Episode 489: Rogue Group – A Rogue One Discussion
The very first Star Wars standalone movie has arrived. Without the Skywalkers and the Jedi, how does Rogue One stack up compared to the “saga” films?
On this show Arnie and Marjorie are joined by several members of the Star Wars Action News Team: Steve, Brock, Daryl, Andrew, and Jerry. Plus we have special guests Eddie from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Chris and Sarah. They go through the new characters in the film, how it changes their view of the Original Trilogy, and which toys the film made them want to buy!
And also on this show Brock gives a spoiler-free, in-depth review of the Rogue One prequel novel Catalyst by James Luceno!
So join these Rogues on their mission to review the new film!
Then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com for Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob’s in-depth review of the movie!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/zikxpd/SWAN489-RogueOneRoundtable.mp3
Episode 488: The Star Wars Holiday Sale & Gift Guide 2016
Happy Thanksgiving, Star Wars Action News listeners! And welcome to our 12th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!In this issue Marjorie and Arnie run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Black Series figures, video games, Star Wars themed glasses and gifts, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!Then the hosts, aided by the entire Star Wars Action News team, run down the best Star Wars themed gifts for 2016. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!All this and a 2016 Toys For Tots Challenge in this issue of Star Wars Action News!Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/3f3e58/SWAN489.mp3
Episode 487: Troops in Black
Stores are stocking up for holiday shoppers, and a good portion of their shelf space is devoted to Star Wars: Rogue One toys! While they have been out for a bit over a month some of the first wave of figures are still elusive.
On this episode of Star Wars Action News join Arnie, Marjorie, and Scott from Tulsa as they give in-depth reviews on the Black Series 6-Inch Rogue One figures. Plus a look at Amazon’s exclusive Shadow Trooper Helmet — all in this spooky Halloween episode!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/b5deaj/SWAN487.mp3
Episode 486: New York Comic Con 2016!
In just a few years New York Comic Con has become one of the top three most important conventions for collectors. Each year the number of exhibitors grow, now including Sideshow and Hot Toys, Kotobukiya, Sphero, Air Hogs, Hallmark, Beast Kingdom and more! And Hasbro isn’t on the show floor, but they use the event to reveal new toys as well.
For all the Star Wars news out of NYCC join Arnie, Marjorie, and Daryl for this podcast. Watch exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Tantrum Cases, and Kotobukiya (along with their Celebration ’17 exclusives!). Plus a booth tour of Sideshow and Hot Toys, and news from so many other collectible lines!
Plus a review of the new Star Wars novel Ahsoka, it’s all in this feature-length episode of Star Wars Action News! (and available in both full video and audio versions!)
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tjy9wb/SWAN486.mp3
Episode 485: Rogue Friday Around the World!
Last Friday the Rogue One toys were released! Well, officially any way…they had been showing up on store shelves worldwide for weeks before the official street date. But, like for The Force Awakens, these Rogue One toys were celebrated with a midnight release at Toys R Us and Walmart stores. Plus exclusive figures at Target, Walmart, K-Mart, Toys R Us, and more.
On this episode of Star Wars Action News, Arnie and Marjorie recount their Midnight Madness shopping, and are joined by collectors in California, England, and Australia to see how the experiences were in other areas as well!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8c2yjk/SWAN485.mp3
Episode 484: Hasbro Star Wars Figures? There’s an App for that.
Next week Star Wars will again descend upon stores across the world. Sep 30 is this year’s designated date for Rogue One toys, housewares, and more to be released. Some are hitting shelves now, but come Sep 30 everyone will have access to figures of Jyn Erso, the Deathtrooper, and more!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News the team gathers to discuss their anticipation for the toys, the new movie, and so much more. LEGO, Hot Toys, Disney Elite figures, and, of course, Hasbro Toys!
Build your anticipation for this toy release with this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/cddicu/SWAN484.mp3
Pre-Order Marvel Exclusives! One:12 Shadowland Daredevil and Sideshow’s Wolverine/Hulk Maquette plus X-Men Legends
A couple exclusive Marvel collectibles have gone up for order in the past couple das, and collectors should act fast if they want these items!
Episode 483: ICE — Collecting to the Extreme!
Over Labor Day weekend a group of Star Wars collectors from across the globe gathered in the Washington DC area for an International Collector’s Event–or ICE. Items were sold and traded, collections were put on display, and friends swapped stories. All while traveling through Virginia and Maryland visiting a dozen Star Wars collections!
Marjorie and Arnie were on-hand to see these impressive displays and talk to some of the other attendees. So kick back and enjoy this extra-cool episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/34q7j3/SWAN483.mp3
Episode 482: SDCC Exclusives — Thumbs Up!
San Diego Comic-Con has come and gone, but the desire for exclusives lives on! Yesterday Hasbro Toy Shop put up for order their three Star Wars Black Series 6-Inch 2016 exclusives: Jyn Erso, Unmasked Kylo Ren, and A New Hope Obi-Wan Kenobi with talking holographic Leia! They were all gone in under an hour.
Are these figures worth the trouble it took to get them? Or the eBay prices? Join Arnie and Marjorie on this week’s show for in-depth reviews of all three Hasbro SDCC 2016 exclusives!
With a bonus review of Funko’s SDCC exclusive BB-8 with “Thumbs Up” lighter, and a look at the new Star Wars novel Aftermath: Life Debt, all this and much more is in this week’s new podcast!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ufzjie/swan482.mp3
Episode 481: Star Wars Collectibles at San Diego Comic-Con 2016
San Diego Comic-Con was last weekend, and Star Wars was everywhere! From announcements on books and comics to toys and collectibles, the Star Wars Action News team was there to bring you the highlights!
On this full video episode, Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Marvelicious Toys’ host Justin to talk about all the exclusives, the Hasbro reveals, and more.
Watch this episode for exclusive interviews with eFX Collectibles, Kotobukiya, Gentle Giant and Hasbro! Plus a tour of the floor and look at items by Beast Kingdom, Funko, and more!
And check out our photo galleries to see hundreds of pictures from the convention!
Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/99gbx8/SWAN481-edited_audio.mp3
Episode 480: Celebrating Star Wars in Eurorpe, 2016!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/feed/fi2c7q/SWAN480.mp3
Episode 479: We Collect Eternal…Shiny and Chrome!
Star Wars fans around the world — rejoice! In the next 2 weeks comes Star Wars Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! The news will be coming quickly about new toys and collectibles, as well as information on Episode VIII, Rogue One, and Rebels! And the Star Wars Action News team is going to be at both conventions covering it all.
Join the hosts this episode for the ultimate SDCC shopping guide. From exclusive Hasbro Black Series figures to Chewbacca watches to car decals–Arnie and Marjorie run down and rate the numerous Star Wars collectibles only available at the show!
And Steve “The Gingerprince” joins in to share his excitement for this weekend’s Celebration Europe 3! With an exclusive Black Series Kylo Ren figure, a bevy of Original Trilogy stars signing autographs, and more, Steve preps you for the event.
With a review of the Kotobukiya Art-FX+ Captain Phasma and a Vintage Viewpoint reviewing Topps’ new Empire Strieks Back trading card book, it’s all in this extended Star Wars Action News podcast!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tfgum6/SWAN479.mp3
Episode 478: House of Cards
Highly detailed, highly articulated Star Wars 3.75-inch figures are the mainstay of many fans’ collections. The news that The Force Awakens would only see a handful of these Black Series figures, and that they would be Walmart exclusives, made fans worry if these new toys would be obtainable. The third wave, with versions of Han Solo, General Leia, and Captain Phasma from The Force Awakens, has been elusive and fetched north of $40 per figure on eBay. But now, finally, the dam has broken and these figures are showing up coast to coast–including in the Star Wars Action News studio! On this week’s show hear a review of these latest figures and see if they’re worth more toy runs!
