Up, Up, And Away!
Up, Up, And Away!
Skewed and Reviewed: Upcoming Movies 2027-2029
Join Gareth of Skewed and Reviewed as he looks at what Hollywood has in store for us over the next three years. The latest from Marvel, DC, Star Wars, as well as other top franchises will be covered as well as pending films. The panel also features Q and A and SWAG!
Friday
Make Mine Mythology!
Amazons! Hercules! Loki! Lore Olympus! Explore the ways comics and mythology reflect each other – moving between written and oral (or visual) traditions; later retellings introducing retcons that are beloved, hated and/or messy; and re-centering female and LGBTQIA characters, writers, and perspectives. Let’s get our classics and comics geek on!
Friday
The Future of Collecting
Shane Walsh (McFarlane Toys Digital) explores how digital collecting is changing the way fans connect with their favorite characters, communities, and stories. From trading and limited-edition drops to rewards and digital access, Shane will share how this new era of collecting is expanding fandom and redefining ownership.
Saturday
Breaking into the Comic Industry
James DesChamps and James Palazzolo are comic creators with some DIY credits that kept running into the same obstacle of not having enough 'cache' to get noticed at small, medium and large comic publishers. For aspiring writers and illustrators looking to create for big labels, this panel explores the early days - the first year - of building your project, making it as professional as possible, networking, refining, eliminating 'blind-spots', building publicity, seeking mentorship, and so much more.
Sunday
Batgirl / Poison Ivy - Miss Her, Kiss Her, Love Her (live script read)
Poison Ivy has gone underground, and Batgirl is determined to find her before her plans bloom. But with the Batman icing her out, Barbara needs to solve the case on her own. The pursuit will take her across Gotham, crossing paths with a who's who of femme fatales. This is a live reading of an original fan script created just for the amazing attendees of Fan Fusion!
Sunday
Trauma and the Supervillain Origin Story
Behind every great supervillain is a wound that was never healed. This panel explores how trauma shapes identity in comic book lore and how unprocessed pain combined with power can become dangerous. Join us as we psychologically unpack iconic villain origin stories and discover what they reveal about grit, brokenness, and the darker corners of the human condition.
Saturday
Creating the Worst Super Villain Team
In 2025 we pit the worst Justice League vs. the worst Legion of Doom (with the unexpected peoples champion Six Flags Batman coming out victorious). But that got us thinking of the wider world of F-Tier superheroes and villains from across all of comics. Come build the ultimate roster featuring the worst of the worst Supervillains!
Saturday
Anatomy and Physiology of a Metahuman
In a world where superheroes and supervillains capture our imaginations, the anatomy and physiology of a metahuman offers a fascinating glimpse into what makes these extraordinary beings tick. Have you ever wondered how muscle composition and skeletal structures might be adapted for superhuman strength? Or how cellular mechanisms could enable accelerated healing from injuries? This panel delves into the unique biological structures and mechanisms that differentiate metahumans from ordinary humans.
Sunday
Art as a Living: Not Just Fantasy
Art as a Living examines what it really takes to build a creative life through experience, discipline, and human connection. I will share how I got my start, lessons from working as a comic artist, and the difference between attending conventions as a vendor versus a guest, including unseen labor, relationships, and why divided leadership weakens creative growth.
Saturday
From Concept To Creation
How do I start? For how long? And how do I take my idea from concept to creation (without selling my soul)!? Stranger Comics President Sebastian will share writer tips plus offer insight on how he created his Niobe comic franchise, then made a deal at HBO, before forming a media company with Prentice Penny. If you want to know a publisher and writer's trade secrets, he will share tips and tools through first-hand experience in this not to be missed “How to” Panel. PLUS EVERYONE will have a chance to win free books!
Friday
"Umm... Actually..." Pop Culture Showdown
The only thing a true geek loves more than knowing more than you is TELLING you they know more than you. Join our distinguished panel of "experts" as they read off incorrect geek trivia tidbits, only to be corrected by the audience. But you only get points if you start off your correction with the words "Umm... Actually" in true geeky fashion (extra points if you really ham it up).
