Starting with Zack Snyder’s “Man of Steel” in 2013, the film universe has since resulted in a multimillion-dollar franchise with legions of fans around the globe.
In Malaysia, too, many love seeing their childhood superheroes on the big screen, with stories being told for a modern-day audience. In truth, many local kids and teens are more likely to know Superman and Batman than they are to remember local historical figures!
Although recent news of a potential total reboot of the franchise has likely left DCEU fans on edge, there is still time to say goodbye. And what better way to bid a probable farewell than by attending the first-ever “World of DC” exhibition in Malaysia?
Hosted at Tropicana Gardens Mall in Petaling Jaya, the expo was launched on Dec 22 by Selangor menteri besar Amirudin Shari, who expressed hope that such events would draw more tourists to the state.
It’s certainly one for enthusiastic shutterbugs, avid Instagrammers, comic-book aficionados and, of course, DC fans. With many statues, props, and concept art from the films on display, there’s never a moment to put away the camera.
There are seven themed zones, each dedicated to specific figures from the franchise. Given that the DCEU kicked off with a certain hero from the planet Krypton, the first gallery is, naturally, dedicated to Superman himself.
While the now-recast Henry Cavill is sadly absent from the exhibition, fans can keep themselves content with the iconic blue-and-red suit with which his character is synonymous.
Keep an eye on the Superman statue that was featured in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” – once the lights glow red, you’ll know something is up!
The next gallery is dedicated to Superman’s ally and erstwhile rival, Batman, featuring an assortment of gadgets and tools wielded by the Dark Knight in the movies.
Of course, showcased prominently in the centre of this zone is the Batmobile, its intimidating armament a perfect replica of that seen in the films.
Have a gander at the suits donned by Ben Affleck, and watch their display cabinets light up when you place your palm on the adjacent interface panel.
Despite Snyder’s best efforts, it’s not all dark and gritty in the DCEU: head over to the Wonder Woman’s section to see for yourself.
Here, the Princess of Themyscira’s golden armours are on show, so take your time to admire the gorgeous detail on them.
The remaining galleries are dedicated to the other heroes and groups from the DCEU, with Aquaman, the Birds of Prey, and the Suicide Squad getting their share of the spotlight.
Throughout most of the exhibition are interactive displays that will capture one’s imagination. Have a go at wielding Wonder Woman’s sword, whip and bracers; set the world ablaze with pyromantic powers; or summon the creatures of the sea with your mere presence.
And before you leave, don’t forget to check out the products and goodies at the gift shop. In addition to the usual shirts and mugs, there are beautiful action figurines selling for thousands of ringgit on display.
This exhibition is a rare opportunity for DCEU fans to celebrate how far their beloved franchise has come. Even though it seems, for all intents and purposes, to be drawing to a close, one can still appreciate the hard work by all who worked tirelessly to make it the success story that it was.
So head on over to Tropicana Gardens Mall to check out your favourite heroes and memorabilia – the expo runs from 10am to 10pm daily, with an Express Ticket allowing you to skip the long queues. Now THAT’s a superpower.
The World of DC Exhibition runs until April 1. Tickets can be bought here or by sending an email to [email protected]. Alternatively, visit the onsite ticketing booths.
World of DC Exhibition @ Tropicana Gardens Mall Convention Centre
Level 3A, Tropicana Gardens Mall,
2A, Persiaran Surian,
Tropicana Indah, Kota Damansara,
Petaling Jaya, Selangor