UlasanAnime.com – This year’s Anime Expo (AX) revolved around the idea that while conventions may run as they always have, attendees’ perceptions and expectations can evolve. This introspection, inherent to the convention experience, can bring out the best or worst in individuals. And yes, there was a tank.
While the preceding thought might sound serious, the actual experience at AX was quite the opposite, largely due to an overwhelming schedule that left little room for somber reflection. The author was so occupied that blogging over the weekend, despite having internet access and a convenient hotel location, was impossible. Even with fellow Jt/Dtoid contributors like Hiroko and Jayson also covering the event, the author remained exceptionally busy. Despite a relatively small number of guests that genuinely captured the author’s attention this year, a significant amount of time was still spent in autograph lines, more than desired.
The experience wasn’t entirely negative, though. Excluding Sasaki’s canceled session on Sunday, which resulted in a two-hour wait for nothing as staff were unaware of the cancellation until 20 minutes past the scheduled start time, the autograph process was manageable. Obtaining a sketch from Yuasa took about 30 minutes, following a prior 30-minute wait the day before that had to be abandoned. NISA’s paid sessions streamlined the process for acquiring autographs from Okada and Ito. The new ticket system proved to be a mixed bag, but generally effective, especially for premiere members and those who could access the exhibit hall early.
On a personal note, this AX was marked by a significant loss. The author lost approximately $300 worth of camera equipment, including a substantial collection of photos, such as those from the opening ceremony. While it’s easy to focus on the silver lining—only losing half a day’s worth of photos or not having to worry as much about picture-taking for the rest of the weekend—it was still a frustrating experience. This incident serves as a prompt to upgrade the aging NEX-5. For the remainder of the convention, photos were taken using someone else’s camera, specifically a NEX-7, allowing for a test drive of the model.
Good Smile Company (GSC) was undoubtedly the MVP of the Exhibit Hall. Beyond their usual popular toy merchandise, they offered three Huke doujinshi and an extensive collection of ufotable event goods from their ACE and Machi Asobi events. The Little Witch Academia merchandise was also a notable presence. The sight of Machi Asobi pamphlets from previous years provided a sense of the event’s history. The author acquired an unusual towel that functions more like a hoodie, which proved to be excellent impromptu rave gear.
In related news, RAM RIDER made an appearance.
Carat/Aya Ikeda had a booth, as did Starmarie. Porno Graffiti also had a booth, though the author was unable to locate it.
Animate and Tora no Ana were present in the dealer’s room this year, but with limited offerings. Pony Canyon also had a booth, among numerous other smaller vendors.
The author missed an iM@S gathering at the Bamco booth due to a press-related commitment, which was an unfortunate oversight.
This was the first AX attended where the author chose not to participate in “Meet the Guests” events, unlike the previous year when no such event was held. It remains uncertain if this was the optimal decision, but it was likely preferable to the plan for Sunday morning, which was abandoned due to the $80 ticket price and a minor technical issue with ordering it.
The most noteworthy event at the convention was arguably the Sentai Filmworks activities. Aniplex hosted a strong lineup of panels, and Funimation presented a series of industry-fan discussions that could be streamed. Daisuki and AnimeSols were also present, as usual. Quarkboy was spotted, but a direct interaction was forgone as both were in the same queue. However, none of these compared to the experience of waiting in line for a Shinkai autograph while being served free alcohol, which was described as hilarious. Unfortunately, this meant attendees under 21 could not partake, a situation expected to be resolved in the coming years.
The Charity Auction at AX this year was perceived as somewhat lackluster, unless significant items were missed. A staffer vest signed by multiple individuals sold for only $200, which was considered quite low. The higher-value items included Fate/Zero chalk drawings and similar pieces.
The Artist Alley (AA) remained consistent with previous years, though the quality of artwork appeared to have improved. Similar to the crowding in the dealer’s room and certain hallways in the West Hall, the increase in attendees was palpable.
Guests:
RAM RIDER was his characteristic energetic self. While Skirt Disco was not seen, Starmarie was only briefly encountered. Carat was described as fabulous and musically engaging, with the concept of a “DJ” as a musical inspiration being particularly interesting, especially in the context of Miku at an idol show.
Aya Ikeda was likened to a family-friendly, highly polished version of Aya Hirano, earning significant praise and sparking an interest in watching Precure.
The author identified Kikuchi as the MVP guest of the year. While his panel report, available on ANN, was described as dry, the experience of it was likened to being struck by lightning. Kikuchi’s appreciation for Hiromi was a notable point. Joking aside, Mari Okada was considered the true MVP guest, delivering an experience that met expectations and providing entertaining anecdotes about her lighthearted personality.
Makoto Shinkai was as amiable as ever. An awkward comment was made about Amazon’s pricing for his book, to which he responded by asking if the autographed copy was purchased from Amazon, which the author found amusing, especially considering the three drinks consumed at the time.
