Tag Archives: Comic Con

Sci-Fi Weekender 2015 – part 1

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Sci-fi Weekender 19th – 22nd March 2015

Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli

Hard to believe it’s been a year since our last visit off-world to the magnificence that is Sci-Fi Weekender.  But here we were again, for our second journey to the stars, with a guest list of thousands from the realms of science fiction and fantasy.

As a convention, what makes Sci-Fi Weekender stand out is that all the guests stay on site at the Hafan Y Mor holiday park in North West Wales.  For one weekend each year, the geeks inherit the earth and take over in intergalactic style.

Hellboy and pals
Judges
Catwoman and Silent Bob
Something on your back…
Who ya gonna call?
Royal Guard
Harley behind bars
Joker

This year our band of explorers included Adam, Greeny, Kurt and myself as per last year, but with good buddy Ste along for his first voyage.  Amongst the features on offer were all day gaming, merchandise for sale, props to view, films to see, and numerous luminaries being interviewed and partaking in Q and A’s.

Let it be said that the entertainments were many, and that much alcohol was consumed.

On the Friday, I was eager to see an interview with actor Julian Glover.  He appeared as General Veers in The Empire Strikes Back so this was a pretty big deal.  I have at least three different Star Wars figures of this guy, for a start.  He also appeared in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, For Your Eyes Only and Quatermass and the Pit, for good measure.  Mr Glover was extremely interesting to listen to and seemed like a thorough gentleman.

Poison Ivy
Batman
Phoenix
Rorschach
Drag Leia and chums!
Scarlet Witch
Captain America
Ghost Rider

Next up was James Cosmo, who I remembered from Highlander (classic!) and as Ewan McGregor‘s dad in Trainspotting.  He’s also appeared in dozens of other films and TV shows, not least Braveheart, so his Q&A was top notch.

I took a few photos and milled about a bit, we had some drinks and I caught the One Man Star Wars show.  For the uninitiated, this is one bloke recreating all three films from the original trilogy (Episodes IV to VI, fact fans!) in an hour – on his own.  There are no effects other than what can be recreated with his own voice and actions.  I have to admit that this was very impressive.  The audience laughed along, but me as a full on Star Wars nerd was engrossed in how he made the sounds.  I need to learn that R2 whistle for my action figures!  I AM A NERD!

The finale of the day was once again the genius of Darth Elvis and the Imperials.  What do you get?  A band of Dark Side troops, fronted by an Elvis Jedi, rocking the stage like a crazed Bantha herd.  They look great, they sound awesome! IMG_3978

Elvis classics are re-worked to suit the Star Wars theme, so we get “Return to Endor” and “Viva Mos Eisley”, amongst many more.  Brilliant!  The band rock out and also put a huge Hutt-like grin on your face with the genuinely witty spin on various classics.  Not just Elvis either – nice to hear some Faith No More in the set this year.  Absolutely epic entertainment and a perfect end to the night.  Hot Dang!

What’s more, I can personally vouch for the fact that the band are 100% decent folks.  I got a signed poster!  Greeny got a poster and a photo with the Dark King himself!  I got excited and forgot to ask for a photo of myself with Darth Elvis!  I AM A NERD!!!

Part 2 of our adventure to the stars soon…

Here’s the Sci-Fi Weekender website.

Check out Darth Elvis and the Imperials on Facebook or follow the Dark King on Twitter: @darth_elvis

The Urban Troopers are cool guys – follow them on Twitter: @yodasbitch

The Urban Troopers!

The Urban Troopers!

Me with tw of my childhood heroes...!

Me with two of my childhood heroes…!

Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC – part 2

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22/23 November 2014

Some more photos from Memorabilia at the NEC in Birmingham.

Riddler and Two Face
Lara
Ant Man and the Wasp
Disney baddies
Joker and Harley
Ms Marvel
Nice to see Green Lantern is a responsible parent
Poison Ivy
Wonder Woman

IMG_3746One of the best costumes I saw on the day was this model, fully covered in gold, to appear as Jill Masterson from Goldfinger.  A very clever and well executed idea, she was tehre to promote a James Bond magazine collection.  What made it even more interesting was that Shirley Eaton, who played the girl covered in gold paint in the original film, was also there signing autographs on the day.

