Forget Groot – how about I am worn out after attending the 2017 Motor City Comic Con in Novi. Unfolding at the Suburban Collection Showplace, this annual event features more than 250 comic book artists and writers, more than 50 actors from fan favorite movies and TV shows, and vendors offering a million-plus comics, toys collectible items and gear, crafts and gaming products. This comic con is the second largest in the nation behind San Diego.
Luckily, son and I attended on Saturday, the only nice day weather wise for this three day event. Our 50 minute wait in line was no bother as both of us are people watchers – especially when the majority are dressed up as their favorite character or participating in cosplay. For those non-nerds out there, cosplay is the practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game. A few examples…
Thousands of fans poured into the exhibition center. About 50,000 people were expected over the three day event. Son was absolutely thrilled – his main goal being taking as many pictures as possible with his favorite super heroes.
Let’s see. How can I describe the vibe at this event as I watch the hundreds pass by and try to read the looks on their faces and body language…
Gleeful: First time at Comic Con; Wearing a kick ass costume; Being a young child and seeing your super hero live
Awestruck: Meeting Michael Rooker aka Yondu (Guardians of the Galaxy) and Merle (Walking Dead) in person. Now that line was loooooong.
Frantic: Lost a child; Having to wait in line at restroom; Realizing that you need a ticket to stand in line to meet Lou Ferrigno
Frustrated: Crowd; High prices for picture/autograph; Upset that your tight Harley Quinn costume isn’t getting the attention that it deserves
Chill: Me enjoying my day with son. Oh and the 20 guys walking around dressed as Negan carrying barbed wire bats.
I refuse to pay for someone’s autograph and/or picture. Prices range from $50 to $100 for each one. So tacky as it may seem, I take pictures from outside the waiting area which makes for some not so good pictures. But here goes…
I find it sad when actors have a few or no fans in their lines. Kristy Swanson, James Remar, and the great Mena Suvari from “American Beauty” had no one every time we passed by. They just sat there texting or talking with their reps. Guess I shouldn’t feel too bad. They seem to have done ok for themselves.
I found it fascinating that Barbara Eden was there. She’s 85 and still kicking it. And I was happy that she had a few fans in line. Also there – Sean Astin (Hobbit); Rob Schneider (Water Boy), and Dennis Rodman, to name a few. Couldn’t even get near Rodman’s line. He’s an odd dude plus an ex-Piston so I can see the attraction in the Detroit area.
We spent about 3 hours there which was enough. Saw everything that we needed to see, and son accomplished his picture taking goals. Stepped outside to some fresh air, space and sunshine. And a line of fans and cosplay wrapped around the building just like when we arrived. We’ll be back – a little smarter and ready for the crowds.
Have a great week and thanks for stopping by! I’ll leave you with my favorite part of Motor City Comic Con…
Kicking and Screaming... 