The Pros of Missing Comic-Con

Right now, the eyes of the entertainment world are all squarely on Southern California, and it’s not because of the beautiful weather or the beautiful people. The 32^nd annual San Diego Comic-Con International, one of the world’s biggest celebrations of entertainment and pop culture, opened on July 12. Movie, television, and comic fans have travelled from around the globe to take in the action firsthand and get the latest news on their favorite entertainment properties.

With so many panels and events covering so many beloved franchises, it’s easy for those who are not in San Diego to be jealous of those who made it out. It’s only natural that you’d want to be there in person to experience the big reveals and see the latest video of the things you already love, and the upcoming things you’re excited about.

Don’t get too jealous, though, because while Comic-Con may be informative and exciting, it also has its downsides.

1. The Waiting Game – Want to get a seat to see one of the big panels like Twilight or Django Unchained? Hope you’re ready to invest hours of your day waiting in lines not doing anything else. Some people have been camped out over a week to get into these panels, and Django Unchained press agents are telling everyone to show up three hours before the panel begins if they want the chance to get in.

2. The Cost – Unless you’re lucky enough to already live in the San Diego area, the trip is going to cost you. You’ll have to pay for travel, transportation, lodging, and food, not to mention the badge to get in. And since you’re already there, it would be a shame to not pick up one of the many Comic-Con exclusive pieces of merchandise, which range from toys to statues to posters, which will also set you back a pretty penny.

3. Everything Ends Up Online Anyway – Every major media outlet and industry blog has someone in attendance running around, taking photos, and filing reports. The second something happens it’s tweeted about. Due to poor Internet connectivity at the Con, being at home actually makes it easier to follow the latest news. If you go, you’re really just paying to get the information 30 seconds before the rest of the world does.

Get a comfy chair, load up your blog of choice, and watch the information roll in. You may not get to experience it firsthand, but you’re also not spending an entire paycheck waiting in line and hoping for the best.