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Comic-Con International => CCI General Discussion => Topic started by: alyssa on July 25, 2022, 10:38:09 AM

Title: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: alyssa on July 25, 2022, 10:38:09 AM
it took me 20 min's just to get out of bed, I was so stiff this morning

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220725/ceccb973a5a8133502a162da9382bdc6.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220725/d198047368d1a02f51b20b2e2067aa45.jpg)
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: susanml10881 on July 25, 2022, 11:23:01 AM
Aw luckily I took the day off work and slept in then cleaned the bathroom and kitchen. Now doing tons of laundry. Still have to put away all my purchases and swag.  I booked a massage for later. I’m stiff too.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: TheNeck on July 25, 2022, 11:32:49 AM
i had an AMAZING time at SDCC this year. 2019 was going to be my final SDCC too. But after just going Thursday and Sunday, and of course fundays. I can't wait to get my 4 day badge for next year.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: Miclpea on July 25, 2022, 11:37:56 AM
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it took me an 20 min's just to get out of bed, I was so stiff
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220725/ceccb973a5a8133502a162da9382bdc6.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220725/d198047368d1a02f51b20b2e2067aa45.jpg)
Join the club. The little earthquake helped me to get up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: Michaelnaut on July 25, 2022, 01:23:38 PM
I don't think I slept long enough to have the muscles get stiff :D

This SDCC was all about the art this year and it did not disappoint...commissions and artist original art were top notch. I attended a few panels, and they were all well done, but the art is the standout for me.

Well, that and meeting Keanu Reeves :)
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: Jesse O on July 25, 2022, 01:47:22 PM
I set a budget for commissions and wound up buying no art (I have zero wall space left in my house and have decided to save up big bucks for a Bill Sienkiewicz painting - even if it takes me a while).

Loved the panels I attended - since I was with my nephew, we wound up at some I wouldn't have done if I was on my own, and they turned out to be highlights.

The Severance off-site was amazing. They set a really high bar for years to come.

As usual, my favorite exhibitors to chat with and buy from were Small Press. I wound up with a nice pile of books...

And of course, the greatest thing about SDCC 2022 was the interactions with fellow attendees. Conversations in lines, at booths, and just hanging around in between panels was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved it when our fandoms intersected, and often even more when they diverged. It's great to hear someone wax enthusiastically about something I hardly know. It's a big world. And SDCC is inclusive enough for us all. Gotta respect (and adore) that.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: Angology on July 25, 2022, 02:29:51 PM
It will take me some time to recover, but I am so glad I worked on getting my step count up before the Con - it definitely helped me.

We took a super chill approach, and it really worked for us (well, we did book it from Hall H before Funko ended, to avoid a line at MGH 😅) We did only a handful of panels, and I think we chose well (and took the right approach most times). Only minor bummer was not getting the Target pins (I only got Thursday's) I only bought one thing on the floor (we really didn't go around too much), and I bought it PN - was so nice to get it out of the way quickly (It was the pin set from Nickelodeon)
I only did one activation - Ghosts, and it was so worth it. It was fun, and the swag was worth it. We had a great time - missed having the WB/DC (and Cartoon Network) on the floor, and the floor swag was very limited - it seems harder than ever to get into the big booths, but we didn't let it bother us. (In past years, we could get into at least one with only a bit of stalking) At least Fox Animation had a daily Krapopolis button to replace the daily Cartoon Network buttons that we used to love collecting. We will check out the show, too.

I did continue the tradition of buying an exclusive online while walking towards the pedestrian bridge - always seems to happen (it was Mattel). And I managed to get all the Pops I wanted through the online sale (and the Loungefly bag I wanted)

Although my ankles don't feel that it was that chill...
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: Old Man Grey on July 25, 2022, 04:21:32 PM
After TurkeyCon and Wondercon I was very skeptical if this was going to be any good. I have to admit it was pretty great. I missed some of my favorite companies that didn't show but it still felt like the real Comic Con. I can't wait for next year.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Karin on July 25, 2022, 06:02:52 PM
I felt like inside the exhibit hall was lackluster. My favorite thing about comic con besides panels is the experiences you cannot have anywhere else. Besides the lil Monster High game everything else felt like a store. Even the Marvel booth seemed quiet (giveaway hr non withstanding). Was excited for Netflix and Disney+ and the first one was a mess and the second a store. I missed WB/DC. After roaming around for a few hrs I was done with it which I found kinda sad. Masking rules were very well enforced imo and I hardly saw anyone maskless indoors anywhere.

I loved loved loved the offsites. Did everything except Gray Man, DBZ, Nintendo Switch and Bob's Burgers/Multiverse of Madness. FX was fun and quick, I liked how streamlined it was. Disney+ was lots of fun with great swag, kinda wish I had gone back for an Arcadian mug. HotD was really cool and yet the line management made it almost unbearable. Severance was amazing and prob the most immersive offsite I've ever participated in. The DBZ concert was super fun even for us who don't really know that show. Abbott Elementary was cute and gave lots of nice swag, I used that bag all thru con. Prey screening was also a highlight for us and my predator loving dad. WD party was amazing too, wish I could have stayed a bit longer, alas Hall H NDL called. Ghosts was also very cool even if the palm reading line was ridiculous, I blame that one girl who stayed sited there for 15 min straight.

Did Hall H Saturday for the first time and enjoyed it. That line was a disaster, we were there for wristbands for more than 2 hrs and we weren't even that far back and yet still got Cs, very weird. Sunday Hall H was also a disaster right when the panels actually started, so glad for ADA or we wouldn't have made it.

Overall I had a great time and will gladly go back next year. I did/got 90% of the things in my list so it felt like a successful con. BUT, most of the problems like line management seemed like could have been avoided with more planning and better enforcing. I get that there was staff turnover and things out of their control but it was waaay to messy. Really hoping the exhibit hall comes back next year with better stuff, or well, maybe not cause that way I won't feel FOMO if I'm outside doing offsites instead like I didn't feel it his year. 

PS. Their IT system is horrible, I feel so bad for the volunteer manager who had to deal with it.

TLDR. The best part of comic con was the parts outside of comic con (Hall H not included)
 
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: rallyv on July 25, 2022, 06:06:28 PM
This was my wife and I's first real outing outside our house since lockdown 2020 so there was a lot of nervousness about it but we prepared as much as we could (got our second boosters 2 week prior and took as many precautions as we could). We did do WCA in spring but being LA residents, that's just a quick trip down the 5 and we never stayed past like 3 for it.

I as well budgeted a very large amount for artist commissions and spent a small fraction of that on two pieces (one was setup prior to con, the other was just a drop in).

I spent about an hour or two in the hall every morning but started get a little anxiety as the floor filled up. It was great seeing so much compliance for masking even if I saw a bunch of dicknosers and chin diapers, the vast majority of people were wearing properly indoors.

I didn't many panels but I did at least see every offsite. The one thing that honestly surprised me the most this year was the quality of the offsite swag. Syfy and peacock gave out quality cloth bags instead of the usual cheap vinyl. Dr Squach was giving out full bars of like $10 soap outside. Marvel gave out full 1.5 lb bags of pistachios. And this is just straight hand outs on the street, not even including the stuff given out inside of actual installations.

Also the weather was some of the best I've seen at a con in the 10 plus years I've been going. Absolutely perfect all weekend.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: dkd on July 25, 2022, 06:10:29 PM
As a TV-focused person, I found the TV panels to be in short supply this year.  Some that would have been in Ballroom 20 in other years ended up in Hall H and I couldn't get in due to lack of commitment to lining up early.  I also attended two TV panels that were "virtual" because the cast didn't show up (Rookie and Abbott Elementary).

Overall, I attended fewer panels than the typical year.  I did get into the Ten Forward thing and my friend and I had some nice dinners in the Gaslamp.  I also scored an invitation to the EW party, which was fun.

On the positive side, I found the floor to be more manageable than usual and I bought more stuff than I usually do because I could actually see the merchandise and approach the booths.

This was my 21st Comic-con and, for the first time, I am not sure I'll go next year.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Angology on July 25, 2022, 06:22:47 PM
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Ghosts was also very cool even if the palm reading line was ridiculous, I blame that one girl who stayed sited there for 15 min straight.
Tell me about it! We didn't even stay in that line - it took way too long. We got enough badges in the other activities to get a cup and a whistle (I had one extra, but gave it away) They should have re-thought that one.
Glad that the photo op gave you two more if you posted on SNS - we got four that way (plus the one each just for taking the picture)
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Karin on July 25, 2022, 07:12:33 PM
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Tell me about it! We didn't even stay in that line - it took way too long. We got enough badges in the other activities to get a cup and a whistle (I had one extra, but gave it away) They should have re-thought that one.
Glad that the photo op gave you two more if you posted on SNS - we got four that way (plus the one each just for taking the picture)

We totally skipped it too. I just wanted the mug, so I took like 3 dif pictures with my group and re did the arrow shooting like twice. Tarot reading was on point so it was kinda freaky  ??? haha.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Angology on July 25, 2022, 08:53:01 PM
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We totally skipped it too. I just wanted the mug, so I took like 3 dif pictures with my group and re did the arrow shooting like twice. Tarot reading was on point so it was kinda freaky  ??? haha.
I really want those Tarot cards! It was pretty on point, but probably universally so.
The cup was what I was after, too. I originally also got the arrow thing, but DH reminded me that I wouldn't probably be able to get on a plane with it (we don't check bags) It wasn't branded anyway - they were super nice and let me go back in and trade it in for the whistle, and gave me the extra one to give away (I stopped at the entry and flagged down one of the workers). The lady at the redemption counter laughed, but agreed.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Namron83 on July 25, 2022, 09:36:18 PM
At times it looked like only 2/3s of a past SDCC showed up. The con was great though, with only two low points.
1- Someone in our room tested positive on Saturday, which pretty much made the last night and ride home suck.
2- FedEx is a scam.

I didn't get home till around 730 PM last night after a 9 hour long drive in the heat (couldn't close windows and turn AC on cuz a passenger had covid). Took a shower when I got home and spent the next 4 hours unpacking and packing/printing orders/packages. I was falling asleep, but kept pushing myself to finish. Eventually I had to tell myself to stop and not tire myself out too much because if I did end up catching covid, I didn't want to be weak and exhausted prior to it hitting me. So I didn't get to lay down til midnight. Got about 6hrs sleep and immediately continued and finished everything from last night. Got another couple hours of sleep right after.

