Greetings Dear Readers, today has truly been an interesting one for your old buddy Jimbo. And if you happen to be one of the hundreds of folks who have now visited the blog in lieu of the situation that has erupted over the weekend you probably know what I’m talking about. For those of you who have dodged all of the controversy let me quickly get you up to speed…
On Saturday I became aware that Mr. Anthony Jeff of Day2Day Trading found my statements inflammatory and one sided. He is absolutely correct in that assumption. They were and still are. And now it’s Monday and oh what a Monday it has been. Pardon the lack of pics or image kids, this topic doesn’t warrant Mini Me parading around.
Since all of this has broke out I’ve been made privy to some very interesting information from both sides of the coin. This is information that I, who came into this situation as a fanboy first and journalist a very distant 50th place, have dissected, digested and am now passing on.
Now before you get to saying, “Hey man, what the hell is this all about? You leaving us hanging?” Fear not dear reader! That is not the case at all. However my purpose is now better focused and actually gets back to the root of why I wrote my initial blog in the first place; Changing the course of how the toy ship sales.
You see, in my initial post I honestly had no clue as to who Day2Day trading was outside of Castaway’s claims. Again I point out that I’m a fanboy first so I simply expressed my opinion from that general direction. Now however I’ve learned quite a bit more and in the end what I could bring you dear reader would still be nothing more than my opinion. And while the national news circuit and many other bloggers are prone to carry on in such a way, I myself am not of that ilk. The jury is literally still out on this case. And until it is officially concluded in a court of law, I personally feel there is no story.
Sure there are many and I do mean many issues involved here that go far beyond the simple example that has been touched on, to discuss it further would simply add to discussions that would be defamatory, full of conjecture and in the end, result in social media lynching by a highly uninformed public that could leave truly innocent party’s damaged unfairly. As a journalist I will not partake. That my friends is responsible journalism.
Now, one thing that I will stand by without any regrets, remorse and with unflinching diligence is the fact that things do need to be done that will alleviate similar problems in the future. That change was and is my original point; Manufacturing must be returned to American soil. Period.
The fact remains that America is in need of economic recovery. You don’t get that through printing more money that has no backing. You don’t get that through wishful thinking. You DO get that through how we got it in the first place; Work. And QUALITY work at that. Plus lots of it.
Through certain avenues of this investigation I have learned that steps are indeed being taken to see that goal achieved. It is that goal that I will be reporting on as more information becomes available. And fear not Dear Reader the time of that Good News, isn’t as far off as you might think. The Fall of 2011 looks to be a very exciting time for the American Toy Industry. (That’s called a tease by the way. Oh yeah!)
Now as for Mr. Jeff of Day2Day and Mr. Lee of Castaway I offer this to both of you on equal footing for all of the world to see: Best of luck!
I openly admit that your fight is not mine. I also openly apologize to both of you if an unfair bias has been shown in either direction. Do I have an opinion in the matter? Yes, yes I do. Will I tell either of you or the Dear Readers of this blog? Nope. Sure won’t. Why? Because this blog is intended to be a playground for fun and positive vibes. Not a pit for back and forth name-calling and hearsay. Add to all of that these matters are of a legal nature that need to be handled in the courtroom and not on the stage of public opinion.
I will close with this final suggestion to both sides and as very important food for thought for you too Dear Reader: Always read the fine print and never forget a bird in hand is better than two in the bush.
Again, you can look so much better when you hang out with ugly people.
In this chapter of “The Wall” we turn our attention back to a creation from Cast-A-Way Toys. Mr. Hyde here is another character from the “Creepy Classics” wave of very limited edition figures. Like the rest of this assortment only 20 of these guys were made and I was fortunate enough to pick one up. As will be the case when I revisit a company’s particular product, I will do my best to not be redundant and refer you to a previous chapter where certain aspects apply to the current subject matter. In a lot of instances Mr. Hyde here shares a lot of the same ups and downs as CAT’s Zombie. For those points I direct you to Chapter 6-
Now with that little piece of business handled let’s get to the down and dirty on this ugly sucka’ (again, in a good way) who’s hanging out on “The Wall”.
