Venganza Media Gazette

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SOLD OUT: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.

Hot Toys Captain America - Golden Age Suit - MOVIE PROMO Version

Yesterday we announced Sideshow Collectibles has offered the Captain America – Golden Age Suit Movie Promo Version of the figure.  Today we have to announce that this figure sold out in less than 24 hours.   The figure is now going for over $400 on eBay, versus the $209.99 retail price.

As mentioned in yesterday’s article, Hot Toys’ Movie Promo Versions of figures are highly limited, soar in price on the secondary market, and thus are snatched up by collectors and speculators alike.  With Captain America selling out even faster than the previous Movie Promo Iron Man Mark VII this seems to be increasing.

But if you want this Captain America in his classic suit, needed if you want to recreate the climactic battle from The Winter Soldier film, all hope is not lost.  Sideshow has opened the Wait List on this item.  But do not hesitate–Wait List orders are filled first come first serve.

Sideshow’s Wait List allows collectors who missed out on a piece to hopefully score one due to cancelled orders, credit card declines, or unexpected stock increases.  But the earlier you get on the Wait List the greater your chances of actually getting this piece at retail price and not having to scour eBay for it.

So do not delay.  If you even think you want this figure, head to Sideshow now to get on the Wait List.  And remember with future exclusive and Movie Promo Version Hot Toys–a preorder made is a hundred dollars saved.

March 27, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on SOLD OUT: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.

Preorder Alert: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.

Hot Toys Captain America - Golden Age Suit - MOVIE PROMO Version

Captain America: The Winter Soldier opens in theaters April 4th, but Hot Toys is letting Marvel collectors get their orders in now for one-sixth scale figures represented in the film!

First up for order was the Black Widow Movie Masterpiece Series figure, and today Sideshow Collectibles has offered the Captain America – Golden Age Suit Movie Promo Version of the figure.

The movie-accurate collectible figure is specially crafted based on the image of Chris Evans as Captain America in his “Golden Age” suit from the film. Featuring a brand new helmeted head sculpt, newly developed body with tailored costume and a specially made metal circular Captain America shield with distressed effect.

The outfit, despite being based on the outfit seen in Captain America: The First Avenger is markedly different, with a new red stripe down the middle and other detailing that makes this figure not even close to a rerelease of that previous Hot Toys offering.

With this figure you get a new helmeted head sculpt, wnd each head sculpt is specially hand-painted to depict a movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture. Below the neck Cap has a newly developed body with over 30 points of articulation, nine pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:
– One (1) pair of relaxed palms
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of palms for holding shield
– One (1) pair open palm
– One (1) pointing right palm

Cap’s costume has:

-One (1) dark blue and grayish-white uniform with red and white stripes on midsection and star emblems on chest and arms
-One (1) pair of dark blue, gray, and red suspenders
-One (1) pair of dark blue pants
-One (1) brown leather-like belt with pouches
-One (1) pair of brown boots

Plus you get Captain America’s iconic shield with distressed effect and a figure stand with Captain America nameplate and the movie logo.

And I cannot stress enough, this is the Movie Promo Version of the figure, emaning it is limited worldwide. In the US this is limited to Sideshow Collectibles, and internationally only available at various conventions and shows. The previous Movie Promo Figures, like the Avengers’ Iron Man Battle Damaged Mark VII, have sold out quickly and been very hard to find, and expensive, on the secondary market. So don’t delay, hurry to Sideshow and order yours now!

March 26, 2014 Posted by | Marvelicious Toys, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Preorder Alert: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.

New Podcast: Issue 113: Don’t You Know That You’re Toxin

Boomerang. Spider-Girl. Toxin. The three figures together make up the new offerings from Hasbro’s second wave of Amazing Spider-Man 2 Marvel Legends, and they are hitting pegs now in force! On this Marvelicious Toys episode your hosts Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie provide in-depth reviews of each of these new swap-out figures and compare them to their previous versions!Also on this episode Marjorie and Arnie recount last weekend’s Planet Comicon in Kansas City. With Marvel guests like Skottie Young and Dave Johnson, as well as tons of vendors, listen to find out about the going rates for figures, as well as some unique and rare finds!With a look at Hot Toys’ new Captain America Movie Masterpiece Series figures, excitement over The Avengers 2–Age of Ultron, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and so much more, it’s all in this episode of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT113.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 26, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 113: Don’t You Know That You’re Toxin

New Podcast: Issue 112: A Glutton for Punisher

Sideshow Collectibles latest Marvel Comics Premium Format Figure is arriving on doorsteps–The Punisher in his Classic Costume! It’s the second version of this comic killer in Sideshow’s quarter scale line. How does it compare to the original release and should you order one? The answers are in this week’s podcast.Also in this week’s show, the second wave of Captain America Marvel Legends are hitting pegs, and selling out. The Black Widow is going for as high as $80 on Amazon and eBay. What would make this figure so valuable to collectors, and are they worth the hunt? Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin review Captain America, the Winter Soldier, Black Widow, and the Mandroid on this show!With a look at the Thor: The Dark World home video release hoopla, Geof looking at EZHobi’s Marvel Cinematic Universe collectibles, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys video and audio podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT112.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 12, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 112: A Glutton for Punisher

Pre-Order Alert! HOT TOYS Black Widow from Captain America: The Winter Soldier

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The next film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, has fans very excited.  With Steve Rogers fighting the metal-armed Winter Soldier, plus Marvel heroes Nick Fury, Black Widow, and The Falcon all  along for the ride, fans are excited and the Hasbro toys are flying off the store shelves.  Now Hong Kong based toy company Hot Toys has put up for pre-order their first release from this new film — Natasha Romanoff as the Black Widow.

Featuring a new likeness of actress Scarlet Johansson, updated for her appearance in Winter Soldier with movie-accurate facial expression, straight real fabric hair, and movie-accurate make-up.  The body has over 28 points of articulation, and the outfit has buckles with boots, leather-like trims, and belts with holsters on the thighs.

More, this piece is loaded with accessories, including 9 interchangable cloved palms, two pistols, 2 sets of Widow’s Bite bracelets (with and without shock effect) , a mobile phone, and a Hot Toys Black Widow base.

The previous Hot Toys Black Widow figures have jumped in price on the secondary market, even the lower-detailed Iron Man 2  version.  So don’t miss out on this new Hot Toys figure, order yours now from Sideshow Collectibles — the only authorized Hot Toys reseller in the United States!

 

March 11, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert! HOT TOYS Black Widow from Captain America: The Winter Soldier

TODAY ONLY – 35% Off Bowen Statues at EE

hellcat Hobgoblin

Entertainment Earth’s daily deal specials have resulted in some insanely low prices on hot collectibles.  They’re always worth checking out, especially today!  Marvel Collectibles get the spotlight as for Saturday, March 8 only Entertainment Earth is offering 35% off two cool Bowen statues.

The first is Hobgoblin.  This orange costumed Spider-Man baddie is a classic comic book nemesis.  This piece, standing 13-inches tall, shows him ready for action, holding a pumpkin bomb.  Of course, with his cape in that condition there’s already been a few explosions already!

The second statue on special is the lesser known Avenger and Defender Hellcat!  Standing 12-inches tall in her yellow outfit this statue is one of the finest representations of this hero ever!

But again these sales are for today only, so don’t delay–head to Entertainment Earth and get yours now!

March 8, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on TODAY ONLY – 35% Off Bowen Statues at EE

New Podcast: Issue 111: Toy Fair 2014 – LEGO, 3A, Kotobukiya, Funko, and more from Javits!

LEGO MODOK. Need we say more? Okay, LEGO Guardians of the Galaxy! Three A Dr. Doom figures! Kotobukiya’s Avengers Assembled. Ghost Rider Labbits. So much Marvel goodness was on display last week at New York City’s Javits Center for Toy Fair International, and on this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie run down the hot new items you’ll want to collect!Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! The audio version of our show is also still available. Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT111.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 26, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 111: Toy Fair 2014 – LEGO, 3A, Kotobukiya, Funko, and more from Javits!

Thor: The Dark World hits DVD, Blu-Ray, and Digital Today

Thor: The Dark World comes out on Blu-ray today.

Benefiting from the “Avengers bump”, coming 18 months after that 1.5 billion grossing hit, Thor: The Dark World has become the third highest grossing film in the Avengers series.

But with the home video release fans must make a choice.  Continuing the unfortunate, but common, practice of splitting bonus features across multiple exclusive retailers fans have to choose which features are worth their dollars.

The Blu-ray is available in two editions, a single-disc 2-D version, or a multi-format 2 -disc version which includes the movie in 2-D, a 3-D Blu-ray copy of the film, and a code for a HD Digital download of the film through iTunes or UltraViolet.

Both Blu-ray releases have the same basic set of bonus features:  Extended and Deleted scenes (including an extended celebration scene, more with the dark elves, and Jane learning about the aether), gag reel, the 30 minute featurette “A Brothers’ Journey: Thor & Loki”, and a look at “Scoring Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World” with composer Brian Tyler.  Of most interest to Avengers film fans are likely the audio commentary with Director Alan Taylor, Producer Kevin Feige, and fan-favorite actor Tom Hiddleston, as well as an exclusive look at April’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier.  

Also of note is the film short called All Hail the King.  Since the release of Captain America: The First Avenger on Blu-ray Marvel has included short features that help tie the Marvel cinematic universe together.  With All Hail the King however Marvel has taken it to the next level, bringing back acclaimed, award-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley to reprise his role as Trevor–the fake Mandarin from Iron Man 3.  Given that character’s polarizing response among Marvel’s film fans this follow up should be of great interest to see how Feige caps off the story of this comic relief actor/villain from last May’s Iron Man film.  The description of the short is:  After the events of Marvel’s Iron Man 3, Trevor Slattery is an infamous icon. He’s also locked up in a high-security prison. Luckily, his newfound profile has brought him celebrity and protection on the inside – and the actor has gladly agreed to an in-depth profile with a documentary filmmaker

But then brick and mortar retailers Best Buy, Target, and Walmart all have exclusive versions of Thor on Blu-ray, and digital sites iTunes and Amazon have exclusive features as well.

Best Buy has the 3D film in a gorgeous steelbook case.  The only difference here is packaging, but steelbook collectors will certainly want to check this version out.

Target has an exclusive Loki O-Sleeve over the Blu-ray.  Again, there is no new content on the discs (in the past Target has often included an extra disc with bonus features), but you do also get one month exclusive access to Marvel Unlimited, allowing you to read digital comics for free on your computer, phone, or tablet.

Walmart is the only brick and mortar to have a version with exclusive bonus features.  Through the VUDU service Walmart customers can view a bonus featurette “Loki: The God of Mischief.”  This includes a look at Hiddelston’s 2013 appearance at San Diego Comic-Con International where he appeared on stage in the full Loki costume.

Amazon also has a digital exclusive through their Amazon Instant Video service.  This bonus content looks at the visual effects work that went into making Thor: The Dark World.

Finally iTunes offers a bonus featurette looking at the comic book origins of the Dark Elves, Algrim the Kursed, and how these bad guys transitioned from the page to the big screen.

Fortunately if you want one of the physical discs you can likely get the iTunes bonus content as well.  On Star Trek Into Darkness and other Blu-ray films with iTunes digital copies the exclusive iTunes bonus content is able to be viewed as well.  I will update this article later with confirmation that this is still the case with Thor: The Dark World.

For those without a Blu-Ray player, a bare bones DVD release is also available.  Disney did not include a DVD with the multi-format Blu-ray release forcing those without a Blu-ray player to buy either an additional version or a version with no bonus features.  Cover variation collectors be aware – the DVD version has a red stripe down the spine, the Blu-Ray version has a blue stripe.

 

 

 

You can hear our review of Thor: The Dark World as well as the other Avengers films at NowPlayingPodcast.com

 

 

February 25, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

New Podcast: Issue 110: Toy Fair 2014 – Hasbro Reveals!

What new Marvel comics action figures will we be drooling over in 2014? Hasbro tells us in their 2014 Toy Fair presentation! Marvel Legends and 3.75-inch figure lines based on the comics and movies will be coming out this year, plus tons of other toys for kids and collectors alike! Spider-Man, Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy, and so much more, hear about it all in this week’s special edition of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! The audio version of our show is also still available. Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT110.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 19, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 110: Toy Fair 2014 – Hasbro Reveals!

New Podcast: Issue 109: To Infinite and Beyond!

Collectors of action figures based on the Marvel Universe comics and movies have a reason to be excited. After an ominous tease at last year’s San Diego Comic-Con, the Marvel Universe figure line replacement is revealed–it’s the Marvel Infinite Series figures. With no Avengers subtitle, no restriction on character selection, and even Marvel Universe figures repacked, it’s a continuation of the line collectors have loved for years. On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast, Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie run down this news and give their thoughts.Fans of 6-inch figures can be excited as well, the new Infinite Series Legends figures are amazing, and nearly impossible to find! As the second wave of Spider-Man Legends start to hit store pegs, watch a review of the first wave of Captain America Legends. With troop builders like the Hydra and A.I.M. soldiers, baddies like Baron Zemo and Red Skull, plus two different versions of Cap himself, all are reviewed this episode!With a review of Kotobukiya’s new X-Force Psyclocke Bishoujo statue, a reason to put up with K-Mart’s foul stench, and a charity auction you won’t want to miss, it’s all in this week’s issue of the Marvelicious Toys video podcast!Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! The audio version of our show is also still available. Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT109.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 12, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 109: To Infinite and Beyond!

Sideshow Collectibles and Hot Toys give Iron Man fans Whiplash!

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One of Iron Man’s deadliest foes in the comics is Whiplash, and in Iron Man 2 that comic book baddie was brought to life by Mickey Rourke.  An evil tech genius in his own right, Ivan Vanko used the Arc reactor technology to first create whips that almost defeated Iron Man in Monaco, then upgraded to a full suit of armor all his own.  With this new suit Whiplash almost defeated both Iron Man and War Machine.