Anyways, I started going through my own purchases and I realized I only bought 2 acton figures for myself. I wish I bought more, especially the ones I had on my Want List, but eventually passed up on.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: susanml10881 on July 25, 2022, 10:31:20 PM
Sounds like I wasn’t the only one who had problems with the Netflix booth. The worst. Gave up. Yeah ABC/ Disney used to be better. Skipped it since it was just a store though they did have cute photo ops along the back. The line was always capped and didn’t move much so never got a chance to do it. Yeah usually marvel is walk to wall and you can’t even get in there.

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I felt like inside the exhibit hall was lackluster. My favorite thing about comic con besides panels is the experiences you cannot have anywhere else. Besides the lil Monster High game everything else felt like a store. Even the Marvel booth seemed quiet (giveaway hr non withstanding). Was excited for Netflix and Disney+ and the first one was a mess and the second a store. I missed WB/DC. After roaming around for a few hrs I was done with it which I found kinda sad. Masking rules were very well enforced imo and I hardly saw anyone maskless indoors anywhere.

I loved loved loved the offsites. Did everything except Gray Man, DBZ, Nintendo Switch and Bob's Burgers/Multiverse of Madness. FX was fun and quick, I liked how streamlined it was. Disney+ was lots of fun with great swag, kinda wish I had gone back for an Arcadian mug. HotD was really cool and yet the line management made it almost unbearable. Severance was amazing and prob the most immersive offsite I've ever participated in. The DBZ concert was super fun even for us who don't really know that show. Abbott Elementary was cute and gave lots of nice swag, I used that bag all thru con. Prey screening was also a highlight for us and my predator loving dad. WD party was amazing too, wish I could have stayed a bit longer, alas Hall H NDL called. Ghosts was also very cool even if the palm reading line was ridiculous, I blame that one girl who stayed sited there for 15 min straight.

Did Hall H Saturday for the first time and enjoyed it. That line was a disaster, we were there for wristbands for more than 2 hrs and we weren't even that far back and yet still got Cs, very weird. Sunday Hall H was also a disaster right when the panels actually started, so glad for ADA or we wouldn't have made it.

Overall I had a great time and will gladly go back next year. I did/got 90% of the things in my list so it felt like a successful con. BUT, most of the problems like line management seemed like could have been avoided with more planning and better enforcing. I get that there was staff turnover and things out of their control but it was waaay to messy. Really hoping the exhibit hall comes back next year with better stuff, or well, maybe not cause that way I won't feel FOMO if I'm outside doing offsites instead like I didn't feel it his year. 

PS. Their IT system is horrible, I feel so bad for the volunteer manager who had to deal with it.

TLDR. The best part of comic con was the parts outside of comic con (Hall H not included)
 
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: marcia29 on July 26, 2022, 07:02:36 AM
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Join the club. The little earthquake helped me to get up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I thought I felt tremors! Everyone else slept through...my first earthquake! Yeeehah.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Miclpea on July 26, 2022, 07:03:33 AM
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I thought I felt tremors! Everyone else slept through...my first earthquake! Yeeehah.
I felt it too. I dressed in case it was precursor!


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Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: rabbitwarren on July 26, 2022, 07:59:26 AM
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As a TV-focused person, I found the TV panels to be in short supply this year.  Some that would have been in Ballroom 20 in other years ended up in Hall H and I couldn't get in due to lack of commitment to lining up early.  I also attended two TV panels that were "virtual" because the cast didn't show up (Rookie and Abbott Elementary).


At least Abbott Elementary said right when the schedule was released that the panel was going to be virtual.  The Rookie gave no indication.  If they did, the people wouldn’t have wasted their time.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Karin on July 26, 2022, 08:04:25 AM
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Sounds like I wasn’t the only one who had problems with the Netflix booth. The worst. Gave up. Yeah ABC/ Disney used to be better. Skipped it since it was just a store though they did have cute photo ops along the back. The line was always capped and didn’t move much so never got a chance to do it. Yeah usually marvel is walk to wall and you can’t even get in there.

My sister and dad managed to get in first thing Sunday and couldn't even scan the code correctly because of how rude the guy was and how much he moved it. They weren't clear in the instructions either and she and dad left super confused and upset. I don't know if it was just that morning but they should have done an organized wall line. It looked chaotic.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Silenthillnight on July 26, 2022, 09:55:44 AM
I enjoyed the exhibit hall this year.  Wasn't too crazy and I could easily get to my favorite booths with relative ease minus the people who would randomly pause in the middle of an aisle.  My favorite thing was the panel with Omar Epps talking about his new book.  He has an infectious positivity while also coming off as grounded that is just really inspiring.

Before the con, I was a little sad about getting MGH again but since they're dog friendly and close to that park on the Marina, it was perfect and I couldn't ask for a better place to stay.  I can't wait for next year.  Maybe I'll actually have a friend next time and jump into that Hall H line for once, haha.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: SyndE on July 26, 2022, 10:05:18 AM
I'm so glad that alyssa started this thread! I took a relaxed and cautious approach this year, largely because the last two years have really beat the crap out of my body and mind, and I have to be careful about anxiety attacks in huge crowds. (Look, I was back in my room by 9PM every night. Give the two years I've had, having a hotel room with a huge bed, blackout curtains, and DoorDash was a vacation in itself!) So, three lists:

Pros:
+ I saw many, many amazing panels. I think my final count was 14, and it would have been higher if so much good stuff didn't conflict with each other! I was so inspired by the "History of Underground Comix" panel on Sunday morning, I bought the author's book immediately afterwards. I got so many great book recommendations from the book panels. And! Sitting seventh row for the "For All Mankind" panel made me so happy even though I didn't win signing tickets. Finally, there is no way Tiffany Haddish is ever going to be invited back to con after the delightfully twisted "Tuca and Bertie" panel.

+ The weather! Look, maybe I was a little evil sending photos and screenshots from AccuWeather app back to friends in Philly, where they were in the middle of a 95F+ heat wave, but wasn't it just PERFECT this year?

+ I ate many, many excellent fish tacos.

+ I felt fairly biologically safe - I only saw one completely unmasked person. And even though I'm pretty sure that the door staff were not catching all the orange wristbands, if people were wearing them, it means at least they showed their vax status.

+ I stocked up on the black licorice Red Vines at Ralph's. I can't find the black licorice variety anywhere else but southern California!!

+ The Sunday dinner - but I do want to apologize if I was a little shy.


Small cons:
+ The exhibit floor. I made sure to take one walk up and down the entire hall, but after that I limited myself to around the publisher tables, Artist Alley, and places I need to get to for preorder pickups. I just couldn't bring myself to stand in line for an hour to go through the Netflix, HBOMax, etc booths.

+ Lack of tiny free swag: buttons, small stickers, etc.

+ After the Tuca + Bertie panel in the Indigo Saturday morning, I wandered far off-grid for tacos, and then bolted. I saw the seas of people on 4th, 5th, and 6th and just could not do it. But that's just me.


Weird Ideas I came up with that will never happen, but discuss:
+ Making the aisles one-way in the exhibit hall, similar to how grocery stores did this at the beginning of the pandemic.
+ Selling Exhibit Hall-Only badges
+ Creating a Hall H Only badge
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: dkd on July 26, 2022, 11:06:52 AM
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Weird Ideas I came up with that will never happen, but discuss:
+ Making the aisles one-way in the exhibit hall, similar to how grocery stores did this at the beginning of the pandemic.
+ Selling Exhibit Hall-Only badges
+ Creating a Hall H Only badge

I thought the same thing about "one way only" aisles in the exhibit hall.

In regards to Hall H, I think that if they have a day like Saturday where Marvel is at the end of the day, preventing people who are only interested in GoT or Trek from attending those sessions, they should split Saturday into two sessions with a panel clearing in the middle.  I know that the con doesn't want to empty for EVERY panel.  They said so at the Talkback.  But, ONE panel clearing would double the number of wristbands, wherein everyone would have to choose either morning or afternoon.  If they get the afternoon, they would have to do Standby for the morning if they want to attend both sessions OR they would be able to do something else.

Hall H was pretty easy to get in except on Saturday.  Saturday was the challenge.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Karin on July 26, 2022, 11:21:58 AM
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I thought the same thing about "one way only" aisles in the exhibit hall.

In regards to Hall H, I think that if they have a day like Saturday where Marvel is at the end of the day, preventing people who are only interested in GoT or Trek from attending those sessions, they should split Saturday into two sessions with a panel clearing in the middle.  I know that the con doesn't want to empty for EVERY panel.  They said so at the Talkback.  But, ONE panel clearing would double the number of wristbands, wherein everyone would have to choose either morning or afternoon.  If they get the afternoon, they would have to do Standby for the morning if they want to attend both sessions OR they would be able to do something else.

Hall H was pretty easy to get in except on Saturday.  Saturday was the challenge.

This will never happen. The mess Hall H Sunday was during the afternoon proved it.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Berts on July 26, 2022, 11:34:19 AM
I had such a dualistic experience.

PROS
-I got to stay at The Omni which was amazing.
-On Wednesday I had a Preview Night Funko slot and got everything I wanted.
-I was able to go to the Fandom party and had an incredible time.
-I was able to go to Fundays and had an even more incredible time.
-I was able to go to the NatGeo "party" and I had a blast.
-Got to do a lot of great offsite (IMDboat, FX, Nintendo, DnD, Franklin gallery)
-I found the Yesterdays coin and got the XMen pin.
-I was able to get friends into the Pac-Man party and they had a wonderful time.
-I was able to get my mom into the Lord of the Rings party WITH the golden ticket and she had a fantastic time.
-I saw the Interview with the Vampire panel with my mom (who's an Anne Rice fanatic) and she was like a little kid which warmed my heart.
-The Cat Cafe is an annual tradition for my wife and I and it was wonderful as always.
-The energy and the enthusiasm for SDCC seemed to be cranked to 11 and that was electrifying.
-But my favorite part was that I met a LOT of forum/Discord members and I loved every second of hanging out with each one.

CONS
-The bag had one variety and there were no pins.
-No printed program and no boxes with pins.
-The floor was... bad. I just didn't really care all that much which is so strange. The absence of WB and especially DC was enormous and I could feel the void.
-Funkoville was cool and all but couldn't come close to making up for the hole left by WB and some other companies that pulled out.
-Adult Swim on the green not having their annual space sucked (but what they did do there instead was pretty funny. Also the giant inflatable floating thing was great.)
-The panel selection was uninspiring. There wasn't a whole lot I cared to see.
-Comics (my main attraction) were almost non-existent. I went back to 2013-2016 and counted the comic panels. Each publisher had around 25 EACH. This year, Marvel and DC had something like four or five each.
-The SDCC perch was cheap and the Line to get in was SLOW.
-The Petco zone was garbage with almost nothing there.
-The security was atrocious and they felt almost aggressive and angry at people instead of cheerful and helpful.