Point #1. What it is.
Cast-A-Way Toys Creepy Classics Mr. Hyde
Point #2. Where it came from.
This fellow was picked up from the same seller in an ebay auction. I’m still surprised at the great price on this figure considering it’s limited run nature.
Point #3. The Good.
Lot’s of good things about this guy. First he is on a Cast-A-Way body which I do like and will recommend. The costume is well made factory pieces. I can’t rave too much about army green scrubs and a lab coat but I do applaud CAT for the quality. Also coming in a resealable clam shell is a really nice perk for me. Being that I’m a collector first and only take them out for an occasional look over or photo shoot this feature is great for keeping this figure in pristine condition for many years to come. The biggest “Good” point about Dr.Jekyll’s alter ego has to be hands down the head sculpt and simplistic paint application. As you can see in the mugshots below Hyde here was very well sculpted.
The lack of symmetrical features really adds to Hyde’s charm.Don’t call him “Bucky”. It makes him feel insecure.Nothing says “evil and insane” like pork chop sideburns.
Point #4. The Bad.
Awesome art but without a title change when placing the figures in the assortment side by side, the look gets rather “blah”.
Like all good things there are some bad. In the case of Hyde my only real gripe is the card art. Believe me it has nothing to do with Tim Baron’s work. Instead it has everything to do with the fact that it is too generic if you will. When I got Hyde and the Zombie in the mail I was all giddy seeing these two figures in the flesh. However it jumped out at me really quick that the card art was exactly the same. There was no distinction between the characters on either the front or the back. Again I’m not dissing the artwork at all, it is fabulous. But for CAT to not even add a name title for each individual character to me takes away from the specialness of this creation. I understand printing costs pretty well considering the nature of what I do for a living so I can understand the cost savings in doing 100 of the same verses 25 of each with only the slight modification. Still to me I would feel more confident in the perceived value if this one extra step had been taken.
Considering all of the low cost printing options these days if it were me I would have added die cut stickers stating the titles. Again I’m a graphic designer so I may have a forest for the trees / easier said than done situation so perhaps I’m being too picky but honestly I feel this lack of detail takes away from the overall figure and packaging which is otherwise great.
Point #5. Why I like it.
“Unibrows are sexy. No really, I’m serious.”
For whatever reason, I have gotten on a goofy, cartoon looking monster kick over the past year. This figure like many others on “The Wall” are there mainly because they make me giggle. This one here is no exception. Go back and look at the mugshots above and try not to laugh at this maniacal monsters expression. If you don’t laugh and I’ll pray that you eventually develop a sense of humor.
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should/ Why you shouldn’t:
The reason’s on both accounts in regards to this guy are exactly the same as with CAT’s Zombie so again I point you to Chapter 6 –
See, like I promised you, no unnecessary, bloated regurgitation of the same old facts here folks. That’s how I roll.
In Conclusion
The Cast-A-Way Toys Creepy Classic’s Mr. Hyde is indeed a fun figure to look at and a quality figure to pose and have do your bidding. If you can pick one of these up, go for it! It’s a neat and unique piece for any collection. Just don’t offer him corn on the cob through a picket fence. That REALLY upsets him.
Now, Go Play!
– Jim 04/08/11
Pardon me while Hyde and I make plans for a night on the town. Fear not dear reader, I’ve got bail money in my sock.
Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com or visit his website at www.jimsmegos.com
All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com
The best thing about hanging with a zombie? YOUR complextion looks great!
For this Chapter of “The Wall” we turn our attention to a person that your mother would tell you not to stare at. That would be rude. In this case however staring is actually a good thing. The “Zombie” from Cast-A-Way toys (CAT) “Creepy Classic” assortment is actually a very cool looking figure despite the deformities. From the cool “Scooby Doo” color scheme to the highly detailed sculpt and dare I forget to mention the REALLY impressive artwork created for the card backs, I was chomping at the bit to pick these up after having seen pictures of them. So far I’ve scored two with two others lurking in the shadows just outside of my grasp. Perhaps one day I will track those two down and add them to “The Wall” but for now let’s look at why this guy helps me pacify the time yet leaves me wanting more.
