Make no mistake, this was likely the best con Anime Express ever hosted. Unlike last year they had great video selections playing in three rooms including the premiere of the Read or Die dub in that huge stadium seating auditorium.

However there seemed to be a serious problem with the cosplay contest. There were at least twice as many cosplayers as there were contestants. Folks who had always competed in the past were now sitting on the sidelines.

Could the reason have been the 2 PM deadline for sign-up? I don't think it had ever been that early before. I know that at least one potential contestant spent  weeks on her costume just to be told she was too late to sign up.

At least they encouraged the sidelined folks to step up after the contest and show off their costumes, but it was certainly a poor substitute for the real thing.

To any Megatokyo fan, this was an outstanding costume and prop. Here we have Ed (surely it was Ed?) ready to take out all opponents with his Sony Killstick.

As we wait for the judges decision, the cosplayers gathered for a group photo.

In some highlights from the group shots, here are two kawaii face-makers having fun with the photographers.

Yomiko Readman gets ready to let fly with a paper attack.

Anthy and Utena, still very much in love.

Ouch! That has got to hurt.

Chii and Kotoko from Chobits.

Bag-headed Ed keeps a watchful eye over the crowd.