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Note: Event organizers scheduled the screening of another film in place of "Give 'Em Hell Malone" which was scheduled to screen at 6 p.m. Saturday.
LONG BEACH, Calif. -- Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger might not have been happy with the Predator taking pictures with children on Saturday.
But he could rest assured that no child was harmed at the Long Beach Convention Center as the Long Beach Comic Con continued its fanboy reign on the city.
Attendance for Saturday's events was higher than Friday's likely because of the longer schedule of shows and events.
Many of the attendees, some dressed as their favorite comic book heroes and villains, were surprised at the success the first-year event was experiencing.
"It's doing good for its first year," Stephanie Gutierrez said. "In San Diego, you can stand for hours and still miss a panel. Here it seems a little more personal."
Saturday's highlights included several panel discussions for fans, including one for the popular Cartoon Network show "Robot Chicken."
The panel discussion featured the creative staff of the show, including creator and actor Seth Green.
After the discussion, many of the speakers expressed their views on the first-year event.
"It's really great to see that they put the artists
"It's less crowded here than New York and San Diego and that's a plus," Green said.
Comic book icon DC Universe also participated in its own panel discussion.
Gutierrez said she was excited that she attended the DC panel.
"I got a chance to meet Geoff (Johns)," Gutierrez said. "I've been a big fan of him for a long time."
DC comic book fan Charlie Barrentos said the panel presented a personal vibe for the fans.
"They really made it feel that they listen to the fans and their input," Barrentos said.
Other events of the day included a premiere screening of "Give 'Em Hell Malone," featuring actors Thomas Jane and Ving Rhames.
Vendors, artists, writers and celebrities occupied the bottom floor as fans interacted with their favorite comics.
Comic book writer David Malki, one of the vendors, said he was impressed with the number of people.
"I go to conventions all over the country," Malki said. "This is a tremendous achievement for a first-year show."
Malki, author of the comics books Wondermark, said he feels his works are more indie-trend, but was happy to open up his clientele.
"I get to reach out to a new audience here," Malki said.
The Long Beach Comic Con finishes its events today.
jonathan.smith@presstelegram.com
562-499-1476