Point #1. What it is.
The "Zombie" from Cast A Way Toys Creepy Classics assortment.
Point #2. Where it came from.
This specimen came from an ebay action I never believed I would win for only $25. Normally CAT figures sell much higher on the secondary market.
Point #3. The Good.
CAT's zombie maybe considered a "generic" monster but looking closer at his head and you'll see a world of personality.
This figure has a lot of really good things going for it. first and foremost to me is it’s simpleness. At first glance you see a monster that escaped from the “Scooby Doo” universe. The blue hair, light blue skin and jaundice yellow eye balls and teeth give this figure the look of a toy that very well could have been released back in the heyday of Saturday morning cartoon’s. But don’t that subtle glance full you. Upon closer inspection you’ll see that this guy is like an old cowboy… the details of his journey are etched into his face.
While the paint is simple, the sculpt is actually highly detailed.
When you look closely at this undead dude you’ll see that the amount of detail is remarkable. Line after line that simulates rotting flesh can be seen. The miss matched teeth jut out in such away that you know with only one bite he could easily tear through your skin, muscle and parts of bone as he feeds his need for human flesh. His mismatched eyes also add to the beautiful fact that this guy is indeed ugly to his core. No perfect symmetrical features here kids This guy is bad. He wants to eat you. There is no room for discussion. Once you make eye contact with him, the one eyelid-less globe is penetrating your very soul as your gut screams that you are soon to be an entree for this cannibalistic carnivore. Oh yeah, “You. It’s what’s for dinner.”
The CAT body is hands down my favorite "Re-Mego" body that is on the market today. The swivel biceps allow for an incredible amount of playtime and posing possibilities.
The body on this guy is also to die for. Sorry couldn’t help the pun. The CAT body has become my favorite “Re-Mego” 8 inch body on the market today. The swivel biceps along with the easy to change out hands and feet also make for easy customizing. But that’s a whole other story that we’ll save for later. Another aspect that really helps this figure “POP” is that the guys did an excellent job in matching the paint colors of the head to the body. In some other examples out there it’s a little bit of a pet peeve when you see that the tones of the body and head are not consistent. That’s not the case here and I really appreciate this subtle but important detail.
This up close side profile helps show you exactly how much detail is in his guys face. For the custiomizers out there a simple dry bush could make this guy almost grotesque. And that's not a bad thing.
Point #4. The Bad.
Loose ankles leave a little to be desired.
While I just praised the CAT body I do have to pick on one part of it, the ankles. In freeing this guy from his shell and taking the pictures I realized that the wheels on this bus have some issues going round and round. More fittingly I should say staying steady.
Again I don’t like pointing too hard a light on one flaw when the rest of the toy impresses me so much. Still, the loose nature of the ankles does make posing this guy a bit of a trick. Without properly situating the rest of him, the angles seems to give way to the upper bodies weight. I do take into account that this figure is intended more for the adult collector than a kid, the looseness still bothers me somewhat. Not nearly enough to turn me away from a CAT body. There is a very strong possibility that this particular figure is unique in this problem. I own a few other CAT figures and a couple of bodies and their ankles aren’t quite so loose.
Point #5. Why I like it.
"Zombie" under plastic? Anyone? Anyone? It comes with a salad.
This is one figure that was a true “score” for my collection. I had seen pictures of previous “Creepy Classics” that CAT had released and thought they were super cool. But in trying to track them down I also saw that they were fetching above top dollar on ebay and the budget just hasn’t allowed for too many of those “big buys” at the moment. I was pretty excited when CAT announced they were doing this second assortment but alas I missed the boat on that release too.
