Tokusatsu is the term used to refer to any live-action films that features considerable use of special effects that deals with science fiction, fantasy or horror characterized by vibrant characters and fantastic themes.
Henshin con was a 2-day event, a gathering especially for “Tokusatsu fanatics.” This is a once-a-year chance of being able to live in the world of their favorite superheroes and super villains. It was astonishing how these ordinary people suddenly transformed into their favorite characters as they wore their costumes with so much pride and dignity.
Day 1: The Henshin Con Launch Party
The first day was held at One Esplanade on March 21, 2015. It was an assembly organized by JEFusion offered to all Super fanatics, with a special appearance by veteran tokusatsu actors Ryousuke Kaizu who played Red Mask in Laser Squadron Maskman and Ken Shindachiya who played as Five Blue in Chikyuu Sentai Fiveman. Guest performances by local J-Music performers added more spice to that evening’s event. A panel discussion, autograph signing, and close interaction with the actors themselves, as well as live tokusatsu stage show transpired. Tokusatsu items like scripts from old shows were also auctioned that night. Dinner was served for everyone who attended the affair together with their acclaimed Tokusatsu icons.
EVENTS ON DAY 1:
- DINNER WITH GUEST TOKUSATSU STARS: RYOUSUKE KAIZU AND KEN SHINDACHIYA
- PANEL DISCUSSION, AUTOGRAPH SIGNING AND AUCTION OF ORIGINAL TOKUSATSU ITEMS
HENSHIN CON MAIN EVENT
Day 2: The Henshin Con Event Proper
The event proper took place at the SMX convention center. A number of activities were prepared for those who graced the event. A live band sang their heart out as they sung their much loved Tokusatsu show soundtrack.
In line with the whole event, a Henshin hero karaoke singing contest, original henshin hero character design, henshin hero cosplay clash, battle of the bands, and diorama contest ensued. Indeed, being in the world of Tokusatsu characters is very much different from the real world. It was an amazing experience to witness how these fanatics escape from their real battles in life to experience becoming “somebody else” in that fantasy world. It is truly a
work of art from their creative imaginations. And deeper than the expression of self and creativity is the desire to be able to work for a cause.
Part of the proceeds for the Henshincon 2015 will go to their two chosen beneficiaries: HAPI (Human Alliance Philippines International), PEARL (People Empowerment for ARthritis and Lupus). PEARL was a chosen recipient through Edrick John “EJ” Anasarias, a psoriatic arthritis patient and an excellent sketch artist despite having hand deformities. Through this event, PEARL was able to connect with other people and introduce what its ideals and& aspirations. EJ was joined by Robelle Tanagunan (lupus patient) and Zenaida “Zeny” Estrada (rheumatoid arthritis patient) who actively participated in the event.
Robelle was a guest judge for the contests, while Zeny rapped as she introduced PEARL to the audience.
Indeed, it was a novel experience for PEARL, Robelle, Zeny, Ej and for all the staff and fellows along with their families who participated and gladly experienced this 2-day event.