Now that armor can be yours, thanks to Hot Toys and their US distributor Sideshow Collectibles.

This character and outfit have been teased for a long time, images of the Whiplash Armor leaking from conventions across the globe, but now it is available for order.  Standing 13 inches tall, this DIECAST figure has highly detailed metallic black body armor, 36 points of articulation–including fingers, and switch out chest armor for regular or battle damaged.

More, there is a removable magnetic mask that reveals an authentic Mickey Rourke likeness with the wrinkles, beard, and facial expression that made the character pop in the film.

And whips–oh yes there are whips, with flashes and LED light-up functions.  The helmeted head has LED light-up eyes as well!

All of this can be displayed on a detailed diorama base.

As anticipated as this figure is, with all the accessories and light-up features, and at an attractive $399 price point (which is great for a diecast figure of this size) this is bound to move quickly, so get your preorder in now at Sideshow Collectibles!

 

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February 5, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow Collectibles and Hot Toys give Iron Man fans Whiplash!

New Podcast: Issue 108: There’s Something About Mary Jane

Face it, podcast listener, you just hit the jackpot! On this massive, movie-length issue of the Marvelicious Toys video podcast the Marvelicious hosts have received the brand new J Scott Campbell Mary Jane Comiquette from Sideshow Collectibles. Campbell is one of the hottest Marvel cover artists around right now, and his line of Spider-Man statues has a lot of buzz. Watch this week’s episode to see tons of pictures of this sexy redhead and find out if she needs to join your collection!But this latest statue is only the most recent Mary Jane representation in polystone. For a non-powered love interest Mary Jane has been represented in several statues. Also in this issue Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin look at three previous Mary Jane statues: one from Kotobukiya, one from Bowen, and the infamous Adam Hughes Comiquette from Sideshow. Hughes’ statue caused quite a stir when it was originally released, and in this issue you can hear an exclusive interview with the legendary pin-up artist discussing this and his other statue work!With an eBay peek at Hasbro’s second wave of Amazing Spider-Man legends, a Guardians of the Galaxy report from CES, and oh so much more, it’s all in this brand new Marvelicious Toys!Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! The audio version of our show is also still available. Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT108.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 28, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 108: There’s Something About Mary Jane

Sideshow Collectibles Preorder – Premium Format Captain America Winter Soldier Movie Version

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Earlier this week  Sideshow Collectibles teased new Premium Format Figure line tying into Captain America: The Winter Soldier!  They immediately promised Captain America and The Winter Soldier 1/4 scale statues, and already the first–the Captain America Premium Format figure is up for order!

In a bit of an unusual move, Sideshow has no photos of this item available for the pre-order–not even the prototype.  However the description promises “a stunning likeness of award-winning actor Chris Evans” and a “screen-accurate sculpted costume” and finally “switch-out classic and stealth shields.”

Honestly all of those sound really nice, but the question I have is if this is going to be Steve Rogers in the Captain America outfit, or if he’s in the new SHIELD blue outfit.  I think it is the former, as the exclusive edition of this statue comes with a switch-out unmasked head (the regular edition comes only with the masked head).

At $398 this is one of the more expensive Premium Format Figures from Sideshow (not counting the larger figures like Hulk and Apocalypse).  With no photos I am hesitant to order, however perhaps due to the lack of product photography you can now pre-order Cap with no non-refundable deposit.  So there is really no risk if the photos are not to your liking.

If you are already a Cap fan you know you need that exclusive edition, so go and order now!

 

 

January 17, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow Collectibles Preorder – Premium Format Captain America Winter Soldier Movie Version

Sideshow Puts Hot Toys Thor: The Dark World Loki Figure Up For Preorder

Loki Thor Dark World Hot Toys Landscape

I bring glad tidings….

Loki Thor Dark World Hot ToysWhen Thor: The Dark World was released in November, 2013 the Hot Toys tie-ins were notably quiet.  For both The Avengers and Iron Man 3 Sideshow Collectibles had a large number of Hot Toys figures up for pre-order before the movies were even released, but Thor had only two:  the regular Thor sixth-scale figure (still available for pre-order) and the Sideshow Exclusive Thor in Asgardian Light Armor (the pre-orders are sold out but there are spots available on Sideshow’s Wait List).  But long rumored were other figures, and an obvious one was fan-favorite villain Loki.

Today that rumor became reality when Sidehow released for pre-order their new Thor: The Dark World Loki sixth scale figure.

Loki stands about 12-inches tall and comes with an incredibly detailed black, green, gold and red suit as ween in the film.  A combination of materials gives this a leather-like sheen.

The facial likeness shows a menacing Tom Hiddleston.  The facial expression is grim, and makes the face look a little less like the actor than the (long sold out) Avengers movie Loki, but this may also be the result of the pre-release photos of the prototype.

Loki comes with 6 interchangeable hands in a variety of poses, his trademark dagger, plus manacles for his wrists and ankles so you can recreate the scene in which he is sentenced for his treason.

Additionally there is an exclusive edition of this figure, available only through Sideshow Collectibles, that comes with the Aether Accessory from the movie!

All Hot Toys based on Marvel movies sell out in time, and with Loki being such a fan favorite I suspect he may sell out even before his brother, even though Thor had a 4 month head start!  So don’t delay, flex pay is available, get your order in now at Sideshow’s site!

January 17, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow Puts Hot Toys Thor: The Dark World Loki Figure Up For Preorder

New Podcast: Issue 107: Carnage in the Toy Aisle

Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

Marvel action figure collectors, we hope you didn’t spend all your cash on the holidays because Hasbro has started shipping tons of new figures! 6-inch Marvel Legends figures tying into The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and Captain America 2: The Winter Soldier are now hitting pegs, months before the corresponding movies will come out. Plus the 4-inch figure lines for both movies are also showing up! On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie run down all the new toys being released. Plus you can hear in-depth, hands on reviews of the first wave of Amazing Spider-Man 2 Legends including Superior Spider-Man, Black Cat, Carnage, Beetle, and the movie-based Electro and Spider-Man!

But not all the new Hasbro products fit the existing figure lines. Also showing up en masse are Hasbro’s Marvel Superhero Mashers. Want a Spider-Man head on a Hulk body with Hawkeye’s arms? This toy line allows you to mix and match the body parts and accessories of your favorite heroes. The hosts give a review of these items and say if they are fun for kids, adults, or anyone!

With a rundown of clearance sales, new blind boxed Marvel toys from Funko, high end releases from Sideshow, and one last release of figures from Hasbro’s cancelled Marvel Universe line, it’s all in this jam-packed VIDEO issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT107.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 17, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 107: Carnage in the Toy Aisle

Review: Wolverine vs. Sabretooth Motion Comic

Review copy provided courtesy of Shout! Factory

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Out today on DVD is Wolverine Versus Sabretooth — the latest Marvel Knights Motion Comic from Shout! Factory.

For those who have not yet watched a motion comic, it is a “splitting the difference” between a static comic on the page and a full-blown animated film.  The images on the screen have a limited amount of motion; sometimes a character will move slightly like a paper cut-out, sometimes the camera zooms or pans over a comic panel.  But while the visuals are semi-static, the audio provides a full-blown cinematic experience including professional voice actors and a robust film score.

Screen still 3 from Wolverine Vs Sabretooth

Marvel superheroes have a long history of Motion Comics, with some of my favorites being the Joss Whedon Astonishing X-Men series and Spider-Woman: Agent of S.W.O.R.D.  But (as described on a special feature on the DVD) Wolverine is one of Marvel’s most popular characters and certainly its most famous X-Man so there have been several Wolverine motion comics including Wolverine: Origins, Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk, and now Wolverine vs. Sabretooth.

These releases all adapt existing, popular stories told in the pages of Marvel comics and this newest release continues that pattern by adapting the controversial Wolverine: Evolution comic arc written by Jeph Loeb.  After years of not knowing his own origin, Wolverine finally remembers his life before the Weapon X project, but with those memories come nightmares involving Roman gladiators and a mysterious character named Romulus.  In this arc Wolverine will uncover secrets that reveal even more about his own origin, as well as his possible genetic connection to long-time nemesis Sabretooth. The new history for Wolverine put forth in this story caused a ripple of fan discontent, and has been mostly explained away in later comics, but however you feel about the revelations they are attention-grabbing.

Screen Still 5 from Wolverine Vs Sabretooth

As this motion comic is strictly an adaptation of the comics I won’t review the source material.  Suffice it to say it has guest appearances from some of the other most popular characters in Marvel comics, as well as some more obscure ones.  There is lots of action and globe-trotting, and as a viewer watching the story for the first time I was hooked by the tease of revelations the story provided, even if some of the suggestions were eyeroll inducing.  However there is one shock for which I was completely unprepared, it’s this story’s “money shot”, and while I’m sure most X-fans know it already it really does give this story a weight that many do not.

 

However by adapting a single arc from an ongoing comic series, as this motion comic does, there are lingering questions to be answered.  In some cases, such as the Astonishing X-Men series, the entire run is adapted to motion comics.  However, more regularly, questions are asked in motion comics that require viewers to then go to comics (or Wikipedia) to find answers.  That trend continues with Wolverine versus Sabretooth–while the story told is a complete arc with a satisfying resolution, there are many questions still left unresolved.  But in comics the stories are never “done”, they always want you to buy the next issue, and this will feed that compulsion.

Screen Still 7 from Wolverine Vs. Sabretooth

Aside from the story my real question with the motion comics is the presentation of the material.  Comic readers have had 7 years to read this story in print, so what about the presentation will appeal to a non-comics reader?  The answer is–lots.

 

With this latest release the quality of the Marvel motion comics continues to improve.  The earliest of motion comic releases had poor voice acting, generic music, and very limited motion.  But with Wolverine versus Sabretooth it’s impressive how these have improved.  The voices for the main characters of Wolverine, Sabretooth, Storm, Black Panther, and others are equivalent to those that would be heard in any television animated series.  Added with the sound effects and the music, director Carl Upsdell delivers an immersive aural experience that exceeds many of the best radio dramas I’ve heard.


Screen Still 6 from Wolverine Vs. SabretoothThe visuals are also some of the best that I’ve seen in a motion comic.  I am a fan of Simone Bianchi’s art style, and motion comics are a tremendous showcase for great comic art.  Projected on my home theater I’m able to see detail in the art that would never appear on a page.  I’m also very impressed with the way the producers have separated the foreground characters from the background scenery, giving the scenes an almost 3-D feel.  That said, the trademarks that separate a motion comic from an animated film exist from the wood-puppet mouth movements to the static nature of the images. I know many people who simply find the motion comic animation style to be dull, and I don’t see anything in Wolverine versus Sabretooth that will make converts of the disaffected.

The DVD sticks to the format of the original comic, presenting the story as 6 individual “episodes”.  You can watch all six back-to-back, but each repeats the opening credits sequence, padding the overall runtime to just over an hour.  The DVD has one special feature in which Loeb and Bianchi look back on this arc.  There are no mea culpas and no apologies that may be desired by those who disliked these changes to Wolverine’s backstory, but Loeb does describe his thought process behind why this story was necessary and why it took so long to be fully told.  The 23 minute featurette provides a discussion of the writing, the art, and the characters of Wolverine and Sabretooth.

Screen Still 9 from Wolverine Vs. Sabretooth

Taking a motion comic for what it is, Wolverine versus Sabretooth is technically the best I’ve seen to date.  If you haven’t read this Wolverine story arc, or if you have and want to revisit it in a new way, I can highly recommend this new 6-part feature, out on DVD today.

Buy this DVD now at Amazon.com

January 14, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Review: Wolverine vs. Sabretooth Motion Comic

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.
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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 MaskGhost, Captain Midnight, and X. Its successful line of comics, books, and products based on popular properties includes Star WarsMass Effect, Buffy the Vampire SlayerAliensConanAvatar: The Last AirbenderHaloSerenityThe 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.

January 3, 2014 Posted by | Books, Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Podcasts, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , | Comments Off on Press Release: Marvel to Publish Star Wars Comics & Graphic Novels

New Podcast: Issue 106: Toys of Future Past 2013 Part 2 – From Low to High End

Note: Marvelicious Toys’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.

In the past year Iron Man fans have had a decision to make, as Play Imaginative, Hot Toys, Sideshow Collectibles, Bandai, Kotobukiya, and so many other companies have released lines of Iron Man figures. On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin, Arnie, and Marjorie, joined by team members Shane and Geof, look back on the year that was for high end toy, statue, and bust collectors. From a 3-foot Galactus to Diamond Select Minimates to the Funko bobbleheads, plus the surprise Marvel Licensee of the Year, we discuss it all in this first video podcast of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT106.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 1, 2014 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 106: Toys of Future Past 2013 Part 2 – From Low to High End

New 3.75-inch Marvel Figures Possibly Revealed!

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The new Previews Catalog has a listing which is confusing, but may boast good news for Marvel Universe figure collectors!

The listing is for “Avengers Infinite Series Action Figures”.  They are described as being 6-inch figures, however Marvel collectors will recognize some tell-tale signs in the image that these are, in fact, 3.75-inch figures.  Specifically, the Iron Man “fwoosh” accessory is one that has been included on many 3.75-inch figures thus far.  Also the articulation indicates these are smaller-scale figures.  Additionally, the tiny Wasp version appears to be a repaint of the Wasp that came with the Avengers figure 3-pack.

The line-up includes:

  • Captain America
  • Heroic Age Iron man
  • Platinum Wasp
  • Platinum Hyperion
  • Platinum Hulk
  • Platinum Grim Reaper

The MSRP on these is $14.99, which may be a new price point or may be incorrect as the listing states the figures are 6-inch.

