The 2021 release of his own MCU film gave Marvel hero Shang-Chi some overdue exposure to mainstream American popular culture – and subsequently, everything from expert cosplays, to stories from some of the comic industry’s most exciting creators, have worked to build on his increased popularity. In different ways, many people have contributed to highlighting why the character deserves the attention, and more.
Cosplayer Justin Otero (@jt_otero) portrayed Shang-Chi in a stylized recreation of Dike Ruan’s cover for Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings, 2022’s relaunch of the hero’s solo title. Though just one example among many of Otero’s exciting cosplay skils, his Shang-Chi builds hold particular meaning to him.
Otero’s costume was built in collaboration with his wife and fellow cosplayer Michelle Waffle-Otero (@meshellwaffelo), and mother-in-law Lisa Waffle (@mother.moon.creations), while his rendition of the cover was captured by cosplay photographer Pat Loika (@patloikaphotoworks), in a brilliant group effort.
Otero’s Shang-Chi stands surrounded by the mystical ten rings from which he derives his power. The cosplay artist’s excitement to be able to realize a memorable piece of Marvel art is clear from his expression in the picture. The final result is a satisfying reproduction of the source material, as photographer and editor Pat Loika has brought his own dynamic creative abilities to the image, helping to make it a next level adaptation of the cover for Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1.
Artist Dike Ruan provided a suitably memorable image as the inspiration for Otero and his collaborators, who managed to capture the essential vibe of the original: Shang-Chi calmly wielding his rings amid a landscape of destruction. In a larger sense, this is representative of Shang-Chi, and his heroic appeal, as a whole – making Dike Ruan’s cover and Justin Otero’s cosplay recreation of it equal testaments to the core virtues of the character. With Shang-Chi set to play a vital role in the future of the MCU, and Marvel Comics, this cosplay sets a strong precedent for those to come.
Justin Otero has previously cosplayed as Shang-Chi, most notably attending the premiere of the MCU’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He has been vocal about the importance of the character to him, and how meaningful it has been both to witness the character adapted to the screen, and to contribute to the character’s place in fandom himself. His homage to Dike Ruan’s cover art takes his Shang-Chi cosplay to the next level – and hopefully, fans and followers can expect more of the character from him in the future.
Source: @jt_otero (Instagram)