The Monster Meal from Max’s Monster Burger… the most fun you can have in this life or the next! For franchise information email Jim today!
Here’s something a little different. A dream of mine would be to have a themed fast food joint. To this end I took some characters I created years ago, mixed in some Showbiz Pizza with a splash of Space Ghost Coast to Coast and pack it all into a location similar to the house that Kroc built and I welcome you to “Max’s Monster Burger” where you can test the menu by trying our decedent and delicious “Monster Meal” with a burger, fries, drink, ghost shaped monster nuggets and of course a toy packed up in a cute box for easy eating on the go. This is of course a tie in to the TV show; “Conspiracy Cinema”. Welcome to the show, foolish mortals!
Let your imagination fly and watch what happens! Jim 03/06/2033
Scroll to the bottom to see NEW pics of the subject and his doppelgangers as well as a very nice and appreciated video shout out from the main man!
Custom Secret Squirrel: You know the “Bleh, Bleh” Guy!
Introduction – Greetings gang! In this entry I get the distinct pleasure in introducing you to two separate but equally cool things. The first is my pal Gar Ghoul who is the host of “Horrible Horror” on the web and has been for the past six years. Each week Gar brings you a complete line up of fun and merriment consisting of music, fun and funny banter, lots of “bleh, bleh’s” and of course, a horrible movie. Add to all of that the online broadcasting platform allows you to chat directly with Gar and other members of the audience in real time.
To those who haven’t tried it out yet the best way I can describe the experience is like, being able to talk in the movie theater but no pimply-faced usher is going to try and kick you out for disruptive behavior. Or better yet, its like a movie with subtitles that actually salvage an otherwise crappy movie. Check it out for yourselves Saturday nights at 8PM Eastern / 7PM Central (the rest of you can figure out your own time zones, I’ve got an article to right)..
The second really cool thing that I am introducing to you today is the art of custom figure making known as ‘kit-bashing’. This my friends is an ancient Chinese secret that very few are tuned into. Okay that’s not really true. Kit-bash customizing is actually a fun and relatively easy way to create action figures of characters that have never been produced, using existing parts and pieces in a configuration that captures your heroes in 3 Dimensional form. And the best part is that for this particular 3D art form you don’t need stupid glasses that cost you an extra two bucks and that they expect you to give back at the end of the feature. Sorry about that. But that really does get on my nerves. Back o the fun stuff.
What it is
Now that I have introduced you to our subject I’d like to share with you some of the insider tips I used to create this custom “Gar Ghoul” 8 inch, classic Mego style action figure that may inspire you to have your own arts and crafts fun day.
First, the character that Gar ‘is’ really lends itself easily to the custom Mego treatment. To me Horror Hosts (the name is a proper noun, show some respect) are cool on so many levels. A few of those being that 1.) They’re great entertainers, 2.) There’s not a terrible amount of money in it (if any really) so these guys and gals are doing it for the love and for the artistry and 3.) The characters created are like real life cartoon characters, super heroes, movie monsters come to life etc… It’s those reasons that toys of the characters are a natural fit.
*editors note – for more on Horror Hosts from today and days gone by check out the fantastic archive created by Corpse S. Chris at
Three others that I would like to also recommend (I could go on but for the sake of time I’ll narrow it down to just three)… Ormon Grimsby…Dr. Gangrine and MeTV’s very own Svenghoulie.
Ormon Grimsby
Dr. Gangrene
Back to the custom…
The Gar custom consists of two parts – the packaging and the figure itself. I list the packaging first in this case because honestly my customizing skills ain’t what they used to be so the packaging is crucial to the final products effectiveness.
The packaging
Card Front
Card Back
If the old saying “imitation is the greatest form of flattery” is true than you folks at Bif Bang Pow should be blushing brighter than a red, ripe tomato. For the packaging I used Adobe Photoshop, stills captured from the Horrible Horror show(Thanks Tammy) and the layout is a direct copy of the one used on the later issued Venture Bros action figures. The outer shell was recycled from a EMCE Toys/ Diamond Select Star Trek action figure. *astute readers will notice that the name on the card art says “Secret Squirrel” … to learn about why that is come on over to the Horrible Horror facebook page and find out why.