It also states they ship in March, so they should start showing up in major retail stores as early as February.  It’s still unknown, though, if major retailers like Walmart will carry this line, as discussed in the latest Marvelicious Toys podcast.

But a Marvel NOW Hulk, a full-size Wasp, a 3.75-inch Hyperion, and Grim Reaper?  2014 may be a great time to be a Marvel fan and collector!

December 24, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Sideshow has two Premium Pre-Orders for the Marvel fans!

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Quite an expensive day to be a fan of Marvel statues as Sideshow has not one but TWO pre-orders today.

First, for the Captain America comics fan, is the Premium Format Red Skull statue.  A perfect companion piece to the Captain America (put up for pre-order Nov 7, exclusive edition still available) this Red Skull stands with his gun cocked and ready.  He has an incredibly detailed suit and leather coat that is an awesome blend of comic-style with real-world fashion.  It has a flair of Axis World War II military outfits, tying the Red Skull statue very closely with his WWII origins.

More, if you order the Exclusive Edition of the Red Skull you get a swap-out head showing a more classic comic Red Skull portrait with the full eyebrows!  Truthfully the exclusive edition is a must-have for this piece and will make many fans order early, so if you want yours get it now–swap-out heads often double in price on eBay.

This Red Skull stands 21-inches tall and is scheduled to ship in September, 2014.

 

Also available today is the first statue in Sideshow’s 1/4 scale Iron Man movie line.  These maquettes are the same scale as Sideshow’s Premium Format figures to display well together, and the new Iron Man pieces will assemble perfectly with any other Sideshow Avengers statues you may own.  It’s unclear how deep this line of statues will go (if they do the entire House Party Protocol the price could exceed that of many small cars) but their first offering is up and it’s The Iron Patriot armor from Iron Man 3.

Iron Patriot stands 22-inches tall, a high gloss paint application, and a switch-out head with a realistic Don Cheadle face.  It’s truly a collectible worth saluting, and ships next December (yes, in 2014)

Are you ordering just one, both, or neither?  Let us know in the comments below!

December 19, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow has two Premium Pre-Orders for the Marvel fans!

New Podcast: Issue 105: Toys of Future Past 2013 Part 1 – Hasbro

2013 has been an exciting year for Marvel toy collectors, and Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin are joined by some other Marvelicious co-hosts to recall it all! On this first episode of the year in review the hosts look at the year in Hasbro toys. From Iron Man Assemblers to Thor: The Dark World the movie lines have been varied, plus with a return of Marvel Legends and the end of the fan favorite Marvel Universe 3.75-inch line all Marvel fans had something to celebrate, and something to frustrate. Including the San Diego Comic-Con exclusives and the return of Nick Fury, we discuss all the year’s toys, and look forward to 2014’s offerings, in this new Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT105.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 18, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 105: Toys of Future Past 2013 Part 1 – Hasbro

New Podcast: Issue 104: God of Thunder & Rock and Roll

Avengers Assemble! It’s not just a battle cry–it’s now a cartoon, and to tie into the Disney XD show Hasbro has a line of 3.75-inch Marvel characters. The second wave of Hasbro’s Avengers Assemble figures have been online for some time. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys you can hear reviews of the new Hawkeye, Nick Fury, Thor, and Leader figures. Listen to find out if these are these worth hunting down for your collection.Also in this show, Geof returns with Super Hero Fun Time and a hands on review of the Bandai Figuarts Iron Man and War Machine. These 6-inch figures may be scaled the same as Marvel Legends, but listen to find out why the much higher cost is justified.With reviews of Kotobukiya’s Fine Arts Daredevil statue, Sideshow’s Premium Format Hawkeye, and Arnie tells of receiving his second Galactus Maquette from Sideshow Collectibles, it’s all in this Thanksgiving-stuffed issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT104.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 4, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 104: God of Thunder & Rock and Roll

Hot Toys re-releases Hulk, adds Bruce Banner Figure. Preorder Now.

902164-bruce-banner-and-hulk-003

Sideshow keeps the new Hot Toys figures coming!  Yesterday they released the exclusive, much anticipated Iron Man in MIDAS Armor (now on waitlist but you MIGHT be able to still get one).  Now, today, they have put up for pre-order their Hulk and Bruce Banner figures.

Bruce Banner is a totally new figure from Hot Toys.  This figure is incredibly detailed with an eerily realistic Mark Ruffalo likeness, his purple shirt outfit from The Avengers, his glasses, and Loki’s Chitauri scepter.  With over 30 points of articulation this figure likely moves more than Banner ever did on screen!  Expected to ship in September, 2014 this figure is available alone for $189.99

But who wants a Banner but not a Hulk?  The Hot Toys Hulk figure has found an incredible (pardon the pun) life in the aftermarket.  The Hot Toys Hulk has been long sold out online, and eBay prices spiked as high as $600, with an average being $400-$500 for the big green guy.  Now, through a package deal, Hot Toys is offering you a second chance to get the Hulk figure as part of a combo pack with Bruce Banner.  This pack is a Sideshow Exclusive, and comes with brand new Hulk accessories–a base showing a “Smashed” Chitauri plus two accessories that look like steel girders for Hulk to weild.  Plus you get the huge Hulk figure that was previously available, that stands over 16.5 inches tall, has 20 points of articulation, and looks like he jumped off the movie screen.

Get Banner to keep your Avengers assembled, or get the pair, they ship in September but Flex Pay is available.  Get your order in now at Sideshow’s site!  And remember, if ordering these Hot Toys or any item from Sideshow, please use the links from our site or e-mail to help support the Marvelicious Toys site and podcast!

December 3, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Hot Toys re-releases Hulk, adds Bruce Banner Figure. Preorder Now.

Up for Order: Sideshow Premium Format Deadpool – X-Force Edition

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Sideshow Collectibles Premium Format Deadpool went on sale in 2012.  The exclusive version quickly sold out, and the regular edition also sold out once fans started receiving this gorgeous statue, which we reviewed on our podcast.

Now to fill demand for fans who missed out the first time, and to give X-Force fans some love, Sideshow has a new version of this statue available.  It comes on a more standard base, with the red X on top instead of the Deadpool logo.  Additionally, Deadpool now comes with twin katanasthat can be held in his hands or, as in the previous version, put in holsters on his back.

It’s different enough from the original that many collectors will be getting both, and those who missed out on the red-and-black version now have an opportunity to get this gorgeous sculpt again.  So check it out now at Sideshow’s site!

November 29, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Up for Order: Sideshow Premium Format Deadpool – X-Force Edition

New Podcast: Issue 103: Black Friday and Sweet Christmas Gift Guide 2013

It can be hard to shop for a Marvel collector. If they love action figures or statues, video games or movies, finding just the right gift can be difficult. Never fear–just listen to the Marvelicious Toys 4th Annual Marvel Holiday Gift Guide and Black Friday shopping companion!

In this issue of the podcast Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie look back at all the Marvel items out there and pick only the absolute coolest to go on the Marvelicious gift list. With a focus on retail or discount priced items readily available, you can find the perfect object to put under the tree to give your Marvel collector a SWEET CHRISTMAS!

And also on this podcast the hosts look at all the Black Friday and Cyber Monday bargains. Should Marvel collectors brave the crowds for discounts on LEGO, Hasbro, and other items, or should you just shop online from the comfort of your home or office? Listen to find out!

With an update on Sideshow’s orders of the Hot Toys Iron Man in MIDAS armor and a Deadpool Premium Format in X-Force colors, it’s all in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And don’t forget to sign up for the 2013 X-MAS Gift Exchange! Sign-ups end December 2nd. Get and give some Marvel joy this season by joining this Secret Santa gift exchange! Find out all the details.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT103.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 28, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 103: Black Friday and Sweet Christmas Gift Guide 2013

Sideshow Exclusive: Hot Toys Chitauri Footsoldier and Commander Duo

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You have assembled your Hot Toys Avengers figures, but they need someone to fight, right?  Never fear, now up for pre-order are the Hot Toys Chitauri Footsoldier and Chitauri Commander figures!

The Chitauri Footsoldier has 22 points of articulation, 2 pairs of interchangable hands (clenched fists and relaxed), a removable mask, headgear, body armor, and a Chitauri Arm Cannon.  It scomes with a city rubble diorama “stage” base.

The Chitauri Commander has 22 points of articulation and 2 pairs of hands, but more armor.  It comes with the Chitauri arm cannon and a grenade, and stands on a city rubble “stage” base also.

You can buy each individually, but only from Sideshow can you get the exclusive pair!  It’s $5 cheaper than buying the two alone, AND you get an exclusive Chitauri Rifle, and a special Left palm to hold it!

Army build or just buy one set, but order now because these guys may disappear as fast as they did in the battle of New York.

 

 

 

November 22, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow Exclusive: Hot Toys Chitauri Footsoldier and Commander Duo

Opinion: I Wanna Be A Toys-R-Us Adult

Toys WERE Us Logo

 

I don’t wanna grow up, I’m a Toys ‘R’ Us kid!”  Those words sang out to me from the television so often in the 1980s.  As a child watching cartoons like Transformers, G.I. Joe, He-Man, Droids, Ewoks, and Smurfs this commercial told me definitively where I could go to buy the toys based on the shows.  

“I don’t wanna grow up, cuz if I did…I couldn’t be a Toys ‘R’ Us kid!”  These lines helped define my generation.  Despite eschewing the nostalgia of our elders, Generation X has become a generation defined by its childhood.  As I travel to toy shows across the country it’s not children buying toys, it’s adults my age and older who covet the latest toys and figures.  In our youth we bought toys to recreate scenes from TV shows and movies, and as adults we still buy them to show our fandom and relive our childhoods.

But per a report this morning Toys “R” Us may be in trouble.  Judging by the company’s bond ratings, if Toys “R” Us doesn’t have an impressive holiday season there may be no future generations of Toys “R” Us kids.  Competition from online stores plus bottom-dollar brick-and-mortars like Wal-Mart have eaten into Toys “R” Us’ business.  That, plus a declining action figure market have put the company in jeopardy.

My first reaction to this news was “good riddance.”  As an adult toy collector, collecting Star Wars and Marvel toys, I have frequented Toys “R” Us for the past 18 years.  In that time I’ve seen Toys “R” Us go into decline.  In an effort to stay profitable the toy section of the store shrank while the video games section grew.  More, they relied more on high profit diaper sales and baby formula to bolster their bottom line, making the differences between Toys “R” Us and their sister chain Babies “R” Us negligible.

Worse, Toys “R” Us prices have risen.  While toy prices have increased almost 100% between 2005 and 2013, Toys “R” Us has taken them even higher.  For the past 2 years action figures cost $1 to $2 more at Toys “R” Us than at retailers Target or Wal-Mart.

Toys “R” Us does provide an outlet for toy manufacturers to make and release toys that collectors and kids wouldn’t get otherwise.  In the past few years they have had exclusive Star Wars vehicles like Jango Fett’s Slave I, an AT-AT from Return of the Jedi, and the Star Wars Millennium Falcon starship in exclusive, retro packaging.  But exclusives at Toys “R” Us have come with a hefty price tag.  The Millennium Falcon was originally released in 2008 for a MSRP of $159.99; the Toys “R” Us exclusive version, the same in every way save the box, was $249.99 in 2012.  The Star Wars AT-AT was  $99.99 at general retail in 2010, in 2013 the Toys “R” Us exclusive was $149.99.  These top-dollar prices have turned off many collectors, leaving these items to languish on store shelves.  Last week the Toys “R” Us exclusive Falcon was clearanced out for $99, 40% of the original price.

 

But as I reflected further on the loss of Toys “R” Us I realized that despite their high prices, poor store layout, and shrinking toy area, the loss of this store would be horrible for toy collectors, and the toy industry as a whole.

While Toys “R” Us has been overpriced in their exclusives, if the store were to close Star Wars fans would never have had the option to own the vehicles listed above.  From action figures to high-end vehicles, Toys “R” Us offered the exclusives giving fans the choice to buy or not buy.  If Toys “R” Us closes, that is an avenue for exclusives that is forever cut off and many niche toys targeted to the collector market will never even be offered.

More, Toys “R” Us carries toy lines not found at the big box retailers.  Manufacturers like Diamond Select Toys and NECA manufacture more collector-oriented action figures.  From Diamond’s Walking Dead Minimates to NECA’s video game based figures, these are toys you won’t find at major department stores.  Yes, these are also sold online, but I have no doubt these smaller toy companies will suffer from the loss of visibility garnered from the Toys “R” Us shelves.  There are many toys I would not have bought had I not seen them in person at Toys “R” Us, including many, many packages of Diamond Select Marvel Minimates.  More, Diamond has even had 17 waves of Toys “R” Us exclusive Minimates, more figures and toys that simply will not be made.  This retail avenue for smaller toy companies is vital to maintain competition in the toy industry and keep niche toys, such as NECA’s Nightmare on Elm Street figure line, viable.

Further, even big toy lines have had trouble getting shelf space anywhere but Toys “R” Us.  As reported in Marvelicious Toys Podcast 102 Hasbro’s Thor: The Dark World toy line has only been available online, or at Toys “R” Us.  The line is not a Toys “R” Us exclusive, but the dedicated toy store is the only retail outlet that has made room for the action figures tying into the blockbuster film.

Finally, Toys “R” Us is the last of the national toy stores.  I remembered when Toys “R” Us opened in my hometown of Springfield, Illinois in the mid 1980s.  It was at that time yet another toy store where I could shop, adding it to my rotation along with other national toy chains KB Toys and Circus World, not to mention local stores like Toys Plus, and national department stores Montgomery Wards, Sears, J.C. Penny, K-Mart, and Venture, all of whom carried large selections of toys.  But now many department stores have eliminated their toy sections, unable to compete with Wal-Mart in price.  And all of the national toy stores have, one by one, closed their doors.