Yet while the Black Series 3.75-inch figures have been elusive, the main line of figures, with five points of articulation, are available at every store. Fans were divided on these detailed, but hard-to-pose figures. Now, enter Kozy–a figure customizer who has created cardbacks that elevate these figures from average to epic! He joins the Star Wars Action News hosts to talk about these cards and his inspiration for making them.
With a look at upcoming exclusives for San Diego Comic-Con International and Celebration Europe, new online sales, and much more, it’s all in this Wampa-sized episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/vzvbsi/SWAN478.mp3
Episode 477: To the Maz
She’s the most intriguing new alien introduced in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. She somehow has the lightsaber Luke lost on Bespin. She knows of the Force. She has a crush on the galaxy’s favorite Wookiee. She’s Maz Kanata — and if you want her in action figure form you have to buy the Takodana Encounter figure 4-pack. On this episode of Star Wars Action News, hear a review of that set to see if it’s worth hunting for!
Also on this show, last week ticket sales began for the eighth Star Wars Celebration in the United States, this time back in Orlando! Listen as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Jake Stevens from From 4-Lom to Zuckuss as they look ahead to next year’s biggest Star Wars party.
With two new premium format figures from Sideshow, a real-life Star Wars hologram, and more information about this year’s Star Wars Celebration in London, it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ei63wd/SWAN477.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Black Panter CIVIL WAR Statue by Iron Studios
Sideshow Collectibles is now distributing statues for a new company — Iron Studios. And today they put up for pre-order a quarter-scale statue of Black Panther, as seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s film Captain America: Civil War.
This gorgeously sculpted piece shows T’Challa in his vibranium outfit, crouched atop a rock outcropping. His claws are extended, he’s ready to strike!
The statue is hand-painted polystone and stands over 22-inches tall. You can order it now through Sideshow’s site.
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive First Order Stormtrooper Premium Format Statue
Attention troop builders and first order fans, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for pre-order their Premium Format First Order Stormtrooper statue
This screen accurate collectible features the sleekly designed armor and helmet of the most feared fighting force in the Galaxy and also wields his blaster rifle. Plus there is a Sideshow Exclusive version that comes equipped with an SE-44C Blaster Pistol and thigh holster display option.
So hurry and get your order in now at Sideshow.
Episode 476: You Don’t Know the Moistness of the Dark Side
May the 4th has come and gone, but for many the credit card hangover still remains. There were new releases from Disney, Sideshow, Gentle Giant, Hot Toys, plus sales at LEGO and more! Biggest of all, the next Star Wars Celebration convention was confirmed! On this week’s podcast Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Ryan and Amy from Star Wars Collecting Cosmos. The four look back on the highs, lows, and purchases of May the 4th, 2016!
Also on this week’s show, Brock reviews the new Star Wars novel BLOODLINE. Taking place between Episode VI and VII, this book had direct input from Lucasfilm to help shape the universe for Episode VIII. Join Brock to find out if this is a must read for you.
With a review of the S.H. Figuarts Captain Phasma, a Darth Vader Humidifier, and a run-down of the perks of being a Jedi Knight or Master, it’s all in this week’s new podcast!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/7bjrp8/SWAN476.mp3
Episode 475: May the 4th Comes Earlier Every Year
New Black Series figures are hitting shelves — but are they the last new 6-inch Star Wars toys we’ll see until fall? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Marvelicious Toys podcast host Justin as they discuss the immediate future of the line. They also review the two new waves showing up in stores now, with new figures including Jango Fett, FN-2187, The Force Awakens style Han Solo, and A New Hope version of Tattooine Luke Skywalker!
Also on this week’s show, the hosts went to Indiana Comic-Con with special guests Ray Park and Ian McDiarmid. Join them, and their guest Daryl, as they discuss the convention–and the collectibles found there!
With a run-down of all the May the 4th day Star Wars specials known so far and more, it’s all in this oversized episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/5jiq3n/SWAN475.mp3
Episode 474: We’re Down To buy Figuarts
Star Wars action figure collectors have a wealth of options. Whereas once we had only Kenner/Hasbro action figures, these days there are options in every scale and price point. One of those new figure lines is Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts 6-inch line. The price is double that of a Hasbro 6-inch figure, but is it worth it? On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie give an in-depth review of the S.H. Figuarts First Order Stormtrooper, and tell you if it’s worth the price they paid!
And also on this week’s show, the hosts review Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ First Order Stormtrooper statue 2-pack. Listen in to find out why this may be a statue collection you want to troop build!
With a complete run down of all US Blu-ray releases of The Force Awakens, news of an upcoming prototype Elite Series figure, and the latest rumors for 2016’s Force Friday event, it’s all on this Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/x5qgzc/SWAN474.mp3
Episode 473: Blu Rey
Tomorrow The Force Awakens arrives on Blu-Ray — the first new
live-action Star Wars home release in 11 years. There are a handful of
exclusive versions and many tie-in sales. Prep for your Tuesday shopping
by joining Arnie and Marjorie to find out which version is right for
you!
Plus tomorrow also marks the rerelease of the Disney Store
exclusive Elite figures — including a new Boba Fett! Find out how you
can score these figures that have commanded top dollar on eBay.
With a report from Wizard World Chicago, a review of the latest Funko
Smuggler’s Bounty box, and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star
Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/aamrge/swan473.mp3
Episode 472: Having a Blaster at C2E2 2016
This past weekend was C2E2 in Chicago. Marjorie, Arnie, and Daryl were there checking out the panels and all the booths at the con. Join them on this episode as they report on their hunts for items like Bandai Movie Realization figures, S.H. Figuarts Stormtroopers, Hasbro Black Series, and more! Plus they highlight some special Artist’s Alley finds.
Also on this episode, Jerry is back with another Vintage Viewpoint. He looks at the classic Stormtrooper Blaster toy, and reveals its surprising Batman tie!
Finally Andrew is back with two new Hot Toys — A New Hope Luke and Stormtrooper Luke Skywalker. Does he like these Lukes? Join him to find out in this new Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8h9qrm/SWAN472.mp3
Episode 471: Hot Toys — Assemble the Troops!
While most of us spent Force Friday, 2015 standing outside our local toy stores, Hot Toys collectors were making tough choices. Up for pre-order that day were the first wave of figures for The Force Awakens — and there were lots of them! More pre-orders followed, and now Hot Toys fans are rewarded by a legion of figures showing up on their doorsteps. In this episode Andrew assembles his ranks of Hot Toys First Order Stormtroopers. How different are they, and were they worth the price? Join him to find out!
Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie review Wave 3 of the Star Wars Black Series 6-inch figures, with a First Order TIE Fighter Pilot and a Resistance Trooper. Plus they also run down all the news regarding The Force Awakens Blu-Ray releases!
All this and a report from Wizard World Cleveland in this latest episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/m4yjia/SWAN471.mp3
Episode 470: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko and More from Javitz
Toy Fair International is over, and Star Wars Action News is here to wrap-up all the news collectors care about!
In this episode Marjorie and Arnie recap their Javitz booth visits. They spoke with Dan from Kotobukiya about their upcoming Art-FX+ statues and housewares goods. Funko reveals new POPs, and hints at upcoming Hikari Sofubi characters. Revell shows off new models and teases their Rogue One offerings. Plus several others!
And also this show you can hear Hasbro’s Star Wars Brand Presentation. Our previous episode ran down the reveals, but now you can hear the full presentation straight from Hasbro’s team!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/63q3jp/SWAN470.mp3
Episode 469: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 – LEGO, Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and more!
Marjorie and Arnie are in New York City to bring you the latest news from Toy Fair International 2016! And if that’s not enough — they’re also giving away a Sideshow Collectibles 12-inch Boba Fett figure!
