Informed Art - Comic-Con Revealed

Keanu comes to the Con.

Thursday at Comic-Con started out dramatically with the giant curtain lining the back wall of Hall H giving way and slowly descending to the ground. Luckily no one was hurt in the incident. This technical malfunction delayed the first panel by nearly 45 minutes. But it was worth the wait for the fans.

The first film previewed was “The Day the Earth Stood Still.” The panel included stars Keanu Reeves and Jennifer Connelly, and director Scott Derrickson, helmer of “The Exorcism of Emily Rose.” The actors talked about how they dealt with their characters, with Reeves having his alien character learn to be human over the course of the film. In addition to an extended trailer, they showed two clips that showed Reeves’ Klaatu being interrogated and turning the scene on his interrogator. The other clips featured a bonding moment between Klaatu and Jaden Smith’s Jacob character.

Wahlberg, Kunis, Ludacris, and Moore.

Next the fans got two clips from the big screen adaptation of “Max Payne.” Coming on stage were stars Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, and Ludacris, along with director John Moore (2006’s “The Omen”). Along with the clip, the studio shared the trailer on the new improved HD screens in Hall H. Wahlberg said he actually read the script for the film before playing the game and was attracted to the role for the chance to kick ass again. With the cheers and hoots from the adoring fans, Wahlberg joked that he understands why the New Kids on the Block are getting back together.

Hugh Jackman makes a surprise visit.

Closing the first panel, the fans got a surprise with the appearance of Hugh Jackman aka Wolverine. Fans got the first look with a rough trailer for the film that debuts May 1, 2009. In the crowd was Wolverine creator Len Wein, who Jackman credited his career too. He was so excited to meet the creator he left the stage and entered the crowd to shake the man’s hand, bringing a roar from the crowd.