If Toys “R” Us also closes, there is no place left for children to go and find an entire store aimed at their interests.  Further, adult collectors will have no local presence devoted to their hobbies; they will be forced to go to regional toy shows and comic cons for dedicated shopping.  

And without the competition Toys “R” Us provides, big box retailers Target and Wal-Mart will simply have less motivation to keep prices low and their store stock varied.  More toy lines like the Thor: The Dark World line will be available only online, if toy manufacturers even consider them viable to make at all.

While Toys “R” Us prices have not been competitive, their costs are still lower than having to pay shipping from online retailers, and they have provided collectors and kids a way to get toys they would otherwise never have.  So when shopping this holiday season consider supporting your Toys “R” Us so that you and your children have a chance to continue being Toys “R” Us kids.

November 21, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

New Podcast: Issue 102: The Puck Stops Here!

Rocket Raccoon, Scarlet Spider, The Wrecker, Black Panther, Hawkeye, Jean Grey, Emma Frost, Wolverine, Sabretooth, Cyclops, and Puck–no, it’s not a new Marvel Event team-up but the last two waves of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends figures! On the latest issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Arnie, and Marjorie review these 11 new releases. Some of them are very hard to find, listen to find out if they’re worth the hunt!

Also in this week’s show, listen to be enLIGHTened about three new Iron Man 3 Assemblers, the final wave of Marvel Universe, including Black Knight, showing up in stores, and how to get a Quinjet and Helicarrier for half off!

With new Disney Store exclusive Diamond Select figures and a brief review of Thor: The Dark World it’s all in the 102nd issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And join us next week on Thanksgiving for our annual Black Friday sale guide and Sweet Christmas shopping list!

Dont’ forget to sign up for the 2013 X-MAS Gift Exchange! Get and give a Marvel themed gift this holiday season! Find out all the details.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT102.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 20, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 102: The Puck Stops Here!

New Podcast: Issue 101: Super Thor Bros!

Tomorrow the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to grow with Thor: The Dark World. With the mighty Avenger back on screen he is also back in toy stores with Hasbro’s new line of 3.75-inch Thor figures. This line features two versions of Thor, plus Loki, Kurse, and a Dark Elf. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast hosts Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie provide hands-on reviews of these figures. Is this a figure line collectors should pay attention to? Listen to find out!

Also on this week’s show the hosts discuss the two newest Marvel movie trailers – Captain America: The Winter Soldier and X-Men: Days of Future Past.

With a review of the new LEGO Marvel video game, an update on some Uncanny Marvel Universe figures, a run-down of new figures in the latest two waves of Marvel Universe figures, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT101.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 6, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 101: Super Thor Bros!

Sideshow Collectibles brings the Apocalypse (Premium Format Statue)

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We saw it at San Diego Comic-Con–the giant visage of Apocalypse, staring at us from the glass case in Sideshow Collectibles’ booth.  Among all the new statues and figures, this one stood over them all.  His steel blue armor, his pale face, and his heft, this was truly a villain, and a statue, that would require reckoning.

Now Sideshow has made this available for pre-order.  He stands over two feet tall on a metallic-looking base.

More, there is an EXCLUSIVE EDITION with a switch-out hand allowing you to have the chainsaw arm.

In your collection this baddie will certainly be something guests look upon and tremble, so don’t miss out–get your pre-order into Sideshow today!

 

Arnie is co-host of the Marvel toy & statue collecting podcast Marvelicious Toys which can be heard at marvelicioustoys.com

October 31, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, News, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Sideshow Collectibles brings the Apocalypse (Premium Format Statue)

New Podcast: Issue 100: Our Marvelicious 100th Episode — LIVE!

Welcome to Marvelicious Toys’ 100th podcast! Recorded live October 17th the Marvelicious Toys hosts Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin got to chat with podcast listeners and give away over a thousand dollars in prizes from sponsors Gentle Giant, Sideshow Collectibles, Kotobukiya, eFX Collectibles, Diamond Select Toys and more!

And on this episode Marjorie and Arnie ran down the latest news from New York Comic-Con, including Hasbro’s off-site press event where they showed figures from the 2014 toy lines–including Captain America: The Winter Soldier and The Amazing Spider-Man 2!

With new Bishoujo and Art-FX+ statues from Kotobukiya, a review of eFX’s NYCC exclusive Phil Coulson badge, and more, it’s all in this IGOR-sized recording of Marvelicious Toys LIVE!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT100.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 23, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 100: Our Marvelicious 100th Episode — LIVE!

New Podcast: Issue 99: It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Xavier!

Action figures! New action figures are shipping from Hasbro in the Avengers Assemble, Marvel Universe, and Iron Man 3 toy lines! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin give you the run down on what’s new, and where you can find it!

Also this week, with the holidays coming, and by holidays we mean Halloween though the stores think Christmas, stores are full of cool swag Marvel fans can use to show their love of their favorite heroes. From Spider-Man Jack-O-Lanterns to Avengers lawn inflatables, the items range from uber-cool to ultra-tacky. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys we tell you about the items you’ll want, and want to avoid, for your house this season!

An announcement–our next podcast will be Marvelicious Toys’ 100th episode! To celebrate we’re having a LIVE SHOW on Thursday, October 17th at 8:30pm EST. If you join us live at marvelicioustoys.com you can listen to our show and have a chance to win one of the following great prizes:

A Ghost Rider Statue donated by Gentle Giant Ltd. A Hot Toys Captain America – Star Spangled Man figure donated by Sideshow Collectibles An Iron Man Mark 42 Art-FX statue donated by Kotobukiya The Avengers Phase I Blu-Ray Box SetPhil Coulson Agent of SHIELD NYCC Exclusive Badge donated by eFX Collectibles Kotobukiya Bishoujo Black Widow StatueThe SDCC Exclusive Old Man Logan Marvel Universe Figure Pair of Unmasked Wolverine POP Vinyl Variant Bobbleheads Diamond Select Storm Figure Diamond Select Deadpool Figure Marvel Legends Scarlet Spider Figure

To win you must attend the live show at 8:30pm EST on the 17th at MarveliciousToys.com. (International winners are responsible for all taxes and shipping costs, please see all official rules here)

We hope to see you there!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT099.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 9, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 99: It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Xavier!

New Podcast: Issue 98: Earth’s Mightiest Handwipes

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE! It’s not just a battle cry, it’s a toy line! Tying into the new Disney XD animated series, and picking up where Hasbro’s Avengers movie line left off. Are these figures that 3.75-inch Marvel collectors need? Listen to this issue of Marvelicious Toys as Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie review Wave 1 of this new toy line, with Red Skull, The Falcon, Captain America, Iron Man, Black Widow, and Hulk!

Also in stores are tons of other Avengers items. Micro Muggs, Diamond Select figures, T-Shirts, shoes, and even HAND WIPES! Listen to this week’s show for a run down of the new stuff.

With SDCC Exclusives on sale at Entertainment Earth, a hands-on review of the Marvel Unlimited Plus gold Ultron figure, and a look at two new educational and fun items from Uncle Milton, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT098.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 2, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 98: Earth’s Mightiest Handwipes

New Podcast: Issue 97: The Iron Man Blu’s

Iron Man 3 had a high bar for success. After The Avengers made over 1.5 billion dollars in the box office, could a solo avenger fly nearly so high? But the armored Avenger delivered, becoming the number one movie for 2013 and getting over a billion dollars in worldwide box office. Now it’s time for Iron Man to fly into your home video collection! The movie comes out in the USA tomorrow! But where are the exclusive versions? Listen to this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast where Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin discuss this.

Also in this issue, Hasbro’s Marvel Universe figures are hitting fast with three new case assortments shipping in the past two weeks! There are now 22 figures released in the 2013 line. Arnie has them all in hand, so listen to find out which are new, which are “new enough”, and which are difficult to tell.

With a final review of Sideshow’s Deadpool Premium Format Figure, the coming of the Sideshow Galactus Maquette, a report from Project Comic-Con 2013 in St. Louis, and a Mego birthday to remember, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT097.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 23, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 97: The Iron Man Blu’s

New Podcast: Issue 96: FIGURE-ing Out Hasbro

Could Hasbro make Marvel action figure collecting more complicated? Currently at many toy stores there are three distinct toy lines, two current and one peg warming. More, the Marvel Universe toy line, once Hasbro’s flagship Marvel brand, is being retired and coming in 2014 in its place is a new line named, you guessed it, AVENGERS! Add to that 3.75-inch figure lines for Spider-Man, Wolverine, Thor, Iron Man 3, and more, keeping track can require a spreadsheet.

Or a podcast! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie run down all the current and future Hasbro Marvel toy lines. They look at the last four waves of Marvel Universe figures–all shipping in the next two months! Plus they outline what has been revealed of Hasbro’s future figure plans.

With a Sideshow Premium Format quality update and more, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT096.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 10, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 96: FIGURE-ing Out Hasbro

New Podcast: Issue 95: Exsmellcior!

The Marvel Universe is winding down but some great characters are still to come in the line’s final waves. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at the newest Hasbro Marvel Universe figures showing up on pegs with Elektra, Mysterio, Rhino, and Captain America! Plus also reviews of the new Avengers Assemble All Star and Iron Man 3 All Star figures from Hasbro. Also on this week’s show, Arnie has received two new Sideshow Collectibles Premium Format figures, but what does it mean when both are damaged out of the box? And what is Sideshow doing to make it right? The Marvelicious hosts examine a sharp decline in service and quality from one of the best-known Marvel collectible makers on this week’s show. With a new Stan Lee scent and so much more, it’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT095.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 28, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 95: Exsmellcior!

New Podcast: Issue 94: The Vonner Files

From 2006 to 2012 David Vonner was a Senior Product Designer at Hasbro, and the face of Marvel Universe action figures. Arguably, no other single person had as much influence over the creation, character selection, and design of Hasbro’s flagship 3.75-inch Marvel figure line. Even figures just now hitting retail were made due to Vonner’s passion and direction for Marvel. But as announced at San Diego Comic-Con International the Marvel Universe line is ending, replaced with the stylistically similar Avengers Assemble figure line. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Vonner sits down with Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie to discuss his passion for Marvel figures. Everything is discussed, from figures he’d championed that never got made to figures he would never make. Which real-life starlet was the model for Ms. Marvel’s bust? What does David think of the change in direction for Marvel action figures? Are smart phones and internet killing action figures? And do collectors really need Hyperion in two figure scales so close together? Listen for an unprecidented look behind the scenes of action figures from the man who saw it all unfold!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT094.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 21, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 94: The Vonner Files

New Podcast: Issue 93: Hot Toys — Feelin’ the Burn!

If you thought the build-up to The Avengers was heavy with Hot Toys pre-orders, the recent few weeks make Spring 2012 actually seem calm. With three new Marvel Hot Toys going up for preorder in one day, including two exclusives, the Mandarin put up shortly thereafter, and the tease of the Midas armor Iron Man, even Tony Stark would have to question the expense of buying them all! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast, Arnie and Marjorie, back in the studio, join Justin to discuss this frenzied release schedule and what it means for the Hot Toys collector.

Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie no sooner got back to the states before they went to Chicago for the Wizard World convention. Full of toys, cosplay, artists, and more, listen to find out if you should attend the next Wizard convention in your area!

With new toys showing up in stores, including exclusives, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT093.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 14, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 93: Hot Toys — Feelin’ the Burn!

New Podcast: Issue 92: SDCC 2013 – That’s a Wrap!

Arnie & Marjorie are off exploring Europe, but the show must go on! Join Justin, Jerry & Geof as they discuss the highs and lows of San Diego Comic-Con 2013. They try to bring some clarity to changes coming to Marvel Universe & Marvel Legends and try not to drool too much on Play Imaginative’s Super Alloy Iron Man offerings. Plus news on pre-orders for Hot Toys best pair of shoes to date!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT092.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 7, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 92: SDCC 2013 – That’s a Wrap!

New Podcast: Issue 91: Hasbro Panel & Marvel Studio Press Conferences SDCC 2013

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).In the universe of Marvel collecting the center is Hasbro. From Marvel Legends to Marvel Universe, movie tie-in figures and more, Hasbro holds the exclusive license to Marvel action figures. With all the changes lately, from lower articulation figures aimed at children to Iron Man Assemblers, fans and collectors were anxious for news on what Hasbro will do next. You heard a brief recap in our last issue, but now hear the entire Marvel brand presentation. And view the slides from the show on our web site, or the enhanced podcast!

Plus hear the press conferences for the upcoming Marvel Studios films Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT091.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 31, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 91: Hasbro Panel & Marvel Studio Press Conferences SDCC 2013

New Podcast: Issue 90: Marvelicious from SDCC 2013

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).San Diego Comic-Con International has the largest gathering of celebrities collectibles, comics and pop culture in the world. And for the third year in a row Marvelicious Toys was there to cover it all! Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they come to you from the show floor and report on the new statues and figures revealed, and the chaos of the exclusives. They are joined by several special guests this episode. If you couldn’t make it to the con, this issue of Marvelicious Toys is the next best thing! And if you were at the con, take a listen and relive the memories!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT090.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 23, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 90: Marvelicious from SDCC 2013

New Podcast: Issue 89: SDCC 2013 Preview Night

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).San Diego Comic-Con International opened today with Preview Night! The Marvelicious Toys Podcast hosts were there and standing in lots and lots of lines. Listen to their reports now that they have purchased the Deadpool Corps Taco Truck figure set, the Thunderbolts Marvel Legends sets, a handful of Old Man Logan figures, and so much more! With reports on new high end collectibles to drool over, it’s all in this short live report from Preview Night! And stay tuned with Marvelicious Toys on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest SDCC Marvel Collecting news, and next week we’ll have our full recap!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT089.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 17, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 89: SDCC 2013 Preview Night

New Podcast: Issue 88: Prepare For a Ducking Good Time

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).

