London MCM Expo, Excel Centre
24-25 October 2009

Truth be told, there weren’t many ‘heavyweight’ stars at October’s MCM Expo in London. But then the stars are more of a side attraction at conventions these days: it’s all about the cosplay.

38,366 visitors rolled through the doors at the two-day event, and over half were clad in wildly inventive costumes. From Stormtroopers to Supergirl and from Kill Bill to Pokémon (along with plenty of original creations), the costumes were varied, colourful and lovingly crafted. We were informed that costumed fans were even gathering around the Excel centre a night early to soak up the atmosphere!

Little wonder, then, that the biggest draws of the weekend turned out to be such events as the cosplay panel (costumed veterans offering advice, including pick a costume that reflects your character best and make sure you check if it’s practical – and legal – to bring colossal weapons into conventions) and the much-loved Cosplay Ball.

Elsewhere, writers and artists (including Ben Templesmith, Garen Ewing, Alan Grant and many others) gathered in the Comics Village; Tom Baker and Craig Charles signed autographs; and everything from the gaming stands to the Rock Band karaoke proved insanely popular.

On the main stage, the highlight – for me at least – was a rare chance to see Ronny Cox (Robocop, Total Recall) play country songs with his band; a perfect, if unusual, way to spend an early afternoon!

Director Marc Price and star Alastair Kirton also offered a fascinating insight into the making of their no-budget zombie hit Colin, while comics writer Andy Diggle and artist Jock shed light on Optimum's upcoming adaptation of their popular comic, The Losers. The latter were joined by one of stars of The Losers, Idris Elba: some fans of The Wire were surprised to hear the actor’s real London accent for the first time!

True Blood’s Nelsan Elli (Lafayette) was, perhaps, less insightful, though he was thrown a few inane questions (“What advice can you offer budding filmmakers?” is never a great question to pose to an actor. The response was appropriately clichéd: “Be true to yourself!”). In any case, the packed, cheering crowd were obviously overjoyed to have a star of their favourite show before them.

Once again, then, MCM turned out to be a hectic, colourful and slightly nutty weekend. Long may it continue! James Skipp