Man of Steel and Trinity Set

Photo by Future Photography by M3 with edit by
SII Posters

Planning a photo shoot with a large team of artists takes time and patience. It took several months to plan a Man of Steel themed photo shoot which included costumers Jason of JET Cosplay, Kevin D Cosplay and photographers Miguel of Future Photography by M3, Marvin of Hero Hotties, Brian of Green House Photography and Piera of Photos and Designs by Piera. The shoot took place in my home thus proving that having a creepy large basement can in fact be good for something. Many people drove a long distance to make the shoot a possibility and when they all arrived, I was dressed up as Queen Elsa from Disneys Frozen (having just returned from entertaining children at a birthday party).  It was exciting that this was finally coming together. I loved the Man of Steel movie and we had an amazing cast of costumers and photographers. We also decided to take things a step further; since Kevin cosplays Batman and I cosplay Wonder Woman, this was a great opportunity to get some Trinity shots.

Two costume changes were required for me for the Man of Steel set; Lois Lane and Faora. After washing off my Elsa makeup and slipping off the blue sparkly gown, I changed into Lois Lane (which requires less makeup than Faora). Superman and Lois shots were taken as well as Superman, Lois and General Zod. 

Have I ever mentioned how much it irritates me that they kept Amy Adams red hair for the role of Lois? I wouldnt have to wear a wig for this if Zack Snyder remained accurate to Lois appearance. Amy Adams doesnt look like Lois Lane in Man of Steel; she just looks like Amy Adams. It took me forever to find a wig this shade of red. Lucky for me I found it at a wig shop local to a relatives house. It was the only orange based red wig in the store priced at $25. It was literally collecting dust on display. It is quite beautiful however and it will be used for Anna from Frozen for parties. 

Next up is Faora which is a costume I have only worn once for a brief shoot earlier this year. Unfortunately with all of the chaos of the day, I forgot to put my belt on and didnt realize it until I saw the photos. Costume fail. The short wig is made of human hair. I tend to feel quite self conscious in it but it photographs well.

After a pizza break, it was time for Zod and Faora to change into Batman and Wonder Woman for some epic Trinity shots and one romantic shot with Superman.

Great times were had behind the camera and a lot of laughs. For some, it was the first time meeting and working with one another and it was an absolute blast. New friendships were made, fond memories and some stunning art. My thanks to all of the artists involved with the shoot whom I am honored to call friends. 

Visit me on my Official Facebook Page

Read More..

Fan Boys Dont Own Me

Photo by Bodhi Tree Photography

Get ready for a very honest and to-the-point entry. I am very upset. Recently I have been dealing with fan boys who make sure to attend every appearance I make in the area. Now you may say its great that I have people who support me however it appears that some seem to be getting angrier and angrier with me. The reasons vary; I didnt respond to something they wrote on my Public Facebook Page or they ran into me at a show and I did not have the courtesy to post that I would be there. This feeling that they have, that I am obligated to inform them of where I am going and it is my duty to respond to them on my page makes me uneasy.



Like many cosplayers around the world, I like to share the work that my photographers and I do online. I love to attend conventions to have fun with my friends and loved ones as an attendee. Sometimes I am there as a guest or a member of the press. On other occasions, I have been there on behalf of the charity organization I work for. Ive promoted appearances that I make but I do not promote when I am going to have a sign up table for the charity organization. The reason for that is, I must keep "Victoria Cosplay" and the charity work I do separate. The focus of the charity work is to spread our mission and inform local costumers who may be interested in joining our cause. I am not there to promote myself or sell pictures. It is about giving back.

Do I deserve fan boys getting angry with me to my face because I did not promote that I was going to be at a show even after I explained my reasons? No. I shouldnt even have to give a reason. Its my private decision on weither I want to make public where I am going. Am I obligated to respond to comments made on my page which has over 9,000 people on it? No. Its impossible to respond to every one. Yes, I appreciate the people who have supported my work but I was never in this for the "Likes". I costume because it makes me happy. I am not doing it for anyone else. I do it for me. I know there are other women out there who say they do it for the fans. They accept gifts through the mail and take votes on what character you want them to dress up as next. They make it very clear they are doing this for you, the fans. That is not me.

Costuming is a form of self expression for me. It is an outlet for me to express myself creatively. Its amazing that people support me. Its amazing that people like my work. I am by no means brushing my supporters off. I appreciate it beyond words. But dont act like you own me. Dont approach me as if I owe you because you clicked "Like" on my page. Respect the boundaries. Respect my duties to charity. And respect my decisions if I dont want to make pubic what shows I am going to and who I am with.

