Tag: pop culture

Cool cosplay and fun outside San Diego Comic-Con.

I'm given a hearty greeting by the Mighty Thor. Last year this awesome guy cosplayed as Batman.
I’m given a hearty greeting by the Mighty Thor. Last year this awesome guy cosplayed as Batman.

Here’s a bunch of fun photos showing activity outside the convention center during 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. There’s so much to see, to absorb, one could happily spend hours just walking around. Most of these pics are from this evening–Thursday. A few are from Wednesday.

Visitors to Horton Plaza are invited to become colorful superheroes during San Diego Comic-Con.
Visitors to Horton Plaza are invited to become colorful superheroes during San Diego Comic-Con.
Just inside door of Spreckels Theater Building where Conan O'Brien audience picks up tickets.
Just inside door of Spreckels Theater Building where Conan O’Brien audience picks up tickets.
Snoopy with granny glasses peers from Gaslamp shop window.
Snoopy with granny glasses peers from Gaslamp shop window.
Poster in Gaslamp advertises William Shatner's Man O' War.
Poster in Gaslamp advertises William Shatner’s Man O’ War.
Entertainment Weekly had lots of people posing for photographs. Superheroes of San Diego!
Entertainment Weekly had lots of people posing for photographs. Superheroes of San Diego!
It does indeed look like Fear Begins Here.
It does indeed look like Fear Begins Here.
Video board promotes exciting NBC television programming in Gaslamp Square.
Video board promotes exciting NBC television programming in Gaslamp Square.
Heroes Reborn venue had huge images of the powerful characters around the black structure.
Heroes Reborn venue had huge images of the powerful characters around the black structure.
Their biggest mistake was betting against him. The Player. Thursdays this Fall on NBC.
Their biggest mistake was betting against him. The Player. Thursdays this Fall on NBC.
Photo of crowd swarming across Harbor Drive and trolley tracks between San Diego Convention Center and Gaslamp Square.
Photo of crowd crossing Harbor Drive and trolley tracks between San Diego Convention Center and Gaslamp Square.
LEGO Bane is on the wall of the Hard Rock Hotel!
LEGO Bane is on the wall of the Hard Rock Hotel!
The cosmic wrap and astronaut figure on the Hard Rock Hotel building advertises The Expanse, coming soon on SyFy.
The cosmic wrap and astronaut figure on the Hard Rock Hotel building advertises The Expanse, coming soon on Syfy.
Ladies in Sharknado 3 shark heads hold signs indicating It's Your Patriotic Duty to Embrace the 'Nado!
Ladies in Sharknado 3 shark heads hold signs indicating It’s Your Patriotic Duty to Embrace the ‘Nado!
The downright silly new Colonel Sanders is shown as a unicorn standing by Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade.
The downright silly new Colonel Sanders is shown as a unicorn standing by Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade.
Awesome cosplay in downtown San Diego for 2015 Comic-Con. Three against one! I don't have a chance!
Awesome cosplay in downtown San Diego for 2015 Comic-Con. Three against one! I don’t have a chance!
A large troop of Colony soldiers marches down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade during Comic-Con.
A large troop of Colony soldiers marches down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade during Comic-Con.
Schick offered free shaves near the Assassin's Creed obstacle course. Schick has partnered with software developer Ubisoft.
Schick offered free shaves near the Assassin’s Creed obstacle course. Schick has partnered with software developer Ubisoft.
You, get in here! It seems everyone is trying to attract the attention of thousands of Comic-Con attendees.
You, get in here! It seems everyone is trying to attract the attention of thousands of Comic-Con attendees.
Webtoon. Long live comics!
Webtoon. Long live comics!
People dine at the Tin Fish, which is completely wrapped in NBC Blindspot graphics. A mind erased. A body of clues.
People dine at the Tin Fish, which is completely wrapped in NBC Blindspot graphics. A mind erased. A body of clues.
It's LEGO Homer Simpson! He's equipped with some tough-looking Transformer-like armor, which includes Wonder Woman and Gollum on top!
It’s LEGO Homer Simpson! He’s equipped with some tough-looking Transformer-like armor, which includes Wonder Woman and Gollum on top!
These suited bald guys with barcode tattoos on their necks are lined up to promote Hitman, Agent 47.
These suited bald guys with barcode tattoos on their necks are lined up to promote Hitman: Agent 47.
It looks like Hulk shrank a bit!
It looks like Hulk shrank a bit!
Obi-Wan Kenobi seemed to have the situation in hand. That's a pretty big crowd passing by, however, and I've seen a number of nasty-looking villains!
Obi-Wan Kenobi seemed to have the situation in hand. That’s a pretty big crowd passing by, however, and I’ve seen a number of nasty-looking villains!
You scream, I scream, the Scream Queens serve ice cream!
