Comic-Con 2016

Mattel designers Bill Benecke, Steve Redinger, and Jason Langston, Four Horsemen Studios principles Jim Preziosi, Eric Treadaway, and Eric "Cornboy" Mayse, and Warner Bros. VP of global toys Julian Montoya discuss the design and creation of DC Comics Multiverse collector figures. Moderated by Daniel Pickett (Action Figure Insider).

Members of the Hasbro team discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars line. Attendees will get an in-depth look at Hasbro's latest action figure offerings. Word on the Holonet is there may also be a few surprises, including a special product reveal.

Join eFX, Gentle Giant Studios, Kotobukiya, and Sideshow Collectibles for product development insights and exclusive previews of the latest in Star Wars collectibles. Anita Castellar is a self-professed Star Wars fangirl who manages licensing for hardlines categories at Lucasfilm, such as toys, collectibles, consumer electronics, automotive, and more.

Samuel Girgis (owner of BiggerBoxModels) will discuss modeling techniques business ideas in the "Garage Kit" world. Fon Davis (25-year veteran of miniature VFX who has worked on over 25 feature films including the Star Wars series) will give you a behind-the-scenes peek at the world of practical VFX and how they fit in the digital world. Roman Dodge will share the practical uses of 3D printers in the world of "Garage Kits."

Simpsons collectors of the world, unite! Take a break from the busy convention floor and get a chance to meet and mingle with fellow collectors of Simpsons merchandise from all over the country. This gathering, hosted by the staff of the Simpsons Collectors website, is a great chance to network with other collectors and share your experiences in the hobby with others. Meet the Simpsons collectors you see on the message board and put faces to names.

Veteran designers and art directors discuss the toy making process, concepting, pitching, problem solving, packaging, and more. Get the inside track on what happens before our heroes become plastic and the trials and tribulations of the design, approval, and production of the toys and collectibles you love. AFI has gathered a diverse grouping of panelists including Jose Alvarez (senior designer, Jakks Pacific), Bill Beneke (senior project designer, Mattel), Jim Fletcher (creative director, creative services at DC Entertainment), Jean St. Jean (co-owner, head sculptor, designer at Creatureplica), Jason Langston (staff designer at Mattel), Jerry Macaluso (supervising art director, Pop Culture Shock Collectibles), and Brock Otterback (creative director, toys/collectibles, Mondo). Hosted by Daniel Pickett (ActionFigureInsider, Geek Shall Inherit Podcast).