LUCCA COMICS & GAMES 2025 PRESENTS: FRENCH KISS FESTIVAL ARTWORK REVEALED

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LUCCA COMICS & GAMES 2025 PRESENTS: FRENCH KISS FESTIVAL ARTWORK REVEALED

RÉBECCA DAUTREMER DESIGNS THE POSTER FOR EUROPE’S MOST ANTICIPATED COMMUNITY EVENT: ‘SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF A KISS’
From October 29th to November 2nd, in the temple of pop culture, Lucca, Italy

2025’s Lucca Comics & Games is now underway! From October 29 to November 2, the city of Lucca will morph into a worldwide hub for pop culture, connecting people through imagination, narratives, and mutual interests. This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup featuring the final episode of Netflix’s Stranger Things, Pokemon’s massive pavilion, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach as its last stop on a global tour, and France as the featured country. With these exciting elements, this festival is shaping up to be an unprecedented celebration of comics, video games, animation, film, and music!

CELEBRATING FRENCH CULTURE: FRENCH KISS AND BANDE DESSINÉE

2025 honors France, a nation that has deeply impacted every art genre showcased at Lucca, as the core principles of the French Institute – Liberty, Creativity, Diversity – align seamlessly with the five values of Lucca Comics & Games: Community, Inclusion, Discovery, Respect, Gratitude.

This year’s festival, titled ‘French Kiss’, delves into the idea that a kiss can be a powerful storyteller and emotional trigger. It examines how it impacts tales, connections, and even artistic categories. French artist Rébecca Dautremer visually embodies this theme in the poster for the event, showcasing six whimsical figures – a werewolf, warrior, vampire countess, monster, witch, and a Lucca-inspired manga creature named ‘Lukawa’ – each poised on the brink of a transformative kiss.

At the upcoming exhibition in Palazzo Guinigi, Dautremer’s work will be showcased, including her fresh graphic novel titled Ruby Rose. The premiere for this work is set for France in 2026. Her transition from enchanting fairy tale motifs to grand theatrical settings mirrors the progression of French comic art.

The French Palace at Fondazione Banca del Monte di Lucca will be home to HEXAGONES, a carefully selected exhibition featuring twelve pioneering French comic artists such as Moebius, Claire Bretécher, Jacques Tardi, and Florence Cestac. Notable attendees Edmond Baudoin and Cestac will share insights on the development of bande dessinée and its impact on society.

Eric Fouassier, creator of the Valentin Verne series, is set to discuss his works that combine elements of history and the supernatural, upholding a distinctive French literary trend which intertwines mystery with the uncanny.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that Florence Alibert, the director of Institut français Italy, showcased an array of French guests and activities. One name that truly caught my attention was Julien Papelier, the general manager of Média-Participations – a versatile multimedia group active in publishing, printing, audiovisual production, video games, board games, and, more recently, amusement parks. Notably, this partnership is strengthened by their alliance with the French Embassy in Italy, further emphasizing their connection to Paris.

STREAMING SENSATIONS: NETFLIX HEADLINES WITH STRANGER THINGS

In an even more radiant form, Lucca’s Movie section will be ablaze as Netflix returns to honor the fifth and concluding season of Stranger Things. This go-to destination for film and TV show enthusiasts, managed by QMI, is commemorating its 15th anniversary with a string of extraordinary events that should not be missed.

This year, Netflix is making a comeback at Lucca Comics & Games, where they’ll be commemorating the much-awaited fifth and concluding season of Stranger Things. On Halloween (October 31), the festival will stage an exceptional and not-to-be-missed event that previews the final act of one of the most cherished series ever produced. The fifth season of Stranger Things will be divided into three parts, with the initial four episodes (Volume 1) set to release on Netflix on November 27, followed by episodes 5-7 (Volume 2) on December 26, and finally the concluding episode on January 1, 2026.

