Mega Con 2006

The comic reviewers will be at this years mega con wandering around passing out cards. We will be back on Monday with a full report following on Tuesday

Seeing Double: Spidey and Black Cat Take on Two Lizards in Sensational Spider-Man #24

What can be worse than being stalked by the Lizard? The answer is two Lizards looking to tear you limb from limb.

Sensational Spider-Man #24 continues the “Feral” storyline where Spider-Man finds his more animalistic foes becoming more bestial. Some help shows up in the form of his ex-girlfriend the Black Cat, but when Felicia begins to succumb to the same effects, Spider-Man finds himself in deep trouble.

Mike Rutschky of SilverBulletComics.com says part 1 of “Feral” in Sensational Spider-Man #23 is “entertaining…I’ll definitely be there for the next issue.”

Adam Messano of WellReadPress.com calls it “an intriguing story by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa.”

Formerly a Marvel Knights title, Sensational Spider-Man has made an impressive debut with both fans and retailers. Sensational Spider-Man #23 has sold out at Diamond thanks to the sensational new title and the new creative team of Aguirre-Sacasa and Medina.

And if you’re in New York City this weekend, be sure to meet the writer behind Sensational Spider-Man, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, at the New York Comic Con. Aguirre-Sacasa will be making a signing appearance at the Marvel booth this Sunday, February 25th, from 11-1pm.

Be sure to get your hands on part 2 of “Feral” in Sensational Spider-Man #24 while you can because if these preview pages are any indication, it’s going to go fast.


MARVEL KNIGHTS SPIDER-MAN #24
Written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Pencils & Cover by Angel Medina
32 PGS./T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$2.99
On Sale - 3/8/2006

DESPERADO PUBLISHING HEADS TO THE BIG CITY

If you’re a fan of Desperado Publishing’s diverse line-up of titles and you’ll be at this weekend’s New York Comic-Con, be sure to stop by booth 269 to visit with publisher, Joe Pruett, and creators Frank Beddor, Keith Giffen, Shannon Denton, John Lucas and Don McGregor. All will be on hand to answer questions, preview upcoming projects and sign autographs.

“We’re really looking forward to visiting with fans in New York,” said Pruett. “It’s been way too long since there was a show this large in New York and we expect to meet and speak with a lot of people. If you’re going to be there, we’d love to meet you and show you what we do. Come on by and see what Desperado has to offer.”

The New York Comic-Con is being held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City this coming weekend, February 24-26.

Road to Civil War off to Amazing Start with Amazing Spider-Man #529

Despite a huge overprint, Amazing Spider-Man #529 sold out Tuesday afternoon from Diamond. Fans should note that retailers should be fully stocked on the first print, but Marvel is rushing the same Bryan Hitch cover, noted as a second printing, back to press.

This issue not only starts the road to Civil War, but also is the first appearance of Spider-Man’s new “Iron Spider” costume.

“If this is any indication of sales for the Civil War event, we are off to a tremendous start,” says Marvel’s Vice President of Sales David Gabriel. “Retailers should check their orders on New Avengers: Illuminati Special and Fantastic Four #536, the next chapters on the road to Civil War.

“Thanks to retailers and fans for making Amazing Spider-Man #529 an instant success.”


AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #529 SECOND PRINTING
Diamond Code Should Be Available and Open Thursday Morning
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Pencils & Cover by RON GARNEY
32 PGS./T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$2.50
FOC - 2/28, On Sale - 3/15/2006

NEW AVENGERS ILLUMINATI (JAN062042)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by ALEX MALEEV
Cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
48 PGS./Rated A ...$3.99
FOC - 3/9, On Sale - 3/29/2006

FANTASTIC FOUR #536 (JAN062022)
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Pencils & Cover by MIKE MCKONE
A mysterious object has fallen from the heavens to crash in the Midwest, and Reed Richards has been called in to try to piece together the mystery surrounding it. What is it--and how will it lead into CIVIL WAR and the return of a Marvel mainstay?
32 PGS./Rated A ...$2.99
FOC - 3/9, On Sale - 3/29/2006

Come to Mega Night at Universal Studios!

The doors to MegaCon don’t officially open until Friday morning, but the fun begins Thursday night with the 1st Annual Mega Night at Universal’s Islands of Adventure®. Thursday, February 23, 2006 from 6pm -11pm, feel the rush of adrenaline as you experience cutting-edge rides and attractions at Universal’s Islands of Adventure® theme park. Challenge your senses as you journey through five uniquely themed islands.

Mega Night attendees will enjoy exclusive access to Marvel Super Hero Island® from 9pm – 11pm. Your favorite characters will come to life as you battle villains high above the city streets on the eye-popping 3-D ride The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man® and defy gravity on the Incredible Hulk Coaster®.

And you can have all this fun with some very special celebrity guests.

