Abu Dhabi (Aletihad)
Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC), the region’s largest pop culture festival, has announced that Harry Potter stars James and Oliver Phelps, famous for playing the film series’ loveable Weasley twins, are joining the convention’s star-studded line up.
Best known for their depictions of Fred (James) and George (Oliver) Weasley in the film adaptations of the JK Rowling book series, the twins will make appearances at MEFCC on Saturday, February 10 and Sunday, February 11.
The actors rose to fame after their memorable performance in the Harry Potter film series, roles which they earned after allegedly skipping school to audition for the first film in the franchise.
The twins gained popularity with fans due to their quirkiness and fun-studded scenes, as they brought both Fred and George to life with their pranks, adventures, and even their love for the magical sport, Quidditch.
The Phelps brothers, however, have also gone on to work on a long list of short films. They have also voiced their beloved characters for video games associated with the Harry Potter brand.
Quirky in character and out of it as well, according to reports and raving fans, the twins used to learn each other’s lines and swap characters just to play pranks on the directors and fellow cast members. They would be extending the charm when the event returns to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Star-studded Lineup
Joining the Phelps brothers is an equally exciting slate of stars, including Mexican actor Iñaki Godoy, known for playing the captain in “The Straw Hat Pirates”, Monkey Luffy in Netflix’s action hit series “One Piece”; along with Frank Welker, the voice behind Transformers’ Megatron, and cartoon characters Garfield, and Scooby Doo; Peter Cullen, the voice actor behind Optimus Prime, the protagonist of “Transformers”; Temuera Morrison, the Star Wars icon who has played both Boba Fett and Jango Fett; and Troy Baker, the American voice actor and musician, best known for his role as Joel in “The Last of Us” video game. The line-up will also include comic creators Mark Brooks, Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, and Steve McNiven.
MEFCC 2024
With a 12-year legacy of celebrating film, TV, sci-fi, anime, manga, gaming, comics and collectibles, the convention is to be held in strategic partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi at ADNEC, from February 9-11.
In 2024, the event boasts an abundance of attractions. There will be “Meet the Stars” opportunities for visitors to catch the celebrities from up close.
The Comic Creators Club will allow avid fans to grab commissions. An Artist Alley will feature local and regional emerging and established artists showcasing and selling their latest work. The Gaming Arena will be where enthusiasts can battle it out in various tournaments and daily challenges.
The Main Stage will host celebrity panels, interviews, community sessions, and fan screenings, while the Festival Plaza is where visitors will enjoy live entertainment, music, activities, and plenty of food and beverage options.
In addition, making its debut this year is the Japanese Village, which will bring a taste of Japan to Abu Dhabi with traditional experiences like Yukata tryouts, origami, calligraphy, and live performances.
Tickets start from Dh145 onwards and are available at mefcc.com, the event’s website.