October 16, 2015 by Billy Henehan

Diving in the Deep End of Cosplay

Photographs by Graig Kreindler and David Henehan and @dirkmanning. Written by Billy Henehan

My journey into cosplay has been a slow one. My first cosplay was as the 11^th Doctor. Tweed sports jacket, dress shirt, bowtie, suspenders and skinny jeans? No problem. That’s practically what I wear to work on Fridays. This was my regular cosplay for a few conventions. Fans know what you’re doing, but to anyone on the subway, you look like an average 20 or 30 something Brooklynite. How normal does the 11th Doctor outfit look? I interviewed Mike Tyson at NYCC 2014 in it and nobody batted an eye on how I was dressed, except for the one publicist who said I always dress snappy for interviews.

This year though, I wanted more. I wanted to dress up every day of NYCC and I wanted my cosplay to be more than my usual office wear paired with a sonic screwdriver. So I plotted and planned and ordered maybe one too many spandex outfits.

Here’s a big tip for anyone planning to cosplay to NYCC (or any big convention) next year: order far in advance. The companies that specialize in cosplay get hit hard during convention season, and what might be a 3 week turnaround time for them during the winter becomes a 12-16 week wait when SDCC and NYCC are nearing. I found this out the hard way. I ordered a very high quality Spider-Man suit from The RPC Studio. I was psyched for it to arrive. Sadly, NYCC has come and gone and my suit is still being processed. Bummer, I know. But I don’t blame RPC. I should have ordered sooner and not at the edge of their delivery window.

Marty McFly was my Day 1 cosplay for NYCC. This had many benefits: no mask, plenty of pockets, and Pepsi was giving out the very, very limited edition bottle of Pepsi Perfect from Back to the Future 2 to fans dressed as Marty. When I heard this, I was tempted to abandon my other cosplay plans and dress as Marty every day. Okay, not really a big step from the 11^th Doctor. Dressing as Marty McFly gets you zero second looks on the subway.

Dr. McNinja was my Day 2 cosplay. Dr. McNinja is very easy to put together: black pants, lab coat, ninja mask, prop sword – your whole outfit is one reasonably priced Amazon order. I really thought this outfit would get a lot of love. Clearly I have overestimated the size of Dr. McNinja fandom. The people who did recognize my outfit really loved it; one guy gave me a high-five, but I’m guessing more people though, “I don’t know, anime something.” The amazing thing is, when I stopped by Joe Prado’s table in Artist Alley, he immediately said, “What’s up, Billy?” I WAS IN A FULL NINJA MASK. How did he know? “You have very distinct eyes.” Why, thank you, Joe Prado!

It was on the weekend that I went for the deep dive. Thursday and Friday were the training wheel days. Pants with pockets. Outfits that easily helped me blend in with a few minor changes. Not so on Saturday and Sunday. I went double-Deadpool Saturday and Sunday. I really wanted a Deadpool costume, but Deadpool might be the most overplayed cosplay at conventions, so I decided to dress as Deadpool, but not the standard, Rob Liefeld designed outfit. On Saturday, I dressed as Zenpool, Deadpool’s AXIS-shifted peaceful persona. I even took a picture with Zenpool co-creator Gerry Duggan! He seemed psyched that people were dressing as Zenpool.

On Sunday, I wore what ended up being my most popular outfit of the weekend: Green Lantern Deadpool. A LOT of people stopped to take my picture, I think mainly because the Ryan Reynolds line in the trailer for the upcoming Deadpool movie where Deadpool requests that the costume just not be green, an obvious dig at the Green Lantern movie Reynolds starred in. I had that line thrown at me A LOT on Sunday.

It’s funny, this was a total last minute costume and I wasn’t even sure how good the quality would be. I ordered it from a dirt cheap seller somewhere in Asia on eBay. I just needed something to replace the Spider-Man costume that didn’t look like it was arriving on time. The Green Lantern Deadpool people were great. They rushed my order at no charge and I had my costume the Monday before NYCC. I think I ordered it 10 days earlier. The quality was great. The Green Lantern logo is actually sewn on, it’s not a dye sub. And the price couldn’t be beat. The green boots that I ordered off Amazon were the most expensive part of the costume. The major downside of this costume though was having no pockets. I was constantly worried that someone was going to take my wallet and phone from my backpack. Next year, I need to invest in green Deadpool belt.

UPDATE (December 2015): The Spider-Man costume finally arrived and it is AWESOME. The RPC Studio gets my highest possible recommendation! I can’t wait to wear it at SE: NYC 2016!

October 4, 2015 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2015 Saturday Panels – Our Picks!

Written by Nick Doyle and Billy Henehan.

They say if you can survive Saturday at NYCC, you can make it anywhere. There’s a reason why the Saturday tickets sell out before 4-Day Passes sell out and that is because Saturday is the mother of all days at NYCC. Most of the biggest events are happening today. Will you be able to make it all of them? Of course not, not unless you own a Time Turner. There are too many panels to go through on the NYCC site, but you don’t have to wade through them all. Because we have cut through all the mediocre panels to bring you the best of the best. If you have to choose, at least choose from these. Because these are the BEST of the BEST of New York Comic Con Saturday 2015.

Writers Unite: Writing and Pitching Comic Stories – 11:00-12:00 1A01

This seems almost like a sequel to Charles Soule and Marguerite Bennett’s panel together at Special Edition: NYC. That was a great panel; I expect this one to be as well. Writers talking writing. More panels like this please.

Spotlight on Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba: Different is Cool – 11:00-12:00 1A18

It’s been years since Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba have been at NYCC. If you’re a fan of theirs, you need to be at this panel, because who knows how long it will be until they return?

Thrilling Adventure Hour – 11:15-12:15 1A24

Listen to the cast and writers of Thrilling Adventure Hour discuss their dearly departed comedy podcast (which lives on as a couple of Image Comics series – check them out!).

All-New All-Different Marvel – 11:15-12:15 1A10

Marvel announcement. Glorious Marvel announcements. Oooh, Gerry Duggan is going to be there. Looks like I’m going to this panel dressed as Zenpool. If you spot me, be sure to say hi. 🙂

DC Comics: Heroes to the Core – 12:15-1:15 1A06

Dan Didio will be talking with DC creators on stage, including John Romita Jr (it’s still hard for me to think of him as a DC guy), Robert Venditti and more about the future of the DCU (not to be confused with DC You, which DC seems to be quickly backing away from).

Disney-Lucasfilm Publishing Presents Star Wars: Journey to Force Awakens – 12:15-1:15 1A21

Have you noticed the flood of Journey to Force Awakens books that have recently hit the marketplace? The writers of those novels, including Greg Rucka and Chuck Wendig, will be at this panel discussing their Star Wars writing.

Cinemax Presents Robert Kirkman’s New Series Outcast – 1:30-2:30 1A06

Wow, Cinemax really wants to drive the connection to The Walking Dead home on this one. Who can blame them? After the success of The Walking Dead, I can only assume they paid a good deal for the rights to Kirkman’s new series, Outcast. Series star Patrick Fugit (Almost Famous) and Robert Kirkman will both be here to talk about the upcoming show.