Arne Starr from Star Trek, Spider-Man and The Lord of the Rings
Mira Furlan from the multiple Emmy Award-winning TV show Lost and Babylon 5
Tracy Scoggins from Babylon 5 and Lois & Clark The New Adventures of Superman
Jason Carter from Babylon 5
Jimmy Palmiotti – Artist/Writer
Amanda Conner – Artist/Writer

Plus, get a FREE collectible comic book in Marvel Super Hero Island®.
Quantities are limited and only available while supplies last, so don’t miss the 1st Annual Mega Night at Universal’s Islands of Adventure®. Buy your tickets online now at Ticketmaster and save.

Publisher and Exhibitor List!
The MegaCon publisher and exhibitor lists are quite extensive this year. So you can easily find everyone you’re looking for, here is the complete list with booth numbers. Be sure to take it with you so you can scout out all your favorites.

PUBLISHERS

3 BOYS PRODUCTIONS/STUDENTS OF THE UNUSUAL…...519
ACTOR…………………………………………………………….319
ANIME NATION………………………………………………….618
BARBARIAN BATTLES………………………………………….525
BRIAN PULIDO/LADY DEATH…………………………………614
COLISEUM OF COMICS…………………………………………313
CRUSADE ENTERTAINMENT………………………………….612
DIAMOND COMIC DISTRIBUTORS……………………………722
FUNIMATION PRODUCTIONS………………………………….419
HASH, INC………………………………………………………...625
INKWORKS……………………………………………………….413
LO FI MAGAZINE………………………………………………..726
MARVEL………………………………………………………….513
NEWAVE COMICS……………………………………………….627
PLAYMATES, INC……………………………………………….712
RINGLING SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN…………………..225
SUPERVERSE ZOOM SUIT………………………………………613
THE DAVE SCHOOL……………………………………………..425
TOP COW PRODUCTIONS………………………………………324
TOP SHELF PRODUCTIONS…………………………………….619

INDEPENDENT PRESS – RED SECTION

803 STUDIOS………………………………………………………12
ABYSSMAL ENTERTAINMENT/Hocus Pocus Prod…………….2
ANDY LEE………………………………………………………...11
ARSENIC LULLABY PUBLICATIONS………………………….6
C & F GRAPHICS/ T & G BOOKS………………………………..1
EIDOLON ENTERTAINMENT……………………………………5
FUDGE MUSKET, INC…………………………………………….7
GALAXY KID PRODUCTIONS…………………………………...3
GREG HOPKINS & SHAUN WARD……………………………...13
POSSUM PIRATE PRESS………………………………………….4
LUNAR MOTH ENTERTAINMENT………………………………8
NIGHTGIG.COM…………………………………………………..14
WET INK STUDIOS……………………………………………….9,10

INDEPENDENT PRESS –BLUE SECTION

01COMICS.COM………………………………………………..11
ACROSS THE POND STUDIOS………………………………..6
COSPLAY KINGDOM …………………………………………10
HEADS & TAILS………………………………………………..14
iNterLude Films/Arnali Films……………………………………3
J. BAKER PUBLICATION ……………………………………..4
JESTER PRESS…………………………………………………..9
JOSH MIDDLETON……………………………………………..2
KLEEMAN AND MIKE …………………………………………7
MOVEMENT MAGAZINE………………………………………13
PALADIN 7 GRAPHICS…………………………………………8
ROGUE MOON ENTERTAINMENT……………………………5
SKOTTIE YOUNG………………………………………………..1
US FEDERATION OF BATTO DO……………………………...12

INDEPENDENT PRESS –GREEN SECTION

A & S ANIMATION, INC ………………………………………….5
CHRIS LIE & DOVE McHARGUE………………………………..12
COMICBOOKCONVENTIONS.COM/KNIGHTSHIFT ENT…….7
CRYSTAL IRVINE & BRYAN TILLMAN……………………….11
CYBERLIGHT COMICS…………………………………………...2
M PRESS/DARK HORSE…………………………………………..4
PABLO MARCOS………………………………………………….13
PARTICLE 9 PRODUCTIONS…………………………………….10
PROTO-HYPE STUDIOS, INC…………………………………….8
PSYCHOTIC IMAGES……………………………………………..9
REVENANT STUDIOS…………………………………………….3
SEEKER ENTERTAINMENT……………………………………...6
T.R. & CO. STUDIOS………………………………………………1
TRACY CORNETT…………………………………………………14

