Star Wars Cyber Monday Savings Give Your Wallet Force!
May the Savings be with you on this Cyber Monday where, finally, there are some great bargains to be had on Black Series and Vintage Collection Hasbro Toys, LEGO, and more!
Black Series/The Vintage Collection Hasbro Toys
The best bargain at Amazon today is the Black Series Force FX Z6 Riot Control Baton. This $200 prop replica is 1/3 off today–just $134.39!
Also in the Black Series Roleplay, the Stormtrooper Helmet is 38% off, down to $49.99 from $80 today only!
The Vintage Collection Imperial Combat Assault Tank from Rogue One is now 40% off at Amazon — just $47.99, down from $79.99. I jumped and got one at that price.
The Black Series Dewback with Sandtrooper is also over 25% off, marked down to $42.97 (not the cheapest it’s been, but a good price on a great toy)
Also in the Black Series, the Kylo Ren Centerpiece set is almost half off, just $28.96 (which is the right price for a non-articulated figure and diorama base)
It’s also a good time to army build your Jawas! The Black Series Jawa figure is down to $12.41.
Also the troop builder Black Series Range Trooper from SOLO is 41% off, just $11.77
And it seems stores can’t give away the Vintage Collection Snoke figure. You can get one now from Amazon for just $6.96 (down from $13), but it’s an Add-on item only.
Other Hasbro Toys
The Ultimate Co-Pilot Chewie is a great gift for kids (or those who are still kids at heart). This $130 toy is almost half off today only, $69.92!
In the 5POA line, the ForceLink 2.0 Resistance A-Wing with Pilot Tallie is 42% off, just $17.31. Likewise the ForceLink 2.0 Millennium Falcon with Escape Craft is 20% off, down to $23.99
And can you ever have enough Rathtars? The 3.75-inch Rathtar with Bala-Tik is 70% off–just $6.07
From Solo in the 5POA line, the Han Solo Landspeeder with figure is 15% off, $25.49 shipped.
In the kids focused Galactic Heroes line, the Galactic Rivals 10-Figure pack, with Grievous, Yoda, Luke, Vader, Sidious, Obi-Wan, and more, is 43% off, $17.14.
In that same line, Amazon’s exclusive Galacitc Heroes Millennium Falcon with Han and Chewie is $25, down from $40.
Amazon also still has the Sphero R2-D2 for just $39.99. Given that it’s sat at that price for about a week I could see a cheaper lightning deal, but that’s still a great price.
LEGO
Amazon has many Star Wars LEGO sets on deep discount today.
It’s the perfect time to get the 2018 LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar. it’s 18% off, and you’ll get it in time to start opening on the countdown to Christmas!
The LEGO Imperial Patrol Battle Pack is also 27% off — just $10.99.
The Imperial TIE Fighter set is 20% off, $55.99.
LEGO Brickheadz Boba Fett is 20% off, down to $7.99
The Jedi & Clone Trooper Battle Pack is also 20% off, just $11.99
Also LEGO, Entertainment Earth has the Jakku Quadjumper for 35% off, just $32.49
The LEGO Porg Building Kit is 20% off, down to $55.99
From SOLO, Moloch’s Landspeeder set is 20% off, down to $31.99
Getting to the OT, from Empire Strikes Back comes Yoda’s Hut, marked down 20% to $23.99
GAMING
For gamers, Amazon has several discounts as well:
Star Wars CLUE is almost half off, marked down to $24.95
The Black Series Star Wars Trivial Pursuit is also almost half off, just $20.50
The Star Wars: Rebellion game is over 20% off, just $78.99
The Star Wars: Legion core set is $54.69, down from its usual $90.
The Star Wars: Legion Snow Troopers Expansion is 24% off: $18.99
Star Wars: Edge of Empire – Beyond the Rim is 11% off, down to $21.01
And many more Gaming Bargains can be found on Amazon’s site!
Got a deal we didn’t list here? E-mail us at show@swactionnews.com and let us know about it!
Finally, if you’re a Star Wars Action News listener, you may want to know about the Cyber Monday deal our sister podcast Now Playing Podcast is having right now — for just the next 18 hours!
New Podcast — Star Wars Action News Episode 500!
Hosted by Arnie Carvalho, Marjorie Carvalho, Daryl Whitlow, Andrew Harrison, Brock, and more!
This weekend is Toy Fair International 2018! Tons of new Star Wars collectibles will be revealed (including, likely, the first look at SOLO toys)! Star Wars Action News will be there to cover all the releases.
New Podcast: Now Playing — Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
Hosted by Arnie Carvalho, Stuart Atkinson, and Jakob Conkling
Episode VIII finds General Leia (Carrie Fisher), Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), Finn (John Boyega), and a dwindling number of Resistance fighters beating a hasty retreat from the rising armies of Supreme Leader Snoke (Andy Serkis). Their only hope lies with recently located Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) – The Last Jedi in the universe. But can Master Luke trust feisty apprentice Rey (Daisy Ridley) to learn the ways of The Force without succumbing to the Dark Side like his previous pupil, the murderous tyrant Kylo Ren (Adam Driver)? Join Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart for a deep dive into the biggest movie of 2017.
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News — Episode 498: Black Friday & Holiday Gift Guide 2017
Hosted by Marjorie Carvalho and Arnie Carvalho
Video by Berent Lawton and Daryl Whitlow
It’s time for Star Wars Action News’13th annual Black Friday sale report, and holiday gift guide!
BLACK FRIDAY SALES
- Entertainment Earth
- Black Friday: Starting Wednesday November 22 and continuing to Friday 24th: Star Wars The Black Series Clone Troopers of Order 66 6-Inch Action Figures – Entertainment Earth Exclusive are reduced from $99.99 to $39.99!
- Cyber Monday: Starting Monday Nov. 27 and continuing to Tues. Nov 28th: Star Wars The Black Series Astromech Droids 3 3/4-Inch Action Figures – Entertainment Earth Exclusive reduced from $79.99 to $29.99!
- Sideshow Collectibles Sideshow has some serious savings starting NOW! Black Friday comes early!
- $250 off C-3PO Legendary Scale Figure
- Over $125 off Hot Toys FO Stormtrooper Set
- $50 off Hot Toys Phasma
- Tons more! Check it out!
- Toys
- Walmart AND Jet.com: Hasbro BB-8 RC toy $30
- Target: LEGO Battle on Takodana Set – $34.99 (30% off)
- Bon-Ton: Mattel Star Wars Toys (Hot Wheels) 50% off – DOORBUSTER
- JC Penny: 30% off all Star Wars toys $10 to $30 (so they’re $7 to $21)
- Toys R Us: 3.75-in figures from Ep 7 and Rogue One 40% off — $4.97 ea
- Toys R Us: Rogue One Rapid Fire AT-ACT – $99.98 ($150 off)
- Toys R Us: Star Wars Interactive Figures 50% off (normally $99.99)
- Gamestop: Porg Electronic Plush $29.99 ($10 off)
- Gamestop: Sphero BB-8, R2, BB9E on sale. $50 off R2 ($129.99), $20 off BBs ($129.99)
- NERF Rival Apollo Mandalorian Blaster set $69.99 ($20 off)
- Video Games
- Best Buy: Free Darth Maul POP if you buy Battlefront II (Store Only)
- Gamestpo: Get up to a $50 bonus in Galaxy of Heroes when you buy a Google Play gift card
- Meijer: Playstation 4 Star Wars Battlefront II 1TB Console — $299.99 and save $50 on your next Shopping Trip
- Other
- JC Penny: Kids (boys) Star Wars clothes 50% off
- JC Penny: Men’s Star Wars Gifts 60% off (cups, mugs, Yoda Slippers etc)
- Staples AND Meijer: Star Wars Drones $50 off (99.99)
- Petco: ENTIRE STOCK of Star Wars Pet Collection 25% off
- Watch us on FB & Twitter for live reports of online sales
Toys
LEGO
Hot Toys
-
- K-2SO – shipping now
- Jyn Erso (Deluxe version) – shipping now. So many accessories!!!
- Grand Moff Tarkin – preorder
Books
- Star Wars novels/reading for 2017:
- Rogue One Novelization
- Rebel Rising (YA)
- Thrawn
- Battlefront II: Inferno Squad
- Phasma
- Leia: Princess of Alderaan (YA)
- From a Certain Point of View
- The Legend of Luke Skywalker (YA)
- Doctor Aphra Vol. 1 (TPB)
- A Saga on Home Video: A Fan’s Guide to U.S. Star Wars Home Video Releases by Nathan P. Butler
- 99 Stormtroopers Join the Empire
- Canto Bight (releasing Dec. 5, 2017)
- The Art of Star Wars: The Last Jedi (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Star Wars The Last Jedi The Visual Dictionary (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Star Wars The Last Jedi Incredible Cross-Sections (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Topp Trading Card books
- Retro Draughtsman Coffee Table Book
- Rogue One comic trade paperback
- Star Wars Adventures
Games
-
- Battlefront II (2017)
- Destiny 2-Player Game Everything you need to start playing in one box! Also a CCG, so single packs would be good stocking stuffers in addition to the 2-player game, or if they already play.
Household Items
- Kid’s furniture and rugs
- Star Wars Bounty paper towels
- Jabba/Salacious Tiki Mugs
- Title crawl floor runner
- Stormtrooper Claret Jug (actually a whisky decanter)
- 1:6 dioramas for ikea cases
- Porg Soup Cup from Hot Topic
- Vader Tea Set from Hot Topic
Other
- Hard Enamel Porg Pin
- Captain Phasma NIXON watch
- Swarovski Crystal Threepio
- Swarovski Crystal R2-D2
- Swarovski Crystal BB-8
- Retro Draughtsman Empire Strikes Back Calendar
- Maped Helix ‘Star Wars 40th Anniversary’ Stationary
- Stance star wars socks
- Gift card to get art prints framed
- Little Bits Droid Inventor Kit
- Cross Darth Vader Rollerball Pen
- Darth Vader Men’s Suit from Think Geek
- FigureShields
- American Tourister Luggage
- Star Wars Lip Balm Pack
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi Porg Stationery Set – Exclusive | ThinkGeek
- Now Playing: Underrated Movies We Recommend
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 497: 2 Cons 1 Porg
Hosted by Marjorie Carvalho, Arnie Carvalho, Justin Kozisek, and Daryl Whitlow
This weekend is New York Comic-Con…or it might be called a mini Star Wars Celebration! There are dozens of Star Wars guests including Mark Hamill, Felicy Jones, Ashley Eckstein, plus Star Wars comic creators, artists, and more! On this Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie run down the Force-filled events at this con! Including an interview with Star Wars author Greg Stones, whose book 99 Stormtroopers Join the Empire is on sale now and he’ll be signing at the show!
Plus hear a first-hand report of Hasbro’s own HASCON convention! Arnie was there. Hear if this is a con you should plan on going to next year. Plus Arnie is joined by Steve Niven and Joe Ninivaggi from Hasbro for an exclusive interview talking more Star Wars Toys.
With an interview with Justin, owner of FigureShield protective cases, and an early report on Hasbro’s Han Solo movie figures, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News podcast!
Source: Star Wars Action News
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 496: Force Friday II
Hosted by Marjorie Carvalho, Arnie Carvalho, Justin Kozisek, and Daryl Whitlow
This weekend was like Black Friday for Star Wars fans. Force Friday II — the weekend where Hasbro, Sideshow, Hot Toys, and every other company unleashes their new products for the first time! New figures were found in 6-inch and 3.75-inch…plus some super-articulated figures that weren’t supposed to be out yet!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News the team comes together to report on Force Friday not just across the US but across the globe! Hear reports of store finds from California, Illinois, Florida, Nebraska, and even the UK! What were everyone’s favorite finds? Join the crew to find out!
