Capes, collectibles & cosplay: Comic Con wraps up first HK edition with robust sales

Comic Con wraps up its inaugural Hong Kong edition at the Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Local exhibitors and an American comic artist both note stronger sales at the event than at similar conventions elsewhere.

Superheroes galore in Wan Chai's Convention and Exhibition Centre.

From Batman to Deathstroke, as the three-day Comic Con enters its final day with parents and children transforming themselves into their favourite comic book characters.

NICK: "The kids obviously love comics, video games, superheroes, and so it's a great place to have them experience."

CHARMAINE: "The atmosphere is a bit different from Hong Kong ACG (Animation-Comic-Game) and people are super nice. Compared to what we usually have, people here at HKCC speak more English to us."

Among the exhibitors is American illustrator James Harris.

Having taken part in around ten Comic Cons across Japan and the United States, Harris says this was his most successful convention yet.

Sales approached 100,000 Hong Kong dollars -- roughly 40 percent higher than what he typically earns at Japanese events.

American Comic Artist JAMES HARRIS: "This is the best I've ever had, ever -- without a doubt. I'm still blown away. I feel like I'm living a dream right now. The people are 100 percent -- do the best to support us. So we really appreciate that."

Local exhibitors also report strong business.

This Hong Kong toy retailer offered up to 20% discount on selected items and says sales are around 20% higher than at previous local animation jamborees.

Its founder Jan Lam hopes the event can help introduce more home-grown comic and entertainment properties to international audiences.

Beyond shopping, visitors had the chance to see more than 200 movie props and collectibles inspired by superhero films.

Among the highlights are signed memorabilia, including items linked to the late Chadwick Boseman, best known for portraying Black Panther, as well as shields and props associated with some of cinema's most iconic heroes.

Visitors without elaborate costumes like (TVB Reporter Jacky Lin) could also join in the fun, as some exhibitors hand out character-themed headpieces like this to help everyone get into the Comic Con spirit.

What began as a modest comic book gathering founded in San Diego 56 years ago has evolved into a global pop-culture phenomenon -- and now, for the first time, it has brought its superhero magic to Hong Kong.