Fandom culture refers to the social and communal practices, behaviors, and norms developed around the collective interests of fans dedicated to particular media properties, such as films, television shows, books, video games, or other forms of entertainment. This culture encompasses the ways in which fans engage with the source material, interact with each other, and express their enthusiasm, often leading to the creation of fan art, fan fiction, and other derivative works.
Fandom culture is characterized by a sense of belonging among fans who share similar interests, often forming online or offline communities. These communities may gather in forums, social media platforms, conventions, and other events to celebrate their shared passions. Elements of fandom culture include rituals, such as cosplay (dressing up as characters), discussions, fan theories, and collaborative projects that enhance the enjoyment of the original material.
Moreover, fandom culture can also involve a critical engagement with the media, where fans analyze, critique, and dissect content, contributing to a larger discourse surrounding the narratives and characters they love. It can be both a source of joy and conflict, as differing interpretations and preferences within a fandom can lead to debates and divisions, yet it remains a vibrant aspect of contemporary media engagement.
The World Cosplay Summit (WCS) in Nagoya is celebrated as the largest global cosplay gathering, drawing over 250,000 attendees. Yamanaka Okura, a skilled cosplayer, garnered attention for her detailed portrayal…