Blizzard Entertainment makes its return to Comic-Con® International: San Diego this July 18–22 with a full lineup highlighted by panel opportunities, event-exclusive items, talent signings, product news, and more. Featured this year are the company’s acclaimed Overwatch®, StarCraft®, World of Warcraft®, and Hearthstone® franchises as well as various activities from its Blizzard Publishing book label.
BLIZZARD’S SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS
Panels:
Behind the Cards: The Art of Blizzard’s Hearthstone, Thursday July 19, 12:00pm–1:00pm Room 5AB
Ben Thompson (art director), Hadidjah Chamberlain (senior FX artist), Jomaro Kindred (senior concept artist), and Matt Dixon (illustrator) offer a deep dive into the world of card creation for Blizzard Entertainment’s hit digital card game Hearthstone. Surprise and delight await as panelists walk attendees through the development of cards from the upcoming expansion, The Boomsday Project™, from initial concept sketches to final card art.
Behind the Scenes of Overwatch’s Newest Hero, Friday July 20, 3:15pm–4:15pm Room 6BCF
Overwatch developers Michael Chu (lead writer), Arnold Tsang (assistant art director), Geoff Goodman (lead hero designer), and Geoffrey Garnett (senior sound designer) present a behind-the-scenes look into the creative process of developing the story, art, and gameplay kit for Overwatch’s newest hero, Wrecking Ball. Learn more about Overwatch hero design and participate in Q&A with the developers after the panel.
Chapters and Panels: Blizzard Publishing, Saturday July 21, 3:30pm–4:30pm Room 5AB
See how Blizzard’s many worlds are crafted into compelling art and narrative through an array of books and comics. Some of the industry’s top authors discuss how they bring to life engaging stories that expand and widen the universes of Blizzard’s games through the perspectives of some of gaming’s most unique characters. Panelists will highlight recent releases, hint at what may be yet to come, and perhaps unveil a surprise or two. Moderated by Blizzard Publishing senior editor Cate Gary. Panelists include Christie Golden, Jody Houser, Mark Evanier, and Steve Danuser.
Blizzard Featured Items July 18–22:
Attendees will be able to purchase the following items from the Blizzard Entertainment Booth #140
Cute But Deadly: D.Va with MEKA
Cute But Deadly: Banshee Sylvanas and Holy Light Anduin 2-Pack
Overwatch: Goldimari Mini Plush
Cute But Deadly: Twilight Orisa
Funko POP! Vinyl: Roadhog & Junkrat 2-Pack
Overwatch Blizzard World fine art
Blizzard Licensed Partner Exclusives (available for purchase):
Grillmaster 76 SDCC Exclusive Funko, July 18–22 Funko POP! Booth #5341
New StarCraft Comic #1 Exclusive SDCC cover, July 18–22 Dark Horse Booth #2615
Overwatch X Tokidoki The Heroes Collection Launch (brand-new release available for purchase):
Overwatch X Tokidoki The Heroes Collection, July 18–22 Tokidoki Booth #5037 & Blizzard Booth #140
Blizzard Booth Activations:
Tokidoki Signing, July 21 2:00pm–4:00pm Blizzard Booth #140
Attendees will have the chance for a signature from Simone Legno, founder of Tokidoki
Signing is limited, wristband distribution will be Saturday morning at the Blizzard Booth
Christie Golden Signing July 21 5:00pm–6:30pm Blizzard Booth #140
Writer of the New York Times bestselling World of Warcraft novel Before the Storm
Overwatch Activations:
Overwatch Payload Tour, July 18-22 Omni Hotel Floor 4 Grand Ballroom
Choose from a selection of Overwatch weapons (Henchmen Studios-created props)
Step onto the 360-degree rotating stage, where you’ll be transported into an Overwatch map
Share a video of the experience with friends and the Overwatch community
Every participant will receive an exclusive Overwatch pin
GameStop Grillmaster 76 Cosplayer Photo Op from Henchmen Studios, July 20 SDCC Show Floor
Find the Grillmaster 76 Cosplayer on the show floor for a unique photo-op!
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Blizzard Entertainment’s expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including statements about content and activities at San Diego Comic-Con, are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause Blizzard Entertainment’s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include unanticipated product delays and other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Blizzard Entertainment and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Blizzard Entertainment nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Blizzard Entertainment or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.
The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.
The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.
“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.
Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.
A Year Without a Santa Claus, the 1974 stop-motion holiday classic produced by Rankin/Bass, is a heartwarming and whimsical tale that has cemented its place in holiday traditions. Based on Phyllis McGinley’s 1956 book, the story revolves around a disheartened Santa Claus who, feeling unappreciated, decides to take a year off from his Christmas duties. It’s up to Mrs. Claus and a pair of well-meaning elves, Jingle and Jangle, to reignite the Christmas spirit and show Santa the world’s unwavering belief in him.
The movie is beloved for its unforgettable characters, especially the bickering Miser Brothers, Snow Miser and Heat Miser. Their catchy, vaudeville-style musical numbers, “Snow Miser Song” and “Heat Miser Song”, are so iconic they’ve become cultural touchstones, often parodied and celebrated decades later.
Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the film continues the duo’s tradition of stop-motion magic, blending heartfelt storytelling with quirky humor. The voice cast, featuring Mickey Rooney as Santa and Shirley Booth as Mrs. Claus, delivers standout performances. Booth’s warm narration was her final acting role before retirement, adding a layer of poignancy to the film.
Initially released on December 10, 1974, on ABC, the special didn’t immediately achieve the legendary status of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. However, it gained a dedicated following through annual holiday airings, nostalgic appeal, and its distinct charm.
The film’s themes of hope, unity, and rekindling joy remain timeless, making it a perennial favorite for audiences of all ages. Its blend of humor, catchy songs, and a touching message about believing in magic and goodwill ensures its enduring legacy during the holiday season.
For fans of holiday classics, A Year Without a Santa Claus is a must-watch that never fails to warm hearts and spread cheer.
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus
Review: Pushpa: The Rise (2021)
KGF: Chapter 2
Kyle Gallner May I?
A Review of Krampus: A Horror Fan’s Ultimate Christmas Treat
SDAFF 2024 presents ‘Dead Talents Society’: I hate this world!
Review of Black and White Spoon on Netflix
Y2K: Get up and Break Stuff!
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