Originally you could only order these guys as a four figure set for $100 through the CAT website (www.castawaytoys.com) and I couldn’t justify dropping a Benjamin at the time. I do believe they were all very well worth $25 a piece however and if they would have been sold individually I would have acquired one of each over time.
In fairness to CAT though I must point out that only 20 of each character were produced so I can understand why the stipulations were made. Still it would be nice to round out the set.
The art stylings of Tim Baron really make this card something beautiful to behold.
Another big thing for me is the card art. Professional graphic artist Tim Baron was commissioned for this piece and boy, oh boy did he deliver! The style is very retro and similar to what you would have seen back in the 60’s and 70’s when it came to monster magazines and comics. I genuinely love the look and feel of old school Halloween stuff so Tim’s artwork touches me on that level deeply.
Here we see the full cast of characters from this assortmet of "Creepy Classics" as interpreted by Tim Baron.
Don’t let these ghouls full you. Tim has some mighty impressive chops. If you visit his sight/ online portfolio you’ll see that his abilities can go from ghouls such as this to incredible renderings of real people. Check out his Snoop Dog and you’ll see what I mean. Okay so Snoop isn’t exactly “real” but you get my point.
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
This "cool ghoul" makes me smile even though he looks at me like I'm nothing more than a piece of meat.
If you can find ’em they are wonderful monster toys for your collection. The trick though is indeed finding them. Being a small company their runs are small and seem to be spaced out pretty wide. Still as an 8 inch action figure collector and Halloween decoration junkie I can’t recommend these enough. Plus being such a limited release it’s always fun as a collector to have such unique pieces that you can’t just run out and buy. Even though I do hope CAT as a company and the 8 inch action figure style becomes popular enough that you can actually find these in the big chain stores. Tell your friends, family and even your enemies! Spread the word and grow the market!
Why you shouldn’t:
To know him is to love him.
To the purest these figures may let you down. The only reason I say that is because the heads are made from resin and are not the hollow rubber, rotocasted type that was used by Mego and most of the other “Re-Mego” producers today. CAT does have these type of heads on some of their other figures such as the Phantom and Jessee James but the “Creepy Classics” simply haven’t reached that level of popularity to warrant the cost that comes in making heads of that nature. Other than that though, I can’ give you any reason not to add these to your collection.Well, perhaps if your the really impatient type who can’t handle the hunt. But if that’s the case you should collect something else like, state logo quarters. Oh what fun.
In Conclusion
The Cast -A-Way Toys “Creepy Classic” Zombie is a very fun and fun looking toy. The company may be small but the heart that they put into their releases pounds loudly and can be seen in every release they offer the world. If you can track any of these down I say go for it! snatch it up and enojy. Or better yet send it to your old buddy Jimbo so i can add it to “The Wall.” Now, Go Play!
Jim 04-05-11
"Big head mean big BRAINS!!!!" "Dude, I'm in broadcasting" "Oh, yeah. Well... then I guess it's pizza again.{sigh}"
Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com or visit his website at www.jimsmegos.com
All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com
"I loved you in Glen or Glenda. 'Pull the string! Pull the string!' Classic! Karloff could only dream to sell a scene like that.""
This Chapter of “The Wall” features the most pictures to date of any of my entries. And with very good reason. This figure is so detail loaded you can’t help but rave about every detail from the boat load of accessories (or should I say ‘coffin load’ all the way down to Dracula’s socks. This figure is incredible and was certainly way ahead of it’s time. While both Flatt World Toys and Bela Lugosi are both long gone this figure is a stunning legacy to behold. There would be even more pics if it weren’t for the fact that my camera’s Macro setting is a bit weak.
And the best thing in regards to this figure is that you can actually get one RIGHT NOW for the insanely low price of $17.50 plus shipping from my pals over at Cast-A-Way Toys. Check out my take and then quickly get over to their site and get your Bela NOW. I don’t now how many they have but I promise you they won’t last long. And once you see this chapter of “The Wall” you’ll see why. You know what? Go ahead and order it now and then come back and enjoy this chapter. It’ll help kill the time while you wait for yours to arrive. http://store.castawaytoys.com/bela-lugosi-dracula-flattworld.html
Mind you I’ve not getting any kickbacks on this but do me a solid and tell ’em you heard about this super deal here at “The Wall”.
