JIN A.K.A BEHINDINFINITY Enters the Cage for Apcc 2017!
The Asia Pop Comic Con has been the undisputed king of all pop life conventions in the country. This is one of the biggest hobby, comic, toy, and celebrity conventions not only in the Philippines but also in the region! Not only is the APCC home to hundreds of retailers, and thousands of fans, it is also the home of The CAGE!
The CAGE (Cosplay Authority Global Challenge) is a premier cosplay competition that pits both amateur and professional cosplayers from around the world against each other! And with a whopping $18,000 cash prize, things are sure to heat up! Let’s meet one of the guests of this year’s CAGE with an exclusive interview, none other than the energetic Jin!
Jin of behindinfinity Speaks Up!
Photo via facebook
Yuneoh got the inside scoop when we grabbed the chance to sit down with Jin. Check out the full interview below!
How old were you when you fell in love cosplaying?
I’ve loved costumes ever since I can remember! I’m just happy that cosplaying now allows me to do it in a more refined manner.
What is the most challenging experience you had as an Cosplayer and how were you able to manage it?
I understand that we’re in an age where cosplay is becoming more and more acknowledged by the general public, so I feel it is our community’s responsibility to do our best to make sure that this hobby is not misunderstood. There was an instance when I was nominated for a major network’s TV feature on top “hottest cosplayers”. It may not seem like a big deal but I’m very particular about how I represent myself and my ideals, and about how cosplay is portrayed in mass media. I didn’t agree with the use of the term “hottest” being associated with me, because it might give people the impression that cosplay is something that has to be provocative or sexy. A researcher for the show contacted me to get my consent to be featured on the show. I was aware that they can’t put people in without their permission, so I wrote back expressing my refusal and explained why. One of the executives for the show contacted me back, and we negotiated the script to reflect my principles in a manner that felt right to me. I took the chance to make it a learning moment for both the show crew and their viewers. I hope others will be willing to do the same, given the chance.
Will you tell us something about your style?
I would describe my cosplay aesthetic as cinematic. My usual approach to figuring out my materials, makeup style, and photoshoots is to think of how the series I’m cosplaying would translate as a live action movie. So I’m always thinking of ways to incorporate more colors or textures into my cosplays to make them feel more realistic or visually interesting.
Who is your favorite anime character that you love portraying and why?
Photo via behindinfinity – DeviantArt
It’s always a tough choice but I’ll have to say Naruto Uzumaki. Cosplaying him made me realize I could challenge myself to do characters who are so different from my natural self. I also feel like through the years of following his adventures and how his story progressed, in a way it’s like wet had grown up together.
What are the things you are thankful for as a Cosplayer?
I am thankful that a hobby like this exists which allows me to meet similar people. Some of my best friends, I had met through cosplay and we continue to bond over it.
What is the best thing about being a Cosplayer?
I love that I have this hobby where I can pay tribute to the characters who inspire me, and share that love with a community who understands those feelings.
Do you make your own costumes?
Photo via facebook
I’m always involved in my costumes in some way. Sometimes I purchase pieces to modify. But it does feel the most rewarding when most of the costume is handmade
What is your message to aspiring cosplayers?
With any aspect of cosplay, do what makes you happy, and don’t prioritize trying to impress people. From choosing a character to how you execute a costume, go with what feels right for you. You’ll be more motivated to put a costume together and portray that character if it’s someone you really feel strongly about. And of course, it would make the experience a lot more fun and meaningful.
Photo via apcc
There’s no time to lose! Make your way to the Asia Pop Comic Con 2017! Don’t miss out on this year’s celebrity guests, artists, fun games and products, and especially…the CAGE! Yuneoh will be live right there and we hope to see you having a great time with us!