Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer by this sunny cosplay. And while it comes to us from the UK but, honestly, I have no idea if its even remotely anywhere near York.

One of the things we here at Critical Blast love is cosplay, which is why every month our staff combs the cosplay community for up-and-coming cosplayers who deserve to have a broader audience for their work, taking into account not only costuming skills and photogenic presence, but also how they use that ability in service to others. Through this, we've not only met some talented cosplayers, but also some fine human beings.

Which brings us to Ellie -- Weird Ellie -- who blows in like a breath of fresh Spring air to become our...

Critical Blast Bombshell, March 2021

Weirdo Ellie

Pennywise (IT)

photo credit: Weirdo Ellie

What is your interest in cosplay?

I wanted to meet lots of new friends (which I definitely have) and I love celebrating our favourite characters together.

How did you get into cosplay, and what was your first cosplay experience?

I followed a few cosplayers on Instagram and finally convinced myself to give it a try. My first cosplay was Killer Frost at my first ever comic con, MCM Birmingham, in 2017. I did cosplay a little after that, but started really focusing on it in 2019 when I started my Instagram.

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

Mainly my confidence has skyrocketed, but I have definitely learnt lots of other skills like wig styling and foam work.

Warrior Anna (original design, based on FROZEN)

photo credit: iPhotoUK

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

I am a project officer for a management qualifications business.

What kind of social or charity activities do you get involved in with your cosplay?

I love comic con and seeing all of my cosplay friends.

Harley Quinn (SUICIDE SQUAD, DC COMICS)

photo credit: FilmAndCosplay

Do you make as much of your own costume as possible or rely on purchased materials -- and is that important overall to cosplaying? 

I do a mixture of buying and making. I like a perfect balance of affordable and accuracy. I don't find it important as I usually have my own goal for each cosplay and it's all about having fun.

What's your favorite cosplay, your "go to" look that you just love to put on and act out?

Harley Quinn! Probably Squad Harley, but she is definitely my comfort character.

Where can people go to find you online?

All my links can be found here: https://linktr.ee/weirdo_ellie_cosplay