The countdown to Comic-Con is on! Now join Marvelicious Toys as Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down the final exclusives, from glass coasters to bust banks to Betsy Ross, listen to find out what’s for sale and where! Plus find out about a celebrity attending the con that is sure to fit the bill!

Also on this week’s show, did you know of the Marvel Universe comic pack paint variants? This subtle running change has gone under the radar of most collectors, including the hosts! Find out which comic packs you need to complete your MU variant collection.

With a hands-on review of the second wave of Iron Man Assemblers, a POP Vinyl that is nothing to shake your head at, and so much more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys!

We want your feedback! Please take a few minutes and take the Marvelicious Toys listener poll and tell us what you’d like to hear on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT088.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 10, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 88: Prepare For a Ducking Good Time

New Podcast: Issue 87: The Marvel Shop

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).

After nearly a year of speculating it has been confirmed that the Hasbro Marvel Universe Old Man Logan figure will be released at San Diego Comic-Con. it is but one of the many Marvel exclusives that will be available in Marvel’s new SDCC presence–The Marvel Shop. With limited edition statues, comics, figures, iPhone covers, shirts, and so much more, Marvel has single-handedly changed the scope of Marvel toy and statue collecting at SDCC. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin, Arnie, and Marjorielook at the announced exclusives and help you decide which you should get right away!

Also on this week’s show the hosts look at Funko’s two new unmasked Deadpool POP Vinyl bobbles, as well as several other collectibles that POP out at you!

With more news on shirts, a totally tubular figure from Diamond Select, and so much more, it’s all on this countdown-to-Comic-Con issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT087.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 3, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 87: The Marvel Shop

New Podcast: Issue 86: Too Many Titles to Choose From!

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).

San Diego Comic-Con starts 3 weeks from today, and there are so many Marvel Comics collectibles exclusives even Galactus couldn’t carry them all! Join this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast as Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down the latest exclusive collectible announcements from FunKo, Diamond Select, Gentle Giant, and an especially shocking announcement from Sideshow Collectibles.

Also on this week’s show, the second wave of Iron Man Assembler figures have shown up online. Are they worth a look? The hosts review the pre-release photography and share if they are all in or all out on these 3.75-inch movie figures.

With Marvel Vinylmations from Disney, discounted Marvel Universe multi-figure packs, and so much more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT086.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 26, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 86: Too Many Titles to Choose From!

New Podcast: Issue 85: Right on the MUNNY!

Note: Starting in May, 2013 with version 11.0.3 an Apple iTunes update changed the iTunes Miniplayer. This update changed what must be done to view enhanced podcast images in iTunes. To view these images:Start playing the podcast in iTunes. At the top of iTunes you will see the player bar with a small icon of the show cover art.

In Windows hold down Ctrl and click the cover icon. In Mac hold down Command and click the cover icon. This will pop up a new window where you can see enhanced images. (if you just click on the icon it only shows a larger icon, no enhanced images).

The next big super hero movie is just around the corner — The Wolverine! Hugh Jackman returns to his career-defining role as Logan this July, and to capitalize on this Hasbro’s Wolverine toy line has started to show up in stores and online. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin reviews one of these figures. Listen to find out if 3.75-inches of Wolverine is enough or if you should wait until the 6-inch Legends figures are released later this year.

And while Wolverine is in theaters, Marvel movies are also dominating home media. Sony has released new Blu Ray releases of Spider-Man and The Amazing Spider-Man. There are no bonus features on the discs but they tout a clearer video mastered from a 4k video source. On this podcast Marjorie and Arnie share their view comparing the 4k Blu Ray and last year’s Blu Ray release of Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. Arnie also reviews Shout Factory’s new Blu Ray of Captain America — the 1990 version!

With a new segment dedicated to international toys based on Marvel Comics characters, new lines of vinyl collectibles, and oh so much more, it’s all in this Galactus-sized Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT085.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 19, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 85: Right on the MUNNY!

New Podcast: Issue 84: Thunderstruck

San Diego Comic Con is just a month away and Hasbro’s must-buy convention exclusives have been announced–A Marvel Universe Deadpool Corps figure pack and a Marvel Legends Thunderbolts figure pack! With tons of new characters to each scale, they’re sure to top many collectors’ wish lists. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys hosts Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin give their first reactions to these figures, as well as other Marvel exclusives from NECA, Funko, and more!

With a review of the Diamond Select Gambit and Colossus and a recap of the Marvel Superhero charity walk, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT084.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 12, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 84: Thunderstruck

New Podcast: Issue 83: 15 Bucks a POP!

Iron Patriot, Iron Man Mark 42, and Ultron–these are the figures in Hasbro’s second wave of Iron Man Marvel Legends 6-inch figures. With collectors collectively disappointed by the 3.75-inch Iron Man Assemblers line, do these new Legends make up for it? Listen to Justin, Arnie, and Marjorie’s review to find out!

Also on this week’s show the Marvelicious Toys hosts review two new X-Men figures from Diamond Select: Storm and Nightcrawler!

With a look at more San Diego Comic-Con exclusives from FunKo, a Timely Review by Jerry, and a striking new Thor from Bowen, it’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT083.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 5, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 83: 15 Bucks a POP!

New Podcast: Issue 82: Arnie’s Law

Marvelicious Toys is back! Hosts and Marvel collectors Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin are back in the studio and on the road bringing you news and reviews of Marvel Comics action figures and collectibles!

On this week’s show you can hear about upcoming, still unannounced, Hasbro action figures. They’ve been showing up on eBay–listen to find out which characters they are and where you might be able to find them! Plus information on how to find the elusive Thor Heimdall figure at a great bargain!

Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie went to the latest Toy Man Toy Show in St. Louis. Listen to find out what Marvel bargains were had big and small, plus a report from the Star Clipper sale event.

With a review of a chromed life-sized Thor’s hammer, your voicemails, an update on ThreeA Marvel collectibles, and more, it’s all in this jam-packed issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT082.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 29, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 82: Arnie’s Law

New Podcast: Issue 81: House Party Protocol

Iron Man 3 continues to blow up at the box office as Marvel fans old and new watch the armored Avenger’s latest adventure. On last week’s podcast Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin gave their thoughts on the movie and its toys. This week, it’s a House Party! Justin is joined by Jerry, Jen, Geof, Berent, Jayson, and Chris to give their thoughts on the movie. Listen to find out what they plan on collecting now that they’ve actually seen the film!

Plus listeners give their thoughts on Iron Man 3, all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT081.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 15, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 81: House Party Protocol

New Podcast: Issue 80: Iron Man 3–This is Getting Expensive

It has been a year since Avengers blew us all away with it’s action, effects, and wit. Finally last Friday (in the US) the armored Avenger has returned for his fourth big-screen outing. Iron Man films have always been accompanied by toys and collectibles, but after Avengers made more than a billion dollars, Iron Man 3 has more than ever before. There are, of course, the Hasbro figures, but also the Micro Muggs, Superhero Squad, Kotobukiya Statues, Sideshow Life-Sized Figures, and the Hot Toys, oh lord, the Hot Toys.

On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie give their reactions to the film. They also look at the collectibles and discuss exactly how many suits of armor is too many.

And we want you on a future Marvelicious Toys podcast. We want your thoughts on Iron Man 3, as well as on high-end Marvel statue collecting for a future show! Leave us a voicemail at 803-MARVEL4 or send an MP3 to show@marvelicious.com so we can record your thoughts!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT080.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 8, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 80: Iron Man 3–This is Getting Expensive

New Podcast: Issue 79: C2E2 2013

The Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, more commonly called C2E2 convention, happened at Chicago’s McCormick Place last weekend. It was the fourth C2E2 convention and thousands of people filled the show floor looking for comics, toys, autographs, collectibles, and a great time with friends. Marjorie and Arnie were at the con and you can hear their report on the toys and art they found at the show. Joined by Marvel collectors Sarah and Chris, they look at secondary market prices for Marvel Universe figures, discuss the new toys shown at the Diamond Select booth, and discuss new information revealed by Kotobukiya at the con.

Back in the studio with Justin, the Marvelicious hosts look at some hard to find figures that are hitting stores and online at bargain prices, and not one, not two, but four new Hot Toys Iron Man figures. All this and a disco cup on this week’s Marvelicious toys podcast!

And we still want your thoughts on high-end Marvel statue collecting for a future show! Leave us a voicemail at 803-MARVEL4 or send an MP3 to show@marvelicious.com so we can record your thoughts on Sideshow, Bowen, Koto, Diamond, and others!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT079.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 1, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 79: C2E2 2013

New Podcast: Issue 78: Is That Iron Man In Your Pocket Or Are You Just Happy To See Me?

Hasbro’s Marvel Universe line was an in for many Marvel collectors, at the more affordable and shelf-friendly 3.75-inch scale, but news of Marvel Universe figures had been scarce. Fear not, true collectors! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down a new wave of figures just put up for pre-order including Mysterio and Elektra! Plus some of the hardest to find Marvel Universe figures, the Marvel DCU mail-away figures, have been going up for sale for $15 each online! Listen to find out all the details!

Also on this week’s show, we run down several new Iron Man collectibles. From the 86Hero iPhone 5 Iron Man case to the Nendoroid Iron Man Mark VII to the three new Iron Man armors coming from Hot Toys. And a spatula! All this and more on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

(Note: This episode was recorded before Sideshow Collectibles put up the Red Snapper armor for pre-order yesterday. You can check it out at sideshowcollectibles.com

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT078.MP3

Category: Arts

    

April 24, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 78: Is That Iron Man In Your Pocket Or Are You Just Happy To See Me?

New Podcast: Issue 77: A Combination of Awesome and Awful

There’s a new Hasbro 3.75-inch Iron Man figure on shelves and online, and it’s not a poorly-articulated Iron Man 3 figure. No, out of the blue a new Avengers figure 4-pack has appeared at Kohls and online retailers. On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review these figures to see if they are worth assembling for your collection.

And also this week they look at some blind bagged collectibles from Zags Toys, the Grab Zags Collect-A-Balls and Nog’nz, and Arnie talks about the Master Replicas Thor Comic Scene Replica that has been showing up on eBay at a deep discount. All this, and a new Die Cast Hot Toys Iron Man, on this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT077.MP3

Category: Arts

    

April 10, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 77: A Combination of Awesome and Awful

New Podcast: Issue 76: Stan Lee is Classy

Wizard World conventions are a staple for sci-fi and comic book fans. In 2013 they have added a new convention in St. Louis, MO with Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee as a featured guest! Marjorie and Arnie were at the con, shopping and attending several Stan Lee events, and on this issue of Marvelicious Toys they report to tell you if this is a trip you should make when it returns next year!

Also this week, as we ramp up for Iron Man 3 even more new Iron Man products are being announced. For Hot Toys collectors the latest armor upgrade is to die cast, as a Die Cast Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Iron Patriot was put up for preorder, and a Mark 42 Die Cast Iron Man yet to come. Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie take a look at what this means for Hot Toys fans…and their wallets.

And as Iron Man 3 toys start to already go on sale in stores, a legendary Iron Man 2 pack was released in the UK–the Iron Man Undercover Assault pack with unmasked Iron Man and War Machine as well as the only Iron Man 2 Black Widow figure! Arnie has this set in hand and reviews it this show.

All this plus limited art prints from J.K. Woodward in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT076.MP3

Category: Arts

    

April 3, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 76: Stan Lee is Classy

New Podcast: Issue 75: Iron Man ASSEMBLED

Have you seen all the latest Iron Man advertisements with the 42 awesome different armors Tony has built? There’s the Mark 38 Heavy Lifting “Igor”, the Mark 33 Enhanced Energy “Silver Centurion”, the Mark 40 Hyper Velocity “Shotgun”. Then for collectors there’s the Heartbreaker…breaking our hearts to know that none of these cool armors will be translated into well-sculpted, painted, articulated toys like we got for Iron Man 2. Instead, for Iron Man 3, Hasbro has given us the Assembler’s lines of toys, and in this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Arnie, and Marjorie discuss the toys we want while reviewing the toys we’re going to get. Are the Assemblers passable 3.75-inch toys to go with your Iron Man 2 figures? Listen to the review to find out.But not all Marvel collectibles are disappointing. Also in this week’s issue, Arnie and Marjorie review two high-end items recently added to their collection. The first is Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Premium Format Storm statue, limited to 500 pieces, standing 20-inches tall, and coming with two interchangeable heads. Next is a strange, cute, deformed Iron Man figure found in a toy shop in Manhattan–the Tideway Iron Man Mark III.With a look at Marvel’s new audiobook adaptation of Stuart Moore’s Civil War novel, figure stands that make your figures fly, and something to knock your socks off, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT075.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 27, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 75: Iron Man ASSEMBLED

New Podcast: Issue 74: Going Rogue

Hasbro’s Marvel Universe is an exciting line for action figure collectors. Offering the articulation and detailed sculpts collectors crave at a much lower price point than the 6-inch Marvel Legends, this 3.75-inch line has drawn in tons of new Marvel collectors. But in 2012 distribution of Marvel Universe figures was spotty, with the Professor X wave barely seen at retail. Now, though, there are a dozen new Marvel Universe figures hitting stores! First is a new wave of single-carded figures with such fan favorites as Puck, Nova, and Angel. More, there are 3 new team packs shipping now with the West Coast Avengers, the Inhumans, and a classic X-Men pack! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie give hands-on reviews of these new figures.With a look at the recent Toy Man Toy Show in St. Louis, Marvel’s reveals at SXSW, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT074.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 20, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 74: Going Rogue

