SDCC 2023: Embracing the Spirit of Fandom Amidst the Strike
In what may be considered an unconventional year, the spirit of fandom prevailed at the 2023 San Diego Comic-Con. Despite the absence of A-list celebrities and major studio presentations due to the ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, dedicated fans, cosplayers, and industry professionals came together to celebrate their shared passion for comics, video games, and all things geek.
A Quieter Convention, But Not Without Highlights
As the strikes took center stage, the typical glitz and glamour of the convention were noticeably dimmed. Major studios like Marvel, HBO, Sony, Universal, and Netflix decided to skip the event entirely, leading to a scaled-down version of SDCC. Nevertheless, a few panels and screenings persevered, albeit without the star power fans have come to expect.
Marvel Studios, known for its grand Hall H presentations, chose not to attend Comic-Con this year. Instead, they released a trailer for their upcoming film "The Marvels" online, featuring Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, and Iman Vellani. Other companies faced similar challenges, and some planned panels were canceled after the strike commenced.
Cosplay and Fandom Flourished
While celebrity appearances were sparse, the true heart of Comic-Con, the fans, took the spotlight. Cosplayers showcased their creativity, with an abundance of Barbie and Ken outfits inspired by the forthcoming Barbie movie. Classic characters like Deadpool, Mandalorian, and Spider-Man also made frequent appearances, sparking joyful interactions among fans.
The celebration of comics and video games thrived during the convention. Panels featuring upcoming games, such as "Marvel's Spider-Man 2," drew enthusiastic crowds. Attendees packed Hall H to hear from renowned comic writer Justin Kirkman, a testament to the enduring appeal of the medium.
A Unified Front in Support of the Strike
The impact of the strikes was palpable throughout the convention. Panelists expressed solidarity with their fellow actors and writers, voicing their support for the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA. Many participants, like video game actor Yuri Lowenthal, took the opportunity to advocate for fair treatment and better working conditions.
Outside the convention center, a rally of actors, cosplayers, and U.S. Rep Robert Garcia stood united, amplifying the striking workers' cause. In a packed panel, SAG-AFTRA executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland joined voice actors to discuss the strike and the potential threats posed by exploitative artificial intelligence.
The Resilience of Comic-Con's Spirit
Despite the absence of major stars and lavish presentations, the fans' response to this year's Comic-Con was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees embraced the true essence of the convention, celebrating their shared passions and supporting the industry's labor movements. Voice actress Linsay Rousseau summed it up perfectly, acknowledging the absence of big celebrities but expressing gratitude for the unwavering dedication of the fans.
As the event concluded, it was evident that Comic-Con 2023 showcased the resilience of the fandom and the unwavering support for fair labor practices within the entertainment industry. While the strike cast a shadow over the usual festivities, it also illuminated the true heart of Comic-Con – a community of devoted fans who find joy in coming together, regardless of star power or glitzy presentations.