Overall, A LOT of the show felt like taped/glued together. Almost like taking out and eating a cake that isn't quite ready yet. Everything seemed like it was done to minimize cost while giving out the bare minimum experience. I completely understand that they took a pandemic hit, but they did get over $4M in relief funds that were forgiven and put on the special edition. As I type this, I realize that most of my pros have to do with things/companies outside of the convention and most of my cons have to do with aspects of the convention. OOF. There's more I'll think of an edit later probably. Over all, I had an awesome time and I'm counting down the days until 2023.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: chocolateshake on July 26, 2022, 11:39:35 AM
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-The Petco zone was garbage with almost nothing there.

I have to agree.  I think it took me longer to get through security, a first for the Interactive Zone, than I actually spent in it.  I really didn't understand the super long line in the middle just to get a little cup of a drink.

Normally the Interactive Zone is filled to the brim with little offsites.  This year there were only a few and even though they were spread out, they didn't really hide how empty the Zone was.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Berts on July 26, 2022, 11:44:21 AM
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I have to agree.  I think it took me longer to get through security, a first for the Interactive Zone, than I actually spent in it.  I really didn't understand the super long line in the middle just to get a little cup of a drink.

Normally the Interactive Zone is filled to the brim with little offsites.  This year there were only a few and even though they were spread out, they didn't really hide how empty the Zone was.

Yep. It took me a long time to get through those metal detectors because everyone's bag had to be checked and everyone has a big bag. I honestly don't understand the purpose of that security checkpoint.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Karin on July 26, 2022, 11:45:33 AM
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I have to agree.  I think it took me longer to get through security, a first for the Interactive Zone, than I actually spent in it.  I really didn't understand the super long line in the middle just to get a little cup of a drink.

Normally the Interactive Zone is filled to the brim with little offsites.  This year there were only a few and even though they were spread out, they didn't really hide how empty the Zone was.
The line was actually for a photo op, the drink itself had no line.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: rallyv on July 26, 2022, 12:31:27 PM
I usually spend a lot of time in the interactive zone and the food trucks are almost always a go-to for lunch for me and the fact they had a massive security choke point soured me to the whole thing. I went there once on Thursday and every other day I tried to go back, the line for security was basically around the block when I was looking to go in. It was extremely discouraging because it's one of my favorite parts of SDCC.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: MarvelGurl on July 26, 2022, 12:37:31 PM
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I had such a dualistic experience.

PROS
-I got to stay at The Omni which was amazing.
-On Wednesday I had a Preview Night Funko slot and got everything I wanted.
-I was able to go to the Fandom party and had an incredible time.
-I was able to go to Fundays and had an even more incredible time.
-I was able to go to the NatGeo "party" and I had a blast.
-Got to do a lot of great offsite (IMDboat, FX, Nintendo, DnD, Franklin gallery)
-I found the Yesterdays coin and got the XMen pin.
-I was able to get friends into the Pac-Man party and they had a wonderful time.
-I was able to get my mom into the Lord of the Rings party WITH the golden ticket and she had a fantastic time.
-I saw the Interview with the Vampire panel with my mom (who's an Anne Rice fanatic) and she was like a little kid which warmed my heart.
-The Cat Cafe is an annual tradition for my wife and I and it was wonderful as always.
-The energy and the enthusiasm for SDCC seemed to be cranked to 11 and that was electrifying.
-But my favorite part was that I met a LOT of forum/Discord members and I loved every second of hanging out with each one.

CONS
-The bag had one variety and there were no pins.
-No printed program and no boxes with pins.
-The floor was... bad. I just didn't really care all that much which is so strange. The absence of WB and especially DC was enormous and I could feel the void.
-Funkoville was cool and all but couldn't come close to making up for the hole left by WB and some other companies that pulled out.
-Adult Swim on the green not having their annual space sucked (but what they did do there instead was pretty funny. Also the giant inflatable floating thing was great.)
-The panel selection was uninspiring. There wasn't a whole lot I cared to see.
-Comics (my main attraction) were almost non-existent. I went back to 2013-2016 and counted the comic panels. Each publisher had around 25 EACH. This year, Marvel and DC had something like four or five each.
-The SDCC perch was cheap and the Line to get in was SLOW.
-The Petco zone was garbage with almost nothing there.
-The security was atrocious and they felt almost aggressive and angry at people instead of cheerful and helpful.


Overall, A LOT of the show felt like taped/glued together. Almost like taking out and eating a cake that isn't quite ready yet. Everything seemed like it was done to minimize cost while giving out the bare minimum experience. I completely understand that they took a pandemic hit, but they did get over $4M in relief funds that were forgiven and put on the special edition. As I type this, I realize that most of my pros have to do with things/companies outside of the convention and most of my cons have to do with aspects of the convention. OOF. There's more I'll think of an edit later probably. Over all, I had an awesome time and I'm counting down the days until 2023.

I appreciate this post. While I was contemplating whether or not I was going to do SDCC I decided not to fret about possibly not having a bad Wed-Friday because in years past I learned that I had more fun outside of the convention center than inside. COVID is becoming an excuse for companies who provide bad or downgraded service. Some like staffing may be legit, but a lot of the cons in this thread have been present for years before 2019. I loved the idea someone had about making aisles "one way" although I know that would never work.

I also don't know why in an era where "tv is king" both WC and SDCC dropped the ball on those. I know they tend to rely on the WB/CW properties and CW is looking like it's about to be dismantled, but there are plenty of shows on streaming platforms that would fit right in at SDCC. We shouldn't have to pay $300+ to go to what is essentially a flea market with lackluster panels. Panels is what really drew me to SDCC to begin with, but now I barely find anything worth scheduling. I did have some minor FOMO because the atmosphere and especially the weather looked great, but I didn't have any regrets about skipping it this year. Maybe I'll do every other year from now on or go explore other conventions around the country.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on July 26, 2022, 12:46:43 PM
Comic-Con 2022, by 21st San Diego Comic-Con, was a good one: I'd say it's a better-than-average Con for me and the fam!  I went to all the panels I really wanted to, a few I kind of wanted to but didn't plan on seeing, got some great swag, bought the few exclusives I really wanted + a few other things, and didn't miss anything I _really_ wanted to see.  Thanks to being in a lineup group for another awesome year I only had to spend one 3 hour shift in line for Saturday Hall H (plus a few hours waiting for wristbands & a few hours Sat. morning waiting to get in) so I can't complain, really.  I scored well with panel swag, and I didn't go over-budget on stuff!  Plus, I kind of unexpectedly got one of my "Infinity Gauntlet" comics signed by artist Ron Lim to go with my Jim Starlin signature I got at SDCC SE (of course, I MUCH rather would've liked to have gotten one of the first couple issues signed by artist George Perez, which would've meant he was still alive, but...you know... :( ).

One reflection this year, is that I WAS WRONG; I was told explicitly by CCI there was no special Pro Entrance into the Exhibit Hall only to see with my own eyes that there was!  I had several Pros convincing us they had indeed used the Pro entrance, explained explicitly where it was, but I chose to believe CCI's information.  That was absolutely wrong!  I of course didn't see that entrance/sign until Thursday late morning/early afternoon when it didn't matter much, but I look forward to utilizing that entrance in 2023.

With the exception of some issues I had with the Hall H line in particular, I have no complaints!  Usually on Tuesday/Wed. afternoon of the week I start wondering if I'm too old for this bit of crazy, if maybe my SDCC days of attending every day are through, if I even really like doing all of this, etc.  For me, Sunday evening driving away from the Gas Lamp I was legit sad for the Con to end.  I didn't need to be on the Exhibit Floor one more time, and I was in the last Hall H panel of the week so I did close that one out, but I was already feeling a bit of sadness that it was over for the year & I couldn't WAIT to be there in 2023!

I look forward to having the dust settle and gearing up for Returning Badge Sales (to help out friends since I don't really need it w/my Pro badge). 
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Vapors on July 26, 2022, 12:59:42 PM
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I also don't know why in an era where "tv is king" both WC and SDCC dropped the ball on those. I know they tend to rely on the WB/CW properties and CW is looking like it's about to be dismantled, but there are plenty of shows on streaming platforms that would fit right in at SDCC. We shouldn't have to pay $300+ to go to what is essentially a flea market with lackluster panels. Panels is what really drew me to SDCC to begin with, but now I barely find anything worth scheduling. I did have some minor FOMO because the atmosphere and especially the weather looked great, but I didn't have any regrets about skipping it this year. Maybe I'll do every other year from now on or go explore other conventions around the country.

You do realize that SDCC, has zero influence in what panels to show right? That’s a decision for the studios and channels/streamers to make. All SDCC can do is offer the time slots and if it gets filled, it gets filled. If not, then you have a situation where they basically just had a movie screening of Lightyear and no panel for any Disney movies.

I don’t disagree with your assessment that companies are using Covid as a cover, but I think It’s more economic than anything. No panels means no costs to transport in talent, no rooms to book, no real effort to make at booths or swag. A lot of marketing departments got affected, and part of me suspects that with Covid around, studios and companies will use it as cover to save money, limit their costs. Which means fewer panels or, if they do have a panel, less talent on the panels. They still filled the schedule, so it’s not like there’s a lack of things to discuss whether it’s about comics, toys, cartoons, collecting, etc.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Transmute Jun on July 26, 2022, 02:10:18 PM
Here is my review of the con.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2022/07/26/sdcc-2022-a-cons-rebirth/

In short, I had a terrific time! There were some things missing, but still more than enough to fill my time and cause me to make hard choices. I did not meet anyone who felt like they had been able to do everything that they wanted. And ultimately, that's what we want, right? A con so filled with options that we have choices. CCSE and WonderCon were severely lacking in that department. SDCC was so much closer to 'normal'.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Angology on July 26, 2022, 02:29:27 PM
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I usually spend a lot of time in the interactive zone and the food trucks are almost always a go-to for lunch for me and the fact they had a massive security choke point soured me to the whole thing. I went there once on Thursday and every other day I tried to go back, the line for security was basically around the block when I was looking to go in. It was extremely discouraging because it's one of my favorite parts of SDCC.
I felt bad for the food trucks in Petco. The security line definitely affected the traffic they would see at a huge event like this one. I went specifically for Ghosts, but we sometimes go there just for lunch, but we didn't this year, because of the line.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on July 26, 2022, 03:55:55 PM
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I thought I felt tremors! Everyone else slept through...my first earthquake! Yeeehah.
If it makes you feel better I've lived in San Diego since summer 1999 and I've probably felt earthquakes _maybe_ 5 times: almost every time was when it was large enough to make national news  :P
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on July 26, 2022, 04:06:52 PM
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You do realize that SDCC, has zero influence in what panels to show right? That’s a decision for the studios and channels/streamers to make. All SDCC can do is offer the time slots and if it gets filled, it gets filled. If not, then you have a situation where they basically just had a movie screening of Lightyear and no panel for any Disney movies.

