Catch it at Comic-Con: New title from L.A.-based Boom!

July 14, 2005 Hollywood South Even if you're not a comic book geek, you've probably heard of San Diego's Comic-Con. Call it the E3 of graphic novels. The COMDEX of comics. It's the industry's main event. But unlike the hotel swap-meet-style shows you may have browsed around years ago, comic books aren't the only attraction here. For a few days each summer Comic-Con turns San Diego into Hollywood South. Film industry everywhere. From studio scouts searching out new titles to option, to the movie marketing machines on the scene to plug the summer's biggest action flick, Hollywood hearts comics, and it shows at Comic-Con. Expect big exhibits from Lucasfilm, Lions Gate Film, and Sci Fi Channel, to name just three. For you, it means a chance to see stars. Today David Cronenberg talks about A History of Violence. Tomorrow Natalie Portman delves into V for Vendetta. And Saturday, the huge King Kong panel features a live set by Tenacious D. The challenge is getting there, since parking will be hell and downtown hotels are long sold-out. But would Batman let that stop him? If it all sounds like too much Hollywood for you, don't worry, fellow geeks — there are still comics. Lots and lots and lots of 'em. Comic-Con International San Diego Convention Center July 14 - 17 4-day membership (pass): $65 Single-day rates: Thurs or Fri: $25, Sat: $30, Sun: $15