Plus on this episode Marjorie and Arnie review some new Hasbro 3.75-inch items, including the new C-3PO, Hux, and First Order Stormtrooper figures, the Rey and Praetorian Guard 2-pack, and the new deluxe Rathtar and Imperial Probe Droid!
All this and more on the new Star Wars Action News podcast!
Source: Star Wars Action News
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 495: Summer ’17 Cons: D23 & SDCC
Hosted by Marjorie Carvalho, Arnie Carvalho, Justin Kozisek, and Daryl Whitlow
Force Friday is a few short weeks away and (aside from a few leaks) Star Wars fans have little idea what to expect. But some news was had at the two big Star Wars events in July — D23 and SDCC!
On this new Star Wars Action News podcast Daryl joins Arnie and Marjorie to bring first-hand accounts from both conventions. Find out about the exclusives, the reveals, and more!
Source: Star Wars Action News
Episode 489: Rogue Group – A Rogue One Discussion
The very first Star Wars standalone movie has arrived. Without the Skywalkers and the Jedi, how does Rogue One stack up compared to the “saga” films?
On this show Arnie and Marjorie are joined by several members of the Star Wars Action News Team: Steve, Brock, Daryl, Andrew, and Jerry. Plus we have special guests Eddie from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Chris and Sarah. They go through the new characters in the film, how it changes their view of the Original Trilogy, and which toys the film made them want to buy!
And also on this show Brock gives a spoiler-free, in-depth review of the Rogue One prequel novel Catalyst by James Luceno!
So join these Rogues on their mission to review the new film!
Then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com for Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob’s in-depth review of the movie!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/zikxpd/SWAN489-RogueOneRoundtable.mp3
Episode 488: The Star Wars Holiday Sale & Gift Guide 2016
Happy Thanksgiving, Star Wars Action News listeners! And welcome to our 12th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!In this issue Marjorie and Arnie run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Black Series figures, video games, Star Wars themed glasses and gifts, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!Then the hosts, aided by the entire Star Wars Action News team, run down the best Star Wars themed gifts for 2016. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!All this and a 2016 Toys For Tots Challenge in this issue of Star Wars Action News!Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/3f3e58/SWAN489.mp3
Episode 487: Troops in Black
Stores are stocking up for holiday shoppers, and a good portion of their shelf space is devoted to Star Wars: Rogue One toys! While they have been out for a bit over a month some of the first wave of figures are still elusive.
On this episode of Star Wars Action News join Arnie, Marjorie, and Scott from Tulsa as they give in-depth reviews on the Black Series 6-Inch Rogue One figures. Plus a look at Amazon’s exclusive Shadow Trooper Helmet — all in this spooky Halloween episode!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/b5deaj/SWAN487.mp3
Episode 486: New York Comic Con 2016!
In just a few years New York Comic Con has become one of the top three most important conventions for collectors. Each year the number of exhibitors grow, now including Sideshow and Hot Toys, Kotobukiya, Sphero, Air Hogs, Hallmark, Beast Kingdom and more! And Hasbro isn’t on the show floor, but they use the event to reveal new toys as well.
For all the Star Wars news out of NYCC join Arnie, Marjorie, and Daryl for this podcast. Watch exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Tantrum Cases, and Kotobukiya (along with their Celebration ’17 exclusives!). Plus a booth tour of Sideshow and Hot Toys, and news from so many other collectible lines!
Plus a review of the new Star Wars novel Ahsoka, it’s all in this feature-length episode of Star Wars Action News! (and available in both full video and audio versions!)
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tjy9wb/SWAN486.mp3
Episode 485: Rogue Friday Around the World!
Last Friday the Rogue One toys were released! Well, officially any way…they had been showing up on store shelves worldwide for weeks before the official street date. But, like for The Force Awakens, these Rogue One toys were celebrated with a midnight release at Toys R Us and Walmart stores. Plus exclusive figures at Target, Walmart, K-Mart, Toys R Us, and more.
On this episode of Star Wars Action News, Arnie and Marjorie recount their Midnight Madness shopping, and are joined by collectors in California, England, and Australia to see how the experiences were in other areas as well!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8c2yjk/SWAN485.mp3
Episode 484: Hasbro Star Wars Figures? There’s an App for that.
Next week Star Wars will again descend upon stores across the world. Sep 30 is this year’s designated date for Rogue One toys, housewares, and more to be released. Some are hitting shelves now, but come Sep 30 everyone will have access to figures of Jyn Erso, the Deathtrooper, and more!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News the team gathers to discuss their anticipation for the toys, the new movie, and so much more. LEGO, Hot Toys, Disney Elite figures, and, of course, Hasbro Toys!
Build your anticipation for this toy release with this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/cddicu/SWAN484.mp3
Episode 483: ICE — Collecting to the Extreme!
Over Labor Day weekend a group of Star Wars collectors from across the globe gathered in the Washington DC area for an International Collector’s Event–or ICE. Items were sold and traded, collections were put on display, and friends swapped stories. All while traveling through Virginia and Maryland visiting a dozen Star Wars collections!
Marjorie and Arnie were on-hand to see these impressive displays and talk to some of the other attendees. So kick back and enjoy this extra-cool episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/34q7j3/SWAN483.mp3
Episode 482: SDCC Exclusives — Thumbs Up!
San Diego Comic-Con has come and gone, but the desire for exclusives lives on! Yesterday Hasbro Toy Shop put up for order their three Star Wars Black Series 6-Inch 2016 exclusives: Jyn Erso, Unmasked Kylo Ren, and A New Hope Obi-Wan Kenobi with talking holographic Leia! They were all gone in under an hour.
Are these figures worth the trouble it took to get them? Or the eBay prices? Join Arnie and Marjorie on this week’s show for in-depth reviews of all three Hasbro SDCC 2016 exclusives!
With a bonus review of Funko’s SDCC exclusive BB-8 with “Thumbs Up” lighter, and a look at the new Star Wars novel Aftermath: Life Debt, all this and much more is in this week’s new podcast!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ufzjie/swan482.mp3
Episode 481: Star Wars Collectibles at San Diego Comic-Con 2016
San Diego Comic-Con was last weekend, and Star Wars was everywhere! From announcements on books and comics to toys and collectibles, the Star Wars Action News team was there to bring you the highlights!
On this full video episode, Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Marvelicious Toys’ host Justin to talk about all the exclusives, the Hasbro reveals, and more.
Watch this episode for exclusive interviews with eFX Collectibles, Kotobukiya, Gentle Giant and Hasbro! Plus a tour of the floor and look at items by Beast Kingdom, Funko, and more!
And check out our photo galleries to see hundreds of pictures from the convention!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/99gbx8/SWAN481-edited_audio.mp3
Episode 480: Celebrating Star Wars in Eurorpe, 2016!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/feed/fi2c7q/SWAN480.mp3
Episode 479: We Collect Eternal…Shiny and Chrome!
Star Wars fans around the world — rejoice! In the next 2 weeks comes Star Wars Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! The news will be coming quickly about new toys and collectibles, as well as information on Episode VIII, Rogue One, and Rebels! And the Star Wars Action News team is going to be at both conventions covering it all.
Join the hosts this episode for the ultimate SDCC shopping guide. From exclusive Hasbro Black Series figures to Chewbacca watches to car decals–Arnie and Marjorie run down and rate the numerous Star Wars collectibles only available at the show!
And Steve “The Gingerprince” joins in to share his excitement for this weekend’s Celebration Europe 3! With an exclusive Black Series Kylo Ren figure, a bevy of Original Trilogy stars signing autographs, and more, Steve preps you for the event.
With a review of the Kotobukiya Art-FX+ Captain Phasma and a Vintage Viewpoint reviewing Topps’ new Empire Strieks Back trading card book, it’s all in this extended Star Wars Action News podcast!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tfgum6/SWAN479.mp3
Episode 478: House of Cards
Highly detailed, highly articulated Star Wars 3.75-inch figures are the mainstay of many fans’ collections. The news that The Force Awakens would only see a handful of these Black Series figures, and that they would be Walmart exclusives, made fans worry if these new toys would be obtainable. The third wave, with versions of Han Solo, General Leia, and Captain Phasma from The Force Awakens, has been elusive and fetched north of $40 per figure on eBay. But now, finally, the dam has broken and these figures are showing up coast to coast–including in the Star Wars Action News studio! On this week’s show hear a review of these latest figures and see if they’re worth more toy runs!
Yet while the Black Series 3.75-inch figures have been elusive, the main line of figures, with five points of articulation, are available at every store. Fans were divided on these detailed, but hard-to-pose figures. Now, enter Kozy–a figure customizer who has created cardbacks that elevate these figures from average to epic! He joins the Star Wars Action News hosts to talk about these cards and his inspiration for making them.
With a look at upcoming exclusives for San Diego Comic-Con International and Celebration Europe, new online sales, and much more, it’s all in this Wampa-sized episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/vzvbsi/SWAN478.mp3
Episode 477: To the Maz
She’s the most intriguing new alien introduced in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. She somehow has the lightsaber Luke lost on Bespin. She knows of the Force. She has a crush on the galaxy’s favorite Wookiee. She’s Maz Kanata — and if you want her in action figure form you have to buy the Takodana Encounter figure 4-pack. On this episode of Star Wars Action News, hear a review of that set to see if it’s worth hunting for!
Also on this show, last week ticket sales began for the eighth Star Wars Celebration in the United States, this time back in Orlando! Listen as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Jake Stevens from From 4-Lom to Zuckuss as they look ahead to next year’s biggest Star Wars party.
With two new premium format figures from Sideshow, a real-life Star Wars hologram, and more information about this year’s Star Wars Celebration in London, it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ei63wd/SWAN477.mp3
Episode 476: You Don’t Know the Moistness of the Dark Side
May the 4th has come and gone, but for many the credit card hangover still remains. There were new releases from Disney, Sideshow, Gentle Giant, Hot Toys, plus sales at LEGO and more! Biggest of all, the next Star Wars Celebration convention was confirmed! On this week’s podcast Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Ryan and Amy from Star Wars Collecting Cosmos. The four look back on the highs, lows, and purchases of May the 4th, 2016!
Also on this week’s show, Brock reviews the new Star Wars novel BLOODLINE. Taking place between Episode VI and VII, this book had direct input from Lucasfilm to help shape the universe for Episode VIII. Join Brock to find out if this is a must read for you.
With a review of the S.H. Figuarts Captain Phasma, a Darth Vader Humidifier, and a run-down of the perks of being a Jedi Knight or Master, it’s all in this week’s new podcast!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/7bjrp8/SWAN476.mp3
Episode 475: May the 4th Comes Earlier Every Year
New Black Series figures are hitting shelves — but are they the last new 6-inch Star Wars toys we’ll see until fall? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Marvelicious Toys podcast host Justin as they discuss the immediate future of the line. They also review the two new waves showing up in stores now, with new figures including Jango Fett, FN-2187, The Force Awakens style Han Solo, and A New Hope version of Tattooine Luke Skywalker!
Also on this week’s show, the hosts went to Indiana Comic-Con with special guests Ray Park and Ian McDiarmid. Join them, and their guest Daryl, as they discuss the convention–and the collectibles found there!
With a run-down of all the May the 4th day Star Wars specials known so far and more, it’s all in this oversized episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/5jiq3n/SWAN475.mp3
Star Wars Action News Ep 474: We’re Down To buy Figuarts!
Star Wars action figure collectors have a wealth of options. Whereas once we had only Kenner/Hasbro action figures, these days there are options in every scale and price point. One of those new figure lines is Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts 6-inch line. The price is double that of a Hasbro 6-inch figure, but is it worth it? On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie give an in-depth review of the S.H. Figuarts First Order Stormtrooper, and tell you if it’s worth the price they paid!