The figure
The figure is actually really simple. The base used is the Companion character from the Space 1999 series of figures released by Classic TV Toys. The only thing I really had to do was slap a little black and white paint on and “WAH LAH!” instant Gar Ghoul. The nose of the base figure was the real deal maker actually. It looked just similar enough to help add to the overall likeness needs.
I only made three of these (1 for Gar, 1 for him to use as a giveaway and 1 for my own personal collection.) but more are always possible thanks to the ability to kit bash.
Now the bigger question some of you may be asking;
“Why do I care?”
The main one being that the art of kit bashing is a great way to make some really neat gifts for those you love. The creations could also be used for unique marketing promotions or simply just for fun!. And while you can customize and kit bash pretty much any toy line out there, something about the Mego style just seems to mesh better with the final products “fun factor”. So what are you waiting for? Pick a subject, gather your supplies and get to creating! You can even work on it while watching “Horrible Horror with Gar Ghoul”, Saturday nights at 8PM EST / 7 PM CST on Vaughn TV!
Now, Go Play! – Jim 6/30/2012 (Updated 02/05/2014)
“So, it’s Bleh, Bleh,Bleh”? “No,just Bleh, Bleh. The 3rd is over kill.
Dancing with the devil? Only in toy form kids. Only in toy form.
“The Devil made me do it.” Actually this guys look did indeed influence my decision to give the CTVT Mad Monster Series 2 a shot in the first place. This really is a cool looking toy. Then again that statement is coming from an old 80’s metal head who still finds Iron Maiden’s ‘Eddie’ and Motley Crue’s ‘Allister Fiend’ truly beautiful works of art. This guy is by far my favorite CTVT Mad Monster and I can honestly say that I really seeing this dude hanging out on “The Wall”.
Point #1. What it is.
Classic TV Toys Man Monster Series 2: The Demonic Devil
Point #2. Where it came from.
HULK over at Megoville again provided me such a great deal on this one that I still can't thank him enough. Go check out his site http://www.megoville.com and ask for the Hulk brothers. Tell 'em Jim sent ya.
Point #3. The Good.
The heald sculpt is quite impressive. It just screams evil.
This is by far the best head sculpt and paint application that Classic TV Toys has done on any of their releases. Period. The mean expression, the detail lines, the snarl, all of these elements make for one truly demonic looking toy.
The details are aweome on this one.
No devil can be complete without a tail.
I also like the fact that they did go the extra mile in adding a tail to the suit, which appears to be based on the original Mego Green Arrow unitard just color swapped. I also like the shiny cape. Would the Devil wear a shiny cape? I don’t know for sure but I’d bet the Lord of Darkness is indeed so evil that he would gladly wear shiny pleather and dare anyone to say something. And if they did he would stab ’em in the throat with the really cool trident that he’s packing. This guy is evil I tell ya.
The trident: When you absolutely positiviely want to torture human souls in the most painful fashion. Accept no substitutes.
Point #4. The Bad.
How scared can you be of a guy in pointy shoes really?
Again see Chapter 7 for the exact same quality issues that this guy has. The only thing specific to the Devil here would have to be the shoes. I mean red pointy slippers? Sure it works for the devil on that particular brand of potted meat I guess but considering how evil this guy looks you would think the CTVT folks could chosen a more “hardcore” looking footwear selection. Of course it’s all about repurposing in the world of Mego but Robin’s booties looked silly on him and King Arthur no matter what color you cast them.
I guess they ran out of red dye. Probably used it all up on the goofy shoes.
Also the glow in the dark hands (they don’t by the way) take away from this figure’s overall presentation even more so than the shoes. It’s almost like he’s wearing white gloves to test for dust in Hell. Considering it’s Hell I’m sure there’s plenty of dust all over the place.
Point #5. Why I like it.
"We are legion."
Again the look of this figure rocks! Plus there is still a little bit of rebel/non conformist in me that likes the idea of having a toy in my collection that can indeed freak people out. One of these days I am going to build a diorama featuring this guy surrounded by black candles and a serpent style dagger at his feet and place it on my mantle at home. Image the fun it will be when the Jehovah’s Witnesses or Mormon’s pop in and catch a glimpse of this conversation starter. When they gasp in horror I’ll let ’em know that the shrine serves as my reminder of who really is to blame for all of my shortcomings. Oh what fun next Wednesday will be!
