SDCC: DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power

All Photo Contents are provided by DreamWorks

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION PRESENTS SHE-RA AND THE PRINCESSES OF POWER AT SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2019

She-Ra and the Princesses of Power panel to be held on Friday, July 19, at 10:15am in 6BCF at San Diego Convention Center 

GLENDALE, CA – June 26, 2019 – For the honor of Grayskull! DreamWorks Animation is bringing its critically acclaimed Netflix original series She-Ra and the Princesses of Power to San Diego Comic-Con 2019 with a host of activities, including a jam-packed panel featuring executive producer Noelle Stevenson, Aimee Carrero (Adora/She-Ra), Karen Fukuhara (Glimmer), Marcus Scribner (Bow), and Lauren Ash (Scorpia) on Friday, July 19.

SHE-RA PANEL AND EVENT DETAILS
THURSDAY, JULY 18 

Her Universe Fashion Show presented by She-Ra and the Princesses of Power 

Doors open at 5:15 PM 

Show at 6:00 PM 

Harbor Ballroom, Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel 

DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power will be joining Her Universe and Hot Topic as a presenting sponsor for this year’s highly anticipated, 6th annual Her Universe Fashion Show at San Diego Comic-Con on Thursday, July 18th at 6PM in the Harbor Ballroom at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel. Celebrated as one of the must-see events at SDCC, fandom meets fashion as “geek couture” once again hits the runway in this thrilling competition where 24 fashion designers compete for the opportunity to design a fashion collection with leading Fangirl Fashion brand, Her Universe, for Hot Topic. At this interactive show, hosted by actress and Her Universe Founder Ashley Eckstein, the audience will choose one of the winners. Inspired by DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, the theme for this year’s show is the “Power of Fashion.” Her Universe, will also debut new She-Ra designs that will be available at Her Universe booth #1321 and Comic-Con fans will be the first to be able to purchase these limited edition looks!

FRIDAY, JULY 19
DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power 

10:15 - 11:15 AM 

Room 6BCF at San Diego Convention Center 

Join the Rebellion as executive producer Noelle Stevenson, Aimee Carrero (Adora/She-Ra), Karen Fukuhara (Glimmer), Marcus Scribner (Bow), and Lauren Ash (Scorpia) offer a peek inside the highly anticipated third season set to debut August 2 on Netflix. The panel will be moderated by Entertainment Weekly Senior Editor Patrick Gomez.

Signing: DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power 

12:00 - 1:00 PM 

Mattel Booth #3029 at San Diego Convention Center 

A She-Ra and the Princesses of Power signing with Noelle Stevenson, Aimee Carrero (Adora/She-Ra), Marcus Scribner (Bow), Lauren Ash (Scorpia), and Merit Leighton (Frosta).

SHE-RA AROUND THE CON
Mattel 

Booth #3029 

Retail Booth #2945 at San Diego Convention Center 

This year at SDCC, Mattel will have a host of fun activities that include the unveiling of an all-new doll collection inspired by She-Ra and the Princesses of Power. Throughout the weekend, fans will be able to pose as She-Ra in an interactive photo-op, view the full 2019 She-Ra doll line and collect She-Ra and the Princesses of Power giveaways including crowns, swords, pins, posters and more. Additionally, Mattel’s convention exclusive, the She-Ra vs. Shadow Weaver 2-pack doll set, which includes a free poster from Scholastic, will be on sale at retail booth #2945.

Her Universe 

Booth #1321 at San Diego Convention Center 

Her Universe will debut new She-Ra designs at the Her Universe booth, where Comic-Con fans will be the first to be able to purchase these limited edition looks!

Han Cholo 

Booth #1720 at San Diego Convention Center 

Han Cholo is bringing amazing DreamWorks She-Ra and the Princesses of Power items to San Diego Comic Con. The limited edition enamel pins will include a 2-part set featuring She-Ra and Catra, as well as Glimmer and Bow pins. Be sure to stop by booth #1720 and get these fun collectibles while supplies last!