Please feel free to hit "Unlike" if you wish. Its not the end of the world for me.

Read More..

Freedom Japanese Market Candy Product Review

Lets be honest; we all love candy! Recently, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to try some sweets from The Land of The Rising Sun; Japan! Freedom Japanese Market is an online store where you can order Japanese products that are delivered right to your front door. Several options are available ranging from sweet to sour candy, DIY candy, gum, mints and even food and spices. Freedom Japanese Market offers a snack box subscription where one pound of an assortment of candy and snacks are delivered to your home for $25 a month. Shipping is free worldwide. There are no renewal or handling fees. You can even send a box as a gift! Subscriptions are handled through paypal. You can cancel your subscription anytime without a penalty fee. Lets take a look at the yummy treats I received from Japan!



My snack box included a very helpful list with photos and a description of all of the snacks and candy in the box (which was very helpful because the writing on the candy is in Japanese). The friendly letter also included an origami heart made by Sanae for Valentines Day. Below is a list of the candy I received along with a description and my thoughts on taste testing the products:

1. Dark Chocolate Kit-Kats: The classic Kit-Kats you love, coated in delicious layer of dark chocolate. My thoughts: I am actually not a very big fan of dark chocolate however, I found that the wafer combined with dark chocolate was very delicious. The wafer made the dark chocolate less over powering.

2. Kanpai Ramune: This mini mug is filled with ramune candies. My thoughts: This candy was very yummy and had a taste that very much reminded me of lemon iced tea.

3. Rilakkuma Petzles: Honey butter flavored pretzel sticks in very cute bear package. My thoughts: This was one of my favorites snacks in the box! The honey pretzels were sweet without being sugary.

4. Karamucho: Hot chili flavored potato chips; a favorite in many Japanese homes! My thoughts: These are the type of potato chips that you cant stop eating! The chili flavor was very satisfying without being salty like American potato chips. They were not oily or greasy. This was another personal favorite of mine.

5. Umaibo: This months flavors are pizza (green, white, and red) and onion salad (gold package). My thoughts: This was another snack that wasnt over powered with salt so you can really taste the flavor. It is best described as a very large cheese puff in terms of texture and shape.

6. Pokemon Karipori: A delicious tart, slightly fizzy candy with a grape or melon flavored candy coating. My thoughts: This candy is like pop rocks but in the form of sticks. This is something kids would definitely love!

7. Kaki no Mi: These savory rice crackers are a great little snack, and are really hard to put down. This product contains nuts. My thoughts: These thick crackers are very hearty and have a taste of sesame to them.

8. PukuPuku Tai: Similar to traditional Japanese Taiyaki, but with fluffy chocolate filling instead of sweet bean paste. Fortified with calcium! My thoughts: Another one of my personal favorites! This wafer had a creamy chocolate center that was mouth watering.

9. Hora Dekita DIY Candy: Making "candied apples" is as easy as following the directions on the package! My thoughts: This was hands down my favorite product! The miniature candy apples came with candy syrup for dipping and sprinkle candy. The candy apple was soft and the syrup wasnt overly sweet.

10. Maze Maze Drink: Mix and match candies to create your own flavors and tell us what you like best! My thoughts: Fun flavored candy very much like jelly beans.

Final thoughts: I discovered a very big difference between American candy and Japanese candy. American products seem to be packed with more salt and sugar thus masking the flavor whereas Japanese candy doesnt use the ingredients as much therefore, you get more of the flavor. On the occasions that I do eat candy, I tend not to eat too  much because it is too sweet and makes my teeth hurt. I didnt have that problem with any of the candy I taste tested. Everything was favorable yet light. It was very enjoyable tasting amazing candies and snacks from overseas. CLICK HERE  for information on ordering a subscription box!

Visit me on my Official Facebook Page

Read More..

Advance Man of Steel Movie Review

First and foremost Id like to inform my readers that this is a non-spoiler review. In the digital age its very difficult not to have a highly anticipated book, movie or television show ruined for you. I personally find it frustrating and I do not want to damage anyones experience seeing this film. This is my gift to you, dear readers.

On Monday June 10th, the Man of Steel premiered in New York City in addition to premiering at 5 other theatres across the country. One of them was in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania where I attended as a guest of my cousin, who obtained advanced tickets. Before the film began, audience members were shown the Black Carpet premier in New York live. Cast members such as Henry Cavill, Amy Adams and Micheal Shannon were interviewed as well as director Zack Snyder and writer David Goyer. We were encouraged to tweet questions to the cast and cameras were also set up inside our theatre so that the cast could see us and wave. After the Black Carpet premiere, the movie immediately began without any previews. It was shown in IMAX 3D.



