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

Meet Bond Director Lewis Gilbert

In the wake of Fan Fest at the astounding London Film Museum, the home of all things film. James Bond movie director LEWIS GILBERT will be signing his autobiography, ALL MY FLASHBACKS, at the Forbidden Planet Megastore.

Reach for the Sky, Carve Her Name With Pride, Sink the Bismarck!, Alfie, You Only Live Twice, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, Educating Rita, Shirley Valentine ... a remarkably varied collection of subjects and just some of the films directed by Lewis Gilbert during the course of seven decades in the industry.

In All My Flashbacks Lewis Gilbert recalls his tragic childhood as a music hall entertainer, his traumatic wartime service in the RAF and ultimately one of the most distinguished careers in British cinema. Along the way he describes working with such diverse personalities as Laurence Olivier, Alfred Hitchcock, Michael Caine, Sean Connery, Roger Moore and Liza Minnelli.

Lewis Gilbert was born in 1920 and began his career as a director while attached to the US Army Air Corps in the Second World War. He went on to direct over 40 films, including three James Bond movies and such classics as Sink the Bismarck! and Shirley Valentine. Also a prolific writer and producer, Gilbert’s numerous awards include two BAFTAs (Reach for the Sky and Educating Rita) and a Golden Globe (Friends). His 1966 movie Alfie was nominated for numerous Academy Awards.

Meet Bond Director Lewis Gilber

Where:
Forbidden Planet Megastore
179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR

When:
8:00pm, Thurs 29 Apr, 2010

More info at Forbidden Planet

Exclusive: Avatar DVD / Blu-Ray launch in London

Enter the world of Pandora this Sunday. Since its global theatrical release last December, AVATAR continues to make motion picture history. The Golden Globe® and Oscar winning epic is the highest grossing film of all time, taking in over $2.6 billion in worldwide box office, with over £91 million from the UK box office to date. Director James Cameron takes audiences to a spectacular world beyond imagination, where a reluctant hero embarks on a journey of redemption and discovery as he leads a heroic battle to save a civilization. Written by Cameron and produced with his long-time collaborator Jon Landau, AVATAR stars Sam Worthington, Zoë Saldana, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang; as well as Michelle Rodriguez, Giovanni Ribisi and Joel David Moore.

To Celebrate the launch of AVATAR on Blu-Ray & DVD a series of special events have been planned. The first event is:

This Sunday 25th April 2010 HMV's flagsore on Oxford street will be transformed into the world of PANDORA!

But wait there is more!

Actor Stephen Lang, who plays Colonel Miles Quaritch will be making a special guest appearance on the day and patricipate in a live QA session.

Attendees will receive exclusive AVATAR goodies, including the opportunity to have their pic taken in the world of Pandora using green screen technology, see Stephen Lang interviewed on stage, plus have the very first copies of the Blu-Ray and DVD autographed by an Avatar cast member.

Customers will receive exclusive AVATAR goodies, including the opportunity (using green screen technology) to have their picture taken in the world of Pandora, see Stephen interviewed live on stage, plus have the very first copies of the Blu-ray and DVD signed.

AVATAR, directed by James Cameron, is set in the year 2154, when humans are mining a precious mineral called unobtanium on Pandora, a lush moon of a gas giant in the Alpha Centauri star system. The expansion of the mining colony threatens the continued existence of a local tribe of Na'vi—a sentient humanoid species indigenous to Pandora.

Amongst the 121 nominations and 50 awards, AVATAR was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director and won the awards for Art Direction, Cinematography, and Visual Effects. In the UK the film received eight nominations from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), including Best Film and Director, and won best Production Design and Special Visual Effects.

Please note: Due to anticipated high demand for the event, 400 wristbands will be issued for access to the signing queue. Wristbands will be available from the store on the day of the event from 10am on a first come first served basis, one per customer only, no reservations, subject to availability.

Avatar is out on Blu-ray and DVD on April 26.

Exclusive: Avatar DVD / Blu-Ray launch in London

Where
HMV London,
150 Oxford Street, W1

When
4:00pm, Sun 25 Apr, 2010