New Podcast: Issue 73: Double Blind

With all the new Marvel collectibles hitting stores it’s hard for a collector, a budget, or a podcast to keep up! In Issue 72 Marvelicious Toys podcast hosts Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin updated you on all the new toys being found in stores. With Issue 73 they start their detailed reviews of these products. Listen to hear a review of the first three Iron Man 3 6-inch Marvel Legends figures. With some reuse of old molds and no movie based sculpts, hear the Marvelicious Toys review to see if these are worth your money.Arnie also has a hands on review of Diamond Select’s new Venom figure. With a classic sclupts and multiple heads and hands, hear his thoughts on if this is a good buy for a Select-ive collector.Then Marjorie indulges in her favorite collecting niche of blind bagged items as she literally tears into Ultimate Spider-Man Fighter Pods and Iron Man 3 Micro Muggs! There are even some blind packaged Spider-Man toys in the Easter candy aisle at Target. Listen to get a hands on review of these products!With some PJs that make you say pee-yew, an new entry into 12-inch Marvel figures, and more, it’s all in this jam-packed issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

(Correction: On the show the hosts refer to the Fighter Pods as “Spectacular Spider-Man”. The Fighter Pods are actually “Ultimate Spider-Man”)

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT073.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 13, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 73: Double Blind

New Podcast: Issue 72: Super-Size Store Report

At New York’s Toy Fair the new toys of 2013 were revealed to press and corporate buyers. But for collectors don’t have to go to the web to see the new toys, they can just head to their local toy aisle! New action figures from all of Hasbro’s major lines are hitting stores including Iron Man 3, Marvel Universe, Iron Man Marvel Legends, Iron Man Micro Mugs, Spider-Man& Fighter Pods, Chibis, Pop Vinyl, and so much more! Listen to this week’s podcast to find out which stores have new toys to buy!Not only are there new toys in stores, but online preorders for new collectibles have hit as well. From Sideshow there is a new Bronze Spider-Man and an exclusive Ultron comiquette. And Hot Toys offers up a Power Pose Iron Man Mark 42. The hosts give their impressions of the new offerings on this show.With a long lost Iron Man 2 figure set hitting the UK and eBay and a patch of Potato Heads, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT072.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 6, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 72: Super-Size Store Report

New Podcast: Issue 71: Toy Fair 2013 Part 3 – Statues, Toys & More!

While Hasbro is the core of many Marvel toy collectors, there was much shown at Toy Fair 2013 for fans of LEGO, high end statues, Diamond Select figures and Mini Mates to be happy about! Previewing the products that will consume your wish list in 2013, Marjorie and Arnie bring you reports recorded live from the floor of Toy Fair, including exclusive interviews with Uncle Milton, Kotobukiya, and more!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT071.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 22, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 71: Toy Fair 2013 Part 3 – Statues, Toys & More!

New Podcast: Issue 70: Toy Fair 2013 Part 2 – Hasbro Marvel Brand Presentation

Hasbro had lots of news and reveals for Marvel collectors at this year’s Toy Fair 2013. Several new waves of Marvel Universe and Marvel Legends figures, figure lines typing into the releases of Iron Man 3, The Wolverine, and Thor 2, toys for the animated Avengers Assemble and Ultimate Spider-Man cartoons, and more!But you’ve heard Justin, Marjorie & Arnie’s thoughts, now hear from Hasbro themselves as we present their entire Marvel Brand Fan Media presentation! Then when you’re done listening, let us know your thoughts! Leave us a voicemail at 803-MARVEL4 or send an MP3 to show@marvelicious.com so we can record your reaction to all the Star Wars Toy Fair collecting news!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT070.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 17, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 70: Toy Fair 2013 Part 2 – Hasbro Marvel Brand Presentation

New Podcast: Issue 69: Toy Fair 2013 Part 1 – Hasbro

Toy Fair 2013 is here and Marvelicious Toys is your podcast source for Marvel comics collecting news coverage! On this podcast, Justin, Marjorie and Arnie recap and review the Hasbro Fan Media presentation. From the Marvel Legends, Marvel Universe, Ultimate Spider-Man, Wolverine, Avengers Assemble, Thor 2, Fighter Pods, Micro Muggs, and more. Listen in for some astonishing news of X-Men figures to come, a run-down on new figures, and Hasbro’s plans for all three Marvel comics based films this year! With an exclusive interview with a member of Hasbro’s Marvel brand team, it’s all this and more in the first part of Marvelicious Toys’ 2013 Toy Fair Coverage!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT069.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 10, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 69: Toy Fair 2013 Part 1 – Hasbro

New Podcast: Issue 68: Would You Like To Touch My Hit Monkey?

It’s not in stores, but the first new Marvel Legends figures of 2013 have been shipping from online vendors. Now Marvelicious Toys host Justin has the wave in hand, and he joins Marjorie and Arnie to review the six new figures in this wave, as well as the smallest build-a-figure yet–Hit Monkey! Listen to this week’s podcast to find out which variants are shipping first, and if this is a wave worth ordering.

Also on this week’s podcast, as the hosts await the new toy news coming out of this weekend’s Toy Fair they scour the web to find some of the oddest Marvel collectibles online.

With a chance to win a Diamond Select Barbarian Hulk figure and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT068.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 6, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 68: Would You Like To Touch My Hit Monkey?

New Podcast: Issue 67: Official Bootleg

New York Toy Fair, where toy makers reveal their 2013 products to wholesale buyers and press alike, is just a week away. But over the past week, due to Toy Fair in the UK, Marvel toy makers of all types have announced their 2013 plans. From Hasbro to Hot Toys to Diamond to totally new companies entering the Marvel market. Die cast figures, statues in every scale, four inch figures, six inch figures, eight inch figures, twelve inch figures, and so much more, and on this week’s Marvelicious Toys we try to make sense of all the exciting new collectibles coming in 2013!

But while there are new high end products coming in many scales, the announcements from Hasbro have been met with a more tepid response from adult Marvel collectors. It seems Hasbro is focusing on play features and low cost rather than articulation, paint apps, and sculpts. Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review all the news for the Hasbro 3.75-inch and 6-inch lines and discuss the future of Hasbro and Marvel collectors.

With a chance to win a Diamond Select Barbarian Hulk figure and so much more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT067.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 30, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 67: Official Bootleg

New Podcast: Issue 66: Iron Man 3 — Fall of Armor

While still five months away, Iron Man 3 promotion has begun in the toy store aisle. Hasbro’s 10-inch and 15-inch figures have started to show up at Toys R Us, but what collectors really wonder about is the upcoming 3.75-inch line of figures. While Hasbro is keeping mum until Toy Fair in February, Marvelicious Toys has gotten three of the upcoming figures! The Iron Man Mark 47, War Machine, and Iron Patriot War Machine are reviewed in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Also on this week’s show, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review two SMASH-ing figures from Diamond Select, the Unleashed Hulk and Barbarian Hulk figures. How do these two figures compare, and which parts are reused from figure to figure? Listen as the Marvelicious Toys podcast hosts give a detailed review.

Plus YOU CAN WIN a Barbarian Hulk from Marvelicious Toys and Diamond Select! Listen to find out how. All this and more in this week’s issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT066.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 16, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 66: Iron Man 3 — Fall of Armor

New Podcast: Issue 65: Buy Less Trash

It’s a new year and Marvelicious Toys is back looking forward to all the new toys that are coming! From the Hit Monkey wave of Marvel Legends, the Angel wave of Marvel Universe, and even Iron Man 3 figures, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they reveal their collecting resolutions of the new year, and review new additions to each of their Marvel collections obtained over the holidays! With new preorders from Sideshow, Hot Toys, and more, it’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT065.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 9, 2013 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 65: Buy Less Trash

New Podcast: Issue 64: Toys of Future Past 2012 Part 2–The Comic Toys

It’s been a tremendous year for Marvel fans and collectors. Marvel Legends returned in a big way, Marvel Universe continued to fill out the ranks of Marvel heroes and villains, and Avengers came out and was a movie that actually lived up to the hype.

In this issue of Marvelicious Toys, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin, as well as Marvel collectors Geof, Jayson, Jerry, and Dan Curto in this second part of the 2012 year in review as they look back at the comic based Marvel Universe and Marvel Legends figures of 2012 as well as the high end collectibles that made a dent in their wallet this year!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT064.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 26, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 64: Toys of Future Past 2012 Part 2–The Comic Toys

New Podcast: Issue 63: Toys of Future Past 2012 Part 1–The Movie Lines

It’s been a tremendous year for Marvel fans and collectors. Marvel Legends returned in a big way, Marvel Universe continued to fill out the ranks of Marvel heroes and villains, and Avengers came out and was a movie that actually lived up to the hype.

In this issue of Marvelicious Toys, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin, as well as Marvel collectors Geof, Jayson, Jerry, and Dan Curto in this first part of the 2012 year in review as they look back at the Marvel Movies of 2012 and the toys and collectibles that they brought!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT063.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 19, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 63: Toys of Future Past 2012 Part 1–The Movie Lines

New Podcast: Issue 62: Iron Monger — More Advanced In Every Way

They made Iron Man in every armor seen in the films, and some not seen. They made two War Machines, Whiplash, and even Black Widow. So for Hot Toys to continue the Iron Man figure line it was time to go big or go home, so they go big. Very big. Arriving at homes last week is the biggest Marvel Hot Toys figure to date–Iron Monger! As seen in 2008’s Iron Man and with a meticulously detailed head with Jeff Bridges’ portrait, it’s a big toy, but comes with a big price tag. Listen to this week’s podcast to find out if its worth it!

Also this week, from big to small, the Marvelicious Toys hosts also review the new Diamond Venom Through the Ages Minimates box set, and a new line of HeroClix figures released along with an iPad app to play HeroClix single player!

With new plushies and blankets, a blonde Black Widow Marvel Universe figure, and so much more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT062.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 12, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 62: Iron Monger — More Advanced In Every Way

New Podcast: Issue 61: X-Men 90’s Style

The holidays are in full swing and it’s a great season for Marvel fans, with new Marvel Universe figures hitting pegs and discounted items all around. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin tell you where you can find the latest figures and the greatest bargains. Plus we play some listener voicemails, hearing your thoughts on new figures and what you’ve been finding.

Also this week, your hosts run down the latest on line sales, from the most recent Avengers Hot Toys figure to a huge Bearbrick announcement and even preorders for upcoming waves of Hasbro Marvel Universe and Marvel Legends figures.

With a Timely Review of a 90’s X-Men enemy and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT061.MP3

Category: Arts

    

December 5, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 61: X-Men 90’s Style

New Podcast: Issue 60: Sweet Christmas – Black Friday Sales & Holiday Gift Guide 2012

It’s Thanksgiving Day in America. Parades are on TV, and stores are opening earlier than ever before to bring you savings on all types of goods, including Marvel toys, games, and collectibles! So join Marvelicious Toys for the third annual Sweet Christmas episode, as Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie run down all the sales on Marvel goodies.

And then the Marvelicious hosts run down their suggestions for holiday gifts for the Marvel collector in your life. Toys, statues, books, games, and DVDs, listen in as they cover the entire gamut of gifts!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT060.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 22, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 60: Sweet Christmas – Black Friday Sales & Holiday Gift Guide 2012

New Podcast: Issue 59: Hasbro’s Future Imperfect

It’s early in November, but the stores want us to think it’s Holiday time, virtually New Year’s, so why not look towards the toys of 2013? Hasbro’s plans for 2013 have leaked, including a line of toys based on the Ultimate Spider-Man and Avengers Assemble cartoons, customizable Iron Man 3 figures, Spider Pods, and more! We run it down on this week’s podcast!

And did you buy The Amazing Spider-Man last week? We run down the retail exclusives and which are worth capturing in your web. And we also review more Amazing Spider-Man figures, this time the figure 3-packs found at TJ Maxx and HasbroToyShop.com. We even review the Build-A-Bear Amazing Spider-Man outfit!

With a hands-on review of two rare figures, Old Man Logan and unmasked War Machine, a sneak peek of Marvel Universe Wave 20, fashion accessories for action figures, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT059.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 15, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 59: Hasbro’s Future Imperfect

New Podcast: Issue 58: The Marvelicious Spider-Man

Though the glut of Amazing Spider-Man figures hit early last summer, there are still plenty of new Amazing Spider-Man comic series figures to find–if you know where to look! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review the on-line exclusive Amazing Spider-Man Gift Set, the Miles Morales Ultimate Spider-Man figure, and a Spider-Man 3 pack you can only find down under!

Also on this week’s show, we give a cautionary tale of preorders gone wrong telling you where NOT to shop, and review all four Kotobukiya Bishoujo Black Widow Statues.

Plus hard to find team packs finally hitting stores and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT058.MP3

Category: Arts

    

November 7, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 58: The Marvelicious Spider-Man

New Podcast: Issue 57: Keeping Cool

Stores are ramping up for the holiday toy-buying spree, but for Marvel collectors new product can be hard to find. But there are toys to hunt for! Listen to this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast to hear where Marvel Legend’s third wave of 2012 is showing up, as well as more variant 6-inch Wal Mart figures shipping and some TJ Maxx specials.

And there’s even more to be had online. Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review two new comic packs available from Hasbro Toy Shop.com, including the Captain America and Falcon pack and the Silver Surfer, Dr. Strange pack.

With a new Japanese collectible to keep an eye out for, a Premium Deadpool you may be chicken to buy, and more than just the temperature cooling, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys Podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT057.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 31, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 57: Keeping Cool

New Podcast: Issue 56: The Variant Show

Variants! Love ’em or hate ’em, if you collect Hasbro’s Avengers figures you have to decide which version of the figure you want, or perhaps you want both! At Wal-Mart, there are variants of the six-inch exclusive Avengers figures. At Target there is a 3.75″ set of Avengers figures most of which differ from their single-carded counterparts. And at Costco there is a Quinjet set that not only has a repainted vehicle but also two repainted figures! On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast, Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie detail the differences between the versions of the figures and tell you if they prefer the regular release or the variant!