DC Comics – Batman: The Bat Universe 1:30-2:30 Empire Stage 1-E

Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Peter Tomasi, Amy Chu, Tom King, Tim Seeley, Khary Randolph and James Tynion IV will all be at this panel. What a line-up! If you’re reading a Batbook right now, this is your panel.

Using Tmblr to Sell Your Idea – 1:30-2:30 1B03

Here’s a panel that has both an interesting theme and a stellar line-up. Felipe Smith (All-New Ghost Rider), Kieron Gillen (The Wicked + The Divine) and Katie Cook (artist of the cutest and smallest con sketches ever) will be in conversation with Marlene aka @ilikecomicstoo about using social media to sell your idea. I’m a huge fan of Kieron Gillen’s tumblr blog, which gives behind-the-scenes insights into his writing. It’s like reading a director’s commentary for his comics. I will definitely be at this panel. You should too.

Clueless 20th Anniversary Panel – 1:45-2:45 1A10

Clueless writer/director Amy Heckerling will be speaking about the movie, which in my opinion is one of the best movies of the 1990s.

Marvel: Cup O’Joe – 2:45-3:45 Empire Stage 1-E

The Cup O’Joe panel is a mainstay of NYCC. If you’re a Marvel fan, you’re going to want to make sure you get a seat to this one. We’ll no doubt be seeing exclusive looks at post-Secret Wars Marvel Comics for the first time. Kieron Gillen will be here. Follow him from the tumblr panel to this one, where he’ll be talking about his upcoming Marvel work. Other guests include Charles Soule and Dan Slott.

The Splat: All That Reunion – 4:15-5:15 1A10

Wait, Kel will be here but not Keenan? That is not a Goodburger…

Cartoon Network Presents: Regular Show 4:15-5:15 – Hammerstein Ballroom

NYCC has grown so big this year that some panels and screenings are taking place at The Hammerstein Ballroom. If you walked over from Penn Station along 34 Street, you no doubt passed by it. What could make you leave the Javits Center to attend a panel? Four words: Regular Show. The Movie.

Marvel Netflix: Daredevil and Jessica Jones: Alias. 5:00-6:45 Main Stage 1-D

Hopefully the ticketing for this is not as big a clusterfuck as it was for last year’s Daredevil panel, where a bunch of jerks tried cutting the line, causing Marvel to send everyone on their way before Marvel had a ticket lottery later in the day. I am so excited for both the return of Daredevil and the new Alias series. If only they were also giving us some news on Damage Control. Who knows? Maybe they are. (Wristband required)

FUNimation Industry Panel – 5:30-6:30 1A24

After recently getting into Attack on Titan, I’m all about this panel.

NYCC Charity Auction – 7:00-9:00 1A18

This is my favorite event at all of NYCC. If you are an original art collector, this is a MUST ATTEND event. Mike Negin, the Artist Alley coordinator amasses a spectacular collection of original comic book art to be auctioned off every year for charity. All money raised goes directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Original art pages, covers (COVERS!) and convention sketches will all be auctioned off. Even if you don’t buy any art, come for the bidding, which tends to vicious at different points. Expect the Adam Hughes and Walt Simonson pieces to be the #1 and #2 most expensive pieces of the night (they were the last two years). It’s an awesome time, and a terrific charity fundraiser. GO TO THIS!

Doctor Who Fan Screening and Q&A with Screenwriter Toby Whithouse – 7:45-9:15

See the new Doctor Who episode Before the Flood before it airs on BBC America! I’m so tempted to go to this, but I’ll be at the Art Auction. While I’m losing out to bidders with a bigger bankroll, I will be sitting there jealous of all of you at this Doctor Who screening, especially because you’ll be able to ask screenwriter Toby Whithouse questions right after the episode. Please make them good questions. You’re watching the new episode that he wrote – make your questions specific to that.

September 27, 2015 by Billy Henehan

The Best NYCC 2015 Exclusives

Every year, there is A LOT of exclusive merchandise available at NYCC. We’re here to highlight the cream of the crop, because not all exclusives are created equal. Note: This post will be updated continuously as New York Comic Con 2015 gets closer and more exclusive merch is announced. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly.

Boba Fett and Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite Itty Bitties – Hallmark

I can’t lie; I have a small obsession with all things Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite. While I have yet to have a life size Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite hanging on my apartment wall, I will happily display this Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite, quite possibly the cutest Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite on my desk at work.

U-3PO and R5-D4 Keepsake Ornaments – Hallmark

Both of these droids appeared in the original Star Wars movie. U-3PO can be seen in the background of Princess Leia’s ship at the beginning of the movie and R5-D4 was almost purchased by Uncle Owen from the Jawas before the droid shorted out and he bought R2-D2 instead. This Christmas, both will be hanging on my tree.

Doctor Who Weeping Angel Statue of Liberty Christmas Ornament – Newbury Comics – Booth 2945

A cool exclusive Christmas ornament and it’s not at the Hallmark booth?! New England based comics retailer Newbury Comics has this exclusive ornament that features the Weeping Angel Statue of Liberty from the classic Doctor Who episode, Angels Take Manhattan.

Death Star Surface Modules Set #1 – eFX – Booth 1344 – $150

eFX is known for their screen accurate prop replicas. This year, they are offering a a very cool set of replicas of the Death Star tiles used in filming the original Star Wars movie. These modules were used to shoot the surface of the Death Star. ILM created different tiles for showing different altitudes. These particular tile replicas are the “high altitude: square tiles in medium altitude configuration.” They’re presented a very nice wall plaque. If you can’t make it to New York Comic Con, or just don’t want to deal with the crowd at the eFX booth, eFX has made a limited supply of these available for sale on their website.

Mega Man X-Kai Action Figure – TruForce Collectibles – $89.99 – Limited to 1/person/day

If you’re a Megan Man fan, you need to check out this figure. It features over 30 points of articulation, an LED X-Buster and translucent purple effects pieces.

Deadpool’s Chimichanga Truck Pop Vinyl – Funko – Booth 722

There are have been Funko exclusives at NYCC for years now with their exclusives being sold through partners, but this is the first year that Funko is setting up their own booth at New York Comic Con. And they are BRINGING IT. Funko has A LOT of exclusives available at NYCC this year, from all of their lines. This Deadpool and Chimichanga truck is one of my favorites. It’s limited to 3000 pieces.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day T1000 Frozen Patrolman Action Figure – Funko – Booth 722

Do you love Terminator 2: Judgment Day? Of course you do. It’s one of the greatest action movies of all time. And this figure recreates one of the coolest scenes in the movie, when the villainous T1000 is frozen solid. I love the design of this ReAction figure. It is perfect in its retro-Kenner aesthetic. It’s limited to 1500 pieces. Expect a quick sellout.

Clear Glitter Boba Fett Hikari – Funko – Booth 722

Funko’s Hikari figures are hit or miss for me, and mostly miss. To me, they just don’t look cool enough to justify the high price tag. But I am loving this clear glitter Boba Fett variant. It’s limited to 750, so if you want one, act quickly at NYCC. The high price tag might scare some people off, but this Hikari looks too dope to still be available on Sunday afternoon.