In this first part of their coverage, join them as they discuss all the latest reveals from Hasbro’s Toy Fair presentation. Hasbro displayed two new Sabine figures from Rebels, A New Hope Luke and Leia in the 6-inch Series, and more 6-inch Black Series figures. Plus they revealed news about their upcoming summer convention exclusives, for both Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! Join in to catch up on the news!
Also in this first episode the hosts run down all the new sets revealed by LEGO, and they are Hoth! Hoth! Hoth! Arnie saw the new Ultimate Collector Set Hoth diorama first hand. Listen in to find out if it’s the best new set on display, or if the new X-Wing, Carbon Freezing Chamber, or other sets stole the show!
With a thumbs-up BB-8 from Jakks Pacific and more, it’s all in this first Toy Fair 2016 episode of Star Wars Action News!
And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN469.mp3
Diamond Select Toys Gives A Preview of Toy Fair Releases
Toy Fair
2016 is still 2 days away, but Diamond Select Toys has already given a preview of some new things they’ll have on display!
For Marvel Select collectors, no news may be more welcome than the confirmation of a rerelease of the Carnage Select action figure. This detailed figure barely showed up in comic stores, and has spiked as high as $80 on eBay! Now this 8-inch figure is coming back, giving you an extra chance to grab him. Carnage has 16 points of articulation, three interchangeable heads, swappable weapon hands, and removable tendrils that let you customize your figure’s appearance. He will retail for $24.99.
In addition to that welcome reissue, Diamond also announced new Marvel products in their Statue, PVC, and Minimates line:
Marvel Gallery Spider-Gwen 9” PVC Figure
A Diamond Select Toys release! One of the most exciting new characters in the Marvel Universe is now part of one of its most exciting new collectible lines! The Amazing Spider-Gwen, a spider-powered, hard-rocking Gwen Stacy from a parallel universe, gets the Gallery treatment with this 9-inch scale static PVC figure! Posed on the side of a New York brownstone, Spider-Gwen is sculpted with a high level of detail and exacting paint applications. Packaged in a full-color window box, she is in scale to other Gallery and Femme Fatales PVC figures. Sculpted by Jean St. Jean!
PVC Figure SRP: $45.00
Marvel Minimates Series 67 Civil War 2-Packs Asst.
A Diamond Select Toys release! Get ready for Round 2! The action of Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War continues with a second assortment of Minimates mini-figures based on the film! In this next batch of two-packs, Battle-Damaged Captain America takes on Battle-Damaged Iron Man, Black Widow meets Crossbones, Agent 13 faces an evil Thug and a rare, one-per-case variant set pairs Secretary Ross with another Thug! Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure features 14 points of articulation, as well as character-appropriate accessories and fully interchangeable parts. Designed by Art Asylum!
2-Pack SRP: $9.99/ea.
Marvel Premier Collection Rogue 12” Resin Statue
A Diamond Select Toys release! This is the statue you’ve been waitin’ for, shugah! The Marvel Premier Collection continues its tour of the icons of the Marvel Universe with this statue of the X-Men’s Southern belle, Rogue! Depicted in mid-flight, the power-stealing sweetheart is wearing her fan-favorite 1990s yellow-and-green costume, with leather jacket, and measures approximately 12” tall. Limited to only 3,000 pieces, this numbered resin statue is packaged with a certificate of authenticity in a full-color box. Sculpted by Clayburn Moore!
Statue SRP: $150.00
All these items and more will be on display to wholesale buyers and press at New York’s Toy Fair International! Stay tuned to Marvelicious Toys, as well as our Facebook and Twitter feeds, for all the updates right from the show!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure
Up for order right now is Sideshow Collectibles’ exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure!
This newest statue features this Guardian of the Galaxy in her white battle armor, decorated with gold skulls, a hooded cloak, and a belt.
Both the regular and exclusive version come with Gamora’s God Slayer sword, but the exclusive also has a swap-out hand with Gamora holding a tactical knife.
This item is slated to ship in early 2017–right about when the hype for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 will be at its apex. So you know this is going to be sold out and have a high secondary value when it ships.
Don’t delay, order your Gamora Premium Format Figure now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Episode 468: Turning Japanese
Toy Fair International is just 5 days away! This weekend Hasbro, LEGO, Kotobukiya, and so many more companies will reveal their 2016 Star Wars line-up. But will there be much to show? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie prepare for the coverage and tell you what has already leaked out!
And one of the big reveals at Toy Fair last year was the Tamshii Nations Movie Realization Star Wars line featuring Darth Vader and Stormtroopers as Japanese samurai. On this show we review the newest release in that line — the Ronin Boba Fett!
With a look at new ceramic Star Wars dinnerware, a new Hot Toys figure aimed right at gamers, and much more, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN468.mp3
Episode 467: In Space…No One Can Hear You Troop
Star Wars Action News is back with its first regular show of 2016, and it’s a Hot one! Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Hot Toys addict Andrew to review two of that company’s Movie Masterpiece Series Star Wars figures. First, the three look at the Star Wars Celebration Anaheim exclusive Spacetrooper figure. It’s still available on their site — should you order it?
Then Andrew talks about his biggest Hot Toys purchase, the quarter scale Boba Fett. This 18-inch Mandalorian carries a hefty bounty. Listen to find out if he’s worth a lot to Andrew!
With Brock reviewing Alan Dean Foster’s The Force Awakens novelization, a run-down on new figures hitting stores, and a cuddly Valentine’s Day bouquet, it’s all in this brand new episode of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN467.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Captain Marvel Statue
Sideshow Collectibles’ exclusive Captain Marvel Premium Format Figure is now up for order! It stands 23-inches tall, showing Carol Danvers flying over a pile of wreckage. And if you order now you can get the exclusive version that has an swappable head showing her in her helmet!
While this is a gorgeous statue with marvelous color, I have to think this is the second statue Sideshow has put out that strains to justify its $500 price tag (the first being the Phoenix statue just last week!) Yes, Sideshow is making their statues taller through use of vertical bases, but that is not enough to justify the extra $120-$140 over what they were charging two years ago. For a basic human-sized figure, and at the rate Sideshow is making them, it’s hard to justify Captain Marvel’s cost to any but the most hard-core Captain Marvel fan.
While I have severe FOMO on this one, I’m holding off in hopes of a discount down the road.
But if this is for you…Get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Episode 466: 2015 Star Wars Collectors’ Year in Review
For Star Wars collectors 2015 started in a famine and ended in a feast — with plenty of highs and lows along the way! We look back at the Star Wars Celebration: Anaheim reveals, the convention exclusives, and all the action figures, mini-busts, import figures, and high-end collectibles. Plus the bottled water, the oranges, the cereals, and all the other tie-ins!
So listen now as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by other Star Wars Action News team members and friends and look back on the year that was…and the next year to come!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN466.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Two new Premium Format statues from Sideshow – Hulk and Dark Phoenix!
Like a super-villain attacking your wallet, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for order two new Premium Format Figures: Jean Gray’s Dark Phoenix and Hulk from Avengers: Age of Ultron.
These two statues are incredibly detailed, gorgeous pieces. But each carries with it a Hulk-sized price tag.
At $500 each, my number of Premium Format statue purchases will go down. That said, I love, and I’ve already ordered, the Dark Phoenix statue. With her fiery base and the exclusive Jean Gray swappable head, plus such an iconic character from what is arguably Claremont’s best story arc, this one is (barely) worth the price.
However, I have to go the other way on the Hulk. It was the movie-themed Premium Formats that got me into Sideshow Premium Format Figures to begin with. Black Widow, Captain America, and even the Avengers Hulk Maquette were all amazing. However, this new Hulk is $750 — $100 more than the Avengers Hulk, and $200 more than the (still up for pre-order) comic-based Hulk Premium Format Figure announced last year.