Point #1. What it is.
Flatt World 8 inch Bela Lugosi as Dracula. Truly a highlight of the late 90's action figure explosion.
The level of detail that went into this figure is stagerring.
Simply put, this figure ROCKS! It’s hard to find anyone in the collecting community who will blatantly bad mouth this toy. There really is no reason. The costume is incredible. The details that Charlie Flatt put into this simply amazing. Mind you the price tag of $60 dollars during it’s initial release was a bit lofty but the quality makes up for the price tag. Surprisingly however, these days you can get one for a third of that original MSRP. I honestly don’t know why that is. While I don’t know the exact number of figures produced I can assume that considering the original price tag, that there were that many. But then again if we use the original price as our barometer it is possible that they simply didn’t sell back in the pre-dot com bust of the 90’s.
Pardon the fuzziness of this pic but honestly I'm not too upset with my camera. Normally you can't get a vampire to show up on film at all.
Another thing that is really cool about this figure from tip to top is the accessories. Sure it’s got a bat and a candelabra but this in scale coffin is too sweet. The figure fits perfectly and there is room for the bat and candelabra for the sake of storage. For me though I put the whole thing back together in it’s original unique trapezoid packaging. Otherwise it wouldn’t be on “The Wall”.
The ability to pose a shot like this is a real deal maker for me.
Again the detail is so wonderful on this figure including the monogrammed ring on Drac's finger. Here he comes kids! It's Dracula! Okay so that wasn't scary at all but then again he is only 8 inches tall.
Point #4. The Bad.
The incredible detail in the costume sadly can't cover up the fact that the likeness to Bela Lugosi is a bit weak.
Believe it or not I’m not going to be all wishy-washy on the bad points on this one. Simply put, the sculpt is a bit lacking. The funny thing here though is that by most standards its really not all that bad either. The trick I think with the scrutiny of the sculpt comes from the fact that everything else is so highly detailed that it makes this shortcoming stand out more. Still I have yet to see a better 8 inch mas produced version of Bela Lugosi. So in the end I still have to give it Charlie Flatt for an impressive figure.
The only other negative that came to light for me was the coffin.
Putting this box together gave me the creeps. Not because of the death symbolism but instead the fear of breakage.
As I’ve stated in previous chapters my biggest pet peeve is a toy that breaks with very minimal effort exerted on it. That’s how I felt about the coffin. As I was assembling it for this photo shoot I was very concerned about breaking the top hinge. Mind you it didn’t but it still seemed like it was going to snap at any moment if I didn’t press and push at just the right angle. That struck me as odd considering the lower hinge gave me no similar grief whatsoever. Also when I pulled it back apart it held up fine. I was extremely careful though and I’m not sure that less patient types would have the same wonderful results.
Another thing about the coffin that was a minor drag was the “D” crest that comes with it. This little icing on the cake is neat but the adhesive patch that came with it was oddly enough only one sided. Considering that Charlie Flatt was a customizer first and a toy company second I can see why he would leave the option for this cool looking coffin to remain generic but still something just seemed cheap when it cam to the decision to use an adhesive for the crest.
Point #5. Why I like it.
Outside of those very mild negatives I can’t rave about this toy enough. I dare say that it is the highest quality 8 inch figure I have ever owned. And even though the likeness is a bit weak as I stated, you still know that this figure is indeed supposed to be the one and only Bela Lugosi in his most famous role.
