Brothers, Life), Mandy Patinkin (The Princess Bride, Criminal Minds) and Morena Baccarin (V, Firefly). Comic-Con favorite Baccarin will make a special appearance to introduce the exclusive trailer from Homeland.

DEXTER SEASON SIX:

Comic-Con fans will be the first to see the exclusive world premiere of the new season’s trailer, then moderator Ralph Garman (KROQ Entertainment Reporter) will preside over a revealing interview and Q&A session with the stars and executive producers. Featured panelists include Michael C. Hall (series star/executive producer), series stars C.S. Lee (Vince Masuka) and David Zayas (Sgt. Angel Batista), guest star Colin Hanks (Peter Jackson’s King Kong, Roswell) and more. Also appearing, executive producers John Goldwyn, Sara Colleton, Scott Buck and Manny Coto.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD™, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

Comic-Con is really shaping up to be very exciting this year. I hope to see many of you there.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Warner Bros. Panels in Detail #WBSDCC

2011-06-21T13:37:00.000-06:00

Here is a detailed press release from Warner Bros. Television outlining their San Diego Comic-Con panels:

WARNER BROS. TELEVISION GROUP CONFIRMED COMIC-CON 2011 PANEL DESCRIPTIONS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20, 2011

6:00–9:00 p.m. Special Sneak Peek Pilot Screenings – Comic-Con and Warner Bros. Television proudly continue its annual preview night tradition, with exclusive world premiere screenings of the pilot episodes of three of the most highly anticipated TV series pilots of the 2011–12 television season — Alcatraz, Person of Interest and The Secret Circle — as well as Supernatural: The Anime Series, the first-ever anime adaptation of a U.S. television series. Ballroom 20

• From executive producer J.J. Abrams (Super 8, Fringe) and showrunner Elizabeth Sarnoff (Lost) comes Alcatraz, a chilling new drama revolving around America’s most infamous prison and onetime home to the nation’s worst criminals. The series stars Sarah Jones (Sons of Anarchy), Jorge Garcia (Lost), Jonny Coyne (Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life), Parminder Nagra (ER), Santiago Cabrera (Heroes), Jason Butler Harner (Fringe), with Robert Forster (Jackie Brown) and Sam Neill (Jurassic Park). Abrams, Bryan Burk (Super 8, Fringe) and Sarnoff are executive producers: Steven Lilien and Bryan Wynbrandt (both Kyle XY) are co-executive producers. Alcatraz will premiere in midseason and air Mondays 9/8c on FOX.

• Jim Caviezel (The Thin Red Line), Michael Emerson (Lost) and Taraji P. Henson (Hustle & Flow) team up in Person of Interest, a thought-provoking crime action-drama from The Dark Knight’s Jonathan Nolan and J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions (Super 8, Fringe). Set in New York City, with all of its multifaceted elements of justice (cops, criminals, corruption), this procedural centers on an ex-CIA agent, presumed dead, who partners with a mysterious billionaire to prevent violent crimes. Kevin Chapman (Rescue Me) also stars in the series, which is executive produced by Nolan, Abrams, Greg Plageman (Cold Case) and Bryan Burk (Super 8, Fringe). Person of Interest is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Bad Robot Productions and Warner Bros. Television. The series will air Thursdays at 9/8c on CBS this fall.

• The ordinary becomes the extraordinary in The Secret Circle, a romantic drama full of mystery, intrigue and danger from executive producer Kevin Williamson (The Vampire Diaries) and based upon the book series by L.J. Smith (The Vampire Diaries). The series chronicles the story of a young girl who discovers not only that she is a witch and part of a secret coven, but that she is the key which will unlock a centuries-old battle of good versus evil. Britt Robertson (Scream 4), Thomas Dekker (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles), Gale Harold (Queer as Folk), Shelley Hennig (Days of our Lives), Phoebe Tonkin (H20: Just Add Water), Louis Hunter (Out of the Blue), Jessica Parker Kennedy (Valemont), Ashley Crow (Heroes) and Natasha Henstridge (Species) star in the series, from executive producers Williamson, Leslie Morgenstein (The Vampire Diaries), Gina Girolamo (Alloy Entertainment), Andrew Miller (Nothing) and Richard Hatem (Supernatural). The Secret Circle will air Thursdays at 9/8c on The CW this fall.

• Warner Bros. Television’s hit series Supernatural (Fridays 9/8c, The CW) makes history this summer as Supernatural: The Anime Series is released in the United States, the first-ever live-action series to be re-imagined in Japanese anime style. Inspired by the U.S. series’ sensational following oversees, Warner Home Video Japan and renowned animation studio Madhouse — working with the full approval of series creator Eric Kripke — produced the anime series, which mirrors the story arc of Supernatural’s first two seasons, providing supplemental stories ranging from prequels and spin-offs to untold tales that fit within the Supernatural mythology. The all-new, 22-episode animated series will be distributed July 26 by Warner Home Video on Blu-ray™, DVD, On Demand and for Download.

FRIDAY, JULY 22, 2011

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

12:30–1:30 p.m. The Big Bang Theory Screening and Q&A – Dr., Dr., Dr., Dr., Dr., Mr., Miss… Join everyone’s favorite scientists (and engineer and waitress) from The Big Bang Theory as the show’s producers and stars return to San Diego with a special screening and Q&A. Executive producers Chuck Lorre (Two and a Half Men), Bill Prady (Dharma & Greg) and Steven Molaro (iCarly) will join stars Johnny Galecki (Roseanne), Jim Parsons (Garden State), Kaley Cuoco (Charmed), Simon Helberg (Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog), Kunal Nayyar (NCIS), Mayim Bialik (Blossom) and Melissa Rauch (True Blood) for a fun and lively discussion. From Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television, The Big Bang Theory airs Thursdays at 8/7c on CBS, and The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Fourth Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 13. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheBigBangTheory and follow the show on Twitter @BigBang_CBS. Ballroom 20

1:30–2:20 p.m. Childrens Hospital Screening and Q&A – Come watch a never-before-seen episode of Childrens Hospital and hear from the show’s creative team, led by series creator/star Rob Corddry (Cedar Rapids) and executive producer Jonathan Stern (The Ten). They will be joined by members of the show’s ensemble cast of comedic heavyweights, including Malin Akerman (Couples Retreat), Lake Bell (No Strings Attached), Erinn Hayes (Parenthood), Rob Huebel (I Love You Man) and Megan Mullally (Will & Grace). Childrens Hospital explores the emotional struggles and sexual politics of a group of doctors ruled by their healthy libidos. Produced by Abominable Pictures, Childrens Hospital airs Thursday nights at Midnight/11c on Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim. Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

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

3:30–4:30 p.m. ThunderCats Premiere Episode Screening and Q&A – Comic-Con, Ho! From the moment this series was announced, fans have answered the call — now, the wait is finally over as Warner Bros. Animation is proud to bring the fans at Comic-Con the world premiere of this all-new reimagining of the beloved ’80s franchise. Lion-O, Tygra, Panthro, Cheetara, Wily Kit, Wily Kat and Snarf are back! After the screening, producers Michael Jelenic (Batman: The Brave and the Bold) and Ethan Spaulding (Avatar: The Last Airbender), art director Dan Norton (G.I. Joe: Resolute) and members of the voice cast will discuss what viewers can expect in the first season of this exciting new series. ThunderCats premieres in a special one-hour episode on Friday, July 29 at 8/7c on Cartoon Network. Become a fan of ThunderCats on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thundercats. Room 6A

SATURDAY, JULY 23, 2011

10:00–10:45 a.m. Chuck Screening and Q&A – Comic Con fan-favorite Chuck returns with a bang for its farewell panel to celebrate its fifth and final season. Join executive producer and co-creator Chris Fedak, along with series stars Zachary Levi (Alvin and the Chipmunks), Yvonne Strahovski (upcoming My Mother’s Curse), Joshua Gomez (Without a Trace), Ryan McPartlin, Mark Christopher Lawrence (The Pursuit of Happyness), Vik Sahay (Good Will Hunting), Scott Krinsky (The O.C.) with Sarah Lancaster (The Good Doctor) and Adam Baldwin (Serenity), for a Q&A with fans and an unforgettable video presentation. Produced by Fake Empire, Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, Chuck airs Friday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, and Chuck: The Complete Fourth Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD this fall. Become a fan of Chuck on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chuck and follow the show on Twitter @nbcchuck. Ballroom 20

3:30–4:15 p.m. The Vampire Diaries Screening and Q&A – All the way from Mystic Falls, the cast and creative team behind The Vampire Diaries descend on Comic-Con for a third time! Series stars Nina Dobrev (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Paul Wesley (Roll Bounce), Ian Somerhalder (Lost), Candice Accola (Juno) and Joseph Morgan (Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World) join executive producers/writers Kevin Williamson (Scream) and Julie Plec (Kyle XY) to enthrall fans with a season two highlight reel and Q&A session. This edgy, romantic drama remains the number one series on The CW, and promises another round of twists, turns and “triangles” in season three. From Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Vampire Diaries will return for its third season on September 15, airing Thursdays at 8/7c on The CW, and The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Second Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD August 30. Become a fan of The Vampire Diaries on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thevampirediaries and follow The CW on Twitter @CW_network. Ballroom 20

4:15–5:00 p.m. Fringe Screening and Q&A – Fringe returns to Comic-Con with series stars Anna Torv, Lance Reddick, Blair Brown, Jasika Nicole and John Noble, and executive producers Jeff Pinkner and J.H. Wyman for a Q&A with fans and an exclusive video presentation. Delve into parallel universes and alternate doppelgangers and join the discussion about this critically acclaimed thriller as Fringe continues to explore otherworldly cases with endless impossibilities. From Bad Robot Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, Fringe airs Fridays at 9/8c on FOX, and Fringe: The Complete Third Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 6. Become a fan of Fringe on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Fringe and follow the show on Twitter @FRINGEonFOX. Ballroom 20

