While the current strikes in Hollywood continue, so must San Diego Comic-Con. The annual event will take place this weekend, minus studios such as Marvel and DC. However, fans are still expected to descend upon the San Diego COncention Center. Fans are already lining up for the event. Security for the event is saying they are still expecting large crowds "like any other Comic-Con."
One fan who was waiting in line to get into tonight's trade show preview was asked how he felt about the strike, and he replied, "I don't mind it - they're fighting for their rights. This is a fan event for us, and for them, this is their jobs and their livelihood. If they don't fight for it now, they're not going to get it."
Another guest said, "I don't go for the panels, but I do feel bad for those who do love going to the panels and seeing all the stars come through."
The forthcoming edition of this year's event, commencing fully on Thursday, boasts an array of captivating highlights that are sure to excite attendees. Hall H will feature Paramount's "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem," directed by Jeff Rowe and Kyler Spears. Additionally, there will be Collider's "Directors on Directing" panel, graced by Gareth Edwards (upcoming The Creator) and Justin Simien of "Haunted Mansion" fame. Last year's Hall H panel saw an unexpected appearance by Keanu Reeves, unveiling the trailer for "John Wick: Chapter 4." Another exciting event will see Scream Queens' beloved star, Jamie Lee Curtis, discussing her new graphic novel, "Mother Nature." Furthermore, renowned filmmaker Kevin Smith is set to discuss Netflix's "Masters of the Universe" and the documentary "Chasing Chasing Amy."
Peacock's thrilling new John Wick series, "The Continental," will be showcased by EP and director Albert Hughes, alongside EP Marshall Persinger, with exclusive footage. On Friday, Peter Jackson's WETA will celebrate the 20th anniversary of "Lord of the Rings" during a special panel. Meanwhile, A24 is building anticipation for the July 28 release of its Sundance horror acquisition, "Talk to Me," with a panel and a late-night screening on Thursday.
Interestingly, Sunday's schedule typically featured major Hall H panels from FX for their shows. However, this year, the 6,500-capacity auditorium will remain vacant, with no significant events scheduled for the last day of the event.
Notably, many Hollywood studios decided against providing sneak previews of their genre offerings to the vast fanboy audience this weekend, a contrast to networks showcasing episodes like ABC's "Abbott Elementary." On the other hand, streaming platforms have seized the opportunity to capture audience attention, dominating the Gaslamp Quarter with striking building ads from the likes of AMC+, Paramount+, Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix.