I will admit, I could have been swayed into buying this Age of Ultron Hulk if, like Phoenix, the exclusive piece was amazing. Perhaps if they included a red-eyed Rampaging Hulk head, or a hand holding a piece of Iron Man armor. But no, the exclusive piece isn’t a must-have; to me it’s actually a turn-off. 
Hearkening back to the exclusive Legendary Scale Busts of previous years, this Hulk’s exclusive piece is a… nameplate. Now, I know I can choose not to display this piece since I already know who this character is, but it’s certainly not an enticement to pre-order.
I may still get Hulk pre-ordered once edition sizes are announced, but unless the edition size is 500 or less for the regular edition, I’ll be holding off and hoping for a Spooktacular deal on this overpriced piece in October, 2017.
I always appreciate anyone who’s ordering from Sideshow using our links and supporting Marvelicious Toys, but I find it hard to endorse a $750 version of a character (that MarvelToyNews.com pointed out…it looks like he’s bowling).
You can pre-order (and flex pay, as I did on Phoenix) both of these statues now:
Episode 465: The Fans Awaken
SPOILER WARNING: This podcast has an in-depth discussion of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The toys, the movie, the books, are all fair game.
Nothing shakes up Star Wars collecting more than a new property. Every movie and TV series brings new figure lines, vehicles, and more. In the case of The Force Awakens we even got water and produce!
Fans have been collecting Force Awakens figures on blind faith ever since Force Friday in early September. For over three months we’ve speculated — why doesn’t the Finn figure come with a lightsaber? Who is Constable Zuvvio?
But now the film has awoken fans across the globe!
And on this episode of Star Wars Action News, the first part of our 2015 year-in-review coverage, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by many friends to discuss the new film Join them to find out how the movie impacted them…and their collections!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN465.mp3
Episode 464: Rey Bans
There’s been an awakening…have you felt it? As The Force Awakens hits theaters, Star Wars Action News reporter Justin awakened the Disney empire with his Walmart store find — a new 3.75-inch Rey figure!
It was the figure find heard across the world! Some claimed the figure was a spoiler, others started their own hunts, and Disney and Lucasfilm started sending takedown notices. What’s all the hullabaloo about? And was the figure worth the trouble it caused? Justin joins Arnie and Marjorie on this show to tell the tale!
Also on this week’s show, Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin report on the latest store finds and online exclusives. With figure multi-pack exclusives at Toys R Us and Kohls, and a Disney exclusive Boba Fett that’s commanding a huge bounty, join the hosts for all the news.
With an in depth look at the new Star Wars Topps Trading Cards book and more, The Force Awakens on Star Wars Action News!
We want your pictures! Share your Force Awakens theater photos on the Star Wars Action News Facebook page!
Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN464.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusive Iron an Mk XXVI (Gamma) and Jakku Stormtroopers
Remember: Sign-ups for the Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys Secret Santa Gift Exchanges end today! Sign up now!
Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for order two brand new Hot Toys figures! Both are the highly sought after Movie Promo Edition exclusives!
First, the Iron Man 3 House Party Protocol continues with the newest armor — the Iron Man Mk XXVI — Gamma Armor. This heavy construction suit allows Tony to resist extreme temperatures and devastating electrical surges. And it gets its name for its ability to withstand Gamma Radiation (guess Banner could have used one of these).
The figure stands over 13-inches tall, has over 30 points of articulation, and LEG-lit eyes and rectangular arc reactor on the chest. Plus there are spring-loaded Pneumatic Hammers that light up, and articulated air flaps and waist armor.
Order the Iron Man MK XXVI Now
Next, in the Star Wars line, comes the First Order Jakku Stormtrooper. This white armored troop will be on big screens in 2 weeks, but you can pre-order him now! The usual First Order Stormtrooper armor is augmented with a heavy artillery vest, a detachable survival backpack, a blaster rifle with an extended stock, and a special Jakku-themed desert figure stand!
The Jakku First Order Stormtrooper is almost 12-inches tall. It has over 30 points of articulation and 8 interchangable hands.
Order the Jakku First Order Stormtrooper Now
Pl
us yesterday Sideshow also put up for order their own sixth scale Boba Fett figure. Shipping early in 2016, this 12-inch figure has over 30 points of articulation and an absolute ton of weapons and accessories, including
- Fabric flight suit and vest with Durapast armor plates
- Cape
- Belt with pouches
- Honor sash
- Blaster pistol holster
- Rocket pack
- Blaster pistol
- EE-3 Mark I carbine blaster
- Knee pads
- Survival knife
- Sonic beam weapon
- Anti-Security blade
- Rocket pack adjustment tool
- Right and left gauntlets
- Braided Wookie scalps
- Interchangeable hands including:
– Right/Left fists
– Right/Left C-grip hands
– Right/Left trigger hands
Order the Sideshow 12-Inch Boba Fett now
And finally, for those who want an even bigger Boba, Sideshow and ThinkGeek are giving away a life-sized Boba Fett statue. Be sure to get your entry in now!
Episode 463: 2015 Holiday Gift & Black Friday Guide
Happy Thanksgiving to all the Star Wars Action News community!
While your uncle gets drunk and your sister yells about football we give you our 11th annual Holiday Gift Guide. What do you get for the Star Wars collector who has everything? Or what should those in your life buy for you? Marjorie and Arnie, along with guest host Andrew, have dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to life sized statues, the whole range is in this guide!
Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. Are there any Star Wars sales worth braving the crowds? Listen to find out!
And be sure you get, and give, a Star Wars themed gift this year! Our annual Sithmas gift exhange registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.
Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN463.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Ralph McQuarrie Boba Fett Statue
Sideshow Collectibles’ 18.5-inch Concept Boba Fett statue is up for pre-order!
Ralph McQuarrie’s conceptual drawings and paintings were instrumental in bringing George Lucas’ epic space saga to the big screen, envisioning the vast worlds of fantastic heroes, villains, vehicles and aliens that would come to be known as Star Wars!
Inspired by Ralph McQuarrie’s pre-production artwork for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present Boba Fett!
One of the first new characters to be designed for The Empire Strikes Back, Boba Fett originally began as a super trooper, with a striking aesthetic inspired primarily by Darth Vader and the Stormtroopers. As McQuarrie worked closely alongside Star Wars Art Director Joe Johnston, the character evolved into the ruthless Mandalorian bounty hunter we know today. Capturing the spirit of these early explorations, Fett appears in his original all-white armor with two unique helmet designs, leaping into action over a base inspired by the Slave I. Reviewing a broad spectrum of McQuarrie’s imaginative designs for Boba Fett, Sideshow’s artists have translated his iconic artwork in a brilliant homage to a Star Wars that is both familiar, yet never was.
Now you can own an 18-inch statue of this classic concept armor. Check it out now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Previous McQuarrie collectibles, like eFX’s McQuarrie Vader helmet and the Gentle Giant McQuarrie mini-busts have sold out fast and now command a premium. Don’t delay, order your statue now!
Marvel Partners to Bring Statues, Clothes, and Toys for Adults in 2016
Today Marvel announced a new initiative to release products aimed at teen and adult collectors and fans.
In 2016 Marvel’s licensing partners will offer apparel, collectibles, action figures, and other items based upon their edgier properties, such as Netflix’s Daredevil and Jessica Jones television series. Items in this line will focus on characters from those series, including The Punisher (who will be featured in Daredevil Season 2, coming in 2016).
Not just television based, Marvel also said the edgier Marvel Publishing archives will be mined to support this release (such as the Daredevil: Born Again story).
With partners such as Kotobukiya, Sideshow, and Diamond Select named, fans can expect high-end statues. Plus Hasbro is specifically mentioned as releasing some of their popular Marvel Legends figures to tie into this initiative. Of course, Funko (the Energizer Bunny of marketing tie-ins) will also be offering several items.