Sure I'll take the latest copy of "Watchtower". Set it next to the Devil's feet would ya?
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
I still can't believe the CTVT folks would put out this much effort and not go the extra mile to ensure better quality in their final products.
This is a perfect addition to your Halloween Decor collection. Plus they can be found so cheap that you can have a bunch of ’em all over the house considering most demons and devils like to travel in packs. Plus for the customizers who happen to be Adam Sandler fans have a great starting point for making figures based on the gold toned devils in ‘Little Nicky’. Grab some Krylon and a CTVT Friar Tuck cloak and Wah Lah! Instant bunny munching custom!
Why you shouldn’t:
Again it’s all about the quality of the bodies or lack there of. And of course I wouldn’t recommend this one for kids, especially if they’re the timid type considering how mean this guy really does look.
In Conclusion
CTVT’s were really on the verge of doing something really neat with this line but sadly completely dropped the ball. Still I do dig having this devil around the collection and on “The Wall”.
Well dear reader the past 16 chapters have been a wonderful learning experience for me and I hope entertaining reads for you. The future of the ‘Jim’s Toy Box’ blog is actually looking very bright. Coming soon I will be expanding the scope of this blog to include more interviews and inside looks at the makers and players in the 8 inch action figure market as well as other fun action figure features and funnies. I will also be working on incorporating more video as well for those of you who prefer the click and watch approach. It looks to be a lot of fun. So do me a solid if you will, go back and rate the chapters that made up “The Wall” leave a comment where you feel compelled to and please, please, please, subscribe. So long as I know that you’re out there I will continue to steal away time from the “real world” to bring you entertaining and informative articles that are geared toward you, the action figure collector. So until next time. my sincerest thanks to each of you for reading the 16 chapters of “The Wall”. Now, Go Play! Jim 04-13-11
Get behind me Satan! I do enjoy saying that.
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
This Chapter finds us again examining an action figure from Classic TV Toys. And considering how critical I am of these figures you must wonder, “Jim, why on earth do you have so many of these crappy toys?” Simple answer: They’re cheap. Better answer: They’re also really funny. Take for example the star of this Chapter the Gruesome Ghost. This ugly sucka’ makes me laugh and scratch my head at every turn from his combat boots to his baby blue hair. I say he only because he’s on a male body. So without further “a Boo” let’s examine this ghastly ghost who haunts “The Wall”
Point #1. What it is.
Classic TV Toys Mad Monsters Series 2: Gruesome Ghost
Point #2. Where it came from.
Again I give a shout out to my man HULK over at Megoville for the low price hook up.
Point #3. The Good.
Yes. I have 2. They're cheap and funny, watchagonnado?
This guy is so bad he’s great! Seriously look him over from tip to top. Baby blue hair? Isn’t most ghostly things translated with day glow green? The head sculpt? This is actually kind of sad for me these days. When I first saw one of these back in 2008 the first thing that came to mind was, “Man, this thing could be the ghost of Michael Jackson.” At the time I had no idea the King of Pop was getting closer to parting the earthly plain but still look at him. I can hear Michael belting out one of his trademark “HHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!’s” every time I see this guy.
R.I.P. Mr. Jackson, I’m sure you understand.
Now moving on to the costume ensemble. At first glance your like, “Wow, a death shroud made of yarn. I’m scared.” The real story is actually much sadder. You see, what had happened was, The Gruesome Ghost’s Grandmother really didn’t like him very much but his Grandfather made her make him Christmas presents anyway. Young GG had no idea how his Grandmother really felt until the day she passed away. On that fateful day she pulled him close and informed of how much of a tool she always found him and that the shaggy sweater was actually her own inside joke to show how much she could care less about him. In her eyes he wasn’t worth all the knitting. Then… she died. So distraught was little GG he hung himself with the sweater and now roams the earth for all eternity wearing the hideous (and stupid) reminder that his Grandmother saw him only as a tool. See how much fun your imagination can have when you let it run free after looking at this guy? Priceless.
