A. Lee Martinez
A. Lee Martinez is a fantasy/science-fiction novelist, and has been for almost two decades now. He's had thirteen novels published, including Gil's All Fright Diner, The Automatic Detective, Monster, and the Constance Verity trilogy. His novel Monster was adapted into the Chinese-language film Monster Run. He defines his style as Saturday Morning Humanism, and likes writing about robots, monsters, and aliens, not necessarily in that order.
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4:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
How to Write Non-Human Protagonists
What challenges arise when writing characters who are not human? Panelists explore how to write compelling protagonists who are aliens, robots, or other non-human entities.
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: Max Griffin, Rhonda Eudaly, A. Lee Martinez, David Carrico, Phillip Drayer Duncan
12:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Aliens Among Us: How Sci-Fi Reflects Our Relationship with "The Other"
Aliens in science fiction often symbolize the unknown or "the other." This panel delves into how depictions of extraterrestrial life mirror real-world attitudes toward cultural differences, migration, and coexistence. What do our aliens say about us, and how can they challenge our perspectives?
Moderator: Cap’n Ed
Panelists: Gypsy Jess, Tim Frayser, Cap’n Ed, David Carrico, A. Lee Martinez
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Autographs
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to get this guest's autograph.
Profile: A. Lee Martinez
4:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma G
Spectacle or Soul? The Decline of Sincerity in Blockbusters
From the Marvel Cinematic Universe to Star Wars and Fast & Furious, modern blockbusters often lean on spectacle, humor, and irony. But where are the heartfelt stories that once defined these films? In this panel, we'll examine how the shift to action-packed, self-aware storytelling has changed the emotional landscape of blockbuster cinema. Is sincerity a casualty of the modern movie industry, or is it just waiting to make a comeback? Let's unpack what we've lost -- and what we might still find -- in today's biggest films.
Moderator: Dara Fogel, PHD
Panelists: FoxDaddy, A. Lee Martinez, Charles Dane Clark, Dara Fogel, PHD, Shai Fenwick
6:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Bedlam 2 Boardroom
Author Readings
Hear the written word come to life! Join us for a special session where featured authors read selections from their works—ranging from sneak peeks of upcoming releases to fan-favorite passages. Whether it’s science fiction, fantasy, horror, or heartfelt memoir, these readings offer a unique chance to experience stories in the voices of the people who created them.
Moderator: A. Lee Martinez
Panelists: A. Lee Martinez
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Outdated Archetypes: Are We Just Done?
Is there a character type you just can't stand anymore? One that feels overdone or out of touch with today's stories? Whether it's the brooding Antihero, the bubbly Cheerleader, the noble Chosen One, or the wise Old Mentor, some archetypes just don't hit like they used to. Or do they? Join the debate as we discuss which tropes deserve retirement and which still have life left in them!
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: Raymond Markley, Lin Christie, Steven E. Wedel, Phillip Drayer Duncan, A. Lee Martinez