Of concern is the lack of one key licensee — Hot Toys. Since 2008 that Hong Kong based company has produced 12 and 18-inch figures based on Marvel films. The figures are very popular and highly collectible, some selling out the first day they are offered. I know fans were hoping for Hot Toys versions of the movie Deadpool and the television series Daredevil. While Hot Toys may still offer such products in 2016, they are notable by omission in Marvel’s statement.
As of press time Marvel has not replied to our inquiries regarding Hot Toys’ participation in this campaign.
Also shocking is the inclusion of Marvel cult icon Deadpool. In early 2016 Hot Topic will launch a complete Deadpool campaign, which ties in with the Deadpool movie coming out in February. Historically Marvel has had rocky relations with Fox Studios, makers of the Fantastic Four, X-Men and Deadpool films. Merchandising for those properties has been limited, as stated by Hasbro’s Marvel Brand Team Manager Dwight Schultz, XM Studios, and others. Rumors came during San Diego Comic-Con that Marvel was lifting the restriction on Deadpool merchandise, and it has been confirmed in this release.
As an adult Marvel Comics fan and collector, I am extremely excited by this news. In 2014 and 2015 it seemed much of the Marvel content was being aimed at much younger fans, from single age to early teens. From changes to the Marvel comics to the Ant-Man film it seemed Marvel (or perhaps parent company Disney) was removing much of what made me a fan of the characters.
Additionally, as an X-Men enthusiast, it’s encouraging to see Deadpool back on the approved list for Marvel Licensing. While Deadpool merchandise has never been hard to find, as he is one of Marvel’s biggest break-out characters of the past 25 years, this specific push may indicate a more collaborative relationship between Fox and Marvel. (This may perhaps be borne out later in 2016 with Fox’s release of X-Men: Apocalypse).
While more details will certainly emerge during Toy Fair International in February, 2016, this is a promising revelation for grown-up fans of Marvel comics, movies, and television series.
Marvel’s entire press release is below.
MARVEL ENERGIZES ADULT FANS WITH NEW DAREDEVIL, THE PUNISHER, JESSICA JONES, AND DEADPOOL MERCHANDISE
Anti-Heroes and Vigilantes Inspire Dynamic New Product Line and Retail Promotions with Target, Walmart, Hot Topic, and Others
Glendale, Calif. (November 19, 2015) – As fans continue to demand unique items to wear and collect from Marvel’s deep stable of characters, Marvel is rolling out its merchandising and retail plans for popular anti-heroes and vigilantes Daredevil, The Punisher, Jessica Jones and Deadpool. This new development addresses a key Marvel strategy to tap into the Marvel vault and satisfy not only the fans of the major Marvel franchises — Avengers, Spider-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy — but also comic book fans and those watching Marvel’s new Netflix Original Series.
Utilizing new artwork that launched this past summer, the merchandise campaigns focus on images from the vast Marvel Publishing archive to embrace an edgier tone. The lines have begun rolling out in stores with larger launches planned for January 2016 targeting teens and adults. Activity will heat up later in 2016 with the debut of the second season of the critically acclaimed Netflix’s “Marvel’s Daredevil”, which will include the first-ever live-action appearance of the Punisher on television.
The licensing program features a wide array of adult fan-focused product originating off of the wildly popular Marvel Comics publishing line, from apparel to collectibles and action figures. Fans will have the chance to build out full collections for the first time with collectibles from Diamond Select, Funko, Sideshow, Kotobukiya, and NECA coming to retail. Additionally, Hasbro will add Marvel Legends collector figures and Hot Wheels will unveil collectible die-cast vehicles next fall. Mad Engine, C-Life, Hybrid, Freeze, Fifth Sun, Silver Buffalo and Bioworld will each be launching a robust lineup of product including men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, footwear, bags, home goods, and drinkware. The merchandising programs will be rounded out with additional offerings including collector plush, stationery, consumer electronics, and novelties. And this assortment would not be complete without the collected Marvel Comics editions where these popular heroes originated.
At retail, best-in-class partners are working on extensive in-store and online support. Beginning in January, Target will feature a Funko display that will spotlight Daredevil, The Punisher and Deadpool collectible bobbleheads. In February, Hot Topic is launching an in-store and online Deadpool campaign that will include eye-catching signage, a homepage takeover, and social media posts. Other brick and mortar retailers including Walmart, JCPenney, Spencer’s, Party City, and Kohl’s will also provide in-store and online support. Amazon will expand on its toy and apparel offerings for the characters and CafePress is launching a dedicated Jessica Jones shop offering unique merchandise for both men and women.
“Our goal is to open our deep vault of characters and explore all opportunities to drive incremental revenue that extends beyond our core franchises and extends our reach to new consumer segments,” said Paul Gitter, senior vice president, licensing, Marvel at Disney Consumer Products. “The excitement that is brewing across the board from not just fans, but also the licensees and retailers, is overwhelming and we are looking forward to seeing the reaction to this awesome product lineup.”
# # #
About Marvel Entertainment
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-five years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing.
For more information visit marvel.com.
© 2015 MARVEL
About Disney Consumer Products
Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that delivers innovative and engaging product experiences across thousands of categories from toys and apparel to books and fine art. As the world’s largest licensor, DCP inspires the imaginations of people around the world by bringing the magic of Disney into consumers’ homes with products they can enjoy year-round. DCP is comprised of three business units: Licensing, Publishing and Disney Store. The Licensing business is aligned around five strategic brand priorities: Disney Media, Classics & Entertainment, Disney & Pixar Animation Studios, Disney Princess & Disney Fairies, Lucasfilm and Marvel. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books, magazines, and apps, igniting imagination through storytelling in ever-inventive ways. DPW creates and publishes books, magazines, eBooks and apps both vertically in-house and through an extensive worldwide licensing structure. DPW is also committed to the educational development of children around the world through Disney Learning which includes our flagship learning brand, Disney Imagicademy, as well as Disney English and other Disney themed learning products. The Disney Store retail chain operates across North America, Europe and Japan with more than 350 stores worldwide and is known for providing consumers with high-quality, unique products. Disney Store operates ecommerce channels in nine countries, which can be found here. For more information, please visit Disney Consumer Products www.DisneyConsumerProducts.com .
Episode 462: Phasma-tastic
As The Force Awakens draws closer we get new information, new trailers, and…new toys! With the Guavian Enforcer, Captain Phasma, Constable Zuvio and Poe Dameron the second wave of 6-inch Black Series figures is hitting stores now. On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie review this new wave of figures–and try to guess how they fit into the new movie. And they also review the new KMart exclusive Kylo Ren – Starkiller Base Black Series figure.
Also on this week’s show, with tomorrow’s release of Battlefront the game, Brock joins us to look at the Star Wars: Battlefront novel Twilight Company. He also reviews the new audiobook adaptations for the young readers’ adaptations of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi.
With Berent’s report from Gentle Giant Days in Burbank, a rundown of new Star Wars merchandise hitting stores, and more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Listen to this episode, then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com Nov 17 as they begin their review of the Star Wars prequels, leading up to their weekend of release review of The Force Awakens!
Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!
Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!
Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!
So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN462.mp3
Episode 461: Star Wars the Flamethrower!
Only 50 days until The Force Awakens and Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie couldn’t be more excited. Tickets have been purchased, plans made, and the countdown is on.
But for collecting it may be easier to list the items that don’t have Star Wars tie-ins instead of those that do. Soup, bottled water, apples, coffee creamer, El Paso Tacos! On this week’s show the hosts sift through the plethora of items and tell you which are the cool ones to hunt for.
With new waves of Hasbro figures hitting shelves, Black Series exclusives from Walmart, Target, and K-Mart, and where you can find Wave 2 of the new Force Awakens figures, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!
Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!
Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!
Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!
