THE NBCU CORNER @SDCC
NBCUniversal is set to take over Gaslamp Plaza with the NBCU Corner @ SDCC, featuring content from entertainment television and streaming platforms NBC, Peacock, SYFY, and USA Network. The immersive fan hub is a space where attendees can relax and recharge in-between panels with fun photo moments from new and returning NBCU shows, view custom NBCU content from the shaded viewing lawn and be rewarded with exclusive surprise giveaways throughout the weekend.
Shows highlighted at the NBCU Corner @ SDCC include NBC’s “Quantum Leap” and “La Brea,” USA Network and SYFY’s “Chucky,” SYFY’s “Resident Alien,” “Reginald the Vampire,” Peacock’s “Vampire Academy,” “The End is Nye” and “The Resort.”
Location: Gaslamp Plaza & Tin Fish Restaurant Adjacent
Date: Thursday, July 21-Sunday, July 24
Time: 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
SYFY/USA NETWORK/PEACOCK PANEL LINE-UP:
Thursday, July 21
2:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.: Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Indigo Ballroom
Comic-Con: A Glimpse Into the World of Peacock Original Supernatural YA Drama Series “Vampire Academy”
Showrunners and executive producers Julie Plec (“The Vampire Diaries,” “The Originals,” “Legacies”) and Marguerite MacIntyre (“The Originals,” “Legacies”) will join series regulars Sisi Stringer (Rose Hathaway), Daniela Nieves (Lissa Dragomir), Kieron Moore (Dimitri Belikov) and Andre Dae Kim (Christian Ozera) to discuss Peacock’s highly anticipated “Vampire Academy,” based on the international bestselling book series — a story of friendship, romance and danger. In a world of privilege and glamour, two young women’s friendship transcends their strikingly different classes as they prepare to complete their education and enter vampire society. One as a powerful Royal, the other a half-vampire Guardian trained to protect against the savage Strigoi who threaten to tear their society apart. That is if Royal infighting doesn’t do the job first. Cast will partake in a Q&A live panel and give an exclusive first look moderated by Entertainment Weekly’s Sydney Bucksbaum. The series is from Universal Television and will premiere on Peacock Sept. 15.
Saturday, July 23
3-4 p.m.: Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Indigo Ballroom
Unlikely Hero, Unrecognized Powers: “Reginald the Vampire”
Featuring an exclusive first look at the new SYFY series coming this October as well as a thirst-quenching discussion with stars Jacob Batalon, Mandela Van Peebles, Em Haine and Savannah Basley, showrunner Harley Petyon, and executive producers Jeremiah Chechik and Lindsay Macadam. Moderated by “Fat Vampire” author Johnny B. Truant, which the series is based on.
4:15-5 p.m. in Room 6A
“The End is Nye”
Bill Nye the Science Guy is back and hosting an all-new science disaster series “The End is Nye” with co-creators Seth MacFarlane and Brannon Braga. Each episode of the Peacock series explores an epic global disaster with engaging VFX spectacles, then demystifies them using science to show how we can survive, mitigate, and even prevent them. Sprinkled with MacFarlane’s signature humor, this extremely timely series explores end-of-the-world scenarios with Nye at the center of it all. Join executive producer Bill Nye, showrunner/EP Brannon Braga (“Star Trek,” “The Orville,” “Books of Blood”) and executive producer Erica Huggins (President, Fuzzy Door) as they debut the official trailer and share an exclusive sneak peek at their new Peacock series from Universal Television Alternative Studio and UCP. “The End is Nye” will premiere on Peacock Aug. 25.
4:15-5:15 p.m.: Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Indigo Ballroom
SYFY’s “Resident Alien” Invades Your Con
The cast of “Resident Alien” — Alan Tudyk, Sara Tomko, Corey Reynolds, Alice Wetterlund, Levi Fiehler, Elizabeth Bowen and Judah Prehn – as well as executive producer/showrunner Chris Sheridan, come together for the first time on the same stage to answer your burning questions and give you an out-of-this-world exclusive look into the season two return on Aug. 10 on SYFY. Moderated by “Ancient Aliens” star and co-executive producer (and “Resident Alien” guest star) Giorgio A. Tsoukalos. The series is from UCP.
5:30-6:30 p.m.: Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Indigo Ballroom
World Premiere of Peacock and UCP’s “The Resort”
Join creator Andy Siara (“Palm Springs”) and castmates William Jackson Harper (“The Good Place,” “The Underground Railroad”), Cristin Milioti (“Palm Springs,” “Made for Love”), Nina Bloomgarden (“Hot Pink”), and Luis Gerardo Méndez (“Narcos: Mexico”) for a special screening and conversation as they premiere the highly anticipated mystery thriller “The Resort.” “The Resort” is a multi-generational coming-of-age love story disguised as a fast-paced mystery about the disappointment of time. An anniversary trip puts a marriage to the test when the couple finds themselves embroiled in one of the Yucatan’s most bizarre unsolved mysteries that took place fifteen years prior. The series from UCP will premiere July 28 on Peacock.
6:45-7:45 p.m.: Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Indigo Ballroom
Back with a Vengeance: “Chucky”
He’s your friend ‘till the very end! Join “Chucky” creator/executive producer Don Mancini and surprise guests for a can’t-miss conversation moderated by TV Guide Magazine’s Damian Holbrook and a behind-the-scenes look at season two returning this October on USA Network & SYFY. The hit series is from UCP.
COZI TV ‘ICONIC CHARACTERS’ EXPERIENCE
Thursday, July 21-Sunday, July 24: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on the MLK Promenade (behind the Omni Hotel)
Comic-Con attendees can visit many of TV’s most iconic characters with COZI TV’s Iconic Characters exhibit. The exhibit will be highlighted by a genuine 1962 AMC Rambler American 400, just like the red convertible featured in the Emmy-winning “3rd Rock from the Sun,” and an appearance on Friday, July 22 by actor and comedian French Stewart, who played the character Harry Solomon on the hit comedy. Eligible fans will be able to enter for a chance to win the fully restored classic car through the COZI TV 3rd Rock Rambler Sweepstakes, which anyone is available to enter at COZITV.com now through Aug. 31. COZI TV, NBCUniversal Local’s national multicast network that delivers the all-time best shows and pop culture favorites such as “The Munsters,” “The Nanny” and “Roseanne.”
“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
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