Friday
Sidekick Auditions! A Kids Talent Show!
The Superheroes of the Justice league Arizona need new sidekicks!
Come show the Justice League Arizona what you've got. Impress the crowd and a special panel of superhero judges looking for new sidekicks! Win your spot as an official Justice League Arizona sidekick! Sing, flip, cartwheel, impressions, ANY TALENT big or small! All participants receive a prize.
Saturday
Art as a Living: Not just Fantasy
Art as a Living examines what it really takes to build a creative life through experience, discipline, and human connection. I will share how I got my start, lessons from working as a comic artist, and the difference between attending conventions as a vendor versus a guest, including unseen labor, relationships, and why divided leadership weakens creative growth.
Friday
Spider-Man Brand New Day: From Page to Film
With Spider-Man: Brand New Day arriving in theaters in July, Jace from The Comic Source will explore the iconic comic book stories, characters, and moments that may be influencing the film’s direction. From classic villains to controversial status-quo shifts, attendees will gain insight into how decades of storytelling could shape the next chapter of Spider-Man on the big screen.
Friday
20 Years of Invincible
After the comic originally started in 2003 and the show coming out almost 2 decades later, some things are inevitably going to change over the years. And we have big thoughts on those changes! What went right, what went wrong, and what happens when an author reflects on their writing over the years and gets a chance to improve upon their storytelling.
Friday
"Umm... Actually..." (18+)
The only thing a true geek loves more than knowing more than you is TELLING you they know more than you. Join our distinguished panel of "experts" as they read off incorrect geek trivia tidbits only to be corrected by the audience. But, you only get points if you start off your correction with the words "Umm... Actually" in true geek fashion (extra points if you really ham it up).
Saturday
"Umm... Actually..." Comic Book Showdown
The only thing a true geek loves more than knowing more than you is TELLING you they know more than you. Join our distinguished panel of "experts" as they read off incorrect geek trivia tidbits, only to be corrected by the audience. But, you only get points if you start off your correction with the words "Umm... Actually" in true geeky fashion (extra points if you really ham it up)."
Friday
From Panels to Pages: Hooking Reluctant Readers with Comics
Struggling to get your child to read? Comics and graphic novels might be the game-changer. Packed with vibrant art, exciting stories, and relatable characters, these visual narratives make reading fun, accessible, and confidence-boosting. Learn practical tips for choosing high-interest titles, sparking curiosity, and making reading an adventure at home. We’ll also bust common myths: graphic novels aren’t “just for fun.” They’re powerful tools that engage reluctant readers, foster empathy, and inspire a lifelong love of stories.
Sunday
Roast the Justice League Arizona
Have you ever really wanted to tell Superman, Batman, or Wonder Woman what you REALLY think of them??? Well now is your chance! In this COMPETITIVE Roast, you get the chance to face off against other members of the crowd to throw zingers at the heroes of the Justice League Arizona! PG and Family Friendly! Audience members compete against each other until the ultimate roaster is declared! You might have a villain or two help you!
Friday
The Crow: Shared Vision
Come one and all to celebrate The Crow, where newcomers and longtime fans come together for an open discussion of this iconic comic. We’ll explore its emotional depth, striking visuals, and themes of love, loss, justice, and redemption. Whether it’s your first time reading or a longtime favorite, all perspectives are welcome. Come share your thoughts and discover new insights into a truly enduring story.
Saturday
Nerd Slam! 2026
The nerds of all fandoms will clash with words that will bring poetic truth to Phoenix Fan Fusion! Bring your precious poetic works of love, pathos, heartbreak, joy and grok! Have your nerd specialty challenged with questions and riddles to see if you can be the ultimate Nerd Poetry Slam Champion and take a prize.
Saturday
So You Want to Own a Comic Book Store?
Learn about the ins and outs of running a comic book a business. What needs to be done before you even open your doors. What day to day operations look like - the good, the bad and the hurdles you have to overcome. Talk to experts about their own shops and how to deal with new comic books every week!