Iron Throne 6″ Super Sized Pop Vinyl – Funko – Booth 722

Could this be Funko’s most popular Pop Vinyl of NYCC 2015? Could this be the most popular exclusive at NYCC 2015? I see this being on the must-buy list for many, many people. I don’t think I have ever liked a Pop Vinyl as much as I like this interpretation of the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones.

Shaun of the Dead Vinyl Idolz Figure – Funko – Booth 722

TMNT Black and White Ninja Turtles Dorbz Set – Funko – Booth 722

So cute!! Has any set of Dorbz figures ever been as adorable as this four figure set? You get all four turtles in their classic black and white glory. And I absolutely LOVE the red spot coloring on their eye masks. Ahhh! These are just too cute

Game of Thrones Joffrey Baratheon 5″ Crown – Dark Horse – Booth 1636 – $60

When Dave from the Tuesday Night Comics podcast heard of this exclusive, he noted “$60 is well worth an excuse to bring out your inner spoiled entitled monarch.” You might want to avoid drinking wine while you wear this though. Limited to 400 total, limit of 2 crowns per purchase per day. $60 works out to how many gold dragons?

M.O.T.U.S.C.L.E Figure Packs – Super7 – $6

Like Hallmark’s exclusive ornaments, these were also available at SDCC in July. There are four packs of these figures, combining two of my favorite toys from the 1980s: Masters of the Universe and M.U.S.C.L.E! Each comes with three heroes or three villains and there are four different packs. I’ll be buying all four. They had me at Ram Man.

Harley Quinn Batman: The Animated Series Black and White Bust – Diamond Select – Booth 1644 – $60

Limited to 1,700 pieces. This is a fantastic looking bust of Harley Quinn, in all her Bruce Timm designed glory!

October 7, 2014 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2014 Sunday Panel Guide

Well, you did it. You made it all the way to Sunday at NYCC. Congratulations. But don’t get too restful. There’s still a full day of panels available for you to enjoy! Here are our picks for the best of them!

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM – The Karate Kid 30th Anniversary Cast Reunion – 1A10

Oh man, Ralph Macchio, Billy Zabka and Martin Kove are all going to be here for this! That’s Daniel, Johnny and Sensei Kreese! This panel is the best around!

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM – Marvel Unlimited + Member Event – 1A21

You have to be a Marvel Unlimited + member to attend this panel, but you can sign up for Marvel Unlimited + at the Marvel booth. As someone who regularly uses Marvel Unlimited and is a + member, I highly recommend it. As a + member, you receive an exclusive Marvel Legends action figure, an exclusive variant comic, swag mailed to you throughout the year, and access to panels like this at NYCC, SDCC, C2E2 and SE:NYC. I went to this panel last year and loved it.

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM – Stormtroopers vs. Red Shirts – 1A18

Is the question here, which is better, Star Wars or Star Trek? Because that’s easy. It’s Star Wars.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – NY Minute Dating – 1E03

Two of us here at Tuesday Night Movies were almost trampled to death by single fanboys and fangirls trying to get into this event a couple of NYCCs ago. Please don’t trample us this year. But please do have fun, and hopefully meet a cute fanboy and fangirl to accompany you to one of the panels we recommend later in the day.

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Thrilling Adventure Hour – 1A06

Fresh off their performance Saturday night at The Bell House in Brooklyn, the cast and writers of The Thrilling Adventure Hour are coming to New York Comic Con for this panel. Members of the cast will also be signing autographs for free later in the day (check the NYCC autograph schedule for details).

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Dothraki 101: Learn to Speak Like a Khal with Language Creator David Peterson – 1A24

David Peterson created the Dothraki language for HBO’s Game of Thrones, and he’s here to teach it to you. Talk like Khal Drogo! Muscle suit and guyliner not included…

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Survivors of the First Con – 1A14

Stan Lee’s former secretary, Flo Steinberg, is on this panel. This pane is worth it just to hear her stories. Len Wein is also on this panel, and I believe he had a hand in organizing the first comic book convention, way back when in the summer of 1964 in NYC.

11:45 AM – 12:45 PM – Kids Costume Parade – Family HQ – 1C03

Sunday is Kids Day at NYCC. Bring your kids dressed as their favorite superheroes to the Kids Costume Parade, which is sure to be fun for them. Show up early to register. Space is limited.

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM – “Trust Me, I’m the Doctor” – 1A18

A look back at the 50 year history of Doctor Who. This is going to be a discussion on all things Time Lord related. If talking about the Doctor is one of your favorite hobbies, this panel is not to be missed.

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM – The Walking Dead: The Inside Scoop on TellTale’s Video Game Franchise – 1A14

Sometimes I think the story in the TellTales The Walking Dead video games are better than The Walking Dead TV show. There, I said it. Have you played these games? They’re choice based, and your choices affect the direction of the storyline. And they’re fun too. I highly recommend these games.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – 3D Printing for Costumes and Props – 1B03

I wish I owned a 3D printer, just so I could make screen accurate Amazing Spider-Man 2 soles for an Amazing Spider-Man 2 costume. If you have similar thoughts, you might want to attend this panel.

1:15 PM – 2:15 PM – Gotham Special Video Presentation and Q&A – Main Stage 1-D

Are you watching Gotham? Better question, our reading the Tuesday Night Comics recaps of Gotham? Call us biased, but we like them more than the show. That said, if you are watching Gotham, you may want to check out this special presentation by the show’s producers.

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM – Women of MARVEL Panel – 1A06

Kelly Sue DeConnick, Sana Amanat and other women involved in the creative side of Marvel Comics will lead this discussion on what it’s like to be a woman working i the comics industry.

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM – DC Digital: Download This! – 1A21

Some of the talent behind DC’s digital first releases will talk about the DC’s digital line of comics. I like DC’s new comic premiering every day of the week model of releasing digital content. It helps me get through those days that aren’t Wednesdays.

4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – MARVEL: Spider-Verse – 1A10

Man, I was really hoping to wear my new Spider-Man costume to this panel. But it’s still in China, and won’t be USA bound until after NYCC. 🙁 Still, I’m psyched for Spider-Verse! And no, Spider-Verse is not a Spider-Man comic told in verse form…though that might be awesome.

5:15 PM – 6:00 PM – Cary Elwes, Author of As You Wish, Discusses the Making of The Princess Bride – 1A06

The Princess Bride is one of my favorite movies ever. I’m very much looking forward to hear Westley talk about the making of the movie.

5:15 PM – 6:00 PM – NYCC Staff Q&A – 1A05

Do you have some ideas on how to improve NYCC? Well, here’s your chance to tell them to the people who matter.

Written by Sarvenaz Tash

October 7, 2014 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2014 Saturday Panel Guide

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM – CollegeHumor and Dorkly Present “How to Get Paid For Being a Nerd” – 1A24

Even if you’re not interested in starting your own fansite, this should be fun.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – The League Screening and Q&A – Empire Stage 1-E

The League is one of the funniest shows on TV. You don’t have to like sports to like it. The League is about fantasy football about as much as It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is about Philadelphia. The whole cast will be on hand to discuss season 6.

