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Cosplay Melee
By Joyce Slaton,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Reality show scores by focusing on creativity, not conflict.
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Cosplay Melee
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What's the Story?
Dive into the world of creative costume-making with COSPLAY MELEE, a reality competition with four new players each week who compete to make the best costume and win $10,000. Hosted by actress and self-described "super fangirl" Yvette Nicole Brown and featuring the judging talents of costume creator Christian Beckman (The Hunger Games, TRON: Legacy) and noted cosplayer LeeAnna Vamp. On each episode, the competitors first perform a limited challenge that eliminates one person; the three that remain must then create fully-formed, full-body costumes on a particular theme (space operas, Game of Thrones), bringing their characters to life by wearing the costume onstage and explaining their characters' origin and particulars. The one who does it best wins bragging rights, and the $10,000 prize.
Is It Any Good?
If you can't get enough of Face Off, this creative and playful series should be on your watchlist. Like Syfy's other hit character-creation show, Cosplay Melee is firmly focused on its artists and their fantastic creations. Most of the show's running time is eaten up by the costume-creation phase of the competition, with players explaining in fascinating detail how they turn dollar-store art supplies and accessories into incredibly realistic gear. However, unlike on Face Off, where the competitors are often professionals and the judges rather blunt in their criticisms, judges are gentle with competing hobbyists and their creations. "Woooooooow!" Brown frequently utters when seeing a character come to life onstage, assuring players "You did a great job, honey!"
Her fellow judges may point out when a creation is lacking, but they do it with inordinate kindness, pulling their punches, suggesting how something could be made better instead of pointing out all the imperfections. Watching may inspire viewers to make their own costumes -- and it certainly will increase their appreciation for the costumed characters in their favorite movies and shows as well as the people who made what they wear.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why reality shows like Cosplay Melee with competitors who make something -- a meal, an outfit, a costume -- are popular. What's interesting about watching an artist work? Why are these shows competitions instead of just showcases for artists' work?
At least one character, 49-year-old Fred, says he's both a "giant nerd" and older than a typical cosplayer. Are cosplayers typically young people? Why? Do you object to a cosplayer of any age? Is dressing up for fun something people should outgrow?
TV Details
- Premiere date: March 21, 2017
- Cast: Yvette Nicole Brown
- Network: Syfy
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: October 13, 2022
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