Don't miss Comic-Con in Mission Viejo this weekend
The Mission Viejo Library is gearing up to host its inaugural Comic-Con from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 14.
This fun-filled day features a bevy of events along with crafts, trivia games, book talks, costume story times, food trucks and more. The event will boast a panel of writers and animators showcasing their careers and inspirations for their work.
Special guests include comic writing legend Marv Wolfman, best known for his run on the "Teen Titans" comic and the DC universe altering series "Crisis on Infinite Earths." Kim Dwinell, a graphic novelist and animator who recently released her first book "Surfside Girls: The Secret of Danger Point," will discuss her work and inspiration.
Other bestselling authors lined up for the day include D.J. MacHale, Neal Shusterman, Alexandra Monir and Gina Damico. They all pen genre fiction for teens and will discuss their books, inspirations and writing.
In one of the more innovative panel talks at Comic-Con, creator Brian Haberlin will talk about new technology used with comic books. His work, "Anomaly: The Rubicon," has many augmented reality, or AR, elements integrated in the book. Brian will demonstrate how this works and enhances the storytelling experience.
If you like animation, you'll enjoy hearing from professionals in the animation field. Victor Cook, a TV animation director and producer, will discuss his new Netflix show "Stretch Armstrong and the Flex Fighters" and reminisce about his work on the show "The Spectacular Spider-Man."
Anime enthusiasts will savor screenings throughout the day in the City Council Chamber including classics like "Speed Racer" and "Fruits Basket" along with newer shows such as "URAHARA" and "Orange." The screenings will end at 3 p.m. with the award-winning animated feature movie "Your name" by Makoto Shinkai.
The library's Heritage Room will be transformed into a game room with Dungeons and Dragons and card and board games for people of all ages. Local game company Cryptozoic will demonstrate games throughout the day.
Local comic book shop Nuclear Comics and bookseller Mysterious Galaxy will have scads of books to peruse and purchase in the Artist Alley in the Kershaw Garden. You can also check out and buy work from many independent publishers and local artists.
If you're into cosplay, bring your camera for photo opportunities with folks from the local chapters of the 501st and Rebel Legion dressed in Star Wars garb. Kids will have fun making superhero-themed crafts in the children's library.
The day will culminate with a Cosplay Masquerade in the City Council Chamber starting at 5:30 p.m. Contestants in the Masquerade will be divided into two groups - children and teen/adult.