This year's Comic-Con International brought many X-Files alumni to San Diego. Along with them, 130,000 comic book, television, movie, and genre fans descended on the city. The lines were long and the crowds impossible to navigate, but in the end, it was worth it for those who made the journey. So who was there, and what happened, you ask? Check out the breakdown after the jump.
Breaking Bad
Vince Gilligan's groundbreaking series made its first appearance at Comic-Con this year. The cast and Vince himself spoke to a packed ballroom of about 5000 fans. When they came out, they seemed to be overwhelmed by the crowd support. Things quickly lightened up though when Dean Norris came out in a Xena bikini costume and Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston appeared in biohazard suits:
They quickly settled into an amazing panel discussing some of what's to come in the fifth and final season. While there were no major spoilers, for those who wish to remain completely unaware of what's to come, it's best to stop reading now.
From the panel, we learned we'll come to know more about the German company that bankrolled Gus Fring's empire, with some scenes even taking place in Germany. There's also a lot of dark humor in the coming episodes, though that was somewhat unintentional. Aaron Paul described the season as creepy and unsettling, and Vince stated that the theme of the season would be winning and staying on top.
Any Breaking Bad fan will remember Badger and Skinny Pete; they will both be appearing again this year. In addition, we'll see more people brought into Walt's inner circle as the business is rebuilt. As for Vince, with his landmark series comes to a close, he's not sure what's in store for him. However, he's excited and hopes that the best is still to come, stating he may continue with television or even work in film.
Season five of Breaking Bad premiered this Sunday on AMC. For those who missed it, you can watch it streaming for a limited time on AMC's website. And for any who have not watched the show, now's your time to catch up and join in on what is looking to be the best season yet. You'll be hardpressed to find a better show on TV.
The Walking Dead
Everyone loved watching Laurie Holden as Marita Covarrubias, but for those who also watch The Walking Dead, they know her as Andrea, as well. Playing a tough character who has recently come into her own this past season, Laurie joined her fellow cast members for a panel in front of nearly 6000 fans.
You can watch parts one, two, and three on YouTube, and if you want to see what's to come in season three, check out the trailer here; It will premiere on October 14th on AMC. Also be on the lookout for an episode directed by X-Files producer Dan Sackheim this season.
Homeland
Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa's Homeland was raved about by fans and critics alike during its first season. The Showtime series won several awards, and season two is looking to be even more spectacular. Check out what was said at Comic-Con about filming in Israel and breaking down Carrie. The series was filming, so Alex Gansa and the rest of the cast couldn't be there, but Howard Gordon gave fans a nice sneak peak of what's to come. Look for that trailer to be out soon.
David Nutter & Terry O'Quinn
X-Files director and producer David Nutter is producing CW's new show Arrow. He also directed the pilot that premiered at Comic-Con. It looks like it's going to be an intense, action-packed new show, based on Green Arrow and the DC Comic universe. You can watch the panel for the series here. David Nutter will also be directing more episodes of Game of Thrones this season, so if you follow the show, watch for his name in the credits.
Terry O'Quinn (aka SAC Michaud aka Shadow Man aka Lt. Tillman) is starring in the new ABC show 666 Park Avenue. The pilot screened at Comic-Con, but until it premieres, you can check out the trailer here. You an also learn more about his role in this interview.
And if you're curious, you can check out a few photos from the events on our Facebook. Meanwhile, we'll be resting from this year's marathon and prepping for the next because Comic-Con isn't for the fainthearted geek.