This weekend the Dallas Comic Show returns with a special Fantasy Festival convention, August 25-26 at the Premier Event Center in Lewisville, Texas. They’ve assembled a really fun and eclectic mix of guests, featuring comic book creators from some important series, and cool celebrities including a few you don’t see doing comic cons very often. We’re here to give you the rundown on who you should make an effort to meet, and why they’re particularly interesting. Keep in mind, this isn’t the whole list, there’s more coming to the show, and lots to do and see there two. The event is two days, with Q&A panels on both days, a costume contest on Saturday, and a 28,000 square foot vendor hall loaded with collectibles. The best part is admission is very reasonable, especially for an event like this. If you’ve been scared off by the pricing on similar events, then this is the show for you. For a full guest list and information on tickets, which you can buy in advance or at the door, please visit the official show website. All guests are scheduled to attend both days unless otherwise noted.
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Terry Moore – 25 years ago, the comic book industry was being inundated with creator-owned properties, many in the form of hot new books with flashy art and bright colors, and during a “speculator boom” where fans were buying ten copies of a first issue thinking they might get rich a few years later. While that was happening, a humble creator named Terry Moore was hitting conventions in and around his home state of Texas promoting his comic book STRANGERS IN PARADISE. It was a tough start, a harder sell as the book wasn’t about superheroes, rather a relationship drama with just the right amount of humor and shock value. When it caught on, it caught on BIG TIME. Within a year or so the first issue was selling for upwards to $100 or more, and people couldn’t get enough of the series. This year it celebrates its 25th Anniversary, making Moore’s appearance in Dallas (one of the first places he premiered the book) that much more special. Terry has also done work with Marvel Comics, and other creator-owned titles like MOTOR GIRL, ECHO and RACHEL RISING. Hollywood is eventually going to make some of these books into movies or TV shows, it’s in the works, so make an effort to meet Mr. Moore now while he’s still fairly approachable.
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Tim Bradstreet – this man redefined Marvel’s popular character The Punisher, doing covers for countless issues, and showing Frank Castle in a gritty and realistic way that finally made that character seem to make perfect sense. Bradstreet’s photo-realistic cover work has made him a fan favorite with many, and he’s had healthy runs on titles like HELLBLAZER, BLADE and the current series PESTILENCE. The actors who have played The Punisher on both the big screen and small screen have credited Tim with helping them understand what that character is really about, all through his dynamic visuals. Bradstreet even designed the theatrical poster campaigns for THE PUNISHER (2004), through that experience became good friends with actor Thomas Jane, and the two have become business partners releasing multiple comic books under their RAW Studios banner. Tim has cut down many of his show appearances lately, and this is his first time back in Dallas in over seven years, so don’t miss your chance to chat with him in person.
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Ben Templesmith – widely known as the co-creator of the vampire series 30 DAYS OF NIGHT, which was made into a major motion picture, Ben is one of the most interesting artists working in comics today. His style is moody and sometimes shocking, often leaving a big impression with readers. He’s worked for big publishers like IDW, Dark Horse and DC Comics, and produced some creator-owned work as well, always staying busy delivering something new and interesting. Recent books like CHOKER and the WORMWOOD series are very much worth a look. Templesmith hasn’t been to Dallas in years, and is frequently requested by fans, so this is sure to be a popular appearance and one you won’t want to miss.
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Georges Jeanty – if you’re a comic book artist, there are certain properties you’d consider a dream to work on, but it’s particularly fun when those properties are hit television series and fan-favorite movies. Atlanta-based Georges Jeanty has done countless issues of the BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER comic series, some under the writing of creator Joss Whedon himself. But as if that’s not cool enough, he’s also done multiple issues of the SERENITY comic books, based on the cult classic Sci-Fi series FIREFLY. Jeanty has contributed covers to comics for THE GUILD, and done work like BISHOP and WEAPON X for Marvel. His work on Oscar-winner John Ridley’s AMERICAN WAY comic book may soon be seen getting a major Hollywood treatment, with Ridley at the helm. Make sure to chat with Georges at the con, he’s as friendly as he is talented.