Han Cholo Bow Enamel Pin Con Release (Picture One)

Han Cholo Catra VS Enamel Pin Con Exclusive (Picture Two)

Han Cholo Glimmer Enamel Pin Con Release (Picture One)

Han Cholo She-Ra VS Enamel Pin Con Exclusive (Picture Two)

ABOUT DWA 

DreamWorks Animation (DWA), a division of the Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, within NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation, is a global family entertainment company with feature film and television brands. The company’s deep portfolio of intellectual property is supported by a robust, worldwide consumer products practice, which includes licensing, and location-based entertainment venues around the world. DWA’s film heritage includes many of the world’s most beloved characters and franchises, including Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Trolls and The Boss Baby, and have amassed more than $15 billion in global box office receipts. DreamWorks Animation’s television business has quickly become one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality, animated family programming, reaching consumers in more than 190 countries. Creating a diverse array of original content in a variety of formats and delivering deep, fully immersive worlds served up with compelling characters, the studio has garnered 25 Emmy® Awards since inception in 2013.
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SDCC - Legendary Comics - Lost in Space: Countdown to Danger

LEGENDARY COMICS ANNOUNCES NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES

LOST IN SPACE: COUNTDOWN TO DANGER

The Official Four-Part Comic Book Expansion of the Hit Netflix Original Series to Hit Stores in October 2018

Legendary Comics & Television Crash Land at SDCC with

Special Comics Panel, as well as “Lost in Space” Free Fan Installation,

Saturday Night Intergalactic Dance Party, and more

LOS ANGELES, July 16, 2018 – The smash-hit rebirth of the beloved sci-fi classic “Lost in Space,” recently Emmy®-nominated for Outstanding Special Visual Effects, is set to continue in a thrilling four-part graphic novel expansion by Legendary Comics. The new comic series will invite fans to dive deeper into the backstories of their favorite heroic characters and will take the Jupiter 2 where it has never been before. Penned by writer Richard Dinnick (Doctor Who; Thunderbirds) and Brian Buccellato (Detective Comics; The Flash) with stunning artwork by Zid (Skull Island: Birth of Kong; Trick ‘r Treat: Days of the Dead), LOST IN SPACE: COUNTDOWN TO DANGER will feature all-new, untold adventures of the full crew of the hit Netflix Original show—including the Robinsons, Robot, Doctor Smith and Don West.

“At Legendary Comics, we love the new television series, so we couldn’t be more excited to expand the world of show with previously untold comic book adventures,” said Robert Napton, Senior Vice President of Legendary Comics. “There are some surprises in store we think fans will love.”

"What is exciting about comic books is that they are not limited by budget—only by the imagination,” said Executive Producers Kevin Burns and Jon Jashni. “This ‘Lost in Space’ comic is no exception. Legendary Comics has outdone themselves this time."

Thirty years in the future, en route to a distant colony, the Robinson family finds itself thrown off-course when their ship crash-lands on a mysterious and dangerous planet. On this strange new world, they encounter a hostile environment and an enigmatic alien robot. In order to survive, the Robinson family must rely on their training, and they’ll discover that no matter how lost they are, their family is their home. The new graphic series offers readers the chance to explore new missions, not aired on television, as our heroes struggle to survive in an unknown world full of new creatures, unexpected visitors, and new danger.

The first volume of the four-part series will be available in October 2018 online and in retail stores, with the subsequent volumes throughout 2019. A preview of Volume One recounting a mission featuring Penny.

Fans attending Comic-Con International: San Diego are invited to get a sneak peek at LOST IN SPACE: COUNTDOWN TO DANGER at the Legendary Comics panel on Friday night featuring “Lost in Space” comic scribe Richard Dinnick, as well as participate in other “Lost in Space” activities happening throughout the weekend.

JOIN LEGENDARY COMICS & LEGENDARY TELEVISION AT COMIC-CON
Legendary Comics, 2018 and Beyond Panel
Friday, July 20 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 29AB
Legendary Comics’ Robert Napton will be joined by a cast of special guests, who will share secrets about their upcoming comic releases, including the just-announced LOST IN SPACE: COUNTDOWN TO DANGER, the comic continuation of the hit television series; John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman and Erika Lewis’ original series ACURSIAN; Richard Dinnick’s new series ROB; Jessica Chabot and Erika Lewis’ FIREBRAND season two; the latest on MONSTERVERSE; and a few more surprises!

