Montreal Comiccon preview : 10 Reasons to Attend

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The Montreal Comiccon will take place at the Palais des Congrès, from July 3 to July 5. Our very own annual convention has grown quite a lot in recent years, and there’s something for everyone, whatever your interests are. Here at Montreal Rampage we’re all pumped for the event, so we offer you ten reasons why this is a must attend event.

1. Comic book artists

I mean, this is called COMIC Con, right? Celebrity guests may take the spotlight, but comics still occupy a large part of the con. This year, the legendary Neal Adams, whose Batman drawings are iconic, will be attending; bring loads of cash if you hope to purchase a drawing (hint: his website has an “under 500$” section). Other notable artists: Geof Isherwood , Jae Lee, Kevin McGuire, Mike Zeck, Yanick Paquette and Aislin. Tons of local talent will also be in attendance, ready to meet fans. A fantastic opportunity for all. There will also be retailers for anyone looking to add that elusive issue to their collection.

2. Doctor Who guests

Billie Piper, who played companion Rose Tyler, Karen Gillan, who played Amy Pond and Caitlin Blackwood (young Amy) will be joined by John Barrowman and and Eve Myles from Doctor Who spin off Torchwood. In addition to being available for autographs and photo ops, there will be a special event called “An Evening with Doctor Who Companions (Who needs the Doctor?)” Note that this event requires a separate ticket to attend.

3. Horror content

What would Comiccon be without some horror guests? This year, attendees can meet actors Doug Bradley (Pinhead from Hellraiser), Kane Hodder (Jason from multiple Friday the 13th), with Michael Rooker and Scott Wilson from The Walking Dead in this category too. Great photo ops too, although I don’t think Bradley will be wearing the nails.

4. Kevin Smith Event

On Friday, director Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy) will hold one of his “An Evening with Kevin Smith” events, an interactive session where fans will have a chance to hear him tell stories, and ask him questions. Smith is always interesting to hear, and if you’re a fan of any of his movies, this is a can’t miss opportunity.

5. Final Fantasy concert

Relive the wonderful music of the Final Fantasy video game series with “A New World: intimate music from FINAL FANTASY” concert. The programs feature string quartets, piano and guitar solos, duos, trios and other mixed groups of instrumentalists to present FINAL FANTASY musical themes, characters and settings. Two concerts will take place on Friday, and require tickets.

6. Cosplay

One of the greatest things about Comiccon is the sheer creativity of some of the attendees who come in with elaborate costumes. Just people watching could be a good enough reason to attend the convention. Costume competitions will be held, and professional cosplayers will be in attendance and will meet fans.

7. Celebrities

Lots and lots of celebrities in attendance. They’ll do Q&A sessions, sign autographs and take pictures (fees are charged for the latter two). Although there may not be a guest of the stature of Patrick Stewart (last year’s guest of honour), Ron Perlman (Beauty & the Beast, Hellboy and Sons of Anarchy), Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones), Jason Momoa (Conan, Game of Thrones, Aquaman), Mitch Pillegi (X-Files, Sons of Anarchy), Garrett Wang (Star Trek Voyager), Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad) and many, many more will be there. See the complete list of guests here.

8. Wrestlers

Montreal loves wrestling, and every year some of the greatest stars of the squared circle show up to meet their fans. This year former champion Ron Simmons and Animal of the legendary Road Warriors will be there.

9. Merchandise

One thing you can do at Comiccon is spend money. LOTS of money. Merchants selling comic books (from cutout bins to vintage rarities worth thousands), figures, apparel… you’ll find the perfect gift “from you to you” or for those you hold dear.

10. The atmosphere

Any fans of comics and pop culture will find tons of like-minded individuals at Comiccon. There’s a camaraderie and sense of respect that’s pretty unique. People will start conversations with strangers (how often do you see that these days?) based on shared appreciation for a show or movie, and there’s a sense of common purpose that’s prevalent everywhere. If you’ve never attended Comiccon, well, what are you waiting for?

For more info and tickets, go to www.montrealcomiccon.com