EXHIBITORS

501st Legion………………………………..633
Adrian Cordrey……………………………..433
Alan E. Czarnecki………………………….432
Ancient City Arms………………………….125
Anime Cabana……………………………..912
Anime & Comics…………………………...709,808
Anime Palace………………………………200,202
Anime Pavilion……………………………..601,603,702
Anime Remix………………………………127
Anime USA…………………………………839,841,843
Apocalypse Comics……………………….335,434
Armada Games……………………………339
Avalon Manga Shop………………………208
Bad Apple Comics………………………...231,233,235
Basement Comics…………………………609,708
Bast's Garden………………………………305
Bead-azzled………………………………..731,830
Bedrock City Comics………………………802,804
Big Katts…………………………………….809
BigRedGuy Comics……………………….641,639,635,740,738,734
Big World……………………………………212,214
Bloody Mary…………………………………531,630
Boshi-Basiik…………………………………607
Brute Force Leather………………………...303
Calcom……………………………………….713
Capsule Corp………………………………..533
Captain Comics……………………………..739,838,840
Captain Lou’s………………………………..439,538
Cards, Comics, Collectibles………………..400,402
Cartoon Passion…………………………….105,107,109,801,803,532,534
Cartoonist Across America…………………806
CCC Promotions…………………………….743
Certificate of Authenticity…………………...131
Chessix Manufacturing……………………..643,742
CJs Comics………………………………….535,634
Cloak & Dagger……………………………..207,209
Collectibles Insurance………………………831
Collector's Comics…………………………..308
Collector's Corner……………………………501,503,505,507,509
Comic Central………………………………..234,232,230
Comic City……………………………………942
Comics Guaranty, LLC………………………405,407
Crazy Ed's Comics…………………………..725,824
Creation Entertainment………………………833
Crystal Clear Images………………………...715,814
Cunningham's Comics……………………….640,642
Dale Roberts Comics…………………………224,226
Dave's Collectibles……………………………631,730,732
Dave's Comics………………………………...431,530
Dazza…………………………………………..438
Digital Discs……………………………………902,904,906
Draven City Limits Tattoos……………………919
Dream on Silly Dreamer ………………………340
Famous Faces & Funnies……………………..921,923
Fandom………………………………………….331,333
FasFerox & Broken Saints.com……………………139
Friends of LuLu………………………………………733
Full Moon Features…………………………………..817
Fuzzy Pal/Fairy Life………………………………….608
Gamers Warehouse…………………………………241
GoldCoast Collectibles………………………………408
Graham Crackers Comics…………………………..119,121,220,218
Greentea Designs, Inc……………………………….705,707
Greg White Comic Books……………………………909
Half Full Studios………………………………………101,103
Heroes and Dragons.com……………………………703,701
Hollywood Book/Poster Co.………………………….700
Honeck Sculpture……………………………………..812
House of Anime/JPOP House……………………….901,903,905
Icon Distribution, LLC…………………………………243,342
Imagine that Galleries…………………………………638
Imperial Quartermaster……………………………….735
Islander…………………………………………………502
J&J Enterprises………………………………………..825,924
John Andriko……………………………………………242
jpntoys.com……………………………………………..911
K & J Non-Sports Cards……………………………….205
Killer Toys……………………………………………….917
La Wren's Nest………………………………………....813
Magic of Collecting……………………………………204,206,307
Media Blasters…………………………………………821,920,918
Mighty Nib Original Art………………………………..541
Mike Miles………………………………………………932
Monk Studios…………………………………………..240
Motor City Comics……………………………………..602,604,606
Movie Stop………………………………………………819
Neat Stuff Collectibles.com……………………………301
OffWorld Designs………………………………………201,300
Other Dimensions Cards & Comics….………………543
Personal Collector……………………………………..704,706
PK Collectibles…………………………………………835,934
Popular Comics………………………………………..815,914
Premeier Collectibles………………………………….900
Prism Comics…………………………………………...930
Quality Comix…………………………………………..309
Read More Comics…………………………………….302,304,306
Reel Imports……………………………………………908
Sasuga Japanese Bookstore…………………………341,343,440,442
Sci-Fi Overdrive………………………………………..741
Sci-Fi Zone……………………………………………..133,135
Sigh Co Graphics………………………………………539
Skirmisher……………………………………………….624
SP Entertainment……………………………………….916
StylinOnline.com………………………………………..719,721,818,820,239,338
Super Sword Center……………………………………113,115
TBS Comics……………………………………………..443,542
TeddyScares dba Applehead………………………….435
Tempered Treasures Swords of Toledo Spain………940
Terribly Odd……………………………………………...800
The Contact Lens Store………………………………..441
The Gift…………………………………………………..409
The Graveyard Shift Radio Show……………………..907
The Live Adventures Company………………………..842
The Silver Unicorn………………………………………925
The Wizard’s Wagon…………………………………..733,735
Tim Gordon……………………………………………..504
Tim Lohn………………………………………………..404,406
Troma Entertainment………………………………….826
Twilight Creations………………………………………727
Uberbot………………………………………………….605
Unique Visions…………………………………………401,403
Unknown Comics………………………………………827,926
Walden Books………………………………………….141,143
War Dogs Game Center……………………………….203
Washington Mutual……………………………………..807
Wizards………………………………………………….238
Yes Anime, Inc…………………………………………330,332,334
Yes Japan………………………………………………834,832
Yestertoys, Inc………………………………………….400
Yikes! Toys & Comics………………………………….540
Yum Yum Anime……………………………………….430

Programming!
This year’s convention has an impressive array of programming with something that is sure to appeal to everyone. So you can plan accordingly, here is the complete list of what you’ll find and where.