5:00–6:00 p.m. Alcatraz Pilot Screening and Q&A – Catch a special pilot screening of Alcatraz, a chilling new thriller centering on America’s most infamous prison and the mysterious return of its most notorious criminals. When an Alcatraz inmate is discovered walking the streets of present-day San Francisco, not having aged a bit since the 1960s, a sinister threat begins to unravel. Where have these prisoners been? Why are they back? After the screening, there will be a special Q&A with Alcatraz writer and executive producer Elizabeth Sarnoff (Lost) and series stars Sarah Jones (Sons of Anarchy) and Jorge Garcia (Lost). From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Bad Robot Productions and Warner Bros. Television, Alcatraz will air midseason on FOX. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AlcatrazonFOX. Ballroom 20

5:10–6:00 p.m. The Secret Circle Screening and Q&A – The coven is coming to Comic-Con! The Secret Circle series stars Britt Robertson (Scream 4), Thomas Dekker (Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles), Phoebe Tonkin (H20: Just Add Water) and Natasha Henstridge (Species) join executive producers/writers Kevin Williamson (The Vampire Diaries), Andrew Miller (Nothing) and Richard Hatem (Supernatural) for a screening of the pilot and Q&A session. The ordinary becomes extraordinary when the new girl in town, Cassie Blake, learns that she is part of a circle of young witches living in Chance Harbor, Washington. As Cassie discovers her abilities and adjusts to her new surroundings, she uncovers some of the town’s dark secrets … which may be tied to the death of her parents. Mystery, romance and danger await. From Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Secret Circle premieres September 15 and airs Thursdays at 9/8c on The CW. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesecretcircle and follow The CW on Twitter @CW_network. Room 6BCF

6:00–6:45 p.m. Nikita Screening and Q&A – Nikita returns to Comic-Con with series stars Maggie Q (Mission: Impossible 3), Shane West (ER), Lyndsy Fonseca (Kick-Ass) and executive producer Craig Silverstein (Bones) for its latest mission: to unveil an exclusive video presentation and reveal classified information from the highly anticipated second season that finds Nikita and Michael on the run with a black box containing the government’s darkest secrets. Leading the hunt for them is Alex ... and she knows all of Nikita’s tricks. What will the Comic-Con Q&A reveal? Nikita: The Complete First Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on August 30. From Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television, the second season of Nikita premieres September 23, and the series airs Fridays at 8/7c this fall on The CW. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nikita and follow The CW on Twitter @CW_network. Room 6BCF

6:45–7:30 p.m. Person of Interest Pilot Screening and Q&A – A peerless creative team is behind this new white-knuckle action series — including creator/executive producer Jonathan Nolan (The Dark Knight) and showrunner/executive producer Greg Plageman (Cold Case) — about an ex-CIA agent, presumed dead, who partners with a mysterious billionaire to prevent violent crimes in New York City. Join these producers plus stars Jim Caviezel (The Thin Red Line), Michael Emerson (Lost) and Taraji P. Henson (Academy Award© nominee for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) for an inside look at one of the most anticipated new shows of the fall season, including an exclusive screening of the pilot episode and Q&A. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Bad Robot Productions and Warner Bros. Television, Person of Interest will air Thursdays at 9/8c on CBS. Become a fan of the show on Facebook. Room 6BCF

SUNDAY, JULY 24, 2011

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

11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Supernatural Screening and Q&A – For the first time ever, the Supernatural panel will be in Hall H! Join series stars Jared Padalecki (Friday the 13th [2009]) and Jensen Ackles (My Bloody Valentine 3D) and additional cast members and executive producers for an exclusive sneak peek at footage from the highly anticipated seventh season of this thrill-ride series. The panel will answer questions from the audience; show a portion of the special features from the upcoming Supernatural: The Complete Sixth Season DVD and Blu-ray™ release, in stores September 13; and give Comic-Con fans a sneak peek at Supernatural: The Anime Series, coming to DVD and Blu-ray™ on July 26. The seventh season of Supernatural premieres September 23, airing Fridays at 9/8c on The CW. The series is produced by Wonderland Sound and Vision in association with Warner Bros. Television. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Supernatural and follow The CW on Twitter @CW_network. Hall H

1:00–2:00 p.m. Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Screening and Q&A – The gang from Crystal Cove is packing up its best traps and bringing them to San Diego, and it’s no mystery as to why fans have embraced this most recent take on Scooby-Doo from Warner Bros. Animation. Join supervising producers Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone (both Duck Dodgers) and producer Mitch Watson (Ben 10: Race Against Time) for a special screening of the first season finale and a lively panel on the adventures that await Scooby, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne and Velma in season two. Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated airs Tuesdays at 7:30/6:30c on Cartoon Network and the original movie Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur will be released on DVD September 13. Become a fan of Scooby-Doo on Facebook at www.facebook.com/scoobydoo. Room 6A

2:15–3:15 p.m. The Looney Tunes Show Screening and Q&A – Comic-Con can be a crazy place, but it’s about to get Looney. After an extended break from the limelight, animation’s favorite mismatched duo Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck (along with all your other favorite Looney Tunes characters) return in The Looney Tunes Show, an all-new animated half-hour comedy series from Warner Bros. Animation. Following a special screening, the laughs continue when supervising producers Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone (both Duck Dodgers), story editor Hugh Davidson, writer Rachel Ramras and other members of the creative team will take the stage to answer your questions. Just don’t ask them, “Eh, what’s up, Doc?” From Warner Bros. Animation, The Looney Tunes Show airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on Cartoon Network. Become a fan of The Looney Tunes Show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/looneytunes. Room 6A

Comic-Con 2011: Warner Bros. Television Announces Schedule #WBSDCC

2011-06-21T13:19:00.000-06:00

Last year at Comic-Con, Warner Bros. had an incredible presence and it looks like this year will be no different. I was lucky enough to be able to cover some of their press rooms and made sure to attend panels and check out their amazing booth on the exhibition floor. Follow the links to see previously portroided guests. Here is their schedule for this year and it looks to be pretty awesome:

WARNER BROS. TELEVISION GROUP ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL: SAN DIEGO

Stars and Producers of “The Big Bang Theory,” “Chuck,” “Fringe,” “Nikita,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Alcatraz,” “Person of Interest,” “The Secret Circle,” “Childrens Hospital,” “Green Lantern: The Animated Series,” “The Looney Tunes Show,” “MAD,” “Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated,” “ThunderCats” and “Young Justice” To Appear

Warner Bros. Entertainment’s Nearly 3,000-Square-Foot Booth to Host Signings, Special Events, Digitally Driven Fan Giveaways and More

The clock is ticking, and Comic-Con is right around the corner! By bringing 16 series to Comic-Con International: San Diego, Warner Bros. Television Group (WBTVG) further strengthens its presence at the world’s leading pop culture convention — and will deliver a one-of-a-kind experience for fans in the process. The anticipation is building as a star-studded lineup of performers and producers from Warner Bros. Television and Warner Bros. Animation series prepare for a robust schedule of panel sessions, screenings, media appearances and autograph signings.

For continuing info on the Studio’s plans at Comic-Con, please follow us on Twitter @TheWBdotcom, hashtag #WBSDCC, and visit www.thewb.com/comiccon
PLEASE NOTE: Series stars and creative teams scheduled to attend are subject to change.

RETURNING FAVORITES

“The Big Bang Theory”: Stars Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch join creators/executive producers Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, and executive producer Steven Molaro

“Chuck”: Stars Zachary Levi, Yvonne Strahovski, Joshua Gomez, Ryan McPartlin, Mark Christopher Lawrence, Vik Sahay, Scott Krinsky with Sarah Lancaster and Adam Baldwin join co-creator/executive producer Chris Fedak for a panel to discuss the fan-favorite spy series’ final season

“Fringe”: Stars Anna Torv, Lance Reddick, Blair Brown, Jasika Nicole and John Noble join executive producers Jeff Pinkner and J.H. Wyman

“Nikita”: Stars Maggie Q, Shane West and Lyndsy Fonseca join executive producer Craig Silverstein

“Supernatural”: Series stars Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles will topline the panel, held this year for the first time ever in Hall H. Additional cast members and executive producers to be announced.

“The Vampire Diaries”: Stars Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, Ian Somerhalder, Candice Accola and Joseph Morgan join executive producers/writers Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec

“Childrens Hospital”: Star/executive producer Rob Corddry and executive producers Jonathan Stern join stars Malin Akerman, Lake Bell, Erinn Hayes, Rob Huebel and Megan Mullally

NEW SERIES
“Alcatraz”: Stars Sarah Jones and Jorge Garcia join executive producer Elizabeth Sarnoff

“Person of Interest”: Stars Jim Caviezel, Michael Emerson and Taraji P. Henson join executive producers Jonathan Nolan and Greg Plageman

“The Secret Circle”: Stars Britt Robertson, Thomas Dekker, Phoebe Tonkin and Natasha Henstridge join executive producers/writers Kevin Williamson, Andrew Miller and Richard Hatem

WARNER BROS. ANIMATION

“Green Lantern: The Animated Series”: Executive producer Bruce Timm will join producer Giancarlo Volpe and producer/story editor Jim Krieg for a panel moderated by executive producer/Warner Bros. Animation’s Sam Register

“The Looney Tunes Show”: Supervising producers Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone, story editor Hugh Davidson and writer Rachel Ramras

“MAD”: “MAD” television show producers Kevin Shinick and Mark Marek, along with MAD magazine editor John Ficarra, art director Sam Viviano and “Spy vs. Spy” artist Peter Kuper

“Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated”: Supervising producers Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone and producer Mitch Watson

“ThunderCats”: Producers Michael Jelenic and Ethan Spaulding, and art director Dan Norton

“Young Justice”: Producers Brandon Vietti and Greg Weisman, and lead character designer Phil Bourassa

THE BOOTH

And it wouldn’t be Comic-Con without a visit to the Warner Bros. booth. The Studio will once again have a can’t-miss, nearly 3,000-square-foot destination on the convention floor, at space #4545. Anchored by the iconic Warner Bros. Water Tower, the booth is a must-visit location for autograph signings, multiple interactive kiosks for fans to play video games from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, and much, much more. Stay tuned to @TheWBdotcom on Twitter or www.thewb.com/comiccon in the coming weeks for more details about activities at the booth.