Boots? Really?
Oh and I almost forgot to mention the white combat boots. Yep you read that right dear reader. This ghost wears white combat boots. Why the CTVT’s folks decided that a ghost needs shoes is something I’ll never understand but will forever laugh at this remarkably stupid accessory.
Point #4. The Bad.
See Chapter 7 and all other chapters that involve the CTVT figures. This guy is no exception.
Point #5. Why I like it.
"Am I blue? Nope, but GG is!"
Like I said this guy is a hoot! He makes me laugh at every turn. Better than a joke book. Better than a truckload of joke books. Plus it’s nice to remember Michael Jackson as a great entertainer. Even though I think MJ would have fired Landis from the Thriller video if any of the ghastly ghouls there looked anything like this guy. Moving on.
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
The boots do come off kids.
Again funny and fun Halloween Decoration lovers like me can have a blast with this guy. Not to play with of course but to just stare at.
Why you shouldn’t:
Again See Chapter 7. Unless you can get him super duper cheap. Even a top shelf body from Dr. Mego or Castaway can’t really add anything to this horrendously bad idea for a toy.
In Conclusion
While I may have come across as a bully in this chapter know that wasn’t my intention. I actually love this figure for what it does for my imagination. I mean seriously, what other toy could possibly inspire a normal sane human being to make up a story about this guys grandmother hating him so bad she made him a crappy sweater that led to his death? That my friends is well worth the $2 I paid. And then some. Now, Go Play! Jim 04-13-11
I miss you Michael.
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
UPDATE: Dark Shadows figures are available again! Click on the pic to get yours!
This guy is so cool, my fingers get frost bite just by touching the bubble
How much do I really love the 8 inch Mego style action figures? So much so that I will even shell out my hard earned cash on a toy that comes from a soap opera! Seriously the Specter Toys released “Chris Jennings” wolfman figure from the cult favorite “Dark Shadows” soap opera is so cool that I had to make this one mine. And once again thanks to the folks at EMCE Toys this wooly wolf is a must have for “The Wall”
Point #1. What it is.
Specter Toys Dark Shadows: “Chris Jennings”
Point #2. Where it came from.
Again I made another great deal at the Mego Museum Marketplace to make this fellow my own.
Point #3. The Good.
The sculpt and paint application has such a classic look you’d swear it came out in the 70’s.
What’s not to love about a werewolf figure? In all actuality this figures look is so campy cool that I had to add it to my collection. Not only is the sculpt fantastic but the costume really puts this one over the top. “But it’s just a plaid shirt with holes in it, Jim?!?” So what? That plaid shirt with strategically placed holes in it really make this toy “pop”!
Now we know how many holes it takes to feel the alcohol.
And as I’ve said in previous chapters of “The Wall” I’ve gotten on a hard core monster toy kick. Also to note while I haven’t taken this guy out of the package I feel pretty safe in assuming its quality and playability is top shelf. How can I be so certain? Because it was made by EMCE Toys! I’m telling you dear readers, the reputation that EMCE has worked very hard at establishing for quality is a major contributor to me purchasing this one. While I didn’t mind shelling out a couple bucks for the CTVT monsters that you’ve found here on “The Wall” there is NO WAY I would pay the $20 plus shipping I gave for this one. Never gonna happen. The price for this figure however I know is very well worth the money.
Plus the thought of a werewolf wearing shoes just makes me laugh.
Point #4. The Bad.
If only you were in a resealable clamshell. {Sigh}
The only thing I can honestly complain about here is the lack of the resealable clamshell. I don’t know if that was a cost thing or what but I honestly would have been even more happy with this toy had I had the chance to take it out and really look it over without damaging the packaging. Mind you I’m not a Dark Shadows fan and the artwork is a bit drab for me, as a collector I don’t like ripping up a package. I probably will once Halloween approaches so I can display this guy with my assortment of 8 inch monsters but for know he will be trapped safely in his sealed bubble.
Point #5. Why I like it.
Hey you over there, keep it down! Chris is trying to catch a nap before Halloween.
