ID10T Music Festival & Comic Conival has revealed its full weekend schedule of music, comedy sets, panels and more. Con Man and Futurama have been added to the impressive lineup of confirmed panels alongside Portlandia, Mystery Science Theater 3000, Harmontown, Animaniacs LIVE!, The Magicians, and Stan Against Evil. A number of intimate themed panels and podcasts have also been announced, including live Nerdist Podcast tapings, panels from Valiant Entertainment and AfterShock, tech panel Robots Among Us: Fantasy vs. Reality, and many, many more. The groundbreaking, first of its kind event created and hosted by Chris Hardwick, will take over the Shoreline Amphitheatre and surrounding grounds in Mountain View, CA on Saturday, June 24th and Sunday, June 25th.
Panel additions include:
Con Man, featuring guests Nathan Fillion and Alan Tudyk, moderated by Chris Hardwick.
A decade has passed since Wray Nerely (Alan Tudyk) was an actor on the hit (well, cult hit) sci-fi show, Spectrum. Wray’s career has stalled in the vacuum of space while his best friend and former co-star, Jack Moore’s (Nathan Fillion), has hit warp speed. Aided by his truly certifiable convention booker, Bobbie (Mindy Sterling), Wray navigates the sci-fi convention circuit alongside a host of colorful who’s-whos and has-beens. He struggles with the trappings of a stagnant career, the adoration of a rabid fanbase, and an industry that only sees him as a quirky spaceship pilot.
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Futurama, featuring guests Billy West, Maurice LaMarche, and Phil LaMarr.
Hatched from Matt Groening’s brain, Futurama follows pizza guy Philip J. Fry (voiced by Billy West), who reawakens in 31st century New New York after a cryonics lab accident. Now part of the Planet Express delivery crew, Fry travels to the farthest reaches of the universe with his robot buddy Bender and cyclopsian love interest Leela, discovering freaky mutants, intergalactic conspiracies and other strange stuff. The panel will feature West (Philip J. Fry), Maurice LaMarche (Morbo) and Phil LaMarr (Hermes Conrad).
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Nerdist Podcast: Join Chris Hardwick, Jonah Ray, and Matt Mira for a live recording of a Hostful Nerdist Podcast!
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Previously announced panels include IFC’s Emmy nominated comedy Portlandia, featuring guests Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein, moderated by Chris Hardwick; award-winning comedy television series Mystery Science Theater 3000, featuring guests Jonah Ray, Hampton Yount, and Rebecca Hanson, moderated by Wil Wheaton; SYFY’s The Magicians featuring guests John McNamara, Sera Gable, Olivia Taylor Dudley, Hale Appleman, Arjun Gupta, and Summer Bishil, moderated by Chris Hardwick; Animaniacs Live! featuring original cast members Rob Paulsen (Yakko, Pinky from Pinky and the Brain), Maurice LaMarche (Brain from Pinky and the Brain), and Emmy-award winning composer Randy Rogel, moderated by Chris Hardwick; Harmontown, featuring guests Dan Harmon (Community, Rick & Morty), Jeff B. Davis (Whose Line is it Anyway), and Spencer Crittenden (HarmonQuest), plus special guests; and IFC’s original horror comedy series Stan Against Evil, featuring guests John C McGinley (Scrubs), Janet Varney (You’re the Worst), and Dana Gould (The Simpsons, Parks and Recreation), moderated by Jessica Chobot.
Additionally, ID10T has announced a number of themed panels happening in the Artist Alley, along with a number of podcast tapings in the Monster Energy Comedy Tent. Guests and descriptions are as follows:
Breaking Into Comics: Saturday guests include Phil Hester, Justin Greenwood, Brent Schoonover, Robert Wilson, and Morgan Beem, moderated by Matt Hawkins. Sunday guests include Nick Dragotta, Garry Brown, Robert Wilson, Jai Nitz, and Gerry Duggan, moderated by Jarrett Melendez. Ever wonder what it takes to break into the comic industry? Let these veterans tell you how they did it and how you can too!
Music Influencing Comics: Featuring guests Becky Cloonan, Ivan Brandon, Brenden Fletcher, and Andy Kuhn, moderated by Matt Horak. Learn how music has inspired, motivated and influenced comic book stories and art from some of today’s leading creators!
Drawing and Writing for Comics, TV, and Film: Featuring guests Mike Costa, Tom Fowler, Mark Sable, Blair Shedd, and JK Woodward, moderated by Jarrett Melendez. Often times the comic book world crosses over into the land of television and film. Come see how these creators have navigated that transition successfully.