SPECIAL SNEAK PEEK PILOT SCREENINGS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 • 6–9 PM • BALLROOM 20

WBTVG continues its Comic-Con tradition of hosting a special sneak peek premiere event on preview night. This year, the Studio is offering fans the opportunity to see some of the most anticipated new premieres of the year.

“Alcatraz”: Executive producers J.J. Abrams and Elizabeth Sarnoff deliver a chilling new midseason drama for FOX revolving around America’s most infamous prison, the one-time home to the nation’s worst murderers, rapists, kidnappers, thieves and arsonists.

“The Secret Circle”: The ordinary becomes extraordinary in this romantic drama about a coven of young witches, from “The Vampire Diaries” executive producer Kevin Williamson, based upon the book series by L.J. Smith (“The Vampire Diaries”).

“Person of Interest”: From J.J. Abrams and “The Dark Knight” co-writer Jonathan Nolan comes an action-packed hour for CBS about an ex-CIA operative and a mysterious billionaire who team up to stop violent crimes before they happen in New York City.

“Supernatural: The Anime Series”: The popular series “Supernatural” makes history this summer as the first-ever live-action show to be re-imagined in Japanese anime style. Renowned animation studio Madhouse — working with the full approval of series creator Eric Kripke — produced the anime series, which mirrors the story arc of “Supernatural’s” first two seasons, providing supplemental stories ranging from prequels and spin-offs to untold tales that fit within the “Supernatural” mythology.

THE TV SERIES SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JULY 22

“MAD”: 10:00–11:00 a.m., Room 25ABC

“The Big Bang Theory”: 12:30–1:30 p.m., Ballroom 20

“Childrens Hospital”: 1:30–2:20 p.m., Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

“Green Lantern: The Animated Series”: 2:00–3:00 p.m., Room 6BCF

“ThunderCats”: 3:30–4:30 p.m., Room 6A

SATURDAY, JULY 23

“Chuck”: 10:00–10:45 a.m., Ballroom 20

“The Vampire Diaries”: 3:30–4:15 p.m., Ballroom 20

“Fringe”: 4:15–5:00 p.m., Ballroom 20

“Alcatraz”: 5:00–6:00 p.m., Ballroom 20

“The Secret Circle”: 5:10–6:00 p.m., Room 6BCF

“Nikita”: 6:00–6:45 p.m., Room 6BCF

“Person of Interest”: 6:45–7:30 p.m., Room 6BCF

SUNDAY, JULY 24

“Young Justice”: 10:00–11:00 a.m., Room 7AB

“Supernatural”: 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m., Hall H

“Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated”: 1:00–2:00 p.m., Room 6A

“The Looney Tunes Show”: 2:15–3:15 p.m., Room 6A

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Fox Broadcasting Announces Participation

2011-06-18T16:13:00.001-06:00

Fox Broadcasting announced which shows and stars they're bringing to Comic-Con International in San Diego on their Facebook page, and it's a lot! See post below (including links to previously-portroided guests):

San Diego Comic-Con fans get pumped! Your favorite FOX shows are coming to the convention!

Cast members, creators and executive producers from Napoleon Dynamite, Bones, Bob's Burgers, Terra Nova, The Simpsons, Family Guy, American Dad, Glee, Allen Gregory and The Cleveland Show will be in attendance to give fans exclusive sneak peeks, debut never-before-seen footage and answer fan questions!

Also, don’t forget to stop by the 20th Century FOX booth for an incredible line-up of star-studded autograph signings and exciting booth activities including exclusive 2011 Fox Fanfare Poster Tubes, collectibles and giveaways.

And even more surprises, stars, sessions and properties will be announced in the weeks to come so stay tuned!

THURSDAY, JULY 21:

Napoleon Dynamite:
Original cast members from the hit indie film, Jon Heder, Tina Majorino, Efren Ramirez, Jon Gries, Sandy Martin, Diedrich Bader and Executive Producer Mike Scully (The Simpsons) present a new series following your favorite awkward teenager like you’ve never seen him before – animated! Join us for a sneak peek at never-before-seen footage of the newest member of FOX’s Animation Domination lineup and a “sweet” Q&A session.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/NapoleonDynamite
Follow on Twitter: @NapoleononFOX

FRIDAY, JULY 22:

Bones:
Creator/Executive Producer Hart Hanson, Executive Producer Stephen Nathan and Stars David Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel will be on hand to discuss the shocking finale of Bones season 6 as well as what’s in store for Booth and Brennan in an exciting season 7! Hart Hanson will also introduce the audience to the stars of The Finder, his new Fox series premiering in January, followed by fan Q&A.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/Bones
Follow on Twitter: @BONESonFOX

Bob’s Burgers:
Creator/Executive Producer Loren Bouchard and Executive Producer Jim Dauterive and Bob’s Burgers cast H. Jon Benjamin, John Roberts, Dan Mintz, Eugene Mirman and Kristen Schaal, will be on hand to entertain animation fans with hilarious never-before-seen clips from season two followed by a fan Q&A.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/BobsBurgers
Follow on Twitter: @BobsBurgersFOX

SATURDAY, JULY 23:

Terra Nova:
Star Stephen Lang (Avatar), executive producer Rene Echevarria (Castle, Medium, The 4400, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), executive producer Brannon Braga (24, Star Trek: Enterprise) and co-executive producer Jose Molina will finally unveil this epic adventure series 85 million years in the making, set to premiere this September on Fox. This new event drama from the brilliant minds of Steven Spielberg (Jurassic Park, The Pacific) and Peter Chernin follows an ordinary family on an extraordinary journey back in time to prehistoric Earth as a part of a massive expedition to save the human race.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/TerraNovaonFOX
Follow on Twitter: @TerraNovaonFOX

The Simpsons:
Now entering its record-annihilating 23rd season on Fox, and airing its landmark 500th episode on February 19, 2012, The Simpsons has won 27 Emmy awards, was the subject of an international film smash in 2007, inspired a ride you ride again at Universal Studios, and Homer Simpson was named the greatest television character of the last 20 years by Entertainment Weekly. Get an insight into the daily doings of this series from Creator Matt Groening, Showrunner Al Jean, Co-Executive Producer Rob Lazebnik, Co-Executive Producer Matt Warburton, Supervising Producer Mike Anderson and Producer/Panel Moderator Tom Gammill.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/TheSimpsons

Family Guy:
Join Alex Borstein, Seth Green, Adam West (Batman) and executive producers Mark Hentemann, Steve Callaghan and Kara Vallow for a sneak peek at the all-new episode “Stewie Goes For A Drive” featuring voice guest star Ryan Reynolds followed by a Q&A session with the audience.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/FamilyGuy
Follow on Twitter: @FamilyGuyonFOX

American Dad:
Catch a preview of the season seven premiere of American Dad, featuring guest star Cee-Lo Green as a signing hot tub, followed by a Q&A with cast members Wendy Schaal, Scott Grimes, Rachael MacFarlane and Dee Bradley Baker and executive producers Mike Barker, Matt Weitzman and Kara Vallow.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/AmericanDad

SUNDAY, JULY 24:

GLEE:
Join Creator/Executive Producer Ryan Murphy and Creator/Executive Producer Brad Falchuk and stars of the sensation Glee for a tuneful sneak peek at never-before-seen footage and behind-the-scenes secrets, followed by a Q&A session in which fans can ask everything they ever wanted to know about the Golden Globe winning musical series hot off its blockbuster international concert tour.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/Glee
Follow on Twitter: @GLEEonFOX

Allen Gregory:
Join Creator/Executive Producer and star Jonah Hill (Superbad, Get Him to the Greek) Showrunner David Goodman (Family Guy), and Creators/Executive Producers Andrew Mogel and Jarrad Paul along with an all-star voice cast for a sneak peek at FOX’s new animated series that tells the story of the most pretentious 7-year-old of our time. Glimpse exclusive Allen Gregory animation followed by a fan Q&A session.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/AllenGregoryonFOX
Follow on Twitter: @AllenGregoryFOX

The Cleveland Show:
Join the cast and executive producers for a look at The Cleveland Show’s not-to-be-missed parody of Die Hard followed by a discussion with panelists Mike Henry, Sanaa Lathan, Kevin Michael Richardson, Reagan Gomez, Rich Appel and Kara Vallow.

Like on Facebook: http://facebook.com/TheClevelandShow
Follow on Twitter: @ClevelandonFOX

Can't make it to Comic-Con? That's ok! There will be LIVE updates, photos and videos from panels, press opportunities, and additional live events and parties that will be viewable from the FOX show pages.

