As Comic-Con comes to a close, I have to say once again that the thing I enjoy the most about this epic event is the fans.  Sure, it’s great to sit on panels and go to pressrooms to hear directly from the stars and filmmakers as they share what’s coming up on our favorite shows, and yes, it was exciting to see some of the hottest celebrities hanging out at the Wired Café.  But that did not compare to the thrill that I had from walking through the halls of Convention Center and seeing the variety of costumes of the truly dedicated fans.

What really stood out to me was that Comic-Con is a place for everyone, a true melting pot of diversity, attracting both the young and the old of all race and sizes.  It’s a place where families can come and share in the experience together, and not once did a see a hint of judgment.

Newly engaged Jennifer Martin and Matt Atchity

Comic-Con can also be a place for romance.  Just as I was leaving for the airport, I ran into Matt Atchity from Rotten Tomatoes and his new fiancée Jennifer Martin.   Matt had worked with a friend from Hasbro and slipped an engagement ring into a classic Boba Fett action figure.  The next day, when Jennifer came to town, he took her to the Hasbro booth and popped the question!

I have heard on more than one occasion that “Hollywood” has ruined Comic-Con.  This is only my second year at the event, and it’s impossible not to notice all of the product placement blanketing downtown San Diego, but I will go out on a limb and say that the fans will not let the event become a pure marketing tool.

And so this blog is dedicated to the fans. Here’s some of my favorite costumes from this year:

- Michelle Bryant