You scream, I scream, the Scream Queens serve ice cream!
This huge super cool robot is called MegaBot. It arrived near Petco Park for Comic-Con on Wednesday.
This huge super cool robot is called MegaBot. It arrived near Petco Park for Comic-Con on Wednesday.
Dark Souls III has a cool backdrop at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone next to Petco Park. Can these guys remove the sword from the stone wall.
Dark Souls III has a cool backdrop at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone next to Petco Park. Can these guys remove the sword from the stone wall?
Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is an upcoming movie, and a fun venue in the Interactive Zone.
Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is an upcoming movie, and a fun venue in the Interactive Zone.
Darth Vader challenged me to a light saber duel. I declined. I like my limbs.
Darth Vader challenged me to a light saber duel. I declined. I like my limbs.
Inflatable slides at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone were set up to promote The Peanuts Movie.
Inflatable slides at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone were set up to promote The Peanuts Movie.
Is that Snow White smiling at me. Don't bite that apple!
Is that Snow White smiling at me? Don’t bite that apple!
That is either a Spartan, a Trojan, or a guy who likes USC football.
That is either a Spartan, a Trojan, or a guy who likes USC football.
Batman has seen enough of this rabble. He's looking grim and determined to do something.
Batman has seen enough of this rabble. He’s looking grim and determined to do something.
Stoop Kid's afraid to leave his stoop. Or remove his Star Trek uniform.
Stoop Kid’s afraid to leave his stoop. Or perhaps remove a Star Trek uniform.
As the evening progresses and the FX Fearless Arena Experience closes for the day, Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll are abandoned.
As the evening progresses and the FX Fearless Arena Experience closes for the day, Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll are abandoned.
Archer graphic in the Hilton Bayfront Park.
Archer graphic in the Hilton Bayfront Park.
American Horror Story Hotel has closed for the day and a video photographer exits. Was it too scary for him.
American Horror Story Hotel has closed for the day and a video photographer exits. Was it too scary for him?
Model grabs at swirling dollar bills in window of American Horror Story Hotel while being filmed.
Model grabs at swirling dollar bills in window of American Horror Story Hotel while being filmed.
Kid checks out vacant entrance to the Bastard Executioner venue. Escape the forest duel.
Kid checks out vacant entrance to the Bastard Executioner venue. Escape the forest duel!
I'm guessing this passage near the exit is where thrill-seekers escape the forest duel.
I’m guessing this passage near the exit is where thrill-seekers escape the forest duel.
Upside down Louie seems to wait in line for Hall H with thousands of Comic-Con fans. They'll be sleeping outside all night on the grass or concrete. That's dedication!
Upside down Louie seems to wait in line for Hall H with thousands of Comic-Con fans. They’ll be sleeping outside all night on the grass or concrete. That’s dedication!
Hunkering down for a long wait behind the San Diego Convention Center. These guys are near the Adult Swim carnival.
Hunkering down for a long wait behind the San Diego Convention Center. These guys are near the Adult Swim carnival.
Now that's a lot of people waiting to see panels in Hall H tomorrow. And there are more behind me!
Now that’s a lot of people waiting to see panels in Hall H tomorrow. And there are many more behind me!
Folks riding a unicorn prepare to launch above the Omni Hotel into the cloudy blue sky, over a gigantic bubble resting on the grass!
Folks riding a unicorn prepare to launch above the Omni Hotel into the cloudy blue sky, over a gigantic bubble resting on the grass!
That bubble is actually a huge, working snow globe promoting Fargo. The Waffle Hut is inside!
That bubble is actually a huge, working snow globe promoting Fargo. The Waffle Hut is inside!
Oh, dear. More zombies on the loose.
Oh, dear. More zombies on the loose.
Time to head back across Harbor Drive as the day ends. Even a pair of Leias have to eat dinner.
Time to head back across Harbor Drive as the day ends. Even a pair of Leias have to eat dinner.
Looking down from Harbor Drive bridge at San Diego rail yard and a bus with Game of Thrones wrap turning about.
Looking down from Harbor Drive bridge at San Diego rail yard and a bus with Game of Thrones wrap turning about.
Everybody had a great time. Day 1 of San Diego Comic-Con is coming to a close.
Everybody had a great time. Day 1 of San Diego Comic-Con is coming to a close.
A couple slowly walks along after a busy day. That's one gigantic swag bag!
A couple slowly walks along after a busy day. That’s one gigantic swag bag!

…

Enjoy future posts! Join me on Facebook or Twitter.

Some cool photos from Comic-Con Preview Night.