Creator Owned Comics: Featuring guests Rick Remender, Gerry Duggan, Nick Dragotta, Matteo Scalera, Farel Dalrymple, Ivan Brandon, and Justin Jordan, moderated by Ben Blacker.
AfterShock Panel: Featuring the Babyteeth team of Donny Cates and Garry Brown, moderated by AfterShock.
Valiant Entertainment: X-O Manowar and Beyond: Jump into the largest independent superhero universe in comics right here with a guided tour through the foundations and future of Valiant’s most acclaimed series! From X-O Manowar and Faith, to Shadowman, Ninjak, Harbinger, Quantum and Woody, and beyond, discover where to start and what’s coming next for the award-winning comic book publisher that Buzzfeed calls, “a universe full of your new favorite superheroes!” With multiple new series kicking off this summer, don’t miss your chance to see what’s coming next for Valiant’s biggest comic book icons with an all-new presentation packed with sneak peeks and exclusive artwork!
Robots Among Us: Fantasy vs. Reality: Featuring guests Omar Abdelwahed (Head of Studio for SoftBank Robotics America), Alonso Martinez (Technical Director at Pixar Animation Studios), and more. Today we’re embarking on a new industrial revolution led by emerging technology breakthroughs in fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things, and autonomous vehicles. While we are still years away from a real-life C-3PO, robots are becoming an integral part of our lives. Come hear a panel of experts discuss how the burgeoning robotics industry is getting us closer to making C-3P0 less of a fantasy, and more of a reality. Walk away with a deeper understanding of how robotics already plays a role in our daily life, and how society will shift to become more comfortable with the idea of co-existing with robots and interacting with them on a deeper level. This panel will take a deep dive into how movies, books, art and entertainment have played a significant role in the development of today’s robots, and how fantasy is becoming reality as social robots become more prolific and technologically advanced.
Nerdist Comic Book Panel podcast: Host Ben Blacker discusses the business and creative process of making comics with other comics creators. Come hear Aftershock Comics’ Editor-in-Chief Mike Marts, Donny Cates, and Garry Brown talk about Aftershock’s place in the world of creator owned comics.
Nerdist Writers Panel podcast: The Writers Panel series is an informal chat moderated by Ben Blacker (co-creator of the Thrilling Adventure Hour; writer for Supah Ninjas, Supernatural, among others) with professional writers about the process and business of writing.
Nerdist Bizarre States podcast: Join Jessica Chobot and Andrew Bowser as they lift the veil and showcase the hauntings, urban myths, unsolved murders and general oddities that everyone has experienced but no one wants to talk about.
Tickets are still available for ID10T, and kids 10 and under are free with accompanying paid adult admission. With something sure to appeal to the whole family, Lionsgate, in partnership with Nerdist, will power a Laser Tag course themed to Saban’s Power Rangers in celebration of the film’s June 27 release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD. Two teams of five players each will compete head to head, with surprises lurking around every corner. Just outside of the Laser Tag course, attendees can also look forward to giveaways, costumes from the film, demos of the Power Rangers: Legacy Wars mobile game, and a special appearance on Sunday by the Yellow Ranger and Blue Ranger themselves, Becky G and RJ Cyler! Don’t forget to come dressed as your favorite Power Ranger for a chance to win some morphtastic prizes! Additionally, there will be table top gaming tournaments, a number of Toyota fan experiences (including a Cinderella-themed infinity photo booth, interactive beatbox, and live caricature station, to name a few), and much more!
Doors open at 12:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with panels running from 12:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., comedy from 4:30 p.m to 8:00 p.m., and music from 4:00 p.m to 11:00 p.m., attendees can expect a full day packed with entertainment, all in an outdoor setting. The full schedule for ID10T is as follows (subject to change).
Saturday, June 24th
Shoreline Amphitheatre Main Stage
9:45 p.m. – Weezer
8:15 p.m. – OK Go
7:10 p.m. – Lord Huron
6:05 p.m. – Car Seat Headrest
5:15 p.m. – The Mowgli’s
4:25 p.m. – Ron Gallo
3:40 p.m. – Tank & The Bangas
Mad Decent Stage in the Festival Tent
9:40 p.m. – Madeon
8:35 p.m. – Jai Wolf
7:40 p.m. – Gryffin (live set)
6:30 p.m. – Ape Drums
6:00 p.m. – John Beaver
Panels in the Festival Tent
4:30 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. – Nerdist Podcast
3:30 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. – Stan Against Evil Panel
2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. – The Magicians Panel
1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. – Con Man Panel
12:30 p.m. -1:20 p.m. – Mystery Science Theatre 3000 Panel
Monster Energy Comedy Tent
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Demetri Martin, Michael Ian Black, Jonah Ray, Dan Mintz & Irene Tu. Hosted by April Richardson.