12:45 PM – 1:45 PM – MARVEL Cup O’ Joe – Empire Stage 1-E

Joe Quesada really stacked the deck at his panel. Brian Michael Bendis, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Dan Slott and Gerry Duggan. If you’re a Marvel reader, you’re probably reading a book written by at least one of these writers.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – Nerdist Comics Panel – 1A24

Ben Blacker is joined by the writers of three of my favorite projects of the past year: G. Willow Wilson (Ms. Marvel), Heath Corson (Batman: Assault on Arkham) and Greg Pak (Code Monkey Save The World). This would be a hard panel for me to miss. See you there!

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM – CBLDF: Tales from the Code – True Stories of Censorship – 1A18

The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund does great work, defending the first amendment rights of comic book creators and retailers. Speakers Denny O’Neill and Paul Levitz both have long careers going back decades at DC Comics. I’ve seen Denny O’Neill speak before. He’s very outspoken. I expect this panel to be both educational and entertaining.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – #YesAllGeeks: Let’s Talk About Harassment in Fandom – 1A21

Sadly, the reports of harassment at conventions have gone up over the last few years, leading New York Comic Con to adopt an official harassment policy last year. Like the CBLDF panel, I expect this panel to be very educational. Unfortunately, I think the con-goers that most need to attend this panel will probably be too busy harassing someone in a Phoenix costume on the show floor to attend this panel, but hopefully that’s not the case. Go to this panel. It may change your worldview regarding what’s acceptable at a convention.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM – So They Say You Shouldn’t Cosplay – 1A18

I hate it when I hear people say someone is too black/white/fat/skinny/tall/short/female/male to cosplay as the character they want to cosplay. A friend of mine wanted to cosplay as Iron Fist a couple of years ago, but was told by his friends that because he’s black, he should cosplay as Luke Cage instead. No, he should cosplay as whomever he damn well feels like cosplaying! It’s unfortunate that this panel is directly conflicting with the #YesAllGeeks panel, because I think going to both of these panels would be more beneficial than going to just one of them. The topics they’re both covering seem like a good fit for overlapping. This should have followed #YesAllGeeks, not had to go against it.

5:00 PM – 7:30 PM [adult swim] Panel Block – 1A10

Like yesterday’s [adult swim] panel block, this one will not have the room cleared between panels. Today, you’ll be able to see the stars of Black Dynamite (5:00 PM – 5:45 PM), The Heart, She Holler (5:50 PM – 6:35 PM), and Mike Tyson Mysteries (6:45 PM – 7:30 PM). Mike Tyson will be there. Yes, you read that right. Mike Tyson will be there. Guard your ears!

5:15 PM – 6:15 PM – Marvel’s Daredevil, Exclusively on Netflix – Main Stage 1-D

This is the first public appearance of the cast of Marvel’s Daredevil series, which is coming to Netflix next year. I’m really hoping that they have some footage to show us!

7:15 PM – 10:00 PM – NYCC Charity Art Auction – 1A18

I went to the NYCC Charity Art Auction and was blown away by the artwork they had available. Sketches, original art pages, original art covers (!!). Mike Negin does a tremendous job collecting donations from artists, and he’s runs a fast and smooth auction too. I walked away with a Spider-Man painting by Franco and a page of original art from Hulk by Ed McGuinness. Follow Mike’s Twitter feed and you can get a sneak peek at what going to be up for auction. All the money raised goes to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As it says on the NYCC site: Have fun. Get art. Save lives.

This Harley Quinn sketch by Sara Pichelli is just one of the many pieces of awesome artwork available at the NYCC Charity Auction.

8:15 PM – 10:00 PM – ReedPop’s Fandom Film Festival – 1A14

It’s the end of the busiest day of NYCC. Maybe you just want to sit down and relax. In that case, head here for the inaugural ReedPop Fandom Film Festival.

8:15 PM – 9:15 PM – Doctor Who Fan Screening with BBC America – Empire Stage 1-E

See the new episode of Doctor Who, Mummy on the Orient Express, before it airs on BBC America! Sadly, neither Jenna Coleman nor Peter Capaldi will be here for this panel.

October 6, 2014 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2014 – Thursday Panel Highlights

Have you looked at the panel list for New York Comic Con 2014? There are A LOT of panels this year! Yes, there are a lot of panels every year, but I feel that this year there are more, a lot more. Wading through the entire list of panels can be time consuming, so that’s why we’re here to give you our picks for the not-to-missed panels of NYCC 2014!

In past years, the Thursday panels have seemed like little more than afterthoughts. That’s not the case this year, with big names presenting big things on the first day of NYCC!

The doors to NYCC open at 12 noon on Thursday, giving you a full hour to buy exclusives, pick up merch and autograph tickets, and check out the show floor before heading to the first panels of the con at 1 PM.

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Walt Disney Studios Presents an Exclusive Look at Tomorrowland and Walt Disney Animation Studios Presents a Exclusive Look at Big Hero 6 – Main Stage 1-D

I’m surprised this panel isn’t on Sunday, aka Kid’s Day, because it would be PACKED! As it is, I’d still expect a crowd, as you’re getting previews of both Tomorrowland and Big Hero 6, AND Directors Don Hall and Chris Williams (Big Hero 6) and Brad Bird (Tomorrowland) will be at this panel! If those names don’t ring a bell, Don Hall and Chris Williams directed a little movie called Frozen, and Brad Bird directed two of my favorite animated movies ever, The Iron Giant and The Incredibles.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – Friend of Comic Vine – 1A21

I consider myself a Friend of Comic Vine. I’ve helped update their wiki, participate on their message boards (though sadly not as much as I’d like to recently), and even wrote an article that’s currently sitting on their front page. I’ve met EIC Tony Guerrero and Gregg Katzman before (both of who are great guys). If you’re an active user of Comic Vine, I would consider this a can’t-miss panel, as it’s your chance to meet your fellow Viners in person. Not to mention that Brian Buccellato, Jimmy Palmiotti and Josh Fialkov will be there too.

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM – Game of Thrones Fan Forum – Featuring Kristian Nairn and Natalia Tena – Empire Stage 1-E

Hodor! Osha (or Tonks for you Harry Potter fans)! Both will be at this panel dedicated to our favorite HBO show. A word of warning – if you haven’t read the books, be wary about attending this panel. Spoilers abound when fans start asking questions.

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM – Doctor Who Comics Panel – 1A10

IDW recently launched two new Doctor Who series, one focused on the 10th Doctor, David Tennet, and one focused on the 11th Doctor, Matt Smith. And right around NYCC, another series featuring the 12th Doctor, Peter Capaldi, will launch. This panel will have writers Nick Abadzis, Robbie Morrison and Rob Williams, and artist Simon Fraser. Plus, every attendee will walk out with some Doctor Who swag.

2:15 PM – 3:00 PM – ComicsPro “So You Want to Be a Comics Retailer?” – 1A05

Are you thinking about quitting your day job and following your dream to talk and sell comics all day? If so, this panel is for you. Actual comic book retailers will be on hand to answer your questions. Come prepared.