There are always plenty of celebrity guests at the event.  On this occasion I shook hands with actor Cary Elwes, star of The Princess Bride amongst many other films.  I also met a few other people as you can see below.

Apes
Jessica
Wonder Woman
Wolverine
Predators
Ms MArvel
Star Wars costumes

Appearing at the event was the wonderful Caroline Munro, star of Hammer films and of course The Spy Who Love Me (plus many more great movies).  I met Caroline and got her autograph (again!).  She was really sweet and remembered me from the last time we met. IMG_3758

 I also me gorgeous glamour model Lucy Zara, who was really cool and friendly. IMG_3761

The next Birmingham Memorabilia is at the end of March.  Unfortunately I won’t be able to attend as I’ll be off to Sci-Fi Weekender.  So there’ll hopefully be tons of pics from that instead!  Looking forward to the next NEC gathering in November…

Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC – part 1

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22/23 November 2014

I paid another visit to MCM Expo Comic Con at Birmingham NEC back in November.  The drought of Star Wars action figures was still in effect, but I found some very cool stuff none the less.

Of course there were plenty of Cosplayers in attendance, ranging from comic books to movies and everything in between.  Squads of stormtroopers, superheroes of every description – you name it, I saw it.

Here are a few pics of some of the folks I saw that day.

Harley Quinn and Green Arrow
Indy
Gold Dalek
Wolverine and Ms Marvel
Zatanna?
Hellboy
Chewie
Tyrese and baby Judith

The Chewbacca (above) is probably the best I’ve ever seen.

I earned major cool points from my little girl for the Disney pics I took this year.

Poison Ivy and Black Canary
Tony and Pepper
Disney gang
Jay and Silent Bob
I love a Catwoman pic
Neo, Cyclops and the Crow
Disney Princess Leia
Toy army

There were so many great, original ideas for costumes.  Tyrese from the Walking Dead, the green plastic army men, Jay and Silent Bob – all brilliant concepts, executed skilfully.  I really love those apes, too.

Thanks to everyone who allowed me to take their portrait.  More pics soon…

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Memorabilia Birmingham NEC

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22/23 March 2014

Twice a year, the Memorabilia event at Birmingham NEC is a massive gathering of everything sci-fi, fantasy, and horror.  Whether it’s old or new; or from the worlds of film, television, comic books or whatever – there’ll be something representing all facets of geekdom.

An enormous event hall within the NEC houses stalls selling paraphernalia of every conceivable description.  Obviously I’m there for the Star Wars and Hammer stuff; but you’ll find Marvel and DC items, Doctor Who, the Terminator – you name it, it’s to be found there.  Toys, books, clothes, comics, props – memorabilia of all types.

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There are also displays, from costumes to vehicles (check out my post about the Evel Knievel exhibition).  I’ve seen American wrestlers grappling in the ring, robot wars and cars from the A-Team and Back to the Future.

You’ll also get the chance to meet actors from your favourite franchise and get their autograph.

Also, there are many people dressed up for the day as their favourite characters.  Some belong to fan groups; some are just there for a day out and choose to show off their geeky side.  Keen readers will remember photos from November 2013 posted previously.

I last went to the NEC for this event in March, earlier this year.  It’s been a while, but I thought visitors to the Virtual Hot Tub would be interested to see some photos from the event.

Alien Marines
Royal Guard
I do love a Catwoman pic
Awesome Loki
“How long have you had these droids?”
DM
Classic slave Leia
Hawkeye

The next Memorabilia at the NEC is 22nd and 23rd November 2014.  Take a look at the website here.

More Memorabilia photos can be found here: comics television film 

Slave Leia and Gamorrean
Trekkie Girl
My favourite costume of the day
Meeting Cheetara!
Hit Girl and the other guy…
Kick Ass, Spidey and Scarecrow
Judges
Leia and Mara Jade
Belle and Gaston
Claws out
Oola, Leia and Darth Talon
Super spies

Sci-Fi Weekender: Bonus Photos

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A bit like bonus tracks when you buy a CD, here are a few unseen extra pics from my recent visit to Sci-Fi Weekender.