Also on this week’s show we bring more Marvel collecting news from New York Comic-Con! Mitch Hallock was in attendance every day of the con, and brings us his reports of what cool new toys he saw, as well as interviews with Kotobukiya and Comic Images!

With a new Bishoujo you can buy with Pryde, Agent Coulson’s trading cards, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT056.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 24, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 56: The Variant Show

New Podcast: Issue 55: Oh man…LOGAN!!

Collectors always want what they haven’t got, and this week what you probably don’t have is an Old Man Logan figure. Initially stated to be released at New York Comic-Con to subscribers to Marvel’s Digital Comics Unlimited, many con goers waited in line to find out that Marvel had no Logan, but just the same Dr. Doom figure they had last year. On this week’s Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie run down the facts and the rumors surrounding this kit-bashed exclusive.

Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie report from the Toy Man Toy Show in St. Louis, and Fallcon in St. Paul, MN. Listen to find out about the toys from the 90s through today as toy show bargains!

With reports of two new exclusive items hitting shelves, some barware that is the best bar none, discussion of 3 new Marvel Legends, and more, it’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT055.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 18, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 55: Oh man…LOGAN!!

New Podcast: Issue 54: Stuart Moore’s Civil War

Civil War is one of the most successful crossover events in Marvel history. Pitting hero against hero, it both fulfilled fanboy fantasies answering the endless “who would win in a fight…” debates, and also providing an intelligent allegory for real-world American politics. Now, as part of the new Marvel prose novel series, the Civil War is being fought again–this time in a streamlined, novelized form. On this issue of Marvleicious Toys, Civil War prose novel author Stuart Moore discusses the genesis of the novel, what it takes to adapt an arc of Civil War’s size to a single book, and the future of the Marvel prose novels.

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT054.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 10, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 54: Stuart Moore’s Civil War

New Podcast: Issue 53: Lights, Camera, Action Figures!!

What’s cooler than a Lizard figure? A Lizard figure that GLOWS IN THE DARK! At least that’s what Hasbro thinks! A Toys R Us exclusive line of glow-in-the-dark Amazing Spider-Man figures has shown up in stores, and on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin see if this is a bright spot for collectors, or a dim-witted gimmick.

Also on this week’s podcast, we take another look at the fourth wave of Avengers figures showing up coast to coast, discuss a Classic new line of Sideshow collectibles, and use our Nog’nz when looking at a new line of Marvel toys from the makers of Grab Zags. It’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT053.MP3

Category: Arts

    

October 3, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 53: Lights, Camera, Action Figures!!

New Podcast: Issue 52: Legends Accessorize

Hasbro has returned to 6-inch Marvel figures big time in 2012, and now shipping to stores is the third Marvel Legends wave of the year! With Deadpool, Mystique, Dr. Doom, Punisher, Iron Man, and U.S. Agent, we have them all and review them on this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Also this week, Halloween is coming and with it come tons of Marvel costumes in different variations, plus Jack-O-Lantern kits, non-edible trick-or-treat items, and more. For both adults and kids, we discuss it on this week’s podcast.

With bargain Marvel dog toys, Build-A-Bears, the Avengers Blu Ray release, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast! Plus listen to win a copy of The Avengers on Blu-Ray and DVD!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT052.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 26, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 52: Legends Accessorize

New Podcast: Issue 51: Straining the Lizard

It’s time for another weekly issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast, and in this issue we discuss the tons of new figures hitting stores. We discuss the Wal-Mart exclusive six-inch Amazing Spider-Man figures, including Miles Morales as Ultimate Spider-Man, and the Toys R Us exclusive Glow-in-the-dark 3.75-inch figures, and the 4th wave of Avengers figures with Nick Fury, the Chitauri soldier, and a more articulated Iron Man!

With details on Amazon giving away Avengers Blu-Rays, a sale on Gentle Giant Marvel mini-busts, and a new Marvel licensee releasing 18-inch Marvel figures, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys, with Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT051.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 19, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 51: Straining the Lizard

New Podcast: Issue 50: A Brief Case for the Briefcase

The announcement of Marvel’s Phase One Blu Ray Collector’s Set was met with a mixed reaction. No one could doubt the coolness of the special artwork and the supplemental materials included with the set, but the high price, and the fact that most Marvel fans already own all the films leading up to Avengers, put off some buyers. But it turns out that Rimowa GmbH, manufacturers of the briefcase used in the film, didn’t give permission for Marvel to copy it for the collector’s set, and now the Blu Ray set is delayed until Spring. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie discuss this development, why it happened, and speculate on the set’s future.

But with one exclusive gone, two more pop up in its place! In a follow-up on the conversation from Issue 49, listen to find out about all-new exclusive items that you can get with the Avengers Blu-Ray.

And for toy collectors, we have a hands-on review of all the figures in Marvel Universe Wave 19. Kang, Scarlet Witch, Future Foundation Spider-Man, Punisher, and She-Hulk! Listen to find out if this wave was worth the wait!

With all this and a flying Helicarrier too, it’s all in Marvelicious Toys Issue 50!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT050.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 12, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 50: A Brief Case for the Briefcase

New Podcast: Issue 49: What a piece of Chit-auri

Hasbro is shipping tons of new figures right now. Avengers Wave 4 with Nick Fury and the basic Chitauri, the new Deluxe Chitauri, variant six-inch Avengers figures, a new wave of Marvel Legends, and two waves of Marvel Universe! All combined make it a great time to be a Marvel toy collector, and we run down all the new releases and where you can find them on this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast. New figures from this year, and hard to find figures from last year, Justin has the scoop on where you can get them yourself!

For the high-end Marvel collector new items are released as well. Hot Toys put up for pre-order their second Wolverine figure, this one from X-Men 3: The Last Stand. With a sentinel head and a leather-like outfit, listen to hear the hosts’ thoughts on this latest 1/6 scale figure.

Finally, Avengers was in theaters this past week, but the DVD is coming soon and every major retailer has an exclusive bag, print, disc, or comic to go along with it. We run down all the exclusives and rank which ones you have to have. It’s all this and more in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT049.MP3

Category: Arts

    

September 5, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 49: What a piece of Chit-auri

New Podcast: Issue 48: Beta Wave Bill

With the high profile launches of Avengers and Amazing Spider-Man figures, plus Marvel Legends returning in a big way, Hasbro’s core 3.75-inch Marvel Universe line has been stagnent, with collectors staring at the same white-outfit Iron Fist and Shadowlands Daredevil since Spring. But on this episode of the Marvelicious Toys podcast the spotlight is right back on Marvel Universe! Wave 18 has hit stores, Wave 19 is showing up as well, and there are seven new comic packs too! With all new sculpts, repaints of some old sculpts, and the return of some older figures, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down 20 new Marvel Universe figures on this podcast!

Also on this show, we have a Hulk! A Hot Toys Hulk that is. The green giant that stole the show in The Avengers has finally gone on preorder from Sideshow and Hot Toys. We run down the figure’s scale, articulation, and features.

With Avengers Superhero Squad, MODOK Minimates, and a report on Wizard World’s Chicago Comic Con, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT048.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 16, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 48: Beta Wave Bill

New Podcast: Issue 47: Tanya Tate and Toys

Back from San Diego Comic-Con, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin have finally had time to open the toys they bought! Marvel Legends Archangel, Marvel Universe Radioactive Man, and the Super Helicarrier! On this issue of Marvelicious Toys they review all the Hasbro SDCC exclusives, and also run down the new Superhero Squad and Marvel Universe figures hitting stores right now!

Also in this issue, the hosts are joined by toy blogger Tanya Tate! She discusses how she got started collecting, her first time at San Diego Comic-Con, and how fans of her adult film work meld with fans of her toy reviews.

With news on not one but three new Hot Toys, SDCC variant Comic-Cons showing up at discount stores, and a Ferrigno collectible that’s not FIT to own, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT047.MP3

Category: Arts

    

August 1, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 47: Tanya Tate and Toys

New Podcast: Issue 46: Comic-Con 2012 — The Marvel Universe Grows…

Comic-Con International always brings an onslaught of news, but this year Comic Con brings the biggest issue of Marvelicious Toys ever!

First, the toys and collectibles revealed were too many to number. From Hot Toys, Sideshow Collectibles, Diamond Select, Hasbro Marvel Universe, Marvel Legends, and more, we run down all the highlights of the toys you’ll want to buy over the entire next year, as well as in-person reviews of many of these items.

And to dig deeper into the collectibles, we bring you an exclusive interview with Hasbro’s Marvel brand team, discussing Marvel Universe and Marvel Legends distribution, build-a-figures, and a Big Time problem with a certain figure. We also have exclusive interviews with Kotobukiya discussing their Fine Art Statues and Bishoujo statues, Hallmark looking at their Keepsake ornaments for 2012 and 2013, Gentle Giant talking about their upcoming mini-busts, statues, bookends, and more, and eFX Collectibles giving us on-sale and price information of their Avengers prop replicas, some of which you’ve seen and some of which you haven’t!

But if all that isn’t enough, we also look at Marvel’s information on their Cinematic Universe Phase II! Be bring you a private press conference with Marvel Universe mastermind Kevin Fiege, Iron Man 3 stars Robert Downey Jr. and Don Cheadle, and Iron Man 3 director Shane Black, talking about the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Iron Man’s place in it! And we run down the news and footage shown in Marvel Studios’ big presentation, including a look at the Mark VIII armor of Iron Man 3, and some test footage of Ant-Man!

Yes, true collectors, all of that and so much more is in this Comic-Con Special from Marvelicious Toys! So listen now, and head to MarveliciousToys.com to see pictures of all the items (and people) talked about on the show!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT046.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 17, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 46: Comic-Con 2012 — The Marvel Universe Grows…

New Podcast: Issue 45: A Toy Run That Paid Off BIG TIME

It’s another bonus issue of Marvelicious Toys!

While San Diego Comic-Con International looms large in the minds of collectors, some great new Marvel toys and collectibles are showing up in stores and on doorsteps! To bring you the latest in Marvel Collecting, Marjorie, Arnie, Justin, and guest reviewer Berent are here to review it all! The alternate versions of the four Marvel Legends Wave 2 figures have shown up, with Big Time Spider-Man, masked Dark Wolverine, Madam Masque, and Thunderball! Plus, a third wave of Amazing Spider-Man figures have hit with three new Spider-Mans and a new Lizard, and a special bonus–a variant of the first Lizard figure! With new Marvel pillows, Squinkies, and an Avengers 3-figure Battle Pack, we provide hands-on reviews of it all!

But for the high end collectors, an item revealed at last year’s Comic-Con has finally come home–the Iron Man Suit Up Gantry. With a re-release of the now-rare Iron Man Mark IV Hot Toys figure, and the suit-up gantry as seen in Iron Man 2, it’s an impressive piece that comes with an equally impressive price tag! Arnie and Marjorie have set theirs up. Listen to find out if this is a Hot Toy that you must own!

With a final Marvel novelization review, Peter David’s Spider-Man 3, a report from the St. Louis Toy Man Toy Show, and the latest on all the SDCC exclusives hitting in just 2 days, it’s all in yet another jam-packed Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT045.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 9, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 45: A Toy Run That Paid Off BIG TIME

New Podcast: Issue 44: Holy Ballz!

San Diego Comic-Con International is still 2 weeks away, but now you can order many of the exclusives to be delivered to your doorstep! Eschewing the common idea of “exclusive”, many companies including Sideshow, Gentle Giant, Kotobukiya, and Diamond Select Toys have Comic-Con exclusives up for non-attendee pre-order already. Click, add to cart, and get them in, and on this Marvelicious Toys podcast Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin tell you about all the exclusives up for pre-order for delivery, pre-order to pick up at the con, or that you have to physically be at the con and wait in line to get! From a bust of Thanos to Rescue Mission Captain America to a pair of mutants you wont want to miss, we run it down in this issue!

But not all collectibles are saved for the con, new Hasbro toys are shipping and we’ve got ’em! Arnie and Marjorie received the toy that’s been teased since Toy Fair — The Avengers Helicarrier! Over 3 feet long with a bevy of guns and play features, we have assembled it and are here to give you our hands-on review, as well as comparisons to the images released of the San Diego Comic-Con exclusive version, and an idea on how you may be able to build your own hella-big Helicarrier! Also shipping is a new variant of the Marvel Universe Fantastic Four Team Pack with a fully translucent Invisible Woman! Is the variant worth another purchase? Listen to find out!

With a hands-on review of Bonkazonks, a brand new body for a Black Widow, the new Amazing Spider-Spud, and a mismatched pair of Spider-Man Beanie Ballz, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT044.MP3

Category: Arts

    

July 1, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 44: Holy Ballz!

New Podcast: Issue 43: Secret Stores

Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin are back with a bonus episode of Marvelicious Toys! With so many new toy releases grabbing collectors’ attention, on this issue your Marvelicious hosts look at some older toys that have been found at antique stores, toy stores, comic stores, and elsewhere. Looking at the first dedicated Marvel figure line, Mattel’s Secret Wars, as well as Toy Biz figures from all eras, including a super-sized super-articulated Spider-Man! And when discussing these older Marvel toys no one knows more than Marvelicious Timely Review host Jerry, who joins the others to share the history behind some of these older toy purchases and share a couple unique buys of his own.

But not all the toys are old. Marjorie has also picked up some Japanese Ultimate Spider-Man blind boxed figures. Listen as she opens them live and gives her first-blush reaction!