We at portroids.com will cover as much of this as we can. Follow us here on portroids.blogspot.com, on twitter, on tumblr, on flickr, and on facebook.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: HBO will have panels for "True Blood" and "Game of Thrones"

2011-06-17T15:18:00.001-06:00

Press Release from HBO regarding the two shows they are bringing to San Diego Comic-Con 2011:

HBO’s “True Blood” and “Game Of Thrones” to Hold Panels at Comic-Con 2011
HBO is excited to announce that TRUE BLOOD will make its fourth consecutive appearance at Comic-Con in San Diego this July. Additionally, Game Of Thrones will make its debut this year at Comic-Con, just days before production on season two begins in Northern Ireland. The Game Of Thrones panel is slated for Thursday, July 21, and the TRUE BLOOD panel is scheduled for Friday, July 22. Confirmed panelists to date are listed below. Additional panelists will be announced as they are confirmed.

Game Of Thrones – Thursday, July 21

Special Guest Moderator – George R.R. Martin
David Benioff
D.B. Weiss
Emilia Clarke
Peter Dinklage
Kit Harington
Jason Momoa
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

TRUE BLOOD – Friday, July 22
Moderator – Entertainment Weekly’s Tim Stack
Alan Ball
Anna Paquin
Stephen Moyer
Sam Trammell
Ryan Kwanten
Rutina Wesley
Kevin Alejandro
Kristin Bauer van Straten
Nelsan Ellis
Joe Manganiello
Deborah Ann Woll

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2011: Summit Entertainment brings Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Darkest Hour, The Three Musketeers

2011-06-17T15:07:00.000-06:00

Summit Entertainment posted their Comic-Con 2011 press release on their Facebook page. Here it is:

SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT SHOWCASES 2011 FILM RELEASES AT COMIC-CON® INTERNATIONAL IN SAN DIEGO

Los Angeles, CA June 13, 2011 – For the fourth year in a row, Summit Entertainment will provide the Comic-Con® International audience with a unique, interactive booth experience featuring films from the studio’s upcoming slate, including an action adventure update of the beloved THE THREE MUSKETEERS, the alien invasion thriller THE DARKEST HOUR with effects from visionary filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov, and the highly anticipated THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1.
Those who stop by will be able to speak live via phone with select actors and filmmakers from Summit films, as well as participate in contests and giveaways. The authors of three novels that Summit Entertainment is bringing to life on the big screen will also complete autograph signings at the booth.

Erin Morgenstern is the author of NIGHT CIRCUS, a novel about 19th century teenage illusionists.

Isaac Marion is the author of WARM BODIES, in which an existentially tormented zombie begins an unlikely romance with the girlfriend of one of his victims. Jonathan Levine is attached to direct, with Nicholas Hoult (X-MEN: FIRST CLASS) and Teresa Palmer (I AM NUMBER FOUR) attached to star.

Veronica Roth is the 22-year-old author of DIVERGENT, which launched on the New York Times best-seller list. In the dystopic future of DIVERGENT, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to a particular virtue: honesty, selflessness, bravery, peacefulness, or intelligence.

In addition to Summit’s booth presence at Comic-Con®, the studio will also host one of the first panels of the day in Hall H on Thursday, July 21st dedicated to THE TWILIGHT SAGA franchise. Fans interested in the story’s final chapters will be shown exclusive footage from THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 and be treated to a filmmaker and cast Q&A session providing details on the first half of the epic two part finale, in theatres November 18, 2011.

For further information on Summit Entertainment’s activities at Comic-Con® International, follow @SummitEnt on Twitter.

About Summit Entertainment, LLC

Summit Entertainment, LLC is a worldwide theatrical motion picture development, financing, production and distribution studio. The studio handles all aspects of marketing and distribution for both its own internally developed motion pictures as well as acquired pictures. Summit Entertainment, LLC also represents international sales for both its own slate and third party product. Summit Entertainment, LLC releases on average 10 to 12 films annually.

Comic-Con 2011: STARZ bringing "Spartacus: Vengeance" and "Torchwood: Miracle Day"

2011-06-16T11:10:00.001-06:00

Exciting news from STARZ today. They are bringing "Spartacus: Vengeance" and the Doctor Who spin-off "Torchwood: Miracle Day" to San Diego Comic-Con in July. Here is the press release (including a couple links to previously-portroided participants):

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STARZ TO FEATURE 'TORCHWOOD' AND 'SPARTACUS' AT 2011 COMIC-CON ON FRIDAY, JULY 22ND

Cast of Highly Anticipated Series, 'Torchwood: Miracle Day,' Including Stars John Barrowman, Eve Myles, Bill Pullman, Mekhi Phifer, Alexa Havins, Lauren Ambrose and Writer Jane Espenson To Appear on Panel at 10am PT/Room 20; Special Advanced Screening of Episode 103 of Series on Thursday, July 21st at 9:30pm PT in Room 6DE

Liam McIntyre, Star of 'Spartacus: Vengeance' To Be Introduced to Fans at 5:45pm PT/Room 6BCF Along with Fellow Leads Dustin Clare, Lucy Lawless, Manu Bennett, Katrina Law and EP Steven S. DeKnight

For Immediate Release - STARZ will bring the casts of two of its most riveting original series, "Torchwood: Miracle Day" and "Spartacus: Vengeance" to 2011 San Diego Comic-Con on Friday, July 22nd, it was announced today. For "Torchwood: Miracle Day," set to debut on STARZ, Friday, July 8th at 10pm ET/PT, the panel will feature: Torchwood alum John Barrowman (Capt. Jack Harkness), Eve Myles (Gwen Cooper), and new headliners Bill Pullman (Oswald Danes), Mekhi Phifer (Rex Matheson), Alexa Havins (Ester Drummand), Lauren Ambrose (Jilly Kitzinger) and writer Jane Espenson. Highlights of the "Spartacus: Vengeance" panel (slated to premiere on STARZ in 2012) will include fans' first-ever opportunity to meet the new Spartacus, Liam McIntyre (Spartacus), along with stars Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), Dustin Clare (Gannicus), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Katrina Law (Mira) and Executive Producer and Head Writer Steven S. DeKnight.
On Thursday, July 21 at 9:30pm PT, the eve of the panels, STARZ will screen a never-before-seen "Torchwood: Miracle Day" episode entitled "Night of Dead" in room 6DE. This episode premieres on STARZ the following day, Friday, July 22 at 10pm ET/PT.

About "Torchwood: Miracle Day": Premiering July 8 at 10pm ET/PT

Imagine a day when nobody dies. All across the world, nobody dies. And then the next day, and the next, and the next, people keep aging. They get hurt and sick but they never die. This is the extraordinary premise of the highly-anticipated STARZ original drama series, "Torchwood: Miracle Day," produced by BBC Worldwide Productions for STARZ, BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Worldwide. The new series, premiering on STARZ on July 8 at 10pm ET/PT, features Torchwood alumni John Barrowman, Eve Myles, and Kai Owen and new headliners, Mekhi Phifer, Alexa Havins and Bill Pullman. Special guest starring actors in the cult sensation include: Arlene Tur ("Crash," Eat Pray Love) and Lauren Ambrose ("Six Feet Under," The Other Woman). The 10-episode, hour-long series will also feature an impressive list of guest stars: Wayne Knight ("Seinfeld," Jurassic Park), C. Thomas Howell ("Southland," The Outsiders), Ernie Hudson ("OZ," Ghostbusters), Nana Visitor ("Star Trek: Deep Space Nine"), John DeLancie ("Star Trek: The Next Generation"), Mare Winningham (Mildred Pierce, George Wallace) and Frances Fisher (Titanic, The Lincoln Lawyer). The show's original creator, writer/producer Russell T Davies, serves as executive producer along with BBC Worldwide Productions' SVP Julie Gardner, with Davies also serving as show-runner. "Torchwood: Miracle Day" is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions for Starz, BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Worldwide.

About "Spartacus: Vengeance" (Premiering 2012)

From the time "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" debuted on Starz in January 2010, it established itself as an epic production with rich storytelling and visuals unlike anything seen previously on any TV show. Also starring John Hannah as Batiatus, Lucy Lawless as Lucretia, Peter Mensah as Doctore, Manu Bennett as Crixus and Viva Bianca as Ilythia, "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" was one of the most talked-about and best-loved TV shows of 2010. Season two of the series finds Spartacus and his fellow gladiators now out of Capua and engaged in the massive slave rebellion against Roman society that has echoed through time. "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena," the six-part prequel that told the story of the House of Batiatus gladiator school, and the intricate personal, sexual and political maneuverings in Capua five years before "Blood and Sand" was set, debuted in January 2011.
In season two of the popular series, Liam McIntyre takes over the role of the Thracian warrior sold into slavery in the Roman Republic city of Capua - where he rises to become the champion of the city - before leading the slave revolt that ended the first season. The part was played in the first season by acclaimed Andy Whitfield, who was forced to leave the show due to health issues. "Spartacus: Vengeance" recently began production in New Zealand.

About Starz Entertainment
Starz Entertainment, LLC, is a premium movie and original programming entertainment service provider operating in the United States. The company offers 17 premium channels including the flagship STARZ® and ENCORE® brands with approximately 18.8 million and 33.1 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment airs in total more than 1,000 movies and original series every month across its pay TV channels. Starz Entertainment is recognized as a pay TV leader in providing HD, On Demand, HD On Demand and online advanced services for its STARZ, ENCORE and MOVIEPLEX brands. Starz Entertainment (http://www.starz.com/) is an operating unit of Starz, LLC, which is a controlled subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation and is attributed to the Liberty Starz tracking stock group (NASDAQ: LSTZA).