In an effort to write a spoiler free review, I will be breaking down different categories of the film.

Special Effects

Krypton is finally brought to life in a visually stunning way that is reminiscent of the Kevin J. Anderson novel "The Last Days of Krypton".  Every aspect of kryptonian culture is highly detailed in the environment, animals, technology, vehicles and wardrobe. This is Krypton like weve never seen  but its also eerily familiar because its the planet that Superman fans have envisioned for decades. The battle scenes throughout the film were well choreographed and super speed played a very big role. It resulted  in very intense and often ruthless fighting sequences. And believe me when I say weve never seen Superman fly quite like this. The sonic boom alone is enough to make you stare at the screen in child like wonder.

The Plot

As with any film adaptation, some creative liberties were taken and there are changes from the comic book. It is done however, in good taste and in my opinion, nothing was far off enough to release the "angry geek girl" in me. Screenwriter David Goyer wrote for the Justice Society of America for 4 years and has a good understanding and perspective on earths greatest hero. There is so much going on in terms of the characters as individuals, their relationships with each other, action sequences and plot progression that its hard to be bored with this film.

The Cast

When casting was first announced, it was met with mixed reaction. A British Superman? An African-American as Perry White? Lois Lane is a red head? Rumors were swirling at early screenings that Lois was a weak character in the story. Even I had my doubts but waited to reserve judgement for the films release. In my opinion the cast did a superb job on playing their roles. Henry Cavill in particular is the most believable Superman Ive seen. He brought the many different layers of the Man of Steel to life with realism and conviction. I was afraid that I would be comparing Micheal Shannons preformace of General Zod to that of Terrance Stamp, but Micheal truly made it his own and gave a brilliant preformance. Lois Lane was anything but weak. Amy Adams was the strong, independent, spunky reporter that we all love. The only character I felt was a weak link was Perry White. He wasnt however essential to the films plot. He does  have a moving scene towards the end which shows his strength, integrity and honor as a character.

The Score

Admit it. When you think of Superman you hear John Williams infamous score from the Christopher Reeves films (that was also used for Superman Returns), running through your head. Its classic and iconic but dont expect to hear it in Man of Steel. The theme has officially been retired, a decision I wholeheartedly agree with and replaced by new music by the legendary Hans Zimmer. During seating at the advance screening, audience members were treated to selections of the soundtrack and it was stunning.

Final Thoughts

I would like to report that there was a scene towards the end of the film that will be viewed as controversial. Im anxious for the rest of the world to see it and gage their thoughts and opinions. I personally sat in my seat stunned. Thats not to say that I disagreed with it. It just genuinely shocked me and its something I never thought I would see nor can I recall it ever taking place in the comics (although its something very similar to a different character in the DCU). It drew applause from audience members but one angry fan was yelling about the context of the scene outside the theatre.

I grew up watching the Superfriends, the Fleischer Superman cartoons, the Ruby Spears Superman cartoon show and the Christopher Reeves films. I collected Superman memorabilia and just when I dove head first into  his comics, DC killed him off in the Death of Superman. I often dreamed of flying through the air with him and being his Lois Lane. Superman captured my imagination like no other. The alien who fell to earth and raised by farmers. He looked like one of us but didnt belong. He was the most powerful being on earth and yet used his gifts to protect, not hurt mankind. He was a shining example on how we should stand for truth, justice and the American way.

In 2006 Warner Brothers release Superman Return which resulted in disappointing box office records and disgruntled fans. Trust me when I say that Man of Steel is the Superman film we have been waiting for. Its the perfect combination of sci-fi, action, love and comic book lore. Where others have failed, Zack Snyder and his creative team have gotten it right. The result is not only the greatest Superman film ever to grace the screen but is now arguably one of the best superhero movies of all time.

Read More..

Cosplay Spotlight Abby Dark Star

The lovely and talented Abby Dark-Star is well known by comic fans and cosplayers alike. The multi talented beauty took some time out to chat with the Confessions of a Cosplay Girl Blog about making body armor, putting together her epic Arkham Asylum Poison Ivy, married life with fellow geek Zendragon and much more!





Victoria: How long have you been in the hobby of costuming?


Abby: I have been costuming since about 2006/07? I dont quite remember but it seems like forever!