With Arnie reviewing Peter David’s novelization of Spider-Man 2 to tie into Now Playing’s Spider-Man movie review series, and a run down of the Wal-Mart Amazing Spider-Man DVD, it’s all in this bonus Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT043.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 25, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 43: Secret Stores

New Podcast: Issue 42: Let’s Go Bigger

Big news for Marvel collectors was revealed in the past two weeks from Hasbro, to the official announcement of Wave 4 Avengers figures to the news of the San Diego Comic Con exclusive Masters of Evil pack, X-Force Marvel Legends, and an even larger than usual Helicarrier with exclusive Maria Hill figure! On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast, Marjorie, Arnie, Justin, and guest co-host Jerry run down all the news on San Diego Comic Con exclusives, large and small!

But new toys aren’t reserved for San Diego, they’re hitting your local Toys R Us, Target, and Wal Mart! Also in this week’s podcast, your Marvelicious hosts review all the new Avengers figures showing up in stores, including the 6-inch Wal Mart exclusive Avengers figures, the 3.75-inch Avengers Wave 3 with Black Widow, Hawkeye, and Skrull, the second wave of the comic-based Avengers figures at Toys R Us with the light-up “Avengers Assemble” bases, and even the 2-inch figures with no articulation seen at discount shops!

And from Avengers to Amazing Spider-Man toys, we also run down on this week’s show some of the less action-y figures showing up in stores. Including the new set of Amazing Spider-Man movie Squinkies, the Toys R Us released Mini-Mates, the 8-inch figures found early at discount shops, the 2-inch statues, the new movie-styled FunKo Pop Vinyl, and even the 10-inch talking Spider-Man with web shooting action!

With Jerry also providing an Action-oriented Timely Review, the hosts thoughts on Bonkazonks, and news of a new Marvel video game, hear it all in this super-sized Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT042.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 16, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 42: Let’s Go Bigger

New Podcast: Issue 41: What the Helicarrier Is Going On?

Avengers 6-inch figures are showing up at Wal-Marts, but blink and you miss them…and if you head to eBay you’ll be paying a pretty penny if your target is Hawkeye. In the 4-inch line, Wave 3 is equally there and gone, and no sign when the Chitauri figures might be coming. Marvel Legends are equally enigmatic with an upcoming revision case that seems to help few, and certainly not get the variants out there. And yet Wal-Mart has 4-packs that no one knew were coming showing up on shelves, which just leaves Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin asking…WHAT THE HELICARRIER IS GOING ON?

On this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast, your hosts run down the latest store reports, including an in-depth review of all the new Amazing Spider-Man movie line of figures and Super Hero Squad. Plus a review of the Avengers’ Skrull figure, and the Wal-Mart exclusive 6-inch Captain America.

Also on this week’s show, we catch you up on the Hot Toys assault from Avengers to Amazing Spider-Man, and the latest products from Diamond Select, Kotobukiya, Bowen, and Sideshow.

With a review of Peter David’s novelization of Spider-Man, a Fantastic Forum Poll, and fun big and small, it’s on this action-packed super-sized Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT041.MP3

Category: Arts

    

June 1, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 41: What the Helicarrier Is Going On?

New Podcast: Issue 40: Collectors Assemble

We’ve been reviewing the figures, the Squinkies, the statues, and even singing songs in anticipation of the film’s release. And what a release it was! The film has lived up to the hype, shattering box office records and satisfying audiences and critics alike.

Now on this issue of Marvelicious Toys Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin are joined by a crew of Marvel fans and collectors: Marvelicious Podcast Enhancer Berent, our Photo Editor Geof, Timely Review segment host Jerry, and long time Marvel collector and fan Dan Curto! The group get together to discuss the action figures, mini-busts, Hot Toys, and impulse buys that the film has inspired them to buy!

And when you get a group of friends together right after seeing this awesome film we can’t help but also share our thoughts on the film, so listen to this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast and then come to our forums and let us know what you thought of the film!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT040.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 16, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 40: Collectors Assemble

New Podcast: Issue 39: Avengers – Come Together

Did you know Avengers opens this Friday? You may not need a TV ad to remind you as promotional tie-in products are everywhere. From lip gloss to body wash to sporting goods, Avengers hype is unescapable! And among the most hyped are the Marvelicious Toys hosts Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie. With Avengers figures flying off the shelves and no new figures being spotted from any of the lines, they find new collectibles and toys to bide their time. Listen on this week’s podcast as they review a variety of Avengers tie-ins from Chibis to Grab Zags, from Pop Vinyl bobbleheads to Heroics mini-figures.

Plus Jerry is in on the excitement, biding his time with Avengers toys and cartoons of yesteryear. In this issue Jerry looks back at the short-lived Avengers: United They Stand TV series, and the toys that tied into it.

With a review of the Iron Man 2 novelization, a new Hot Toy Avenger, some Select collectibles, and a new line of statues that prove it’s not easy being green, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys Podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT039.MP3

Category: Arts

    

May 1, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 39: Avengers – Come Together

New Podcast: Issue 38: Quinjet Down

The Avengers marketing machine is in full swing with new items from Dr. Pepper cans to Legos to Grab Zags blind packaged figures, and the hosts of Marvelicious Toys are caught in the upcoming movie’s thrall. On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast, Arnie discusses his fascination with The Avengers Assemble trading cards from Upper Deck, Marjorie runs down the new Avengers Squinkies and Mighty Muggs, and even Justin breaks down and buys the Deluxe Captain America parachuting figure. All these items are reviewed, as well as the remote control Avengers Quinjet!

Also on this week’s issue, last weekend was C2E2 in Chicago and Marjorie and Arnie were there to cover the event, as well as the much-discussed Captain America: The First Avenger prop auction. They went with checkbook in hand planning to buy a prop actually used in the movie. Did they? And were there other toy bargains at the show on Marvel Universe, Marvel Legends, or older Toy Biz figures? Listen to find out!

With a C2E2 interview with Diamond about their Select figures, Minimates, and busts, an Avengers-themed Timely Review from Jerry, an Incredible Hulk book review by Arnie, and another Avengers song from Fiverr, it’s all in this jam-packed issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT038.MP3

Category: Arts

    

April 16, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 38: Quinjet Down

New Podcast: Issue 37: Build Your Own Arnie Zola

Pile Driver, Madam Hydra, Bucky as Captain America, Daken as Dark Wolverine, and many more figures are found in the second wave of Hasbro’s 2012 Marvel Legends figure line. With articulation not seen since the Toy Biz days, but a higher price than ever before, should you add these to your collection? On this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie review the first seven figures in the wave, and tell you which variants to keep an eye out for. And for collectors wanting toys at a cheaper price point, they also review the new wave of figures showing up at Family Dollar!

Also in this issue, Arnie continues to supplement Now Playing Podcast’s Avengers movie retrospective with a review of Peter David’s Iron Man movie novelization.

With a new Avengers song from Fiverr, the Avengers soundtrack, Avengers trading cards, and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT037.MP3

Category: Arts

    

April 1, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 37: Build Your Own Arnie Zola

New Podcast: Issue 36: Jaw Dropping Hasbro News

Hulk, Iron Man, Hawkeye, Thor, Loki, and Captain America! All these Avengers figures have assembled across the country as Hasbro’s big promotional push for the upcoming blockbuster begins. Figures in 4-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch scale, plus vehicles, battle mechs, role-play toys, and so much more! Hear Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin provide detailed reviews of the first two waves of Avengers 3.75″ figures, plus assorted other Avengers toys, in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Also in this issue, it was recently announced that they were laying off 170 people including top managers to “bring new skill sets” into the company. Among the layoffs was Marvel Brand Manager and friend of Marvelicious Toys David Vonner. Listen to this episode to hear the hosts’ thoughts on what this could mean for the future of our comic collecting hobby.

With new Marvel Legends Wave 2 figures, a sexy Storm statue, and another Avengers movie song, it’s all in this jam-packed giant-sized podcast, so listen now!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT036.MP3

Category: Arts

    

March 16, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 36: Jaw Dropping Hasbro News

Marvel and Aurasma Unveil “Marvel Augmented Reality” at SXSW

AUSTIN, Texas – March 12, 2012 – Yesterday, at the SXSW Interactive Festival, Marvel Entertainment unveiled Marvel AR, the first major augmented reality app from a comic book company. As part of the recently announced Marvel ReEvolution, which brings the world of print and digital media together for a comics experience like never before, the Marvel AR app powered by Aurasma will be released on April 2 for iOS and Android devices. Fans can first discover the power of this new app in Avengers VS X-Men #1, arriving in comic stores on April 4 and kicking off the comic book event of the year in which the world’s most popular Super Heroes go to war!

By opening this app and scanning select Marvel products featuring the Marvel AR logo, you’ll unlock exclusive content starring the world’s most popular super heroes — including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Hulk and many others! Go behind the scenes of your favorite comics, see new footage, hear from creators, get caught up on past events and more!

“It’s time to join the Marvel ReEvolution, as we bring the worlds of print and digital media together for an unprecedented fan experience,” said Peter Phillips, senior vice president and general manager, Marvel Digital Media Group. “Avengers VS X-Men is the biggest story we’ve ever told and teaming with Aurasma allows us to bring our fans a deeper experience when they purchase select Marvel comics and other Marvel products. Just wait till you see what we’ve planned!”

Marvel partnered with Aurasma, the world’s leading augmented reality platform, to create a mobile experience designed to empower fans to discover a new world of content that brings their favorite Super Heroes to life through tablets and mobile devices. Aurasma’s cutting-edge image recognition technology enables the Marvel AR app to recognize images in new Marvel comic books, promotional posters and other merchandise, seamlessly augmenting the images with interactive virtual content such as videos, animations and more.

“Marvel is no stranger to digital media and is once again making history, this time by using Aurasma’s transformative technology to bridge the physical world with the virtual,” said, David Stone, Aurasma’s director of client services. “What better way to excite and engage fans than to give them the power to interact with all of their favorite characters in a new way?”

Aurasma’s free platform unlocks a whole new dimension for partners to creatively enhance the real world. In this case, comic books will reach new depths by unleashing coveted and fan-pleasing content like director and editor commentary and other special features, only accessible through the Marvel AR app.

The Marvel AR companion app, powered by Aurasma, will be available for free in April at the Apple App Store and Android Market.

March 12, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, News, Tech | , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel and Aurasma Unveil “Marvel Augmented Reality” at SXSW

New Podcast: Issue 35: Articulating the Problem

Across the country Avengers are assembling in toy aisles. Mini Muggs, 3.75-inch figures, 6-inch figures, 10-inch figures, vehicles, role play toys and more! The glut of Avengers merchandise is hitting harder than Hulk, and on this week’s Marvelicious Toys Podcast Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin review several of these new toys. Listen to find out why Justin left the figures on the pegs, and what caused Arnie to buy the 10-inch talking figures!

Also this week, we run down the first Hot Toys Avenger figure — Nick Fury, and review the other Avengers Hot Toys announced will soon be joining Fury on your toy shelf. With a life-sized Daredevil bust, Marjorie’s pool toy purchase, a Legendary stealthy bust, and an Avengers rap, it’s all on this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT035.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 29, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 35: Articulating the Problem

New Podcast: Issue 34: Toy Fair 2012–From the Floor: The Shocking Second Issue!

In our last issue you heard the Hasbro brand presentation. Now in
the second part of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Toy Fair coverage,
Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down all things in Marvel collecting
coming in 2012! From new Marvel Legends figures to Marvel Universe
waves, Avengers figures, Diamond Select, Mighty Muggs, and so much more!

Plus we bring you eight interviews from the
companies presenting at Toy Fair! Kotobukiya with their new Bishoujo,
Fine Art, and Art FX statues, Ty introducing their new line of Marvel
Beanie Balls, Top Trumps discussing their Marvel card game, and more
including an in-depth discussion with Jads International about their
upcoming line of Avengers cologne How do they decide what scent Hulk
should have? We reveal all in this podcast!

With more Avengers merchandise than you can possibly
assemble in one lifetime, and so much more, it’s all in this issue of
the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT034.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 20, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 34: Toy Fair 2012–From the Floor: The Shocking Second Issue!

New Podcast: Issue 33: Hasbro Marvel Brand Presentation

Toy Fair 2012 is in full swing, and with The Avengers and The Amazing
Spider-Man hitting theaters, it’s a Marvelicious year for movie-based toys. Last Saturday Hasbro made several announcements regarding their
movie-based Marvel lines, as well as new figures for Marvel Universe,
Marvel Legends, Superhero Squad, and many other lines of toys!

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie, Justin, and Arnie bring you
the Hasbro Marvel Brand Presentation and talk about some of the Amazing
product hitting store shelves this spring! So take a listen, and then join
us next week as we talk Avengers figures, the rest of the Hasbro
announcements, and all the other items from Diamond Select, Funko, and more
at Toy Fair!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT033.MP3

Category: Arts

    

February 11, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 33: Hasbro Marvel Brand Presentation

New Podcast: Issue 32: A Toy Run That is Legend – wait for it – ary!

Since last July when the figures were first shown at San Diego Comic Con Marvel fans have been anxiously awaiting the return of Marvel Legends figures. Well the wait is over–Hasbro’s new Marvel Legends figures are showing up at Targets and Toys R Us! Justin assembled a full set, as well as the Terrax build-a-figure. Listen to this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast to hear his thoughts on the new Thor, Iron Man, Steve Rogers, Ghost Rider, Hope Summers, Constrictor, and Klaw figures!

Also on this week’s show, Arnie broke down and bought the Hot Toys War Machine Special Version. After the initial online pics were lackluster, is the final version better than expected? Listen to his hands-on review to find out!

With a Hot Toys public service announcement, a look at upcoming Avengers collectibles, and new product announcements from Bowen, Gentle Giant, Diamond Select, eFX, Jerry looking back at the evolution of X-Men figures, and a creepy Captain America pillow, it’s all on this issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Listen Now: http://www.marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT032.MP3

Category: Arts

    

January 31, 2012 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast: Issue 32: A Toy Run That is Legend – wait for it – ary!