Friday, February 24th, 2006

Anime Viewing Room
All day showings of the newest films from Japan.
12:00pm - 10:00pm, Room 222B

Joss Whedon Room
Welcome to the programming track.
12:00pm - 1:00pm, Room 221E

Joss Whedon Room
Intro to the Whedonverse.
1:00pm - 2:00pm, Room 221E

Emerald Rose
Emerald Rose brings their style of rollicking Celtic folk rock to energize your MegaCon experience! Their original music is featured in Ringers: Lord of the Fans and Done the Impossible: The Fan's Tale of Serenity and Firefly, and the band were featured performers at the Lord of the Rings Oscar parties.
2:00pm – 3:00pm, Room 221 D

Joss Whedon Room
Firefly Episode Screening.
2:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221E

General Costuming Tips and Tricks:
Discover tips and tricks used by media professionals to create realistic looking costumes using common materials.
2:00pm – 3:00pm, Room 221 B & C

Arne Starr Presents
Come out and see all the latest trailers and all the latest gossip of what's coming out of Tinseltown in the near future and beyond. Arne Starr, in association with Jeff Walker, brings you all the latest and greatest, on films like Superman and X3 and much more, and hopefully a few surprises in there as well for those of you who are already up to date courtesy of the "'net."
2:00pm – 2:50pm, Room 222A

Mark Simon
Storyboards - A dynamic presentation on the value of storyboards:
* How they should be used in production
* How to read and draw storyboards
* Tricks of the trade
* Working with directors
* How they decrease budgets
* and more.
Presentation is based on Mark Simon's top-selling text, Storyboards: Motion in Art, 1st & 2nd Editions.
3:00pm – 4:00pm, Room 222A

Joss Whedon Room
The Men of Sunnydale.
3:00pm - 4:00pm, Room 221E

Troma presents a screening of Terror Firmer.
4:10pm – 5:10pm, Room 222A

Naboo Victory Celebration// Star Wars @ MegaCon 2006
Jedi, Sith, Bounty Hunters and even those on the Outer Rim shouldn't miss this event! The MegaCon costume contest theme this year is Star Wars, however we'll welcome any and all costumed folks to participate... yes, even the Gungans.
4:00pm – 9:00pm, Room 221D

Joss Whedon Room
Firefly Game Show.
4:00pm - 5:00pm, Room 221E

Fresh Fish Lounge
Relax and escape to the tunes of some Downtempo Grooves with soft mood lighting. Brought to you by Anime Sushi. For ages 21 and up. Bar opens at 7pm.
6:00pm – 11:00pm, Room 223

Steve Bacic Fan Club
Up close and personal with Steve Bacic.
7:00pm - 8:00pm, Room 221A

MegaCon “Indy Film Expo”
Two hours showcasing cutting-edge short independent films in the genres of action, animation, comedy, superheroes, science fiction, suspense, and horror. This selection of fabulous films is hosted by 3 Boys Productions/Students of the Unusual who also run the annual Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival. Donations will be accepted for ACTOR.
7:00pm – 10:00pm, Room 222A

Saturday, February 25th, 2006

Anime Viewing Room
Half-day showings of the newest films from Japan.
10:00am - 3:00pm , Room 222B

Meet Legendary Sal Buscema
Talk with Sal Buscema about his 40 years in comics.
11:00am - 11:50am, Room 221D

Meet “Toxic Avenger” Lloyd Kaufman
Q & A with legendary Director/Producer Lloyd Kaufman of Troma Entertainment.
11:00am – 11:50am, Room 221B & C

Path of the Samurai Demo
Join the Toyama Ryu School of Japanese swordsmanship as they demonstrate their skills with Katana. Real swords, real targets, and real action make this a must see event.
11:00am - 12:00pm, Room 221A

Top Cow Presents
Come meet the Top Cow gang and listen to Jim McLauchlin, Top Cow's Editor-In-Chief, discuss what's new in 2006.
11:00am - 11:50am, 222A

Independent Filmmaking Panel-- "Q&A with the filmmakers"
This is a unique opportunity to meet and discuss independent filmmaking with the filmmakers themselves. Directors, producers, distributors, festival coordinators, actors, and other special guests will be present to discuss their films which have shown at the Megacon "Indy Film Expo" and around the world. Panel hosted by Terry Cronin of 3 Boys Productions/Students of the Unusual who also runs the annual Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival.
12:00pm - 12:50pm, Room 221D

Joss Whedon Room
Redemption in the Whedonverse.
12:00pm - 1:00pm, Room 221E

AN Entertainment Industry Panel
Tampa, Florida based anime translation and distribution company AN Entertainment will screen its upcoming release of Haré+Guu, and take questions about the company, America's anime industry, and the AnimeNation retail business.
12:00pm - 12:50pm, 222A

Writing it Down
Where do good ideas come from? What do writers do when faced with a blank page and a looming deadline? How do you get something from nothing?
Featuring Chuck Dixon, Barbara Kesel, Jimmy Palmiotti.
12:00pm - 12:50pm Room 221B &C

Q & A with Al Feldstein
Meet the man who wore all the hats at EC Comics: legendary Al Feldstein.
1:00pm - 1:50pm, 222A

