Brisbane is becoming quite a hub for geeky events. Oz Comic Con attempts to scratch the comic-lover itch we all have, with a great combination of comic stalls, guests, retro shops, and a bunch of artists and authors to keep everyone’s attention.
With a few other big events around, Oz Comic Con has a focus on comics. Entering, you’re met with the King’s Comic stall, one of Australia’s biggest comic retailers, and two of the headlining guests were Hayley Atwell, of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Agent Carter, and Keiynan Lonsdale, who plays Wally West/Kid Flash in a few of the Arrowverse’s DC television series.
You could have spent all day browsing the stalls for books, graphic novels, and toys, but a few examples with a craft-ey bent stood out. There was a lot to draw inspiration from.
I found an entire stall devoted to fabric with geeky patterns. While I’m not the sewing type, I was tempted by some Zelda and Pokemon fabric. I was even tempted by a print that featured Flintstones characters. It’s enough to get me to take up sewing, and I’m sure it wouldn’t be hard to put together something that people would love if it’s of their favourite comic or TV show.
A giant Lego Hogwarts overtook a big table to the rear of the room, built with stunning detail. Kids were fascinated, and their parents were too. There’s something about seeing something we’ve all imagined (I’m not counting the movies here) in blocky detail. They even had a Quidditch ground!
With a feature such as this, I’ll admit I was a bit disappointed to not see a stall with a big Lego selection. I’m sure this table would’ve piqued a lot of interest. I saw some older Lego sets around in some of the retro toy stalls, but it seems like a missed opportunity for some sales synergy.
A significant mention goes to one of the smaller stages in the corner that was devoted to talks about creativity, including being a resilient author, learning the basics of cosplay, and learning how to make board games. What could initially be overlooked when compared to some of the stars on the big stages, it was a good chance to take a break and learn a little about a craft. It was a good addition, and one that I hope to see more of.
And then, between the stalls and talks amidst the comic-loving attendees were cosplayers ranging in facepaint and fun shirts to decked out armour and cloaks. It’s shows like this that give the fans opportunities to show their favourite fandoms in various degrees of costume, whether simple wigs or t-shirts, or full regalia. I wore my best Pokemon shirt for the occasion.
Overall, while Oz Comic Con could be just another day for Brisbane to be full of people in costumes, it makes the event its own, and one I look forward to every year.
Oz Comic Con moves to Sydney next weekend. Get details about the schedules and tickets here.
(This feature and review was written by Brice Fallon)
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