Support Star Wars Action News with their new Podbean Campaign!
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Episode 474: We’re Down To buy Figuarts
Star Wars action figure collectors have a wealth of options. Whereas once we had only Kenner/Hasbro action figures, these days there are options in every scale and price point. One of those new figure lines is Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts 6-inch line. The price is double that of a Hasbro 6-inch figure, but is it worth it? On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie give an in-depth review of the S.H. Figuarts First Order Stormtrooper, and tell you if it’s worth the price they paid!
And also on this week’s show, the hosts review Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ First Order Stormtrooper statue 2-pack. Listen in to find out why this may be a statue collection you want to troop build!
With a complete run down of all US Blu-ray releases of The Force Awakens, news of an upcoming prototype Elite Series figure, and the latest rumors for 2016’s Force Friday event, it’s all on this Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/x5qgzc/SWAN474.mp3
Episode 473: Blu Rey
Tomorrow The Force Awakens arrives on Blu-Ray — the first new
live-action Star Wars home release in 11 years. There are a handful of
exclusive versions and many tie-in sales. Prep for your Tuesday shopping
by joining Arnie and Marjorie to find out which version is right for
you!
Plus tomorrow also marks the rerelease of the Disney Store
exclusive Elite figures — including a new Boba Fett! Find out how you
can score these figures that have commanded top dollar on eBay.
With a report from Wizard World Chicago, a review of the latest Funko
Smuggler’s Bounty box, and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star
Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/aamrge/swan473.mp3
Episode 472: Having a Blaster at C2E2 2016
This past weekend was C2E2 in Chicago. Marjorie, Arnie, and Daryl were there checking out the panels and all the booths at the con. Join them on this episode as they report on their hunts for items like Bandai Movie Realization figures, S.H. Figuarts Stormtroopers, Hasbro Black Series, and more! Plus they highlight some special Artist’s Alley finds.
Also on this episode, Jerry is back with another Vintage Viewpoint. He looks at the classic Stormtrooper Blaster toy, and reveals its surprising Batman tie!
Finally Andrew is back with two new Hot Toys — A New Hope Luke and Stormtrooper Luke Skywalker. Does he like these Lukes? Join him to find out in this new Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8h9qrm/SWAN472.mp3
Episode 471: Hot Toys — Assemble the Troops!
While most of us spent Force Friday, 2015 standing outside our local toy stores, Hot Toys collectors were making tough choices. Up for pre-order that day were the first wave of figures for The Force Awakens — and there were lots of them! More pre-orders followed, and now Hot Toys fans are rewarded by a legion of figures showing up on their doorsteps. In this episode Andrew assembles his ranks of Hot Toys First Order Stormtroopers. How different are they, and were they worth the price? Join him to find out!
Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie review Wave 3 of the Star Wars Black Series 6-inch figures, with a First Order TIE Fighter Pilot and a Resistance Trooper. Plus they also run down all the news regarding The Force Awakens Blu-Ray releases!
All this and a report from Wizard World Cleveland in this latest episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/m4yjia/SWAN471.mp3
Episode 470: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko and More from Javitz
Toy Fair International is over, and Star Wars Action News is here to wrap-up all the news collectors care about!
In this episode Marjorie and Arnie recap their Javitz booth visits. They spoke with Dan from Kotobukiya about their upcoming Art-FX+ statues and housewares goods. Funko reveals new POPs, and hints at upcoming Hikari Sofubi characters. Revell shows off new models and teases their Rogue One offerings. Plus several others!
And also this show you can hear Hasbro’s Star Wars Brand Presentation. Our previous episode ran down the reveals, but now you can hear the full presentation straight from Hasbro’s team!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/63q3jp/SWAN470.mp3
Episode 469: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 – LEGO, Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and more!
Marjorie and Arnie are in New York City to bring you the latest news from Toy Fair International 2016! And if that’s not enough — they’re also giving away a Sideshow Collectibles 12-inch Boba Fett figure!
In this first part of their coverage, join them as they discuss all the latest reveals from Hasbro’s Toy Fair presentation. Hasbro displayed two new Sabine figures from Rebels, A New Hope Luke and Leia in the 6-inch Series, and more 6-inch Black Series figures. Plus they revealed news about their upcoming summer convention exclusives, for both Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! Join in to catch up on the news!
Also in this first episode the hosts run down all the new sets revealed by LEGO, and they are Hoth! Hoth! Hoth! Arnie saw the new Ultimate Collector Set Hoth diorama first hand. Listen in to find out if it’s the best new set on display, or if the new X-Wing, Carbon Freezing Chamber, or other sets stole the show!
With a thumbs-up BB-8 from Jakks Pacific and more, it’s all in this first Toy Fair 2016 episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Episode 468: Turning Japanese
Toy Fair International is just 5 days away! This weekend Hasbro, LEGO, Kotobukiya, and so many more companies will reveal their 2016 Star Wars line-up. But will there be much to show? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie prepare for the coverage and tell you what has already leaked out!
And one of the big reveals at Toy Fair last year was the Tamshii Nations Movie Realization Star Wars line featuring Darth Vader and Stormtroopers as Japanese samurai. On this show we review the newest release in that line — the Ronin Boba Fett!
With a look at new ceramic Star Wars dinnerware, a new Hot Toys figure aimed right at gamers, and much more, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News!
Episode 467: In Space…No One Can Hear You Troop
Star Wars Action News is back with its first regular show of 2016, and it’s a Hot one! Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Hot Toys addict Andrew to review two of that company’s Movie Masterpiece Series Star Wars figures. First, the three look at the Star Wars Celebration Anaheim exclusive Spacetrooper figure. It’s still available on their site — should you order it?
Then Andrew talks about his biggest Hot Toys purchase, the quarter scale Boba Fett. This 18-inch Mandalorian carries a hefty bounty. Listen to find out if he’s worth a lot to Andrew!
With Brock reviewing Alan Dean Foster’s The Force Awakens novelization, a run-down on new figures hitting stores, and a cuddly Valentine’s Day bouquet, it’s all in this brand new episode of Star Wars Action News!
Episode 466: 2015 Star Wars Collectors’ Year in Review
For Star Wars collectors 2015 started in a famine and ended in a feast — with plenty of highs and lows along the way! We look back at the Star Wars Celebration: Anaheim reveals, the convention exclusives, and all the action figures, mini-busts, import figures, and high-end collectibles. Plus the bottled water, the oranges, the cereals, and all the other tie-ins!
So listen now as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by other Star Wars Action News team members and friends and look back on the year that was…and the next year to come!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Episode 465: The Fans Awaken
SPOILER WARNING: This podcast has an in-depth discussion of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The toys, the movie, the books, are all fair game.
Nothing shakes up Star Wars collecting more than a new property. Every movie and TV series brings new figure lines, vehicles, and more. In the case of The Force Awakens we even got water and produce!
Fans have been collecting Force Awakens figures on blind faith ever since Force Friday in early September. For over three months we’ve speculated — why doesn’t the Finn figure come with a lightsaber? Who is Constable Zuvvio?
But now the film has awoken fans across the globe!
And on this episode of Star Wars Action News, the first part of our 2015 year-in-review coverage, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by many friends to discuss the new film Join them to find out how the movie impacted them…and their collections!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Episode 464: Rey Bans
There’s been an awakening…have you felt it? As The Force Awakens hits theaters, Star Wars Action News reporter Justin awakened the Disney empire with his Walmart store find — a new 3.75-inch Rey figure!
It was the figure find heard across the world! Some claimed the figure was a spoiler, others started their own hunts, and Disney and Lucasfilm started sending takedown notices. What’s all the hullabaloo about? And was the figure worth the trouble it caused? Justin joins Arnie and Marjorie on this show to tell the tale!
Also on this week’s show, Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin report on the latest store finds and online exclusives. With figure multi-pack exclusives at Toys R Us and Kohls, and a Disney exclusive Boba Fett that’s commanding a huge bounty, join the hosts for all the news.
With an in depth look at the new Star Wars Topps Trading Cards book and more, The Force Awakens on Star Wars Action News!
We want your pictures! Share your Force Awakens theater photos on the Star Wars Action News Facebook page!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Episode 463: 2015 Holiday Gift & Black Friday Guide
Happy Thanksgiving to all the Star Wars Action News community!
While your uncle gets drunk and your sister yells about football we give you our 11th annual Holiday Gift Guide. What do you get for the Star Wars collector who has everything? Or what should those in your life buy for you? Marjorie and Arnie, along with guest host Andrew, have dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to life sized statues, the whole range is in this guide!
Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. Are there any Star Wars sales worth braving the crowds? Listen to find out!
And be sure you get, and give, a Star Wars themed gift this year! Our annual Sithmas gift exhange registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.
Episode 462: Phasma-tastic
As The Force Awakens draws closer we get new information, new trailers, and…new toys! With the Guavian Enforcer, Captain Phasma, Constable Zuvio and Poe Dameron the second wave of 6-inch Black Series figures is hitting stores now. On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie review this new wave of figures–and try to guess how they fit into the new movie. And they also review the new KMart exclusive Kylo Ren – Starkiller Base Black Series figure.
Also on this week’s show, with tomorrow’s release of Battlefront the game, Brock joins us to look at the Star Wars: Battlefront novel Twilight Company. He also reviews the new audiobook adaptations for the young readers’ adaptations of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi.
With Berent’s report from Gentle Giant Days in Burbank, a rundown of new Star Wars merchandise hitting stores, and more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Listen to this episode, then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com Nov 17 as they begin their review of the Star Wars prequels, leading up to their weekend of release review of The Force Awakens!
Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!
Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!
Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!
So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN462.mp3
Episode 461: Star Wars the Flamethrower!
Only 50 days until The Force Awakens and Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie couldn’t be more excited. Tickets have been purchased, plans made, and the countdown is on.
But for collecting it may be easier to list the items that don’t have Star Wars tie-ins instead of those that do. Soup, bottled water, apples, coffee creamer, El Paso Tacos! On this week’s show the hosts sift through the plethora of items and tell you which are the cool ones to hunt for.
With new waves of Hasbro figures hitting shelves, Black Series exclusives from Walmart, Target, and K-Mart, and where you can find Wave 2 of the new Force Awakens figures, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!
Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!
Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!
Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!
So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN461.mp3
Episode 460: Han Hot First!
Hot Toys has shipped its half-witted, scruffy looking, nerf herder…and his walking carpet pal! That’s right, the first Hot Toys Star Wars figures ever announced — Han Solo and Chewbacca — have now shipped, and Andrew has them in hand! Listen to this episode to find out why one of them has become his favorite Hot Toys figure yet!
Also in this week’s episode, Arnie has come back from New York Comic-Con with tons of photos and news about Hasbro, Kotobukiya, and other Star Wars collectibles. Join him, Marjorie, and guest Matt Booker from JediNews.uk to find out all the news, and then listen to an exclusive Q&A with the Hasbro Brand Team. They revealed when stores will fully stock new figures only to Star Wars Action News!
With Brock looking at the new short stories in the Rise of the Empire novel collection, Steve running down his thoughts on the new Force Awakens 3.75-inch figures, and more, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN460.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 459: Fifty Shades of White
It’s been one month since Force Friday but the onslaught of new Star Wars products has not let up. From tie in items like vitamins to cereal to toothpaste to Pop Chips, Star Wars is on everything. And of course that means lots of new toys too!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Andrew to look at some of the new Star Wars items in a head to head match.
First we put two BB-8s to the test — Hasbro’s Target Exclusive Remote Control BB-8 versus Sphero’s App Controlled BB-8. One is bigger, one is more expensive, but should you buy one, both, or neither?