Hundreds of cool Star Wars collectibles are on display and for sale during San Diego Comic-Con.
Many cool Star Wars collectibles are on display and for sale during San Diego Comic-Con.

I’ve got a glut of cool photos from 2015 San Diego Comic-Con Preview Night. But it’s getting late and I’m getting sleepy. So here’s just the first batch for now…

Star Trek Ugly Dolls graphics at Preview Night in the San Diego Convention Center.
Star Trek Ugly Dolls graphics at Preview Night in the San Diego Convention Center.
An extraterrestrial and Medusa. There are many fantastic, detailed models exhibited at Comic-Con on the convention floor.
An extraterrestrial and Medusa. There are hundreds of fantastic, detailed models at Comic-Con on the convention floor.
Imaginative t-shirts featuring Edgar Allan Poe and Nikola Tesla.
Imaginative t-shirts featuring Edgar Allan Poe and Nikola Tesla.
A super cool Batman towers above the crowd in the Funko area.
A super cool Batman towers above the crowd near the Funko sign.
Scooby and the gang are in San Diego with the Mystery Machine!
Scooby and the gang are in San Diego with their Mystery Machine!
This zombie was getting a little too close for comfort.
This zombie was getting a little too close for comfort.
It seems the walking dead at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con were having problems with these revolving doors.
It seems the walking dead at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con are having problems with these revolving doors.
This is getting pretty darn frightening.
This is becoming pretty darn frightening.
I forgot this guy's clever name. Something like Screw Head.
I forgot this guy’s clever name. Something like Screw Head.
This monstrous orc with a hammer is from the awesome Warcraft exhibit.
This monstrous orc with a hammer is from the awesome Warcraft exhibit.
Adult Swim had fun and games, and prizes slid out of the cat's mouth.
Adult Swim has fun and games, and prizes slide out of the cat’s mouth.
Kuato from Total Recall was making the rounds at Comic-Con, unconcerned about staying hidden, it seems.
Kuato from Total Recall was making the rounds at Comic-Con, unconcerned about staying hidden, it seems.
R2-D2 looks kind of lonely.
R2-D2 looks kind of lonely.
Jabba the Hutt figurine on display at San Diego Comic-Con.
Jabba the Hutt figurine on display at San Diego Comic-Con.
I saw several angry Hulks on the verge of smashing something.
I saw several angry Hulks on the verge of smashing something.
Spiderman has his own awesome Hot Wheels car!
Spiderman has his own awesome Hot Wheels car!
This proud Batman just has to suck it up, surrounded by lesser figures.
This proud Batman just has to suck it up, surrounded by lesser figures.
In addition to full-size Batman and Superman costumes for sale, these cool creations can be yours to wear as you please.
In addition to full-size Batman and Superman costumes for sale, these fantastic creations can be yours to wear as you please.
Looks like Predator ripped the skull and spine right outa somebody.
Looks like Predator ripped the skull and spine right outa somebody.
Yeah, Iron Man is always pretty popular.
Yeah, Iron Man is always pretty popular.
Penguin figurine on display at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Penguin figurine on display at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Pop culture fan with camera records all sorts of cool sights in one display case.
Pop culture fan with camera records all sorts of cool sights in one display case.
The large Star Wars area has film clips playing overhead from the classic movies.
The large Star Wars area has film clips playing overhead from the classic movies.
This speeder is used by the character Rey in the upcoming Star Wars film.
This speeder is used by the character Rey in the upcoming Star Wars film.
R2-D2, C-3PO, a stormtrooper, Boba Fett and the Millennium Falcon are busting through a wall.
R2-D2, C-3PO, a stormtrooper, Boba Fett and the Millennium Falcon are busting through a wall.
Fresh from the pages of Shonen Jump, a super popular manga.
Fresh from the pages of Shonen Jump, a super popular manga.
The extensive LEGO area at Comic-Con contains lots of cool LEGO models.
The extensive LEGO area at Comic-Con contains lots of cool LEGO models.
Perhaps the coolest LEGO model is of the epic battle in Avengers II between Hulk and Iron Man in his Hulkbuster armor.
Perhaps the coolest LEGO model is of the epic battle in Avengers II between Hulk and Iron Man in his Hulkbuster armor.

…

Enjoy future posts! Join me on Facebook or Twitter.

Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 2 days to go!

Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this!
Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this advertisement!

Now just a bit over two days to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con officially opens!

I walked early and late yesterday around the convention center and Gaslamp. Workers were busy all over the place getting stuff ready.

For your enjoyment, I present another batch of photos showing all sorts of cool sights!

Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn't born. It's made.
Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn’t born. It’s made.
A local television news reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera.
A local television reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera for the evening news.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it's his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it’s his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn't know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn’t know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You're gonna need a bigger imagination.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You’re gonna need a bigger imagination.
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. It promotes Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The Ubisoft Assassin's Creed obstacle course is half-completed. It appears slightly different from last year.
The Ubisoft Assassin’s Creed obstacle course is half-completed. The configuration appears slightly different from last year.
Looks real. Or it is real, and those workers have super strength.
Looks realistic. Or is it real, and those workers have super strength?
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
The Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
For 2015 the Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass of Hilton Bayfront Park.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass at Hilton Bayfront Park.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, two days before Comic-Con begins.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, a couple days before Comic-Con begins.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Here's a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Here’s a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty's flying saucer!
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty’s flying saucer!

…

Enjoy future posts! Join me on Facebook or Twitter.

Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 4 days to go!

Distinctive San Diego Comic-Con International sign is hung on convention center for the 2015 pop culture mega-event.
Distinctive San Diego Comic-Con International logo is hung on convention center for the 2015 pop culture mega-event.

Wow! This morning I saw that preparation for Comic-Con has pushed into high gear! 2015 San Diego Comic-Con comes very shortly after the Fourth of July, so as soon as the fireworks ended, workers have come out in droves to erect outdoor venues and complete a large number of impressive building wraps. There still isn’t much to see in the Gaslamp, where restaurants, bars and shops have been concentrating on drawing Independence Day crowds. I guess in the next day or two that will rapidly change!

Everywhere around the San Diego Convention Center there's activity. Tents are being sent up to shelter Comic-Con attendees who will wait in long lines.
Everywhere around the San Diego Convention Center there’s activity. Tents are being set up to shelter Comic-Con attendees who will wait in long lines.
Party rental workers hustle to get everything ready for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, shortly after the Fourth of July.
Party rental workers hustle to get everything ready for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, shortly after the Fourth of July.
The Last Ship building wrap on the Marriott hotel is finally finished several days before Comic-Con opens.
The Last Ship building wrap on the Marriott hotel is finally finished several days before Comic-Con opens.
Ubisoft is returning this year with the popular Assassin's Creed obstacle course. It's under construction at the same spot as last year.
Ubisoft is returning this year with the popular Assassin’s Creed obstacle course. It’s under construction at the same spot as last year.
Conan O'Brien building wrap is visible beyond crane erecting framework of Assassin's Creed obstacle course.
Conan O’Brien building wrap is visible beyond crane erecting framework of Assassin’s Creed obstacle course.
According to what I read, Gaslamp Square in front of the Tin Fish restaurant will be the scene of NBC's Heroes Reborn, where visitors will discover their own pyro-kinetic ability.
According to what I read, Gaslamp Square in front of the Tin Fish restaurant will be the scene of NBC’s Heroes Reborn, where visitors will discover their own pyro-kinetic ability!
Guys build steel structure near entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter, the hub of Comic-Con activity.
Guys build steel structure near entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter, the hub of Comic-Con activity.
NBC's Heroes Reborn cool venue for Comic-Con fans is rapidly under construction.
NBC’s Heroes Reborn elaborate venue for Comic-Con fans is under construction on July 5.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton Bayfront is making great progress since I posted a photo two days ago.
The huge The Strain building wrap on the Hilton Bayfront is making great progress since I posted a photo two days ago.
FX Fearless Arena is being built in the Hilton Bayfront Park. Attractions will include The Strain, American Horror Story Hotel, The Simpsons, Fargo, and The Bastard Executioner.
FX Fearless Arena is being built in the Hilton Bayfront Park. Attractions will include The Strain, American Horror Story: Hotel, The Simpsons, Fargo, and The Bastard Executioner.
There's going to be more cool stuff than ever at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
There’s going to be more cool stuff than ever at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
Another section of the FX Fearless Arena under construction, with a big Minority Report banner in the background.
Another section of the FX Fearless Arena under construction, with a big Minority Report banner in the background.
Close up photo of Minority Report image on the Hilton parking garage.
Close up photo of Minority Report image on the Hilton parking garage.
Once Upon a Time returns this year. A huge wrap is being applied on a high section of Petco Park even now as I type!
Once Upon a Time returns this year. A huge wrap is being applied on a high section of Petco Park even now as I type!
It appears Petco Park will be the site of Galactic Army Boot Camp!
It appears Petco Park will be the site of Galactic Army Boot Camp!
Who will be in booth 437. Answer that, and we'll know what this wrap is on the west side of Petco Park, beside Tony Gwynn Drive.
Who will be in booth 437? Answer that, and we’ll know what this wrap is advertising on the west wall of Petco Park, beside Tony Gwynn Drive.
And, finally, I love this huge wrap on Petco Park, facing the convention center. It's The Muppets! Yeah!
And, finally, I love this huge wrap on Petco Park, facing the convention center. It’s The Muppets! Yeah!