So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN461.mp3
Episode 460: Han Hot First!
Hot Toys has shipped its half-witted, scruffy looking, nerf herder…and his walking carpet pal! That’s right, the first Hot Toys Star Wars figures ever announced — Han Solo and Chewbacca — have now shipped, and Andrew has them in hand! Listen to this episode to find out why one of them has become his favorite Hot Toys figure yet!
Also in this week’s episode, Arnie has come back from New York Comic-Con with tons of photos and news about Hasbro, Kotobukiya, and other Star Wars collectibles. Join him, Marjorie, and guest Matt Booker from JediNews.uk to find out all the news, and then listen to an exclusive Q&A with the Hasbro Brand Team. They revealed when stores will fully stock new figures only to Star Wars Action News!
With Brock looking at the new short stories in the Rise of the Empire novel collection, Steve running down his thoughts on the new Force Awakens 3.75-inch figures, and more, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN460.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 459: Fifty Shades of White
It’s been one month since Force Friday but the onslaught of new Star Wars products has not let up. From tie in items like vitamins to cereal to toothpaste to Pop Chips, Star Wars is on everything. And of course that means lots of new toys too!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Andrew to look at some of the new Star Wars items in a head to head match.
First we put two BB-8s to the test — Hasbro’s Target Exclusive Remote Control BB-8 versus Sphero’s App Controlled BB-8. One is bigger, one is more expensive, but should you buy one, both, or neither?
Then we look at Disney’s new Elite line of 6.5-inch Die Cast action figures. They’re $5 more than Hasbro’s Black Series 6-inch, but every bit as in demand, selling out nationwide. On this show we put Disney’s Elite First Order Stormtrooper to the test against Hasbro’s Black Series counterpart.
Plus Brock joins us for a review of the novel Aftermath, we look at Hot Toys’ new Star Wars releases, and more on this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN459.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 458: Force Friday Rockin Eve!
There’s been an awakening…has your wallet felt it?
Last Friday was declared “Force Friday” by Lucasfilm — the day that hundreds of items would be revealed and released for Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. Hasbro figures big and small, Jakks Pacific gumbo figures, Micro Machines, LEGO sets, Disney Store exclusives, and so much more was unleashed upon fans in a global, coordinated 12:01 a.m. release.
But the biggest event happened at the Times Square Toys R Us. With a day full of events, a traveling Rancho Obi-Wan exhibit from Steve Sansweet, and hundreds of fans hungry for toys, the flagship Toys R Us was the center of activity — and Marjorie & Arnie were there to cover it!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News, join Marjorie & Arnie as they recount the events of Force Friday, including both before and after interviews with Steve Sansweet.
Then other Star Wars Action News team members report in with midwest toy releases, a report from the Disneyland exclusive ticketed toy release, and even a report from the UK on the release! All the hosts share their experiences, their purchases, and their frustrations in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
And after you watch, come to the Star Wars Action News forums and share your tale of Force Friday shopping!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN458.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 457: Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary from Wizard World Chicago
A long time ago…on a web site far, far away
Ten years ago, August 30, 2005, two Star Wars collectors released the world’s first podcast dedicated to Star Wars collecting: Star Wars Action News. From the Revenge of the Sith line through The Black Series, and even looking back at Vintage and 90s toys, Marjorie and Arnie have covered it all.
This episode celebrates the milestone, bringing in Star Wars Action News team members Arnie, Marjorie, Brock, Jerry, Daryl, Andrew, and others as they look forward to a new era of Star Wars collecting with The Force Unleashed!
Join them as they talk Wizard World Chicago, leaked images of The Force Awakens toys and figures, and their plans for next week’s Force Friday event!
Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN457.mp3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 456: Finger Falcon
We are less than one month away from Force Friday – the day when an onslaught of new Star Wars toys, books, collectibles, and more will be released! On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie look forward to the upcoming event and want your story from that night!
Also on this week’s show, the hosts review the new Star Wars line of die cast starships from Hot Wheels. With a mix of Original Trilogy, Prequel, Clone Wars, and Rebels ships, this line enters an already crowded area of miniature Star Wars vehicles. Listen to find out if these ships are the ones you should collect!
With a gaming report from 2015’s Gen Con, a review of some quality Star Wars ladies’ accessories, some deep discount Star Wars graphic novels and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star Wars Action News!
Plus, in 2 weeks Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a FREE party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!
Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!
Find out all details and get your tickets now!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN456.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 455: Star Wars at Conventions From San Diego to London
The 2015 San Diego Comic-Con is gone, but not forgotten. In addition to the exclusive First Order Stormtrooper selling out faster than you can say “Blast it!”, the images of giant TIE Fighters, working R2-D2 robots, and McQuarrie art based statues still dance in our heads.
Last week you had a floor tour of the major booths at the con. Now join Marjorie and Arnie this week as they recap San Diego Comic-Con, including the companies with the best showings and the coolest items coming soon. They are also joined by resident Hot Toys expert Andrew to discuss that TIE Fighter and that even bigger Millennium Falcon, and Berent recounts his experience getting into the Star Wars panel at Hall H!
Also on this week’s show, Steve “The Gingerprince” reports in from a convention on the other side of the pond: London Film and Comic Con. He recounts his celebrity meetings and rare purchases at the con.
All this and Brock’s review of Dark Disciple in this week’s new Star Wars Action News!
Plus, next month Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!
Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!
Find out all details and get your tickets now!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN455.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 454: The Force is With SDCC 2015
Star Wars was back in a big way at San Diego Comic-Con 2015. Hasbro and Hot Toys competed for the most impressive TIE Fighter on the floor. eFX filled a booth with upcoming prop replicas–including a fully functional, life-sized R2-D2, and Gentle Giant couldn’t satiate the demand for both the Jumbo and mini-Bust versions of Boba Fett.
Marjorie and Arnie were there on the floor of the con the entire time, posting interviews, panels, and more to the Star Wars Action News YouTube channel. Now you can download their coverage to your iPhone and feel like you were there at the convention!
With an exclusive Hasbro Q&A, a look forward at offerings from Gentle Giant, a Hot Toys booth tour and so much more, it’s on this episode of Star Wars Action News.
For even more coverage, subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see the Hasbro Panel, the Star Wars Collectibles Panel, and the Star Wars Books panels in full!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN454.MP3
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow EXCLUSIVE Wolverine – Premium Format Figure
Sideshow is the best there is at what they do…and what they do is make incredibly detailed quarter-scale statues!
The next offer from Sideshow is the Premium Format Wolverine! This statue goes back to the character’s first solo series — the Japan saga by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller, a longtime fan favorite story that defined the character for decades and even inspired the movie The Wolverine.
This Sideshow statue shows Logan atop a snow-capped bridge that is riddled by enemy arrow-fire. With the base this short X-Man stands 20-inches tall!
The statue also comes with swappable heads so you can display him masked or unmasked, both with fierce, feral expressions. And if you hurry to get Sideshow’s Exclusive Edition you can swap his right hand as well – show him with adamantium claws drawn or with the exclusive Muramasa Blade accessory!
You can check out detailed 360-degree photos, close-ups and more at Sideshow’s site, so go check it out! (And if your wallet has a mutant healing factor, place your order!)
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 453: The First Order
San Diego Comic-Con draws closer, and with that come even more reveals. From Lucasfilm’s Hall H panel on Friday to something even more exciting for collectors — the reveals of the first toys from Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. Marjorie and Arnie run down this news, and rate your chances of scoring the SDCC exclusive Hasbro figure, on this week’s show!
Then Brock and Jerry join forces for a segment that’s both a book review and a segment for vintage collectors as they look back on the various books that help collectors of the early Star Wars toys.
