These geeks are protesting injustice through cosplay
A NEW HOPE. Jedi master Obi Wan Kenobi protests the extrajudicial killings. Photo courtesy of A Hero's Call
MANILA, Philippines – Over 20 cosplayers are taking their superhero looks a step further, using their attention-grabbing costumes to further the discussion on corruption and injustice through a movement called “A Hero’s Call.”
The movement will feature a photo series where cosplayers in full costume pose with placards that talk about issues plaguing the country today.
GOD HELP THE OUTCASTS. The cosplayer channel's the fighting spirit of Esmeralda from Disney's 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame.' Photo courtesy of A Hero's Call
“As a geek and cosplayer it hasnt been sitting well with me that we consume a lot of media of heroes that fight for good, and love them enough to dress up and act like them, yet we haven’t used our passions to make something impactful about all the injustices that’re currently happening to our country,” said Maronne Cruz, the TV commercial actress and singer who started the initiative.
LIONNESS. Even villains like Cersei Lannister from 'Game of Thrones' are part of the movement against tyranny. Photo courtesy of A Hero's Call
“The message being sent out by this is: in a time where villains are very real it’s time to become our own heroes; it doesn’t matter who you are or what ou’re into, if you have a voice and if you have a passion you can use it for good,” she said.
From Disney leading ladies and Jedi masters, and even to a few choice villains, many of pop culture's most recognizable characters are speaking out against injustice and impunity.
CAPED CRUSADER. Bat Girl fights for human rights. Photo courtesy of A Hero's Call.
The entire series will include 20 superheroes and villains, with participants including Kikomachine’s Spider Dan Geromo, spoken word artist Serge Gabriel of Words Anonymous, and members of lightsaber performance group Fightsaber Philippines.
THE FORCE. Geeks battle the dark side. Photo courtesy of A Hero's Call
The series will be released on the group’s Facebook page on September 21, which is International Peace Day and the 45th anniversary of Martial Law. – Rappler.com