Prop/Costume 501st
Presented by members of the 501st Legion and Rebel Legion costuming groups, this informative panel will offer aspiring prop and costume makers an overview of the materials and tools needed to create realistic looking movie memorabilia. Learn how to build a hardware store blaster, make a droid from storage bins, and create costumes from existing clothing. Drop in for an informative presentation that will introduce you to this fun and exciting hobby. Professional costumer and prop maker Mark Bradley will be joining us to share his expertise in resin and latex as well as some interesting stories from his work with Disney and Lucasfilm.
1:00pm - 1:50pm, 221B & C

Bob Andelman: A Spirited Life
Bob Andelman, author of the new M Press/Dark Horse biography, "Will Eisner: A Spirited Life," will present a lively talk and slide show about the life of one of the greatest creators in comics and graphic novels. The program includes anecdotes, short readings from the book and rare and unusual photos and art from Eisner's life and career.
1:00pm - 1:50pm, Room 221D

Joss Whedon Room
Creative showcase.
1:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221E

Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu Seminar
Experience a hands-on class in authentic Japanese Swordsmanship taught by Taikai Champion and gold medalist Mike Femal. The dojo comes to MegaCon - it's your chance to experience it.
1:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221A

Joss Whedon Room
Buffy episode screening.
2:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221E

Meet the Men of X-Men
Meet the many creators of the ever-popular X-Men books. Featuring Mark Brooks, Brandon Peterson, Tim Townsend, Bob McLeod, Randy Green, and Ethan Van Sciver.
2:00pm - 2:50pm, Room 221D

Producing Animated Shorts
Illustrates the benefits of producing animated shorts such as portfolio pieces, festival screenings, publicity, pitches for shows, etc. The talk delves into important issues to keep in mind and short cuts to get things done. Mark Simon uses his successful series of shorts, Timmy's Lessons in Nature, as supporting evidence in the discussion. Hear great war stories about the Timmy shorts as they were pitched and sold around the world on the way to winning Grand Prize in Nickelodeon's first-ever Nicktoons Film Festival. Lecture is based on Simon's top-selling text, Producing Independent 2D Character Animation. Topic is relevant to all forms of animation.
2:00pm - 2:50pm Room 222A

From Books to Screenplays - What Happened to the Story?
The movie version of a book is often quite different. What are the ground rules for screenwriting from a book and why do they exist?
3:00pm - 3:50pm, Room 221D

Emerald Rose
Emerald Rose brings their style of rollicking Celtic folk rock to energize your MegaCon experience! Their original music is featured in Ringers: Lord of the Fans and Done the Impossible: The Fan's Tale of Serenity and Firefly, and the band were featured performers at the Lord of the Rings Oscar parties.
3:00pm - 4:00pm Room 221B & C

The Lowe Down. Marvel in '06. Whose Side Are You On?
Nick Lowe will talk about new and exciting events taking place at Marvel in 2006.
3:00pm - 3:50pm, Room 222A

Joss Whedon Room
Q&A with Buffy stars Clare Kramer and Mark Lutz.
3:00pm - 4:00pm, Room 221E

Anime Voice Actors & More
Q & A session with Lance Heiskell from Funimation Productions, Derrick Fish from Dandy & Company Comics and voice actors Chris Bevins, Mike McFarland, and Scott McNeill.
3:00pm - 5:00pm, Room 224A

Howard Chaykin
Talk with legendary creator Howard Chaykin.
4:00pm - 4:50pm, Room 221D

Joss Whedon Room
Buffy/Angel Game show.
4:00pm - 5:00pm, Room 221E

Arne Starr Presents
Come out and see all the latest trailers and all the latest gossip of what's coming out of Tinseltown in the near future and beyond. Arne Starr, in association with Jeff Walker, brings you all the latest and greatest, on films like Superman and X3 and much more, and hopefully a few surprises in there as well for those of you who are already up to date courtesy of the "'net."
4:00pm - 5:30pm, Room 222A

Q & A with Steve Bacic, Alexis Cruz, Tony Amendola & Cirroc Lofton
Come talk with some of the industries greatest sci-fi stars from Stargate SG, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and too many others to mention.
5:00pm- 5:50pm, Room 221D

Joss Whedon Room
Horror in the Whedonverse.
5:00pm - 6:00pm, Room 221E

Anime Sushi Costume Contest
Be part of the largest anime costume contest in the Southeast.
5:00pm – 7:30pm, Room 224B, C, E, F, G, H

ACTOR Art Auction
Don’t miss the fabulous art at this year’s auction.
6:00pm – 9:00pm, Room 221B & C

Joss Whedon Room
Angel Episode Screening.
6:00pm - 7:00pm, Room 221E

Joss Whedon Room
“Once More With Feeling” musical screening.
7:00pm - 8:00pm, Room 221E

Cyberia Dance
Cyberia: Anime influenced dance event featuring a great selection of some of the best dance music available.
7:30pm – 10:30pm, Room 224B, C, E, F, G, H

Sunday, February 26th, 2006

Anime Viewing Room
Showings of the newest films from Japan.
10:00am - 12:00pm & 3:00pm - 6:00pm, Room 224A

Anime Voice Actors Panel
Q & A session with Lance Heiskell from Funimation Productions, and voice actors Chris Bevins, Mike McFarland, and Scott McNeill.
10:15am - 1:00pm, Room 222B