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Mark A. Nelson – when Dark Horse Comics hit the scene in the mid-1980s, one of their biggest hits was the comics based on the James Cameron movie ALIENS. The man who illustrated those books is Mark A. Nelson, utilizing incredibly details illustrations and moody character work. The books were an instant hit, taking many by surprise. Hard to imagine making that property even cooler than it already was. In the years that followed, Nelson took his art to extreme next levels, producing jaw-dropping painting and illustrations that have left many floored. He’s become a mentor to many aspiring artists, helping them find out ways to break the perceived limitations of their talent. When many artists find themselves slowing down as they age, Mark proves that doesn’t have to be the case, as he continues to wow folks with his stellar work.
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James O’Barr – known as the creator and artist of THE CROW, which was made into a major motion picture starring Brandon Lee, and spawned multiple sequels, a television series, along with statues and comic book follow-ups. James is a fascinating creative force with so much to say in his art, yet he’s incredibly humble and easy to talk to. O’Barr had a difficult life at times, but channels his feelings into his artwork, which is stunning to take in. It’s not wonder he’s developed fans worldwide who can’t get enough of him in person. James is a frequent guest at Dallas Comic Show event, partly because he loves the old school vibe where comic book creators are treated like the rock stars they really are. If you’ve never met him, or even if you have, make sure to say hi this weekend.
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Chiara Bautista – some artists are reclusive and rarely make public appearances, and some are practically considered urban myths as they’re so off the grid and hard to find. Chiara has developed an enormous following across the globe thanks to posting her breathtaking artwork online. But she very rarely meets the public, as for her sharing the art is more about the art itself and not monetary gain. That said, some folks would almost kill to purchase one of her art prints, or just have a chance to talk to her in person and thank her for the years of contributions online. This is her only U.S. convention appearance in 2018, an exceedingly rare opportunity to catch her in the flesh, and maybe even walk away with something to hang on your wall. If you don’t know her work, you should, and if you do meet her this Saturday or Sunday, you’ll be the envy of many around the world.
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Liz Wrightson – in April of 2016, legendary comic book artist Bernie Wrightson attending the first Dallas Comic Show event in Richardson, which would be one of his final convention appearances. The beloved co-creator of SWAMP THING and artist of the cherished FRANKENSTEIN art book passed away last year after a brave battle with cancer, and many in the industry still feel the loss and mourn losing such a wonderful and talented soul. His wife Liz Wrightson is joining Dallas Comic Show once again, representing Bernie’s estate and bringing with her some artwork, a personal inventory of art prints, and maybe even a few books from the private collection. This is a chance for fans to share stories of meeting Bernie, and their love of his work in the industry. And once you meet Liz, you’ll immediately know why Bernie fell in love with her, and why they were perfect together at conventions.
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Sam de la Rosa – with Sony about to release its big budget VENOM movie starring Tom Hardy, it’s important to make note of the creators behind the comics it’s based on. Sam rose to fame as an artist and inker on books like PREDATOR for Dark Horse, and SPIDER-MAN for Marvel Comics, but his series VENOM: LETHAL PROTECTOR is now hugely important as it’s serving as the basis for the story in the VENOM movie. Sam is always happy to meet his fans and share stories of his many years working in comics, and when you realize just how much work he’s done, it’s impossible not to be impressed. Ask him what he thinks of the rumors floating about with the movie, he’s got some interesting theories to share.
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Mark Pillow – known for playing “Nuclear Man” in SUPERMAN IV: THE QUEST FOR PEACE, Mark was an unknown model trying to break into acting in 1987, when he won the role of Lex Luthor’s genetically-created monstrosity. The film had its problems, mostly thanks to a budget cut in half by the producers of Canon Pictures, but the heart of it is still there thanks to Christopher Reeve’s final earnest performance at The Man of Steel. And Pillow not only shares many battle scenes with Reeve, he also worked side by side with both Gene Hackman and a young Jon Cryer. Not a bad gig for a first-time actor. Mark didn’t stay in Hollywood though, after a single episode of the cult classic series WISEGUY, his only other acting credits were starring in the lead of a Russian/Polish/German production of ALASKA KID based on the writing of Jack London. These days he specializes in selling some of the finest wines in the world, and doesn’t make many signing appearances, so this is a rare chance to meet him in person. Mark is also doing a live audio commentary at the show, instead of a standard Q&A, and we can only imagine the stories he’ll have to tell.
