This past weekend in Houston could be described as magical in many ways. Fans that attended Fandemic Convention were graced with a hobbit, some “Buffy” alumni, a couple of wizards, and the “Winter Soldier.” Bringing a different type of magic to the table was Milo Ventimiglia and Scott Patterson for a “Gilmore Girls” panel; Jon Bernthal, Pollyanna McIntosh, and Cooper Andrews for a “Walking Dead” panel; and some WWE Superstars. The convention held Oct. 18-20, 2019 was wonderful in catering to many different fandoms and having a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere for an event.
There were great exhibitors and artists to check out in between photos, autos, and panels. Just as you walked in, there were…wait for it…LIGHTSABERS for sale! I may or may not have had to be talked out of buying one. Another weakness of mine was displayed right next to the lightsabers. Some great authors were there to discuss their books as well as a large group of incredible artists who are all magicians in my mind. And, of course, what would a con be without the cosplayers? One of my favorite moments at the convention was watching two children excited to take a photo with “Deadpool” and “Spiderman”.
The celebrity guests also did not disappoint. Sean Astin was passionate and interesting during his panel, while still entertaining con-goers. Who would imagine any less from a man with such a well-rounded resume? He talked about his time filming “Stranger Things” and how he really wanted his character to do something heroic.
Fans of the show, Buffy, were delighted to watch a panel of many beloved characters (and a few not so loved). James Marsters (Spike), Juliet Landau (Drusilla), Claire Kramer (Glory), Emma Caulfield (Anya), Amber Benson (Tara), and James Leary (Clem) all graced the stage to discuss this iconic television show that we still celebrate today.
They were asked about their philanthropic causes and one resounding thing they wanted fans to take away from the panel was to be kind to others. James Leary also discussed how the fandom has helped many (including him) to not feel alone. He, along with a few others, had a separate panel on how fandoms save lives. This panel hit close to home for me and was a wonderful addition to this convention.
The Phelps twins were enchanting, as expected, discussing their pranks on the set of “Harry Potter” (oh, how life imitates art) and that dreaded death scene in which James was actually asleep during the filming.
Fans of “Gilmore Girls” gathered to see the men of Stars Hollow as well as discuss the other roles Milo and Scott have brought to life. Milo was asked a few questions about his character, Jack, from This is Us as well. The guys discussed their favorite scenes to film together too. Does anyone remember the scene where Luke pushed Jesse into the lake? That only took one take and was a favorite scene for both actors.
Finally, many fans gathered into the panel room to watch Sebastian Stan discuss his role of Bucky Barnes AKA the winter soldier. He discussed the best advice he has gotten from an acting coach which was, “Put love into every character.” Which, as he put it, can sometimes be difficult because actors don’t always play a good guy, but it is important to humanize each character and put love into the craft and the character. He also briefly mentioned his new show, “Falcon and the Winter Soldier” to venture down the path we were left for those characters after End Game. We can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.
There were many other fun and exciting things happening at the convention that con-goers could easily get wrapped up in and enjoy. The convention center had coffee and food options available for the fans which made life easier, and probably less grumpy if we’re being honest. This con-goer is looking forward to seeing what Fandemic has in store for us next year for Houston.
Written by Alicia Barr