65 Years of Captain America
Enjoy listening to Sal Buscema, Steve Epting, Mike Perkins and John Beatty as they discuss their years working on Captain America.
10:40am - 11:30am, Room 221E

Path of the Samurai Demo
Join the Toyama Ryu School of Japanese swordsmanship as they demonstrate their skills with Katana. Real swords, real targets, and real action make this a must see event.
11:00am - 12:00pm, Room 221A

Self Publishing for Dummies
Learn the ins and outs of self publishing from concept to distribution and all of the pitfalls in-between. Hear from a group of people who've fumbled their way through contracting, scripting, assembling an art team, finding investors, and dealing with printers and distributors.
11:00am - 11:5am, Room 221D

Arne Starr Presents
Come out and see all the latest trailers and all the latest gossip of what's coming out of Tinseltown in the near future and beyond. Arne Starr, in association with Jeff Walker, brings you all the latest and greatest, on films like Superman and X3 and much more, and hopefully a few surprises in there as well for those of you who are already up to date courtesy of the "'net."
11:00am - 12:00pm, Room 222A

Introducing Charles Band
Charles Band, Producer/Director of over 250 films, talks about: horror films, hot chicks and creating independent features.
11:40am - 12:30pm, Room 221E

Meet the Stars of Babylon 5
Q & A with Tracey Scoggins, Mira Furlan and Jason Carter.
12:00pm - 12:50pm, Room 221D

Visual Effects with Lee Stringer
Emmy-Winning Visual Effects Supervisor Lee Stringer will review and discuss his amazing work on Serenity, Battlestar Galactica, Roughnecks: The Starship Trooper Chronicles and Star Trek: Voyager. This panel includes rare gag reels and behind the scenes footage and is provided courtesy of The DAVE School.
12:10pm - 1:00pm, Room 222A

AMV Anime Music Video Contest
12:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 224A

Joss Whedon Costume Contest
1:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221E

AnimeNation Presents
Come meet members of the AnimeNation and AN Entertainment staff, and AnimeNation Forum members. Bring your questions about AnimeNation, America's anime fan community and industry, and anime in Japan, or just meet fellow anime fans.
1:00pm - 1:50pm Room 221D

Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu Seminar
Experience a hands-on class in authentic Japanese Swordsmanship taught by Taikai Champion and gold medalist Mike Femal. The dojo comes to MegaCon - it's your chance to experience it.
1:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 221A

D’espairs Ray Global Infection Tour 2006
D’espairsRay, one of the biggest and most impressive visual acts in Japan, is preparing for a third tour of America with a stop at Megacon in Orlando, FL. D’espairsRay’s music is dark and very heavy, but enchantingly melodic. The energy each member exudes during live performances is unbearably contagious, and the madness doesn’t stop until fans and members together crescendo to a climax. Anything but quick and sloppy, D’espairsRay takes you on a dark journey, pulling you deeper into their world gently, then promptly letting all hell break loose in the most agreeable ways possible. For many a D’espairsRay concert is a life-altering experience, for some it’s just darn good rock, but either way it is not a show to miss.
1:00pm - 3:00pm, Room 224AC, D, F, G, H

The Marvels of 3D Animation
Come watch and learn as Jeff Lee guides you through the steps of using the 3D animation software provided by Hash, Inc.
1:10pm - 2:00pm, Room 222A

All-New, All-Different: The X-Men in 2006 and Beyond
Ryan Lowe and Sean Ryan, editors of the X-Office, will answer all your questions about the X-books.
2:00pm - 2:50pm, Room 222A

Two Actors in the House
Find out first hand from husband and wife Julie Benz and John Kassir what it is like to have two actors in the house.
2:00pm - 2:50pm Room 221D

Ninja Olympics
Five teams of four Ninja’s test their skills for prizes.
3:00pm - 5:00pm, Room 222B

MegaCon is disappointed to announce that Media Guest, Chris Rankin, will not be able to attend this year’s convention.

MegaCon Exclusives!
If exclusive convention items are your thing, you’ll be excited to hear about the Astonishing X-Men #13 Coliseum of Comics MegaCon 2006 exclusive that will be available for sale at MegaCon ’06. Be sure to stop by MegaCon Sponsor, Coliseum of Comics, booth to purchase one.

Retailer Conference!
If you’re a comic, game or anime retailer, be sure to head to MegaCon a bit early so you can participate in the 2006 Retailer Conference hosted by MegaCon ’06. All comic, game and anime retailers attending MegaCon are invited to attend the 2006 MegaCon Retailer Conference on Thursday, February 23.

Sponsored by Diamond and DC Comics, and co-sponsored by Inkworks, Top Cow Productions, 3 Boys Productions, and Superverse Productions, the gathering will include informative seminars, lunch, and an opportunity to meet with suppliers and fellow retailers. Registration for the event will run from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. with seminars running from 10:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Seminars will include Retail Law (with P.A. R. Steven Ruta), Guerilla Marketing (with Inkworks President Allan Caplan), Expanding the Comic Market (with Jamie Graham of Graham Cracker Comics and Phil Boyle from Coliseum of Comics), and Tales from the Road (with Diamond Field Sales Representative Eric Hitchcock).