Then we look at Disney’s new Elite line of 6.5-inch Die Cast action figures. They’re $5 more than Hasbro’s Black Series 6-inch, but every bit as in demand, selling out nationwide. On this show we put Disney’s Elite First Order Stormtrooper to the test against Hasbro’s Black Series counterpart.
Plus Brock joins us for a review of the novel Aftermath, we look at Hot Toys’ new Star Wars releases, and more on this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN459.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 458: Force Friday Rockin Eve!
There’s been an awakening…has your wallet felt it?
Last Friday was declared “Force Friday” by Lucasfilm — the day that hundreds of items would be revealed and released for Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. Hasbro figures big and small, Jakks Pacific gumbo figures, Micro Machines, LEGO sets, Disney Store exclusives, and so much more was unleashed upon fans in a global, coordinated 12:01 a.m. release.
But the biggest event happened at the Times Square Toys R Us. With a day full of events, a traveling Rancho Obi-Wan exhibit from Steve Sansweet, and hundreds of fans hungry for toys, the flagship Toys R Us was the center of activity — and Marjorie & Arnie were there to cover it!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News, join Marjorie & Arnie as they recount the events of Force Friday, including both before and after interviews with Steve Sansweet.
Then other Star Wars Action News team members report in with midwest toy releases, a report from the Disneyland exclusive ticketed toy release, and even a report from the UK on the release! All the hosts share their experiences, their purchases, and their frustrations in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
And after you watch, come to the Star Wars Action News forums and share your tale of Force Friday shopping!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN458.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 457: Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary from Wizard World Chicago
A long time ago…on a web site far, far away
Ten years ago, August 30, 2005, two Star Wars collectors released the world’s first podcast dedicated to Star Wars collecting: Star Wars Action News. From the Revenge of the Sith line through The Black Series, and even looking back at Vintage and 90s toys, Marjorie and Arnie have covered it all.
This episode celebrates the milestone, bringing in Star Wars Action News team members Arnie, Marjorie, Brock, Jerry, Daryl, Andrew, and others as they look forward to a new era of Star Wars collecting with The Force Unleashed!
Join them as they talk Wizard World Chicago, leaked images of The Force Awakens toys and figures, and their plans for next week’s Force Friday event!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN457.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 456: Finger Falcon
We are less than one month away from Force Friday – the day when an onslaught of new Star Wars toys, books, collectibles, and more will be released! On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie look forward to the upcoming event and want your story from that night!
Also on this week’s show, the hosts review the new Star Wars line of die cast starships from Hot Wheels. With a mix of Original Trilogy, Prequel, Clone Wars, and Rebels ships, this line enters an already crowded area of miniature Star Wars vehicles. Listen to find out if these ships are the ones you should collect!
With a gaming report from 2015’s Gen Con, a review of some quality Star Wars ladies’ accessories, some deep discount Star Wars graphic novels and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star Wars Action News!
Plus, in 2 weeks Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a FREE party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!
Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!
Find out all details and get your tickets now!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 455: Star Wars at Conventions From San Diego to London
The 2015 San Diego Comic-Con is gone, but not forgotten. In addition to the exclusive First Order Stormtrooper selling out faster than you can say “Blast it!”, the images of giant TIE Fighters, working R2-D2 robots, and McQuarrie art based statues still dance in our heads.
Last week you had a floor tour of the major booths at the con. Now join Marjorie and Arnie this week as they recap San Diego Comic-Con, including the companies with the best showings and the coolest items coming soon. They are also joined by resident Hot Toys expert Andrew to discuss that TIE Fighter and that even bigger Millennium Falcon, and Berent recounts his experience getting into the Star Wars panel at Hall H!
Also on this week’s show, Steve “The Gingerprince” reports in from a convention on the other side of the pond: London Film and Comic Con. He recounts his celebrity meetings and rare purchases at the con.
All this and Brock’s review of Dark Disciple in this week’s new Star Wars Action News!
Plus, next month Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!
Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!
Find out all details and get your tickets now!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 454: The Force is With SDCC 2015
Star Wars was back in a big way at San Diego Comic-Con 2015. Hasbro and Hot Toys competed for the most impressive TIE Fighter on the floor. eFX filled a booth with upcoming prop replicas–including a fully functional, life-sized R2-D2, and Gentle Giant couldn’t satiate the demand for both the Jumbo and mini-Bust versions of Boba Fett.
Marjorie and Arnie were there on the floor of the con the entire time, posting interviews, panels, and more to the Star Wars Action News YouTube channel. Now you can download their coverage to your iPhone and feel like you were there at the convention!
With an exclusive Hasbro Q&A, a look forward at offerings from Gentle Giant, a Hot Toys booth tour and so much more, it’s on this episode of Star Wars Action News.
For even more coverage, subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see the Hasbro Panel, the Star Wars Collectibles Panel, and the Star Wars Books panels in full!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 453: The First Order
San Diego Comic-Con draws closer, and with that come even more reveals. From Lucasfilm’s Hall H panel on Friday to something even more exciting for collectors — the reveals of the first toys from Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. Marjorie and Arnie run down this news, and rate your chances of scoring the SDCC exclusive Hasbro figure, on this week’s show!
Then Brock and Jerry join forces for a segment that’s both a book review and a segment for vintage collectors as they look back on the various books that help collectors of the early Star Wars toys.
With Darryl providing a review of the new Star Wars figures from S.H. Figuarts, Steve “The Gingerprince” reporting on the latest UK conventions, and a contest to win a custom melted Vader head, it’s all in this issue of Star Wars Action News!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 452: Cuckoo for Koto Stuffs
Kotobukiya had one of the most stunning booth displays at Star Wars Celebration 2015. Their Art-FX+ display of dozens of Stormtroopers standing at the ready, with Royal Guards and Vader at the fore, was truly a spectacular sight to behold. They also continued to grow this line of tenth-scale statues with their celebration exclusive K-3PO and R3-A2 droid pack. Marjorie and Arnie review those new droids, as well as the Royal Guard Art-FX+ two-pack, in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also in this episode, a rundown of the recently announced SDCC exclusives, more news on finding the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures, A New Hope for Hot Toys, and more — it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News show!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 451: Hot Toys Stormtroopers – Shiny and New
Hot Toys’ line of Movie Masterpiece 12-inch scale figures continues to grow. Luke and Leia have been teased, and recently they shipped their first non-exclusive figure: The Stormtrooper, soldindividually and in a two-pack. Andrew has them in hand and is here with an in-depth review.
Also in this week’s show is a discussion of the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures that inexplicably appeared for sale at Go! Calendar stores across the country. Johnathan has them in hand and gives his thoughts, as well as a report of what he’s finding in stores.
With Brock reviewing Paul S Kemp’s new novel Lords of the Sith, Steve the Gingerprince giving a report from Star Wars Fan Fun Days, and Arnie and Marjorie recording live at Wizard World St. Louis, it’s all in this week’s Star Wars Action News podcast!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 450: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 3 – Floor Tour & Wrap Up
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
It’s May 4th, the day fans designated “Star Wars day” and has been quickly co-opted by every Star Wars licensee to discount the items that don’t sell! But here is welcome relief from a deluge of 10% off codes — a new episode of Star Wars Action News!
In this, our final episode from Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015, Marjorie and Arnie record right from the show floor. Join them for booth tours of Sideshow, eFX Collectibles, the Celebration official store, and more!
Plus join Arnie as he talks action figures with the Hasbro Star Wars brand team. You submitted your questions and Arnie asks them!
With a group of fans giving their reactions to the new Force Awakens trailer moments after it was shown, and a recap on the convention as a whole, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 449: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 2 – Sunday Podcast All-Stars Live Show
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
Toys, panels, autographs, swap meets, trading, exclusive reveals and more — Star Wars Celebration Anaheim had so much to do that no one podcast can contain it all. So in this episode we get four!
Marjorie, Berent, and Arnie from Star Wars Action News, Matt Fox from This Week in Star Wars, Jason Luttrull and Ryan Beise from Galaxy of Toys, and Amy Sjoberg from Star Wars Collecting Cosmos came together for the biggest podcast of the convention!
Join the gang as they discuss Star Wars collecting at Celebration, The Force Awakens, and so much more!
If you missed Celebration this show will make you feel like you were there! If you attended the con, relive the experience, all with this mega-packed podcast!
Watch now, and then join us in a few days for even more coverage of Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 448: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 1 – Saturday Live Show
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
The seventh Star Wars Celebration convention was an explosion of fandom held in Anaheim, CA. With new trailers and teasers shown for the next two Star Wars films, a gaggle of celebrities, and tens of thousands of fans, the event captivated fans worldwide!
Now in the first part of Star Wars Action News’ coverage of the convention comes this recording of the Live Podcast recorded Saturday afternoon at Celebration! Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Star Wars Action News team members Daryl and Andrew to discuss the reveals, the exclusives, the lines, and more!
Watch now, and then join us in a few days for even more coverage of Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 447: Celebration SWAG-ger
In 3 days the world’s largest Star Wars party begins — Star Wars Celebration Anaheim! With attendance projected to be the largest of any Star Wars convention and overnights already planned for the J.J. Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy panel, it’s the single largest collection of Star Wars fans and collectors–and that means plenty of exclusives! From Kotobukiya to Gentle Giant to the official Celebration store–listen as Marjorie and Arnie run down the must buys!
But not all the collectibles are for sale–some are just given away! Yes, more than the official exclusives this seems to be the celebration of Star Wars SWAG! Patches, pins, buttons, toys, Star Tots, and so much more is just waiting to join your collection! The Star Wars Action News hosts discuss this–and preview the Star Wars Action News Celebration Anaheim SWAG–in this week’s episode!
With a store report by Johnathan, a discussion of the digital download releases of the Star Wars saga, and Jerry with a neo-Vintage Viewpoint, it’s plenty to keep you entertained in line while you wait to get in the con! So download this episode of Star Wars Action News now!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 446: Hot Toys — Out of the Shadows
Star Wars Celebration is just 2 weeks away–have you gotten in line yet? Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie will be there running the Collector’s Social Area, part of the official Celebration Collector’s Track of events! On this week’s podcast, they run down the exclusives announced so far for the convention, and tell you about the one event no Star Wars collector should miss–the Swap Meet Saturday night at 7pm.
Also on this week’s show Andrew joins the hosts to look at the first figure in a new line of Star Wars figures: Hot Toys’ Shadow Trooper. After many years of creating the single best figure line for Marvel movie fans Hot Toys has now come to the Galaxy Far, Far Away. They’ve put seven figures up for pre-order already, but the first to ship was the black-armored trooper. Watch this week’s show to see how this figure ranks, and if you have to add it to your collection!
All this and more in this week’s Star Wars Action News!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 445: Maximize Your Fun at Celebration With a Bottle of Water and a Plan
In less than one month the world’s largest Star Wars party takes place in Anaheim — Star Wars Celebration! There will be celebrities, exclusives, panels, vendors and more! There will also be lines, standing and waiting, rooms filled before you get in, and bottles of soda for almost $5 each.
On this week’s Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie help you prepare to get the most out of Celebration! At Celebration 5 and 6 they presented their panel A Bottle of Water and a Plan and now they bring it to the podcast so everyone can have the best time at Celebration!
And for this special show they are joined by other convention veterans, Jerry, Daryl, and Chris! All the panelists have been at multiple Star Wars Celebrations, as well as a combined hundreds of other conventions including San Diego Comic-Con! They even recorded this at Indiana Comic-Con this weekend! Save your feet with their tips!