Plus, it’s Star Wars Day – and a few of these photos count as a tribute.  May the 4th Be With You!

Urban Troopers
Jawa
Despicable
Coltrane
Gordons Alive!
Fight!!!
This wont hurt…
Happy Star Wars Day!
Best outfit ever

 

Sci-Fi Weekender part 2

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Sci-Fi Weekender 28th – 30th March 2014

Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli

Day Two – and Adam, Greeny, Kurt and myself were up bright and early to see what the day would bring.  LIE.  We had a lie in, went to get s cooked breakfast, got some supplies at the Spar, and chilled out in the chalet for a while.  We decided to wander down to see what was going just a little after the action began at midday.  Although impressed with what we’d witnessed so far, we still didn’t know what to expect.

Exploring the set up, we soon found the events and had a good look around the merchandise area.  I picked up a couple of cool items – a Star Wars figure I needed and a Countess Dracula t-shirt.  I could’ve spent a fortune if I’d had the money.  There was quite a buzz as fans scouted around for bargains and highly desirable paraphernalia.

Yeah Baby! Black Widow and Austin Powers
K-9
Chimp Trooper
No idea, but great costume
Superman
Stilt babes
Hellboy – at the bar
Kick-Ass, Black Cat, Catwoman
They are not Ewoks!

There were numerous discussion panels, interviews and signings through out the afternoon.  Luckily I caught a very interesting talk with 2000AD creator Pat Mills, refreshingly anti-authoritarian even after all these years.  There was quite a 2000AD presence, with some of my favourite artists of all time – Glenn Fabry and Simon Bisley – in attendance.  Somebody really should make a film version of Slaine…

I also caught a very entertaining chat with The Hobbit actor Graham McTavish.  Although I’ve yet to see the film(s), his interview was still engaging; with many captivating stories from behind the scenes.

Classic Battlestar Galactica
Jack and Sally
Minion
Meeting Wonder Woman!
Doc Brown and DeLorean
The Comedian
Optimus Prime!
The Phantom
Colonial Warriors – BSG
Star Gate
The Riddler, The Joker, The Penguin
Wow

Of course, the main attraction for me (except for beer) was taking photos of all the various fans who’d taken the time and trouble to dress up as their favourite characters.  There were some amazing costumes, as shown here and in the previous post.  Again, fans were more than happy to pose for photos.  The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming with no bad vibes on display anywhere.

The highlight of the evening was the Cosplay final – those who entered the competition were judged on the best costume.  I forget who won, but the talent and care on display was highly commendable – as you can see from the photos.

Martian girl – awesome outfit!
She- Ra and pal
Green Lantern
Sorry this pic didnt turn out better guys…
Not a great pic sorry, cool bunch though!
Rorschach
Droog
Rogue and Ms Marvel
Xena – with Wonder Woman
Tony Stark – nice guy!
The Bride
Painful

There were several Cosplayers I either missed getting a photo of, or the pic turned out rubbish.  My apologies – again, I’m not a professional.  It is with great shame that I cannot present for you here Jar Jar Green Screen, General Zod, the Beast and sexy Six of Nine silver Star Trek girl.  Sorry.  But I think Silk Spectre (below) makes up for that.

Dungeons and Dragons!
Wonder Woman and Silk Spectre
Pat Sharp – no mullet
Darth Elvis
At the bar

Another late night ended with the “legendary” Pat Sharp spinning the wax for a packed dance floor.  All in all, a great day with a real sense of community.

Finally, I must thank Glyn again for providing not only tickets but our accommodation.  I hope these reports give you some idea of how the event was.  Cheers!

Visit the Sci-Fi Weekender site here.

Sci-Fi Weekender part 1

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Sci-Fi Weekender 28th – 30th March 2014

Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli

I’ve been to a few all day events, such as Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC , but nothing like this.  The Sci-Fi Weekender is basically a convention over several days, held at a holiday park in North Wales.  There are guest speakers, merchandise, film showings and entertainment – all in one location.

