Other Prior Events

Motor City COMICON

The Motor City Comic Convention enjoyed it's 20th Anniversary this May, and there was much celebration. With over 12,000 people in attendance, the numbers were up 25% from last year, despite the shaky Michigan economy. The convention began as a two day show at the Dearborn Civic Center in 1989 under the direction of Michael Goldman. Jeffery Serling came on board in 1991 and took the reins in 2008. The Motor City Comic Convention brings together the best comic book writers, artists and publishers as well as a wide variety of celebrities. This years guest list included numerous personalities such as Carrie Fisher (Star Wars), Doug Jones (Pan's Labyrinth), Frank Brunner (Marvel Comics), John Schneider (Dukes of Hazard), Tom Savini (Dawn of the Dead), Mike Okamoto (Lost In Space) as well as Michael Hogan and Luciana Carro from Battlestar Galactica. Serling says "The celebrities come to see their fans, sign autographs and promote what they are working on. Most seem to really enjoy the one on one interactions with their fans and with each other." This was most evident at the Motor City Comic Con Dance Party held at Novi's Doubletree Hotel, May 16th. A boisterous mix of celebrities, writers, artists, fans and industry professionals filled the ballroom and hotel bar for a night of networking, photo opportunities, dancing and diversion.

Despite lagging interest in the comic industry during the 80's and 90's there has been an upswing since 1999 when Hollywood began producing movies based on comics. Books such as "The Watchmen" have made the U.S. top ten American Literature list which now recognizes this genre as a real literary force. Hollywood seems to be paying attention too as numerous blockbuster movies have been produced this decade including Transformers, Wolverine, Spiderman and Ironman. Movie studios are taking center stage at some of the nations largest comic conventions as they have come to realize they share much the same audience.

Serling is seeking to establish communication with new movie studios in Michigan to encourage and assist them in promoting their projects at the convention and throughout the year. "We will do anything to help out business in Michigan." They are also very active in supporting charities, which is evident in their associations with organizations like the Autism Society and the Hero Initiative: a foundation for starving comic book artists whose rights or residuals have been taken away.

Motor City Comics is a Gold and Silver Age dealer specializing in comics from the 1940's to 1970's based in Farmington Hills, MI. They are active on the national comic convention circuit and as an online entity. You can find them at www.motorcityconvention.com.