Though Australian fan conventions aren’t as intense as their American siblings, it’s clear that we love events like Supanova.
The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre was filled to the brim with cosplayers, fans, artists, and performers from 27-29 November as stars from Australia and around the world converged to celebrate fandom in all its quirky glory.
This year, Supanova welcomed some of the biggest names in classic television and movies. Barbara Feldon, the face of heroine secret agent 99 in ‘Get Smart’ was on hand to talk about her work with some of the greatest comedians of the generation, the iconic figure of 99, and her impact on the current crop of action heroines.
Barbara Feldon - Image © Lisa Thompson
Barbara Eden, glamourous star of ‘I Dream of Jeanie’ fame, spent her conversation session dazzling fans of her musical and comedic career with tales of Elvis, Sidney Sheldon, and even being trapped on set with a lion.
Barbara Eden - Image © Kylie Thompson
In terms of celebrities, Peter Mayhew may not be a household name, nor an easily recognisable face, but his impact on sci-fi history makes him a legend for many a ‘Star Wars’ fan. The actor behind Chewbacca, the Wookie hero, wowed fans with tales of his time in the Wookie suit, and life after the role.
For those with more modern tastes, Neville Longbottom himself, Matthew Lewis gave fans a glimpse into the world of child stardom and life after ‘Harry Potter’. The comedy fans were also in for a treat, with Nick Frost talking comedy, movie making and the joys of having a friend in the latest ‘Star Trek’ franchise.
Dean Haglund stole the con spotlight, though, with his improvised comedy tribute to the show that launched his career, ‘The X Files’. Bringing audience members on stage to provide comic relief, Haglund made the first night of the con an unmissable event.
But it isn’t only screen stars that draw crowds at Supanova. Writers and illustrators from Australia and around the world wowed crowds with workshops to help aspiring creatives reach their dreams, and readers get their niggling questions answered.
Isobel Carmody - Image © Kylie Thompson
After nearly 30 years of waiting, the staggering conclusion to ‘The Obernewtyn Chronicles’ has been released, and fans loved the chance to learn more about the saga from author Isobelle Carmody.
Cosplayers were out in force (the detail in costuming was astounding), with a wealth of characters on hand to pose with fans. Breast Pool, a ‘Deadpool’ cosplayer raising funds for breast cancer research and support, was an incredibly popular guest, but the absolutely realistic ‘Civil War’ team stopped more than a few guests in their tracks, as well.
Captain America cosplayer - Image © Kylie Thompson
The ‘Madman National Cosplay Championships’ grand final was a not-to-be-missed extravaganza for those with a love of inventive and detailed costuming, featuring a host of impressive cosplay artists bringing their best creations to the stage.
Cons aren’t just about rushing from panel to panel, though. Shopping is a large part of the convention experience, and a range of authors, artists, costumers and fashion labels were there to help fans find new and brilliant things to own.
Whether looking for armour or prop weapons, new books or DVDs, or the latest ‘Pop Vinyl’ figures to add to the collection, there was something to fall in love with regardless of your fandom or how deep the obsession runs.
Even a violent storm at the end of the final day couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of guests and everyone seems to be eagerly awaiting next year’s Supanova.