With Darryl providing a review of the new Star Wars figures from S.H. Figuarts, Steve “The Gingerprince” reporting on the latest UK conventions, and a contest to win a custom melted Vader head, it’s all in this issue of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN453.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 452: Cuckoo for Koto Stuffs
Kotobukiya had one of the most stunning booth displays at Star Wars Celebration 2015. Their Art-FX+ display of dozens of Stormtroopers standing at the ready, with Royal Guards and Vader at the fore, was truly a spectacular sight to behold. They also continued to grow this line of tenth-scale statues with their celebration exclusive K-3PO and R3-A2 droid pack. Marjorie and Arnie review those new droids, as well as the Royal Guard Art-FX+ two-pack, in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Also in this episode, a rundown of the recently announced SDCC exclusives, more news on finding the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures, A New Hope for Hot Toys, and more — it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News show!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN452.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 451: Hot Toys Stormtroopers – Shiny and New
Hot Toys’ line of Movie Masterpiece 12-inch scale figures continues to grow. Luke and Leia have been teased, and recently they shipped their first non-exclusive figure: The Stormtrooper, soldindividually and in a two-pack. Andrew has them in hand and is here with an in-depth review.
Also in this week’s show is a discussion of the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures that inexplicably appeared for sale at Go! Calendar stores across the country. Johnathan has them in hand and gives his thoughts, as well as a report of what he’s finding in stores.
With Brock reviewing Paul S Kemp’s new novel Lords of the Sith, Steve the Gingerprince giving a report from Star Wars Fan Fun Days, and Arnie and Marjorie recording live at Wizard World St. Louis, it’s all in this week’s Star Wars Action News podcast!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN451.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 450: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 3 – Floor Tour & Wrap Up
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
It’s May 4th, the day fans designated “Star Wars day” and has been quickly co-opted by every Star Wars licensee to discount the items that don’t sell! But here is welcome relief from a deluge of 10% off codes — a new episode of Star Wars Action News!
In this, our final episode from Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015, Marjorie and Arnie record right from the show floor. Join them for booth tours of Sideshow, eFX Collectibles, the Celebration official store, and more!
Plus join Arnie as he talks action figures with the Hasbro Star Wars brand team. You submitted your questions and Arnie asks them!
With a group of fans giving their reactions to the new Force Awakens trailer moments after it was shown, and a recap on the convention as a whole, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN450.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 449: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 2 – Sunday Podcast All-Stars Live Show
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
Toys, panels, autographs, swap meets, trading, exclusive reveals and more — Star Wars Celebration Anaheim had so much to do that no one podcast can contain it all. So in this episode we get four!
Marjorie, Berent, and Arnie from Star Wars Action News, Matt Fox from This Week in Star Wars, Jason Luttrull and Ryan Beise from Galaxy of Toys, and Amy Sjoberg from Star Wars Collecting Cosmos came together for the biggest podcast of the convention!
Join the gang as they discuss Star Wars collecting at Celebration, The Force Awakens, and so much more!
If you missed Celebration this show will make you feel like you were there! If you attended the con, relive the experience, all with this mega-packed podcast!
Watch now, and then join us in a few days for even more coverage of Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN449.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 448: Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015 Coverage Part 1 – Saturday Live Show
Note: This podcast discusses details of The Force Awakens obtained from the second trailer and the props shown at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim.
The seventh Star Wars Celebration convention was an explosion of fandom held in Anaheim, CA. With new trailers and teasers shown for the next two Star Wars films, a gaggle of celebrities, and tens of thousands of fans, the event captivated fans worldwide!
Now in the first part of Star Wars Action News’ coverage of the convention comes this recording of the Live Podcast recorded Saturday afternoon at Celebration! Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Star Wars Action News team members Daryl and Andrew to discuss the reveals, the exclusives, the lines, and more!
Watch now, and then join us in a few days for even more coverage of Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN448.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 447: Celebration SWAG-ger
In 3 days the world’s largest Star Wars party begins — Star Wars Celebration Anaheim! With attendance projected to be the largest of any Star Wars convention and overnights already planned for the J.J. Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy panel, it’s the single largest collection of Star Wars fans and collectors–and that means plenty of exclusives! From Kotobukiya to Gentle Giant to the official Celebration store–listen as Marjorie and Arnie run down the must buys!
But not all the collectibles are for sale–some are just given away! Yes, more than the official exclusives this seems to be the celebration of Star Wars SWAG! Patches, pins, buttons, toys, Star Tots, and so much more is just waiting to join your collection! The Star Wars Action News hosts discuss this–and preview the Star Wars Action News Celebration Anaheim SWAG–in this week’s episode!
With a store report by Johnathan, a discussion of the digital download releases of the Star Wars saga, and Jerry with a neo-Vintage Viewpoint, it’s plenty to keep you entertained in line while you wait to get in the con! So download this episode of Star Wars Action News now!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN447.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 446: Hot Toys — Out of the Shadows
Star Wars Celebration is just 2 weeks away–have you gotten in line yet? Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie will be there running the Collector’s Social Area, part of the official Celebration Collector’s Track of events! On this week’s podcast, they run down the exclusives announced so far for the convention, and tell you about the one event no Star Wars collector should miss–the Swap Meet Saturday night at 7pm.
Also on this week’s show Andrew joins the hosts to look at the first figure in a new line of Star Wars figures: Hot Toys’ Shadow Trooper. After many years of creating the single best figure line for Marvel movie fans Hot Toys has now come to the Galaxy Far, Far Away. They’ve put seven figures up for pre-order already, but the first to ship was the black-armored trooper. Watch this week’s show to see how this figure ranks, and if you have to add it to your collection!
All this and more in this week’s Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN446.MP3
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow’s Black Cat by J Scott Campbell
This is one Black Cat you want to cross your path!
It’s been quite some time since Sideshow Collectibles has released a new statue from their J Scott Campbell Spider-Man collection. But now, almost a year since Spider-Man himself went for order, comes the 4th statue in the series — Black Cat!
This statue is based on a print Campbell has sold for several years at conventions, featuring Felicia Hardy, the Black Cat, playing with her favorite ball of yarn–Spider-Man. More, this statue comes in an exclusive edition with an extra accessory–a sculpted cat to rub up against Black Cat’s leather boot!
The statue stands 9-inches high with Black Cat in her crouching pose, and weighs about 8 lbs. It is expected to ship the second quarter of 2016.
The Campbell Spider-Man statues have had astoundingly high edition numbers…and all sold through! The Mary Jane comiquette had 6,000 pieces ship–and is sold out! The exclusive edition of Spider-Man sold out as well. The other statues, Gwen Stacey, Spider-Man, and the alternate Spider-Man in Classic Colors have all gone back to pre-order status after shipping! It’s astounding, but these statues have been some of the most popular Marvel items from Sideshow Collectibles in years!
So what are you waiting for? Head to Sideshow Collectibles and order yours now!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 445: Maximize Your Fun at Celebration With a Bottle of Water and a Plan
In less than one month the world’s largest Star Wars party takes place in Anaheim — Star Wars Celebration! There will be celebrities, exclusives, panels, vendors and more! There will also be lines, standing and waiting, rooms filled before you get in, and bottles of soda for almost $5 each.
On this week’s Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie help you prepare to get the most out of Celebration! At Celebration 5 and 6 they presented their panel A Bottle of Water and a Plan and now they bring it to the podcast so everyone can have the best time at Celebration!
And for this special show they are joined by other convention veterans, Jerry, Daryl, and Chris! All the panelists have been at multiple Star Wars Celebrations, as well as a combined hundreds of other conventions including San Diego Comic-Con! They even recorded this at Indiana Comic-Con this weekend! Save your feet with their tips!
Plus find out about the Star Wars Celebration Collectors’ Swap Meet, special exclusive Celebration patches and pins, and more! It’s all in this pre-Celebration episode of Star Wars Action News!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN445.MP3
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Exclusive Black Widow Premium Format — Limited to 200 Pieces!
