This month’s San Diego Comic-Con is anticipated to be a more subdued event than previous years, as major Hollywood studios have decided to scale back on their participation. Only a select few film and TV projects will be showcasing their talents at the convention, such as Paramount’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and Starz’s “John Wick” prequel series, “The Continental.” These decisions come amidst ongoing writers’ and potential actors’ strikes, as well as financial struggles in the entertainment industry.
One notable absence this year is Marvel Studios, who have stated that they will not attend unless they have significant new material to share. With several of their projects on hold due to the writers’ strike, Marvel has chosen to sit out this year’s event. DC’s film division will also be absent, as the studio undergoes a rebuilding phase under new studio bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran.
While the absence of these major players may be disappointing to some, it is important to note that the majority of Comic-Con attendees do not attend solely for the big Hall H panels. Hall H, which can hold up to 6,500 people, is just a fraction of the estimated 160,000 attendees each year. This year’s Comic-Con may hark back to its roots as a niche event for comic book fans and collectors, as it will focus more on smaller panels and discussions.
The convention will kick off on Thursday with panels such as “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” “Project K,” “What We Do in the Shadows,” “Archer,” and “Twisted Metal,” which will feature actor Anthony Mackie. On Friday, attendees can expect panels on “Tiny Toons Looniversity,” “My Adventures With Superman,” and a discussion on directing with filmmakers like David Leitch and Gareth Edwards.
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Saturday’s highlights include an appearance from Legendary Entertainment, though details are yet to be announced. There will also be a panel for the 25th anniversary of “That ’70s Show,” a look at Hulu’s “Futurama” reboot, and a discussion on William Shatner’s career, hosted by the actor himself.
While the Hollywood studios may be taking a step back this year, there is still plenty to look forward to at San Diego Comic-Con. Attendees will have the opportunity to get a sneak peek at upcoming projects, engage in conversations with filmmakers and actors, and celebrate the anniversaries of beloved shows like “That ’70s Show” and “Futurama.” Comic-Con remains a place where fans can come together to celebrate their love for all things film and TV, and this year’s event promises to be no exception.