Each store represented at the Conference will receive a special, limited-edition book from DC Comics; an exclusive action figure from Diamond Select Toys; a limited-edition Zoom Suit book from Superverse Productions; and the opportunity to purchase the MegaCon Limited-edition Astonishing X-Men Variant from Marvel Comics for $1.75 per copy (limit of 20 per store).

Admission to the Conference is $25 per attendee (limit 2 attendees per store), and includes a continental breakfast and lunch at TGI Friday's, as well as free admission to MegaCon from February 24-26.

The Conference will be held at the Doubletree Hotel — MegaCon's official hotel — on 5780 Major Boulevard in Orlando, FL. Please Note: Space is limited. Retailers wishing to attend should RSVP to Eric Hitchcock at heric@diamondcomics.com.

Hell Hath No Fury Like A Dead Woman Scorned…

It’s the battle of the genres when Reality TV and Horror join forces to become…The Scorned! Now reality meets DVD when IDT Entertainment’s Anchor Bay Entertainment releases The Scorned as a 2-disc special edition DVD on April 11, 2006 with an SRP of $24.98. Pre-book is March 14.

The Scorned features reality TV’s biggest personalities, who have appeared in some of the genre’s defining shows: Steven Hill (“The Real World You Never Saw: Las Vegas”), Jenna Lewis (“Survivor”, “Eco-Challenge: Fiji Islands”), Bob Guiney (“The Bachelor”, “Trista and Ryan’s Wedding”), Tonya Cooley (“MTV’s Real World: Chicago”), and Trishelle Cannatella (“The Real World: Las Vegas”, “The Surreal Life”).

The casting and filming of The Scorned was documented in episodic fashion in the hit E! Entertainment reality TV series “Kill Reality”, where backstage squabbles and romantic liaisons mixed with onstage death scenes (“They’re Dying To Make It In Hollywood”!). The cast was also featured on the “Kill Reality” radio show on TheFishBowl.com, hosted by Jenna Lewis and Rob Cesternino.

In a beach house on the Malibu shore, a young couple has a lovers’ quarrel. The boyfriend storms out, into the arms of their housemate. When the infidelity is discovered, a horrible cycle of violence and vengeance begins. Years later, a group of young twentysomethings move into the abandoned house, and soon they succumb to the seductive power of temptation and the equally compelling power of betrayal. These new tenants must now fight to survive and to unlock the shocking mystery of The Scorned.

Filled with fun references and tip of the hats to both the horror and reality TV genres, The Scorned special edition 2-disc DVD promises to entice consumers with such tantalizing bonus features as:

Widescreen Presentation (1.77:1), enhanced for 16x9 TVs
Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
Filmmakers’ Audio Commentary
Interview with Director Robert Kubilos
VIP Set Tour
Uncensored Outtakes and Fights
Rob C’s History of Reality TV
Real Auditions
Kill Reality Promo
Thefishbowl.com Radio Show
Sneak Peeks
Uncover The Secret DVD Extras

Preview of Finch’s Spider-Man Unlimited #14

David Finch is taking the time to tackle your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man in the pages of Spider-Man Unlimited #14, but Spider-Man isn’t the only one gracing Finch’s story. It not only features Web-head teaming up once again with the Black Cat but Spider-Man takes on his long-time nemesis…Dr. Doom?!

Writer C.B. Cebulski could not be happier to work with David Finch, and on Spider-Man of all characters.

“When Marvel read my Spider-Man Unlimited script, someone mentioned it would be the perfect story for Finch to tackle,” says Cebulski. “The stars must have been in alignment as it just so happened David had a hole in his schedule between New Avengers and Moon Knight that needed filling, and I'm honored he accepted the assignment. As you can tell from the pencils, I believe he had a blast drawing it!”

Check out this six-page preview for a peak into the blast Finch and Cebulski had at teaming up Spider-Man and the Black Cat to take down Victor Von Doom.

Before his revamp of Moon Knight coming this April, you cannot miss David Finch taking on the Amazing Spider-Man in Spider-Man Unlimited #14.

Thunderbolts Reach the Century Mark

The Thunderbolts can no longer call themselves “new” as they reach their milestone 100th issue and resume their original numbering. In this giant-sized anniversary issue, the machinations of Zemo are revealed and a T-bolt will make the ultimate sacrifice for redemption. Yes, one of our heroes will die. But who?

Thunderbolts #100 finds Zemo taking on the cosmically powered Photon and the winner…gets to save the universe? Plus, original T-bolt Moonstone returns, but whose side is she on?

Thunderbolts #100 features an all-new full length story and is jam-packed with centennial anniversary bonus materials. Its been a hundred issues since the T-bolts were revealed to be the Masters of Evil, but can these reformed villains be brave enough heroes when the entire world is on the line? Check out the 104 page Thunderbolts #100 to find out.


