With MCM Comic Con firmly in the history books for another year, Jay takes us on a virtual tour of the pop culture extravaganza and all the tokusatsu goodness on offer.
MCM Comic Con, a haven for pop culture enthusiasts, recently played host to an explosion of toku greatness, where fans of tokusatsu descended upon the event to celebrate their shared love for Japanese superhero franchises. Among the myriad of attractions, a standout feature was the Kamen Rider Geats DGP photoshoot, capturing the essence of toku in vivid detail.
Cosplay
The toku photoshoot, a collaborative effort orchestrated by yours truly, Kezza Henshin and Yik unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of creativity and passion within the Toku community. This gathering served as a platform to showcase an extensive range of cosplay styles, from the meticulously crafted commissioned cosplays to the ingenious closet cosplays, each embodying a unique story. The event became a testament to the unwavering dedication of fans who, with remarkable precision, brought their favourite characters to life. Every costume was not just an outfit but a manifestation of the fervent love and commitment that defines the toku community, emphasising the profound impact these Japanese superhero franchises have on the lives of their enthusiasts.
In the midst of the vibrant spectacle that was the MCM Comic Con, a truly splendid moment unfolded with the arrival of iconic heroes who have woven themselves into the rich tapestry of Tokusatsu lore. The commanding presence of Don Momotaro, the sleek and mysterious Kamen Rider Blade and the formidable Kamen Rider Dark Kiva transformed the event into a living canvas of cherished memories and thrilling encounters. These characters, revered and adored in the expansive world of tokusatsu, didn’t simply exist on the screen; they materialised right before the eager eyes of fans, stirring up a tidal wave of nostalgia and unparalleled excitement. For enthusiasts, this wasn’t just an opportunity to witness their heroes, it was a rare chance to be in the immediate presence of the figures who fuelled their childhood dreams and ignited a lifelong passion for the extraordinary realm of tokusatsu.
Hasbro
The Hasbro Pulse stall really stood out as a lively focal point, attracting Power Rangers fans with its fantastic array of collectibles and memorabilia. Once inside, attendees found themselves surrounded by a treasure trove that included classic action figures and exclusive merchandise. The stall transformed into a bustling hub where fans eagerly sought to capture and celebrate their most cherished Power Rangers moments.
The enduring legacy of Power Rangers, now in the capable hands of Hasbro, echoed throughout the venue, casting a nostalgic spell on both long-time devotees and those new to the fandom. To make the experience even more interactive, fans were given the unique opportunity to wield the Lightning Collection Power Sword and Power Daggers. This added an extra layer of excitement and engagement, enhancing their exploration of the Ranger universe.
Kanashi
A trip to the Kanashi stall, carefully curated by the imaginative Claude, turned out to be a visual treat for visitors at the MCM Comic Con. The stall unfolded as a lively tapestry adorned with stickers featuring iconic figures such as Zenkaiser, Stacaesar and Shinken Red. These intricately crafted stickers acted as a magnetic force, attracting enthusiasts like moths to a flame, all eager to incorporate these vibrant and dynamic additions into their burgeoning collections. Claude, a pivotal figure in the toku community recognised by the handle @kanashikaiser on Twitter, Instagram, and Etsy, showcased not just a marketplace but a testament to the amalgamation of art and fandom. His stall served as a central hub where toku enthusiasts could not only obtain tangible pieces from their beloved series but also partake in a shared experience that further solidified their connection to the toku universe.
Atmosphere
As the day gradually unfolded, the sprawling halls of MCM Comic Con transformed into a captivating tapestry of vibrant colours, boundless creativity and an undeniable sense of camaraderie, all intricately woven together by the shared and palpable passion for tokusatsu. Beyond merely a visual spectacle, the event became a nexus where the sense of community took centre stage, forming an unbreakable bond among fans. Whether enthusiasts engaged in the art of meticulously crafted cosplay, eagerly scoured collectibles to augment their cherished collections, or joyously exchanged memories of their beloved heroes, the toku presence at MCM Comic Con transcended mere fandom; it evolved into a resounding celebration, underscoring the enduring and far reaching impact of Japanese superhero franchises on the hearts and minds of fans across the Country!
The toku presence at MCM Comic Con stood as a resounding testament to the enduring allure of tokusatsu. Through the lens of cosplay, meticulously crafted collectibles and the infectious vibrant energy emanating from the fans, the event not only painted but vividly illustrated a multifaceted picture of the unwavering passion that continues to fuel the thriving toku community. As the iconic heroes of Kamen Rider and Power Rangers stood shoulder to shoulder, the entire affair metamorphosed into a jubilant celebration that transcended the boundaries of mere characters on the screen. It evolved into a heartfelt tribute to the unsung champions—the dedicated fans, whose enthusiasm and devotion breathe life into the very essence of the Toku universe, making it a dynamic and ever evolving force in the realm of pop culture.
Keep your eye out as more toku meetups will be planned for other conventions in the UK, as well as future MCM conventions! Were you at the MCM meetup? Share your experiences in the comments below!
