Welcome to DKN’s first Cosplay Profile. I’ve wanted to do features like this for some time now and am pleased that I can finally present the first of hopefully many to our wonderful readers. That’s right – if this catches on, we will hopefully bring you several more of these this year.
What makes a great cosplayer in my view? There’s the obvious knack for craftsmanship when it comes to creating a stunning costume, but what makes someone rise above the rest of the pack – at least in my opinion – is the resemblance to the character they portray compounded with knowledge and passion for said character. It also helps if you share personality traits with the one who inspired you. You have no doubt seen countless cosplayers portray your favorite heroes and villains; there’s that special something that makes certain ones stand out.
Enter Brea Biaa.
I became aware of her not too long ago and she instantly became my favorite Catwoman cosplayer (let it be known Catwoman happens to be my favorite female character). Not only has she done a great job making her costume and exhibiting the qualities listed above (she really does love cats), she looks as though the Arkham City version of Catwoman emerged from a TV screen. Seriously. The resemblance is uncanny (see below).
Brea was thankfully kind enough to answer a few questions and give us some insight into her time as a cosplayer. So, without further ado…
What made you want to get involved in cosplay?
Brea Biaa: A few years ago, I had no clue what Comic Con was or what cosplaying was, until my friend brought me to NYCC [New York Comic Con] 2012. She cosplays as well and told me it would be fun to dress up as a character, so I bought a costume online and went as Jade from Mortal Kombat. Let’s just say I literally felt like I was in a whole other world. Combining my love of dressing up in costumes (thanks Halloween) and geeky culture, Comic Con was like my heaven. I fell in love with the cosplay scene and instantly knew it was something I was going to be a part of. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to be all my favorite characters and with cosplay, I can!
What is it that draws you to Catwoman, especially the Arkham City interpretation?
BB: I love Catwoman for the same reasons everyone loves her. She’s sexy, confident, independent, smart, clever, and sassy. She balances on the line between good and evil and makes her own storyline. She doesn’t rely on anyone and she makes her own decisions based on what SHE wants and what makes her thieving little heart happy. She also has feline empathy and has a deep connection with all cats (which I totally relate to). She’s a very strong female character, not only because she has intense hand-to-hand combat skills, but because of her strong will and leader-like attitude also. The Arkham City version is my favorite because I love that you actually get to put yourself in her shoes and experience what it’s like to BE Catwoman on her missions and battles in the game. Her Arkham City design is also my favorite; from her cowl, smokey eye makeup, piercing green eyes, curvy hot body, weapons/fighting abilities, what else could you ask for? She’s perfect. Not only was Arkham City one of the best video games of all time, but [having] Catwoman in it was just the cherry on top.
Are there any characters on your cosplay wishlist?
BB: SO many! I’m always adding more characters to my wish list, but some of the top ones would be Vampirella, all my favorite ladies of Mortal Kombat including Jade, Mileena, Kitana, and Sindel, Selene from Underworld, X-23 from X-Men, Sailor Mars from Sailor Moon, Princess Jasmine from Aladdin, the Baroness from G.I. Joe, and definitely more DC girls like Poison Ivy, Wonder Woman, The Huntress, and more versions of Catwoman!
If you had the opportunity to play Catwoman in a fan film would you take it?
BB: Oh yes! I don’t think I’m very good at acting, but if it’s a chance for me to play as Catwoman, I would definitely take it!
What is your favorite Batman story?
BB: I’d have to say the story of Mr. Freeze and Nora. The love story between them and the dedication and loyalty Victor has for her to [attempt] bringing her back to life. It makes me cry. Haha.
To keep up with Brea’s work, including an in progress Jim Balent Catwoman costume, be sure to follow her on Facebook.
(Photo credit for featured image at top of article: Zelda Lily Cosplay & Photography)