Legendary Television’s “Robo Romance”
Thursday, July 19 – Sunday, July 22 from 10:00am – 6:00pm daily
Location: Nerdist House at Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave.
Legendary Television, in partnership with Legendary Digital Network’s Nerdist, will present “Robo Romance,” a free-to-fans interactive photo installation with ROBOT—who, following season one, found itself at the center of a collective internet crush by series viewers. Participants can customize the setting of their photo meet up with “Robot,” including a special romantic background for enamored fans. Free “Lost in Space” giveaways will also be offered daily. Free and open to public.

Nerdist House: Ignacio Serricchio (“Don West”) Signing
Friday, July 20 at 5:00pm
Location: Nerdist House at Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave. Free and open to public.

Legendary Television’s “Robo Rhythm” Intergalactic Dance Party (Invite-only)
Friday, July 20 from 10:00pm – 1:00am
Location: Oxford Social Club, 435 Fifth Ave.
Legendary Television hosts “Robo Rhythm,” an invite-only intergalactic dance party at the Oxford Social Club. Guests are invited to enjoy cocktails at the open bar featuring Don West smuggled booze, while dancing to a one-night-only special guest DJ set by “Robot.”

Nerdist House: Live Interview with Matt Sazama and Burk Sharpless (Writers/Executive Producers)
Saturday, July 21 at 2:15pm
Location: Nerdist House at Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave. Free and open to public.
Legendary Television is currently in pre-production on the second season of “Lost in Space,” the Netflix Original series based on Irwin Allen’s classic 1960’s science fiction series starring Molly Parker (“House of Cards”), Toby Stephens (“Black Sails”) and Parker Posey (Café Society). In this modern update, the science fiction show follows the Robinson family as they fight against all odds to survive after crash landing on an alien planet and finding themselves surrounded by hidden dangers.

ABOUT LEGENDARY ENTERTAINMENT
Legendary Entertainment is a leading media company with film (Legendary Pictures), television and digital (Legendary Television and Digital Media) and comics (Legendary Comics) divisions dedicated to owning, producing and delivering content to worldwide audiences. Legendary has built a library of marquee media properties and has established itself as a trusted brand which consistently delivers high-quality, commercial entertainment including some of the world's most popular intellectual property. In aggregate, Legendary Pictures-associated productions have realized grosses of more than $15 billion worldwide at the box office. To learn more visit:www.legendary.com
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Stan Lee's L.A. COMIC CON Review

Stan Lee's L.A. COMICCON

October 28th - 30th

Los Angeles Convention Center

by Jean Vallesteros
All Photos by jamesvallesteros.com

Stan Lee’s annual comic book and horror gala made its way to the Los Angeles Convention Center on another Halloween weekend. 2016 marks the first year of its rebrand as Stan Lee’s Los Angeles Comic Con, formerly Stan Lee’s Comikaze. In previous years, it has become a hit with fans and draws thousands of people to downtown LA. The tradition continues as the 3-day extravagant is filled with eager fans wanting to display their creative cosplays and industry artists and writers showcasing their upcoming projects.

As in previous years, this convention has been heavily catered to the fans of geek culture and entertainment. Although it only housed one side of the convention center, LACC made its presence known in the South Hall. Driving down on Figueroa Street on that Saturday, your eyes are met with colorful costumes from all types of fandoms lining up to get inside. Inside the main lobby is a sea of characters coming to life. Attendees are greeted with smiles and photo-ops with the cosplayers’ creative costumes. Scattered throughout the lobby are staff personnel that kept a sense of order in a high-crowded area.

Upstairs in the exhibit floor is where all of the artists, celebrities, and vendors can be found. There were a good variety of vendors to check out that can offer satisfaction to any nerd’s needs. Perhaps the most engaging aspect of any comic convention is the opportunity to meet some of the people behind it. Whether it be an artist, creator or writer, you are likely to not just meet them, but also have the opportunity to ask them questions. One of the biggest differences of LACC from other fan conventions is that their panels are displayed on the mainstage of the exhibit floor. Panels are not hidden away in closed doors but in the wide open as you are walking on the exhibit floor.