I don’t disagree with your assessment that companies are using Covid as a cover, but I think It’s more economic than anything. No panels means no costs to transport in talent, no rooms to book, no real effort to make at booths or swag. A lot of marketing departments got affected, and part of me suspects that with Covid around, studios and companies will use it as cover to save money, limit their costs. Which means fewer panels or, if they do have a panel, less talent on the panels. They still filled the schedule, so it’s not like there’s a lack of things to discuss whether it’s about comics, toys, cartoons, collecting, etc.
Not to mention what COVID protocols may be like for studios, as well as in other countries.  For example, when "Peacemaker" was shooting in Canada, actors had to quarantine for 2 weeks when entering the country; if a production is shooting in another country with stricter protocols, or studios require production members (actors & on-set crew) to be in a 'bubble,' I can see why studios wouldn't want a potential disruption in their schedules.  I was almost surprised there were as many 'big' panels as there were, and a panel like Marvel had so many cast/crew: it didn't escape me that the casts they had up on stage in Hall H were wrapped so this was more of a marketing/promotional thing rather than when, say, CAPTAIN AMERICA had just started shooting a few days when the cast & director flew from Europe to USA for the Hall H panel and then flew back the next day to resume shooting.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: chocolateshake on July 26, 2022, 07:31:58 PM
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Not to mention what COVID protocols may be like for studios, as well as in other countries.

Didn't at least one studio say they didn't send their talent because they can't risk covid shutting down production.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Vapors on July 26, 2022, 09:15:35 PM
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Didn't at least one studio say they didn't send their talent because they can't risk covid shutting down production.

I won a few limited signings for Disney animation shows, usually done in person to meet staff and talent. But this year, all posters were pre-signed and just given to you at the signing times. Some panels did have their talent there, it was the in-person part Disney must have we forbid.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: waltbionik on July 27, 2022, 12:50:01 AM
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Comic-Con 2022, by 21st San Diego Comic-Con, was a good one: I'd say it's a better-than-average Con for me and the fam!  I went to all the panels I really wanted to, a few I kind of wanted to but didn't plan on seeing, got some great swag, bought the few exclusives I really wanted + a few other things, and didn't miss anything I _really_ wanted to see.  Thanks to being in a lineup group for another awesome year I only had to spend one 3 hour shift in line for Saturday Hall H (plus a few hours waiting for wristbands & a few hours Sat. morning waiting to get in) so I can't complain, really.  I scored well with panel swag, and I didn't go over-budget on stuff!  Plus, I kind of unexpectedly got one of my "Infinity Gauntlet" comics signed by artist Ron Lim to go with my Jim Starlin signature I got at SDCC SE (of course, I MUCH rather would've liked to have gotten one of the first couple issues signed by artist George Perez, which would've meant he was still alive, but...you know... :( ).

One reflection this year, is that I WAS WRONG; I was told explicitly by CCI there was no special Pro Entrance into the Exhibit Hall only to see with my own eyes that there was!  I had several Pros convincing us they had indeed used the Pro entrance, explained explicitly where it was, but I chose to believe CCI's information.  That was absolutely wrong!  I of course didn't see that entrance/sign until Thursday late morning/early afternoon when it didn't matter much, but I look forward to utilizing that entrance in 2023.

 

Where is the Pro Entrance into the Exhibit Hall. I'm a pro and I've never heard of this.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: hikanteki on July 27, 2022, 01:37:07 AM
I'm back home, unpacking while listening to the Shangi-Chi soundtrack (SDCC exclusive color edition, purchased at Mondo booth. :) )

I had a great time at this year's SDCC. I still have to think about whether it's up there with one of my top tier years (2012/2018) or one notch behind, but I really enjoyed myself. I had a little bit of trepidation at first because the panel schedule did seem a lot lighter than usual with some very glaring omissions (CW/WB) and no Preview Night screenings, I wasn't thrilled about the lack of the Souvenir Book, the lack of carpet in the exhibit hall was concerning, and while most conventions are doing away with the hassle of vaccine checks, CCI not only holds onto them but decides to put additional resources into them (i.e. clear app) this late in the game.

But, none of those turned out to be dealbreakers. There were still enough great panels to fill up my schedule, the Rocketeer design that should have been on the Souvenir Book made it to the back of the quick guide, my feet didn't hurt from walking the exhibit hall, and getting the wristband didn't take too long, although being stuck with a wristband for 5 days--let alone a paper one--was problematic. (I realize I could have gotten new ones, but having to replace it every day is also problematic.)

But the main reason I enjoyed myself so much was how relaxed it was. (That was also one of the reasons why 2018 was my favorite year.) The vast majority of panels were walk-ins or close to it, even many that normally aren't. With the obvious exception of Hall H on Saturday, there was next to no camping out which made for a far less sleep-deprived and less aggro crowd.

But I did get caught in one complete fail this year, and that was the Ozzy signing on Friday. I won the lottery and got in line at 7:30 to get the wristband, which was barely moving. Then they separated out the "non-Ozzy people" and there were still a ton of people left for Ozzy. It took over an hour to get the wristband, and seeing how many people were there, I didn't see how they'd get through that anywhere near that many people in two one-hour signing sessions. I was right. My signing session was at 12. I skipped out of Indigo at 11:45 and got there at 12 and the line was capped. Nothing that requires winning a drawing that you have to pick up a wristband for in the morning should ever be capped. But not only was it capped, there were at least three huge overflow lines, and no one knew which one was official until they arbitrarily designated one of them as the official one at around 12:30 and then told people from the other ones to go to the back of that one. By that point, I hadn't noticed any movement in the official line, so I guessed it would be at least a few hours, and that's if I even were to get in. By that point I figured that I probably wouldn't make it back to Indigo Ballroom if I stayed, so I just cut my losses and went back to Indigo.

But aside from that, the convention was great. There may have been fewer big name exclusives, but the Exhibit Hall was very manageable every day (even Saturday) and I got nearly everything that I was interested in. Some highlights: the hand-cast Ultramayan (an Ultraman spinoff) from DKE Toys, both the 100% Soft Dumpster Fire exclusives, 1953-style Snoopy figure from Peanuts, Shang-Chi vinyl from Mondo, Space Usagi foil cover (signed by Stan Sakai) and Chibi Usagi Yojimbo plush, and handmade "Avocadog" plush from Furry Feline Creatives. Also I walked up to Hallmark at the end of the day and picked up the Spider Gwen ornament which was pretty cool (and reminiscent of 2018 when I was able to get the Iron Giant from Ready Player One ornament at the very end with zero line.)

The panels did not disappoint. Even though there were much fewer hard choices, nearly everything I saw was top-notch. The new animated shows Koala Man and Little Demon were hilarious. Genndy T talking about Primal was great and so was the Gremlins prequel. It was nice to see an actual DC Animated Movie this time, Green Lantern: Beware My Power. And I thought panel swag was just as good this year as any year. Got T-shirts from Little Demon and Archer. And, of course, the Funko panel (which I walked right into at 2:45) had the greatest swag ever.

During CCSE, it didn't sound like the studios would come but I had hoped that they'd have screenings without panels. They didn't. But during SDCC 2022, they actually had a lot of these. While I'd prefer a screening with panel, if a studio doesn't want to send its people there for any reason then it seems like a no brainer to at least give us a screening. We got these with Bob's Burgers, Family Guy, and the Lightyear movie. It still is fun to see things before everyone else does (at least for the former two.)

I attended a couple of offsite evening events this year. Stone w00t X was alright (great beer and I enjoyed talking to the brewers, although I found the attendees to be a bit cliquish and I really was annoyed that Stone ran out of all the meat empanadas by 8:20 when the event was supposed to be until 11...and I also just realized that they gave us glasses that were dated 2019). But, I also went to the Crunchyroll-sponsored Dragon Ball Z Experience with the San Diego Symphony at the Rady Shell, and that was truly epic. That had to be my favorite off-site event at any SDCC, ever, period. The orchestra sounded flawless, they brought in a Japanese singer for some of the songs, and then all of that against a beautiful venue with views of the harbor on all sides made for an evening I won't ever forget.

Before the convention I was questioning if it would feel like an actual SDCC with the restrictions and reduced content, but by the time I walked out the door on Sunday evening there was absolutely zero doubt that the SDCC we know and love is back.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: CHEYS671Guam on July 27, 2022, 09:53:32 AM
I had a great Comic-con but I underestimated how tired I would be once it was over. LOL! I had to cancel my trip to Denver so that I can take the time to recover, especially with sleep.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: ALF on July 27, 2022, 10:09:57 AM
Two things determined how my con went this year.
1. Covid
2. Lack of Exclusives Lego Minifig


For the last ten years I always had most of my days chew up lining up for mini figs. This year end up sleeping in and going to Sea World instead. After a decade of dedicating to lego exclusive, was shell shock on what to do with day. Still end up randomly waiting in line for a TNMT autograph and signing up for the Severance off site.

As for the Covid thing, I decided to stay away from most parties and panels and offsite. I for one am glad CCI was adamant about the mask and vaccine policy. Looking at the Got Covid thread on this forum, I think majority probably agrees.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: angi on July 27, 2022, 10:20:55 AM
Less people,shorter lines, they took the busses out of the front area to make that huge walkway which was awesome. I had a great time.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: VeggieKitten on July 27, 2022, 12:21:38 PM
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I won a few limited signings for Disney animation shows, usually done in person to meet staff and talent. But this year, all posters were pre-signed and just given to you at the signing times. Some panels did have their talent there, it was the in-person part Disney must have we forbid.
Oh, which Disney shows were they?
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: jacmaryang on July 27, 2022, 01:31:29 PM
I had a great time this year! It was so nice to be back! I met some more FoCC members in person this year which was super nice. :) Had my first Fundays experience which was really great. The people I sat with were AWESOME!