Once more making its appearance is Cartoon Network, building on last year’s hit Teen Titans Go! event. For this year, fans can dive into the bizarre yet captivating universe of Gumball in an interactive pavilion that emulates the Wattersons’ zany appeal. Crunchyroll will also be back with a unique anime pavilion offering sneak peeks, screenings, and exclusive merchandise.

POKÉMON TAKES OVER LUCCA: AN UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCE FOR FANS

2025 sees the spectacular comeback of Pokémon at Lucca Comics & Games, occupying a brand-new, expansive space bursting with exciting events! In the specially designed pavilion situated on Piazza Colonna Mozza, enthusiasts can explore a myriad of global wonders from the captivating universe of Pokémon.

VIDEO GAMES TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT: KOJIMA, TOYAMA, AND VAMPIRE SURVIVORS

2025 finds Lucca as the grand finale for the World Strand Tour 2 of Kojima Productions’ Death Stranding, featuring Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Hideo Kojima’s innovative blend of storytelling and cinematic gaming is reshaping the medium, and it’s an honor for Lucca to be the final stop on this worldwide tour.

Alongside him is Keiichiro Toyama, the renowned creator known for Silent Hill and Slitterhead, who will be joining us. Toyama’s contributions have significantly shaped psychological horror, and attendees will have a unique chance to listen to him discuss his creative path and his latest venture, Bokeh Game Studio.

Independent game developer Luca Galante, who created the popular game Vampire Survivors, will also be in attendance. Galante’s transformation of a personal project into a worldwide success mirrors Lucca’s own focus on community. Throughout the extended gaming areas, you can expect demonstrations, discussions, and interactive experiences featuring various games.

THE ART OF COMICS: ICONS FROM EAST TO WEST

2025 sees Lucca opening its arms to the legendary artist Tetsuo Hara, the genius behind Fist of the North Star, as he graces Italy with his first visit. A special exhibition at the Chiesa dei Servi will house over 100 original works, along with exclusive merchandise specially crafted for this momentous occasion. The iconic character of Kenshiro, created by Hara, remains a powerful symbol among fans due to his human qualities amidst intense action sequences.

I’m thrilled to share that Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou, the brilliant minds behind Gachiakuta, are joining us this year! Renowned for their captivating fusion of graffiti and manga, they will unveil fresh content and engage in discussions and signings. This collaboration underscores Lucca’s distinctive role as a meeting point where Japanese and Western pop cultures intersect.

On the Italian comic scene, notable figures such as Zerocalcare, Milo Manara, Leo Ortolani, and Fumettibrutti are back with fresh publications and exhibits. Meanwhile, Zuzu, a joint winner of the 2019 Gran Guinigi award, is set to unveil new collaborative work alongside Coconino Press. Additionally, Guy Delisle, recognized for his autobiographical graphic novels, will be making an appearance with Rizzoli Lizard as well.

FANTASY LITERATURE: KINGS AND QUEENS OF IMAGINATION

2025 in Lucca is set to bring together some of the most esteemed authors in the literary world. Notably, Rick Riordan, known for his Percy Jackson series, will showcase his latest work, “From the World of Percy Jackson: The Court of the Dead.” Additionally, Cassandra Clare and Holly Black, renowned for creating Shadowhunters and The Spiderwick Chronicles, will commemorate a decade of their Magisterium Series. Lastly, Glenn Cooper will introduce his latest masterpiece, “The Cosmos Keys,” an exciting new addition to the epic fantasy genre.

INNOVATION IN GAMING: BOARD GAMES, ROLE-PLAYING, AND TCGs

In our Games section, we’re adding exclusive sneak peeks, competitions, and special versions of games. Asmodee Italia is unveiling a new Dixit card by Marie Cardouat, themed around Lucca. The Gundam Card Game is now available in Europe, offering interactive workshops and demonstration sessions at the Gametrade x Bandai Card Games booth.