Plus find out about the Star Wars Celebration Collectors’ Swap Meet, special exclusive Celebration patches and pins, and more! It’s all in this pre-Celebration episode of Star Wars Action News!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 444: Keep Feeling Fabrikation
At Toy Fair International last week Funko was one of the few companies with lots of new Star Wars toys and collectibles on display. A rising Force in Star Wars collections, Funko has cornered the market on “cute” Star Wars figures. Last year they expanded that line to include Star Wars Fabrikations. They’re part action figure, part plushie, and all adorable. On this week’s Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie look at three figures in this line: Boba Fett, Chewbacca, and Yoda!
For more high end Star Wars collectors, the first Star Wars figure from Hot Toys is shipping soon–the Shadow Stormtrooper! To prepare, listen to a review of that other Hot Toys Star Wars figure–the Bespin Luke Skywalker. Done as part of Sideshow’s 1/6 scale figure line, this version of Luke was a partnership with Hot Toys and shows what fans can expect from the new company.
With a review of the new Star Wars novel Heir to the Jedi, a review of the Disney Store exclusive Empire Strikes Back figure set, Star Wars Celebration Anaheim announcements, and more, it’s all in this week’s Star Wars Action News show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 443: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko, and More from the Javits Center
Want to lift X-Wing starfighters with the power of your mind? Or proudly display figures showing Darth Vader as a feudal samurai? What about having a rubbery vinyl toy of a Wampa with blood spilled down his front? From new Celebration Anaheim exclusives to toys that boggle the mind, all that and more was revealed in New York City’s Javits Center during Toy Fair International 2015!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News join Marjorie and Arnie for a virtual tour around the booths of Toy Fair featuring Statues, Role Playing Games, toys, housewares and more! Find out about the funky new Funko collectibles including a rainbow Bossk! Then hear an exclusive interview with Kotobukiya’s Dan Lujan to find out about upcoming statues, including the fate of the female Stormtrooper Bishoujo.
The Force Awakens in 2012, but not for 10 more months, so find out all the Star Wars goodies coming before then in this Star Wars Action News show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 442: Toy Fair 2015 Part 1 – Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and LEGO
Star Wars Celebration, San Diego Comic-Con, New York Comic-Con…when it comes to toy news they all pale compared to New York Toy Fair International. The show is where toy manufacturers reveal most of the toys that will ship throughout the year. The show is for the toy makers to sell to wholesalers and retailers, but press is let in and for collectors it becomes a preview of the year’s new Star Wars toys!
On the first part of the Star Wars Action News report from Toy Fair find out about all the announcements from some of the biggest Star Wars toy manufacturers–LEGO, Hasbro, and Jakks Pacific! With an exclusive interview with Hasbro’s Star Wars brand team and more, it’s all in this episode!
And check back next week for more interviews and news from Toy Fair!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News Ep 441: 1995 – Now: 20 Years of Modern Figures
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 440: 2014 Year in Review Part 2 and 2015 in Preview
The Star Wars Action News Year-End shows conclude with this second part of the team’s roundtable discussion!
Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Steve “The Gingerprince”, Johnathan, Curtis, Daryl, Brock, Jay and Andrew to look back at the high-end collectibles that Force-d them to open their wallets! From Gentle Giant mini-busts to Sideshow Premium Format Figures and the new, high end sixth scale figure line from Hot Toys, it’s all discussed in this show!
Then the team puts 2014 to bed and looks forward to what 2015 Awakens. With the first new live-action Star Wars film in a decade coming this December, Rebels on television, and a new continuity for novels and comics, join them to hear what is in store!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News 2014 In Review Part 1 – Watch now!
For Star Wars fans 2014 came in with a whimper but went out with a bang! From a year that started with few Star Wars figures to be found in either the 4 or 6-inch scales, it ended with Expanded Universe 6-Inch figures, new lines of 3.75-inch figures, and Star Wars fans everywhere trying to “get to da Chopper!”
Now in the first part of the Star Wars Action News year in review, the Star Wars Action News team looks back at 2014 from the point of view of a toy collector. Marjorie and Arnie are joined by several other collectors to rate the best and worst of Star Wars collecting this year!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 439: 2014 Year in Review Part 1 – Hasbro Star Wars Toys
For Star Wars fans 2014 came in with a whimper but went out with a bang! From a year that started with few Star Wars figures to be found in either the 4 or 6-inch scales, it ended with Expanded Universe 6-Inch figures, new lines of 3.75-inch figures, and Star Wars fans everywhere trying to “get to da Chopper!”
Now in the first part of the Star Wars Action News year in review, the Star Wars Action News team looks back at 2014 from the point of view of a toy collector. Marjorie and Arnie are joined by several other collectors to rate the best and worst of Star Wars collecting this year!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News Episode 438: Tarkin ‘Bout Toys
With a review of James Lucino’s new Star Wars novel Tarkin and Jerry looking back on books of yesteryear, and ThinkGeek plushes too, you’ll find all this and more in this Episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 438: Tarkin ‘Bout Toys
It’s been a long time since Star Wars action figure collectors could shop exclusively at their local brick-and-mortar stores to get the figures they wanted. Since the release of Hasbro’s The Vintage Collection in 2010 store supplies have been scarce. Now, however, that seems ready to change! Across the country collectors are finding new Black Series figures in both 3.75-inch and 6-inch lines, plus new Rebels and Mission Series figures too! On this episode of Star Wars Action News you can listen to find out which stores to hit to score full waves of new figures.
Also on this week’s show, Arnie and Marjorie discuss Hot Toys’ first exclusive release in their Star Wars Movie Masterpiece Series–the Shadow Stormtrooper. A repaint of their basic Stormtrooper figure, this release sold out in just a few hours at Sideshow Collectibles. What’s the fuss all about? Listen to find out!
With a review of James Lucino’s new Star Wars novel Tarkin and Jerry looking back on books of yesteryear, and ThinkGeek plushes too, you’ll find all this and more in this Episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
New Podcast: Episode 437: Black Friday Deals and 2014 Holiday Gift Guide
Want to know where to save big on Star Wars LEGOs, Blu Rays, and more this weekend? Then join Marjorie and Arnie for the 2014 Black Friday (and Thursday) shopping guide! While the Star Wars bargains are few, there are some choice items for those brave enough to face the lines and the crowds. Listen to this episode to find out what!
Then keep listening for the Star Wars Action News annual holiday gift guide! This year has gift ideas ranging from $3.00 to over $7,0000! No matter if you’re buying for young or old, man or woman, listen to find what to get the Star Wars collector who seems to already have everything!
And don’t forget to sign up for the Star Wars Action Sithmas Gift Exchange! Sign-ups end December 2nd. Get and give some Star Wars joy this season by joining this Secret Santa gift exchange! All the details are at http://www.swactionnews.com/Sithmas/
All this and more in this Episode of Star Wars Action News!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN437.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 436: Plastic Galaxy: The Story of Star Wars Toys
George Lucas’ 1977 space fantasy Star Wars changed the way American audiences consumed films. More, though, it also changed the landscape for movie merchandising, with more money being made on toys, games, and collectibles than on the movies themselves. Now the documentary Plastic Galaxy looks back at the first generation of Star Wars toys, released between 1977 and 1985 from Kenner. Does this film capture the childhood magic of Star Wars figures, and can the documentary appeal to anyone not already obsessed with little plastic Stormtroopers? Find out in this special Now Playing/Star Wars Action News crossover podcast hosted by Marjorie, Arnie, and Jerry!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN436.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 435: It’s the Yoda Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!
Halloween is this week and the costumes and decorations have started to go on sale! On this week’s Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie discuss the hard-to-find collectibles that combine Trick-or-Treating with the Galaxy Far, Far Away!
Also on this week’s show–reviews of two new 6-inch figures! First they look at the Hasbro Black Series Biker Scout with Speeder Bike, the first vehicle in the new, larger scale. Does it live up to the preview shown at SDCC?
And then the first Walgreens exclusive Hasbro Star Wars figure–Boba Fett in Prototype Armor. How does this compare to the original outfit, and is it worth the (bounty) hunt?
With Johnathan joining for an On The Pegs segment and a look at the latest offerings from Gentle Giant and Sideshow, it’s all on this new episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN435.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 433: Collecting Nirvana in Aberdeen
Marjorie & Arnie are back from a trip across the American west, and of course they did some Star Wars shopping while there! Visiting with the members of SARLACC in Seattle, they visited several stores–including one of the oddest Star Wars toy shops out there. Watch to see a Star Wars shop unlike any other!
Also on this week’s show, new toys are showing up in stores! With the impending premiere of Rebels on Disney XD stores are stocking up with tons of new Star Wars merchandise from chairs to Christmas ornaments to even a few new action figures! Listen to find out what’s hitting, as well as a brief review of the Toys R Us exclusive Jedi Reveal Rebels figure 3-pack.
But the biggest news last week was a new sixth-scale Star Wars figure line from high end Hong Kong company Hot Toys! Through Sideshow Collectibles, the first two figures have gone up for pre-order–Han Solo and Chewbacca. Join Arnie, who has over 50 Hot Toys in his collection, to hear his impressions of these new Star Wars collectibles!
With a look at the Disney Store original trilogy figure sets, Halloween themed Star Wars collectibles, a review of the Star Wars Lootcrate and more, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News podcast!
And for our next show we want your input! What is your Star Wars collectible holy grail? A screen-used prop? A carded Vlix? A replacement for the stuffed Ewok you used to own? Let us know in our voicemail at 415-508-JEDI and your call may be used on our next show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN433.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 432: A New Dawn for Star Wars Fiction
Last Spring it was announced that the Star Wars canon was taking a new direction. To pave way for the upcoming Episode VII as well as the Rebels TV series the previous Star Wars “Expanded Universe” was reclassified as Star Wars Legends, wiping the slate clean for a new era of Star Wars stories. That begins today with the release of A New Dawn, the Star Wars Rebels tie-in novel by John Jackson Miller. In this episode of Star Wars Action News Brock joins us with a review of this first novel in a new age of Star Wars fiction.
Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie review Hasbro’s 4th wave of Black Series 3.75-inch figures. From Dagobah Luke to Yoda to Toryn Farr, watch the video to see hands-on reviews of these collector-oriented figures!
With reports from Wizard World Chicago and GenCon, eating fresh with Rebels, and much more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN432.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 431: Exclusive Showdown
The irony of San Diego Comic-Con is that while everyone rushes to buy the exclusives, there’s no time at the con to really look at them! Now Marjorie and Arnie are back home and have unpacked their SDCC shipment, and are ready to tell you if Hasbro’s 6-Inch Jabba the Hut exclusive, or the SDCC/Toys R Us exclusive Cantina Showdown set, was worth the trouble.
Also on this week’s show Steve the Gingerprince reports in from the London Film and Comic Con. With a not-too-surprising number of Star Wars guests (given where Episode VII is filming) and tons of toys, listen in to find out about that European event.
With Johnathan telling us what’s hitting stores, a look at the Star Wars Celebration pin set, and more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN431.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Pre-Order Alert: eFX Collectibles Biker Scout Helmet and Pistol
Up for pre-order now from eFX Collectibles is their Legend Edition Scout Trooper Helmet & Pistol! This is described by eFX as “the most accurate reproduction of this incredible helmet produced to date.” The master molds for the helmet were made from the original master tools ILM used to make the helmets used for Return of the Jedi, and then an original ILM decal sheet was used to make the markings and symbols on the helmet. Finally the helmet is made in ABS, just like the on-screen prop helmets.
Additionally this helmet comes with a replica Biker Scout Pistol, cast from an original, screen-used prop!