Saturday
Unlock the Power of Indie Comic Book Publishing – Secrets Exposed!
Unlock the secrets of comic book success with Coffin Comics publisher Brian Pulido and writer Mike MacLean! Coffin Comics has smashed records, raising over $14 million through crowdfunding and easily more than triple that through online store sales! Dive into an exclusive session as the powerhouse team shares insider strategies to market and crowdfund your indie comics! Get every question answered! PLUS – Think you're the ultimate comic book fan? Prove it by tackling our comic book trivia challenge! Epic prizes up for grabs!
Saturday
Is that a Superhero?
You know a superhero when you see one, right? Superman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and that crowd. What about James Bond, Indiana Jones and Captain Kirk? Whatever you'd call them, is it superhero? Are you ready for a loud-mouthed audience-participation debate as we throw out the name of a character and ask the question, "Is That A Superhero?"
Friday
Character Design Secrets: High Speed Iconic Creation
Learn the professional workflow for creating legendary characters by mastering shape language, silhouettes, and advanced reference techniques. This session dives deep into the "Alchemist's" toolkit, showing you how to use visual design cues to tell a story before your character even speaks. You’ll discover how to take your ideas from a rough sketch to next-level design at lightning speed.
Sunday
Beyond the Panels: Graphic Novels in the Classroom
Dive into how graphic novels blend captivating visuals with storytelling to capture the attention of students who may struggle with traditional texts. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or comic enthusiast, we will equip you with fresh ideas for using graphic novels to inspire and motivate the next generation of readers.
Saturday
Mental Health for Creators
Some people have struggled for years trying to find a foundation to work from in their creative endeavors. Our hope is to encourage others to identify issues they may struggle with, direct those people to different support systems to help them function optimally and let them know they're not alone so they can create from a healthy space and be consistent.
Saturday + Sunday
Business of Comics: Turning Passion into Practice
Making comics is creative—but building a sustainable path in comics is a different challenge entirely. This panel brings together a group of working creators, along with a comic shop owner and a printer, to explore what it actually takes to move a comic from idea to finished product—and into the hands of readers. And hopefully answer the age old question, how do you move from “I made a comic” to “I can keep making comics”?
Saturday
ComicCons: Crime, Cops, and the Underworld of Comics
From hard-boiled detectives and mob bosses to real-world censorship, rackets, and moral panics, crime has always been woven into comics’ DNA. This panel explores crime fiction in comics alongside the industry’s historic ties to organized crime, underground publishing, and shady distribution networks. Creators and historians dig into noir storytelling, true-crime influences, the Comics Code era, and how lawlessness, on and off the page, shaped the medium we know today.
Saturday
Top Ten Spider-Man Stories of All Time
What are the greatest Spider-Man stories ever told and why do they still matter today? This panel counts down the Top 10 Spider-Man stories of all time, exploring the key moments, creators, and themes that have defined the character across decades. From the origin in Amazing Fantasy #15 to modern epics like Spider-Verse and Ultimate Spider-Man, the discussion highlights how these stories shaped Spider-Man’s legacy and continue to influence films, television, and pop culture.
Friday
The Roast of Invincible (18+)
They say Viltrumites' only weak spot is their egos. So come along with us as we target the Viltrum empire and drag the characters of Invincible the way Omni Man dragged his son through Chicago. We’ll be watching this family drama unfold before us like an extra messy episode of Maury. Nobody is safe in this episode of [Title Card]
Saturday
Loki's Theater of Mischief
Loki has gathered together an acting troupe of likely (or unlikely) heroes to tell his version of legendary Marvel tales. He has opinions. Featuring: The Man of Iron, The green-eyed monster, The King of Wakanda, the Witches of Midgard, the Galactic Guardians of Buffoonery, and many more. Loki will recount his woeful journey from overlooked prince to savior of the multiverse and will weave these tales through a theatrical experience unlike any other at Phoenix Fan Fusion. Variants, heroes, anti-heroes and villains are welcome. Bring knee pads (to kneel before your king).
