Filipinos experience “crazy” fun of Comic-con

Fans get a look at an Amazing Spider-Man exhibit on the last day of the Comic-Con International 2011 convention held in San Diego on July 24. AP

Hundreds of thousands of pop culture fanatics from near and far descended upon the streets of San Diego a few weeks ago for Comic-Con 2011.

For more than 40 years, San Diego has hosted the major convention that started as a gathering for comic books. It has now grown into one of the largest events in entertainment, offering something for just about everyone – posters, toys, and celebrities to name a few. This year’s four-day celebration from July 21 – 24 was no exception.

“It was craziness inside! There were so many people,” said Filipino-American Kristina Latonio, who promoted a television network for the weekend. “Even outside there were so many things… all the different restaurants represented different things for Comic-Con.”

As an Ice Cream Slinger for Adult Swim, Latonio served free ice cream off a truck that was sponsored by Ben & Jerry’s to draw in more viewers. The truck also hosted celebrities and allowed for fans to get up close and personal with their favorite characters outside the exhibit halls.

Latonio was able to experience the convention in a different way than before. She attended last year after just moving from New Jersey.

“It was my first time to experience something like that. It was really different and interesting because I know they have one in New York but it’s smaller,” she said.

This year she sought the opportunity to work at the event to earn extra cash for the summer. Latonio was amused by the creativity of all those who came to enjoy the convention. “It was cool seeing all the costumes. I actually saw Flash Gordon on a segway and a bunch of zombies…”

She and another Fil-Am worked beyond their ice cream duties and promoted Adult Swim in other ways. They dressed in costumes to publicize shows for the network and got behind-the-scenes insights into putting on productions for private parties.

Another Fil-Am who came dressed for the occasion was Jason Angeles and his friend Janus Victoria. The duo attended in full costume from head to toe, literally, as Spider-Man and Deadpool from Marvel. For them, it added a new perspective.

“I’ve been going to Comic-Con for three years and this was a first [dressing up]. I felt like a star!” Angeles even went so far as to say he understood what characters at Disneyland felt like after constantly being asked to pose for photos throughout the Convention Center.

They have been making the trip from San Jose year after year to experience the buzz Comic-Con generates firsthand. He said they keep coming back for the hype, excitement, and exclusive toys.

“There’s nothing like feeling like you are the first to see and experience something so fun and unique,” said Angeles. He and his friends sat in on several of the popular panels of the weekend listening to actors and directors for highly anticipated films such as the sequel for Spider-Man, “The Amazing Spider-Man”, and the remake of “Total Recall.” One of his favorite moments of Comic-Con this year was the special screening of “Captain America” with special 3D glasses and exclusive posters.

For many Fil-Am comic fans, the “Philippine Invasion” panel on Sunday allowed them to gain more knowledge about several of the pioneers in the industry. Special guests included Ernie Chan, Tony DeZuniga, Alex Nino, and Gerry Alanguilan. The discussion tapped into the talented artists from the Philippines who have made a significant impact in American comics.

Filipinos enjoyed Comic-Con 2011 from all different roles and perspectives this year. As this convention has just ended, the next one is already in the works. Comic-Con 2012 is already set for July 12 – 15. Information about Comic-Con is available at www.comic-con.org.