The price is $899 and, limited to 500 pieces, this is sure to sell out fast. So if you want yours head to eFX’s web site now!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 12-inch Bomb Squad Clone Trooper
Continuing their pre-San Diego Comic-Con releases, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up a surprise pre-order: the 12-inch Bomb Squad Clone Trooper: Ordnance Specialist. They write:
Called in to protect Naboo from biological warfare, the Clone Ordnance Specialist boasts his trademark orange deco with shoulder insignia, and is fully equipped with everything he needs to get the job done, including blasters, backpack, and wire cutters for diffusing deadly virus bombs.
As an intergalactic conflict rages on, a massive army of Clone Troopers fights in service of the Republic.
This 1/6 scale figure comes with
- Fully Articulated Trooper Body
- Weathered Full Body Armor with Ordnance Specialist Marking Deco
- Detailed Phase I Helmet
- Backpack with Fabric Cover
- Two (2) Virus Bombs with extending Blue Shadow Virus Canisters
- Thirteen (13) Interchangeable hands including:
-Right and Left Fists
-Right and Left Trigger Hands
-Right and Left C-Grip Hands
-Right Salute Hand
-Left Thumbs up Hand
-Two (2) Left Pointer Hands
-One (1) Right Pointer Hand
-One (1) Left Virus Bomb Holding Hand
-One (1) Right Wire Clipper Holding Hand - One (1) Pair Standing Pose Feet
- One (1) Pair Action Pose Feet
- DC-15A Blaster Rifle with Optional Spear Attachment
- DC-15S Blaster Carbine
Star Wars Exclusive Action Figure at…WALGREENS?
If you follow Marvel Toy collecting then you know the community has been buzzing this week with Hasbro’s confirmation that the formerly-cancelled Agent Venom Marvel Legends figure will be released this August as an exclusive. More shocking was where the exclusive would be sold–Walgreens, the ubiquitous corner drug-store chain. This is the first time Walgreens has carried an exclusive Hasbro toy, but per our sources another may be coming very soon.
We received an e-mail with the included screenshot from a Walgreens system showing that there also is a Star Wars exclusive action figure coming to Walgreens. The listing reads “STAR WARS BOBA FETT EXCLUSIVE DISP” and is listed as “ACTION FIGURES/ACCESSRY”. The retail price shown is $19.99, which seems inexpensive for a Black Series 6-inch figure (given Walgreens inflated prices) but overpriced for a 3.75-inch figure.
Our source speculates it may be a repainted Boba Fett 6-inch, perhaps in the white McQuarrie colored armor, or perhaps with the Return of the Jedi markings. (Hasbro’s Darryl DePriest has said the intent was to have last year’s San Diego Comic-Con exclusive be the Boba Fett and the regular retail version have Return of the Jedi coloring).
The expected arrival date is listed as August 27, 2014–around the same time the Venom should be hitting the corner of happy & healthy.
We have reached out to our friends at Hasbro asking for confirmation. More news as we get it!
And, as always, all news is considered rumor until confirmed by Hasbro.
What do you want the figure to be? Let us know in the comments below!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 12-inch Cade Bane – Denal Disguise
Up for preorder now at Sideshow Collectibles is one of the most accessory-laden 12-inch Star Wars figures to date! From the Clone Wars series you can now order Cad Bane in Denal Disguise!
From the Season 2 Clone Wars episode “Cargo of Doom” Cad Bane donned the clone armor to infiltrate Anakin Skywalker’s ship. Now you can have this variant of the blue Duros bounty hunter.
But more than just swappable heads on the figure, this set comes with 13 different interchangable hands, action feet, two blasters, plus two different backpack types.
And if you hurry and order the exclusive version you also get a special Clone Denal themed figure stand.
This is up for order now at Sideshow’s site. So get yours while you can!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Exclusive Sixth Scale Wolfpack Clone Trooper
Sideshow Collectibles’ latest sixth scale figure is up for preorder – the Wolfpack Clone Trooper from the 104th Battalion!
Shipping this November, the figure comes with
- Fully Articulated Trooper Body
- Battle Weathered Full Body Armor with 104th Marking Deco
- Detailed Phase II Helmet with Wolfpack Deco
- JT-12 Jet Pack
- Backpack with Fabric Cover
- Thirteen (13) Interchangeable hands
- One (1) Pair Standing Pose Feet
- One (1) Pair Action Pose Feet
- DC-15A Blaster Rifle with Optional Spear Attachment
- DC-15S Blaster Carbine
- ‘Star Wars’ logo Base
- Base with Wolfpack Designation Artwork
So place your order now at Sideshow Collectibles!
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News Episode 424: Jabba in a Box!
In this episode the hosts of Star Wars Action News look at the Episode VII casting announcement, new toy offerings by Disney, report from the Toy Man Toy Show, and much more!
Star Wars Action News is back and with May the 4th behind us there is tons of collecting news to talk about. Sideshow Collectibles has released more than half a dozen new products in one-sixth, one-quarter, and full scales; Disney Stores have stocked up on exclusive figures, plushies, and statues, and Hasbro has revealed their San Diego Comic-Con Exclusive Jabba the Hutt! Listen as Marjorie and Arnie discuss all the latest news in this podcast.
Also on this show, Steve the Gingerprince hasn’t had much time to collect lately but he made up for it over May the 4th weekend at Star Wars Fun Days. Listen as he reports in on all the finds across the pond. And joining in also is Jerry with a look at pseudo-Vintage Star Wars items.
With a stand-ing report by Scott From Tulsa, a look at last weekend’s Toy Man Toy Show, collecting news from Star Wars Celebration Anaheim and reactions to the Episode VII casting news, it’s all in the latest Star Wars Action News podcast!
May the SALES Be With You!
It’s May the 4th time again, and what started as an internet joke has become a major marketing tool for Lucasfilm and their partners to offer discounts on Star Wars items, or release new, exclusive ones! With all the news that is going to be released on the 4th, keep checking back to this page as we update with all the sales info!
And do you know of a sale we missed? E-mail us the details at show@swactionnews.com
Toys and Statues
Entertainment Earth has two sales going on! May 4th only all in-stock Star Wars Action Figures are on sale! This includes older figures, comic packs, and the new Black Series figures in both 3.75-inch and 6-inch scales! But also at Entertainment Earth all week you can get Star Wars statues and busts for 20% off. This sale includes pre-orders so get your Kotobukiya Mara Jade or your Gentle Giant Padme, Yoda, and Holiday Special Boba Fett!
Not a sale, but Sideshow Collectibles unveiled a new life-sized Star Wars statue — Yoda. This is the third life-sized item recently, added to the Han Solo in Carbonite and Boba Fett statues.
Sideshow also put up for pre-order their exclusive 1/6 Scale R2-D2 Deluxe figure. The exclusive edition comes with 3 extra accessories – a saw arm, a laser welding arm, and a spacecraft linkage arm!
Amazon.com has all their FX Lightsabers for 37% off! This is good through May 10th. Plus keep your eye on Amazon for the Black Series 6-Inch Stormtrooper which has been popping in and out of stock.
LEGO.com has another exclusive minifigure for May 4th this year — Darth Revan from Knights of the Old Republic! He is free at Lego.com with a purchase of $75 or more. You can also get a free Star Wars LEGO poster with any Star Wars LEGO Purchase.
Midtown Comics has ALL their Star Wars statues, figures, and more for 20% off May 4th only.
Rancho Obi-Wanis offering, today only, 15% off all of their fixed-price eBay auctions!
Plus Star Wars Action News sponsor Brian’s Toys has added nearly 1,000 Vintage Figures to their web site, so if you’re wanting to complete your vintage Star Wars collection now is the time! And through May 18th you can get $15 off any order at Brian’s Toys $75 or more by using coupon code 4THBWU at checkout!
Books, Comics, and Video
Dark Horse comics is again having their digital May the 4th Megabundle. This is 150 digital Star Wars comics for just $100, including series like Crimson Empire, Dark Times, and the new Star Wars series! They also have a May the 4th Kids MegaBundle for only $30 which comprises 18 comics and small books aimed at younger readers.
With Star Wars Episode 7 coming out the Star Wars Insider will have plenty of new, exclusive content. And through May 5th you can get 20% off with a subscription plus a free, exclusive T-Shirt!
Amazon also has their Star Wars DVDs and Blu Rays on sale, including the Star Wars films and the five seasons of The Clone Wars.
Amazon’s Star Wars eBooks and eComics are also on sale with tons of graphic novels for 99 cents or $1.99 and dozens of novels at discount as well (even if most of them are Legends now).
Gus Lopez and Duncan Jenkins are having a sale on their Star Wars Collectors’ books! Throughout all of May you can purchase their Price Guide for only $25, or bundle it with their guide to Star Wars Prototypes for just $50.
Clothes
Her Universe is celebrating the day with 40% off most of their Star Wars items, plus unveiling new designs and a “mystery tee”
Also Think Geek is having 20% off most of their Star Wars items including a Han in Carbonite rug, Star Wars chopsabers, their Dark Roast Coffee, Hoodies, and so, so much more!
Cufflinks.com is having 37% off all their Star Wars items on May 4th only. They have a very cool, wide selection of ties, socks, money clips, and (shocker!) cufflinks!
Amazon has some exclusive REBELS T-Shirts as well.
Hot Topic has 20% off all their Star Wars items, which is mostly T-Shirts but also some stickers, posters, car accessories, and POP Vinyl figures.
For even more Star Wars T-Shirts We Love Fine has 25% off their Star Wars T-Shirts May 4th only with coupon code MAYTHEFOURTH14
Video Games and Tech
Steam has their Star Wars gaming bundle on sale for 2/3 off, getting you 14 classic Star Wars games, including ttlefront II, Jedi Knight 1 and 2, The Force Unleashed, Knights of the Old Republic, Dark Forces, and many more for $33.99.
Sony and Microsoft also both have sales on their digital console games on their respective online stores.
If you still have a need for thumb drives (or just like cute designs) Mimoco has 20% off all their Star Wars MIMOBOTs on May 4th only.
Misc
Super 7 has a new silkscreened 16 x 20 Darth Vader poster, limited to 200, available starting today.
Check back here as we will be updating the page all day long, and if there’s a sale of note that we missed e-mail us!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Jango Fett Sixth Scale Figure
He’s just a sixth-scale figure trying to make his way in the universe
It has been some time since Sideshow Collectibles put up for order a new Star Wars 12-inch scale figure. They previewed an upcoming sixth-scale Artoo Detoo, but then today they put up for pre-order a totally different figure: Jango Fett!
This villain from Attack of the Clones is loaded with accessories and detail. With a fully articulated body and a detailed flight suit including the “durasteel” Armored Vest, Thigh, Knee, Shin, and Boot armor, he also has a belt with pouches, a dual holster belt, left and right gaultnets, boots, a poncho, two Jetpacks, and more! Plus he comes with two Blaster Pistols and a Kamino Saber Dart! Also, the blasters and jet packs have flare attachments for a more action-oriented display.
And if you order the Sideshow Exclusive Edition today you get a swap-out head, showing Jango Fett unmasked, wearing his pilot’s head gear!
This figure is available for pre-order now for $219.99, and payment plans available as low as $73.33 per month, so head to Sideshow Collectibles and get yours now!
Why Now is the Time To Order Your Kotobukiya Mara Jade Statue
News was revealed last Friday on StarWars.com that the Star Wars Expanded Universe is no longer canonical. As discussed on the Star Wars Action News podcast covering C2E2 2014, the previous Star Wars continuity is being rebranded “Legends”. Now a new Star Wars canon begins, with only the six Star Wars films and The Clone Wars TV Series considered gospel.
This turns 23 years of novels, beginning with Timothy Zahn’s Heir to the Empire into an extended “what if” scenario. Chewbacca was no longer killed by a moon. Luke was never Lando’s wingman on the latter man’s quest for a wife. Princess Leia never had three children (two of whom were later killed).
