Comic-Con: From a first-timer’s perspective

I grew up in San Diego and yet, I have no firm grasp on what Comic-Con is actually like. The whole ordeal seems overwhelming and insane, but not in a bad way. To me, it’s an event that if you were well-prepared for, could be an experience of a lifetime. I see it as a well thought-out and incredibly detailed celebration of talent, from the outfits to the panels and all of the celeb-spottings in between.

My first thought when I found out that I’m going this year? “What am I supposed to wear?” I’m not a Cosplay-savvy person, and I don’t have the time nor creativity to make an extravagant outfit happen. My confusion about Comic-Con also lies in the fact that I have no real knowledge of comics (sorry to disappoint my first love, Seth Cohen from “The O.C.”), besides hasty generalizations that I would guess might fit the theme.

So, is dressing as Wonder Woman played out? I would say no, but unless you have a definite game plan or are in-the-know of what to wear, just plan to dress comfortably so you can stay there for as long as possible without any complications. Jeans, flats or sneakers and a blouse will be what I go for as a rookie. If you do decide to stand-out with an outfit, do your research and get inventive.

My next thought was trying to figure out what film would be the big deal of Comic-Con 2016. Although it wasn’t the only thing going on last year, “Star Wars” definitely stole the show for 2015. Having a major movie like that gives a newcomer like myself a better idea of what to expect. This year, a few of the major studios like 20th Century Fox won’t be in attendance, and that news has been the talk of the town. I’ve discovered that this doesn’t mean there are no movies or a lack of celebrity attendees by any means.

No doubt, celebrities are definitely one of the most appealing parts about Comic-Con. The list is ever-changing and thus, makes this event a great place for spotting some stellar stars.

I am thrilled to catch a glimpse of the AMC actors from one of my favorite shows, “The Walking Dead.” The cast, including Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus and Lauren Cohan will be present for the panel. There is also word that Chris Pratt and Jennifer Lawrence, stars of the upcoming “Passengers” movie, may attend this year’s Con.

As a ‘90s kid, I’m elated that there’s an old-school Nickelodeon sector at Comic-Con this year. Yep, they’re basically converting their booth into a huge throwback Nick section, highlighting their well-known characters and games from some of my favorite shows like “Legends of the Hidden Temple.” Oh, and in case you watched “All That” back in the day, stars from the show like Kel Mitchell, Danny Tamberelli, Josh Server and Lori Beth Denberg will all be in attendance. That’s something my kid self would be very upset if my adult self didn’t act on.

Lastly, my true loves will also be with me at the event... or at least nearby. I’m talking about Justin Timberlake and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, of course, who will be appearing in Hall H at the DreamWorks and Open Roads’ panels. JT is promoting “Trolls” and Gordon-Levitt will be with the cast of “Snowden.” Anna Kendrick, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Scott Eastwood and Shailene Woodley are confirmed as guests as well for the two major, celeb-filled panels.

I expect to be blown away with the overall experience of Comic-Con. I hope to get a little lost, see some amazingly intricate outfits and booths and rub shoulders with some high-profile, talented actors, directors and writers if I’m lucky.

Follow me on Twitter @lizmeoww for live reactions of my experience.

Source: DiscoverSD