10 years ago, MS Edizioni was established, and to celebrate this milestone, they’re releasing new titles themed after popular series like Stranger Things and One Piece. Also making its debut is the satirical party game, Pessime Notizie, known for its witty humor and unpredictable gameplay style.

At long last, the 30th edition of Lucca’s renowned role-playing competition, the Ruolimpiadi, makes its grand return! Prepare for thrilling escapades featuring Wildsea and a Dungeons & Dragons collaboration with Sì, Oscuro Signore.

In this version, we aim to provide an engaging, rephrased translation that maintains clarity and readability.

EXPERIENCES & MUSIC: LEGO, RED BULL, AND LIVE CONCERTS

As a moviegoer, I’m thrilled to share that LEGO Italia is expanding its territory by an additional 300 square meters! This new space, opening soon, will blend engaging play areas and a pop-up store for a unique experience. Meanwhile, Red Bull Unforeseen has breathed life into Ostello San Frediano, turning it into a fantastical Tetris playground! The climax of the Red Bull Tetris national final is set to take place on November 1st – mark your calendars!

Musically speaking, Lucca transforms into an outdoor concert venue. The renowned DJ Étienne de Crécy leads the French Choc party, joined by Venin Carmin and MC Andrea Rock as supporting acts. Additionally, symphonic metal from Vision of Atlantis and music inspired by Nordic mythology from Eihwar complete the lineup.

FAMILY & YOUTH: LUCCA JUNIOR, GERONIMO STILTON, AND LIBROGAME®

1) Lucca Junior is twenty, marking the occasion with a variety of family-oriented events and activities. Meanwhile, Geronimo Stilton commemorates 25 years, as creator Elisabetta Dami makes a personal appearance. Lastly, Edizioni EL reintroduces the Librogame® series, offering fresh sports-themed journeys penned by Luca Tebaldi.

CINEMA AND DOCU-STORIES: LUCCA ON THE BIG SCREEN

There’s a lot of excitement building for the cinema release of “I Love Lucca Comics & Games,” a movie that delves into the community, culture, and values of the annual Lucca Comics & Games event. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on November 10, 11, and 12, with additional screenings available on IWONDERFULL, an Amazon Prime digital platform starting from then. This project is a joint effort between Lucca Crea and I Wonder Pictures, an independent film distribution company. They will be collaborating with production partner All At Once to create these documentary films, and they will also handle the distribution. Directed by Manlio Castagna and produced by Andrea Romeo, this series aims to encapsulate the essence of the festival through the tales of its community members, artists, and creators.

In simple terms, the third installment of the graphic novel series “The Decisive Moment,” which was contracted by Italy’s Civil Protection Department, will also make its debut. This further emphasizes Lucca’s commitment to increasing public understanding and concern through narrative means.

AN EVENT UNLIKE ANY OTHER

The Lucca Comics & Games 2025 event is not just a festival; it embodies essential values such as community, inclusivity, exploration, respect, and appreciation. As France serves as its cultural guidepost and pop culture becomes our shared language, Lucca 2025 reinforces its status as a worldwide hub for those who innovate, dream, and share faith in the influence of narratives.

EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFICE OPENS

1:00 PM today, June 25th marks the commencement of Early Bird sales: you’ll have an entire month, up to July 25th at midnight, to grab tickets and season passes at a discounted rate. The standard ticket booth will resume operations again on September 2nd with the same price as last year.

MEDIA PARTNERS

At this event, RAI serves as the primary Media Partner. Accompanying RAI are QN group and Adnkronos. For the first time, RDS 100% Grandi Successi and RDS NEXT will be Entertainment Partners of the event, working together based on shared values and targeted audiences to create strong synergies. Cultura pop, a digital magazine specializing in the world of geek and pop entertainment, and Multiplayer.it, an Italian site dedicated to video game enthusiasts, are our Streaming Media Partners. Additionally, Animeclick, an Italian portal that has been a go-to source for fans of anime, manga, gaming, and Japanese culture for over 20 years, is also part of the partnership.

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2025-06-25 20:39