"Bela set the standard for Vampire charisma. Charlee Flatt re-set the standard for 8 inch action figures.""Another awesome aspect of the figure is the "Everything you ever needed to know about Bela Lugosi" brochure. The brochure (and outer box) features licensed photos from the Lugosi estate that make this for me much more than a toy. Looking at the photo used on the inside of the banner it leads me to think that this was the refrence photo used for the figure. Bela and his son Bela Jr. who agreed to an licensed Lugosi's image to Flatt. For me I like seeing this human side of the world's most recognizable vampire. The costume is so highly detailed that Bela is even wearing socks! How cool is it to know that your vampire will not have to worry about having cold toes? And like Bela, Dawn O'Connell made mini Jim super cool by making socks for me too. I'm telling you guys and gals, order your little buddy today for yourself or as a gift!
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
Please see all of the above pics, duh. Plus with the price that Cast-A-Way is currently selling these for, you really can’t go wrong. They would also make a perfect gift for the toy, horror, Hollywood or monster fan. Simply Excellent!
Considering the sale price at Cast A Way toys right now I can’t think of any reason what so ever to not pick this toy up. You really owe this one to yourself or your action figure or doll collecting friends collection. Even if they aren’t into the 8inch mego style figures (dork) they will truly appreciate this toy.
No need for a Vampire's hypnotizing glare to convince you to get this one. The reasons why are from head to toe, front and back and all the way around the box! Go look at all the pics again.
In Conclusion
Highly articulated. Insane costume detail. Perfect accessories. A fairly decent sculpt. A plethora of knowledge inside and out. I’m telling you this is a great action figure, toy, work of art, history lesson. Seriously go here… http://store.castawaytoys.com/bela-lugosi-dracula-flattworld.html and get your today before they’re all gone at this incredibly low price! Seriously, do it so you can truly GO PLAY!
Jim 4-04-11
Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com or visit his website at www.jimsmegos.com
All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com
For this look at “The Wall” I want to first and foremost say that I am not gloating that this mighty fine collectible is all mine.
I’m not gloating but I am pleased as punch to have this fellow hanging out in my collection.
Oh wait. Who am I kidding? I love the fact that I have one and you don’t! Nah, just kidding but with this figure being such a limited release I can’t help but to be excited as a collector. Plus this toy really was one of the top five on my letter to Santa in ’81.And now thanks to the efforts of some very serious Mego lovers, I (and you) can own this awesome figure that sadly never made it to stores (or Santa’s magic bag o’ toys). But then again one of the thrills of collecting is tracking down the illusive, hard to get, limited edition, “grails”.
Before we go too deep I want to note something very important to the details (or lack thereof) that you may find in this review. “The Wall” project was meant to be a blog learning tool for me and my intended entries were going to be a brief look at the 16 figures that are on my wall at home. I point this out on this particular review because I do not want anyone who made this figure happen to feel slighted in the least. As described on the back of the card, the list of people involved in this project is quite massive and I don’t feel at this moment in time I can complete my own little goal here and serve the history aspect of this figure properly. With all of that said I must again tip my hat to all of you who are credited on the cardback as well as those who are simply noted as the “entire Mego Community”. You guys and gals did good! Now on to this chapter of “The Wall”.
Point#1. What it is.
Safe and sound inside of a Castaway Toys Superclam, this “Ralph” figure is a highly sought after collectible.
Point#2. Where it came from.
The compelte story of Mego’s plans as well as prototype pics are included on the back of the card. And was written by Mego Museum mastermind Brian “Brain” Heiler.
Point#3. The Good.
The likeness to actor William Katt is outstanding!Stepping straight out of ABC’s 1981 Primetime line up.
The first thing fans will notice is that the head sculpt on this toy is outstanding. When comparing this special edition figure to the pictures of Mego’s prototypes that can be found at the Mego Museum, this is by far a much better product. While some may speculate that Mego’s final result could have captured a better likeness I myself have doubts. Those doubts stem from the fact that at the time that this would have been produced, Mego was in a world of hurt and other lines seemed to have a lot of details cut out of the final product. The main examples being the sculpts on Bo and Daisy Duke as well as Jon from the CHiP’s line.
