Good luck keeping your popsicles and ice cream from melting with the amount of heat that Warner Bros. Television Group (WBTVG) is bringing to Comic-Con International: San Diego. The Studio returns to the world’s leading pop-culture convention in 2015 with 18 series, including 13 returning fan-favorite shows and five programs making their much-anticipated Comic-Con debut. Following an at-capacity event last year, Warner Bros. Television and DC Entertainment are once again joining forces for another epic Saturday night event in Hall on July 11, featuring super heroes, Super-Villains, screenings and special appearances from returning favorites Arrow, The Flash and Gotham, plus highly anticipated series Supergirl and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.
Also participating in all the Comic-Con action are fan favorites and new additions including Arrow’s Stephen Amell; The Flash’s Grant Gustin; The Vampire Diaries’ Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder; Supernatural’s Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles and Misha Collins; The Originals’ Joseph Morgan; Childrens Hospital’s Rob Corddry; Mike Tyson Mysteries’ Mike Tyson; and cast members from Gotham, Supergirl, iZOMBIE and The 100 — to name just a few — who will join producers Greg Berlanti (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Blindspot), Jonathan Nolan & Greg Plageman (Person of Interest), Julie Plec (The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, Containment), Jason Rothenberg (The 100), Rob Thomas & Diane Ruggiero-Wright (iZOMBIE, Veronica Mars), Andrew Kreisberg (Arrow, The Flash) and many more to deliver the ultimate experience for fans, with screenings, panel sessions, autograph signings and media appearances.
- Warner Bros. Television and DC Entertainment have your Saturday night all taken care of with a nearly three-hour special event in Hall H on July 11 featuring the full pilot screening of Supergirl, along with panels, special surprises and moments inside the worlds of Arrow, The Flash, Gotham, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow and new digital series Vixen.
- Comic-Con essentials Arrow, The Big Bang Theory, Childrens Hospital, The Flash, Gotham, The 100, iZOMBIE, Mike Tyson Mysteries, The Originals, Person of Interest, Supernatural, Teen Titans Go! and The Vampire Diaries are all back in San Diego.
- World-premiere screenings of complete pilot episodes of highly anticipated new WBTV series Supergirl, Blindspot, Containment and Lucifer on Preview Night, plus an advance look at a new episode of Teen Titans Go!
- The Studio’s 2,400-square foot booth will once again be a must-visit destination on the convention floor.
SPECIAL SNEAK PEEK PILOT SCREENINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8
6:00–10:00 p.m. The first time is always the best time. Comic-Con and Warner Bros. Television proudly continue our annual Preview Night tradition, with exclusive world premiere screenings of the pilot episodes of four of the most highly anticipated series of the 2015–16 television season — Supergirl, Blindspot, Containment and Lucifer — as well as a brand-new episode of Teen Titans Go!. Ballroom 20
- Supergirl: In the vast DC Comics Universe of super heroes, the rich mythology of Superman and the planet Krypton is perhaps the most famous and instantly recognizable. Enter Supergirl! Born on the doomed planet Krypton, the preteen Kara escaped at the same time as the infant Kal-El, but didn’t arrive on Earth until many years later after being lost in the Phantom Zone. Now age 24, living in National City and working as an assistant for Catco Worldwide Media mogul Cat Grant, Kara has spent so many years trying to fit in that she forgot to ever stand out. All that changes when she decides to embrace her superhuman abilities and become the hero she was always destined to be. With the help of Daily Planet photographer James Olsen, her foster sister Alex, and the research of the super-secret, off-the-grid Department of Extra-Normal Operations (DEO) and its head, Hank Henshaw, who are tasked with keeping the Earth safe from aliens, Kara takes to the skies to protect her world.
