While it didn’t feel quite like the first day of spring outside, fans still came out for the annual March Comicon at Toronto's Metro Convention Centre. The event brings together artists, writers, actors and fans in an entertaining atmosphere jam-packed with activities to get rid of those winter blues. It's a perfect way for families to end March Break.
This year celebrated some anniversaries with screening of the 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, celebrating its 35th anniversary, along with a 25th anniversary screening of Shrek including a live band performance of Smash Mouth’s “All Star.”
Mara Wilson, well known for her roles in movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Matilda, Miracle on 34th Street and Thomas and the Magic Railroad, delighted fans with two panels to discuss her work in movies, television, stage, and audibles. She spoke fondly about Robin Williams and told stories about him on set. She joked that upon learning about the plot of Miracle on 34th Street, she asked if the girl didn’t believe in Santa Claus because she was Jewish like Mara's family. She explained that in her experience, child actors were very much people pleasers and that they felt they had to live up to the image that the public had of them.
Cary Elwes was popular guest with fans, who know him from movies such as The Princess Bride, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Glory and more recently, the TV series Stranger Things. He told heartfelt stories of working with the late Rob Reiner and André the Giant, emphasizing the emotional connection fans have with The Princess Bride, often reminiscing about watching the film with their parents. He said he wasn't surprised that he'd been asked to sign a few old, worn videotapes of this movie.
Gamers enjoyed dedicated gaming rooms and panels focused on Dungeons and Dragons, while cosplayers showcased their elaborate costumes on a red carpet, celebrating their hard work in creating them throughout the year. Families appreciated the Friendverse area, where kids could play and pose for photo ops. As the event concluded, excitment buzzed for the upcoming Fan Expo in August. Photos and article by Joanne Chu-Fook.