ACE Was the Place to Be

ACE Comic Con Midwest flew into Navy Pier the evening of Oct. 19 and it couldn't be stopped until Oct. 21. Following in the footsteps of Wizard World and C2E2, this was a brand new comic convention and fans didn't know what to expect.

There were differences between the conventions that make them unique and enjoyable. ACE was smaller than the other big brothers, but that allowed a better layout and an easier to navigate experience.

There were many thing that they have in common with the panels, fan opportunities and vendor booths. The were chances to meet legends like Jim Starlin, who has been in the comic business over 40 years and is celebrating a resurgence thanks to the Avengers Infinity War that he drew so many years ago.

Along the artist alley section a diverse group sold their work throughout the weekend.

Fans could meet their heros for photo ops and autographs. Many had traveled from around the world to get a glimpse of superheroes from the big screen. Captain America's Chris Evans hugged people, posed for photos and raked in the dough. Diehards could even buy a metal shield for their special moment with the actor.

There were also wrestlers, television stars and top writers.

Panels ran during each day for people to hear actors give behind the scenes stories straight from their mouths.

The real joy to watch is when attendees who sometimes wrestle with social anxiety get to be a hero for a day, dress up and take pictures with people. Not fitting into a cookie cutter life is celebrated whether straight, gay or any spectrum of the rainbow at these conventions.

After a big success for ACE Midwest in 2018, look for a return next year and details at ACEUniverse.com.