- Blindspot: Sullivan Stapleton (300: Rise of an Empire) and Jaimie Alexander (Thor films) star in Blindspot, a one-hour action thriller from Berlanti Productions (The Flash, Arrow, Pan) and writer/executive producer Martin Gero (Stargate: Atlantis). Stapleton stars as hardened FBI agent Kurt Weller, who is drawn into a complex conspiracy when a naked amnesiac, Jane Doe (Alexander), is found in Times Square covered in a series of cryptic tattoos … including his name on her back. As Weller and his teammates at the FBI begin to investigate the veritable treasure map that is Jane Doe’s tattoos, they are drawn into a high-stakes underworld that twists and turns through a labyrinth of secrets and revelations — and the information they uncover might ultimately change the world.
- Containment: When a mysterious and deadly epidemic breaks out in Atlanta, a vast urban quarantine is quickly enforced, forcing those stuck on the inside to fight for their lives while local and federal officials desperately search for a cure in Containment. Torn apart from their loved ones, the survivors trapped within the cordon are fighting against not only fatal infection, but also isolation, fear and the disintegration of society around them. But as they begin to gain each other’s trust, hope remains, and on either side of the cordon unlikely heroes will rise.
- Lucifer: The story of the original fallen angel. Bored and unhappy as the Lord of Hell, Lucifer Morningstar has resigned his throne and retired to the City of Angels, where he owns an upscale piano bar called Lux. When a beautiful pop star is murdered, he feels something awaken deep within him for the first time in roughly 10 billion years. Is he actually capable of feelings for a human being? The very thought disturbs him. The murder attracts the attention of LAPD homicide detective Chloe Dancer, who finds herself both repulsed and fascinated by Lucifer. At the same time, God’s emissary, the angel Amenadiel, has been sent to Los Angeles to convince Lucifer to return to Hell. But with the City of Angels at his feet and a newfound purpose, Lucifer’s having too much fun to go back now.
- Teen Titans Go!: The Teen Titans are back at it again, in Teen Titans Go!, with all-new comedic adventures both in and out of Titans Tower. We’ll have you covered by screening a brand-new episode.
WBTV/WBA SERIES SCHEDULE
PLEASE NOTE: Series stars and creative teams scheduled to attend are subject to change. Additional information on panel sessions, signings and other events will be provided as news breaks.
FRIDAY, JULY 10
- 10:00–11:00 a.m. The Big Bang Theory (Season 9 Premieres September 21, Mondays 8/7c on CBS): The Big Bang Theory writers are returning to San Diego, to once again solve the comedy equation and take you behind the scenes of TV’s #1 comedy! Ballroom 20
- 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Lucifer (Midseason on FOX): Sexy, dark and irreverent, Lucifer makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the complete pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with series stars Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Lesley-Ann Brandt and DB Woodside and executive producers. Room 6BCF
- Time TBA Mike Tyson Mysteries (New Episodes Fall 2015 on Adult Swim): With a knockout appearance last year, Iron Mike Tyson is taking on Comic-Con again and this rematch is sure to live up to the hype. After a hilarious season of solving mysteries, the Mike Tyson Mystery Team will be back in the ring with all-new episodes on Adult Swim this fall. Join voice cast Mike Tyson and Rachel Ramras (MAD), and producer Hugh Davidson (The Looney Tunes Show) for a first look at the upcoming season and a Q&A discussion. Location TBA
- 12:30–1:30 p.m. The 100 (Midseason on The CW): Following the lethal events of the season finale, join The 100 stars along with executive producer Jason Rothenberg as they return to San Diego for their third appearance at Comic-Con. Ballroom 20
- 1:00–2:00 p.m. Teen Titans Go! (Thursdays 6/5c Cartoon Network): No trip to Comic-Con is complete without spending some time with the liveliest and craziest super hero team on television. Find out what new adventures, food fights and staring contests await Robin, Starfire, Beast Boy, Cyborg and Raven in season three of this hit animated series. Join producers Michael Jelenic (Batman: The Brave and The Bold) and Aaron Horvath (MAD) and members of the voice cast as they screen a brand-new episode, as well as take questions on all things Titans! Room 6A
