I can’t fully describe the scale and depth of San Diego Comic-Con. It was just OVERwhelming! Man, I am still pooped and I was only there for 2 days. Imagine if I was there for all 5 days.
Of course, I was mainly there for my American Komikeros project. Matt Abaya and I grinded throughout the weekend getting as many interviews as possible. We talked to some of the biggest names in the comic book industry– which I will keep under wraps for now. Overall, all of our interviewees were terrific and gracious. They openly embraced the American Komikeros project and had a lot to say about Filipino comic book artists. Our documentary featured artists were at Comic-Con as well– Tony DeZuniga, Ernie Chan, Alex Nino, and Philip Tan. Unfortunately, Danny Bulanadi couldn’t make it. Aside from filming our project, Matt and I did our best to enjoy all that is the “Comic-Con Experience.” We bought some merchandise, exclusive toys, and comics. We took some pictures and got some autographs. We also got lots of free stuff (which you can now find on eBay). We missed one thing… the panels. Yes, we missed the movie previews and celebrity interviews. Sorry I have no idea what happened at the Iron Man and Incredible Hulk 2 panel. Boo me. Speaking of celebs, we ran into random ones: Lou Ferrigno, George Takei, Gene Simmons, Feedback (from the Stan Lee reality show) and some of the Battlestar Gallactica cast. But yes, there were plenty more out there- we just didn’t see them (Jessica Alba). Another interesting thing was that Matt and I ran into so many friends especially from the Bay Area. It was like we never left home. Shout out to Bay Area artist Jesse Hernandez representing TFC’s The Nut Shack. Jesse is one helluva artist– he does vinyl toys too. While on the subject of friends, that’s our boy Patricio Ginelsa in the picture above. It was his first Comic-Con too and he “geeked” out to the fullest (ala Transformers). You’re my boy PG, always there for each other when it comes to our “exclusives.” Now we’re really broke. haha.
Comic-Con is one event I suggest visiting sometime in your life. If you’re a fan of anything that’s entertainment and pop culture related, this is the place to be. Although, I suggest going on a weekday than the weekend. So if you’re planning for next year, book your hotel now. Remember that over 100,000 attend Comic-Con. Luckily, I didn’t spend too much money (other than for food) and if you plan right, you can still walk out of Comic-Con with lots of free “costly” goods. While in San Diego, I ate at Christy’s Bakery (9178 Mira Mesa Blvd.). It is really one of the best Filipino bakery/ restaurants. Masarap!