Sunday
Punisher: Hero or Villain?
Is The Punisher a hero delivering justice… or a villain crossing a line no one should? Jace Milan of The Comic Source Podcast is joined by acclaimed comic creators Jimmy Palmiotti and Dan Panosian, who bring firsthand insight from working on the character and shaping his world. Hero, villain… or something else entirely? The final verdict is up to you.
Sunday
Immortal Legend Batman
Become the Night! In one of the weirdest decisions of DC, Kyle Higgins and Dan Mora collaborated on a Toku-inspired Batman series, tailor made for us nerds. There's Henshins! There's Explosions! There's deep introspection about Bruce's Morality and sense of Responsibility... come find out.
Saturday
Always Here - LGBTQIA Characters in Comics and Myth
LGBTQIA characters are older than you think in comics and mythology! Venture on this interactive, informative and entertaining trip through the history of LGBTQIA characters in genres we have always called our own! In comics, they have been sparingly on the page or queer-coded or slyly referred to as queer. In mythology, these characters were here, then erased, and are being put back on the page, no longer having to be read through a queer lens. We're back in the narrative!!
Saturday
Score to Film
Join us on an exciting and in-depth journey through the music from your favorite comic book films! This session will highlight specific pieces of music from various composers and how their scores drive different emotions from the audience. Music composer Durrell Johnson will take you through an experience like none other as he demonstrates through digital audio how these scores dramatically affect our moods and the way we view our favorite heroes and villains!
Sunday
Creating the Worst Super Hero Team
In 2025 we pit the worst Justice League vs. the worst Legion of Doom (with the unexpected peoples champion Six Flags Batman coming out victorious). But that got us thinking of the wider world of F-Tier superheroes and villains from across all of comics. Come build the ultimate roster featuring the worst of the worst Superheroes!
Friday
Idea Genesis: The Pro's Roadmap to Storytelling
Stop battling writer’s block and start mastering the "Idea Genesis" techniques used by industry pros to build comics, novels, and films. We’ll break down the specific storytelling frameworks, mind-mapping hacks, and productivity software needed to turn a raw concept into a creative blockbuster. You’ll leave with a specialized toolkit designed to crush creative stagnation and instantly organize storytelling chaos.
Saturday
The Marvel Clone Saga
30 years ago, Marvel finally put an end to one of the most infamously bad storylines in Spider-Man comics ever... or at least that's the official story. But how much do you really know about this story? We're taking a look back and discussing the story (both on and off panel) of this comic book run.
Friday
From Plot to Panel: Writing for Comics with John Jackson Miller
Writer of comics for Star Wars and many more franchises, guest author JOHN JACKSON MILLER shares pointers for plotting, scripting, and breakdowns drawing upon examples from those titles and other comics work he’s done, including for Marvel, Battlestar Galactica, Disney, Halo, Mass Effect, The Simpsons, and more. A slideshow presentation provides examples for taking your comic book from the plotted page to the final script, and a visual aid packet is provided showing a complete comic book story from beginning to end. As founder of the comics history site Comichron, Miller also details changes in comics writing methods over the years, and modern best practices.
Saturday
Is that a Supervillain?
Everyone knows a supervillain when they see one, right? The Green Goblin, The Joker, Doctor Doom, and so on. But what about borderline cases? Hannibal, Bates, evil stepmothers? Are you ready for a loud-mouthed audience-participation debate as we throw out the name of a character and ask, Is That A Supervillain?
Saturday
Celebrate Superheroes!
Superheroes break the boundaries of reality, taking us to futuristic cities, parallel dimensions, and cosmic battlegrounds. With their incredible powers and legendary battles, they fuel our wildest dreams and most thrilling adventures!
Journey into Mysteries!
Gear up, assemble your squad, and get ready for the ULTIMATE SUPERHERO EXPERIENCE. Three full days of power-packed action, epic battles, and heroic fun! Whether you’re a masked vigilante, a mighty warrior, or a mischievous anti-hero, this is your chance to unleash your superpowers and celebrate in true comic book style!