With so many fan conventions happening on almost a weekly basis throughout the country, one would assume the ticket prices to go up as a way to compete with others. However, the organizers of LACC are clever to bring a large number of vendors to ensure ticket prices remain low. Fans are able to enjoy and celebrate with other like-minded individuals without breaking the bank.

Fan conventions are growing and so are the attendees. Each year the numbers continue to climb and it is not looking to move backwards at anytime soon. The one thing that was time-consuming for attendees is picking up their badges on the day of. Perhaps mailing out the badges to pre-sales can trim out the lines leading up to the entrance door. Nonetheless, the staff was able to move the crowd rather quickly.

The cosplay scene is perhaps one of main features of any con. It is also the most enchanting. Fans are able to display their love of a character through the art of cosplay. Whether it is an extravagant costume that took hours to complete or one that was quickly put together, the end result is the same…to celebrate the love for a character in their own special way. With our digital age, Social Media is splattered with some of the coolest costumes emanating from the convention. Thousands and thousands of photos are taken each day for keepsakes and even for professional use as photographers snap away to not only showcase the costumes, but to also sharpen their skills. 

There were multiple events happening in Downtown LA as the League of Legends World Championship Finals were being held next door at the Staples Center. Intentional or not, it turned Downtown LA into a colossal celebration of nerd culture. Although it was a quite a sight to see so much spillover between events, it did create major congestion on the streets going to Downtown Los Angeles.

Stan Lee’s Los Angeles Comic Con is a strong get-together for fans to rejoice their geek lifestyle and a place to meet others who share the same fandoms. It is more intimate that other fan conventions. Attendees are able stand together instead of being separated in rooms during panel discussions. LACC is a major player in the con scene as proven with the climbing numbers each year. Each year just keeps getting bigger, better, and stronger. 2017 already has a date: October 27-29. Stay tuned for ticket details at www.stanleescomiccon.com.

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Anime Expo 2016 Review

Anime Expo 2016

July 1-4, 2016

Los Angeles Convention Center

July 14, 2016
by James Vallesteros
Photos by jamesvallesteros.com

For most part of the country, Americans spend the Fourth of July weekend with family in their backyards cooking up tasty BBQ items. In a certain part of Los Angeles, thousands of people stockpile the Convention Center on Figueroa Street to celebrate the nation’s largest Anime Convention, Anime Expo. Hitting a record breaking 100,000+ Unique and 305,000 Turnstile attendance, 2016 marked its first year to reach such phenomenal numbers.

Bringing guests from all over the world, Anime Expo, which is organized by the non-profit Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation, attracted fans all over the country. Filling up the West and South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center, attendees were treated to a heap of entertainment and cosplays along with the intense Japanese Culture inspired vendors, artists, and exhibitors. In order to accommodate this event’s growth, the Kentia Hall parking garage was converted to the Artist Alley. There was a lot to experience during this extravagant weekend and attendees were able to immerse themselves throughout four days.

@minibobafett as Sora from Disney/Square Enix's Kingdom Hearts 3 Video Game

One of the prominent changes made this year were to stop non-badge holders from entering the South Hall lobby area. In past Anime Expo’s, the lobby area was open to all and only the exhibit floor required badges. With the recent shootings in Orlando and Dallas just weeks prior to AX, it was necessary to enforce it. On a side note, many attendees were standing in zig-zag lines outside of the convention center to pick up their badges on Day 1. Some complained about wasting over two hours in line which could have been used to spend time inside the exhibit floor. Many attendees are open to the idea of having badges sent to their homes prior to the event to save themselves from standing hours in line in the hot July Los Angeles weather.

The Fire Nation was hot at AX 2016.

@petahface as Fire Lord Ozai

@mikumouse21 and @nipahcos as The Banished Prince Zuko

@disneycutiepie as Princess Azula

The enormous growth since the prior year, the staff of AX were equipped with knowledge and were able to maintain a safe environment for all. Staff kindly asked people to not block major common areas that were used to get from one place to another and sustained a level of professionalism in the process. A trait that is rarely seen at other conventions I have attended before.

