28-07-2025
Comic-Con 2025: Major Moments, Reveals and Exclusive Drops
There are comic cons and then there's COMIC-CON in San Diego (SDCC). Considered the American mecca for comic book lovers and the unofficial stomping grounds of comic-related film announcements, it's a world unto itself. Founded in 1970, today—it now sees nearly 150,000 attendees through its convention doors in San Diego.
There's a multitude of panels, showcases, costume galas, cosplay and much more. Within the framework of memorabilia, films, fashion, and all things fanfare—these are some of the most compelling news and insights that you can take advantage of, regardless if you were in attendance or not.
'Space Batman' by Bill Sienkiewicz, 2025 — has retuned from the International Space Station. Bill Sienkiewicz
What: The caped crusader AKA Bill Sienkiewicz's, and his 'Space Batman' watercolor art, has returned from its month-long residency aboard the International Space Station.
Why this matters: Per Dent/ The Future (an organization that fosters groundbreaking ideas and community collaboration), the act attempts to level the playfield of entry into outer space, 'sending Batman to space represents something significant: the normalization of space access. When artists can send their work to orbit, when small organizations can navigate NASA partnerships, when the barrier to entry drops from billions to thousands of dollars, we're witnessing a fundamental shift in how humans interact with space,' - per the company. For more details on their mission, visit the website HERE.
The museum's complex will include galleries, two theaters, a library, restaurant, café, retail store, and community spaces. Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
What: Famous filmmaker George Lucas made his first-time appearance at San Diego Comic-Con. He was on a panel alongside Academy award-winning director Guillermo del Toro and Academy award-winning artist Doug Chiang (moderated by Queen Latifah) to give fans a sneek peak of the immersive 'Lucas Museum of Narrative Art', slated for a 2026 opening.
Why: 'Society is held together by stories,' says Lucas. He has been collecting paintings, murals, illustrations, comics, digital media, and sculptures for over 50 years. Now, it's all soon-to-be housed inside a 300,000 space in Los Angeles (conceived by architect Ma Yansong), this personal collection of over 40,000 pieces is intended to be a love letter to art in all its manifestations. In showcasing everything from Norman Rockwell to Charles Schulz, Lucas's idea is to tap into human emotions/connections in response to this visual storytelling. Instead of ranking art types in terms of one being superior to the other—he says that his intention is to democratize the landscape and set the tone for making it accessible to everyone. 'It's a temple to the people's art,' Lucas adds. To stay up to date on the news and the grand opening, visit the website HERE. 3. Archie Versus Minor Threats Launches Bold Comic Book Crossover
Archie vs. Minor Threats #1 (of 4) lands at your LCS August 6th. Minor Threats / Dark Horse Comics
What: An all-star team of writers and artists come together for the ultimate collaboration in the comic book world with 'Archie vs. Minor Threats': 'it shouldn't work, but it does,' says Timmy Heague. He joins Patton Oswalt and Jordan Blum on writing duties for this mash-up miniseries that pits the wide-eyed teens of Archie against the edgy supervillains from the Minor Threats universe. This zany juxtaposition is bolstered with narrative flashbacks from Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of the gang vis-a-vis their most iconic looks since the comic was founded in A-line skirts and wide-legged trousers of the 40s to the chic/grunge aesthetic of the 1990s and beyond—all conceived by artist Scott Koblish—who deftly balances the modern with the vintage.
Why this matters: Blending legacy characters with the dynamism of new ones brings about not only a nostalgic revival to longstanding Archie fans, but entices new people to learn about this beloved gang. Meanwhile, the Minor Threats universe is the perfect playground to host all of these misadventures and shenanigans—it solidifies the idea that for indie comics and publishers like Dark Horse, everything is fluid and that it's fun to take risks (as well as tap into one's creativity with these types of parameters in place). With the larger picture in mind—perceiving 'challenges' as opportunities means that this kind visual storytelling can take us beyond classic superhero narratives and tropes.