I saw the panels I wanted to see. I mostly bought what I wanted to buy (maybe a bit too much). I did miss the carpet, LEGO exclusives, and WB/DC on the floor. But overall I had a blast and am so thankful that I got to see my con friends after 3 years. :)

As a note about the Ozzy signing, my husband won the 1:10pm signing and had a similar experience as hikanteki. Took about an hour to get a wristband in sails in the morning. Went to the floor around 12:35pm and the line for Ozzy was capped (which was surprising). Line was barely moving and it looked like it would take hours. He decided to skip it around 1:10pm and we walked around the floor instead. Around 1:40pm or so we decided to go back and check out the line. The line was no longer capped and it was moving much faster. My husband finished around 2:10pm. They were really rushing people toward the end. Ozzy was head's down, signing, and not looking at people so he could sign as quickly as possibly.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on July 27, 2022, 04:51:36 PM
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Less people,shorter lines, they took the busses out of the front area to make that huge walkway which was awesome. I had a great time.
Yeah, I couldn't remember if that was new in 2022 or from a previous year after shutting down Harbor, but that was GREAT!  Helped general claustrophobic crowds thing a bit: even more so in a pandemic.  REALLY great logistics there, IMO!!
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: rallyv on July 27, 2022, 04:56:04 PM
They shut down harbor in 2018 and 2019 iirc but I think this is the first year they moved the shuttle location which made everything much better and easier to keep distance from people. I hope they keep this because it was a really good change. I also think it helps the shuttle drivers since there's less people traffic they have to fight as well as the traffic officers since they don't have to keep yelling for people to get out of the dropoff road.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on July 27, 2022, 04:56:33 PM
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Where is the Pro Entrance into the Exhibit Hall. I'm a pro and I've never heard of this.

From the "Pro Registration" thread, that others have said:
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Anyway, go through the Sails Pavilion as if you're heading toward 6BCF or one of those conference rooms. Once you exit the Sails Pavilion, take a left and go one flight down the escalator. Once you reach the landing, you should see signs. The hallway they line us up in is right around the corner.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Vapors on July 28, 2022, 12:21:45 PM
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Oh, which Disney shows were they?

For me it was the Ghost and Molly McGee and Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur. They also had Prouder Family but I didn’t go for that signing.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Cut That Meat on July 30, 2022, 09:09:40 AM
Now that I've sleptwalk through a week of being back at work and have reached the weekend, I can finally put my scattered thoughts down on paper.

As I mentioned in the pre-SDCC expectations thread, I was just glad to have it back in my life: the sensory overloads, extreme overplanning, the abuse on my feet, having to make split-second decisions on the fly, all of it. It felt so, so good to be back in this environment after three years. Overall, I had a great time and don't have any major complaints. I acknowledge major issues DID exist this year, but most did not personally impact me or are things I sort of expect at this point, i.e., I normally don't make time to do Adult Swim on the Green or NDLs, and I deal with line-cutting by not being in situations where it's a huge issue.

After writing all the below, I still feel like I left something off! While I listed about the same number of thoughts for both pros and cons, don't get me wrong: my pros were all major wins and the cons were mostly minor quibbles. I cannot wait to be back in 2023.

The Pros
- The FoCC Discord. I never thought I'd spend more time on another app than Twitter during SDCC. Lo and behold, the Discord. It was around in 2019 - was that the first year? - but it leveled up in a big way in 2022. Unbelievable source of real-time information without having to sort through unrelated Twitter nonsense, entertainment, and a total game-changer this year.

- Related, getting to meet so many FoCCers (I said it) for the first time. What a wonderful community.

- Reuniting with old Con friends was also just an absolute delight. Total "we're back" energy.

- I understand this one is absolutely "right place, right time" and purely luck-based, but being one of probably a handful of people who did both Fandom AND Fundays. Both are SDCC 'bucket list' events for me (and I'm sure many others), so both in a 24-hour span really meant the rest of the weekend was a bonus. It was really hard to get too worked up about anything negative after that.

- Having the option to complete tasks early in the week was awesome and I hope CCI keeps that trend going. On Monday, I donated blood at a Donor Center and got a certificate to redeem for goodies at the Blood Drive, and got my COVID wristband (which held up!). On Tuesday, I picked up my bag, books, and lanyard, and also picked up my Patrick Ballesteros commission at his pop-up (okay, this had nothing to do with CCI, but still). With time being such a valuable currency, anything I can do before the event to free up more time once the event starts is totally worth it. I am totally willing to trade 30 minutes on a Monday if it means not having to take 15 minutes on a Thursday to complete the same task.

- While not perfect, I was really impressed with the overall level of masking compliance. On a percentage basis, anecdotally, booth workers seemed to comply a lot less than attendees.

- Definitely easier for me to navigate the aisles in the exhibit hall, both in terms of how long it would take me on average to cover an aisle to not bumping into shoulders and bags quite as often. I was pleasantly surprised I covered 3/4 of the Exhibit Hall in ~half a day on Thursday.

- Loved how most non-Saturday Hall H panels were pretty straightforward to get into. I got to see more panels than I normally would. I get restless real quick - I need to always be on the move! - so I tend not to do panels where I have to sit through multiple panels to get to the one I want.

- Got most of the exclusives I wanted. Granted, I was mostly focused on ones that didn't require an early timeslot or generally were less in-demand.

- Offsites with reservations. Kudos Severance, Dungeons & Dragons Tavern, FX, and IMDboat.

- Offsites with evening hours after the exhibit hall closes. I think Severance, 10 Forward, and FX had evening hours on at least one night.

- I thought the offsite scene was pretty strong. I got to do Severance, D&D, FX, IMDboat, Disney Bundleworks, and Abbott Elementary.

- After some concerns up until we were about ~two weeks out, the after-party scene was also strong. Even Saturday, which I normally find the weakest, had the Limitless lounge, DBZ concert, and the Prey party. As an aside: I came late to the Prey party when they were "only" down to oysters, but kudos to Hulu for splurging on a huge seafood spread and open bar at Lou & Mickey's.

The Cons
- While I didn't notice the lack of carpet in the moment, I definitely did when I would take a break or at the end of the day when all of the pain I didn't feel in the moment as I walked accumulated at once.

- Panels were easier to get into, not only because of fewer attendees, but because of fewer must-sees and last-minute changes (The Rookie not announcing they were virtual, Bob's Burgers cancelling at the last minute, no Arrowverse block, etc.). I missed the SyFy Great Debate!

- Dungeons and Dragons not having the announced poster/print giveaways at both their panel and the tavern.

- Hall H chute loading procedures on Sunday without having a large number of people pre-filled into the chutes before the first panel like on Thursday-Saturday. Woof.
 
- Eventeny. Give me all the crappy paper wristbands you want, just give me back MySched.

- The Exclusives lottery awarding attendees more than one slot for the same booth. I know some are more popular than others, so if someone ended up with a UCC and a Funko and a Mondo, fine. But people really shouldn't be winning 2+ slots to the same booth. Just my opinion, though.

- The half-assed official merchandise selection.

- Lack of physical souvenir book. I hope the free physical one comes back next year, but if not, I hope they consider having it as a paid option in their official merch selection ($10?). Love having them on my shelves.

- Noticeable reduced buzz on the floor without WB/DC, a huge reduction in cast signings (did the Hulu/fka Fox Fanfare booth even have any?), and companies either staying away or doing the bare minimum (looking at you, LEGO). I hope most of this is rectified in 2023 and that it was primarily a "wait-and-see" thing and not a sign of permanent things to come.

- Whatever that Netflix booth digital queuing system was.

- Offsites without reservations. Looking at you, Hot D and Abbott Elementary.

- Offsites not opening early on Wednesday or staying open past the exhibit hall closing.

- The Children's Park being under construction was an eyesore and took a nice spot off the board, even just to walk past the water. I also feel it really killed Krapopolis outside the Children's Museum, with the construction serving to isolate it and make it more out of the way. Hope it's done in time for 2023.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Berts on July 30, 2022, 04:04:47 PM
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The Pros
- The FoCC Discord. I never thought I'd spend more time on another app than Twitter during SDCC. Lo and behold, the Discord. It was around in 2019 - was that the first year? - but it leveled up in a big way in 2022. Unbelievable source of real-time information without having to sort through unrelated Twitter nonsense, entertainment, and a total game-changer this year.

- Related, getting to meet so many FoCCers (I said it) for the first time. What a wonderful community.

- Reuniting with old Con friends was also just an absolute delight. Total "we're back" energy.

I can't echo this sentiment enough. You hit the nail right on the head. I used to be GLUED to Twitter for almost all of June and July. This year, I barely checked Twitter and instead filled all that time with Discord which was actually very rewarding, fun, and productive. And then getting to meet so many of the members (including you, Cut That Meat) was fantastic. I really really enjoyed what the FoCC Discord evolved into and what it is currently. This community is so great.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on July 30, 2022, 04:12:09 PM
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Here is my review of the con.

https://www.friendsofcc.com/2022/07/26/sdcc-2022-a-cons-rebirth/

In short, I had a terrific time! There were some things missing, but still more than enough to fill my time and cause me to make hard choices. I did not meet anyone who felt like they had been able to do everything that they wanted. And ultimately, that's what we want, right? A con so filled with options that we have choices. CCSE and WonderCon were severely lacking in that department. SDCC was so much closer to 'normal'.

I was also at the “Rookie” panel in Ballroom 20 and I too was floored the cast only appeared virtually.  Many attendees stormed out.  I also noticed fewer people in Exhibit Hall and far fewer vendors there, making it look almost like the Exhibit Hall at WonderCon.  I was glad to get into Hall H on Saturday.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Dianekde on July 30, 2022, 09:05:43 PM
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  I also noticed fewer people in Exhibit Hall and far fewer vendors there, making it look almost like the Exhibit Hall at WonderCon.  I was glad to get into Hall H on Saturday.

It is my sincere wish that the exhibit hall stay the way it was at this con. I had a couple of non-major booths that I wanted to visit and I was able to navigate so easily from one end to the other.

It will probably go back to what it was, but I purchased a lot more this year because I didn’t get the immediate urge to leave.  It didn’t SEEM like fewer vendors to me because I could actually experience the vendors that were there.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: alyssa on July 31, 2022, 08:11:41 AM
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It is my sincere wish that the exhibit hall stay the way it was at this con. I had a couple of non-major booths that I wanted to visit and I was able to navigate so easily from one end to the other.