- 4:30–5:30 p.m. The Originals (Thursdays 9/8c on The CW): The Originals will be returning for more sexy, supernatural intrigue, romance, alliances, betrayals and bloodshed in New Orleans this fall. Join executive producers Julie Plec and Michael Narducci along with series stars Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Phoebe Tonkin, Leah Pipes, Danielle Campbell and Charles Michael Davis for a special video presentation followed by a Q&A. Ballroom 20
- 5:45–6:45 p.m. iZOMBIE (Tuesdays 9/8c on The CW): The brainy hit iZOMBIE returns to San Diego for its sophomore appearance at Comic-Con. After the shocking events in the season finale, be among the first to get the scoop on what’s in store for season two with executive producers Rob Thomas and Diane Ruggiero-Wright, along with series stars Rose McIver, Malcolm Goodwin, Rahul Kohli, Robert Buckley and David Anders. Ballroom 20
SATURDAY, JULY 11
- 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Blindspot (Mondays 10/9c on NBC): The new one-hour action-thriller Blindspot makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the complete pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with star Jaimie Alexander (Thor films) and executive producers Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter and Martin Gero. Room 6A
- 5:15 p.m.–6:15 p.m. Person of Interest (Midseason on CBS): Person of Interest returns to San Diego for the fifth year! Join the discussion, as the science “fiction” of Person of Interest stays one step ahead of real-world events. Find out highly confidential intel when executive producers Jonathan Nolan, Greg Plageman and Denise Thé join series stars Jim Caviezel, Michael Emerson, Kevin Chapman and Amy Acker undergo a Comic-Con interrogation with a special video presentation and Q&A. Room 6BCF
- 6:15–7:15 p.m. Containment (Midseason on The CW): When a mysterious and deadly epidemic breaks out in Atlanta, a vast urban quarantine is quickly enforced, forcing those stuck on the inside to fight for their lives while local and federal officials desperately search for a cure. Containment makes its Comic-Con debut with a special screening of the entire pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with series stars David Gyasi, Christina Moses, Chris Wood, Claudia Black and Kristen Gutoskie, along with executive producers Julie Plec, Matt Corman and Chris Ord. Room 6BCF
- 8:00–11:00 p.m. Warner Bros. Television & DC Entertainment Present: Super Hero Saturday Night Offers Fans a Look Inside the Worlds of Arrow, The Flash and Gotham, plus a Pilot Screening of Supergirl and Video Presentations of DC’s Legends of Tomorrow and Vixen: DC fans … get ready for another Super Hero Saturday Night! Warner Bros. Television and DC Entertainment will again welcome fans into the worlds of some of DC Comics’ greatest characters during a three-hour super-experience in Hall H. The exclusive evening will feature a pilot screening of the highly anticipated new action series Supergirl, followed by a Q&A with stars and producers; plus, individual special video presentations and Q&As with stars and producers from Arrow, The Flash and Gotham. Also, don’t miss a special Q&A with cast and producers of DC’s Legends of Tomorrow and a peek at the new digital series Vixen. Hall H
SUNDAY, JULY 12
- 10:00–11:00 a.m. The Vampire Diaries (Thursdays 8/7c on The CW): The cast and creative team behind The Vampire Diaries return to San Diego — for the first time in Hall H — for a sizzling seventh appearance at Comic-Con. Series stars Ian Somerhalder, Paul Wesley, Kat Graham, Candice Accola and Michael Malarkey will join executive producers Julie Plec and Caroline Dries on stage for a video screening and Q&A session. Hall H
- 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Supernatural (Wednesdays 9/8c The CW): Join series stars Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, Misha Collins and Mark A. Sheppard, along with executive producer Jeremy Carver, as they return to answer questions from the audience about what’s in store for the eleventh season of this exciting series! Fans will also be treated to an exclusive video presentation featuring series highlights, as well as special features from the upcoming Supernatural: The Complete Tenth Season DVD and Blu-ray™ release on September 8. Hall H
- 1:00–2:00 p.m. Childrens Hospital (New Episodes in 2016 on Adult Swim): Adult Swim’s two-time Emmy®-winning live-action comedy returns to Comic-Con for a sixth year! Creator and star Rob Corddry and executive producer David Wain will be joined onstage by select cast for a lively (and medically accurate!) Q&A. Room 25ABC
TW: Discussions of child abuse and neglect.
