Cartoon Network is bringing an out-of-this-world fan experience at Comic-Con (July 19-22) with an overall immersive Steven Universe experience, an homage to Adventure Time, along with additional signings, panels, and exclusive product offerings.
Inspired by the illustrious mythology of Steven Universe, this year’s booth (#3735) will greet fans with large, iconic figures of the Crystal Gems above a crystal landscape. A screen embedded in the crystal will show what’s waiting inside – the chance to be in an epic parallax scene with their favorite characters!
Kicking off Thursday, July 19, Grammy winner and voice of Steven Universe’s Garnet, Estelle, joins show creator Rebecca Sugar and her friends from the Dove Self-Esteem Project for a conversation about the importance of inclusion and body positivity that the series has been so celebrated for.
Adventure Time fans can grab their friends and gear up for the Ultimate Adventure Friday, July 20 as the cast and crew come together in the Indigo Ballroom for its final panel. Come along and celebrate Cartoon Network’s longest-running series with live music, special guests, and a few mathematical surprises.
On Saturday, July 21, meet back in the Indigo Ballroom for Cartoon Network’s official Steven Universe panel, complete with musical performances, never-before-seen clips and appearances from your favorite Gems! Cartoon Network is also bringing together its hottest new creators for its inaugural Drawing on Inspiration panel, featuring creators from OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes, Craig of the Creek, We Bare Bears, Summer Camp Island and Victor and Valentino. Exclusive signing posters will be available at each panel’s respective signings. Capping off the weekend is the return of Cartoon Network’s annual Best Summer Ever Costume Ball where kids of all ages will have a chance to dress up as their favorite show character. Other series featured at San Diego Comic-Con include Unikitty! and DC Super Hero Girls.
Cartoon Network has partnered with key licensees to offer attendees official SDCC-exclusive consumer products featuring characters from beloved franchises Steven Universe, Adventure Time and The Powerpuff Girls.
Below is a list of all panels, fan events, screenings, signings and exclusive product offered Thursday, July 19 – Sunday, July 22. Events, as well as series producers and talent scheduled to appear, are subject to change.
Cartoon Network Panels
THURSDAY, JULY 19
SUPERHEROES OF BODY POSITIVITY: A CONVERSATION WITH STEVEN UNIVERSE’S REBECCA SUGAR AND FRIENDS
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Horton Grand Theatre
Calling all Crystal Gems! The Dove Self-Esteem Project and Cartoon Network’s Steven Universe have partnered to educate young people on body confidence through the Emmy®-nominated hit series’ celebrated themes of inclusion and empowerment. Join Steven Universe creator Rebecca Sugar and experts from the Dove Self-Esteem Project for a conversation on the importance of body positivity in both the real and animated world.
FRIDAY, JULY 20
ADVENTURE TIME
10 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. | Hilton Bayfront Indigo Ballroom
Cartoon Network invites you to come along with us to celebrate 10 seasons of this most mathematical show! We don’t want to spoil too many of the surprises but, we can promise you a live musical performance featuring some of your favorite tracks from the series along with special guests and an exclusive series finale trailer! Grab your homies and don’t miss this epic celebration before The Ultimate Adventure.
SATURDAY, JULY 21
STEVEN UNIVERSE
10 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. | Hilton Bayfront Indigo Ballroom
Did you hear that Cartoon Network is bringing Steven Universe back to Comic-Con? You’d better believe it! Estelle (Garnet), Michaela Dietz (Amethyst), Deedee Magno Hall (Pearl), Zach Callison (Steven), and the true Diamond Authority, series creator Rebecca Sugar will share insights about the show, epic announcements and we’re pretty sure Rebecca is bringing her ukulele. Our future-vision tells us this is a panel you won’t want to miss!
CARTOON NETWORK CREATORS: DRAWING ON INSPIRATION
2 p.m. – 3 p.m. | Room 25ABC
Meet the creators of Cartoon Network’s most beloved and exciting new shows! This talented group of creative leaders will share why they were inspired to get into animation, highlights of their paths to becoming show runners and insights on what it takes to bring stories to life. They’ll also reveal some exciting news about… well, you’ll have to come to find out! Join Matt Burnett and Ben Levin from Craig of the Creek, Daniel Chong from We Bare Bears, Diego Molano from Victor & Valentino and Julia Pott from Summer Camp Island, moderated by Ian Jones-Quartey from OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes.