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Tribeca Film Festival starts next week!

2011-04-12T16:28:00.000-06:00

Hello.

Individual tickets for the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival went on sale today for American Express card holders. I attended one weekend of this festival last year and covered some of the events and red carpets for portroids.com and had a fantastic time. If you plan to be in New York at all from April 20 - May 1, 2011, pick some films, panels, talks, and events and attend. You won't be sorry!

This year I will be in New York for the final three days of the festival and hope to get some great portroids and go to some fun/interesting/educational/thought-provoking films and events. See you there!

Here are the portroids I took at the 2010 Tribeca Film Festival:

At the red carpet for the ESPN Films 30 For 30 documentary "Straight Outta L.A.":

Journalist Chris Connelly

Rapper/actor/director Ice Cube

Director Joel Schumacher

At the red carpet for the 10th anniversary screening and panel of "Memento":

Actor Guy Pearce

Writer Jonathan Nolan

Before the red carpet for the film "Just Like Us":

Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco

From the Tribeca Drive-In event for the film "The Birth of Big Air":

One of the athletes from the film "Murderball", Mark Zupan

Actor and Jackass star Johnny Knoxville

From the red carpet for the film "sex & drugs & rock & roll":

Actor Andy Serkis

From the Tribeca Talks: Pen To Paper: New York Stories event:

Actor Hill Harper

Writer/director Dana Adam Shapiro

Actor Chris Messina

Entertainer Joey Arias

Photographer/director Bobby Sheehan

NY1 reporter Budd Mishkin

Director C. Scott Willis

See you in New York!

Rick
rick@portroids.com

Vail Film Festival 2011 PORTROIDS!!!

2011-04-04T20:58:00.001-06:00

Every year I have a great time at the Vail Film Festival, and this year was no exception. Before I post a full review, and as a special treat for portroids' blog readers, I am posting up the portroids from the event here first (if you don't count the twitpic I posted of a grouping of 9 of the 12 portroids while I was at the festival (I don't count that, so you shouldn't either)). Enjoy!!

Renegade Award recipient: Michael Imperioli

Festival photographer: Vadim Elkind

Festival host: Bill LeVasseur

Star of the short film "Love is Retarded": Greg Pitts

Festival videographer/photographer: Michael Howard

Writer / director / actor from "Love is Retarded": Bill Escudier

Plum TV host: Erik Williams

Featured actor from "Love is Retarded" short film: Oscar Nunez

Yoga instructor / my previous VFF media contact and his boyfriend: Sam Chafos and Chad Trewick

Vangaurd Award recipient: Josh Lucas

Festival co-founders: Sean Cross and Scott Cross

Excellence in Acting Award recipient: Kate Bosworth

There you go! Come back later for a review of the festival. Here's a spoiler: it was excellent.

Kind Regards,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Yessss!! That's Impossible!!

2011-02-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

As anyone who loves Polaroid knows, The Impossible Project has been working dilligently on producing a viable replacement for the discontinued Polaroid film since Polaroid decided to discontinue it.

I recently tested out some of their latest creation, PZ600 Silver Shade UV+, and loved the result!

The instructions indicate a need to cover the image directly as it ejects from the camera, and I did just that for my first test shot (of my wife looking very serious (unposted)) and the next three shots (posted below). My fifth shot (of me and my dog (unposted)) I let sit in full light and there was only a little bit of a more brightened border. This bodes well for portroids, since covering the shot hinders the ability to have it autographed (though for the Kevin Allison one below I had him sign after it developed fully).

Anyway, check out the Impossibles below and buy some of the film to try for yourself. I think you'll really enjoy it (if I know you at all (which I probably don't (but try it anyway))).

From the Never Not Funny podcast (L to R: Matt Belknap, Jimmy Pardo, Pat Francis)

SF Sketchfest founders (L to R: Janet Varney, Cole Stratton, David Owen)

After our Portroidcast interview before his RISK show, comedian Kevin Allison

Like I said, try this film out. It is very cool (and you want to be cool, don't you? (of course you do)).

Love,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Ironic Book Club

2011-02-21T15:35:00.001-07:00

Hello.

Just a quick announcement about a fun online project. It's a blog and podcast called the Ironic Book Club. It just started and is great. Give it a read, listen, follow, and like.

Blog
Podcast
Twitter
Facebook

The first selection in their book club was Justin Bieber's "First Step 2 Forever: My Story", and the second is "Kardashian Konfidential" by Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe Kardashian.

Check it out!

Goodbye.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

Portroids book for Pardcast-A-Thon 2010!

2011-01-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

In support of the charity Smile Train, and in connection with the Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 12-hour marathon podcast by the guys at Never Not Funny, we at portroids.com, in connection with LA-based comedy photographer Liezl Estipona, have put together a book to commemorate the event and to raise money for the charity.

Please check it out and buy your copy before they sell out.

Rick
rick@portroids.com

SF Sketchfest 2011!!!

2011-01-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

Next week marks the beginning of SF Sketchfest 2011, and like all previous years, this one, too, promises to be amazing. Go check the schedule now and buy some tickets for any and all shows that look like fun to you, and then buy some that you've never even heard of, as those will be fun, too. Trust me. I've probably never steered you wrong.

Sketchfest runs from January 13 to February 5, 2011. That is a lot of time for you to get to San Francisco and get to a show, so don't let me down. Not again.

I'm not even going to tell you all the incredible shows and comedians and sketch groups and tributes that you can see at this year's festival. Like I said before, look at the schedule to see what they are. I'm begging you!

What I will do, because you are so nice, is give you a sampling of who will be there, via portroids taken over the past 7.5 years (many at SF Sketchfests past).

See? Awesome, right? That's not even close to all the amazing people who are part of this year's festival. You should attend.

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 Portroids Up For Auction!

2010-12-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

Currently up for auction are the 27 official portroids I took backstage at Never Not Funny's charity Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 to benefit Smile Train.

Other than these batched photos, these portroids will not be posted anywhere online by me (the winner of the auction has the right to post them wherever they like (though I would hope not in any nefarious way))

Go to ebay now to bid! Auction ends at 11 AM (PST) on December 27, 2010.

Thanks!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Pardcast-A-Thon 2010!!

2010-11-12T13:53:00.003-07:00

Attention: Everyone In The World!!!

Once again this year on the day after Thanksgiving (America's Black Friday! November 26! 2010!) starting at 6 PM (Pacific Time (9 PM Eastern)) and running for 12 hours to 6 AM (Pacific Time (9 AM Eastern)) Saturday morning (November 27! 2010!), the good people at Never Not Funny will be doing a podcast marathon for charity. The charity is Smile Train. The good people are Jimmy Pardo, Matt Belknap, and Pat Francis (all of whom you've seen on portroids.com and heard on the portroidcast).

It's the PARDCAST-A-THON 2010!!!

Jimmy, Matt, and Pat will be streaming live, and for free, their award winning podcast, Never Not Funny, with tons of surprise guests overnight for 12 hours. Please listen and donate to a great cause.

This year's event is being held at Acme Comedy Club (which has already reached capacity for the in-house audience) and will be streaming online at pardcast.com, UStream, and Acme's website (links to be provided when available). (Update 11/19: Pat Francis has started posting a video every day leading up to Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 - watch them here!)

Of special interest to Portroid fans: I will be there taking portroids of all the guests and offering up, for the first time EVER, the original signed Polaroids for auction at the conclusion of the event. All proceeds to benefit Smile Train. These original portroids will NOT be posted on my site (or anywhere else online where my work is seen) and will be a truly original keepsake of Pardcast-A-Thon 2010.

There will also be 10 copies of a specially-produced and extremely-limited hardcover book featuring those Pardcast-A-Thon 2010 portroids, along with photos taken throughout the event by LA-based photographer Liezl Estipona, to be distributed as donor incentive by Jimmy, Matt, and Pat as they see fit during the course of the Never Not Funny charity podcast marathon.

There's no telling who may show up!! (though a few comedians have already leaked their participation: Dave Holmes, Jen Kirkman, and Doug Benson, and rumors abound of past NNF guests making appearances (Conan O'Brien? Andy Richter? Jon Hamm once again? Kevin Pollak? Ty Burrell?)) (11/15 Update: some special guests were just announced on Christine E. Taylor's blog. Find out who here!) Be sure to listen and donate on November 26-27, 2010!!

Last year's Pardcast-A-Thon featured:

Jimmy Pardo

Matt Belknap

Pat Francis

Jon Hamm

Chris Hardwick

Janet Varney

Greg Behrendt

Paul Gilmartin

Maria Bamford

Scott Aukerman

... and hitherto unportroided guests:

Danielle Koenig
Todd Levin
Rachel Quaintence
Rich Sommer
Dan Kaufman
Oscar Nunez
Brody Stevens
Jordan Morris
Jimmy Dore

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Mid-Portroid Photo from 33rd Starz Denver Film Festival Red Carpet

2010-11-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

Photo copyright Ann Reisenbigler

I found this cool picture online of me and Aaron Eckhart mid-portroiding. You can see the original on flickr.

33SDFF Underway!!

2010-11-05T10:38:00.001-06:00

As promised by the ceaseless course of time, the 33rd Starz Denver Film Festival is already upon us and well begun. If you have not yet partaken, you have missed two great events thus far, but fear not! The schedule for the remaining 9 days is jam packed with awesomeness, and you should do your level best to engage in it.