My friend Glyn had won tickets for the event, but sadly was unable to go.  So he donated the tickets – and accommodation – to yours truly.  A total gent.  My comrades Adam, Greeny, and Kurt – plus Platinum Al – thus made the trip to check out what was going on.

This is part one of the adventure.

Emperor Palpatine
Judges on duty
Im a nice Dalek! Would you like to come for tea?
Magneto
Black Widow and Tony Stark
Obi-Wan
Rogue
The Simpsons, relaxing with Duff Man
The REAL Batman!

Our party left late on the Friday, due to work commitments.  With additional traffic problems on the A Double 5, when we arrived it was already dark.  No matter – the four of us found our chalet, dumped the luggage and went exploring.

Festivities were already well under way.  There was plenty of beer available, and many merry (though friendly) sci-fi types in various states of refreshment.  Several were dressed as characters from film, TV, books and comics; presenting a fantastic menagerie of fantasy figures.

Entertainment on the first night began for me with Professor Elemental.  The Professor is a purveyor of fine steampunk rap, apparently known as “chap-hop”.  Wearing pith helmet and rapping about tea and the British Empire, I found his act captivating and funny in equal measure.  Weaving funky beats out of old brass band music is no mean feat but the Prof raised the roof.  Catch him if you can, I promise a night you won’t forget!

Biker Scout and Stormtrooper
Wolverine
Judges
Slave Leia dude
Galactus
Willy Wonka
Black Cat
These two were a lovely couple!
Pennywise

Next up were Darth Elvis and the Imperials.  Yes, a Star Wars themed Elvis tribute act.  What more could anyone want?  Sheer magic.  Their songs consisted of Star Wars re-workings of Elvis hits, plus a groovy rendition of that Rebo Band classic, Lapti Nek.  Now there’s a song I never thought I’d ever hear played live.  The spectacle of numerous Star Wars characters rocking out together on stage was something to behold.  This band should be intergalactic!

That was about it for us, as we headed off to get some rest for Day 2.  Attica Rage played us out; would’ve loved to stay but we were wrecked.

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Gordons Alive!

You’ll see many pictures here of those who attended, wearing all sorts of wonderful costumes.  The hard work and imagination that went into these outfits is really exceptional. Plus, everyone was really happy to have their photo taken; there was a great fun atmosphere at the event. I’ll post more photos in the next instalment.  Please remember however – I am not a professional photographer!  The lighting was not always very good and everything was always a bit rushed….

Part 2 soon!

Visit the Sci-Fi Weekender website here.

Memorabilia NEC – Film Character Photos

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One more set of photos from my last visit to Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC.  I apologise – what with Christmas and all, I haven’t had chance to post these previously.

Earlier posts have showcased photos of Memorabilia punters dressed up as characters from comic books and television.  This set of shots features film based characters.  There are many more brave people dressed up at Memorabilia, far more than I’ve captured in this series of photos.  Good luck to them, I say.

I thought this was Underworld. Apparently it’s Aeon Flux?
Maleficent
Stormtrooper.
Pete and Hook getting on famously these days.
Transformers sucked. Great car though.
R2 close up.
Evil Queen.
Mrs Platinum Al meets the Terminator.

By the way – there are plenty more Star Wars photos from previous trips to Memorabilia.  Stay tuned!

Thanks to everyone at Birmingham NEC Memorabilia who posed for photos – all were very happy to do so.

Memorabilia NEC – TV character photos

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More from my recent visit to Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC.  This time, a few photos with a television theme.  Hope you enjoy.

The Cyber Men were always my favourite Doctor Who baddies.  Old and new versions for you here.

Lion-O was one of my favourite characters I saw all day.  Awesome.

Cyber Man.
Old school Cyber Man.
“PATSY!”
Lion-O.

Memorabilia NEC – Comic Character Photos

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On Sunday 24th November 2013, I went to the Memorabilia show at Birmingham NEC.  There I saw many wonderful things.  Here are a few characters from the world of comic books that you may like.

Rogue, Mystique and Black Widow.
Storm.
Loki.
Silk Spectre and Bane.
Rorschach.
Cat Woman.
Black Widow and double Lokis.
A smiley Cat Woman.
A grumpy Bat Man.
Poison Ivy.
“I am the Law!”