…

Enjoy future posts! Join me on Facebook or Twitter.

Cool Star Wars cosplay in Fourth of July parade!

Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and tie fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!
Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and TIE fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!

I spent the morning in Coronado. I’ve always wanted to see their huge Independence Day parade, reputed to be one of the very best in America. (And I believe it! I’ll be posting a bunch of pics later–I’ve got a lot of photos to go through!)

One of the biggest sensations of the parade was created when a bunch of San Diego Star Wars Society members passed down the length of Orange Avenue, engaging in elaborate cosplay. Talk about cool! It’s like Comic-Con started early!

San Diego Stars Wars Society members engage in elaborate cosplay for Coronado's Fourth of July parade!
San Diego Stars Wars Society members engaged in elaborate cosplay for Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don't be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don’t be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
Kids have a load of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.
Kids have a whole lot of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.

…

Join me on Facebook or Twitter!

Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 6 days to go!

A new San Diego Comic-Con building wrap going up on Hilton Bayfront today is a bit of a mystery.
A huge new San Diego Comic-Con building wrap going up on the Hilton Bayfront today is a bit of a mystery.

Less than six days to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con kicks off!

I walked all around downtown today, looking for signs of preparation. Nothing much has popped up in the Gaslamp yet, but a brand new huge building wrap is now being installed on the Hilton Bayfront near the San Diego Convention Center. After talking to some people, I’ve concluded the wrap will promote The Strain on FX. This would make sense, as the large grassy area in front of the Hilton will be the site of FX’s cool-sounding Fearless Arena Experience.

Stay tuned for more pics of Comic-Con stuff!

Baristas at hotel's Starbucks and a tourist info guy in the Hilton seem to think this graphic will promote The Strain on FX.
Baristas at hotel’s Starbucks and a tourist info guy in the Hilton seem to think this graphic will promote The Strain on FX.
Several Game of Thrones banners were hung on trolley track fences near the Gaslamp a few days ago.
Several Game of Thrones banners were hung on trolley track fences near the Gaslamp a few days ago.
Game of Thrones banners on trolley electrical poles along Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade in San Diego.
Game of Thrones banners on trolley electrical poles along Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade in San Diego.
The huge Conan Live from Comic-Con wrap on the Marriott Marquis is nearly finished.
The huge Conan Live from Comic-Con wrap on the Marriott Marquis is nearly finished.
Swirl Girl has amazing rainbow powers of sweetness, it seems. She appears on the door of Sweet Things Frozen Yogurt.
Swirl Girl has amazing rainbow powers of sweetness, it seems. She appears on the door of Sweet Things Frozen Yogurt.
San Diego Symphony ticket booth at Embarcadero Marina Park South advertises the upcoming Pokeman and Star Trek movie Summer Pops concerts.
San Diego Symphony ticket booth at Embarcadero Marina Park South advertises the upcoming Pokeman and Star Trek movie Summer Pops concerts.
The American Comedy Co. in the Gaslamp has a funny lineup set for Comic-Con, including Jay and Silent Bob.
The American Comedy Co. in the Gaslamp has a funny lineup set for Comic-Con, including Jay and Silent Bob.
Crown Books in Horton Plaza is where you can buy Chewbacca at a nice discount!
Crown Books in Horton Plaza is where you can buy Chewbacca at a nice discount!

…

Join me on Facebook or Twitter!

Huge building wraps and banners hung for Comic-Con!

Several huge Minority Report banners have been hung on the Hilton parking garage for 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Several huge Minority Report banners have been hung on the Hilton parking garage for the upcoming 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.

I got off work early today, so I took the trolley down to the San Diego Convention Center and walked around looking to photograph cool 2015 Comic-Con preparations. The main thing I noticed was that several gigantic building wraps and banners are being installed at this very moment! One week to go until Comic-Con, and things should soon start getting interesting!

A gigantic orange Conan O’Brien building wrap is being applied to the side of the Marriott Hotel facing the San Diego Convention Center.
A gigantic orange Conan O’Brien building wrap is being applied to the side of the Marriott Hotel facing the San Diego Convention Center.
A suspended platform is used to adhere panels of a The Last Ship building wrap to windows of the shining Marriott Marquis.
A suspended platform is used to adhere panels of The Last Ship building wrap to shining windows of the Marriott Marquis.
Major preparations have begun the week before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!
Major preparations have begun the week before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con!

…

Join me on Facebook or Twitter!

Rumor: Conan O’Brien to be superhero at Conan-Con.