Anime Expo is directed towards the promotion of Japanese inspired popular culture but all walks of life gathered to showcase their art in the form of cosplay, art and creativity. Cosplayers came out with top tier costumes for all to see and appreciate. Many of the craftsmanship to these costumes clocked in hours and hours of work. The love and inspiration of a certain character really brings out the creativity from someone as seen with their costumes. Attendees, photographers (pro or novice), snapped away with their phones or cameras to take home a piece of memory with them. Children enjoyed the cosplay scenery as most of the characters worn by cosplayers are not commonly seen in theme parks. It is a breath of fresh air to see an animated character come to life.

@disneycutie as Silk, @sabrinaspaceprincess as Sabrina (Pokémon), @princesssunshinee as Xion (Kingdom Hearts 3)

This year saw the world’s first Anisong World Matsuri event that featured an assortment of live music and experiential performances. Electronic pop icon DJ TeddyLoid provided music during AX’s fashion show alongside unforgettable performances from J-Pop band Dempagumi.inc. From premiers such as Makoto Shinkai’s “your name”, exclusive clips of season two of FLCL, and industry top dogs like Shoji Kawamori, Kenji Horikawa, and Nami Sano, Anime Expo provided a place for these creative people to gather and for fans to get a unique once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Heroes & Villains Fan Fest Review

Heroes & Villains Fan Fest
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
November 21-22, 2015

By James Vallesteros

The inaugural Heroes & Villains Fan Fest emanated at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center on a weekend before the Thanksgiving Holiday. Billed as “It’s not your Dad’s comic con, it’s your Fan Fest”, it stayed true to its moniker. The festivities were built around giving fans an experience like never before. The usual convention scene is mainly made up of the artist alley, vendors, exhibitors, and behind curtains where the celebrities usually conduct their photo-ops and autograph signings. However, the setup took in consideration of the fans who really want to immerse themselves into their favorite fandoms.
The main attraction for the first stop was CW’s Arrow’s Stephen Amell (Oliver Queen) and Willa Holland (Thea Queen). The autograph signing for both of these stars were set up right on the exhibit floor. Even if you weren’t in line for an autograph, fans were able to get a glimpse of their favorite stars. The photo-op section was handled professionally by the volunteer workers who did an outstanding job keeping everything in order. The lines moved along smoothly and most fans agreed that the wait times were decent.

Prices for admission were affordable and most fans were happy with the autograph and photo-op price tags. There were other festivities happening on the floor exhibit as well such zip-lining, bouncy house for the kids, and arts and crafts. So when it was labeled “It’s not your dad’s comic con”, these added elements certainly validated that statement.

The San Jose McEnery Convention Center was a perfect choice for a Northern California stop. There were plenty of parking to accommodate the fans. The Convention Center is not super big like some other buildings, but it played well with the whole “fan experience”. Everything that the event had to offer was in walking distance and didn’t have to hop from one hall to the other.

Heroes & Villains Fan Fest is a unique kind of convention. It’s focus on one single franchise provided fans assurance that they will get what they came for. Much like its sister con, Walker Stalker Con, we see Heroes & Villains Fan Fest to expand to other franchises and the end result will remain to be an unforgettable experience.

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Comikaze Expo 2015 Review

Comikaze 2015
Los Angeles Convention Center
October 30 – November 1, 2015

November 7, 2015

by James Vallesteros

If you have never attended a comic convention before, consider attending Stan Lee’s Comikaze. Not only is Stan Lee the iconic man behind the Marvel Universe, but Comikaze is his Convention. But don’t be discourage if you are thinking this convention is mainly for the Marvel Enterprise, it is a massive collection of everything that is labeled “Pop Culture”. 

From Marvel to DC, Video Game Franchises to Anime Hits, Comikaze has become one of the biggest Comic Conventions in the West Coast. Usually scheduled around Halloween, it is a nice rejuvenation from getting drained out from all of the big blockbuster comic movies of the summer. The fall weather makes it a perfect environment for the cosplayers as well. With a wide variety of vendors, exhibitors and special guests, attendees are able to find what they are looking for.

One element that I have happened to enjoy about Comikaze is the implementation of having the panel stage right on the exhibit floor. This gives the fan a unique experience as oppose to having panels in closed doors. The Costume Contest is also performed on this stage and it systematically transform into a concert-like environment with people crowding the floor to see the stage.