The sitcom Scrubs ran from 2001- 2010 delighting viewers with the escapades of daydreaming Dr ‘JD’ Dorian and his friends. Unlike most TV sitcoms Scrubs perfectly balanced the comedic and the tragic. Being set in a teaching hospital with most of the main cast being doctors; there was plenty of fodder for some truly heart-wrenching storylines.
Like with most sitcoms, if you look under the jolly veneer (and have too much time on your hands) a much darker story emerges. In Scrubs, I would argue, this may be the past of its titular protagonist JD (played by Zach Braff). Some fans (ok, me) speculate that not only did JD have a less than ideal childhood but an abusive one.
Hints of this could be interpretated throughout the series:-
1. Attachment to Dr Cox
One of the most popular aspects of the series is the oddly touching relationship between mentor and mentee: Dr Cox (John C McGinley) and JD. It’s perfectly normal to admire and want to emulate an older colleague. But JD’s admiration of Dr Cox always seemed to go a step further. JD looked to the older doc as not only a mentor but a father figure.
JD explicitly states this throughout the series. Most notably in the finale; when during his much sought after hug JD claims Dr Cox smells “like a father figure”. This is odd as Dr Cox is only about 13 years JD’s senior. We know JD’s biological father (played by the late John Ritter) was pretty much absent during JD’s childhood. Is this yearning for a parental figure a way to fix JD’s damaged childhood?
As loathe as I am to criticise a fan favourite but Dr Cox openly mocks and belittles JD, almost never referring to his protégé by name. Instead by a vast archive of disparaging nicknames. The show does establish that there is love and respect om both sides, from Dr Cox deep down (deep, deep down). But why does JD not only put up with as well as seek out this treatment? Very masochistic. Or, has JD been subconsciously taught that taunts and aggression equate to love?
2. Feels Affinity with Dr Cox and Elliot
The show establishes early on that Dr Cox had an abusive homelife as a child. He openly reminisces about his parents being violent alcoholics. Is this the real reason that JD clamours for Dr Cox’s attention? Does JD see Dr Cox as an inspiration of someone who came from a similar background to his and became a well-respected doctor and family man?
Is the same true of JD’s on/off girlfriend, future wife and fellow doctor; Elliot? The show establishes that Elliot’s parents are mentally, emotionally, and financially abusive. Are JD and Elliot drawn to one another (partly) because they are both traumatised by their past? Even when it is proven time and time again that they are not suited.
3. Hostile Relationship with Older Brother
JD’s older brother Dan (Tom Cavanagh) appears several times in the show. Despite regularly visiting his kid brother, JD makes clear that these visits are not welcomed. JD’s ire is uncharacteristic as he’s shown as an ardent people pleaser throughout the show. Yes, Dan did bully JD throughout their childhood, though it’s unclear whether this was normal sibling rivalry or more.
In Series 3 Episode 5 ‘My Brother, Where Art Thou?’ JD attempts to cut off contact with Dan claiming that Dan never looked out for him. Even as children of divorce why is JD so upset his brother didn’t protect or “come through” for him? In the same scene JD comments about how their mother “married anyone that rang the doorbell”. Reading into this (hey, it’s what we’re here for) did Dan not protect JD from these multiple husbands?
4. Audience Never Actually See JD’s Mother
To me this is the most obvious that something is suspicious about the Dorian matriarch. Despite seeing every other cast members mother (except Dr Cox but its implied that his parents are dead) we never see JD’s. He, at the very least, seems to have a good relationship with his mother. Mostly speaks highly of her and she calls often. It doesn’t follow the trope many sitcoms use; having a character the audience never physically sees being used for comedic effect.
