San Diego Comic-Con International is in the books. The weeklong extravaganza of for all things comic book culture has become the signature event in the industry. The world now watches to get a glimpse of what to expect from movie studios, production companies, publishing houses and many more. As they all descend upon San-Diego like a political convention to show wares, obtain the approval of the devout and outdo the competition. So, what were some of the highlights and hottest moments for 2016? Read on through to find out.
Netflix
Netflix partnered with Marvel a couple of years ago. Tiptoeing their platform into the comic book genre and they have experienced early success with shows like Dare Devil and Jessica Jones. Their vision – to expand the Marvel universe on the Netflix platform with an aim to creating an Avengers like ensemble in the form of The Defenders. This year they showed they are several steps closer to realizing that vision. Announcing a third season for Dare Devil and dropping trailers for Luke Cage, Iron Fist and a teaser for The Defenders. If the new shows are anything like the trailers below – then binge baby…binge.
DC Comics
OK, its no secret that Batman V. Superman, was a less than stellar start for the DC Entertainment Universe aka DCEU. Yet, if this year’s offerings from are any indication we are all in store for some really solid and entertaining films. DC brought to Hall H a sneak peak at Justice League, it certainly has a lighter tone and the initial footage seems like superhero meets Ocean’s 11. Add to that a kick-ass Aquaman, and Justice League seems promising. The custom made Suicide Squad trailer has us salivating for the actual film already people. Yet, perhaps the biggest surprise – the first look at the stand-alone Wonder Woman film. A rare instance where DC has beat Marvel to the punch. The retro tone, similar to that employed in Captain America: The First Avenger, coupled with giving Diana Prince very Game of Thrones look and feel (with battle moves included) and the perfect Gal Gadot. Well, we think they might have overcome any initial audience hesitation.
Marvel
Marvel made less of a home run statement this year. They introduced some new logos for the company as well as the upcoming Black Panther and Thor: Ragnorock films, as well as an additional trailer for Dr. Strange and a teaser for Thor. Perhaps the biggest reveals were the introduction of Oscar winner Brie Larson as the star of their first female led superhero film – Captain Marvel. However, in our opinion perhaps the most exciting development was that Ghost Rider will be making his way to Agents of Shield. We ain’t talking Nic Cage’s Johnny Blaze, were finally going to get to see Robby Reyes rock the fiery chains.
Kong: Skull Island
It’s not pure comic book fare, but Warner Bros. hit Hall H this year to show new footage from their upcoming Kong: Skull Island. Have to say, it looks pretty impressive. Some of the reveals had an Independence Day vibe. It stars Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston and Samuel Jackson so their is no shortage of acting chops on screen. The folks that made Godzilla are behind this Kong outing, this maybe a geek pipe dream but here’s hoping their making their way to Godzilla v. Kong flick!!!
In Closing
One noteworthy omission at this year’s proceedings was no new footage from the Star Wars universe. With Episode VIII and Rogue One filming wrapped, one would have thought a teaser or two would have made its way to San Diego. Yet other than introduction of a new alien, nothing earth shattering occurred. So the clear winner this year was DC. Yet, as they say in sports, the team may look good on paper, but they still have to go out and perform. If Suicide Squad, Wonder Woman and Justice League can do just that, DC may be back in the game.