San Diego Comic-Con again spotlights cosplayers who invest months into intricate costumes, often treating cosplay as an art form that blends theater, music, and dance to bring characters to life. Attendees like Sarah Lu spend hundreds of dollars—about $400—to create outfits such as Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, underscoring the craft and dedication involved. Confidence is regularly cited as essential, with cosplayers noting that a lack of self-assurance can undermine how a costume is received. Heat poses a persistent challenge, prompting advice to stay hydrated and prompting repairs when glue softens or fabric tears occur. A notable presence on the floor is Bryan Mero, who patrols with repair supplies to fix costumes and asks for nothing but a pay-it-forward spirit from participants.