Victoria: You have a very impressive portfolio of stunning costumes. How many characters have you brought to life?


Abby: I have brought probably over 20 characters to life? I honestly havent kept track, I see a character and go "shiny" and then Im off.


Victoria: One of my favorite costumes you have done is the Arkham Asylum version of Poison Ivy. Can you tell me about the process of creating it?


Abby: Arkham Asylum Poison Ivy was a tricky costume because it was very detailed. It involved body paint and prosthetics. I knew that it wasnt feasible to spend hours applying prosthetics so I came up with the idea of using a body stocking. I had Mike S. of DragonFyre Designs sculpt the vines which where then cast. I modified the body stocking and then applied the vines. The shirt was modified and I put the blue edging on it. The logo was applied to the back of the shirt. The wig was entirely done by me, as it was a base wig and then wefts sewn in to create the dramatic widows peak that Ivy has. I then had a body artist paint my face, chest, hands and arms, and also apply the prosthetics. It was a long process, but well worth it!


Victoria: How did you learn to make more complex items such as body armor?


Abby: Im still learning to make body armor! Thankfully I have great resources in the RPF and talented friends. Worbla is the most often used medium right now, and there are epic tutorials from Kamui cosplay online that can really help people get started!


Victoria: Youre a newly wed! Congrats on your marriage! What was your wedding like?


Abby: Thanks! Our wedding was a convention. No, seriously! It started off as a way to celebrate my bday and then Zen and I decided, what the hey, why not get married? So we did! We had a long weekend with tons of friend in Vegas, we did limos, parties, had a VIP section at Steel Panther, it was amazing. Our wedding itself was in a gorgeous almond orchard! Of course there was geeky stuff everywhere as we asked our guests to bring a prop and even dress up. It was amazingly special.


Victoria: Is it fun sharing a life with someone who is as passionate about the hobby as you are?


Abby: I love being Zens partner in this crazy costuming life we have. We really balance each other well! Were both crazy about accuracy and detail, so we encourage, inspire and create together. He is my partner in everything!


Victoria: What costumes do you have planned for the future?


Abby: Right now Im planning on revamping some old costumes, as well debut a new costume for a video game Im in, "Crystal Fury" from Comic ConQuest!


Victoria: An artist recently made a beautiful statue of you as fem Indiana Jones. Whats it like being a statue?

Abby: Its hard to be a statue...you cant breathe or eat! Haha! No it is a wonderful compliment to be chosen to be immortalized like that, and I really love the fact that what would usually be my take is all going to charity!


Victoria: How has costuming impacted your life in a positive way?


Abby: Costuming has enabled me to make amazing friends, have fantastic experiences and even recently allowed me to change career paths. Without costuming I wouldnt have been able to meet my husband, my best friend, or anyone else that is now part of my world!


Victoria: Where can people contact you and view a portfolio of your work?


Abby: Facebook is the easiest way to see my daily geekery, so facebook.com/abbydarkstar

Read More..

Product Review Vinyl Steel Boned Underbust Corset

This Black Vinyl Steel Boned Underbust Corset is currently listed on the Three Muses Clothing website. With a retail price of $79.99, it is currently on sale for $59.99 but theres even better news for readers of Confessions of a Cosplay Girl! Enter this special code for a $10 discount, bringing the total to $50! Offer expires September 14th, 2014. Code: cosplayvic



The underbust corset has a cotton jean lining, modesty panel in the back and and nylon shoe string lace. There is steel boning in the front, back and sides. It also comes with 6 garter loops. It is to be dry cleaned only. This corset also features waist tape. Waist tape is a sturdy piece of non-stretch ribbon (or tape) that is located at the smallest part of the waist. The smallest part of the waist is where corsets are most stressed. The waist tape helps stitches from breaking at the waist which helps the corset last longer. Its an amazing feature. This underbust is available in sizes ranging from extra small to 5X. Three Muses Clothing ships all throughout the U.S. and Internationally. There are 3 shipping options available.

I ordered my corset in a size small. The item arrived in a priority box and was wrapped in tissue paper. The product was brand new with no defects or damage. The corset is very sturdy and strong. I really love the shine of the vinyl. I love the effect it gave my sexy Star Wars Imperial Officer outfit. This underbust can be used for a large variety of different costumes and club wear. You can mix this with a dress, a shirt or any type of bra or lingerie. I was pleased with the fast shipping, product accuracy and excellent communication with Three Muses Clothing.

To view a listing and to purchase this item, CLICK HERE and dont forget to use the promo code for $10 off: cosplayvic

Read More..