It will probably go back to what it was, but I purchased a lot more this year because I didn’t get the immediate urge to leave.  It didn’t SEEM like fewer vendors to me because I could actually experience the vendors that were there.

I actually liked the hall this year. It felt refreshed.
There were new booths that I really enjoyed. I suspect they wouldn't have been there if all the old booths had returned.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Old Man Grey on July 31, 2022, 08:30:50 AM
Well, I hope DC, Dark Horse, Two Morrows, Torpedo Comics and some others are back next year. I really missed their presence.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: marcia29 on July 31, 2022, 11:10:57 AM
Reflections on SDCC 2022

I had an incredibly wonderful time at SDCC this 'return of the con' year.

I was able to produce a fan panel again after more than a couple of years away from that opportunity.

Was able to walk into Hall H and see William Shatner, Keanu Reeves and Kevin Smith.

Stayed at my fave hotel. Not in the Gaslamp, but it is a quieter place to relax and get ready for the next busy day.

Roamed the Exhibit Hall, and saw some amazing things.

Shared some of my new 'Geeks in Heaven' homemade buttons, in honor of my absolutely nerdily wonderful son who passed away just before the last planned SDCC in 2020.  The anniversary of his passing was on July 23.  An SDCC miracle happened that day.

My most favorite personal encounter from this year:

I visited the Transformers booth, where they had a cool Bumblebee car displayed and asked one of the young ladies at the booth if she could take a picture for me as my son loved the Transformers.  She happily obliged. 

When she was done, I handed her one of the Geeks in Heaven buttons, and told her of my son's passing and how cool he would think this was.  My voice started to crack as tears came.  We would go to each Transformers movie together. 

Today was the anniversary of his passing. 

She asked if she could hug me...and I said of course.  We hugged and I turned and moved away slowly, as I could barely see through my tears.  I admit I was a tiny bit embarrassed. 

Then I felt a tap on my shoulder. 

It was the young woman from the Transformers booth.  She asked me if I liked the Transformers too, and if something Transformers would mean something to me.  I nodded, yes.  She said, "Stay right here".  Off she went. 

The crowd swirled around me. 

She returned.  "Here", she said.  "This is an Optimus Prime signed by Peter Cullen...the voice of Optimus Prime.  I know he would want you to have it."   

She handed the figure to me. More tears streamed down my face. 

"Oh yes.  I know who Peter Cullen is", I barely squeaked out.  I sobbed out loud.

"Please don't cry", she said to me. She gently hugged me again.

"You are so kind to do this for me.  Thank you." I was crying because...of her kindness, in taking me into her heart and connecting with me.  I had to find a place to spend some time and reflect in gratitude.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: chachime45 on July 31, 2022, 02:19:26 PM
Awesome :)
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Vapors on August 02, 2022, 11:01:06 PM
I'm back home now and slowly (emphasis on slowly) unpacking and collecting my thoughts. I had a great time coming back. I thought Comic Con 2019 was one of my personal favorites so any Comic Con after that going to be hard to top that. But I was just so glad to be back after 3 years. Here are my highlights and boos from this year's show. Let's do Boos first to get that out of the way.

Boos:

- They probably should have increased the number of Covid check stations or loaded up with workers on the first two days of the con. I remember seeing the line stretch from Fifth, go all the way down to Park (the street that leads to the Hilton Bayfront) and then snake back again. All out in the sun. I heard the line went by pretty quickly, but still, more stations and/or more workers at the beginning would have probably helped.

- That Hulu booth. 3 years and the best you guys could is have a grey booth with nothing to distinguish it? No art, no branding on the walls, nothing, just plain metallic grey. If you took that sign away from them, you would not even know what that booth stood for. Plus their giveaways were a bit lackluster. Other than the large poster tube, was there anything worth visiting this booth for?

- Lot of missing comics booths. I know there's a lot of "Out with the old, in with the new" feelings when news broke that a number of big comics companies would sit this out and allow newer, smaller publishers to enter, but I still feel this was an overall net loss for the lifeblood of the show floor at Comic Con. While I was not a fan of DC's new booth when it merged with WB, it still represented a big comics mainstay and brought over a ton of comic talent for signings and other giveaways. Dark Horse always had a well organized and neatly laid out booth year in and year out, also highlighted by a great roster of signings and giveaways. Add in Drawn and Quarterly and Oni Press/Lion Forge and there seemed to be a little bit less energy on the comics side of things. I do know that there were fewer artists on the floor and the booths that did signings seemed to have fewer overall than in years' past.

- Less Swag overall. Far be it from me, a person who will gladly take a used toothpick if offered by a booth as a freebie, to complain about less things to lug around, but it did feel to me that swag was less overall than in years past. Normally, there's a lot of posters, buttons, key chains, those kind of things being passed around. But it felt like there was less of that. There was still some cool free things being given out for sure, but sometimes you had to work for it (like Yesterday's coins, Neflix booths prize machine or Paramount+ Stamp hunt). Again, I can't really complain as I don't need to lug things around, but it did feel like booths were cutting back and swag was one area to cut costs.

- Limited Signings from Disney Animation. I get it, with Covid around (and this strain being more contagious) the company doesn't want its crew and talent to miss any time recovering. Still, it was a bit of a disappointment when I would go do the Limited Signings and show up and just be handed a pre-signed poster. Kinda feels empty when you can't meet anyone. Still a cool thing to get, but for me, the big memory is getting the chance to meet folks.

- This was seen a few times, but I have to say boo to parents who leave their small children in lines to hold a spot and then just disappear for several minutes. Far be it from me, a single guy with no kids, to dictate how parents raise their kids, but I feel it is a bit appalling to leave your incredibly small children (I would be surprised if any of them were older than 6) in a line so you can go wander off to get some freebie or check some other booth. Just ask your neighbors to hold your spot in line and bring the kids along. I'm sure you won't stress out your kids if you take them along as well. I saw this happen three times and I couldn't help be a little frustrated watching this happen each time.

- Cut costs at Comic Con. Given the less than full feeling at the con, I'm not surprised the con elected to try to save some money. Just feels like there was a lot of cutting of corners here and there. Whether it was the missing carpet in the exhibit floor (noticed by my feet) or things like nor childcare/kiddiecare (not something I need, but I'm sure some folks appreciated the service being available). Other notable things missing: no physical Souvenir book this year, no physical daily newsletter and no water coolers in any of the conference/panel rooms. I hope with next year, whether some of the choices were due to Covid or costs, we can get some of these amenities back.

Now let's get to the Highlights:

- First, it was great to meet or catch up with a lot of you from the forums. Whether it was waiting in line, the pre-con meetups or the discord, putting names to faces was my one big highlight this year. Big shoutout to Car Low, who somehow knows things before event organizers can event post them. I was able to get into a party thanks to him. Also big shoutout to my Friday line crew. I could only laugh when after meeting all of you, we realized NONE of us needed to be lined up that early for anything on the floor or panels and we had just been doing it out of duty to help our fellow board member. Good times!

- I know they started doing this in 2019, but being able to donate blood ahead of the convention is a game changer. No longer do I need to worry about pacing myself for the whole day Thursday. Now I can donate Wed and get plenty of rest for the weekend ahead. If I lived in SD, I would have taken the SD blood banks offer to donate even earlier, which residents can several days in advance. That's great. I really do dig the Thor shirt they gave out.

- Dragonball Z offsite behind the Marriott. I love it when an offsite is open on Preview Night. Once again, I was without a PN badge, but since this was open I decided to check it out. A couple of my friends joined me and we took some fun photos, got a cool large bag, checked out the cool toys and got my butt handed to me by my friend on the video games. Definitely something cool to do while most everyone was inside for PN. I was especially heartened when a bunch of kids with their parents were wondering what was going on. They recognized Goku and wanted to go in. Their parents weren't sure if this was free or if they needed to pay. The booth workers, seeing the kids, waved them in and gave them super Saiyan paper crowns. The kids were ecstatic and run straight into the offsite, with the parents chasing after them.  ;D

- Took one last meal at the Tin Fish. Not sure what is going to be put there next year, but for the last meal I'll ever have from them, the Mixed Fish and Chips was, and always will be, one of my con food highlights.

- Paper Girls Con. Thanks to Amazon, they seemed to REALLY push Paper Girls. I love the comic and it was really cool to see Brian K Vaughn and Cliff Chiang get a lot of love. Comic Con is made for things like this where a comic getting adapted should be front and center. Lots of cool pins, posters, the mini poster tube (which I think is a swag highlight for me due to its utility during the con), the replica canvas bag and of course, cast and crew meetups and the first episodes being shown at the Manchester. I was sad I had to decide between that or the Walking Dead party, but while I do miss that I could have watched the episodes earlier. Doing the watch party later with some of you was cool. Seems all that promotion at the con paid off. Got a ton of stuff signed by the creators and the cast, so this was definitely a highlight.

- DnD Tavern. This was totally a fun and well organized immersive experience. I am sad I couldn't time this with friends as this was something made for groups. But going by myself, I still got to talk to a few folks in the booths. The drinks were pretty decent (no complaints since it was free) and the big highlight with the Dragon flying overhead was incredible. They really planned this one out. I'm not like a lot of you thieves out there, so I wasn't willing to try to sneak some mug under my shirt. I swear, some of you will take anything that isn't nailed down to the floor or wall. Ha! Also kudos to the person who handled the lines. I went during my appointed time and made it in and out within 30 minutes, pretty impressive I have to say from an organization stand point.

- Walking Dead Party. I was totally surprised I was able to grab a ticket (shout out to Car Low!). So I decided this was my Friday night party to go to, and it did not disappoint. Even though I stopped watching after the first few seasons, I still kinda kept up based on summaries and watching clips. You saw a ton of props from the show, they decorated the heck out of the outdoor area with tons of cool photo opps and there were a lot of cool people to talk to and chat about the show. I even got a selfie from Daryl (Norman Reedus) and Judith Grimes (Cailey Fleming). Norman was really cool. He did a long loop in the courtyard just chatting with fans, taking selfies and autographing anything in front of him. He was totally cool about everything. Plus got to meet the special effects guy responsible for the shows fantastic walkers, Greg Nicotero. Food was delicious and so were the drinks.

- IGN party. A friend I was with knew a few people and was able to get us VIP into IGN after the Walking Dead panel. There was no real benefit from getting VIP as far as I could tell. Open bar for everyone and photo booth stops for me and my friends. But I like to think it was cool nonetheless.

