I’ve been going to San Diego Comic-Con for quite awhile now. This year’s pop culture event took place from July 19th-23rd. I’ve been fortunate enough to have the summers off, be a local SD resident, and attend as a professional. Each year is full of surprises. So what has made this year’s Comic-Con so different than years’ past? The major news story surrounding our favorite international convention is the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strike! Unfortunately, writers and actors were not on hand to promote their television and film projects.
This made San Diego Comic-Con go back to its roots where the focus this year was, you guessed it, comic books. So how was the experience one might ask? Let’s dive in.
First off, here are some of the sights I saw at Preview Night (Wednesday). I was excited to exchange my Bob’s Burger bag for an Abbott Elementary bag. Thanks to the nice attendee for the trade!
On Thursday, I went to Hall H and saw the panel for the international Indian film Project K, followed by Spider-Man 2 the video game!
Next, my crew and I decided to take a break from the con and relax at the Hilton Bayfront:
My big win for Comic-Con this year was my invitation to the coveted Fandom Party! This party was sponsored by Paramount+ in partnership with Z2 Comics and Pinfinity! The last time I went to the Fandom Party was when Mark Ronson was deejaying a few years ago. This was such a highlight to kick off the Comic-Con 2023 as I saw some old friends and made some new ones!
On Friday, I went to the Collider panel where directors Justin Simien, Gareth Edwards, and Louis Leterrier discussed their past and upcoming projects. I was lucky enough to receive the Creator and Haunted Masion posters! Score!
My next adventure took me to Hulu’s Animayhem Activation! This event featured shows like the Simpsons, Family Guy, American Dad, just to name a few. I participated in some photo opportunities, and snagged some fine swag including a Futurama pin set and 2-dimensional back pack!
I went on to Peacock’s Continental: From the World of John Wick panel, hung out at Adult Swim for a little bit and had a few drinks at Altitude Sky Lounge!
Saturday brought me to the Petco Interactive Zone where I met Maximal Optimus Primal, Autobots Optimus Prime and Mirage!
I attended Hall H once again. Here I saw the panel for Gala’s Ghosts of Ruin as well as a new episode of Star Trek’s Strange New Worlds. Nothing to write about, but it was fun to view Strange New Worlds with fellow fans! My crew and ended our day with people watching at the Gaslamp!
On Sunday my crew and I got to take part in the Paramount+ Lodge activation. Let me tell you, gentle reader, that this experience was amazing! Not only did we score some cool swag, take photos, but we got free themed coffee and libations. I wasn’t able to get a complimentary good burger, but that’s okay, I got inked!
Last on my list was to attend the X-Men Fandom panel. I scored this beautiful Jean Grey and Emma Frost Art Print!
Overall, I had a wonderful time at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. My only criticism is that the Exhibit Hall was packed, more so than ever before. I didn’t really get to explore what the floor had to offer. Hopefully, Hollywood will have a presence once more. Thank you for the memories, Comic-Con International!
If you liked this review, please check out my previous thoughts on past Comic-Cons. What were your favorite moments at SDCC?
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