August 6, 2025 is when 'Archie vs. Minor Threats #1 (of 4) ' will be available in comic shops. It is currently available for pre-order from your local comic shop for $4.99. 4. Archie Versus Minor Threats Launches Bold Comic Book Crossover
Popmart activation at SDCC 2025 is centered around the idea of the American road-trip and making those iconic gas station pit-stops. Popmart
What: The iconic 'American road trip' makes a pit-stop to all things cute, cuddly, and collectable. Pop Mart, a global designer of collectables IP brand at the crossroads of art, fashion and culture—has debuted their 'Play Stop'—a play off of iconic gas station/refuelling spots that dot the US roadways, but stationed at San Diego Comic Con. 'Play Stop' unveiled exclusives, first-to-market releases, and beloved characters that are available for purchase beyond the con. This includes their 'DUCKOO' Fountain figure; and 'Nyota is Amor' Figure—but if you're not attending the con, they still have items they've launched here that you can snag afterwards. This includes Mega Molly Hot Wheels (400% size); Star Wars Bobble Head Series Figures; Nota Love Comes with the Wind Figure; and Peach Riot Carry The Music Series Pop Block Pendant. Lastly, they've debuted 6 new colorways for their Labubus—currently, a breakout phenomenon that everyone is talking about.
Why this matters: It's a brand that's been able to capture the vitality and imaginations of young and old alike. Even in a saturated market, they've been able to rise to the top of the competition—but it's not been an overnight success (contrary to popular belief). The build in the United States has been slow and methodical. In fact, the Labubu dolls and their respective lore have existed for a decade now. It's a testament to the company in its ability to weave a relevant and relatable narrative with consumers—and why it is currently one of those most highly sought after dolls. Visit the Pop Mart website for the entire roster of collectible drops. 5. Neopets Revival Taps Nostalgia with Wearable Merch Line
Neopet x Steady Hands collaboration. Steady Hands
What: Neopets, the virtual pet game (akin to a Tamagotchi but you can customize your critter with digital food, toys, clothing and more — to keep them content) is experiencing a heartfelt revival. With new and returning users, players can actually reclaim their old accounts—tapping into a nostalgic and childhood wellspring. Driving community is at the heart of their every goal. Chatting with me at their SDCC booth, CEO Dominic Law says that their 'world-building' includes mindful collaborations that extend into wearable merchandise such as their line of sweaters, bags, and accessories done conjunction with Steady Hands.
Why: Launched in 1999, the Neopets is now feeling the love with its longstanding community—and they are returning the affection by partnering with local enterprises to tap into 'fandom' culture—with opportunities to quite literally 'wear' one's hobbies on their sleeves. It's another way Gen Z are showcasing their authentic selves and essentially putting a radar on themselves to attract their 'tribe' in the real world. All collection pieces can be found HERE and the Neopets website is HERE. 6. Old Spice Teams up with DC for Superman Grooming Collection
Old Spice x Superman limited edition bath and body collection for men. Old Spice
What: According to Old Spice, Superman apparently smells like Bright Citrus and the Cosmos. The company collaborated with DC Comics to develop a limited edition line of deodorant, body wash, and shampoo products for men. To further celebrate this collection and the new Superman movie — they had an AR 'crash site' experiential capsule at Comic-Con to 'unlock a portal to Krypton'—AKA a fun way to get a sample of the deodorant and allow fans to smell and snap selfies with it.
Why: Brand collaborations are no surprise but the right alignment (and timing) makes all the difference. Capitalizing from the extreme popularity and exposure from the film, coupled with the fact that men's 'beauty' care regimes are still in its infancy with American men—compared to the comprehensive ones that South Korean men exercise (as a prime example)—makes this a great 'gateway' into beauty products and self-care routines for the masses (at an affordable price). Shop the collection HERE. 7. Star Wars and RockLove Debut Galactic Forge Jewelry Line
Exclusive collaboration drop with Star Wars and RockLove Jewelry with Galactic Forge. RockLove Jewelry
What: The force is with founder Allison Cimino and her women-owned and operated traceable metal jewelry that's rife in sophisticated yet affordable fandom. At her SDCC booth, they offered attendees an exclusive treat—in a rare blessing from LucasFilms, they were allowed to laser engrave names in Aurebesh into their sterling silver and brass bracelets via their latest collection drop ' Galactic Forge'. While the engraving was only available during Comic-Con, fans can still peruse the new 'Galactic Forge' collection to showcase their fandom of Star Wars. To add personalization and embellishment, RockLove has also created 'Enhancers' AKA double-sided charms with motifs that die-hard fans will appreciate (e.g. Star Wars easter eggs); and the look is completed with Swarovski crystals.