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Nikki Glaser, Greg Proops, Matt Braunger, Hampton Yount & DJ Real. Hosted by April Richardson
2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. – Robots Among Us: Fantasy vs. Reality Panel
1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. – Bizarre States Podcast
Panels in the Artist Alley Tent
4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. – AfterShock Comics Panel
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. – Creator Owned Comics Panel
2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. – Breaking Into Comics Panel
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Valiant Entertainment: X-O Manowar and Beyond Panel
Sunday, June 25th
Shoreline Amphitheatre Main Stage
10:00 p.m. – Girl Talk
8:40 p.m. – TV On The Radio
7:20 p.m. – Animal Collective
6:00 p.m. – Crystal Castles
5:00 p.m. – Robert DeLong
4:10 p.m. – Mothers
3:30 p.m. – Sweet Crude
Mad Decent Stage in the Festival Tent
9:40 p.m. – Zeds Dead
8:35 p.m. – Troyboi
7:30 p.m. – Party Favor
6:45 p.m. – 4B
6:00 p.m. – Wax Motif
Panels in the Festival Tent
4:00 p.m. – 4:50 p.m. – Harmontown Panel
3:00 p.m. – 3:50 p.m. – Portlandia Panel
2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m. – Animaniacs Live! Panel
1:00 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – Futurama Panel
Monster Energy Comedy Tent
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Michael Che, Mike Phirman, Brent Weinbach, Marcella Arguello & Adrian McNair. Hosted by April Richardson.
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Garfunkel & Oates, Brian Posehn, Yassir Lester, Marcella Arguello & Natasha Muse. Hosted by April Richardson.
2:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. – Nerdist Comic Book Panel Podcast
1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m. – Nerdist Writers Panel Podcast
Panels in the Artist Alley Tent
4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. – AfterShock Comics Panel
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. – Breaking Into Comics Panel
2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. – Drawing & Writing For Comics, TV, and Film Panel
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Music Influencing Comics Panel
Information on tickets, pricing, VIP packages, and more is available at www.ID10TFest.com, along with a limited number of Fantastic Four-Packs with four tickets at only $55.00 each, plus fees. ID10T boasts a massive festival area directly adjacent to the amphitheatre’s music stage. All tickets, including festival general admission, reserved seating and VIP, have free roaming access to the festival area, which includes the panels and music in the Festival Tent, Monster Energy Comedy Tent, and full exhibitor village.
ID10T is produced by Live Nation and Synergy Global Entertainment (SGE).
ID10T is proud to partner with the following sponsors in its inaugural year: SiriusXM, Monster Energy Drink, hosting the ID10T Comedy Stage, Toyota, the exclusive automotive partner, Snickers, Krave Jerky, Peet’s Coffee and Tea, Musicians Institute, Lyft, and many more.
For more information on ID10T Music Festival & Comic Conival, please visit:
http://www.ID10TFest.com
http://www.facebook.com/id10tfest
Tweets by ID10Tfest
http://www.instagram.com/id10tfest
Indian cinema has a long-standing tradition of delivering grand narratives that are equal parts spectacle and soul. KGF: Chapter 1 (Kolar Gold Fields), directed by Prashanth Neel, is a prime example. This gripping action-drama chronicles the meteoric rise of Rocky, a man driven by a promise and fueled by his hunger for power. Released to critical acclaim, KGF has redefined the boundaries of storytelling in Indian cinema.
Set in the 1970s, KGF follows the journey of Rocky (Yash), a young boy born into poverty in the slums of Mumbai. From a tender age, Rocky is shaped by two forces: his mother’s dying wish for him to rise above his circumstances and his unyielding ambition to command respect and fear.
His journey takes him to the gold mines of Kolar, a lawless land ruled by brutal oppressors. The film tracks Rocky’s transformation from a street-smart hustler to a feared force who challenges an empire built on blood and exploitation.
The strength of KGF lies in its compelling protagonist. Yash delivers a magnetic performance as Rocky, embodying both his raw charisma and ruthless determination. The film paints a vivid picture of a man who thrives in adversity, using every setback as fuel for his ascent. Rocky is not a mere vigilante but a strategist, whose ability to inspire loyalty and strike fear sets him apart.
The movie captures his internal conflict beautifully — while he climbs the ladder of power, he never loses sight of his mother’s dream for him. This duality makes Rocky more than just a hero; he is a symbol of rebellion, resilience, and redemption.