3:15 PM – 4:00 PM – 50 Years of Fandom! How Comics Took Over the World – 1A06

I was ready to write this panel off until I saw that the panel guests included Maggie Thompson and Michael Uslan. This should be a very informative panel about the history of comic book conventions in particular and fandom in general.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Skybound’s The Walking Dead – Empire Stage 1-E

If you’re a fan of The Walking Dead from Image Comics, this is a must-go-to panel for you! Robert Kirkman will be there! Do you need another reason? No, I didn’t think you did.

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM – Image Comics – I is for Immersive – 1A21

This panel had me at Jamie McKelvie. The former artist of the dearly missed Young Avengers, and current artist of the excellent Image Comic, The Wicked + The Divine, will be on hand. I’m guessing Wicked + Divine writer Kieron Gillen will be there too, though he’s not listed as of yet (but will be at NYCC). Also at this panel: Brandon Montclare (Rocket Girl), Kelly Sue Deconnick (Pretty Deadly) and Kyle Higgins (C.O.W.L.). Head here straight after The Walking Dead panel.

5:15 PM – 6:45 PM – Design Your Own Cape with Art Force Five – Family HQ 1C02

If you’re bringing your kid with you to NYCC on Thursday, take them to this! Your kid (and you too, why not?) can design his or her very own superhero cape, picking out the color and the emblem. Don’t have a kid? I don’t think you need one to attend this, and everyone needs a cape!

The show floor closes at 7:00, so you can either head home, head to an after party or head to these late panels.

6:45 PM – 7:45 PM – Adam West & Batman: The Complete Television Series – Main Stage 1-D

The Adam West Batman series is finally coming to DVD and Blu Ray this fall with an official release from Warner! I. Cannot. Wait.

7:15 PM – 8:00 PM – Firefly Online: Bringing Back the Verse – 1A06

Firefly is back! Yes, it’s as a video game, not a TV show, but it’s a video game that you and all your browncoat friends can play together. Plus, Andrea Romano will be on the panel. Andrea Romano makes every panel better. Hmmm…I wonder if they’ll be giving out beta keys.

7:15 PM – 8:00 PM – Bleeding Cool – The Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘N’ Roll of Comics Revealed – 1A24

Start you day with a Comic Vine panel and end it with a Bleeding Cool panel. Bleeding Cool has picked up on stories we’ve run here, but that’s not why I’m recommending this panel. Rich Johnston is a very entertaining and very polarizing fellow in the comics industry. I have nothing but love for Rich, as Bleeding Cool is a site I check daily. This should be a VERY fun panel, full of rumors and innuendo.

8:00 PM – 8:45 PM – Sketch Fighter – 1B03

Well, this looks like a lot of fun! Comic book artists and stand-up comics will go head-to-head in what appears to be a Win, Lose or Draw type game show. Plus, all the art made during this show will be auctioned off at the end, with the money going to The HERO Initiative. No word yet on what artists on participating

8:30 PM – 10:30 PM – WB Preview Night Screening – The Pilot Episode of Constantine and the Season Two Premiere of The 100 – Main Stage 1-D

It’s a WB double feature! Want to see the pilot of Constantine two weeks early? Go here! I wonder which they’ll show first. I’m hoping it’s Constantine, just because I’ve never seen The 100. I wouldn’t be surprised if they show The 100 first, knowing that most people are showing up to see Constantine.

September 28, 2014 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2014 Exclusive Merch!

Written by David Henehan.

Like in past years, there is a lot of exclusive merchandise available for sale at New York Comic Con 2014. We went through the list and picked out what we think is the best for this guide. Sadly, it looks like Hasbro has once again spurned NYCC, with zero exclusives available at the show. I really wish they would reverse course on this decision, but there are still plenty of cool exclusives from other companies available at the convention. We found something for every budget, as prices range from free to $300.

Be sure to bookmark this page, as this post will be updated as we get closer to NYCC 2014!

Avengers & X-Men: Axis #1 Midtown Comics Variant ($12) – I’m not usually one for variant covers, but this one that is drawn to look like a Scarlet Witch/Enchantress playing card looks really cool. Even the back cover ad for Midtown Comics looks like the back of a playing card! Available at the Midtown Comics booth (2036) and Midtown Comics stores around NYC.

Batman: Arkham Origins Play Arts -Kai- Deathstroke Limited Color Version – ($99.99 – Limited to 1000 pieces) – 10″ tall and completely bad ass looking, this is redeco of the Arkham Origins Play Arts Deathstroke, It’s painted in metallic hues of Deathstroke’s original blue and gold costume. Available at the Square Enix booth (1813). Square Enix has 500 of these Deathstroke figures available for pre-order on their website if you’d like to guarantee yourself one, or can’t make it to NYCC.

Star Wars Wampa Hallmark Keepsake Ornament ($35 – Limited to 200/day) – The first place I’ll be hitting up on Thursday is the Hallmark booth (1554) for this ornament. My Christmas tree hasn’t been complete for years, I see that now, because it was missing this ornament. If you’d like this ornament too, make sure you join me first thing on the Hallmark booth line. They’re only selling 200 per day, and this will sell out quickly! Also, if your friends want one, they’ll have to join you in line. Hallmark traditionally caps to these exclusives to one of each ornament per person.

Iron Man 3 War Machine Hallmark Keepsake Ornament ($25 – Limited to 150/day) – I have loved the War Machine armor since it was first introduced in the Iron Man comics back in the 1990s. Limited edition War Machine ornament, you say? Well, I’m going to be on that Hallmark line anyway. And for those of you who bought the Hallmark Iron Patriot ornament last year, this is a repaint of that ornament. Just think how great they’ll look next to each other on your tree. Available at the Hallmark booth (1554).

Batman: Arkham’s Avenger Hallmark Keepsake Ornament ($35 – Limited to 175/day) – This ornament is inspired by the Arkham City video game, capturing Batman perched on one of Gotham City’s numerous gargoyles. Like their other ornaments, sales on this are super limited, so get on that Hallmark booth (1554) line early!

Star Wars Tusken Raider and Bantha itty bitty Plush ($20 – Limited to 300/day) – For the little Star Wars fan in your life…or you know, just for you. It’s a cute stuffed animal pair consisting of a Tusken Raider and a bantha, the beast that the Sand People ride on in the desert wastes of Tatooine. These are super cute, and super limited. Available at the Hallmark booth (1554).

Sam Raimi Action Figure – Direct your Tobey Maguire Spider-Man action figure in an action figure version of the never made Spider-Man 4 with this Sam Raimi action figure. Limited to only 50 pieces. Between all the Spider-Man and Army of Darkness fans at NYCC, I don’t see these lasting long. $65 claims yours at the Tenacious Toys booth (208).