To not sound redundant in the praising of EMCE Toys I’ll simply refer you to previous comments found in Chapters 2 and 11 where I’ve already gushed a lot about these makers of New Mego’s. Getting back to this figure itself I have to note that I simply LOVE it’s looks and charm. Plus considering my Monster kick this guy is beyond perfect for satisfying my Halloween décor collecting tastes. More than anything this one is simply fun for me.
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
Whose a good boy? Your a good boy! Bestest little wolf boy ever!
It’s a fun looking toy. Once I open him I’ll show you how much fun he really is but as of this writing we’ve got a long way to go before Halloween. Hopefully that will give both you and I something to look forward to.
Why you shouldn’t:
No reason I can think of. Unless of course you prefer your werewolves to be half naked Native American teenagers, Mattel has that one covered for ya. As for me I’ll leave my animal shape shifters as they should be, clothed in holey plaid shirts.
In Conclusion
In the weeks and months to come I intend to bring you more of the details that went into the making of this particular figure but for now I’ll just say that having a werewolf named “Chris” hanging around adds a really cool element of nostalgia to “The Wall”. Now, Go Play! Jim 4/12/11
Don’t worry Chris. Today’s vampires are sparkly and are far too love lorn to bother you in your bubble.
UPDATE: Dark Shadows figures are available again! Click on the pic to get yours!
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
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
With that said I have to note a lesson learned when it comes to this project; In trying to not be redundant your blog can get stale if you feature the same stuff over and over. But “The Wall” is what it is so we’ll face this same problem again in the next week or so when I get to Chapter’s 13 thru 16. Hopefully by that time I can come up with better jokes to ease the pain and break what could very well be monotonous. I’ll do my best to keep you entertained dear readers but if I don’t, blame the economy. If times weren’t so lean I wouldn’t have so many cheap figures on “The Wall”.
Point #1. What it is.
Scoliosis? Gangsta' Lean? Simply bad posture? Nah, poor construction.
Point #2. Where it came from.
This specimen was also acquired with the CTVT Drac from Chapter 7 courtesy of the Mego Museum Marketplace.
Point #3. The Good.
Again Classic TV Toys did a fair job in reproducing the original Mego line of Mad Monsters even if they are of less than desirable quality. Plus Frankie here is a fun and funny looking fellow. Like the other Mad Monsters he looks straight out of a Scooby Doo Cartoon. That to me makes him worth a few bucks. Another good point about this fellow is that his suit can make for a really cool “Solomon Grundy” custom. I have yet to make one but if I can get around too it I’d use Frankie’s suit (shredded appropriately of course), Mego Hulk turned Albino and some Super Sculpty shoes. See kids, you can turn a lemon into lemonade. Just add sculpy and paint!
Point #4. The Bad.
Again I must point you to Chapter Seven http://jimstoybox.com/2011/04/06/the-wall-chapter-7-classic-tv-toys-dreadful-dracula/ considering Frank has the same problems as Drac. So no need to rant and rave and go all negative this Chapter. Also there is nothing all that special about this guy that really warranted an extensive photo shoot. And since I didn’t have a loose one in my collection I didn’t want to wrestle with the lighting to get the up close shots in the package. It just wasn’t worth it too me.
Point #5.Why I like it.
He’s funny looking. Everything about this guy makes me laugh. As a matter of fact may I share with you an old goofy music video I did featuring Frank’s Blue Haired doppelganger and other CTVT monster’s. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kamNIbvxvCc
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
Scoliosis? Gangsta' Lean? Simply bad posture? Nah, poor construction.
Again this is a great placeholder and is funny looking. He is a fun addition to your monster and 8-inch action figure collection so long as you don’ expect too much out of this troubled soul. So long as you get him cheap.
Why you shouldn’t:
Simply put he suffers the same problems as many other if not all CTVT figures. Again I can’t stress enough that I DO NOT recommend this toy for children. It simply can’ hold up to normal play.
In Conclusion
Fun and funny goes a long way in my book. I don’t regret buying this one but I can’t easily recommend you get one either. Buy it at your own risk.
I'll keep him. In the package and all, but a keeper none the less.
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
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