At its core, KGF is a commentary on systemic oppression and the human spirit’s ability to rise against all odds. The stark contrast between the opulence of the gold fields’ rulers and the crushing poverty of its workers sets the stage for Rocky’s rebellion. His fight isn’t just personal; it’s for the voiceless, the oppressed, and the forgotten.
The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing the brutal realities of poverty and exploitation, making Rocky’s triumph all the more satisfying.
Prashanth Neel’s direction is nothing short of masterful. Every frame of KGF is meticulously crafted, from the sweeping vistas of the Kolar gold fields to the grimy underbelly of Mumbai’s streets. The gritty visuals are complemented by an electrifying background score that enhances the film’s larger-than-life moments.
The nonlinear narrative, interspersed with a journalist’s account of Rocky’s rise, keeps viewers engaged and adds layers to the storytelling.
The action sequences in KGF are a visual feast. Yash’s larger-than-life persona is amplified by choreographed fights that are brutal, balletic, and breathtaking. Each confrontation feels earned, showcasing Rocky’s ingenuity and brute strength. The climax, set against the backdrop of the Kolar gold mines, is particularly unforgettable.
KGF: Chapter 1 is a cinematic triumph that combines raw emotion, relentless action, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for. Yash’s performance and Prashanth Neel’s vision elevate the film to a league of its own, making it a benchmark in Indian cinema.
KGF is more than a film; it’s an experience. It’s a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. Rocky’s climb from the depths of poverty to the pinnacle of power is not just inspiring — it’s electrifying.
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed dramas or epic tales of rebellion, KGF delivers on every front. With its gripping narrative and unforgettable performances, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story.
Rating: 4.8/5 As Rocky says in the film, “Powerful people make places powerful.” By the end of KGF, you’ll realize that Rocky is one of them — and so is this film
Director: Nelson Dilipkumar
Starring: Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, Ramya Krishnan, Shiva Rajkumar
Genre: Action/Drama
Release Date: August 10, 2023
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Rajinikanth is Back with a Bang in Jailer: A High-Octane Blend of Style and Emotion When Rajinikanth takes center stage, audiences expect grandeur, charisma, and larger-than-life storytelling. Jailer does not disappoint. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, this action-packed entertainer delivers a well-crafted narrative that combines thrilling action sequences with moments of emotional depth. The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast, stylish direction, and a standout performance from the Superstar himself.
Jailer follows the story of Muthuvel Pandian (Rajinikanth), a retired prison warden who lives a quiet life with his family until a tragic event forces him to confront his past. When his son, an upright police officer, is killed while investigating a powerful criminal syndicate, Pandian embarks on a quest for justice. What sets this story apart is its layered exploration of a father’s grief, his thirst for vengeance, and the moral dilemmas he faces.
The narrative is a fine balance of emotional stakes and action-driven storytelling. Nelson’s direction ensures the pace rarely dips, keeping audiences hooked with unexpected twists and a perfect dose of humor.
Rajinikanth proves once again why he’s revered as one of India’s most iconic actors. His portrayal of Muthuvel Pandian is nuanced, blending vulnerability with raw intensity. At 73, Rajinikanth shows no signs of slowing down, delivering electrifying fight scenes, commanding screen presence, and a performance laced with his trademark style.
In quieter moments, Rajinikanth brings emotional weight to the character, making the audience empathize with Pandian’s pain and determination. This balance of action hero and grieving father reminds us of his versatility as an actor.
While Rajinikanth is undoubtedly the centerpiece, Jailer benefits from a strong ensemble cast:
Mohanlal (special appearance): Mohanlal’s cameo is brief but impactful, adding gravitas to the film. His scenes with Rajinikanth are a treat for fans of both legends.
Jackie Shroff: Playing a calculating antagonist, Shroff brings his trademark menace to the role. His dynamic with Rajinikanth adds tension and drama to the story.
Shiva Rajkumar: His performance as a pivotal character is intense and memorable, showcasing his ability to match Rajinikanth’s screen presence.
Ramya Krishnan: As Pandian’s wife, Ramya delivers a grounded and heartfelt performance, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Nelson Dilipkumar crafts a tightly woven script with moments of dark humor, intense action, and emotional resonance. The film’s pacing is a strength, as it rarely allows for a dull moment. Nelson’s direction ensures that each character, even those with limited screen time, leaves a lasting impression.
The screenplay does falter slightly in the second half, with a few predictable turns. However, the action sequences and Rajinikanth’s performance more than compensate for these minor shortcomings.
Cinematography: Vijay Kartik Kannan captures the film’s action and emotional moments with flair. The dynamic framing of fight sequences enhances their impact, while the quieter moments are shot with subtlety.