Doctor Who TITAN: 8″ Trenzalore TARDIS Figure – It’s the Doctor’s tombstone, his own decayed TARDIS from his grave on Trenzalore. I really like Titan’s line of Doctor Who TITANS. This one is no exception. Available at the Titan booth (2142)

Doctor Who TITANS: 3″ 12th Doctor Homeless Outfit Figure – Wearing the coat he bought off a homeless man, in Victorian London, this 3″ TITAN of 12th Doctor Peter Capaldi will look awesome standing contrasted on your bookshelf with last year’s 10th Doctor Tuxedo Variant TITAN on your bookshelf. Available at the Titan booth (2142)

Doctor Who TITANS: 6.5″ 12th Doctor Figurre – Do you like your Doctors bigger? Then you should opt for this 6.5″ variant of Peter Capaldi’s 12th Doctor, standing at more then twice the size of the other TITAN Capaldi figure. Available at the Titan booth (2142)

Ecto-1 POP Rides! – There are a few Funko Pop! exclusives available at NYCC this year, but this special “slimed” variant of the Funko POP Rides! Ecto-1 car with Egon behind the wheel is definitely the coolest. Available at Toy Tokyo (101)

30th Anniversary Voltron Gold Edition – And I thought the 20th Anniversary Voltron figure looked cool. There are only 500 available. It features light-up LED eyes, has die-cast parts, stands 11″ on its own and 13″ on its base. The downside, besides the $300 price tag? The “gold” in the special Gold Edition is limited to the security seals on the box. That said, it’s still a very cool looking figure. Available at the Toynami Inc booth (556)

HeroClix Captain America Sentinel ($25 – Cash only) – This Marvel HeroClix Sentinel is painted to look like Captain America. The New Mutants fought it when they were sent to the future timeline of Days of Future Past. Available at the Neca/WizKids booth (536). Note: The WizKids booth is cash only!

HeroClix Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends Team Base ($25 – Cash only) – Yes! It’s been some time since I last played HeroClix, but this set could get me back into the game. The base includes Spider-Man, Firestar and Ice Man, who can be played as a single unit on the base or taken off the base to play separately. The set also includes a map of Liberty Island, so that you can play with the figures right out of the box. But most importantly, they include Aunt May’s dog, Ms. Lion, on the base! As a Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends fan, this is something I definitely want on my desk. Now if we could only get Hallmark to make a Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends exclusive ornament next year! Available at the Neca/WizKids booth (536). Note: The WizKids booth is cash only!

HeroClix: War of Light Black and White Batteries Pack ($25 – Cash Only) – WizKids hasn’t forgotten their DC fans. This War of Light pack includes both the Black Lantern and White Lantern central power batteries, and a bunch of White Lantern and Black Lantern constructs. Definitely worth the $25. For all of their exclusives, WizKids will have a limited supply on hand each day, so if want any of their merch, be sure to hit their booth up early. Available at the Neca/WizKids booth (536). Note: The WizKids booth is cash only!

NYCC Mad Libs – I love Mad Libs. Who doesn’t? This is a special NYCC exclusive Mad Libs, with stories based on comic book conventions. Available at both the Penguin booth (2108) and Mad Libs booth (965)

Disco Nightwing and Flash “Fastest Man Alive” Mini-Prints – Stop by Christopher Jones’s table in Artist Alley, show him that you follow him on Twitter (@ChrisJonesArt), and you’ll be able to grab one of these two prints for FREE! If you’re having a hard time finding his table, just look for all the Young Justice cosplayers. And when you get your free print, tell him that Tuesday Night Movies sent you!

What piece of NYCC 2014 exclusive merch are you post excited for?!

November 25, 2013 by Billy Henehan

Geeky Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are right around the corner. Are you looking for the perfect gift for the geek in your life? Tuesday Night Movies is here to help!

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase One – Avengers Assembled Boxed Set

This box set comes with all of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies leading up to and including The Avengers. You get Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America, and The Avengers. What really makes this set cool is that everything is packaged in a SHIELD-branded briefcase that contains a light-up tesseract inside!

Captain America: The Winter Solider Ultimate Collection

Next year’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier movie is largely based on Ed Brubaker’s run on the Captain America comic, where he introduced Cap’s mysterious new enemy, the Winter Soldier. This collection has stunning art by Steve Epting and Michael Lark, and an amazing story by Brubaker.

Doctor Who: Series 1-7 Limited Edition Gift Set

BBC has finally released the Chistopher Eccleston and David Tennant years of Doctor Who on Blu Ray. This set includes all of those seasons, plus seasons 5-7 starring Matt Smith as the Doctor. The set also includes an awesome fully functional sonic screwdriver universal remote control. You can use it on your TV, blu ray player, speakers, anything that will work with a universal remote. This is the closest you’ll get to feeling like a time lord without having a second heart implanted in you.

Doctor Who Tardis Beach Towel

Sure, it’s cold out now, but summer will be here soon enough. Or maybe the Doctor will show up to pick up you and friends for a weekend getaway to the Caribbean in the middle of January. In either situation, this Tardis towel is a must-own item.

Han Solo Frozen in Carbonite Bottle Opener

Transform your kitchen in Jabba’s throne room! This is quite possibly the coolest looking bottle opener ever, a highly detailed replica of Han Solo frozen in carbonite from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. And it’s functional too. The back of Han Solo is magnetic, so it will stick to your fridge. The bottle opener is solid metal, not some flimsy plastic, so it should last you a long time.

Star Wars Tauntaun Sleeping Bag

I received one of these Tauntaun sleeping bags for Christmas when ThinkGeek first introduced them a couple of years ago. It is quite possibly the best Christmas present I ever received. You should buy this for someone you love. And buy one for yourself too while you’re at it.

Harry Potter Wizard’s Collection (Blu Ray/DVD Combo/Ultraviolet Combo)

There have been many Harry Potter movie collections over the years, but this is the mother of all Harry Potter movie collections. It is 31 discs in total, including all 8 Harry Potter movies on both Blu Ray and DVD, and tons of special features. But what really sells this collection is how it’s contained. The box is a fold out chest of drawers. The discs are in book-like boxes. One disc is even hidden behind a secret compartment. The Ultra-Violet download codes are written on rolled-up scrolls. There are a couple of books included, The Catalog of Artifacts and The Label Collection, which really show off the detail that went into producing the props for the movies. There’s a map of Hogwarts and the surrounding area, and a blueprint of Hogwarts Castle. There’s even a horcrux locket! This is the ultimate gift for the Harry Potter fan in your life!

Harry Potter Triwizard Tournament Shirt

The perfect gift for the quidditch fan in your life. This is an exact replica of the shirt that Harry wears in the third challenge of the Triwzard Tournament. Potter is embroidered on the back and the shirt has the Hogwarts school crest on the front.

Star Trek Transporter Room Bath Mat & Shower Curtain Set

Modeled after the original Star Trek series, this bath mat and shower curtain set will transform your bathroom into the Transporter Room. Beam up to the Enterprise every time you step out of the shower!

Star Trek Spock Oven Mitt

This is just super. It’s an oversized Spock hand, giving the “Live long and proper” sign and it’s an oven mitt. I don’t know if this combination is logical, but it is definitely awesome!

Game of Thrones Scarves

Winter is coming. A man needs a scarf.

Game of Thrones: Iron Coin of the Faceless Man

Because a man needs a coin. This is a replica of the coin that Jaqen gives Arya. One side shows a faceless man. The other says reads: “Valar Morghulis, Valar Dohaeris,” which translates to “All men must die, all men must serve.” This is quite possibly one of the coolest prop replicas I’ve seen from HBO’s hit TV series.