If you attended Opening Night and Opening Night (2), then you know November 3 and 4 were quite extraordinary. The first Opening Night (official) included a red carpet and screening of the film "Rabbit Hole", as well as the Excellence in Acting Award for Aaron Eckhart. Here are some portroids I took at the event:

Aaron Eckhart, actor, on the red carpet at the Starz Denver Film Festival

John Cameron Mitchell, director, on the red carpet at the Starz Denver Film Festival

Britta Erickson, Festival Director, on the red carpet

Last night was the second Opening Night. This time for the opening of the new Denver FilmCenter on Colfax. It is the new headquarters for the Denver Film Society and quite a beautiful venue. There was a red carpet and two films screened. "Casino Jack" and "Morning". Here are some relevant portroids:

Leland Orser, director of "Morning", on the red carpet

Elliott Gould, actor ("Morning") and recipient of the Cassavettes Award

Governor-elect, Mayor John Hickenlooper, presenting for "Casino Jack" (this photo from 31st Starz Denver Film Festival)

Jenny Bloom, PR/Media Relations, at the Denver FilmCenter on Colfax

Now you may be wondering what films you should see over the next week +. Well, my friend, here are some that I have seen, or at least some that I would recommend based on hearsay.

Blank City - I loved this documentary. If you are interested in the history of independent film coupled with the history of 1970's New York City in the Lower East Side during the days of the punk revolution, this film is for you. Luckily for me, I was interested in those very things. See it this Saturday (Nov 6, 2010) or Sunday (Nov 7, 2010).

Come Undone - I'm not sure how I feel about this Italian film. How's that for a review? It's the tale of two people who, despite being in seemingly happy marriages, are overwhelmed with lust for one another and engage in an affair which threatens both of their contented homes. You're a grown up, make your own decision on whether to see this film. It screens today (Nov 5) and tomorrow (Nov 6) (both in 2010).

Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone - An excellent documentary which tells the tale of the punk, ska, rock band Fishbone, from inception, to the cusp of fame, to disintegration, and back to the path of rock and roll redemption. An interesting study in the dynamics of this unique band and the personalities that defined it. Definitely worth a viewing. Screens next Thursday (Nov 11) and next Saturday (Nov 13).

happythankyoumoreplease - I haven't seen this movie, but I want to. One screening already sold out. Don't miss your chance to catch another. Screens today (Nov 5), Sunday (Nov 7 - sold out), and Monday (Nov 8). Here are some portroid connections to this film:

Malin Akerman at the 2010 Maui Film Festival

Zoe Kazan, after a play in NYC

Richard Jenkins, at the Starz Denver Film Festival 2008

Pablo Schreiber, after a play in NYC

I Love You Phillip Morris - Again, I haven't seen this, but it looks good to me. If you think it looks good, why don't you see it? Starring Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor. It screens Sat (Nov 6) and Sun (Nov 7).

Marwencol - I saw this documentary and was fascinated by it. After being beaten brutally, a man, to aid in his own recovery, creates a world with 12" action figures and Barbie dolls in his backyard and lives a second life through it. The photographs that retell these stories are stunning. See this film next Saturday (Nov 13) and Sunday (Nov 14).

Monogamy - OK, fine, yet another movie I haven't yet seen. But ... at least with this one, I saw a panel discussion by the director and one of the stars during the Tribeca Film Festival, so with an educated guess I'll recommend it. It's probably good. Go see it, sight unseen and word untold. Sunday (Nov 7) and Tuesday (Nov 9). Here are some portroid connections:

Dana Adam Shapiro, director, at Tribeca Talks

Chris Messina, at Tribeca Talks

Zak Orth, after a comedy show at the Bluebird Theater in Denver

Nice Guy Johnny - Kerry Bishe will be receiving the Rising Star Award at this screening, so, you know, go check it out. Tomorrow (Nov 6).

The People vs. George Lucas - I'm wicked psyched to see this documentary. < that's good reporting, right? It screens next Sunday (Nov 14, 2010).

We Are The Sea - This is a film by director Neil Truglio. Neil previously ran the press group for the Starz Denver Film Festival and was the first person to ever give me a chance at doing any official coverage. For that I will always be thankful. I was very excited to see his film and thought it was great. It is beautifully shot and excellently acted. The story kept me invested throughout and I rooted for the characters, which is always a plus. The soundtrack by Iron & Wine underlies the film wonderfully. It is, at its heart, indie and speaks to and of a generation where losing your way is easier than any of us would like to believe, but so is finding it again. I recommend this film. The first screening on Friday (Nov 12) is sold out, but you can still get tickets for next Saturday (Nov 13).

Neil Truglio, writer/director "We Are The Sea"

There are two more red carpet events: 127 Hours (tonight!) and Black Swan (next Saturday (Nov 13)). There are plenty of other amazing events, including panels and films and animation stations and other amazing events (previously stated). I hope to see you there and all around the festival. If you see me, say hello. I may just give you an awkward smile and confused look, but that's just because you're kind of weird (just kidding, I am).

Movies!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

SDFF33 Red Carpet Preview

2010-11-01T21:18:00.000-06:00

OK, alright, everyone, the time has come to make some decisions on what movies you're going to see at the Starz Denver Film Festival. I've already made my preliminary choices, but don't let that sway you (unless you want to be like me (awesome)).

Of course, I plan to be at all the red carpet events, taking portroids and seeing some amazing films. Let's go into those now:

November 3, 2010: Rabbit Hole - based on the play about a couple whose life is turned upside down by the tragic death of their young son. The film stars Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart (in attendance) and directed by John Cameron Mitchell (also in attendance). Some additional cast with portroid connections:

Dianne Wiest

Giancarlo Esposito

November 4, 2010: Grand opening of the new facilities for Denver FilmCenter on Colfax, screenings of Casino Jack and Morning, both sold out (sorry). I was surprised to hear of the tragic death of Casino Jack director George Hickenlooper this week and my heart and thoughts go out to his family. Casino Jack is the story of Jack Abramoff and stars Kevin Spacey. The night is shared by the film Morning by director Leland Orser and stars Jeanne Tripplehorn and Elliot Gould (in attendance).

Portroid connections for these two films:

George Hickenlooper (Casino Jack)

Jason Ritter (Morning)

November 5, 2010: 127 Hours - Director Danny Boyle's (in attendance) film about the true life story of Aron Ralston (also in attendance), the outdoorsman who got trapped under a boulder and was forced to amputate his own arm to escape. The film stars James Franco.

Portroid connection:

Amber Tamblyn

November 13, 2010: Black Swan - Darren Aronofsky's film about a ballet company putting on a production of Swan Lake focusing on the duality of the black and white swan. Starring Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel and Mila Kunis.

I've had the chance to watch a number of films screening at the festival. Reviews forthcoming.

See you there!!

Rick

rick@portroids.com

New Portroidcast interview with Kyle Kinane

2010-10-21T19:45:00.001-06:00

Hi.

I did an interview with comedian Kyle Kinane last night. You should probably listen to it.

Kyle Kinane

- Rick
rick@portroids.com

33rd Starz Denver Film Festival!!!!

2010-10-18T11:18:00.000-06:00

Hello [everyone],

Just a quick note to remind you that the schedule for the Starz Denver Film Festival has been released today and you would be well-served to take time to review it now and pick out the films you think would be awesome to see, and then buy tickets for those on October 22 (or October 20 for members (join!)) when they go on sale. As always, it looks to be an awesome festival. I expect to see you there!

Just a few announced special guests: Aaron Eckhart, John Cameron Mitchell, Danny Boyle, Elliot Gould.

I'll be on the red carpet taking portroids and will work on doing some interviews with some of the filmmakers and stars, so keep your eyes and ears out for those things. The festival takes place from November 3-14, 2010 and I will cover as much of it as I possibly can.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be posting up some pre-reviews and suggestions. If I know you, you won't want to miss that, I know.

See you there!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Peremotka!

2010-10-04T10:45:00.000-06:00

Russian magazine "Peremotka" (Rewind) has a feature on Portroids in the most recent issue. If you read Russian, give it a read. Otherwise, if you just like to look at pictures, give it a look.

http://immediately.ru/issues/738 (starting on page 19)

or for download:

http://peremotka-mag.ru/wp-content/issue/Peremotka.Issue05.pdf

Do svidaniya!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Some Scenes Around TIFF

2010-09-14T21:16:00.000-06:00

I'm always curious about how film festivals are run and promoted in the cities where they take place, so today a friend who works in the area went around and took some photos of the Toronto International Film Festival. So, a special thank you to our remote photo correspondent, Michael Dreben, for this look into the environment of TIFF2010.

This Hyatt is the location of many of the press conferences happening for TIFF

Crowds gather outside Bell Lightbox

TIFF logoed transportation

Projected marketing

Snaking lines

Newstalk 1010 reporter Justine Lewkowicz

That's it for now, but come back later to see what else there is to be seen.

Until then,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

Comic-Con 2010: Sightings In and Around

2010-08-29T18:19:00.020-06:00

The coolest thing about Comic-Con, to me, is spotting and interacting with the special guests. The best part is that it can happen most anywhere, from booths (both scheduled and surprise), to outside, to on the floor, to in a hotel lobby, and even at off-site theaters.

Here is a listing, from the best of my recollection, of every such encounter I had in my four days at Comic-Con 2010 (in no order of particularity):

JJ Abrams: He was in the audience for the Piranha 3D unsanctioned and too-hot-for-Comic-Con panel held off-site. After the event, he was taking pictures with anyone who asked. Very nice guy. He signed his portroid over the picture and worried that he "f*cked it up". I assured him it was fine. Other than the unfortunately expired film, it was. See?

Tom Lennon: I love this guy. We were crossing the street at the same time toward the convention center. His wife had stopped to take a picture of a bulldog riding a motorcyle, so I took the opportunity to say hello. He is already in three portroids, so we agreed there was probably no need for another just then. I did act as photographer for a few people that asked him to pose with them, of which he graciously agreed. Class act!

