In Vitrolles, Everyone Does What They Cosplay: Manga Expo Draws Enthusiastic Crowds
Vitrolles, France, played host to teh 3rd edition of Manga Expo this weekend, attracting hundreds of visitors deeply immersed in the vibrant world of manga, anime, and cosplay. The event showcased a stunning array of creativity and dedication, with attendees transforming themselves into beloved characters from across the pop culture spectrum.
Even before entering the main event hall, named after artist Guy Obino, attendees were greeted by a spectacle: two towering robots, easily surpassing the height of basketball player Victor Wembanyama (2 meters tall). These impressively detailed androids, reminiscent of the “transforming” franchise, immediately transported visitors into a different reality.
Inside, the atmosphere was electric.The crowd was a diverse mix of enthusiasts, mirroring the eclectic clientele of a Tatooine bar from Star wars. Characters from The Lord of the Rings,Mario Bros., and Pirates of the Caribbean mingled amongst attendees celebrating Japanese animation and comics.
To navigate this bustling landscape, our team enlisted the help of Cylan, a cosplayer portraying Obanai Iguro, a popular character from Demon slayer. Accompanied by his friends, portal and Mael, who embodied Mitsuri kanroji, also from Demon Slayer, Cylan provided invaluable insight into the nuances of this passionate subculture.
Demon Slayer itself is a global phenomenon, having sold over 220 million copies since its debut in 2016.Cylan, portal, and Mael were eager to share their knowledge with newcomers, explaining the core principles of manga, pop culture, and cosplay.
Though, Cylan was swift to emphasize a crucial distinction: “There’s a big difference between cosplay and a disguise.” he stressed that cosplay is a dedicated art form, requiring significant time, effort, and respect for the source material. It’s about embodying a character, not simply wearing a costume.
Manga Expo in Vitrolles proved to be a resounding success, demonstrating the growing popularity of manga and anime in France and the dedication of its passionate fanbase. The event offered a captivating glimpse into a world where imagination takes physical form, and where everyone truly does what they cosplay.