The Walking Dead Season 3 Limited Edition Boxed Set

Winning the prize for the creepiest boxed set on the market is this version of AMC’s The Walking Dead Season 3. It comes packaged with a replica of The Governor’s collection of zombie heads in fish tanks. It even lights up from within to illuminate the heads. You can even fill the aquariums with water! And it comes with all of season 3 of The Walking Dead.

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Funko Pop Vinyl Figure

Easily the coolest character on The Walking Dead, Daryl Dixon can now guard office desks and bookshelves from walkers in the form of this vinyl figure from Funko.

Batman: Arkham Origins Collectors Edition

The Arkham Asylum and Arkham City games have been my absolute favorite video games of the last couple of years. The latest chapter in the franchise was recently released, Batman: Arkham Origins. The collectors edition of Arkham Origins contains a slew of cool stuff, most notably a light-up statue of Batman’s archenemy, The Joker. You even get more game, as the collectors edition includes download codes for bonus content not included in the standard edition. When your thumbs are sore, you can watch the included Blu Ray of Necessary Evil: The Villains of the DC Universe.

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Deluxe Edition

When DC first released the animated version of The Dark Knight Returns, they did it as two separate movies. The movies were very well received and DC has now combined the two of them into one epic movie. The Dark Knight Returns is one of the coolest Batman stories ever told.

October 18, 2013 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2013 Cosplay!

Wow, we saw A LOT of awesome cosplay at New York Comic Con this year! We took a bunch of photos of our favorites. Check it out!

Photos by David Henehan and Graig Kreindler.

October 9, 2013 by Billy Henehan

NYCC 2013 Exclusives

Once again, Hasbro has decided to snub NYCC (Hey Hasbro, maybe if your exclusives weren’t so lame in 2011, people would have bought them). There will be no NYCC exclusive Minimates. Those two pieces of news would be bigger downers if there weren’t so many awesome exclusives at New York Comic Con this year. We combed through the very large list of NYCC exclusives to bring you this list of what we think are the coolest ones.

Agent Coulson SHIELD Badge and ID and Personalized ID Card – eFX Collectibles – Booth #1869
You got in on the pre-sale for this, right? If not, hit this booth up early. I think this will be the most popular souvenir of NYCC 2013.

Marvel Toon Tumblers – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $15.99, Limited to 200 for each design
A few years ago, when Toon Tumblers was first starting out, they partnered with Marvel to release an exclusive Ghost Rider Toon Tumbler at NYCC. This year, Marvel and Toon Tumblers have partnered again for an astounding eight different Toon Tumblers. They are: Angela by Sara Pichelli, Deadpool by Skottie Young, Hawkeye by David Aja, Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD cast photo, Scarlet Witch by Adi Granov, Superior Spider-Man by Ryan Stegman, Spider-Man by Skottie Young, and Thor and Jane Foster from Thor: The Dark World.
I’m very, very, very tempted to come home with the Skottie Young Deadpool and Spider-Man pint glasses. Maybe that Agents of SHIELD one too. I need something to drink out of when I’m writing my Agents of SHIELD episode reviews.

Rocket Raccoon Plush & Lithograph – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $34.99, Limited to 1000
Rocket Racoon isn’t exactly a household name. He’s a character in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy movie. If you’re not familiar with Rocket Raccon, don’t fear buying this. He’s definitely not the Jar Jar Binks of Guardians of the Galaxy.

Zombie Magneto Bust – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $99.99, Limited to 300
Designed by Gentle Giant, this Zombie Magneto bust is exquisitely designed…in an entirely gut wrenching way. Check with your significant other before putting this on your shelf.

Phase 1 Marvel Cinematic Universe Blu-Ray Collector’s Set – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $150
I’m recommending this one with a caveat. If it doesn’t come with a Tesseract, skip it and buy this version from Amazon.

Thor: The Dark World Cast and Crew Tee Loki Fan Variant – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $34.99, Limited to 399 across various men’s and women’s sizes.
This shirt looks so cool. The only thing making me second guess getting it is the the $35 price tag.

Agents of SHIELD Coulson Lives T-Shirt – Marvel – Booth #1354.
Price: 19.99, Limited to 550 across various men’s and women’s sizes
Show your support to the agents of Marvel’s new hit TV show with this shirt. Coulson lives! But exactly happened in Tahiti?

Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD “Bus” Blueprint – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $12.99, Limited to 300
This is the same blueprint hanging behind Coulson’s desk on “The Bus” aka SHIELD-616, the Agents of SHIELD team’s mobile headquarters.

Captain America Hooded Scarf – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $24.99, Limited to 100
Super cute or silly? You decide!

Chew Smorgasbord Edition – Limited Red Slipcased Variant – Image Comics – Booth # 1444
Price: $100, Limited to 150
According to the NYCC website, this will only be on sale during John Layman and Rob Guillory’s signings at the Image booth and at their Artist’s Alley table. It collects the first 20 issues of Chew. There is also a non-slipcased, non-limited, black cover version of this book as well.

East of West Volume 1 Limited Edition Hardover – Image Comics – Booth #1444
Price: $40, Limited to ??
This hardcover was designed by series creator Jonathan Hickman, so it’s bound to be gorgeous.

Lazarus Volume 1 Paperback with Limited Edition Bookplate – Image Comics – Booth #1444
Price: $9.99, Limited to 200
A similar paperback with book plate was released for Saga last year at NYCC and it was sold out less than an hour into the day on Thursday. This one may not sell out as fast, but I’d be surprised if this was still available two hours into Thursday.

Star Wars R2-Q5 ARTFX+ Statue – Kotobukiya – Booth #1654
Price: $29.95, Limited to 1000
R2-Q5 has become the unofficial droid of NYCC. It was an exclusive Star Wars Christmas ornament last year, and is an exclusive ARTFX+ statue this year. I might be wrong, but I think the only thing that separates this limited edition from a similar unlimited edition is that it includes a metallic coin.

Mind MGMT Custom Dust Cover – Matt Kindt – Artist Alley H5
Price: $??, Limited to 5
Custom drawn, brown paper bag dust cover for your copy of Mind MGMT. This is one of the coolest exclusive ideas I’ve ever come across.

Takara Transformers Asian Exclusive MP-08 Masterpiece Grimlock – Lunar Toy Store – Booth #1581
Price: $??, Limited to ??
The Masterpiece Grimlock Transformer is very hard to find and when one does find it, it usually has a high price tag attached to it. From what I understand, Lunar Toy Store will have a limited supply of these on hand at a reasonable price. If you’re in the market for this figure, hit the Lunar Toy Store Booth early.

Cheetara 14″ and Snarf 5″ Deluxe 2-Pack – Mezco Toys – Booth #1855
Price: ??
Thundercats, ho! At 5″ tall, is this the biggest Snarf action figure ever?

Batman Arkham Origins Flip Up Knit Hat – Midtown Comics – Booth #1736
Price: ??
The perfect thing to wear next time you’re standing on a long line outside Midtown Comics on a cold day during a Scott Snyder signing.

