Chiller convention
Parsippany, NJ
April 17-19 2008
So I guess it started out as a Horror convention but has slowly morphed into a Horror/Sci-Fi/Pop culture convention. Whatever you want to label it, it was fun! This was my first Chiller and I went by myself, Usually going to something like this by yourself isn't as fun as going with other people but I had a blast. One upside is you get to do what you want to do 100% of the time. No compromises! I met some cool people there as well. Hi to Mongo, Johnny Loid, and the other people I met that I can't remember your names, sorry, it was a heck of a party!
Last time I went to a convention was probably around 1997, back when most stars still signed for free. I was a bit taken aback by the amounts charged for autographs and having your picture taken with them. I did find out it used to be the conventions would flat out pay the star to appear figuring that would attract people and they'd make their money on door fees etc. Now the conventions negotiate with the stars, the star says I need to make "this much" to appear, they charge for autographs and pics, and if they don't make that amount then the convention has to make up the difference to them. Thats why they all have someone sitting with them, that person is a "counter" they keep track of what the star sells so it keeps everyone honest. I guess I should say I don't know for a fact this is how "chiller" works, just how conventions and autographs was explained to me by someone who knew how it usually works. There were also stars out in a tent who didn't have a counter with them, I'm assuming they don't have a contract they just make what they make and thats it. Thats also where you find the ones who aren't quite as strict on what they sign or how much they charge.
So I spent too much money and am now wondering how I'm going to fill the gas tank and eat until payday but it was fun. Would I do it again, maybe, but maybe a few less autographs or maybe just go for one day. All depends on the $$$ situation at the time I guess. So........
on to the pics!
Dennis Cole
Medowlark Lemon
Johnathan Tiersten (of Ten Tiers)
Gregory Harrison
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