The costume that was created for this figure is also something to behold. For some strange reason I’m not too sure of, the cape impresses me the most. The way it was made of a light loose fabric, trimmed with a screen accurate red stripe and scaled to fit perfectly just seems to pull the figure together very nicely. Another aspect I find very clever is that using only simple string the costume designers really helped this outfit not only look dead on screen accurate but also much more complex than it’s actual design. Take a look at the walk around photo’s and I think you’ll see what I mean.
The lighter fabric used for the cape makes for a great “flowing” appearance.
Another aspect of the figure that really sings for me is the backdrop art work that was created. Collectors who may be too gun shy to actually open the figure (it’s a resealable Super Clam folks) they may have missed out on this incredible, dare I say, accessory.
Tucked away in the region of a card that normally doesn’t exist. In between.Thanks to alll the talent Mego lovers who made this figure happen, you too can recreate the magic moment when a guy named “Ralph” became our greatest champion. My apologies to Donny Most.
Point#4. The Bad.
This part of the review is always the toughest considering I’m #1. Not a negative type by nature and #2. If it’s in my
Being limited to 500 pieces is the closest thing I can come up with for a negative. Mine is #21. And no, I’m not selling it.
personal collection I can’t see why I’d be all that quick to point out the flaws in the things I love so much. In the case of this figure the only thing that I can honestly say could even remotely be considered a negative is kind of an oxymoron, because it’s also it’s greatest asset as a collectible… It’s limited availability. So I don’t think you can really call this a negative but being a tenderhearted fellow I do feel for those that have been unsuccessful in claiming one for their collection without paying in some cases, crazy high prices. Recently one has been spotted on ebay with a $600 price tag. Good luck to that seller as the average aftermarket value ranges from $125 to $175.
As I’ve already mentioned, as a kid I always wanted a Greatest American Hero to join in the adventures of Superman, Batman & Robin and Bo & Luke Duke. As an adult collector who is now obsessed with the Mego legacy and the rebirth of the Mego style action figure returning to the market, the very creation of this toy is a glowing example of what exactly can be done if dedicated people with a dream stay focused and bring their dreams into the realm of reality. So in essence this toy for me signifies “hope” in the fact that through diligence dreams do come true.
And not only can “Little Buddies Jim” hang out with Ralph, I’m getting closer to being age appropriate to play “Bill Maxwell” if they ever do decide to do a movie. Ahhhh, dreams are fun!
Point#6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should…
A fun work of “heart” and art.
If your a fan of the show, the character (there have also been comic books written by William Katt btw) or Mego / 8inch toys in general this is a must have collectible. Plus the quality of the figure and packaging is something to behold as a true work of art.And from a collector’s stand point there is nothing more thrilling or rush inducing than setting your sights on a “grail” and going after it relentlessly. I would recommend getting involved with the Mego Museum community. There you will find the greatest group of fun loving collectors who in my experience, are always quick to lend advice, a lead or even the item of your dream collection. http://www.megomuseum.com
Why you shouldn’t…
The only reason I can even remotely steer you away from this toy is perhaps the price tag. Being a limited edition with
“Spot me a couple Benjamins so I can take you home?”
a run of only 500 you can easily see why the laws of supply and demand are in full effect with the bottom line on this one. So I guess the only reason I can say you shouldn’t try to acquire this figure is that if your bank account is in the red you might want to save up first before plunking down the cash.
This toy is awesome. This collectible is a must have. The effort that went in to making it is highly admirable. A great toy overall. Oh and I didn’t mention the even more limited run of “Ralph” in his alter ego suit. But then again that one hasn’t made it to “The Wall”… yet. Now, GO PLAY! – Jim 03/30/11
“Pardon me while Ralph and I go save the world from communist scum. Peace Out Hommies!”
Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com
All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com
These 16 action figures are so chock full of fun it’s amazing that they can fit in one small area!
And so it begins!
