London Film and Comic Con 2021 — One of the Best Days of My Life

A self-confessed nerd, I went to my first ever comic con in November 2021 at Olympia London, and it was one of the best days of my life.

Comic cons, short for Comic Book Conventions, started in America, but are now also held in many other countries. These events celebrate various aspects of popular culture, including comic books, science fiction, animation, gaming, and more. They can be seen as a hub for the pure expression of nerd culture.

I had some inkling of what to expect as comic cons are often discussed in my beloved American sitcom The Big Bang Theory. As soon as I walked in, I felt a sense of belonging; people were walking around dressed as characters from films, television shows, and comics. There were not as many people as I had seen on the American shows, which disappointed me slightly, but I was also relieved as I’m not a big fan of huge crowds.

As a major classic horror fan, I was especially excited that Robert Englund, who plays Freddy Krueger in the A Nightmare On Elm Street (1984–2010) film series would be there. I had felt confident enough to wear a Freddy Krueger costume with the addition of a designer Loungefly Freddy Krueger inspired bag, for which I got many compliments.

Comic cons also host merchandise stalls from iconic moments of popular culture, including collectible figures, plush toys, artwork, jewellery, and a free photo opportunity with a replica of the Ectomobile from Ghostbusters. I was starstruck when I spotted a man I follow on TikTok who cosplays as Freddy Krueger. I also adored a Jurassic Park family; the father dressed as the Park Keeper, and the children as velociraptors. If I’m honest, I was too excited by the prospect of meeting Robert Englund that I forgot who else attended! I had to wait approximately 30 minutes in line to meet him, but it was so worth it.

Robert Englund was one of the loveliest men I have ever met; as someone with mild cerebral palsy, I walk a little differently so I’m often faced with pitying stares. He, however, was so warm and welcoming. When I walked over for our picture, he smiled and said ‘Look at you, my little Freddyette!’ and he opened his arms as if to hug me, but these were Covid days and he was pulled back by staff! He told me that he loved my sweater. After the picture, I thanked him and as I collected my picture and walked away, he gently scratched the claws of his iconic glove over the ‘scratch’ marks on my backpack with a sinister chuckle.

Robert Englund was an absolute delight, but so were the many cosplayers I met. The kindness and feeling of acceptance is strong at events like these. If you’re nerdy and have the opportunity to go to a convention, you should definitely go — you will have the time of your life!

Have you ever been to a comic con?

Do you consider yourself to be a nerd?

Share your experiences in the comments section below!