- Easy to walk in panels. Only panels that seemed to draw crowds was Marvel anything. Missed out on getting into the Marvel Animation panel in Ballroom 20 on Friday, but I did make it into the panel afterwards for Paper Girls. But a lot of panels that would have in the past required a little advanced lining up, mostly were walk ins. I got my taste of Quick Draw/Cartoon Voices on Sat and just otherwise, seemed pretty easy to get into most panels as long as a little planning was done ahead of time to avoid big lines.

- Easy to walk floor. I remember talking to a guy (and I preface this is a random I met, so grain of salt and all that), who had said he had heard from a few folks connected to SDCC that they were expecting crowds 15-20% less than normal. If you had asked me before the con what I thought the crowd would be, I would have assumed less than 5% compared to prior years. I just seemed that most of us kept our tickets and had them rolled over. But in seeing the crowds, I can now believe that 15-20% range, which I would have thought nuts. Saturday, in the middle of the day, the show floor was pretty easy to walk from one end to the other. While there were always going to be choke points or booths attracting large crowds, I don't recall being shoulder to shoulder with anyone at all during the whole time. This is normally something I experience multiple times every con, so for the first time in a long time, I didn't feel like a sardine. That was nice. I do wonder how much of that was folks who elected to not come due to Covid and how much was SDCC deciding to hold back tickets to encourage less people showing up? I guess we'll never know.

- The Nat Geo party. Glad I ditched waiting in line for HBO and rushing to this party I totally forgot about. I was able to get the last of the scraps of food (which was fine by me as I was going to eat anything by that point). But open bar was a great way to fill up too. Ha! It was also here that I met a bunch of folks here too and I was glad to do so. It was cool talking to you all.

- Got great commissioned pieces from Mirka Andolfo (Sweet Paprika) and James Silvani (Darkwing Duck). And got a nice quickie sketch from Cliff Chiang (Paper Girls) and a couple of other artists. Always cool to get personal art.

- Dragonball Z concert at the Rady Shell. I missed the first part, but once I got in, I was totally reliving my high school and college years when I would rush home after classes to catch the latest episodes of DBZ. The shell would light up to to match certain scenes as well. Hearing the songs being accompanied with videos of all the epic fights and milestones (Super Saiyan Goku!) from the show had me so giddy. Plus having a singer come out to sing several opening and closing and insert songs was so cool. The orchestra sounded incredible as well. It was like watching television live! The fireworks being shot at the end was a great night capper for the con. I hope they bring back another franchise to do a concert here. I totally recommend folks check a concert out here.

- Mask compliance. I was incredibly surprised how it seemed everyone I saw followed the rules. The guards and workers I saw also seemed to enforce this pretty strictly as well. I know folks in other areas reported seeing less than complete compliance in some rooms or in certain sections of the show floor, but where I could see and what I experienced, the mask compliance was incredibly high. So that's good.

Misc Thoughts for this year:

- I really can't stress how happy I was to be back. To be in the hustle and bustle of the Comic Con crowd. I've been to concerts, I went to Coachella earlier this year, but this is something that means a lot to me. Unlike any other comic or anime convention I go to, San Diego, above all else, really embraces this convention and I feel like for those 5 days in July, this is OUR city. I can't really recall any other con that allows itself to be taken over like this.

-After a week of testing, I didn't catch Covid when I headed back home earlier this weekend. At this point, if I test positive, I assume it was due to catching it elsewhere. I have no secret techniques other than maybe I had immunity due to catching Covid at Coachella. I just masked all the time as much as I could while at the con. The masking would lapse at the various parties when eating/drinking and chatting with friends but that was likely a lot of folks too. My mom (whom I was staying with) also tested negative when I left, so I am relieved I didn't pass anything on to her. Again, I was pleased that most everyone I saw obliged with the Covid rules and I am glad the convention stuck to their guns rather than be wishy-washy with their Covid policies. We can't predict what will happen next year, but whatever Covid policies the con elects to make, I hope they once again make clear ahead of time what they want and stick to it.

- One thing I would like to predict for the future of the con, is that I think what we experienced this year will be the norm for the foreseeable future. I think this is going to be a transitional period for Comic Con for the next few years. You could even argue that the transition started back in 2019 when a few studios didn't bother to show. Its funny. When I started attending the convention back in 1999, there were older convention goers complaining that Hollywood was slowly taking over the convention and that this was more "Pop Culture Con" than "Comic Con." For basically a full decade, I would overhear these comments while in line or just walking around the convention. They mostly stopped by the 2010s as most of those goers likely did stop coming. Funny enough, a full decade later, it looks like their wish for less Hollywood will come true. Whether you think we are overacting to Covid and we should live with it or if you believe that this is a serious health crisis still, the TV and movie studios will likely use this time to reassess their expenses coming here and cut costs as they see fit. We already see that with WB/Discovery and when I think back to all the studios and channels that came to the con promoting their shows (CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, Starz, Cinemax, Showtime, AMC, USA, MTV, Cartoon Network, Syfy, tbs, TNT, etc) only a few of them still send anything and it was really limited to maybe a show or two at most. Add to it, the studios seemed to cut costs by limiting their talent coming, less opportunities to meet for autographs and less swag overall, I think we will see a more leaner Comic Con both on the show floor and in the panel rooms. Add in increasing inflation, worker hiring and supply chain issues, and more bottom line oriented companies, we could very well see a pull back that made the 2010s Comic Cons really fun for a lot of us. I'm sure I'll find something to fill those voids, but I wonder how much others will do the same. I know quite a number come here due to all the TV shows and movies so if there is less, will some of these folks still come? And while I am not as invested in collectibles, I do know that a lot of the exclusives being promoted (or no exclusives for some companies) really put a damper on things to some folks. Again, I'll probably adjust my expectations and find new things that will peak my interest, but I do wonder what this will do for Comic Con for the future.

- Finally, this convention marks the first convention without former President John Rogers handprints on them. While he did pass in late 2018, he likely did a little pre-planning for Comic Con 2019, along with the inertia that his procedures and policies likely followed even with his passing. For all intents and purposes, this Comic Con falls to new President Robin Donlan. And I will be curious how the convention runs in the future. I know talking to some of you who go to other cons, have remarked that this convention really knows how to handle things for a convention of this size really well. But I did hear a few complaints about things like how Hall H lines were handled, how the online lottery played out. and everything that happened with merch seems to scream rush job. Covid I know can be explained for some of the delays and issues, but ultimately, by next year, we will be in year 4 of the pandemic, so the con needs to learn how to deal with a lot of the issues that plagued this year. Here's hoping for smoother sailings in the future, but it does bear watching as well. I don't think it can be stressed enough how much having an experienced hand like Rogers led to the growth that is the Comic Con we all know and love.

Again, this was a fun and memorable Comic Con for me. Lots of things accomplished, awesome sketches and swag received, fun panels seen, great meetings with cool folks both from this forum and the general Comic Con goer. I hope any issues I had or that others had will be ironed out next year. Hope to see you all next year. And thank you for reading my too long fourm post.

EDIT: Oh yea, one more thing for this already long post. I think we should see pretty big increases for ticket prices for next year. Going from Coachella, they increased prices anywhere from 11% to up to 47% on some tickets and packages. Given inflation for this year, and the fact that Comic Con never did any new sales (save for the auctions), I would almost expect Comic Con prices to go up. A Four Day with PN ticket cost about $311 for this year. I would expect the price to go to around $350 to as high as $375. But we shall see.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on August 03, 2022, 09:30:22 AM
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Reflections on SDCC 2022

I had an incredibly wonderful time at SDCC this 'return of the con' year.

I was able to produce a fan panel again after more than a couple of years away from that opportunity.

Was able to walk into Hall H and see William Shatner, Keanu Reeves and Kevin Smith.

Stayed at my fave hotel. Not in the Gaslamp, but it is a quieter place to relax and get ready for the next busy day.

Roamed the Exhibit Hall, and saw some amazing things.

Shared some of my new 'Geeks in Heaven' homemade buttons, in honor of my absolutely nerdily wonderful son who passed away just before the last planned SDCC in 2020.  The anniversary of his passing was on July 23.  An SDCC miracle happened that day.

My most favorite personal encounter from this year:

I visited the Transformers booth, where they had a cool Bumblebee car displayed and asked one of the young ladies at the booth if she could take a picture for me as my son loved the Transformers.  She happily obliged. 

When she was done, I handed her one of the Geeks in Heaven buttons, and told her of my son's passing and how cool he would think this was.  My voice started to crack as tears came.  We would go to each Transformers movie together. 

Today was the anniversary of his passing. 

She asked if she could hug me...and I said of course.  We hugged and I turned and moved away slowly, as I could barely see through my tears.  I admit I was a tiny bit embarrassed. 

Then I felt a tap on my shoulder. 

It was the young woman from the Transformers booth.  She asked me if I liked the Transformers too, and if something Transformers would mean something to me.  I nodded, yes.  She said, "Stay right here".  Off she went. 

The crowd swirled around me. 

She returned.  "Here", she said.  "This is an Optimus Prime signed by Peter Cullen...the voice of Optimus Prime.  I know he would want you to have it."   

She handed the figure to me. More tears streamed down my face. 

"Oh yes.  I know who Peter Cullen is", I barely squeaked out.  I sobbed out loud.

"Please don't cry", she said to me. She gently hugged me again.

"You are so kind to do this for me.  Thank you." I was crying because...of her kindness, in taking me into her heart and connecting with me.  I had to find a place to spend some time and reflect in gratitude.
This is a great story, thanks for sharing: it's always awesome to hear about people with empathy and compassion being good people in a less-than-ideal environment!
I've always had great experiences with that Hasbro booth over the years, and I'm glad that 2022 was not exception; whomever hires their booth reps apparently does a good job finding nice people!!
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: sessionka on August 14, 2022, 02:17:22 PM
I don't know how I missed this post, but...

I had a great time.  Once I recovered from my flight into San Diego (landed 3:30 AM Tues after 6 hour delay), I took a walk to The Broken Yolk to get a late breakfast.  As soon as I walked out of my hotel (MMM), the trolley went by.  The sound of the bell made me so happy.   :)

I made most of the panels I wanted, but miscalculated on the presentation of the James Webb Telescope.  Since the crowds were lighter, I thought it would be a walk in.  I was wrong (bummer).
I did enjoy the other panels I attended.  'The Trial' by the Legal Geeks was a lot of fun.  The 'mother' of the boy 'killed' by the shark in Jaws was suing the town and the mayor.  Initially you think she would 'win' with no problem.  Turns out after the 'trial', I had to rule in favor of the town.  I wasn't the only one, and that's how the judge 'ruled'.  I love their panels.  They make them both fun AND educational.  I also attended 'The Ghosts' panel.  That was fun.  I had thought about Nathan Fillion's panel, but it conflicted with something else I wanted to do.  So glad I passed.

