Superhero-costumed protesters join France unrest

Protests in France have featured demonstrators dressed as superheroes like Batman, Deadpool, and Darth Vader, with viral videos showing them confronting security forces during nationwide unrest. The protests, which began over school conditions, have escalated into broader demonstrations against inflation and inequality. The student-led movement started in September over classroom overcrowding and teacher shortages, but expanded in October with incidents of looting and vehicle fires. French authorities have acknowledged failures in handling recent violence and are planning a massive security operation for further protests scheduled on October 24. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced the deployment of troops to restore order after rioting swept Paris, Marseille, and Lyon on October 17. The government's immediate priority is addressing the unrest while protesters continue using costumes to draw attention to their demands.