Here are the three portroids featuring Tom Lennon:

Thomas Jane: I saw him twice. The first time was when I was waiting in the Machete Taco Truck line with Valorie, Vanessa, and Jorge and he walked by on the other side of the chain link fence and exclaimed loudly to his friend that he didn't know they actually made a Machete movie. They did. The next time was when I was walking by the Hard Rock Hotel and he was walking in. He blew a puff of cigar smoke in the faces of autograph hounds and stuck his hand in the way of a paparazzi lens. Class act!

Bruce Willis: Taller than I expected. I saw Bruce twice. Once heading into the MTV Live interview room at the Hard Rock Hotel and once leaving. He was just a few feet from me each time, but with the cluster of publicists and handlers with him, I did not bother to ask for a photo. You can't get rejected if you don't try (you also can't succeed).

Michael Cera: For how many times I saw him, it is surprising that I never interacted with him. He was at Comic-Con promoting Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (which I have seen, and loved, and recommend you see in theaters while you still have the chance). I saw Michael at the Scott Pilgrim panel, at the MTV Live recording and in the waiting area afterwards (where I'd taken a few portroids previously, but was informed by security that I wasn't allowed, so I stopped), walking in downtown San Diego with the rest of the cast from Scott Pilgrim (across the street from me for a few blocks before our paths diverged), and again the next day entering the theater for the sneak peak screening of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Alas, despite it all, no portroid for Mr. Cera.

Brian Posehn: He performed at the House of Blues with Patton Oswalt and the next day I saw him walking around on the exhibit floor and told him I enjoyed his performance. I already had a portroid from a few years prior at SF Sketchfest:

Stan Lee: The Man himself. I attended a Manga panel where he was expected, but due to illness he did not make it. I did end up seeing him later that day doing a signing on the exhibit floor, but didn't get the chance to meet him. Maybe next year.

Peter Serafinowicz: Along with Robert Popper, he was doing a signing at the BBC America booth for the DVD release of "Look Around You". They were also signing "Look Around You" lab coats which were being given away for free. Portroid with expired film:

Malcolm McDowell: As I walked the exhibit floor I came across a booth where Malcolm was doing a signing. He sat there in his sunglasses and for X amount of $ you could have him sign a headshot or whatever. Thinking back I probably should've paid his ransom and had a nice shot for my collection, but alas no. Perhaps next time.

Jane Wiedlin: At the Image booth promoting her new comic book, "Lady Robotika", Jane Wiedlin and Bill Morrison (co-creator) showed up a few minutes early for a specially-arranged portroid opportunity. Usually I don't like portroid subjects to use props in their photos, but Jane's use of the face-hugger Alien really turned out well:

Bill Morrison: At the Image booth with Jane Wiedlin with their new comic book, "Lady Robotika":

Corey Feldman: Corey was doing a signing at the WB booth for the third film in the "Lost Boys" series, but the line had already reached capacity by the time I arrived, so I just took a quick digital picture as I walked by. The next day as I was entering the convention center, he was walking in right by me. I only noticed him, in his sunglasses and hat, because I recognized his voice as he pointed out the floating bubble people soaring above the city. I told him I am a fan of his films and he said thanks and gave a two-finger handshake (while holding his cell phone). I didn't ask to take a portroid because he was there with his young son and father.

Chevy Chase: He was doing a signing for "Community" at the Sony booth. They weren't allowing photos or personalizations because they didn't want people to be holding up the line. I even asked one of the publicists I worked with in one of the press rooms (as she was standing by the signing table) and she also said it wasn't going to be possible. Something held up the person behind me, so Joel McHale approved my Polaroid and snuck a signature on it for me. Next in line was Chevy. I did not take his picture, as I already had at the Boulder International Film Festival (though I should have because my original one is kind of blurry). I talked to him for about 30 seconds about that and then moved on down the line. He pretended to remember me, but I know he was just being nice :)

Erik Estrada: On my way to meet a friend for lunch, I ran into Erik on the street. He was taking a photo with some people passing by. I stopped and took a photo, too. He was very cool about it. My friend asked me if I called him "Ponch". I did not, but I didn't need to:

Aubrey Plaza: She was at the Hard Rock Hotel with many of the cast of "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World" for the MTV Live interview. As I had been asked by security to not take any photos, I didn't. I also saw her all the other places I saw Michael Cera, so re-read that section to know where those places were (so you can meet her should you ever get a time-and-place machine (I have faith in you! Keep trying!)).

Scott Adsit: As I was walking through the Sails Pavilion, I happened upon Scott. He seemed surprised that I wanted his picture, but he granted one anyway. Hooray for me!

Mark Hamill: Walking down the hall, after signing a ton of impromptu autographs, and heading to the DC Universe Online media party, Mark enthusiastically agreed to a Polaroid. I'm happy to have caught some of the fans in the background behind him, too.

Simon Pegg: Surprise guest on the Scott Pilgrim panel where he and Nick Frost came out hyped-up on stage and almost instantly turned around and dejectedly left when it was announced they had nothing to do with the film. I also saw Simon walking down the street with his ball cap down low. I didn't stop him for that reason and because I already had a portroid from the "Spaced" Butt-Numb-A-Thon at the Alamo Drafthouse in Austin two years prior, and because he wasn't with Nick Frost, who I was really hoping to meet (spoiler alert: I never did).

Mr. Brainwash: He was doing a signing at a booth on the far side of the exhibit hall. There were two posters available, including the Star Wars reunion one. I arrived just as he was walking back into the enclosed booth and didn't get the chance to talk to him about getting a portroid. The guy working the booth said no photos. I wish I could've gotten a Polaroid. If you haven't seen Banksy's film "Exit Through the Gift Shop", you absolutely must. It's genius. I'd love to get portroids of Mr. Brainwash and Banksy (in his monkey mask) someday (if either of you read this, email me at rick@portroids.com and let's put something together).

Here are some Banksy street art pieces we came across last weekend in San Francisco (plus we saw one that had been painted over):

Alex Winter: On the exhibit floor I spotted Alex (of "Bill and Ted" and "Lost Boys" fame). He was holding an infant, so it didn't seem like a cool thing to ask for a photo, so I was totally cool and didn't.

Donald Glover: At the "Community" signing at the Sony booth. Luckily the person behind me in line was spending a lot of time talking to Chevy Chase so it gave me the freedom to walk down the line taking portroids of the entire cast. Awesome!

Zachary Quinto: Saw him quickly at the Hard Rock Hotel talking to Edgar Wright. He was on a bunch of panels, but I didn't get the chance to see any of them.

Nick Kroll: Saw him briefly as I walked by the WB booth during the "Children's Hospital" signing. Here's a portroid from SF Sketchfest:

Robert Popper: At the BBC America booth for the "Look Around You" signing with Peter Serafinowicz. Again, expired film:

James Adomian: At the Patton Oswalt show at the House of Blues, Patton called out a member of the audience for their pirate laugh and started interrogating them from the stage. That person turned out to be his friend, James Adomian.

Karl Urban: Remember all the stuff I wrote about seeing Bruce Willis? No? Scroll up and read it again. I'll wait ... Remember now? Yes, good. Karl was there with Bruce for all of that. They were there promoting the new film "Red".

Levar Burton: There was a booth which offered, for the low price of $50, signatures from a large number of the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Lined up in their own version of Hands Across America were a bunch of women forming a red rover blockade to stop people from taking unauthorized photos. Levar, despite this attempt to keep people moving, stood up on his chair and began spouting some sort of public address. Despite this public address, I kept moving.

Adam Scott: I had the chance to talk to Adam at the Piranha 3D event. We discussed our previous interview (included below), my continued Polaroids, our mutual disappointment in Starz cancelling "Party Down", and his new role on "Parks and Recreation". An exceptional actor and an exemplary person overall.

Jim Norton: As we waited in the Machete Taco Truck line, as the final group that was allowed in, comedian Jim Norton showed up and tried to join the line, but was turned away by the bouncer. Too bad. It would've been fun to hang out/near until we each received our miniature tacos.

Peter Mayhew: Another example of wishing I was willing to pay money for a photo and autograph. The man who played Chewbacca himself sat at a booth perfectly willing for me to pay him for his brief attention. Should've done. The cool thing is that Peter Mayhew, Mark Hamill, and Harrison Ford were all there the same day. They totally should've gotten together for the ultimate reunion hangout.

Mae Whitman: As one of the cast from "Scott Pilgrm vs. The World", Mae was to be found wherever the cast was to be found. And despite that, I still never got the chance to get a portroid of her. Drat!

Kyle Kinane: After performing with Patton Oswalt at the House of Blues, Kyle came outside and I was able to talk to him and take a portroid. The coolest part was that he was familiar with this site and my Polaroid portrait project. He told me about a show he was going to be doing in Denver, but it fell on a date I would be out of town. I hope to see him perform again sometime, as he was hilarious. You, too, should actively pursue attending one of his shows.

Tim Heidecker: For the past few years Tim and Eric have been putting on their own convention during Comic-Con. It is called Awesomecon and I made sure to get over to the park where it was held and check it out. Was it awesome? Sure. Here's a portroid of Tim from SF Sketchfest a few years ago:

Jerry O'Connell: Along with the aforementioned potential "Star Wars" reunion I aforementioned, another potential reunion could have included Jerry O'Connell, Wil Wheaton, and Corey Feldman for "Stand By Me". I even hoped to do my own reunion via portroids, as I was guaranteed to see Wil, for he was participating in lots of events I planned to attend, yet he is the one I never saw. Jerry, on the other hand, I did see and was able to take a portroid of (with expired film, no less) at the "Piranha 3D" event. I even left at the same time as him, but so he wouldn't think I was following him, I diverted my course and ended up getting lost in downtown San Diego in the middle of the night. Thanks, Jerry, for my thinking you might think I was following you. You made me get lost!

