The annual Chicago Comics and Entertainment Expo (better known as C2E2) is almost upon us. We're looking forward to seeing some amazing costumes and perusing a gigantic selection of nerdy memorabilia that rivals the city's best comic book stores. The weekend is also an opportunity to see some of your favorite writers, artists, actors and creators talk about their craft at one of the convention's many panels and discussions. Take a break from walking around the convention floor and grab a seat at one of C2E2's most essential panels.
FRIDAY, APRIL 24
Dark Horse Build Characters (6:45–7:45pm, Room S402)
The Portland-based comic book publisher brings a stacked line up of guests to its flagship panel, including Dark Horse Editor in Chief Scott Allie, Itty Bitty Comics artists Art Baltazar (who has a band in Skokie shop Aw Yeah Comics) and Franco Aureliani, and The Goon creator Eric Powell.
Image Comics Presents: Creators Own Humor (6:45–7:45pm, Room S404)
If you enjoy a few yucks in your weekly pull list, you'll be rolling on the floor during Image's panel featuring hilarious guests like Chip Zdarsky (Sex Criminals), Skottie Young (I Hate Fariyland) and Ryan Browne (God Hates Astronauts).
Beer and Comics (7:45–8:45pm , Room S403)
Andrew Gill and Alison Cuddy, co-hosts of the "Strange Brews" podcast, are joined by representatives from Revolution Brewing, Three Floyds and Arcade Brewery to discuss the intersection of hoppy beverages and graphic storytelling. There may be some samples.
SATURDAY, APRIL 25
Jason Momoa (12:15–1:15pm, Room S406)
You were mostly likely introduced to Jason Momoa through his role as Khal Drogo in HBO's Game of Thrones, but you'll soon know him as the face of Aquaman as he joins DC Comics' cinematic universe. Find out about how he plans to communicate with fishes at this Q&A.
Marvel: Next Big Thing (4–5pm, Room S401)
2015 has already been a huge year for Marvel, bringing the launch of its Star Wars comics as well as the revival of beloved character Howard the Duck. Find out what's in store for the rest of the year as Marvel editors, writers and artists talk about their latest projects.
Max Brooks – Zombies vs. Vampires: The Extinction Parade Survival Panel (4:15–5:15pm, Room S404)
Author Max Brooks (son of Mel) is best known for doling out advice about how to survive a zombie outbreak, but at this panel he'll tell you how to stay alive during a zombies vs. vampires apocalypse. He might also talk about his recent comic, The Extinction Parade.
[adult swim] Presents: The Williams Street Panel (5–6pm, Main Stage S406)
Don't come to this panel unless you're willing to get the Too Many Cooks theme stuck in your head (again). The viral video's creator, Casper Kelly, will be in attendance in addition to creative talent from Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Your Pretty Face Is Going to Hell and Squidbillies.
How to Be a Nerd for a Living (5:30–6:30pm, Room S405b)
They say that you should do something that you love for a living, so attend this panel if you want to turn your geeky passions into a career. "Nerd For A Living" podcast co-host Wendy Buske will talk about how she started putting her obsessions to work.
C2E2 Crown Championships of Cosplay (7–10pm, Main Stage S406)
You'll see costumed attendees on the show floor all weekend long, but this is where a champion cosplayer will be crowned. Participants will compete for $10,000 in cash and prizes while being judged by industry experts.
Cards Against Humanity (8–9pm, Room S402)
The creators of everyone's favorite inappropriate party game gather to answer questions about comedy and game design. It should be more interesting than ______.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26
Thrilling Adventure Hour (11am–12pm, Room S404)
Ben Acker and Ben Blacker, the creators of the stage shows, podcasts, comic books and web series collectively known a the Thrilling Adventure Hour, make their way back to Chicago to talk about the long-running project with guests like Scott Adsit and Timothy Omundson in tow.
Sean Astin Q&A (12–1pm, Room S401)
Hear tales of Sean Astin's days spent traipsing through Middle Earth, taking the field at Notre Dame, and searching for the fortune of One-Eyed Willie at this questions and answer session with the prolific actor.
Stan Lee Spotlight (2:45–3:45pm, Main Stage S406)
We hate to be morbid, but comic book co-creator and frequent Marvel movie cameo-maker Stan Lee won't be around forever. Take advantage of a chance to hear the 92-year-old legend speak about his long career in the comic industry.