London Film and Comic Con 2010 Review

“E! Are reporting from Comic-Con and Brad Pitt’s there now. Who reported from your (London Film and) Comic Con?” My girlfriend asked me a couple of days ago while watching E! She was of course referring to San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) vs. The London Film and Comic Con (LDFCC). My mumbled response somewhat deflating the grand and exotic picture I had excitedly painted of my experience at LFCC the weekend before. “Err!! A couple of bloggers by the look of things”. Naturally this spurrned me on to create this post.

“LFCC takes place every summer (over a weekend) at Earls Court 2 in London. Celebrating the best of film, television, comics and sport, London Film and Comic Con is a day out unlike any other, giving you the chance to meet your idols, ask them questions as well as grabbing the latest film/tv/comic merchandise on the market.”

So on Sunday in between Lovebox days I made my way to the Earls Court conference centre. LFCC London Film and Comic Con was back and better than ever. This year the convention covered a smaller area than the huge space in previous years. But nevertheless was capital. Some astounding guests, loads of comics, film memorabilia, talks, art, sci-fi, super heroes, Cosplay, sneak previews and an exhibition from DC comics.

I missed last year’s convention but this year the draw proved too much.

As with previous years the arena was divided up into different zones; The Signing Zone, Anime Zone, Photo shoot Zone, Artists Alley, Video Game Zone, Talk Area, Cosplay Zone, Dealer Zone.

I arrived at the Earls Court conference centre hoping to breeze in as in previous years but arrived a little earlier than anticipated and had to join the long queue to get in. As with previous years crowd control was conducted by the Empire’s finest ensuring that Trekkie scum were dutifully harassed and that all was kept in order. All the while various characters from across comics, film, Sci-Fi and Manga either queuing up or interacting with the visitors.

LFCC: Stormtroopers enquiring about my photo permit, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler. LFCC: Call of Duty COD, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Queue monitored by Empire Stormtroopers, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

The long line of visitors moved very quickly one the doors opened.

LFCC: London Film and Comic Con, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler. LFCC: London Film and Comic Con, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Making my way into the centre I was greeted by one of the main draws for me – Batman’s Tumbler. Yes you read correctly the 2.5 ton Tumbler from Batman Begins and The Dark Knight was on display.

LFCC: Tumbler Batmobile, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

After taking a substantial number of pictures and regaining my composure. I started my walk around LFCC 2010, every 6 steps encountering another character from the world of make believe. My first stop was the Resonance stand.

Resonance is an innovative multi-platform drama series. A super-powered espionage tale of a group of people caught up in an epic struggle to control a mystical object. It is a collaborative project. From production talent, high profile brands, charitable and educational organisations to physics professors, broadcasters and athletes.

Resonance is a 6 x 60 min sci-fi drama series. A mysterious object has been fought over for 1,000s of years. Those who have possessed it have wielded incredible power. Some have used it to build civilizations and push the boundaries of human achievement. Some have used it to crush armies and destroy their enemies. The Object’s origins are unknown. But its effect resonates through history. Nothing has been seen of it for 60 years. Until today. Now secret and ancient societies will stop at nothing to secure it. No one can be trusted. No one is safe. The battle to possess it will spill onto our streets and the lives of those who cross paths with it will be altered forever.

Resonance is a new sci-fi multi-platform digital drama starring Aidan Turner, Charles Dance, Nikki Amuka-Bird and Ruta Gedmintas. Directed by Colin Teague.

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The number of costumed characters in the centre was impressive this year. I couldn't walk 5 steps without bumping into a Super Hero, Trekkie, Star Wars, Anime or Manga character. Some of the detailing in these costumes is awesome.

LFCC: The Invisible Man, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler. LFCC: Ghostbuster Proton Pack, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Kung Lao from Mortal Kombat, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: The Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Then sauntered past The Trading Card Zone which was hosting card games across a number of tables. Not to sure about the variety of games but there were a lot of guys playing Magic: The Gathering, Yu Gi Oh and Pokemon.

LFCC: The Trading Card Zone, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler. LFCC: LFCC: London Film and Comic Con Dance Off Zone, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Continuing to the The Video Game Zone where there were a multitude of platforms, game types, styles and consoles to play on including a retro game area. Games that I saw included; Stepmania, Guitar Hero, Mario Kart Wii, Super Street Fighter IV, DDR Tournament, New Super Mario Bros Wii, Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies, Sin and Punishment: Successor of the Skies, Metroid and Sonic The Hedgehog.

LFCC: Poison Ivy, The Black Canary ?, The Invisible Man & Spider-Woman, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler LFCC: Darth Vader vs The Terminator, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Intentionally passing by the stage where uber talented comic book writer and novelist Greg Rucka was conducting an in-depth QA session.