Mary Elizabeth Winstead: In cahoots with the rest of her cohorts from "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World", Mary Elizabeth managed to escape Comic-Con unportroided. Well played!

David Wain: As you all know, David was one of the very first people to have his portroid taken, almost seven years ago in Seattle. Since then I've seen him countless times (like five or so) and have not taken a follow-up portroid (for integrity's sake). All that said, I saw David at Comic-Con doing a signing for Children's Hospital at the WB booth. Here's his Seattle portroid circa 2003:

Joel McHale: At the Sony booth for the "Community" signing, Joel bucked the system and started the trend down the line of helping me get portroids, despite the specific instructions from the staff to not. As a result, I got some great photos and have made multiple mentions of Sony and NBC show "Community". Everyone wins!!!

LL Cool J: While I waited in line for the "Community" signing at the Sony booth (win), LLCJ showed up within eyeshot at the CBS booth. Would that I could I would've gone there, too.

Alexandre Aja: At the Piranha 3D event, director Alex Aja presented footage from his film. Afterwards, I got a portroid with some expired Polaroid film:

Seth Green: I only saw Seth briefly as he was walking in to the green room. What more is there to say? He was there to promote Robot Chicken.

Robert Rodriguez: At the Hard Rock Hotel, Robert was doing the MTV Live interview to promote his new film "Machete" with Danny Trejo. While he was waiting to go on, I just stood by and didn't ask for a photo. I thought I'd for sure see him at the Machete Taco Truck later. I didn't. Always take advantage of every opportunity.

Details on these sightings to be posted soon:

Eric Wareheim
Bill Hader
Anna Kendrick
Scott Aukerman
Ellen Wong
Ian Brill
Alison Brie
Edgar Wright
Dirk Benedict
Rob Corddry
DJ Lance Rock
Kelly Brook
Brent Spiner
Richard Hatch
Danny Trejo
Seth Rogen
Jason Schwartzman
Paul Scheer
Patton Oswalt
Yvette Nicole Brown
Kieran Culkin
Nathan Fillion
Gillian Jacobs
Denis O'Hare
Lake Bell
Elisabeth Shue
Brandon Routh
Adam Baldwin
Felicia Day
Jonathan Ross
Stephen Tobolowsky
Satya Bhabha
Tad Stones
Javier Grillo-Marxuach
Alison Pill
Brande Roderick
Kynt and Vyxsin
Eli Roth
Danny Pudi
Chris Hardwick
Morgan Spurlock

This list does not include people I saw on panels or in press rooms. Those reports are yet to come.

Goodbye!
Rick
rick@portroids.com

* u

Comic-Con 2010: FX's "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia"

2010-07-28T15:17:00.003-06:00

On the final day of Comic-Con (Sunday, July 25, 2010), the one thing I was most looking forward to was the It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia panel in Ballroom 20. And, my friends, it did not disappoint. Not only did we get a Q&A with the cast (including a surprise additional panelist from the audience (David Hornsby (Rickety Cricket))), but we also got to watch the entire first episode from the upcoming season (3 months before the rest of the world). It may've been the collective laughter of the crowd, but that may be my favorite episode yet. I cannot wait for you all to see it (in 3 months).

Because they aired the episode and because the panel was shared with the show Sons Of Anarchy, there was only a brief amount of time for audience questions (and although the cast stated they would stay longer, they (and we all) were given the bum's rush by the organizers after ten minutes or so of panel time). Despite this short window, the event was extremely entertaining.

Now, as press, I was privvy to a pre-panel press conference, which may've been the highlight of my entire Comic-Con experience (fulfilling though it was). The cast (Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Danny DeVito, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Kaitlin Olson, and Rob McElhenney) were set up at the front of the press room at a dais and fielded questions from the media. I only wish I had recorded it so you all could witness it closer to first-hand. As it is, here is a second-hand recount: it was hilarious.

Highlights:
- The upcoming season will focus on Deandra's pregancy, with a unique conclusion in the finale
- The show is fully scripted, with very little ad-libbing, and Charlie, Glenn, and Rob work year-round on the show
- Only Danny did not backpedal on bad-mouthing Nicholas Cage during the press event (though his laughter betrayed his jest)
- The Waitress's name will not be revealed in the run of the show, BUT in early home videos her name was given (try to find it! (this is how the Nicholas Cage discussion was spurred))
- Green Man will not appear in the new season, and they were surprised at his popularity (also, for people wearing Green Man costumes: wear a cup)

Here are the portroids I took after the press conference (plus one from a previous event):

Mary Elizabeth Ellis (The Waitress)

Charlie Day (Charlie)

Glenn Howerton (Dennis)

Rob McElhenney (Mac)

Danny DeVito (Frank)

Kaitlin Olson (Deandra) (from Vail Film Festival 2009)

More Comic-Con updates coming soon!

Love,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

The Comic-Con Report (sort of)

2010-07-25T20:52:00.000-06:00

DISCLAIMER/APOLOGY: As a result of the Wi-Fi not working in my hotel, this Comic-Con article is coming to you late. My sincerest apologies and I hope to make it up to you with a free awkward backrub should ever we meet (I hope we never meet).

COMIC-CON!!!!
... A Gradual Lowering Percentage* of Actual Comics

This, as you well know, was my first time attending San Diego Comic-Con International (or Comic-Con for short, or SDCC for shorter). Going into it, I spent three weeks mapping panels and events and press rooms and off-site parties and booth signings and laid them out on a firm schedule to maximize my time and provide myself with the greatest opportunity for the best possible portroids and relayable experience. Upon arrival, I disregarded my entire plan. All that effort laying the groundwork was invaluable (that means "very valuable") for what ultimately became a much more rounded and free-flowing course of action and interaction (that does not mean "very teraction").

Over the course of the four day convention (Thursday-Sunday, July 22-25, 2010), I took 66 new portroids. That's an average of some number* per day!! I know you're very eager to see these Polaroid portraits and I don't blame you, but I'm writing this from an airport and don't have a means for scanning them here (sorry I'm not some sort of superhero with the lackluster power of remote image scanning (maybe some day, but that day is not this day)).

Alongside those 66 portroids, I saw countless* celebrities, either previously or never-before portroided, who, for one reason or another, I did not get/take the chance to engage in the portroidial arts (now I am just making words up). It seems you'd like some examples of "one reason or another". Fine. One reason: venue/circumstances unconducive (that means "not conducive"). Another: babies. With each situation, I had to measure the restrictions, both personal and proximal, and take each dismal failure with resigned understanding (that, surprisingly, does mean "not derstanding").

Since you seem to love to hear about my portroid failures, here are a few for your sick (though not derstandable) schadenfreude: Nick Frost, Michael Cera, Alex Winter, Will Ferrell, Stan Lee, Nathan Fillion, Brandon Routh, Peter Mayhew, etc. (the list goes on and on*)

Now, unless you've been closely following my Twitter feed, you probably don't know about my amazing successes. I like to focus on those instead. I was so very pleased with all of my interactions and the portroids I was able to take. Here are some examples of those: Danny DeVito, Lloyd Kaufman, Seth Rogen, Peter Serafinowizc, Maggie Q, Erik Estrada, Stephen Tobolowsky, Jason Schwartzman, etc. (the list goes on and on for whatevs** 66 minus 8 is*)

Over the next few days, I will be posting up all of my new portroids, complete with stories about the events (yes, even including*** NBC's new series "The Event") surrounding them. So, please return to this site to read about it and see the photos. I think you'll be pleased (if I know you at all, that is, which, as we already established, I do not (still ... come back to see them)). I discovered that no one possibly could have the exact same Comic-Con (SDCC) experience, so if you're willing to hear (read "read") it, I will be telling mine.

Until then, farewell,
Rick
rick@portroids.com

* math is hard.
** short for "whatever"
*** very cluding

Comic-Con Pre-Planning 2010

2010-07-11T12:43:00.000-06:00

As previously hinted, I will be attending San Diego Comic-Con International 2010 from July 22-25 as press for this very site (portroids.com). The preliminary schedule has just been announced, though there are some holes I still expect to be filled (I'm not going to tell you if that's what she said (but she did)).

I'm still working on press access for various panels and events, so I'm not yet ready to announce all my expectations and hopes for coverage (though please feel free to comment and tell me what you'd like me to attempt).

What I will do is show you a selection of some previously-portroided special guests already on the roster (or participating in events on the fringe) to whet your appetite, so ... here they are (in some sort of random order):

R2-D2 (rumored)

That's it for now. Once I know more of my schedule I'll start listing it here to give you an idea of which things I will be covering. The convention is so massive and there is so much overlap that I will really need to set my priorities and have a few back-ups if those fall through. I won't even tell you yet which things I'm excited about (Scott Pilgrim, The Event, Paul, Harry Potter, The Other Guys, Human Target, Hawaii Five-O, all the booths, The Expendables, DC Universe Online, Look Around You, Stan Lee, Chuck, Community, Furry sex parties (just seeing if you're paying attention), Venture Bros, V, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Walking Dead, Super, JJ Abrams and Joss Whedon, Megamind, TRON: Legacy, Salt, RED, slave Leia costumes, Dexter, Childrens Hospital, asthmatics, etc).

See you there!
Rick
portroids@hotmail.com