It's nearly that time of year again. That time of year when Storm Troopers wander through the city scoffing burgers from KFC, when superheroes catch the 385 and when comic stores and game centres across Brisbane go into overdrive. It's time for Supanova.
I'll be honest with you, my initiation into the world of comics, games and anime came late in my adolescence and was met with strong resistance. Before then, I thought I knew enough about pop culture. I had seen all the Star Wars movies (and enjoyed them), I loved the Lord of the Rings and I watched the Simpsons at 6pm on Channel 10. Surely that was enough?
Surely? Alas, I was wrong.
To any newcomer, the experience of Supanova is usually accompanied with a culture shock, or should I say a pop-culture shock. The sights, the sounds and the colours of peoples' costumes and hair all cumulate to a sensational wake up call for the senses.
Daniel Zachariou, the Event Director, described Supanova as a place where imagination meets reality. This couldn't be more true. The event brings the stars of movies and TV shows to the masses, with authors and artists also included in the star-studded lineup of guests. With big names like Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, making an appearance at past Supanova events, this year looks sure not to disappoint.
Actors Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future Trilogy), Colin Morgan (Merlin) and Evanna Lynch (Harry Potter series) are a few of the major guests expected to really draw in the crowds.
Just a few of the many guests expected at Supanova in November
But wait, Supanova isn't just about lining up to catch a glimpse of a few famous faces. Interspersed throughout the event are games, collectables, screenings, specialty items, wrestling, toys, exclusives, fun competitions and more. The ridiculous amount of things to see and do will exceed the number of hours one could humanly spend on their feet.
Try your hand at roleplaying games... Image used courtesy of Chris Harvey
My advice? Go with the flow, move with the crowd! Supanova is filled with people who are there to enjoy themselves, so let your hair down and join in. This event is for everyone and anyone who wants to have fun. Check out the website if you're planning to come along, as it has plenty of information about what to bring, what to expect and how to make the most of your time.
Tickets are available at the door or at a reduced price when pre-purchased through
Foxtix. Prices range from $18.80 (pre-purchase) for a Friday 1-day Pass to $49.50 (pre-purchase) for 3 days' entry to the event. Children aged under 12 years are admitted free with a paying adult, making this a very family friendly event.