Conan O'Brien Live at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, advertised on marquee of the Spreckels Theater Building in downtown San Diego.
Conan O’Brien Live at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, advertised on marquee of the Spreckels Theater Building in downtown San Diego.

With this important blog post I’d like to address an astonishing rumor.  It concerns popular television personality Conan O’Brien, and his impending visit to San Diego for 2015 Comic-Con.  An interpretation of the strange clues and suggestive images photographed on the sign below has produced a startling rumor.

It's rumored that Conan O'Brien, who now possesses vast powers, will once again boldly address The People of Earth from this bus stop next to the NBC building.
It’s rumored that Conan O’Brien, who now possesses vast powers, will once again boldly address The People of Earth from this bus stop strategically located next to the NBC building.
Upon closer inspection, the orange bus stop sign appears to contain fascinating and possibly meaningful markings.
Upon closer inspection, the orange bus stop sign appears to contain fascinating and possibly meaningful markings.
Conan, it is rumored, will emerge at the San Diego Comic-Con as a full fledged superhero, battling for the justice of all humankind.
Conan, it is thought, will emerge at the San Diego Comic-Con as a full fledged superhero, battling for the justice of all humankind.
Fans have begun to wonder what form the nascent superhero will assume. Perhaps he'll resemble a bat.
Fans have begun to wonder what form the nascent superhero will assume. Perhaps he’ll resemble a bat.
Or perhaps Conan O'Brien will wear a Superman-style emblem that warns all villains of his heightened powers, which include flaming hair.
Or perhaps Conan O’Brien will wear a Superman-style emblem that warns all troublemakers of his amazing superpowers, which include flaming hair.
Odds are he'll style himself as Conanman, as that's generally the thing a godlike superhero will do when presented with the opportunity. Please disregard the word immediately below.
Odds are he’ll style himself as Conanman, as that’s generally the thing a godlike superhero will do when presented with the opportunity.
All shall bow down before him. And San Diego Comic-Con, to loud acclamation, will immediately be renamed Conan-Con.
All shall bow down before him. And San Diego Comic-Con, to loud and universal acclamation, will immediately be renamed Conan-Con.
Hopefully the newborn superhero won't suffer a meltdown.
Hopefully the newborn superhero won’t suffer a meltdown.
Or perhaps he'll just remain plain old Conan. And remain happily on TBS.
Or perhaps he’ll just remain plain old funny Conan. And remain happily on TBS.

…

Join me for lots of upcoming San Diego Comic-Con fun on Facebook or Twitter!

Signs and omens…Comic-Con is around the corner!

Superman was spotted walking through the Gaslamp two weeks before San Diego Comic-Con!
Superman has been spotted walking through the Gaslamp two weeks before San Diego Comic-Con!

Two weeks to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con! Signs and omens of the super popular event’s coming are popping up around downtown, especially in the Gaslamp Quarter. Here’s what I spotted in the past couple days…

MTS has Comic-Con trolley passes that can be purchased with your smartphone.
MTS has Comic-Con trolley passes that can be purchased with your smartphone.
Game of Thrones advertisement at a trolley station. A Conan Live at Comic-Con trolley wrap passes by.
Game of Thrones advertisement at a trolley station. A Conan Live at Comic-Con trolley wrap passes by.
The latest Comic-Con trolley wrap promotes The Muppets! Yea!
The latest Comic-Con trolley wrap promotes soon to debut The Muppets television series on ABC!
Kermit drives a trolley full of Muppet fun. Naked frogs. Egotistical pigs. Welcome to Hollywood.
Kermit drives a trolley full of Muppet fun. Naked frogs. Egotistical pigs. Welcome to Hollywood.
Miss Piggy gets her own personal section, because she's such a big star.
Miss Piggy gets her own personal section, because she’s such a big star.
Who attending Comic-Con wouldn't love to have Kermit driving them on the San Diego trolley?
Who attending Comic-Con wouldn’t love to have Kermit driving them on the San Diego trolley?
Shops in downtown San Diego have stocked up on superhero gear for coming throngs of pop culture fans and cosplayers.
Shops in downtown San Diego have stocked up on superhero gear for coming throngs of pop culture fans and cosplayers.
Shirt in store window features Darth Vader saying: "Soy tu padre, mijo."
Shirt in store window features Darth Vader saying: “Soy tu padre, mijo.”
Here come Batman, Thor, Wonder Woman and other powerful heroes. Villains in San Diego, beware!
Here come Batman, Thor, Wonder Woman and other powerful heroes. Villains in San Diego, beware!
Trust me. I'm a superhero. The San Diego Trading Company on Fifth Avenue will have lots of Comic-Con deals, so swing on by! The lady at the counter is really nice!
Trust me. I’m a superhero. The San Diego Trading Company on Fifth Avenue will have lots of Comic-Con deals, so swing on by! The lady at the counter is really nice!
Comic-Con Weekend at the Onyx Room is an unofficial party many will attend!
Comic-Con Weekend at the Onyx Room is an unofficial party many will attend!
The House of Blues asks whether you're ready to rock. San Diego will be rocking big time in a couple weeks! I can't wait!
The House of Blues asks whether you’re ready to rock. San Diego will be rocking big time in a couple weeks! I can’t wait!
The Hulk is busting loose! He's coming to San Diego!
The Hulk is busting loose! He’s coming to San Diego!