Both Huke and Sasaki were noted for their approachable demeanor and willingness to sign numerous autographs. Sasaki, in particular, spent hours creating many sketches.
Yuasa was described as boyishly shy, which was found to be endearing and reminiscent of artist friends. His ability to produce genius work from seemingly simple drawings was highlighted.
Noizi Ito was perceived as a more typical “bunkagu shoujo” type of guest, and it was hoped she was accustomed to such events. The interpreter for her panels, and also for Okada’s panel, was noted as being subpar.
Despite the positive experiences, there was a list of guests the author wished to have spoken with, including Otsuka from Trigger and individuals from Production IG. The possibility of attending “Meet the Guests” after all was considered. The author also reiterated interest in PORNO PORNO PORNO.
Kazuhiko Inoue maintained his usual graceful presence. A write-up is pending, and an interview was secured, which is expected to be engaging.
As is customary, many Japanese executives, producers, and other “guests” attended AX without significant fanfare, which the author attributed to the typical AX experience.
The Vocaloid guests received an autograph session this year. The “Mirai ni Neiro” panel 1 was an incognito vocaloid concert without the usual concert trappings. In retrospect, it would have been more logical to hold the Crypton panel on Day 4, preceding the vocaloid panels on Day 3. The author expressed excitement about the English version of Miku, noting Saki Fujita’s apparent hard work.
Loot:
Barrels were acquired, and something was won from MG. The author also managed to acquire two copies of “Psychoelectric Girl” under unclear circumstances. A Yuu Asakawa photo was received from a friend who obtained it at Acen, prompting a desire to reconnect with those who attended that event.
The $60 wall scroll, while expensive, was considered worth the price due to its high-quality material. The plastic tube could have been better. Compared to a $60 scroll from a PA Works event, this one was slightly superior in quality, though marginally smaller. The author felt tempted to purchase the OreImo scroll as well.
A shout-out was given to all the individuals with whom the author interacted, including waves, greetings, handshakes, and exchanges of names or business cards, marking the extent of social interaction at AX.
FOOD CON
Jougasaki’s unique sushi wraps were a personal favorite. The fried spicy tuna roll was enjoyable, though it could have been fried longer. The “3 chiles” special was noted for its pleasant spiciness, with the crab filling complementing it well. A burger from the Trailer Park truck was also sampled; its special sauce was reminiscent of Schnipper’s. Bool’s namesake burrito was surprisingly more “raw” than expected, lacking the typical Korean-flavored grease found in establishments like Korilla. It was distinctly fresh and crisp, featuring BBQ beef slices, with the juice originating more from pickled vegetables than the meat.
Food trucks were abundant. Four were positioned outside the South Hall entrance, and two to three were located in the back deck area by the West Hall, including a lobster roll truck on one day and other options on different days. Additional food trucks were situated across the street in a lot diagonally opposite the South Hall entrance.
For dinner, the following options were explored:
Bottega Louie received a positive recommendation for its French-style American cuisine. The veal and portobello fries were highly recommended. The seafood pasta was considered average, and the macarons, while good, were deemed a bit pricey at $2.50 each.
Rock N Fish served as a backup plan after the Porno Graffiti show when Yard House was overcrowded. The Hawaiian-style ribeye was decent but not exceptional, and the gumbo might have been a better choice. The steak, ordered medium-rare, had a texture similar to candy jerky. The dish was pricey and unremarkable, comparable in price and quality to Yard House. The sweet potato fries were a highlight.
El Rocoto, located in Gardena near a Daiso, was found to be both hearty and delicious. This Peruvian restaurant was considered excellent for its affordable price range. The dish, similar to paella, was satisfying, and the lomo saltado was highly recommended. The green sauce offered a pleasant kick.
Men-oh, a SoCal ramen chain, was described as solid and as expected. Its simple yet full-bodied flavor exemplified Tokushima-style ramen, making it a good entry-level choice. The pickled sprouts were a favorite add-in, a welcome change from establishments where meat dominates. The pork cuts, though cheaper, were flavorful and contributed to a classy, homely style. The Little Tokyo branch was noted for its limited space but adequate seating capacity.
A Korean BBQ (KBBQ) place was visited, offering AYCE for $20 per person, which was considered good value. The experience in Koreatown after midnight on July 4th involved pork and a uniquely shaped beer glass.
A long-standing booth at AX sells chibi moe fanart on white t-shirts. The author possesses a Hisui one from their first AX. This year, the booth expanded to include beer glasses, one featuring a Marisa design, which the author would have purchased if not for the character’s presence, acknowledging the ZUN reference.
The author inquired about meeting attendees at Otakon.
*The term “doujinshi” in this context referred to Comiket industry booth-style goods, such as illustration books. Volume 2 of the Steins;Gate artwork was particularly praised.
BONUS: Leftover cosplay pictures are available, with more featured in the Jtor link provided earlier (or here). The CNN guy was also encountered, for those interested.
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