Welcome to Day 1 of “The Wall” blog where I will be giving you a rundown and review of the “Re-Mego’s” that adorn my wall at home and have earned a special place in my heart. As this is the very first day of this little goal of mine I’d like to stop and pause a moment to give a huge shout out to all my pals at the Mego Museum. This collection of fellow lovers of all things Mego has welcomed me in with open arms and has become like a second “cyber-family”. Plus without this wonderful community and it’s members I never would have scored most of these wonderful additions to my collection. It was also their encouragement that has boosted up my drive to do this blog and hone my skills as a marketer and reviewer. So to all of my “Mego Buddies” I say thank you! Now let’s get to “The Wall”
With a cast like this who needs TV? Oh wait.
This morning started out with a round of Photoshopping that finds me getting even more excited about this endeavor. Seeing that in the end of everyday I get to work on this blog I’ll be taking a little time away from the “real world” I’ll actually be doing numerous things that I love. From writing to designing the layout of this blog I can see why so many people have flocked to this form of communication. It truly is a blast to write about the things that mean so much to you. Thank you Word Press!
Now without further ado may I introduce you to this blogs starting line up and the order in which they will be tackled.
#1. Mattel’s Retro Action DC Super Heroes : Superman.
The Man of Steel returns to 8 inch plastic form.
#2. 1950’s Version Commander X
While the Commander may look a little familiar to Mego collectors he is a hero in his own right.
#3. The Greatest American Hero
Oh, what could have been. However what is, is actually better!
#4. Mattel’s Retro Action DC Super Heroes : Batman
#5. Flatt World’s Bela Lugosi as Dracula
#6. Castaway Toys Creepy Classics : Zombie
#7. Classic TV Toys : Mego Mad Monsters Dracula Reissue
#8. Classic TV Toys : Mego Mad Monsters Frankenstein Reissue
He was only looking for a friend. Ignorance and intolerence is so so wrong.
#9. Castaway Toys Creepy Classics : Mr. Hyde
#10. Jim’s Mego’s Retro Action DC Super Heroes : Robin (sort of)
#11. EMCE Toys, Mego Star Trek Reissue: Captain Kirk
#12. EMCE Toys/ Specter Toys; Dark Shadows: Chris Jennings
#13. Classic TV Toys; Mad Monsters Series 2: The Salem Witch
#14. Classic TV Toys; Mad Monsters Series 2: The Gruesome Ghost
#15. Classic TV Toys : Mego Mad Monsters Mummy Reissue
#15. Classic TV Toys; Mad Monsters Series 2: The Demonic Devil
Okay fellow’s and girls there is the starting line up! I am looking so very forward to sharing with you my take on these wonderful figures. In a perfect world these reviews would come one day after another but sadly I do not get paid to do this (yet) and I do have a full time gig, loving wife, and a beautiful Toddler so it may take 16 weeks instead of 16 days to complete. But you know what? It’ll be worth it!
So until next time when Retro Action Superman say’s;
The hope of this blog is to help me focus in on a goal of mine to become a professional toy reviewer and marketer. This first run will consist of “The Wall”. Let me explain;
Like all things in life organization and focus are crucial to anything being successful. So in my goal I’ve decided to hone in on one aspect of my personal collection to write about, “The Wall”. And no this has nothing to do with Pink Floyd. The wall that I speak of is the current collection of “Re-Mego’s” that I have acquired in the past year or so that I would like to share a little about. Each one has found a special place in my heart, not only for the sake of nostalgia but also for the sake of everyday escapism, de-stressing and most importantly staying in touch with my inner child that I truly believe helps keep all of us closer to God. With that said this isn’t a religious thing, it’s simply a living thing. Moving on.
For this review of “The Wall” each subject will be explained in the following manner:
1. What it is.
2. Where it came from.
3. The Good.
4. The Bad.
5. Why I like it.
6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
In the end I hope to create an entertaining and insightful read that can help you become an educated buyer or collector. Also note I plan on plenty of photo’s, video and other such accessories to spice up each review. So with all of that said I wrap up this initial “goal statement” and conclude for the day. Come back tomorrow for a rundown of our starting line up. So until then,
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