Convention - Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show 2024: Godzilla conference with Shinichi Wakasa

By Mulder, Villepinte, Parc des Expositions, 16 march 2024

The Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show 2024 hosted an event that will live long in the memory of fans of kaiju and Japanese cinema: a conference dedicated to Godzilla, with none other than Shinichi Wakasa, the master of special effects and costume designer for numerous Godzilla films. The event offered a deep dive into the world of this iconic monster, a symbol of Japanese pop culture and a global figure in science-fiction cinema.

Shinichi Wakasa, whose work has been crucial in designing Godzilla's appearances since the 90s, passionately shared his experiences and challenges in creating the costumes and special effects that have brought Godzilla to life on the big screen. The conference covered a variety of topics, from traditional kaiju costume creation techniques to the technological advances that have transformed the way these gigantic creatures are portrayed.

Fans had the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of the creation of some of Godzilla's most iconic films. Wakasa explained how each costume was designed to reflect Godzilla's unique personality and powers, emphasizing the importance of meticulousness and innovation in his work. He also shared anecdotes from the shoot, revealing the immense teamwork required to bring these mythical creatures to life.

A highlight of the conference was the presentation of exclusive photos and videos showing Wakasa and his team at work, offering fans a rare glimpse into the creative process behind the scenes. This immersion into the world of special effects captivated the audience, giving them a deeper appreciation of the art and science behind the Godzilla films.

The conference also touched on Godzilla's evolution over the decades, from his first appearance in 1954 to his most recent incarnations. Wakasa discussed how Godzilla has become a powerful symbol, reflecting society's fears and hopes through the ages. He highlighted how this figure has transcended borders to become a global cultural phenomenon, loved by fans of all generations.

The Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show 2024 thus offered an unforgettable experience for Godzilla fans, enabling them to connect in a more intimate way with the universe of their favorite monster. Shinichi Wakasa's talk not only celebrated the legacy of Godzilla, but also inspired a new appreciation for the art of special effects and the magic of Japanese cinema.

The Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show is the leading event for all aficionados of pop culture, manga, anime and science fiction in France. A must-attend event over the years, this biannual show brings together under one roof an impressive diversity of activities, exhibitors and internationally renowned guests. Whether you're an avid collector, a passionate cosplayer, an inveterate gamer or simply curious about this fascinating universe, the Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show offers an unrivalled immersive experience. With booths dedicated to the latest in video games, comics, manga and anime, unique exhibition spaces such as movie cars and iconic sets from cult films and series, and meetings with artists and creators, this show is where passion meets creativity. Each edition is a promise of escape, learning and sharing, making the Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show an unmissable event for the geek community and beyond.

You can see our photos on our Flickr page

Information : 
Dates: March 16 & 17, 2024
Venue: Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte - Hall 5A
Website: www.parismanga.fr

Photos and video : Boris Colletier