Music: Anirudh Ravichander’s pulsating score elevates the film’s intensity, while the songs complement the narrative without feeling forced. Tracks like “Hukum” have already become chartbusters.
Editing: R. Nirmal ensures crisp editing, particularly during the action scenes, maintaining a high level of engagement throughout the runtime.
At its core, Jailer is more than just an action film. It explores themes of justice, family, and the consequences of revenge. Muthuvel Pandian’s journey is not only about defeating his enemies but also confronting his own vulnerabilities and responsibilities as a father and husband.
The film also delves into the psychological toll of violence, making it more layered than the average revenge drama.
Rajinikanth’s Performance: Charismatic, powerful, and deeply emotional.
Action Sequences: Well-choreographed and exhilarating, with Rajinikanth at his best.
Supporting Cast: Exceptional performances from Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, and Shiva Rajkumar.
Direction: Nelson Dilipkumar’s deft handling of the narrative keeps it engaging.
While Jailer delivers on most fronts, the second half occasionally leans on familiar tropes. Some supporting characters, despite strong performances, could have been given more depth.
Jailer is a fitting showcase for Rajinikanth’s enduring star power and Nelson Dilipkumar’s storytelling finesse. With its blend of action, emotion, and style, the film is a worthy addition to the Superstar’s illustrious career. Fans of Rajinikanth will leave the theater satisfied, and newcomers will understand why he’s a legend.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Jailer is a must-watch for action lovers and Rajinikanth fans alike.
Indian cinema often delivers stories that resonate on both emotional and visceral levels. Kill, a gripping action-romance now streaming on Amazon Prime, is no exception. Directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, this high-octane thriller blends heart-wrenching emotion with relentless action, leaving viewers at the edge of their seats.
Set aboard a speeding train, Kill tells the story of Amrit (Lakshya), a loyal soldier returning home with a promise to reunite with his childhood love, Tulika (Tanya Maniktala). The couple’s tender, budding romance is the heart of the narrative, with scenes of their innocent exchanges juxtaposed against the chaos that soon engulfs them.
Their journey takes a dark turn when a gang of ruthless dacoits hijacks the train, intent on robbing and killing its passengers. What unfolds is a gripping battle for survival as Amrit transforms from a man in love to a one-man army, determined to protect Tulika and the innocent lives aboard.
The romance in Kill is as compelling as its action sequences. Amrit and Tulika’s relationship is characterized by a delicate vulnerability. Lakshya and Tanya Maniktala’s chemistry brings authenticity to their roles, making their love story feel real and raw. Their shared dreams of a future together contrast painfully with the brutal violence surrounding them, intensifying the emotional stakes.
The heartbreak lies in Amrit’s constant struggle to protect Tulika while confronting the fragility of their dreams in the face of overwhelming odds. The film poignantly captures how love can endure, even amidst devastation.
Lakshya delivers a career-defining performance as Amrit. Initially portrayed as a soft-spoken and unassuming soldier, his transformation into a relentless protector is both believable and inspiring. The action sequences are brutal and stylized, reminiscent of martial arts thrillers, but with a distinctly Indian flair. Amrit’s fight scenes are raw and unrelenting, embodying the desperation of a man with everything to lose.
The narrative subtly highlights themes of duty, sacrifice, and the lengths to which love can push a person. Amrit’s journey from a lover to a savior is as emotional as it is exhilarating, making him a hero worth rooting for.
The confined setting of a train amplifies the film’s tension, with claustrophobic corridors and dimly lit compartments serving as the perfect backdrop for the story’s chaos. Nikhil Nagesh Bhat’s direction ensures that every shot is purposeful, oscillating between tender romantic moments and pulse-pounding action. The cinematography and sound design heighten the stakes, immersing viewers in the characters’ perilous journey.
Kill masterfully balances romance and action, offering a visceral experience that tugs at the heartstrings while delivering adrenaline-pumping sequences. Lakshya’s standout performance and the film’s emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema and action-thrillers alike.
Kill is more than just an action movie; it’s a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. While its unflinching violence might not be for everyone, those willing to embrace its intensity will find a story that stays with them long after the credits roll. This film firmly establishes Nikhil Nagesh Bhat as a director to watch and leaves audiences eagerly anticipating what’s next for its talented cast.
Rating: 4.5/5 If you’re looking for a film that combines action, romance, and heart-pounding thrills, Kill is the perfect pick.
KGF chapter 1 – A Gritty Saga of Power, Poverty, and Redemption
Movie Review: Jailer
Kill on Amazon Prime – A Heart-Stopping Tale of Love and Heroism
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