San Diego, California: The 52nd Comic Con International was different from the San Diego comic cons of the recent past — the actors and writers' strike is ongoing with no end in sight, leaving a minimal Hollywood presence. Hall H is no longer 'the worst line in fandom.' Gone is the overnight 'camping' out to see the cast, showrunners and directors of the biggest movies and TV shows.

For years, I sat, stood, kept vigil and ate breakfast in that line. I was regularly rewarded by very exciting panels in a highly packed and charged room of 6,500 eager fans.