And this also means Luke Skywalker never met, married, and had a child with Mara Jade. More, Jade never existed. All the retcons of this Force-strong female working in secret for the Emperor, infiltrating Jabba’s palace, and later murdered by her nephew, are all now an alternate take on what happens in the Star Wars universe.
With this rebranding all future Star Wars fiction, from books to comics to movies to video games, is being monitered by a Lucasfilm Story Group. Some characters and events can be cherry picked from the “Legends” timeline if future creators wish, but as of today we face a new Star Wars where Mara Jade is not only dead, she never existed at all.
Which is why I placed my order today for the Kotobukiya Mara Jade Bishoujo Statue. And I highly suggest you do the same. Plus, if you haven’t already, get Kotobukiya’s first Star Wars Bishoujo statue, Jaina Solo.
I have asked the reps at Kotobukiya about the Mara Jade statue on several occasions, most recently in February at New York Toy Fair 2014. It was at that event that Hasbro Vice President Daryl DePriest mentioned that his company was no longer allowed by Lucasfilm to make or rerelease characters from the Star Wars Expanded Universe. Given that stance I have been worried that Kotobukiya’s second Star Wars Bishoujo statue may never see the light of day.
Now scheduled for release within the next 30 days I do now believe Kotobukiya’s Mara Jade will be released. However, given the character’s deep love in the community (the well-known Star Wars book site Club Jade, is named after her), I now think this statue will sell very quickly.
The Jaina Solo Bishoujo statue sold out from resellers and the price went up considerably on the secondary market. Realizing the demand for that statue Kotobukiya produced another run and she is now priced at $49.95 shipped on Amazon.
But with the new status quo of the Star Wars Expanded Universe, wiping both of these characters away, I wonder:
1) Once these statues sell out, would Kotobukiya choose to do another run for a character that’s removed from continuity?
2) If Kotobukiya chose to make more of these statues, would Lucasfilm allow them to continue to manufacture non-canonical characters? (Especially given that Hasbro cannot?)
3) If these statues, especially Mara Jade, become as rare and coveted as I expect, what will happen to their prices on the secondary market?
Once before Kotobukiya produced a Bishoujo statue they were not allowed to make another run of–DC Comics’ Catwoman. That statue, that originally retailed for about $65, is now over $200 on eBay. I can certainly see a similar fate for Mara Jade.
And that is why I placed my order today, to ensure I received a Mara Jade statue from Kotobukiya’s first shipment, securing her place in my collection. The Expanded Universe may reboot, but my fandom of those characters continues, and I want them represented in my Star Wars display.
If you are fans of these characters, I suggest you do the same and order your Mara Jade today!
Do you agree? Disagree? Will you be ordering the Mara Jade? Let me know in the comments below!
Today Only: 30% Off Select Gentle Giant Jumbo Figures at Entertainment Earth
Entertainment Earth is having a sale today only on Gentle Giant Jumbo figure from The Empire Strikes Back! Right now is the time to save big on Hoth Outfit Han Solo and Zuckuss (who really should be named 4-LOM if it’s a vintage reproduction, but it is what it is).
These figures normally retail for $79.99 but until 11:59pm PST on Monday, April 28, they are only $56.00 each at Entertainment Earth!
Update – Chewbacca out of Wave 4 Case, Stormtrooper, Boba Fett Back in
Chewbacca will no longer be part of Hasbro’s Star Wars 6-Inch Black Series figure line. The Episode III Obi-Wan figure is also no longer included. Instead the wave will include carry-forwards of the hard to find 6-inch Boba Fett and Stormtrooper figures.
We first reported the rumor that Wave 4 of Hasbro’s 6-Inch Black Series action figure line may not have Chewie included. This wave was originally solicited as three new fligures (Chewbacca, Anakin Skywalker, and a Clone Trooper) plus one carry-forward (the truly awful Episode III Obi-Wan Kenobi, watch our review of this figure on Star Wars Action News Episode 421). Per the rumor, Lucasfilm did not like Chewie’s hunched pose in the small window box and the figure may be delayed until the new blue and black, taller window box was used.
Now DorksideToys.com has revealed that rumor was true, Chewbacca will not be included in Wave 4. Instead of Chewbacca and Ob-Wan Hasbro has included the two hardest to find figures in this line: Boba Fett and the Stormtrooper. Clearly this will help fans get these figures at retail pricing. With the Stormtrooper and Clone Trooper in this wave it’s possible Boba Fett may even become common as troop builders, buying multiples of just those two figures, leave droves of the bounty hunter behind.
Are you excited by this change, or upset at Chewbacca’s delay? Let us know in the comments below!
Star Wars Collecting: A discounted Boba Fett, Sideshow’s Savage Opress, and a Life Sized Han in Carbonite
Star Wars Collectors have three new items to check out today!
The first two come from Sideshow Collectibles as they continue their high end line of Star Wars memorabilia. First up is a new Premium Format Figure — Savage Opress. As seen in The Clone Wars cartoon series, Savage is the Zabrack brother of Darth Maul. Transformed into an unstoppable killing machine by Nightsister magic this character has been everything–Sith apprentice, rogue assassin, loyal brother, and more. And now you can own this reproduction of the character in 1/4 scale. Standing over 21-inches tall, weighing 15 pounds, this statue can stand alone or compliment Sideshow’s previous Darth Maul Premium Format Release.
But for the big spenders out there, Sideshow also has quite the trophy for your collection: A life sized Han Solo in Carbonite. Icons’ version of this piece has been sought by collectors for nearly two decades, but now Sideshow has rendered that older piece obsolete. Standing on a platform that recreates Cloud City’s carbon freeze chamber, with a light up side panels and rear power canister, this is quite simply the most accurate prop replica ever made of this piece. Standing 7.5 feet tall this is a true centerpiece for Star Wars collectors.
But after two high priced items, how about a bargain? Today only (April 10, 2014) Entertainment Earth has on sale the Boba Fett: A good Day to Die Giclee Print from Acme Archives. This art print is 19-inches tall and 13-inches wide and was limited to only 50 prints worldwide. From artist William Silvers this print has artistic flourishes that accent the artistic nature of the print while also showing the bounty hunter in all his glory. It’s 34% off, only $95, until midnight tonight so order yours now!
RUMOR: Could Chewbacca Delay 6-Inch Black Series Wave 4?
Could Hasbro have a problem with Chewbacca? That is the word that comes to us from a reliable source in the UK. Please note everything in this article should be taken as rumor until confirmation from Hasbro.
At Toy Fair International 2014 Hasbro announced the new package for the Star Wars Black Series figures. At the time they said the new box with the larger window area allowed for inclusion of taller figures into the line, such as Darth Vader and, yes, Chewbacca. But even with the new box design the Chewbacca figure, based on actor Peter Mayhew’s 7′ 2″ height, had to be squeezed in, his knees and legs bent to fit in the space allotted. As Han Solo might say “I don’t think they had wookiees in mind when they designed her.”
Per our source, this odd posturing of Solo’s hirsute companion had originally been approved by Hasbro’s partners at Lucasfilm Licensing, but now they have reconsidered and dictated that Hasbro needs to find another way to let the wookiee in.
Chewbacca was intended to be one of three new figures in Wave 4 of this action figure line, along with an Episode II Clone Trooper and Episode III Anakin Skywalker. That wave was expected to ship to stores and online retailers in the next 2 months. Per our source, that wave may now need to be delayed.
However, this may end up being good news for Star Wars collectors. Rather than delay the entire wave, our source tells us that they may ship Wave 4 as planned, but replace Chewbacca with an older figure in the line, and the top two choices being considered are Wave 2’s Boba Fett and Wave 3’s Stormtrooper. Both figures have been difficult to find at retail and secondary market prices have been high, so a rerelease of either figure would be welcome relief for struggling Star Wars fans.
Once more, all of this is unconfirmed rumor at this time, but we wanted to make you aware as soon as we could. Obviously the final news will be known if/when this wave is delayed, reconfigured, or if Chewbacca shows up in a radically different pose than Hasbro’s pre-release promotional photos.
Got any news? E-mail us at show@swactionnews.com!
Preorder Alert: Star Wars Geonosis Infantry Battle Droids by Sideshow
Battle Droids – the canon fodder of the Separatist Army! On Naboo they killed countless Gungans, but on Geonosis they faced a more fierce enemy–Jedi. Through sheer numbers these red-plated war machines fought a pitched battle in the arena before the war spread across the planet, then across the galaxy!
Now Sideshow Collectibles gives you a chance to add these military to your 1/6 scale figure collection–2 at a time! Up for pre-order now is the Geonosis Infantry Battle Droid Figure Set. For just $129.99 you get 2 12-inch Battle Droid figures, each with a unique battle-hardened paint deco. Each has an E-5 Blaster Rifle and a communication backpack with extendable antenna.
After a steady increase in cost of 12-inch figures from Sideshow, this set comes out to $65 per figure–a welcome return to the pricing found early on in the line. And at this price you can army build to your heart’s content! So put in your preorder now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Also up for order now is the Geonosis Commander Battle Droid. While this is one droid alone for the $129.99 price, this one comes with the yellow markings of a commander droid, and a special accessory–a light up “holographic” Count Dooku! The droid also comes with an E-5 Blaster and backpack communications array.
the Captain Rex Sixth Scale figure–exclusive edition! This Phase II version of the Clone Wars hero has battle-damaged armor, a removable helmet to show the clone’s face underneath, and an exceedingly detailed paint job on the helmet with Rex’s kill count drawn on. He also comes with 13, yes thirteen, interchangable hands, two pairs of interchangable feet, and he’s armed to the hilt with a droid popper, 2 DC-17 hand blasters, a DC-15S Blaster Carbine. Finally, if you hurry to get the exclusive edition you also get the special Captain Rex Display Base not available with the regular edition.But where there are battle droids there must be clones to fight, so finally Sideshow has also put up for order
All these are up for order now at Sideshow’s site!
Save on Gentle Giant Jumbo “Vintage” Figures — Today Only
Gentle Giant’s Vintage Jumbo Figures have been a huge hit with Star Wars collectors. These figures are blown-up versions of Kenner’s vintage Star Wars figures, digitally scanned and recreated at a 12-inch size.
If you’ve been hunting for a bargain on some of these today is a great day to stock up as Entertainment Earth’s One Day Sale today is entirely focused on these large figures. More, all the figures available are fan-favorite bounty hunters from The Empire Strikes Back. Dengar, Bossk, IG-88, and 4-LOM, all are available right now for only $52 each at Entertainment Earth.
Also if you like to display your Jumbo Figures loose, the Mos Eisley Cantina Jumbo Kenner Playset is also only $52.00 today, 42% off its normal $88.99 price.
These sales end tonight at midnight, and may sell out long before then, so get yours now at Entertainment Earth!
eFX Collectibles UNLEASHES Star Wars Incinerator Trooper Helmet Replica
Available now and coming out of the blue is eFX Collectibles’ latest prop replica — The Force Unleashed Incinerator Trooper Helmet.
This helmet is exclusive to CozmicToys.com and is limited to 501 pieces worldwide.
This PCR helmet is one of the lower detail “stunt” replicas made by eFX, but that also keeps the price very low at only $199.99 plus shipping. Having seen many of these PCR helmets in person they have a great displayability that far exceeds their cost.
So if you’re interested in this order yours now at Cozmic Toys!
Sideshow makes Star Wars collectors choose the color of Han Solo’s coat.
The color of Han Solo’s jacket on Hoth seems to endlessly be a bane for collectors. Depending on the lighting, the lens filter, and the shot, sometimes in The Empire Strikes Back Han’s coat looks decidely brown. In other shots, it’s blue. Collectors often seem to side towards blue, their memories influenced by Kenner’s Hoth Han Solo figure with its striking blue coat. But as the years have passed the question kept coming up, wiht some Hoth Han Solos using a blue/brown color to split the difference, and Hasbro even releasing variants of the same figure with two colored coats.