NYCC 2013 Brooklyn Defender T-Shirt – NYCC Official Store – Booth #1132
Price: ??
With art by Cliff Chiang, this is easily the coolest of the NYCC 2013 t-shirts being sold directly by NYCC.

Polarity Hardcover – Boom! Studios – Booth #1344
Price: $??, Limited to 40
Boom! is selling 20 at each of the two signings they are hosting for it.

Disco Nightwing Mini-Print – Christopher Jones – Artist Alley D9
Price: FREE
All you have to do is show Christopher Jones that you follow him on Twitter or are a fan of him on Facebook and he’ll give you one of these signed Disco Nightwing mini-prints free of charge. Sweet deal!

Metallic Batman Beyond Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Fugitive Toys – Booth #410
Metallic Nightwing Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Fugitive Toys – Booth #410
Metallic Harley Quinn Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Conquest Comics – Booth #3004
Black and White Harley Quinn Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
Glow in the Dark Deadpool Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
Glow in the Dark Ghost Rider Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
The Walking Dead Bloody Rick Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
The Walking Dead Bloody Daryl Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
The Walking Dead Bloody Michonne Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Harrison’s – Booth #2254
White and Gold Phoenix Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Conquest Comics – Booth #3004
White and Black Deadpool Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Matt’s Cavalcade – Booth #3027
Stan Lee NYCC Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Conventionexclusive.com – Booth #1274 or Crazy Cat Collectibles – Booth # 1555
Unmasked Wolverine Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Toytastik.com – Booth #2544
Glow in the Dark Unmasked Wolverine Funko Pop Vinyl Figure – Toytastik.com – Booth #2544
Price: $??, Stan Lee is limited to 1000, White and Black Deadpool limited to 1500, Unmasked Wolvering limited to 1500, Glow in the Dark Unmasked Wolverine limited to 500.
If you collect Funko Pop figures, you are going to love NYCC 2013. You’ll have to travel to a few booths to catch them all. Personally, I think the Stan Lee one is the coolest.

FUNKO Batmobile – Toy Tokyo – Booth #101
Adam West-style Batman Pop Vinyl driving a 1970s tin-style Batmobile. This is all kinds of yes.

Power Rangers Tokyo Vinyl Metallic Red Ranger – Bandai – Booth #1628
Price: $??
The metallic paint job sets this figure apart from the regular version.

Hal Jordan and Saint Walker 3 3/4″ Action Figure 2-Pack – DC Comics/Graphitti Designs – Booth #755
Price: $29.95, Limited to 3000
Hal comes with a big green fist. It kind of looks like Green Lantern is wearing Hulk Hands.

Super Best Friends Forever Poison Ivy PVC Figure – DC Comics/Graphitti Designs – Booth #755
Price: $24.95, Limited to 2500
A nice companion to SDCC’s Super Best Friends Forever 3-pack.

Man of Steel Christmas Ornament – Hallmark – Booth #1554
Price: $??, Limited to 150 per day
Superman in his black costume from when he saw Zod’s nightmarish vision of the future.

Star Trek: USS Kelvin Battle Scarred Variant Christmas Ornament – Hallmark – Booth #1554
Price:??, Limited to 175 per day
From the 2009 JJ Abrams Star Trek movie. This ornament features light and sound.

Star Wars: Wrath of the Rancor Christmas Ornament – Hallmark – Booth #1554
Price: ??, Limited to 200 per day
Ever since I saw this would be a SDCC/NYCC exclusive this summer, I knew that I would be buying it at NYCC this fall.

The Ewoking Dead by Peter Goral – Tenacious Toys – Booth #208
Price: $80, Limited to 50
More than any other exclusive this year, this one made me say “WTF?!” Peter Goral has designed a Zombie Ewok action figure out of resin. The figure comes carded on a card that evokes the old Star Wars Kenner cards if they crossed with the art of The Walking Dead. The $80 price tag makes me balk, but I really want to see this in person.

Doctor Who Titans: 10th Doctor Tuxedo Variant – Titan Entertainment – Booth #2142
Price: $15, Limited to 500, Limit of 2 per customer
The Titan booth is a must stop at booth for Doctor Who fans. This variant features the 10th Doctor in his tuxedo from the 2007 Christmas special, The Voyage of the Damned. Interestingly, Titan is charging $5 for me this figure than they did at SDCC.

Doctor Who Titans: 10th Doctor Parting of the Ways Variant – Titan Entertainment – Booth #2142
Price: $15, Limited to 1000, Limit of 2 per customer
This variant has the 10th Doctor in the 9th Doctors signature outfit, right after his regeneration in The Parting of the Ways.

Doctor Who Titans: Glow in the Dark 8″ Statue of Liberty Weeping Angel – Titan Entertainment – Booth #2142
Price: $30, Limited to 700, Limit of 2 per customer
What a perfect exclusive for New York Comic Con. It’s NYC’s iconic Statue of Liberty, revealed to be a Weeping Angel, from the 2012 episode The Angels Take Manhattan. And it glows in the dark!

Breaking Bad Walter While in Green Hazmat Suit Action Figure – Mezco – Booth #1885
Price: ???
If you’re looking for a toy to flip on eBay, this might be the one. NYCC isn’t even here yet, and it’s already going
for over $90 in active auctions.

Variant Covers:
I’m not a a big fan of con-exclusive variant covers. They’re for the most part exactly the same as the standard cover, but with the con’s logo added to it. Why pay extra for that? But there are some NYCC exclusive variant covers this year that I’m digging…and one that I’m shaking my head at.

Adventure Time #20 Get a Sketch Variant – Boom! Studios – Booth #1344
$??
I’m a sucker for blank variants. I have far more than I’ll probably ever sketches on, but I can’t stop buying them.

Afterlife With Archie #1 NYCC Variant – Archie Comics – Booth #1936
$10, Limited to 350
Limit of 2 copies per person per day

Lady Death: Dragon Wars #1 Metal Edition
Price: $??, Limited to 69
Really? Limited to 69 copies? Really? Excuse me while I facepalm. SMH.

Superman/Wonder Woman #1 NYCC Variant – DC Entertainment/Graphitti Designs – Booth #755
Price: $10
The Official 2013 NYCC poster is also the cover of this variant. Is it me or does Superman look a lot like artist Paolo Rivera here?

Lazarus #1 Splash Page Comic Art Variant – Splash Page Comic Art – Booth #2405
Price: $??
This variant features a sweet wraparound cover from series artist Michael Lark.

Mars Attacks Sketch Cover – Topps – Booth #1561
Price: $??
If the listing on the NYCC website is correct, Topps artists will be on hand to draw you a sketch when you buy this variant. If that’s true, this might be a great way to get your convention sketch collection started.

Archer and Armstrong # 14 NYCC Variant – Valiant Comics – Booth #2028
Price: $??
Unlike most NYCC variants, which are just recolored covers emblazoned with the NYCC logo, this variant cover has Archer and Armstrong at NYCC. Or maybe it’s cosplayers dressed as them.

Mighty Avengers #2 Cosplay Variant – Marvel – Booth #1354
Price: $10, Limited to 2,000
Okay, this variant is definitely cosplayers, Avengers cosplayers. Avengers cosplaying other Avengers. This wins the award for Most Fun Variant Cover at NYCC 2013.