I only hit the exhibit floor once.  I really wasn't looking for much, but I did decide I wanted a back pack from Loungefly (score).  I love it.  My thing is T-shirts, so I was a little disappointed there weren't as many vendors as I'm used to.  I like the quirky ones.  I did see a T-Shirt on another attendee that I thought was hysterical.  I ordered it on-line.

I attended the Masquerade for the first time.  It was going to be on my list for 2020.  Enjoyed it, even though one of the performers fell off the stage (ouch).

I ran into a YouTube 'celebrity that I subscribe to in the Gaslamp.  It was RDCWorld1.  I was thinking maybe they were there doing a panel, but they were just attendees.  That was a nice surprise.

I was introduced to a 'new' place for breakfast and enjoyed it with some new friends, and discovered another one on the last day.  I did take some down time (I'm a senior  :). ).  I sat by the pool for a while and read my book.  Loved it.

Overall, I was SO glad to be back!!!  I am glad I planned to fly in early.  That's definitely going to be my plan going forward.

My only real negative was the Merch line.  It was super slow.  I even said something to the people that checked me out (when I finally got up to the front).  Apparently, it made no difference.

I took a red-eye back to the East coast on Sunday.  After getting in early Monday morning, while I did take the day off, I had a very small task to perform for my job in the morning.  Once I did that, I collapsed.  I wasn't stiff, but I slept practically the rest of the day into the early evening.  I thought I'd have trouble sleeping that night.  NOPE.  Slept all thru the night.  :)

Absolutely looking forward to pre-reg!!!
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: perc2100 on August 14, 2022, 04:42:59 PM
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My only real negative was the Merch line.  It was super slow.  I even said something to the people that checked me out (when I finally got up to the front).  Apparently, it made no difference.
You know, I don't think I've EVER experienced a relatively quick/EZPZ merch line at Comic-Con: especially since they went to the pre-order/pickup model awhile back.  In my experience, if you don't go on Wed. well before the Exhibit Hall opens for Preview Night, you're waiting a long time.  What's even more confounding to me, is even when you order stuff in advance and go to pick-it up you're still looking at a 60 min. wait: shorter than if you didn't pre-order (which wasn't an option this year), but sill FAR longer than it feels like it would take.  I suppose they don't have volunteers run that station, since it deals with cash and whatnot, but that has always felt like a relatively easy fix: just have more merch 'tables' for the booth, and double the staff at least.  But I get that could be challenging.  I wonder how much business they hypothetically lose every year because people just don't want to bother with the long line.  This year I was fortunate with line group buddies who helped me (and many others) out so I was able to get the nifty Rocketeer SDCC 2022 shirt w/out spending hours in line but I suspect there were others who would've bought a shirt or something but just didn't want to wait.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: accelerate on August 14, 2022, 07:38:27 PM
SDCC 2022 was a bit “off” for me, and I’m not sure if it was a direct result of this being the first big con in the COVID era.

Veterans of SDCC know there’s no way to do/see everything you want, no matter how well you plan. But the way I’ve long since approached SDCC is not to have much a plan. I have very few items in terms of “must do/see”; some of my best experiences have come by way of being in the right place at the right time. That being said, I will still try for some big panels like Marvel.

So you would think my “let’s just see what happens” approach would be perfect for this year, where there were less hot panels and less exhibitors. You’d think there would be more time to just soak in SDCC. And yet… that didn’t happen at all. I usually love just wandering up & down the exhibit hall,  hanging out in artist’s alley or finding unique merchandise to buy. But I didn’t even get to really explore the exhibit floor until Sunday. And I’m not sure how that happened. It wasn’t like I went to many panels (one on Thursday and Hall H on Saturday). I wasn’t visiting off sites. In fact, this was the first year I didn’t even try to go to any off sites. In fact, right now I’m struggling to remember what I even did on Friday.

Usually my camera is packed full of cosplay photos, as I love to spend blocks of time just photographing. But this year, I had maybe ten photos total of cosplayers. I clearly didn’t spend any time using my camera.

This is not to say I didn’t get to do anything. I did get to check out the IMDB Boat finally. And the D&D Tavern was awesome. My one miss was going to the PacMan event as it was already mostly over (I should’ve headed over right after the D&D Tavern).

I think the best part of my SDCC experience this year was checking out new restaurants. I tend to go to the same places every year — Broken Yolk, Tin Fish, Burger Lounge, etc. This year I made it a point to eat at new places, my favorite being Richard Walker’s Pancake House. Also, Basic Pizza was damn good. As were the fish tacos at Margaritas Kitchen & Cantina. And we ended up eating at Cali Cream for dessert nearly every single evening.

The one other aspect that made SDCC weird for me was that we had only one other friend who came out. Usually I have a few group of friends there, and I’d hang out with each group at various times. That didn’t happen this year, and it felt a little more lonely. I’m hoping next year, more of my friends decide to come out.

TLDR: SDCC felt off to me, and it had little to do with the convention itself.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on August 20, 2022, 01:01:37 PM
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I attended the Masquerade for the first time.  It was going to be on my list for 2020.  Enjoyed it, even though one of the performers fell off the stage (ouch).

I only attended the Masquerade once in 2012.  I have attended a couple of other Masquerades' as a photographer.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: darqamin on August 28, 2022, 01:15:01 PM
I was quite busy in the post-con time catching up on work and other stuff, so I didn't get to write anything up until now. However, I did record an episode on my podcast talking about my full experience and schedule, which is available here for that plus has our House of the Dragon fan panel discussion added at the end
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if anyone has the interest or  patience to listen to that.

For a quickly typed up summary here, overall it was great to be at SDCC in person 3 years after attending SDCC 2019. We picked up our badges and vaccination wristbands on Tuesday which was a good move given how busy it would be the next day . On Wednesday we attended some similar things like last time, particularly the Dragon Ball offsite which was great as usual (though no world record event this time but at least we were permitted to skip the line to get in early before it opened) and the "GOT" related offsite (now House of the Dragon) which was also great as well. Unfortunately, the Dracarys app did not work for me and still does not work properly so I didn't get to raise a dragon at all, let alone with early access at SDCC. We also attended the Upper Deck press event (which was mid afternoon so the first official thing on our schedule) which was fun with appetizers and drinks and a news announcement: https://thepopinsider.com/interests/sdcc/sdcc-upper-deck-collect-forever/)

Our Podcasting 101 panel went well on Thursday and was a nice way to start off the main days of the convention, including having Mark Rosewater from Magic TG attend in the audience and ask good questions. One of the shocking differences from past years was the lack of panels that we attended. Other than the 2 panels I was attending as a panelist, we only attended 2 other panels during the whole event: Sponge Bob and a Babylon 5 panel. I usually attended many more panels in the past, but between a lot of time spent in the exhibitor hall and attending offsite events and parties, we just didn't have the time to attend panels of interest or the ones that were of interest overlapped with those specific events.

D&D offsite experience was good as well and we really enjoyed attending Funko Fundays (on Friday) for the first time. That event was certainly a highlight, including meeting the other members of our 10 person table from the forums and the professionalism and planning that went into doing the lineup for that. We were up near the front along with 2 other teams from FOCC, where we all experienced a shocking moment when one of our forum friends who was walking with a cane fell down on the escalator. Thankfully, they were ultimately OK and a show of solidarity was made by other forum members who either helped them get up via the elevator or helped organize things and argue respectfully with staff until our teams were allowed in properly to get our tables and save a seat for our fallen team member(tip is to always ask for someone higher up if the original staff member is not being reasonable). Some people nearly missed getting their prototype and drink tokens (the former far more important than the latter) including us but I think we all did get it in the end and enjoyed a great event together.

My voice felt the impact of yelling the next 2 days however, as it was strained and it hurt to talk. It took a few days to recover from that, but I was able to barely get through my House of the Dragon fan panel  on Saturday before I stopped talking for that day. Sunday night with FOCC was a great way to end the convention and I saved my voice for most of the day to be able to get some talking in that night.

Our hotel (MMM) was great and we enjoyed greatly being closer to the convention this year. We even got to use the pool on Tuesday before we got busy with SDCC. We had a nice view of the Bay and the Dragon Ball site (including the massive line outside it on most days).

The only disappointments from the convention were 1) missing out on signings/seeing GRRM again due to COVID-19 concerns which is totally understandable given the circumstances (and I did get my books signed by him post-convention on via friends), 2) Getting into The Orville press event only having to leave before I interviewed anyone because it was delayed for over 45 minutes and I had my panel to get to and 3) Not getting into the Funko panel at Hall H but that is on me for not getting their earlier, I didn't expect it to be capped like that because of pops being handed out at it (nor did I know about such pops that would be handed out).

Getting all our purchases home was an ordeal. I specifically brought an empty suitcase to be used for purchases but my partner bought more (and larger) than expected including a huge Yugioh figure so we had to spend hours packing in everything. Getting home was tough too, again careful package to get in more than usual as carryon plus relying on early seating via being seated in the emergency exit aisle and a bump up to first class for the second leg of our  trip via a bid to get in without trouble. Getting it all on was no problem in the end but our 2nd flight was delayed resulting in a rebooked flight and late flight home.  Getting home was a huge relief after that and then it was some days before we fully unpacked and recovered from the convention. Whether we'll attend next year I don't know. I always say we need a break but then get interested in attending over the course of the year. But the cost of attending is high and with travel open again we may decide to go somewhere else for a big summer vacation next year, we'll see, but of course we'll keep our options open for next year.
Title: Re: Post con Reactions, Reflections, etc all
Post by: waltbionik on September 04, 2022, 09:49:55 AM
I usually like to get to San Diego on Tuesday. One year, our flight was delayed and my crew and I missed most of Preview Night. So, Tuesday it is. I'm looking at hotels for Tuesday night and they're already over $250 a night. Hotels were never this expensive the night before SDCC. We usually book the Embassy Suites for one night, but that's not even available.
Right now non-stop flights from the east coast are around 650. I guess the good old days of booking early and getting a deal are gone. But, I'm still going. I can't see myself ever missing SDCC.