The Los Angeles Convention Center accommodates plenty of room for all of the festivities even when another event is being held. There were two separate events going on but Comikaze was still able to deliver just as if they had the whole convention for themselves. The only complaint from attendees is the separation and distance between the two exhibit floors. 

With every year, it seems that more food vendors are parking their truck to feed hungry attendees. There were a variety of food to choose from to “regain” health so-to-say from experiencing all of the spectacular that Comikaze has to offer. Perhaps one suggestion is to have more food vendors inside the convention.

Comikaze is one of the biggest conventions in the west coast during the fall season. Stan Lee and the Comikaze staff have been able to deliver an experience that will last a lifetime year after year. We look forward this event year. The show gets bigger and bigger and we, just like any fan, are ready to immerse ourselves into a 3 day weekend of fun. 

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Long Beach Comic Con 2015 Review

Long Beach Comic Con 2015

Long Beach Convention Center

September 12-13, 2015

September 19, 2015
by James Vallesteros

When most people think of Long Beach, the obvious image in their head is probably a beach. However, twice a year, this city is invaded by an assortment of superheroes and villains when Long Beach Comic Expo and Con rolls around.

Located just walking distance from the coast, the Long Beach Convention Center serves as the perfect venue for such an event. The large walking space in front of the convention doors was filled with many vehicles from popular fandoms such as Batman, Jurassic Park, and Back to the Future. Attendees are welcomed with these iconic cars before they even step foot in the door.

Inside, the lobby is just a beautiful scenery and provides a spectacular setting for photo-ops with the cosplayers in attendance. The cosplay community in Southern California are approachable and are always willing to take pictures or simply talk about their fandoms. The exhibit floor is located below ground level was like an entrance to a whole different world. From a variety of vendors, exhibitors, and special guests, attendees are able to locate exactly what they are looking for. Whether it be to add a figure to their collection or to fill in the missing issue from their favorite comic book series, there were an abundance of vendors to choose from.

For the last three years, this convention has continued to grow. One might assume that the growth would make the con experience less pleasing, however, the Long Beach Comic Con staff has done an excellent job in keeping it unique and non-stressful. The staff was very helpful in locating certain aspects of the convention. The lines to pick up badges went smooth and attendees were able to go about their business and immerse themselves with the show.

With the list of Conventions our team attends each year, we always look forward for Long Beach Comic Con. It has become a place we see old faces and meet new ones as well. The two-day event is sure to put plenty of value into your admission price. Look out for Long Beach Comic Expo coming in early 2016.

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Wizard World Sacramento 2015 Review

Wizard World Sacramento

June 19-21, 2015

Sacramento, CA

Sacramento Convention Center 



By Kyung Kim
July 1, 2015

Twenty six years have gone by with nothing to hold on to, until I stepped foot into Wizard World Comic Con Sacramento.

On my way down to the convention hall, I met some very friendly people who were also on their way to the convention hall. We walked together while sharing many similar interests for anime, comic books, and cosplay. We arrived at the convention center and the group I was with parted, but I think it is safe to say that I made some new friends. I opened the glass door and walked in to a place filled with energy and excitment. The amount of people that was inside the building boggled my mind. I wanted to take pictures of everyone!

As I walked around snapping pictures, I stumbled upon the entrance for the dealer hall. It was lilke a whole new world in there filled with art, props, music and much more. If you have never been to a comic convention, it is basically an esemble of very talented people coming together to showcase their art. It was entertainment every where you go. Wizard World is known to gather the most talented in the industry, whether it be television, movies, artists, or authors, they know how to pick them and provide an experience like no other.

Mad Max: Fury Road Cosplayers

The costume contest was my personal favorite. As a cosplayer myself, it was very awe-aspiring to see everyone's creativity. To showcase it in front of a packed auditorium is another aspect that I find appreciating. It was great to be able to see other individuals' passion.

The winners of the Costume Contest

The Sacramento stop was my first Wizard World. Luckily I don't have to wait too long as the next Wizard World adventure in my neck of the woods will happen on Labor Day weekend in San Jose, CA. They have already created an awesome esemble of special guests. Tickets are now available at wizardworld.com. I will be there and I know you will be, too!

