There’s a lot going on over the next few days, so no excuses to get out there and nerd out!

Check out the interactive calendar.

First up, I finally watched KPop Demon Hunters this weekend. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s time to catch up. The K-Pop draw is obvious for music fans, but just as strong is the art and animation. It’s one of the best looking films of the last decade. I describe it as Hotel Transylvania meets Samurai Jack meets Blade Runner 2049 with a hint of magic.

But the best part is probably the story. It starts by drawing you in with both contemporary and mythological references, and then weaves a complex narrative through some great character development with a strong theme at its backbone. Beautifully told.

This Sony Pictures Animation film was produced on a $100M budget (big bet) but given to Netflix for distribution due to a 2021 distribution contract. It is now the streaming platform’s most popular movie ever. If that wasn’t enough, the film’s songs are still dominating Spotify weekly charts. Sony is expected to profit only $20M, while Netflix moves forward with one of the biggest potential franchises ever.

Anyway, let me know if you watch it and are as obsessed as I am.

Wendell, NC—Saturday, September 13, 10 AM to 5 PM

It’s our first time going to this event! Epic Might Con is a one-day family-friendly convention in Wendell. Expect vendors, comic book authors, voice actors, cosplay, tabletop gaming, and food trucks.

Epic Might Con is run by a small team passionate about bringing this type of gathering to their community. I love going to smaller events like this because they’re all unique in their own way and you can feel the love people have for the things they celebrate.

Keep up with the latest updates through their Facebook page.

Cost: $5; Kids 12 & under free
Address: Wendell Community Center, 601 W 3rd St, Wendell, NC 27591

Cary, NC—Saturday, September 13, 11 AM to 2 PM

Patton Oswalt is a well-known comedian, but did you know he also writes comics? He and author Timmy Heague will be at Ultimate Comics in Cary to talk about all things comics and signing their latest works. Check out the Facebook event for more info.

Cost: FREE
Address: Ultimate Comics Car, 218 Nottingham Dr, Cary, NC 27511

Raleigh, NC—Saturday, September 13, 7:30 PM

The NC Symphony is performing video game music! Their Video Games Live: Bonus Round concert will feature orchestral renditions of some of our favorite video game themes, such as Halo, Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Chrono Trigger, Undertale, Mass Effect, and much more.

Even if you don’t think you’re into orchestra performances, I think this show would be enough to leave you saying “Whoa that was so cool.” It’s not your uptight great aunt playing classical pieces on the violin. It’s more like super nerdy band director losing their marbles recreating moments of video game nostalgia.

There are still tickets available, so go grab them! You won’t be disappointed.

Cost: $56 - $119
Address: Meymandi Concert Hall, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC 27601

Raleigh, NC—Sunday, September 14, 2 PM to 5 PM

If you can’t make the NC Symphony, here’s the next best thing. Local musicians will be jamming to video game music at Raleigh’s monthly Video Game Music (VGM) Jam. It’s a sign-up-sheet style jazz jam where any musician can jump in with any instrument. Check the Instagram for more info too, or join their Discord server.

The jam is hosted by the Turnabout Players, a local VGM band. If you’ve never been to a VGM jam, I recommend this one. It’s a lot of fun. And the venue, Hartwell, is a cool little spot too.

Cost: FREE
Address: Hartwell, 620 W South St, Raleigh, NC 27603

Phew, we got through all that! Hope you have fun checking some of this out over the weekend.

If you enjoyed this content, please share it with a friend! And don’t forget to check out the new calendar and business directory.

– Matias