Cartoon Network Screenings and Special Events
THURSDAY, JULY 19
THE HER UNIVERSE FASHION SHOW: CARTOON NETWORK JUNIOR DESIGNER SHOWCASE
6 p.m. | Manchester Grand Hyatt – Harbor Ballroom
The 5th annual Her Universe Fashion Show is a design competition where 24 designers compete with their original “geek couture” designs for the chance to win the ultimate prize – the opportunity to design a Her Universe fashion collection for Hot Topic. Cartoon Network has sponsored the junior designer contest, where youth ages 5-17 had the opportunity to submit designs inspired by The Powerpuff Girls in celebration of the 20th Anniversary. Four winners were chosen and they will reveal their designs during the Cartoon Network Junior Designer showcase during the Her Universe Fashion Show. Hosted by actress and Her Universe Founder, Ashley Eckstein, the show will once again be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt on Thursday, July 19th. Doors open at 5:15 p.m.
SUNDAY, JULY 22
CARTOON NETWORK BEST SUMMER EVER COSTUME BALL
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Hilton Bayfront Indigo Ballroom
Kids, get ready for the Best Costume Ball Ever! Cartoon Network is throwing the hottest party of the season and we want you to join us. Kick off your flip-flops, ditch the bathing suit and show off your most chill, most creative costumes. Oh, and did we mention guest judges from some of your favorite Cartoon Network shows? We’ll play games, share exclusive never-before-seen clips and hand out some sizzling prizes. Parents, turn up the heat by getting in on the action with a family costume. Make your Best Summer Ever complete with a party you’ll remember all year long!
Exclusive Products
Steven Universe Sketchbook (Insight Editions, Booth #3721)
Let the colorful characters of Steven Universe inspire your creativity with this gorgeous sketchbook. Available as a limited-release early preview at SDCC, the sketchbook features an exclusive foreword from show creator Rebecca Sugar along with whimsical drawings from her and the show’s other artists. This sketchbook invites Steven Universe fans to bring out their inner artist within its blank pages.
Steven Universe Zagwear Exclusive Plush (UCC Distributing, Inc., Booth #5610)
Zagwear is premiering Steven Universe exclusive plushies featuring Lars of the Stars, Yellow Diamond, Blue Diamond, Pink Diamond, Sparkle Cookie Cat, Peridot, Night Lion and Sitting Pink Lion.
Steven Universe Cookie Cat Original Print T-Shirt (For Fans By Fans, Booth #1316)
The adorable Cookie Cat Steven T-Shirt in charcoal by Steven Universe fan and illustrator Shelby Chin is a San Diego Comic Con exclusive available only at For Fans By Fans Booth # 1316. ForFansByFans.com is a community that bridges the gap between fans, artists, and the worlds that inspire them.
Adventure Time 7” Vinyl (Mondo, Booth #435)
Mondo is debuting an SDCC 2018 Adventure Time exclusive vinyl featuring tracks “Friends Don’t Fight” (both with vocals and instrumental) and “Manlorette Party.” The vinyl cover artwork is custom created by artist JJ Harrison and they will be sold at the Mondo booth for $12 +tax. Supply is limited, so make sure to get them before they’re gone!
Adventure Time: Beginning of the End #1 (BOOM! Studios, Booth #2229)
When Finn breaks a promise he can’t remember making, Chronologius Rex, the lord of Hours and All Time, confronts him. Journey with Finn and Jake as they work to save Finn before he is erased from every reality! Honoring the series finale of Cartoon Network’s longest-running series, Adventure Time: Beginning of the End #1 will be sold exclusively at the BOOM! Studios Booth.
Adventure Time Coloring Book (Dark Horse, Booth #2615)
Dark Horse and Cartoon Network are teaming up for a SDCC 2018 exclusive early preview Adventure Time coloring book! Bring Finn and Jake’s adventures to life in this official coloring book, featuring 45 original images by various artists. They are also adding a little color to the lives of Cartoon Network fans with a 59”x59″ coloring wall featuring illustrations from the network’s longest-running series Adventure Time and fan-favorite Steven Universe. Comic-con attendees can stop by their booth starting Thursday to color in the gigantic coloring book pages and get a chance to purchase new products.
The Powerpuff Girls Titan Figures 3-Pack (Titan, Booth #5537)
Titan Entertainment is bringing their first EXCLUSIVE The Powerpuff Girls Glow-in-The-Dark 3″ TITANS three-pack to SDCC 2018! Celebrating 20 years of Cartoon Network’s The Powerpuff Girls, this set features Blossom, Bubbles,
and Buttercup straight outta Townsville – ready for action with super glow-in-the-dark highlights.
Cartoon Network Signings
FRIDAY, JULY 20
ADVENTURE TIME
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. | AA02
INSIGHT EDITIONS STEVEN UNIVERSE DELUXE HARDCOVER BLANK SKETCHBOOK: REBECCA SUGAR EDITION SIGNING WITH REBECCA SUGAR
12 p.m. – 1 p.m. | Insight Editions Booth #3721
SATURDAY, JULY 21
STEVEN UNIVERSE
12:50 – 1:50 p.m. | AA06
CARTOON NETWORK CREATORS: DRAWING ON INSPIRATION
5 p.m. – 6 p.m. | AA06
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Rating: (4/5)
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a visually ambitious sci-fi film featuring an ensemble of Indian cinema legends, including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The film is set in a dystopian future with a storyline that weaves mythology and science fiction, creating a unique cinematic experience for viewers.