LFCC: Greg Rucka talking about his career and work, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

I headed to the Talk Zone where the gorgeous Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica, 24, Bionic Woman) was doing a QA session. During the talk Sackhoff came across as witty, fun, incredibly cute and was more than happy to openly engage with the audience who seemed quite star struck.

LFCC: Katee Sackhoff, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

She gave some interesting from behind the scenes on her shows as well as her experiences. At about 7:00 in the audio clip below from http://www.cinetalk.tv/ Katee talks about some of her upcoming stuff.

Throughout the weekend there were talks from actors, cast and production teams scheduled. You can find the complete time table over here 0n the LFCC site.

After Katee Sackhoff’s talk I continued my stroll around the centre heading through The Dealer Zone, where for a price you can obtain anything from the realm of Sci-Fi, Comics or film that your heart desires. The Dealer Zone has enough merchandise, memorabilia and artwork to keep any level of fan interested.

LFCC: The Terminator's T800 Endoskeleton ARM, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Figurines, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: London Film and Comic Con, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: T-shirts, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler. LFCC: Iron Man Mark 3 Suit, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Making my way through the The Anime Zone where Anime purveyors sell your favourite DVDs, manga, merchandise, goodies as well as rare and hard to find pieces. I headed towards the DC Comics 75th Anniversary Covers Exhibition, which was another one of main draws for me.

LFCC: DC Comics 75th Anniversary Covers Exhibition, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

On entry to the exhibition DC provided a DC goody bag which amongst other bits contained the Complete Motion Comic of The Watchmen DVD. Amongst the 100 or so enlarged covers the exhibition hosted a couple of pieces from DC films, a preview of the Batman: Arkham Asylum 2 game as well as a teaser poster for DC’s upcoming Green Lantern film.

Exiting the DC area I took a stroll past the Signing Zone with a huge number of guests and fans lining up to meet, greet and get their autographs.

LFCC: Sean Young, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Iron Mike Tyson, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Kristanna Loken, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Tom Noonan calls us over for a chat, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

LFCC: William Shatner (The Shat) "Khaaaan!", originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

It was time for another reason I was at LFCC. William Shatner or “The Shat” as he is affectionately known was about to deliver one of his much anticipated irreverent, scathing and completely hilarious talks in the Talk Zone. As can be witnessed from the clip below from shanghaichica

After The Shat I made my way past the Tumbler again and through the Preview Zone where fans needing a bit of a break were treated to a trailer reel of upcoming films. I have to say that the Preview Zone hasn’t changed much but it would be nice if it was upgraded. For instance it really needs a big screen projector rather than a big screen TV, and dedicated high quality sound system in its own darkened cinema like area. If you really want to push the boat out a pop corn stand wouldn’t go a miss. I’m just saying.

LFCC: Jessica Rabbit & Anime Cosplay, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Two versions of the X-Men's Rogue, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Shaun of the Dead, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Halo Spartan Warrior, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Through the Artists Alley where professional and beginner artists congregate, discuss and show off their art work. No experience required and absolute beginners are more than welcome!

Through The Cosplay Zone, in case it’s unclear the entire convention center is packed with characters wandering around in costumes and they have a dedicated area where they meet, chat, showoff, have photos taken and compete for the best outfits, in fact this year the Cosplay Olympics were held at LFCC on both days.

LFCC: Cosplay Zone, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Cosplay Zone building a robot, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Anime Cosplay on the left Legend of Zelda Wolf Link on the right Okami's Amaterasu (http://thekitsuneden.webs.com/), originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.LFCC: Anime Cosplay in the Cosplay Zone, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

Other Cosplay events included the Cosplay Showdown, Elegant Gothic Lolita section and a Steampunk meet-up. I don’t pretend to understand it but participants seem to be having fun and loving it. Any help identifying characters would be appreciated.

Past the Photo Zone where fans can have their photo taken with their favourite star(s). Which brings me to the final highlight of the day for me. This year LFCC hosted a celebration for the 30th Birthday of The Empire Strikes Back.

LFCC: The Legendary Gary Kurtz SWLFCC, originally uploaded by Craig Grobler.

With the biggest reunion of cast I have had the pleasure of experiencing including; David Prowse (Darth Vader), Kenny Baker (R2D2), Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett) and Legendary Star Wars Producer Gary Kurtz. Amongst his other films I have been waiting for is 5-25-77 or 77.

Looks pretty neat huh?