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Sherilyn Fenn – she’s become known as the seductive Audrey Horne on David Lynch’s TWIN PEAKS, a role she recently revisited in the revival on Showtime. Fenn has starred in some very interesting films and TV productions, everything from 1980s popcorn classics like THRASHIN’, THE WRAITH and JUST ONE OF THE GUYS, to more provocative fare like BOXING HELENA and RUBY. She almost played The Joker’s love interest Harley Quinn, shooting scene for the BIRDS OF PREY pilot that wasn’t officially aired, even though the series did come to fruition for one season. Sherilyn has had recurring roles on series like GILMORE GIRLS and S.W.A.T., and recently appeared in the horror movie WISH UPON. A fan-favorite actress, it’s always interesting seeing what she’s been working on, and she’s sure to be a hit at the con.
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Terry Notary – remember when you first started to known the name Andy Serkis, or really started to understand and appreciate the fine art of motion capture in cinema? While Serkis may have the name recognition, Notary has been there by his side almost as long, and when you look at his numerous credits, it just gets more and more impressive. His most recent work was playing Groot in AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR (officially the biggest movie of all time) and he’ll be back in the sequel, but that’s not the only cool pop culture character he’s taken on. Notary did mo-cap for both Hulk and The Abomination in THE INCREDIBLE HULK (2008), was Kong in KONG: SKULL ISLAND, starred as “Rocket” in all three of the new PLANET OF THE APES movies, and was a movement coach on films like SUPERMAN RETURNS and ATTACK THE BLOCK. But if you really want to see just how impressive he can be, watch his haunting performance in the recent Oscar buzz film THE SQUARE, in which Terry enters a room (shirtless) filled with wealthy socialites, and proceeds to act like an ape, freaking everyone on screen out… and everyone in the audience to boot. This is a rare chance to meet one of cinema’s modern masters. Side note – Terry is doing a special mo-cap workshop and Q&A Friday night at Alamo Drafthouse in Denton, tickets and info on their website.
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Yancy Butler – she’s conquered films and television, holding her own with action stars like Jean Claude Van Damme in John Woo’s HARD TARGET (which celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year) and Wesley Snipes in DROP ZONE, but Butler won the hearts of comic book fans playing tough cop Sara Pezzini in the TNT series WITCHBLADE (based on the popular Top Cow series). She’s since starred in both KICK-ASS movies, and a few of the LAKE PLACID spin-off sequels. But the real reason to meet Yancy is her personality, as she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll interact with in person, just down to earth and lovely. You can tell she genuinely loves her fans, and that’s sometimes a rare thing in this business.
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Mark Ryan – in the early 1980s, Ryan became known for his work as “Nasir” on the British-produced ROBIN OF SHERWOOD television series, becoming an instant fan-favorite. Later in life he found a new and very passionate fan base providing voice work for the Michael Bay TRANSFORMERS movies, in which he’s voiced Bumblebee, Jetfire and Lockdown. He had a starring role as “Gates” in the fan-favorite series BLACK SAILS too, and will soon be seen in the Mike Leigh movie PETERLOO. But his cool factor doesn’t stop there, he’s also mastered performing pantomime (or “panto”) theatre, and the art of tarot. Is that not enough to impress you? Well get this, he’s written a Green Arrow Annual for DC Comics, and his own comic book Pilgrim for IDW Publishing. Add to that Mark being a wonderful person to chat with, very warm and welcoming, and you’ve got a must-meet guest for sure.
Dallas Comic Show’s Fantasy Festival is being held this weekend, August 25-26 and the Premier Event Center in Lewisville, Texas. Show hours are Saturday 11am to 7pm, and Sunday 11am to 5pm. For a full guest list and information on tickets, which you can buy in advance or at the door, please visit the official show website. All guests are scheduled to attend both days unless otherwise noted.