Why : Per Cimino, fandom jewelry is oftentimes cheaply made and littered with harmful/ allergy-inducing metals (that cause rashes, as an example). Cimino is not only elevating this style of jewelry-crafting but making the price-point accessible and affordable. She also asserts that despite the optics of working with major brands, they are very much a boutique enterprise—the exposure from Comic-Con is immense and the support from regular customers and new ones is appreciated. Shop the new collection HERE. 8. Her Universe Fashion Show Celebrates Fandom and Design Talent
Fire in My Blood Design by Leah Mednick. Mark Edwards Photography
What: The 11th annual 'Her Universe Fashion Show' presented by Universal happened on July 24th. The theme was 'Defying Fashion: Fashion That Defies Expectations.' In honor of this, founder Ashley Eckstein floated down the runway in a Glinda-inspired ensemble created by Andrew MacLaine. Her and co-host Michael James Scott celebrated the procession of talents that debuted their looks. This year's two winning designers will get the opportunity to design their own fashion collection with Her Universe along with receiving a $2000 cash prize. The winner (as chosen by the judges) is Lynleigh Sato from Redondo Beach, CA; and the second winner (as chosen by the audience) is Caitlin Beards, Randolph, NJ. The collections will be sold at retail and online in 2026.
Why: Founder Ashley Eckstein says that this fashion show spearheads the importance of investing in your community and to nourish it, 'when I founded Her Universe, we had a strict 'community first' rule and The Her Universe Fashion Show is a love letter to our fans and our mission. Our show proves that when you do the right thing for your consumer, it pays dividends.' James Scott adds that this event (hosted at one of the biggest 'fandom' platforms in the world) gives a necessary spotlight to emerging talents and giving them an incredible launching pad to the world of fashion merchandising, 'these talented designers get to really think outside the box and what a beautiful lesson for not only for these designers but for all of us to be inspired by. Fashion is limitless and so let's all defy gravity and party the only way the Her Universe Fashion Show community knows how while we're at it.' Shop all current designs and collaborations HERE 9. Fantastic Four Collectibles from Loungefly and Funko Sell Out Fast
Limited Edition/ SDCC Exclusive Faux leather Fantastic Four backpack inspired by the film hero uniform. Includes detachable enamel pin. Marvel/ Loungefly
What: To honor the excitement and fanfare of 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' film which just landed in theaters July 25th, Marvel has collaborated with Loungefly, a shop dedicated to 'high quality, innovative fashion that blends style with fandom... with a story behind every seam,'—and coveted items like SDCC Limited Edition Fantastic Four Uniform Full-Size Backpack with Pin; Fantastic Four H.E.R.B.I.E. Cosplay Mini Backpack; BITTY POP! Fantastic Four First Steps 4- Pack; and Pop! Fantastic Four H.E.R.B.I.E bobblehead are up for grabs.
Why: Film and wearable fandom go hand in hand (and isn't a new phenomenon)—particularly when it's a SDCC exclusive, the hysteria level goes through the roof. However, it's the quality that has grown exponentially— where once you could only find standard t-shirts and hats, the diversity of products has gotten not only more intricate but is offered at a reasonable price point (e.g. $14.99 - $100), making entry and access easier than ever. See the product range HERE. 10. Peacemaker and McFarlane Toys Reveal Exclusive Action Figures
Peacemaker x McFarlane Toys exclusive drop includes figurines, t-shirts, and collectable pins. DC/ Warner Bros.
What: Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products unveiled exclusive merchandise ahead of the second season premiere of 'Peacemaker' which debuts on HBO August 21st—of which the cast and crew (Director James Gunn; actor John Cena) were present to talk about at a highly coveted panel during SDCC. The licensed merchandise includes t-shirts that the company says channels a chaotic/rock-glam aesthetic. Meanwhile, McFarlane Toys offered SDCC attendees a first-glimpse their new seven-inch action figure, where pre-orders are now open to everyone HERE.
Why: The subculture of comic book figurines makes this a show pony must-have piece. Designed with Ultra Articulation (action figures with a high degree of detail, movability and/or dynamic displays)— this Peacemaker creation includes a wealth of accessories that include Eagly, three interchangeable helmets, an unmasked head portrait, and more. McFarlane Toys also is offering exclusive pins and 'Peacemaker' t-shirts for purchase. To see the collection, visit the website HERE.