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Long Beach Comic Expo 2015 Review

Long Beach Comic Expo 2015

February 28-March 1, 2015

Long Beach, CA

Long Beach Convention Center

by James Vallesteros

Long Beach Comic Expo is surely becoming the premier convention for the first part of the year. The 2015 edition came early and was held at the Long Beach Convention center on the weekend of February 28-March 1. The move to the rear of the convention provided more room for exhibitors, artists, and vendors. The parking structure is directly in front of the main entrance which was a plus. It made going back and forth an ease especially for attendees buying those delicate prints, they were able to walk back to their vehicle where they are able to keep them safe.

MiniBobaFett guards the main entrance to Long Beach Comic Expo in the new and bigger area.

Although the lobby area of the old location of the convention provided beautiful backdrops when taking pictures of your favorite cosplayers, the new location was just as good. There was an open lobby area complete with a live DJ and plenty of staff to guide you along the way. Getting the badges was a breeze. Staff members were very knowledgeable where to direct attendees as to wherever they need to go.

Conventions are an all-day event and the in-house restaurant gave attendees a place to re-energize with food or a cold soft drink. Several food trucks were parked not too far from the main entrance. Attendees did not have to go far if they needed to get food.

There's lots of fun and entertainment outside and inside the convention.

The showfloor is a gigantic building that is basically rectangular. Booths were clearly marked and it was easy to follow the map that was provided inside the program booklet. It is roughly the same size as the fall show (Long Beach Comic Con). With that being said, attendees should be excited to know that the fall show will now be even bigger. The plan to expand and grow was in the right direction to accommodate the growing number of attendees and the growing number of guests.

MiniBobaFett gets an LBCE Exclusive and limited art print by Tobias Gebhardt in the huge Artist Alley section.

The showfloor was separated in sections so attendees were able to go to a certain section and be able to find what they were looking for. There were a mixture of artists at the artist’s alley. All genres were covered and guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s fandom from original art, funny mash-up, horror, kid-friendly, anime and so on.

Perhaps one of the best part of any convention is seeing the usual faces. Whether it be other con-goers, cosplayers (professional or amateurs), artists, or even celebrities, it is always a great time catching up with familiar faces. Conventions are becoming a place for reunions, a place to see old friends and make new friends. Long Beach Comic Expo/Con is just the perfect event to experience it.

HipHopTrooper and Leeanna Vamp

It is great seeing cosplayers at cons but the one thing that never cease to amaze me are the little ones that come in costumes. How cute is it to see a Little Miss Han Solo right next to a Mini-sized Boba Fett? Or a trio of actual-sized Jawas and the smallest evil Darth Vader force choking random people? We all know Deadpool is a hot commodity in the cosplaying community and it also reaches to the young at heart. And let’s not forget the little Riddler who stayed in character the whole time. Cosplayers are a big part of any convention and it seems that more and more are coming to Long Beach, some local and some as far as coming from Northern California.

All smiles when MiniBobaFett and Chihiro & Chieko are on the showfloor.

The panel rooms were in the lower level of the convention. At first it was a bit confusing but once inside, there were many staff members guiding attendees towards the right direction. The Jean BookNerd team attend the “When I Grow Up, I Want to Be a Cosplayer” panel featuring Trinity-All Stars, Kids can Cosplay, MiniBobaFett, Chihiro and Chieko, and The Boy Blunder. The panel was in a rather spacious room but it quickly filled up to show support for the little ones. The panel provided important tips for parents and kids as to what type of costumes they should wear, keeping the young ones entertained and well-fed and so on. But perhaps the most entertaining part of the panel were the Q&A with the little ones. Serious questions were asked by adults that were answered with the cutest and darndest responses from MiniBobaFett and twins, Chihiro and Chieko.

Hosted by Kids Can Cosplay, the panel talked about kids cosplaying featuring Trinity All-Stars, The Boy Blunder, MiniBobaFett and Chihiro & Chieko

The 2015 Long Beach Comic Expo was an improvement from last year in every way. Ticket prices are reasonable and you are guaranteed to walk away with memories that will last a lifetime. The fall show, Long Beach Comic Con, is set for September 12-13, 2015 and it is gearing up to be bigger.

For more information, please visit www.longbeachcomiccon.com.

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