All round a pretty awesome special day. Sorry I didn’t make it on the Saturday as well. My only complaints of London Film and Comic Con apart from there being too much to choose from please do something about the Preview Zone; it’s such a wasted opportunity. I for one look forward to seeing sneak peeks of upcoming films, viewing them in the right environment would be great. Also the Convention Centre’s awful yellow artificial daylights really kill any photos taken. I did notice one prepared photographer actually rigged up a portable light studio to ensure his photos came out well. I’m already looking forward to LFCC 2011 15th, 16th & 17th July 2011.

London Film and Comic Con 2010 Review

When:
London Film and Comic Con 2011 will be held over the 15th, 16th & 17th July 2011

More info:
Over at the LFCC website

ZULU Exhibition opens at The London Film Museum

"If 1200 men couldn't hold a defensive position this morning, what chance have we with 100?"

From - http://www.londonfilmmuseum.com/zulu.htm

On Saturday 24th July, the London Film Museum is proud to present the first exhibition dedicated to the classic British film, ZULU.

Starring Michael Caine, Stanley Baker, Jack Hawkins and Ulla Jacobsson, the film was produced by Joseph E. Levine, directed by Cy Endfield, and was released worldwide in 1964.

The exhibition will include many items seen in public for the first time, including the original colour storyboards, scripts, and unpublished photographs taken by the director on set in Natal, South Africa. Also on display will be Chief Cetewayo's shield and throne tusks, and Assegais (spears) used in the film as well as some from the original battle.

The storyboards were discovered in Natal last year a few miles from where the film was shot, and illustrate the "Attack on the Hospital". Dr Sheldon Hall, author of the definitive book on the making of the film, says "Until recently it was thought that no original storyboards had survived from the production of ZULU, or even existed in the first place. The recent discovery in South Africa of an extremely rare set of storyboard sketches for one key sequence is a major find for anyone interested in the film."

"Contributions to the exhibition have come from right across the country and collectors have been generous in providing us with original material" says Henry Coleman from ZuluFilmStore.com, who has helped in curating the exhibition.

The exhibition will be at the museum until June 2011 when it will travel to South Africa to go on display.

Opening day events will include a free screening of the film, as well as a Q&A with Maureen Endfield and a lecture by Dr Sheldon Hall.

As part of the opening day we shall also be collecting for Help for Heroes in recognition of the people still involved in conflict around the world.

ZULU Exhibition opens at The London Film Museum

Where:
The London Film Museum, 1st Floor, Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB

When:
Sat 24 July 2010 - June 2011

More info:
Over at the The London Film Museum website

Ray Harryhausen exhibition coming to the London Film Museum

One of the special treats at Fan Fest 2010 held at the London Film Museum was the opportunity to listen to film Legend Ray Harryhausen reflect upon his career and making films in his pioneering way.

Just prior to his talk the London Film Museum made the surprise announcement that to coincide with Harryhausen’s 90th Birthday the London Film Museum will be hosting a Ray Harryhausen exhibition.

The official announcement from the London Film Museum website:

"The London Film Museum are pleased to announce that on June 29th 2010 the London Film Museum will open its exhibition.

Entitled "Ray Harryhausen - Myths and Legends" - the exhibition will be focusing on the work of Ray Harryhausen and showcase the techniques he used to bring his Dynamation creatures to life.

The launch date is an extra special one as this is also Ray’s 90th Birthday.

Ray is the father of modern day special effects. Without his imagination and wonderful fantasy films made in the 1940s, 50s, 60s and 70s there would probably be no George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Nick Park or Peter Jackson. It was Ray who inspired these fantasy filmmakers and it is to him that each one credits Ray as their inspiration.

Ray began his art after seeing King Kong (1933) and following his first feature film Mighty Joe Young in 1949 went on to develop a technique known as Dynamation, which is a process that allows animated models to be integrated with live action. Other films followed, amongst which were The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms (1952), 20 Million Miles to Earth (1957), The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958), Jason and the Argonauts (1963), One Million Years BC (1966), The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973) and Clash of the Titans (1981).

These classic films 'starred' such creations at Cyclops, dragons, living skeleton warriors, a Medusa, a giant crab, scorpions and bees and of course dinosaurs.

The exhibition is being put together by the London Film Museum Advisory Panel including Leslie Hardcastle (founder of MOMI) and Jonathan Sands (Chief Executive of the museum), and with kind permission from The Ray and Diana Harryhausen Foundation.

The exhibition will be housed in the rooms opposite the Charlie Chaplin – The Great Londoner Exhibition.

Ray Harryhausen exhibition coming to the London Film Museum

Where:
The London Film Museum
County Hall, Riverside Building, Southbank, London SE1 7PB,

When:
The exhibition opens on June 29th 2010

More info:
More info at the London Film Museum