The film’s narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where technology and ancient themes intersect. It begins with an immersive setup that introduces us to Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, who grapples with complex moral and existential questions in a world marked by political and ethical turmoil. Although the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially as it establishes the mythological underpinnings, the intensity and scope build significantly as the story progresses.
One of the most captivating aspects is the stunning visual effects. The production team, with a budget reportedly over 400 crore INR, utilized advanced CGI to craft expansive landscapes, dramatic space battles, and futuristic cityscapes that resemble scenes from Hollywood sci-fi giants. The action sequences, particularly those featuring Bachchan, stand out with their thrilling choreography and careful dramatic build-up. These sequences balance between traditional Indian cinema stylings and Hollywood’s polished sci-fi tropes.
While Kalki 2898 AD relies heavily on genre conventions, it manages to bring a fresh twist by blending mythological symbolism with modern sci-fi elements. However, some may find the film’s narrative occasionally predictable, and the focus on visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. Yet, the powerhouse performances from the lead cast, particularly Bachchan and Padukone, provide the emotional depth needed to keep audiences engaged.
In summary, Kalki 2898 AD is an impressive venture into the sci-fi genre for Indian cinema, successfully balancing myth with high-tech fantasy. While not without flaws, it’s an enjoyable and bold cinematic experience that’s worth a watch for fans of both Indian mythology and science fiction.
Gladiator 2 builds on the legacy of its predecessor, delivering a captivating story that honors the original while forging a compelling new path. The cast shines in their roles, with Paul Mescal delivering a powerhouse performance as Lucius, the now-grown son of Maximus. Mescal captures a blend of vulnerability and strength, embodying a character driven by both honor and revenge. Alongside him, Denzel Washington commands the screen, adding gravitas and depth to a key supporting role
The screenplay is a triumph, keeping the audience engaged at every turn. While the overarching story gives you a sense of where it’s headed, the journey remains unpredictable, and packed with twists. The film balances themes of legacy, vengeance, and redemption, weaving them seamlessly into the narrative.
Action sequences, particularly the gladiatorial combat, are visually pleasing. The fights are brutal and visceral, with just enough gore to feel authentic without veering into excess. Visually, Gladiator 2 is stunning. The production design, cinematography, and score come together to create a visceral and immersive experience.
As a follow-up to a beloved classic, Gladiator 2 meets expectations, proving to be both a thrilling spectacle and a worthy successor. It’s a 9/10—a tale of honor and legacy.
Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, the long-awaited cinematic adaptation of the Broadway musical, soars as a dazzling spectacle that captivates audiences with its lush visuals, heartfelt performances, and rich storytelling. The film, the first in a two-part series, delves into the origins of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their unlikely friendship and the events that transform them into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) lead the cast with exceptional performances. Erivo’s powerful vocals and nuanced portrayal of Elphaba’s internal struggles bring depth to the character. Grande, in her most notable film role to date, is both hilarious and heartfelt as Glinda, perfectly capturing her charm and comedic timing. Supporting performances by Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero), Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), and Jeff Goldblum (the Wizard) add layers to the narrative, enriching the world of Oz with compelling subplots.
Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, brings his signature style to Wicked, blending vibrant visuals with emotional resonance. The production design by Nathan Crowley is stunning, vividly rendering Oz with grandeur, from the Emerald City to Shiz University. Paul Tazewell’s costume design is equally striking, updating the Broadway look with cinematic flair. The score, by Stephen Schwartz and John Powell, retains iconic musical numbers like “Defying Gravity” while incorporating new arrangements that heighten their cinematic impact.
Critics have hailed Wicked as one of the best musical-to-film adaptations in decades, rivaling Chicago and Mamma Mia. Chu’s decision to split the adaptation into two parts allows for a deeper exploration of the story, giving audiences time to connect with the characters and their journeys. Fans of the Broadway show will appreciate its faithfulness to the source material, while newcomers will be enchanted by its universal themes of acceptance, ambition, and friendship.
With Wicked, Jon M. Chu has delivered a masterpiece that sets a new standard for musical adaptations. The film is a visual and emotional triumph, showcasing unforgettable performances and a meticulously crafted world. Whether you’re a fan of the original musical or new to the story, Wicked is a must-see cinematic event.
Rating: 3.5/5
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Gladiator 2 Builds On The Legacy Of Its Predecessor,
Wicked Soars As A Dazzling Spectacle
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