We hear JD’s mum (Barbara) speak in a flashback (Series 3 Episode 21 ‘My Self-Examination’). While Barbara was tucking young JD into bed she was saying some quite toxic things to her child, like how no women will ever be good enough for him. It is clear this scene is supposed to be somewhat creepy as Barbara is stroking the child’s face in an inappropriate manner. Adult JD even refers to his mum as “sexy” in the same episode. Very Freudian but in the light of everything else we are discussing: very disturbing!
5. JD’s Mother Drank
Linked to number 4 JD admits in Series 8 Episode 2 ‘My Last Words’ JD admits his mum “drank a lot”. Does this statement answer some questions about JD’s odd childhood?
6. JD is a People Pleaser
As we have already mentioned JD is a pathological people pleaser (what’s that like?). As a doctor he goes above and beyond for his patients. He does everything from finding patients estranged family members (Series 4 Episode 11 ‘My Unicorn’) to shaving his head in solidarity with a chemo patient (Series 5 Episode 15 ‘My Extra Mile’). Of course this is all very commendable but JD particularly enjoys the gratitude. Why does he need this validation? Is this a coping mechanism from a turbulent background who had to go above and beyond to get the love that should have been unconditional?
7. Extremely Tactile
Another of JD’s character traits is he extremely tactile. This is of course played up for comedy with his ‘sneak hugs’ (Series 6 Episode 13 ‘My Scrubs’) delivered to the stand-offish Dr Cox or the fact he has his friends on a ‘hugging schedule’ (Series 5 Episode 8 ‘My Big Bird’). Is this someone trying to seek the love and affection he never received in childhood? Or reassure himself that the people he loves won’t disappear?
8. Self-Sabotaging
A common reaction to childhood trauma is self-sabotaging behaviour. In his romantic relationships JD has this in spades. Throughout the run of the show JD has more romantic partners than the rest of cast put together. It is acknowledged that JD goes from relationship to relationship with alarming speed and breaks them off for shallow reasons. Again, he may be trying to seek the love and security he never had in childhood.
JD’s damaged psyche is put on full display when after spending the majority of the series chasing Elliot she finally leaves her loving boyfriend for him. JD immediately decides he doesn’t want her anymore to many fans outrage (Series 3 Episode 20 ‘My Fault’).
9. No Therapy
As well as never actually seeing his mother, we never see JD engaged in any kind of therapy. All of the other characters attend various types of therapy throughout the series. JD does not, despite arguably needing it the most. Is JD perhaps too scared of what therapy might uncover or not want to deal with his trauma head on?
10. Overactive Imagination
During Scrubs entire run (except the final series thou shalt not be named) hinges on JD’s overactive imagination. His outlandish fantasies make for excellent comedy and unique sequiturs to break up the storylines. But what if this was yet another coping mechanism for the hapless leading man?
Children from challenging background often disappear into elaborate fantasy worlds in order to escape their surroundings. Is this a habit JD could never quite kick? It would explain why he doesn’t seem to have a lot of control of his daydreaming despite being an adult. It is a comfort and a way to deal with the difficult stuff life throws at him.
If any or all of these speculations are true Scrubs goes from being a mere half-hour sitcom to a story of one man’s triumph over his dark past. Despite his flaws and failings JD has still made something of himself and is surrounded by his chosen family; all of whom love him for who he is. This is extremely inspiring.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.
The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.
The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.
“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.
Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.
Did JD from Scrubs Have a Dark Past?
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus
Review: Pushpa: The Rise (2021)
Kyle Gallner May I?
A Review of Krampus: A Horror Fan’s Ultimate Christmas Treat
Review of Black and White Spoon on Netflix
Holiday Movie Review: Violent Night
Y2K: Get up and Break Stuff!
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
