The London Film and Comic Con is a convention held annually. The three-day event focuses on films, cult television, gaming, anime and comics. This year’s convention took place over July 28 to 30, and Digital Journal was mingling among the fans.
Cosplay is popular at these types of events, and this year was no exception.
Cosplay is derived from the words “costume” and “play”. It is a little more than simply dressing up as a character, for it is often tied with reenactments where cosplayers get into a specific character role.
The Olympia venue was packed full of stalls selling merchandise from popular shows and replicas.
As well as visiting stands, the various guests take part in autograph signings, photo shoots and panel discussions.
Two of the most popular, judging by the lines of people waiting, were Dolph Lundgren (Rocky IV & Expendables), and Jeremy Renner (Avengers & Mission Impossible). Also popular was Michelle Gomez (Doctor Who & Gotham), and she came across as charming with the few words that Digital Journal exchanged with the Scottish actor.
Also warm, and generous with this time, was Aaron Stanford (X-Men & Twelve Monkeys). Asked by Digital Journal about the Twelve Monkeys television series, Stanford said he “was really pleased with it”, adding “it’s a tough show to make but it keeps on getting better and better.”
Of other actors present (or ‘guests’ as the organizers call them), Mads Mikkelsen (Hannibal, Casino Royale & Dr Strange) also came across as genuinely pleased to meet people. “Watch out for Dr Strange!” he teasingly told a couple of fans, “it’s going to be blow your mind.”
Other actors present included Laurie Holden (Walking Dead & The X-Files):
And Jack Gleeson (Game of Thrones):
Of the panels, Rutger Hauer (Blade Runner & Batman) was in entertaining form, which Digital Journal has reviewed in a separate feature.
Among the items of movie memorabilia was the the 1989 Batmobile, which drew a large crowd. The fictional vehicle has an acceleration of 0-60 in 3.7 seconds and could reach a maximum Speed: 530 kilometer per hour, with the help of a jet booster.
A battle-ready armored version of the caped crusader’s favorite method of getting out-and-about in Gotham was also on display. The cars were located close to costumes, guns and props from 2012’s Judge Dredd movie.
The event also provided the opportunity to launch the new television show Stranger Things and the Suicide Squad movie.
London Film and Comic Con provides an opportunity to take in the year ahead in cult and genre movies, TV shows and comics, and to reappraise classic material . One theme running through is a relaxed environment and an opportunity for people to talk and share their enthusiasm for all things left-field.
Across social media, convention goer Emma Scullion (@EmmaScullion1) enthused: “Had such a great day at London Film and Comic Con @Showmasters”; and declared film geek Paul Toms (@Tomsy79) tweeted: “Comic con weekend, another barrage of geek news…A great time!”
