San Diego Comic-Con 2023 was a whirlwind of excitement for film, television, and comic book enthusiasts who were treated to a captivating behind-the-scenes experience at Impact24 PR’s Panel Superblock Series. This exclusive event served as the ultimate destination for fans seeking an insider look at highly anticipated projects like “Yellowjackets,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Swarm,” “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies,” and more!
Kicking off the panel series, Impact24 PR made a powerful statement of support and solidarity for the ongoing SAG and WGA strikes that have been impacting the entertainment industry. “The creatives who are on strike are fighting for fair compensation, working conditions, and the future of our industry. Impact24 PR stands in solidarity,” the organizers declared.
One of the standout discussions was the “4th Annual Hollywood Game Changers: A Conversation with the Women Behind Popular Film and TV Projects” panel. Attendees had the privilege of hearing from accomplished women who are making waves in the entertainment industry. The panel featured distinguished figures such as Alisha L. Baijounas (Abbott Elementary) in the makeup department, Jaala Leis Wanless (Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies) in the hair department, Sara K White (Swarm) as the production designer, Rafaella Rabinovich (The Imperfects) as the costume designer, and Maura Corey (Kevin Can F*** Himself) as the editor. The engaging discussion was expertly moderated by Sabina Graves, a journalist and staff writer at io9 Gizmodo.
Sara K White, the production designer, highlighted the importance of creating inclusive environments in the industry. She expressed, “When someone is in an environment who knows what it is like to be the only person in the room, they end up being a leader, which makes it more welcoming for marginalized groups.”
Another informative panel, “From Script to Screen: Behind The Camera of Storytelling Across Diverse Mediums,” provided attendees with an insightful look into the journey of bringing projects to life from concept to completion. Esteemed panelists included Matthew Tishler (Hailey’s On It) as the songwriter and composer, Elle León Nostas (Mark of Death) and Andrew Penczner (Katari & The Last Gods) as executive producers and co-creators, Darren Fung (Unspoken, A Sugar & Spice Holiday, Equus) as the composer, Caroline Foley (Tiny Lion Animation) as the writer and director, and javadoodles (javadoodles LLC) as the animator. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Daniel Stellan Kendrick, Senior Vice President of Film & TV at IDW Entertainment.
During this panel, Elle León Nostas, one of the executive producers and co-creators, encouraged aspiring creators to forge their own unique paths. She emphasized, “Go your own way, do your thing. People are going to love it. You get so lost in the path that you think is right, that you forget about your passion.”
Also Check Out: Snowpiercer Memorabilia Auction Offers Fans A Chance To Own Iconic Pieces from the Acclaimed Series
The final panel in the Impact24 PR’s Superblock Panel Series, “Fan Favorites: Behind The Scenes of Popular Film and TV Shows,” treated attendees to a captivating glimpse into the making of beloved projects. The panel featured accomplished professionals such as Marshall Krasser (Yellowjackets) and Jamie Barty (I’m a Virgo) as VFX supervisors at FuseFX, Sherri Chung (Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai) as the composer, Jennifer May Nickel (Gotham Knights) as the costume designer, James Parnell (Twisted Metal) as the re-recording mixer & supervising sound editor, and Jeff Shiffman (Transformers: Earthspark) as the re-recording mixer at Boom Box Post. Director & Executive Producer Ben Simms (Running Wild with Bear Grylls, You vs Wild, Escape the Undertaker) adeptly moderated the discussion.
Costume designer Jennifer May Nickel took the opportunity to voice her support for the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, saying, “Be patient. We are striking for those who are just starting their careers. We deserve our pay, our healthcare, and better conditions.”
The Impact24 PR Panel Superblock Series at San Diego Comic-Con 2023 provided a truly unique behind-the-scenes experience for attendees, offering unprecedented access to industry professionals from various departments. Fans left with a newfound appreciation for the immense artistry and effort that goes into creating their favorite films and television shows.
For those who missed these enlightening panels, they will be exclusively available on Impact24 PR’s YouTube channel this Summer 2023: https://www.youtube.com/@impact24pr.