…

Join me on Facebook or Twitter!

Photos of San Diego library’s Art of Comic-Con exhibit!

People enter the Art of Comic-Con exhibit, opening today at the downtown San Diego Public Library.
People enter the Art of Comic-Con exhibit, opening today at the downtown San Diego Public Library.

Today a very special exhibition opened at the downtown library’s 9th floor gallery. The Art of Comic-Con, developed by Comic-Con International and the San Diego Public Library, contains a huge collection of original artwork used throughout the 45 year history of San Diego Comic-Con.

The exhibition runs through August 30 and should draw a crowd during Comic-Con week. During today’s two hour opening reception, super popular cartoonist Sergio Aragones was on hand to talk with fans and sign copies of his 40th anniversary Comic-Con cover. He was very friendly and spoke with everyone in line for a minute or two, always smiling and laughing and posing for the camera. He’s into his fourth decade of writing and drawing the adventures of the hilarious and very successful Groo the Wanderer!

Here are a bunch of photos! My small camera did its best in the dim light of the gallery…

Someone heading in to check out the gallery is wearing a 1997 Comic-Con International shirt.
Someone heading in to check out the gallery is wearing a 1997 Comic-Con International shirt.
The Art of Comic-Con is a first ever museum exhibition consisting of original artwork used for past conventions.
The Art of Comic-Con is a first ever museum exhibition consisting of original artwork used for past comic conventions.
A cool mural composed of covers from past San Diego Comic-Con programs, plus other affiliated conventions.
A cool mural composed of covers from past San Diego Comic-Con programs, plus other affiliated conventions.
Past souvenir program covers feature many different superheroes and pop culture characters.
Past souvenir program covers feature many different superheroes and pop culture characters.
A riot of fun images dazzled many visitors to the opening of this special exhibit.
A riot of fun images dazzled many visitors to the opening of this special exhibit.
Close photo of part of the Comic-Con program book mural.
Close photo of part of the Comic-Con program book mural.
I see Bart Simpson, a bunch of Marvel heroes, Star Wars characters, Balboa Park and much more.
I see Bart Simpson, a bunch of Marvel heroes, Star Wars characters, Balboa Park and much more.
This part of the exhibit traces the history of the Comic-Con International logo and the development of the popular toucan mascot.
This part of the exhibit traces the history of the Comic-Con International logo and the development of the popular toucan mascot.
Fun artwork that was used during the 40th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con.
Fun artwork that was used during the 40th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con.
The toucan is flapping around anticipating another Comic-Con!
The toucan is flapping around anticipating another Comic-Con!
Someone checks out a display case containing an example of an Inkpot Award. These are presented to outstanding authors, artists and other creative luminaries every year during Comic-Con.
Someone checks out a display case containing an example of an Inkpot Award. These are presented to outstanding authors, artists and other creative luminaries every year during Comic-Con.
I spotted Krypto the Superdog taking a nap among more enthusiastic human Comic-Con fans.
I spotted Krypto the Superdog taking a nap among more enthusiastic human Comic-Con fans.
Visitors check out original comic book art created for Comic-Con souvenir program books over the past 45 years.
Visitors check out original comic book art created for Comic-Con souvenir program books over the past 45 years.
The Art of Comic-Con special exhibit contains original work from more than 60 notable cartoon and comic book artists
The Art of Comic-Con special exhibit contains original work from more than 60 notable cartoon and comic book artists
All kinds of animals hang out in San Diego!
All kinds of animals hang out in San Diego!
Space alien asks Marmaduke for directions to Comics Con. It will be mere blocks from the Central Library! In a few weeks, I expect to see a few aliens walking around San Diego, too!
Space alien asks Marmaduke for directions to Comics Con. It will be mere blocks from the Central Library! In a few weeks, I expect to see a few aliens walking around San Diego, too!
I guess Jimmy Carter was having troubles during a past Comic-Con.
I guess Jimmy Carter was having troubles during a past Comic-Con.
Cartoonists of every stripe have contributed greetings for the Comic-Con souvenir book over the years.
Cartoonists of every stripe have contributed greetings for the Comic-Con souvenir book over the years.
I spotted Conan the Librarian in downtown San Diego's incredible new library!
I spotted Conan the Librarian in downtown San Diego’s incredible new library!