THUNDERBOLTS #100 (JAN062059)
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA
Pencils & Cover by TOM GRUMMETT
Everything old is new again as the New T-Bolts resume their original numbering! A 100th issue giant-sized extravaganza featuring ZEMO vs. PHOTON! And the winner will save the universe! The return of Moonstone! M.A.C.H. IV vs. Songbird! And a T-Bolt makes the ultimate sacrifice for redemption! And by the time the smoke clears, the Thunderbolts will have been shaken to their core! Features an all-new full length story, plus Special Centennial Anniversary Materials!
104 PGS./T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$3.99
FOC - 2/16, On Sale - 3/8/2006

Ultimate Spider-Girl in Ultimate Spider-Man 91

Ultimate Spider-Girl?!

Starting in Ultimate Spider-Man #91, Spider-Man is going to be getting some help in the form of a new superhero…Ultimate Spider-Girl?! And now that this new heroine is patrolling New York, exactly how does Peter Parker feel about it?

Guest-starring the Ultimate X-Men, Ultimate Spider-Man #91 also features the introduction of another character to the Ultimate Universe - Ultimate Deadpool. When he leads his Ultimate Reavers in an attack on the X-Mansion, quality-time is over for a visiting Peter Parker and his girlfriend Kitty Pryde.

Jam-packed with first appearances and mutants, Ultimate Spider-Man #91 is part one of the “Ultimate Deadpool” arc and begins the countdown towards the milestone one hundredth issue of Ultimate Spider-Man. And what does all this mean for Spidey’s burgeoning relationship with the X-Men’s Kitty Pryde? Will this relationship be over before it starts or will the two teen heroes take it to the next level?



ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #91 (JAN061997)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils & Cover by MARK BAGLEY
“DEADPOOL” Part 1 (of 5).
Spidey makes a trip to the X-Mansion to hang out with new gal pal Kitty Pryde only to find the School For Gifted Youngsters has been taken over by-Ultimate Deadpool and his Marauders! Uh-oh. Seems like a good time to cut class. Guest-starring the Ultimate X-Men!
32 PGS./RATED A ...$2.50
FOC - 2/16, On Sale - 3/8/2006

"The Hills Have Eyes" DVD from Anchor Bay Entertainment has new "tasty" price...

The Lucky ones saw the Original first!

On March 7th, Anchor Bay Entertainment, an IDT Entertainment company, will reduce the price of two great DVD editions of Wes Craven’s cult classic The Hills Have Eyes. The Special Edition 2-disc DVD set will be an astonishing $19.98 SRP and the single-disc Regular Edition will be priced at only $14.98 SRP. Presented in anamorphic widescreen with remastered Dolby Digital and DTS-ES sound, the original version of The Hills Have Eyes is the late 1970s horror masterpiece that still resonates today, even as the remake hits multiplex screens March 10th.

Uncut and Uncensored, The Hills Have Eyes tells the harrowing tale of the Carters, an all-American family on their way to California when their car breaks down far from civilization in the remote southwestern desert. But they are not alone: Watching from the hills is a clan of marauding inbred cannibals with an unspeakable taste for human flesh and brutality.

The Hills Have Eyes 2-disc DVD set serves up the following tasty bonus features:

Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Wes Craven and Producer Peter Locke
Theatrical Trailers
TV Spots
Looking Back On THE HILLS HAVE EYES – A 55 minute documentary featuring interviews with Writer/Director Wes Craven, Producer Peter Locke, actors Michael Berryman, Janus Blythe, Robert Houston, Susan Lanier, Dee Wallace, and Director of Photography Eric Saarinen
The Directors: The Films of Wes Craven – A 59 minute career retrospective featuring interviews with Director Wes Craven, and Actors Courteney Cox-Arquette, David Arquette, Adrienne Barbeau, Neve Campbell, Robert Englund, Mitch Pileggi, Bill Pullman, Meryl Streep, Kristy Swanson, and Ray Wise
Original Storyboard Art
DVD-ROM: Original Screenplay
DVD-ROM: Screen Savers
Behind-The-Scenes Photos
Posters & Advertising Art
Alternate Ending
Wes Craven Bio

The Road to Civil War is Paved with Controversy... and BETRAYAL!

Ripped from the pages of NEW AVENGERS, the Eisner award-winning team of Brian Bendis and Alex Maleev present this all-new special. An explosive hidden story of Marvel’s secret past, the secret history of Marvel’s most secret team -- how they came together and how they are ripped apart.

The events in this book act as a prologue to not one but two entirely different Marvel blockbuster summer events- CIVIL WAR and PLANET HULK.

Here are the first interior pages from this issue, showing the beginning strains that will cause the Marvel U to break! Get the FULL story on what really happened in NEW AVENGERS: ILLUMINATI and why this is the beginning of the end for so many this summer.

Look for more, exciting preview pages in the coming days!

The Marvel Universe is about to split down the middle and the line is drawn here!!! CIVIL WAR is coming! You will need to make a choice: whose side are you on? Well... whose side are you on???

NEW AVENGERS: ILLUMINATI
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by ALEX MALEEV
Cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
48 PGS./Rated A ...$3.99
FOC 3/9/06, On Sale 3/29/06