The 36th edition of the Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show, held at the Parc des Expositions Villepinte on October 5-6, 2024, marked a memorable celebration of pop culture, anime, and science fiction. Among the many highlights was a special mini-concert by Enriqué, the French artist whose connection to the beloved anime Goldorak made his performance a particularly emotional moment for attendees.
Enriqué took the stage to perform two iconic theme songs from Goldorak, "Accours Vers Nous, Prince de l'Espace" and "Va Combattre Ton Ennemi," both of which hold a special place in French pop culture. Originally aired in 1978, these songs were integral to the early French adaptation of the Goldorak series, captivating viewers before they were replaced due to censorship. Though their time on the air was brief, these songs became legendary for fans who grew up with Goldorak, and hearing them live was a dream come true for many.
Enriqué’s performance transported the audience back to their childhoods, reviving the excitement and adventure of Goldorak's interstellar heroics. As fans sang along and waved memorabilia in the air, the mini-concert felt like a reunion with a piece of cultural history that had long influenced French anime enthusiasts. The nostalgic atmosphere was further heightened by the presence of life-sized Goldorak displays and themed exhibitions, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the legacy of the anime series that once captured the imagination of an entire generation.
In addition to the musical tribute, Enriqué engaged with fans through autograph sessions, providing them with a chance to meet the voice that helped define Goldorak's legacy in France. For many, this interaction deepened their connection to both the artist and the beloved series, offering a personal touch to an already unforgettable experience.
Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show 2024 boasted a vast range of events and attractions beyond the Goldorak tribute. With over 55,000 attendees, this year’s event included special guest appearances from international stars like Andy Serkis, known for his roles in Lord of the Rings and Planet of the Apes, Lana Parrilla from Once Upon a Time, and Christopher Judge from Stargate SG-1. Themed exhibitions such as the Harry Potter Expo and the Zelda Hyrule Expo provided additional immersive experiences for fans of all ages.
The cosplay community, always a staple of the Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show, brought its A-game this year with vibrant contests and exhibitions. From the Coupe de France de Cosplay to countless workshops on costume design, fans had numerous opportunities to showcase their creativity. Meanwhile, the Japanese cultural section introduced attendees to traditional and modern aspects of Japanese arts, including martial arts demonstrations, origami workshops, and calligraphy.
Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show 2024 was a cultural melting pot, drawing together fans of anime, science fiction, and pop culture from across Europe. It’s not just the grand scale of the event but the diversity of its offerings that continue to attract a loyal following year after year. Whether reliving the magic of Goldorak with Enriqué or discovering the latest in manga and sci-fi culture, the event offered something for every attendee.
This 36th edition of the Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show will be remembered not only for its large turnout but also for how it celebrated both nostalgia and modern pop culture in one unforgettable weekend.
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Photos and Video : Copyright Boris Colletier / Mulderville