Commander Spock of Vulcan visited Earth back in 1974. Comic-Con then was held in the El Cortez Hotel, a couple blocks from where I'm preparing this blog!
Commander Spock of Vulcan visited Earth back in 1974. Comic-Con then was held in the El Cortez Hotel, a couple blocks from where I’m preparing this blog!
Mickey Mouse headed down to San Diego one year. I'm willing to bet he'll be here again this year!
Mickey Mouse headed down to San Diego one year. I’m willing to bet he’ll be here again this year!
In 1981, Peter Parker lost a game of strip poker with Mary Jane Watson!
In 1981, Peter Parker lost a game of strip poker with Mary Jane Watson!
This guy is probably still looking for the San Diago Convention Center.
This guy is probably still looking for the San Diago Convention Center.
Kid checks out a hands on exhibit showing how comic books are produced and printed.
Kid checks out a hands on exhibit showing how comic books are produced and printed.
A penciled panel featuring Batgirl in action. Part of a cool display which demonstrates the processes involved in creating a comic book.
A penciled panel featuring Batgirl in action. Part of a cool display which demonstrates the processes involved in creating a comic book.
Inked and finished cover of the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book. The art celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Will Eisner's The Spirit, by artist Michael Cho.
Inked and finished cover of the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book. The art celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Will Eisner’s The Spirit, by artist Michael Cho.
Visitors to the San Diego's Art of Comic-Con museum exhibit enjoy a huge mural from a 2008 book cover created by legendary cartoonist Sergio Aragones.
Visitors to the San Diego’s Art of Comic-Con museum exhibit enjoy a huge mural from a 2008 book cover created by legendary cartoonist Sergio Aragones.
Check this out! The mural by Sergio Aragones, of Groo the Wanderer fame, contains hundreds of characters romping about San Diego during Comic-Con!
Check this out! The mural by Sergio Aragones, of Groo the Wanderer fame, contains hundreds of characters romping about San Diego during Comic-Con!
Everyone is heading toward San Diego! I bet they'll crowd into the Gaslamp for an enormous cosplay and pop culture party!
Everyone is heading toward San Diego! I bet they’ll crowd into the Gaslamp for an enormous cosplay and pop culture party!
Gazillions of fans and cosplayers are assembled in front of the San Diego Convention Center!
Gazillions of fans and cosplayers are assembled in front of the San Diego Convention Center!
Superheroes are swinging and flying all over the place!
Superheroes are swinging and flying all over the place!
The silly Sergio Aragones characters have materialized in San Diego from a fertile imagination.
The silly Sergio Aragones characters have materialized in San Diego from a fertile imagination.
One wall in the Central Library museum contained original art used to created past Comic-Con souvenir book covers.
One wall in the Central Library museum contained original art used to create past Comic-Con souvenir book covers.
Artwork used in the 1989 program book cover.
Artwork used for the 1989 program book cover.
1993 cover artwork from the legendary comic book and graphic novel artist Frank Miller.
1993 cover artwork from the legendary comic book and graphic novel artist Frank Miller.
The Justice League flies into action in this original 2011 cover art from fan favorite Jim Lee.
The Justice League flies into action in this original 2011 cover art from fan favorite Jim Lee.
John Romita, Jr. drew Marvel Avengers for the 2012 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book.
John Romita, Jr. drew some of Marvel’s Avengers for the 2012 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book.
Dave McKean cover artwork for 2013 Comic-Con.
Dave McKean cover artwork for 2013 Comic-Con.
Jim Lee drew Superman for this WonderCon program book cover in 2013.
Jim Lee drew Superman for this WonderCon program book cover in 2013.
Cliff Chiang's Wonder Woman graced the cover of WonderCon's program book in 2014.
Cliff Chiang’s Wonder Woman graced the cover of WonderCon’s program book in 2014.
Sergio Aragones signed his covers from the 2008 book Comic-Con 40 Years of Artists, Writers, Fans and Friends. He's a super friendly guy!
Sergio Aragones signed his covers from the 2008 book “Comic-Con 40 Years of Artists, Writers, Fans and Friends”. He’s a super friendly guy!
If you're going to 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, head to the 9th floor of the downtown library. The gallery is up there, along with some great views of the city!
If you’re going to 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, head to the 9th floor of the downtown library. The gallery is up there, along with some great views of the city!

Comic-Con is coming! I’ll be taking lots of pics!

…

Join me on Facebook or Twitter!