But now for high-end 1/6 scale figure collectors a choice must be made–indecision will be costly. Continuing their line of Hoth themed Star Wars figures, Sideshow has put up for order today Captain Han Solo in Hoth gear. But there are three versions of this figure being released!
The primary figure is Han Solo in Brown Hoth Coat. This is not currently listed on Sideshow’s site (presumably it will be available through Sideshow authorized resellers in the regular version), but from Sideshow comes this exclusive version which has a swap-out head giving you the choice to display Han with or without his headgear on. So that is two versions–Brown Coat regular edition, and Brown Coat Sideshow Exclusive Edition.
But, in the words of the infomercials, “Wait, there’s more!” There is also another version of the figure that is also exclusive to Sideshow Collectible–Hoth Han Solo with Blue Coat. This figure also has the same swap-out head as the Sideshow Exclusive Brown Coat figure, it’s the same figure in every way, save that the coat is now blue.
Both figures, Blue Coat or Brown, have
- Two heads – with and without Headgear
- Two cscarves
- Belt with blaster holster and droid caller
- Sculpted boots
- Binoculars accessory with fabric strap
- Life Scanner accessory with both retracted and extended antennae
- DL-44 Blaster (Han version)
- Four pairs of hands for swap-out
- Sculpted snow environment Base
At $199 per figure buying both is a costly option. So let us know in our forums, will you be buying the Blue Coat Han, the Brown Coat Han, or both?
New Podcast: Episode 413: 2013 Year In Review Part 2 – Statues, Books, LEGO, and More!
Note: Star Wars Action News’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.
In 2013 Gentle Giant had the Admiral Ackbar Magnitude bust, Sideshow Collectibles had Premium Format Figures from The Force Unleashed and The Old Republic video games, and LEGO sold a Fury-Class Interceptor from The Old Republic. In short, for Star Wars collecting companies the universe expanded last year. In this episode of the Star Wars Action News podcast join Arnie, Marjorie, Nathan, Brock, Steve, and Jerry as they look back on the strange and interesting year where companies tried to find a footing marketing Star Wars while biding their time until Episode VII in 2015! We look back on the books, busts, statues, 1/6 scale figures, LEGO sets and so much more in this new video-enhanced Star Wars Action News podcast!
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN413.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Press Release: Marvel to Publish Star Wars Comics & Graphic Novels
UPDATE 12:16PM CST: Dark Horse has released their own Press Release. It is printed below the Marvel Press Release.
Graphics added by Venganza Media; not part of original press releases.
Marvel Press Release:
DISNEY’S LUCASFILM AND MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT JOIN FORCES TO PUBLISH STAR WARS™ COMICS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS
Jedi, Sith, and the rest of the Star Wars Universe Come to Marvel Comics in 2015
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (January 3, 2014) – The Walt Disney Company’s Lucasfilm Ltd. and Marvel Entertainment are joining forces to bring new Star Wars adventures to readers across the galaxy, with Marvel granted exclusive rights to create and publish Star Wars comics and graphic novels beginning in 2015.
The agreement marks a homecoming for the Star Wars comic books. Marvel Comics published the first Star Wars comic book, Star Wars #1, in March 1977, which went on to sell more than 1 million copies. Marvel Comics published its Star Wars series for nine years. In 1991, Dark Horse Comics took over the license, publishing fan-favorite titles like Dark Empire and Star Wars: Legacy. Last year, Dark Horse released The Star Wars #1, an adaptation of George Lucas’ original rough-draft screenplay for the film, garnering rave reviews and national media attention and ranking among the top-selling Star Wars comics of all time.
“Dark Horse Comics published exceptional Star Wars comics for over 20 years, and we will always be grateful for their enormous contributions to the mythos, and the terrific partnership that we had,” said Carol Roeder, director of Lucasfilm franchise publishing, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “In 2015, the cosmic adventures of Luke, Han, Leia and Chewbacca will make the lightspeed jump back to Marvel, to begin a new age of adventures within the Star Wars universe.”
“We here at Marvel could not be more excited to continue the publication of Star Wars comic books and graphic novels,” said Marvel Worldwide Publisher and President, Dan Buckley. “The perennial brand of Star Wars is one of the most iconic in entertainment history and we are honored to have the opportunity to bring our creative talent pool to continue, and expand Star Wars into galaxies far, far away.”
“We’re incredibly excited by this next chapter in the Star Wars saga,” said Andrew B. Sugerman, executive vice president of Disney Publishing Worldwide. “Bringing together the iconic Lucasfilm and Marvel brands to tell new stories will allow us to continue to thrill lovers of the original Star Wars comic books and entertain generations to come.”
Marvel has continued to push comic book publishing forward with innovations and experiments like motion comics and digital-only releases, in addition to its deep, ongoing catalog of monthly series and graphic novels created by some of the industry’s most gifted artists and writers.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © 2013 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
About Marvel Entertainment, LLC
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information, visit marvel.com.
About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM 2013 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
About Disney Publishing Worldwide
Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines with over 700 million products sold each year. DPW consists of an extensive worldwide licensing structure as well as vertically integrated publishing imprints, including Disney Book Group in the U.S. and Disney Libri in Italy. DPW publishes a range of children’s magazines globally, as well as Disney kids magazines in the U.S. Disney English is DPW’s English language learning business, which includes Disney English learning centers in China and a worldwide retail-licensing program. DPW’s digital products include bestselling eBook titles as well as original apps. Headquartered in Glendale, California, DPW publishes books, magazines, and digital products in 85 countries in 75 languages. For more information visit www.disneypublishing.com.
Dark Horse Press Release:
The End of an Era
All things come to pass. So too, do all licensed deals. I am sad to report that Disney, the new owner of Lucasfilm, has notified us here at Dark Horse of their intention to move the Star Wars publishing license to another of their recent acquisitions, Marvel Comics, beginning in 2015. This will end a partnership that has lasted more than two decades.
For those who are new to the industry, Dark Horse revolutionized the treatment of comics based on films. After a history of movie properties being poorly handled with little regard for execution and continuity, Dark Horse took a new approach, carefully choosing licenses and approaching them with excitement and creative energy. Our goal was to create sequels and prequels to the films we loved, paying careful attention to quality and detail, essentially treating those films as though they were our own. Star Wars has been the crown jewel of this approach. We began chasing the title as far back as 1989, and with the launch of Tom Veitch and Cam Kennedy’s Dark Empire, a new era in comics was born. I’m not ashamed to admit that we were Star Wars geeks, and we have been determined to spare neither effort nor expense in the pursuit of excellence.
It is ironic that this announcement comes at a time when Dark Horse is experiencing its most successful year ever. For obvious reasons, we have prepared for this eventuality by finding new and exciting projects to place on our schedule for 2015 and beyond. Will they take the place of Star Wars? That’s a tall order, but we will do our best to make that happen. In the meantime, 2014 may be our last year at the helm of the Star Wars comics franchise, but we plan to make it a memorable one. We know that fans of the franchise will expect no less. The Force is with us still.
Mike Richardson
About Dark Horse
Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent such as Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Geof Darrow, Guillermo Del Toro and comics legends such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko, Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties such as The Mask, Ghost, Captain Midnight, and X. Its successful line of comics, books, and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Halo, Serenity, The Legend of Zelda, Game of Thronesand Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.
Venganza Media Now Offering Video Podcasts for Star Wars Action News & Marvelicious Toys
In 2005 I started Star Wars Action News, the first podcast focused solely on Star Wars collecting. Our first podcasts were rough, but from that first episode I was focused on improving, both in terms of content and in terms of technology. We focused on improving our audio quality, and our photography, eventually setting up a photo studio and going from consumer grade to professional DSLR cameras.
But by 2008 listeners started telling us about a new podcast format offered by Apple – the enhanced M4A file. This new podcast type allowed broadcasters to insert chapter markers in our shows, and to have a constantly updating slideshow. For a show focused on collecting this seemed like a must-have, but there was a barrier: this was Apple only. To make an enhanced podcast required a Mac computer, and then the enhanced podcast could only be viewed on an iPod, iPhone, or in Quicktime software.
Still, thanks to the help of our staff, specifically Kevin Gawthrope who enhanced our show every week for the first year, and then Berent Lawton who has tirelessly enhanced our shows for five years–four of which he was the only enhancer.
The result was an instant success–the enhanced podcast was downloaded 10-times more than the audio-only MP3, and one listener, Fernanda, actually crashed her car due to the detailed images included in our enhanced podcast review of Master Replicas’ Millennium Falcon. We were the first enhanced Star Wars podcast, and in the years since while podcasts about Star Wars toys have proliferated only one other to my knowledge offers an enhanced podcast.
Then in 2010 we added to the roster including an enhanced podcast version of Marvelicious Toys, offering listeners the only enhanced podcast dedicated completely to Marvel toy collecting. For collecting shows it seems that having images synched with the audio would be required, but in my experience only one other podcast that even discusses Marvel toys (and it is only a small portion of their content) is enhanced.
But now I do imagine the number of enhanced podcasts will actually decrease rather than increase, for in the past 5 years Apple has started to deprecate the M4A format. Early versions of the iPad would not show enhanced images. Then in iTunes 11 Apple buried the ability to view the enhanced images. Finally, in GarageBand version 10 chapter settings were removed that made enhancing podcasts a reality.
The writing was on the wall–the Apple enhanced M4A will eventually disappear completely. These changes to Apple’s software has already led many listeners to think our enhanced podcasts were discontinued, all due to Apple’s software “upgrades.”
But our desire at Venganza Media to continue to improve, both in content and technology, has continued. Firstly, we do not want to be caught unprepared when the M4A file dies completely. But equally important, at the same time as Apple slowly kills the enhanced podcast format listeners are also moving away from Apple. Our site statistics show a significant increase in listeners coming in through Android and Windows phones and tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy, the HTC One, and Microsoft Surface.
Why should Apple users have all the fun?
So starting today, January 1, 2014, the team at Venganza Media is converting all our enhanced podcasts to video podcasts. That’s right, each week Venganza Media will now be putting out at least 1 hour of video content, delivered in 720p HD!
We have worked for weeks to find the perfect MP4 encoding that works on Apple, Windows, and Android devices. These video shows will continue to have chapter markers for the devices which support that technology. Additionally, these shows will enable us to have dynamic, moving pictures and, when the item warrants it, video recordings adding a totally new, dynamic element to our shows. We do know that with any change are some trade-offs–these video podcasts will be about twice the size of our normal enhanced podcast resulting in a longer download time and a bit more use of space on your phone or tablet, but we hope that our listeners will agree these are minor downsides compared to the ability to offer HD video. Additionally, for those who cannot view HD video or do not want the additional file size, audio-only copies will continue to be available (as they always have been for non-Apple users).
None of this would be possible without the effort of the podcast enhancing/video editing team of Berent, Andrew Harrison, Shane Rossman, and Daryl Whitlow. Supporting this effort also is Marvelicious Toys graphic designer Justin Kozisek and Star Wars Action News graphic designer Chris Klink, who will be redesigning our logos for the new HD format.
As with any new technology we fully anticipate a learning curve, and we appreciate you sticking with us as we adopt this new technology. Know that we do it to provide you with a more entertaining and informative show to help you collect better!
The first video podcast is now available, Marvelicious Toys Episode 106. You can view that now at marvelicioustoys.com
Thank you for listening to our show, and we look forward to brining you great audio and video content in 2014! We are very excited by what this will mean for our coverage of New York Toy Fair in February, 2014–just don’t watch it while driving!
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