Last year Sideshow released their Black Widow Premium Format…and now they’re doing a variant in the white outfit! LIMITED TO 200 PIECES!
The black-clad version of this statue was one of last year’s best, so hurry if you want the white one
–it ships NOW!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Darth Vader Premium Format Figure
Sideshow Collectibles has put up for pre-order their latest 1/4 scale Premium Format Figure in the Star Wars line — Darth Vader.
Inspired by one of the most climactic duels in cinematic history, Darth Vader descends the steps of a Death Star themed base. With his light-up crimson lightsaber at the ready, the commanding villain is prepared to engage in mortal combat and claim victory for the Galactic Empire. Every detail of the Sith Lords costume, from his iconic helmet to his sweeping black cape, have been faithfully recreated as seen on screen in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.
The figure stands 26.5-inches high with the giant base, and is the first time in nearly 10 years that Sideshow has offered the most iconic of all Star Wars characters. So place your order now at Sideshow Collectibles!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 444: Keep Feeling Fabrikation
At Toy Fair International last week Funko was one of the few companies with lots of new Star Wars toys and collectibles on display. A rising Force in Star Wars collections, Funko has cornered the market on “cute” Star Wars figures. Last year they expanded that line to include Star Wars Fabrikations. They’re part action figure, part plushie, and all adorable. On this week’s Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie look at three figures in this line: Boba Fett, Chewbacca, and Yoda!
For more high end Star Wars collectors, the first Star Wars figure from Hot Toys is shipping soon–the Shadow Stormtrooper! To prepare, listen to a review of that other Hot Toys Star Wars figure–the Bespin Luke Skywalker. Done as part of Sideshow’s 1/6 scale figure line, this version of Luke was a partnership with Hot Toys and shows what fans can expect from the new company.
With a review of the new Star Wars novel Heir to the Jedi, a review of the Disney Store exclusive Empire Strikes Back figure set, Star Wars Celebration Anaheim announcements, and more, it’s all in this week’s Star Wars Action News show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN444.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 443: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko, and More from the Javits Center
Want to lift X-Wing starfighters with the power of your mind? Or proudly display figures showing Darth Vader as a feudal samurai? What about having a rubbery vinyl toy of a Wampa with blood spilled down his front? From new Celebration Anaheim exclusives to toys that boggle the mind, all that and more was revealed in New York City’s Javits Center during Toy Fair International 2015!
On this episode of Star Wars Action News join Marjorie and Arnie for a virtual tour around the booths of Toy Fair featuring Statues, Role Playing Games, toys, housewares and more! Find out about the funky new Funko collectibles including a rainbow Bossk! Then hear an exclusive interview with Kotobukiya’s Dan Lujan to find out about upcoming statues, including the fate of the female Stormtrooper Bishoujo.
The Force Awakens in 2012, but not for 10 more months, so find out all the Star Wars goodies coming before then in this Star Wars Action News show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN443.MP3
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 442: Toy Fair 2015 Part 1 – Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and LEGO
Star Wars Celebration, San Diego Comic-Con, New York Comic-Con…when it comes to toy news they all pale compared to New York Toy Fair International. The show is where toy manufacturers reveal most of the toys that will ship throughout the year. The show is for the toy makers to sell to wholesalers and retailers, but press is let in and for collectors it becomes a preview of the year’s new Star Wars toys!
On the first part of the Star Wars Action News report from Toy Fair find out about all the announcements from some of the biggest Star Wars toy manufacturers–LEGO, Hasbro, and Jakks Pacific! With an exclusive interview with Hasbro’s Star Wars brand team and more, it’s all in this episode!
And check back next week for more interviews and news from Toy Fair!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN442.MP3
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Artist Mix Figures – Hulkbuster Iron Man, Captain America, Ultron, and More
The new Hot Toys’ collectible figure line, Artist Mix Figures, are now available for pre-order at Sideshow Collectibles!
As the name suggests, Hot Toys will collaborate with different artists and designers from various spectrums to re-imagine movie characters in a special art form with unique style.
To kick-off the Artist Mix Collection, Hot Toys is joining hands with famous Japanese toy artist Touma and introducing a number of Artist Mix Figures based on one of the biggest movies of 2015 – Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron!
This first series includes Iron Man Mark XLIII, Captain America, Hulkbuster, Ultron Prime, and two versions of Ultron Sentry!- Version A and Version B
In celebrating the launch of this new collectible series, a deluxe set will be available that includes the powerful Hulkbuster and Mark XLIII (Battle Damaged Version) which is exclusive to this figures set.
Each Artist Mix Figure has a bobble-head and stands approximately 14cm, or 5.5 inches, tall (Hulkbuster stands approximately 20cm, or 11.8 inches, tall) and perfectly combines the movie characters’ designs with Touma’s distinctive art style!
Touma is a Japanese toys character designer. He started his career at a video game company 10 years ago. In 2001, he established his own workshop and started to become a figurine artist. He had his solo exhibitions and autograph sessions not only in Japan, but also in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and America. He collaborated with many major brands such as MONSTER HUNTER, STAR WARS, TRANSFORMERS, AVP, GODZILLA, POWER RANGERS, and more.
Recently, Touma and his 3D animation partner Shiroma collaborated with Hot Toys for the first time to ignite the Artist Mix Collection series to further expand the diversity of mini figures collection. The series is based on the 2015 Marvel Studios blockbuster, Avengers: Age of Ultron, which perfectly blends the iconic characters with Touma’s unique design style.
These Artist Mix Figures will look great on your shelves or desk, so don’t miss the chance to expand your Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron collection!
**Prototype shown, final product may be slightly different
**Product details could be subjected to change without further notice
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 440: 2014 Year in Review Part 2 and 2015 in Preview
The Star Wars Action News Year-End shows conclude with this second part of the team’s roundtable discussion!
Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Steve “The Gingerprince”, Johnathan, Curtis, Daryl, Brock, Jay and Andrew to look back at the high-end collectibles that Force-d them to open their wallets! From Gentle Giant mini-busts to Sideshow Premium Format Figures and the new, high end sixth scale figure line from Hot Toys, it’s all discussed in this show!
Then the team puts 2014 to bed and looks forward to what 2015 Awakens. With the first new live-action Star Wars film in a decade coming this December, Rebels on television, and a new continuity for novels and comics, join them to hear what is in store!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN440.MP3
Preview: Sideshow’s J Scott Campbell Black Cat Polystone Statue
Sideshow Collectibles has released a teaser image for an upcoming Marvel Comics based statue of Spider-Man’s sometimes-lover sometimes-advisory The Black Cat.
This statue is the fourth release in Sideshow’s collection of Spider-Man and his girlfriends. All four statues are based on art by Marvel cover artist J. Scott Campbell.
While Black Cat, real name Felicia Hardy, is not an A-List Marvel character, her solid fanbase has already garnered her a number of statue releases. In addition to the mini-busts by Diamond Select Toys and Gentle Giant, plus statues by Bowen Designs, Sideshow has already released three Black Cat statues: The Black Cat comiquette based on art by Adam Hughes, The Black Cat quarter-scale Premium Format Figure, and the Black Cat Legendary Scale Bust. All three previous Black Cat statues have been long sold out from Sideshow’s site and collectors had to go to eBay to order.
This new Black Cat statue differs in style from the previous releases not only in that it is modeled after Campbell’s art, which often features exceptionally tall and thin representations of characters, but also in that her pose appears to be more sultry and seductive. The previous Sideshow Black Cat statues featured the criminal in an act of theft, while this one appears to be in a lascivious position.
The previous statues Sideshow has released in their J. Scott Campbell collection have been gorgeous-looking pieces. The podcast Marvelicious Toys has done video reviews of both the Mary Jane statue as well as the Gwen Stacy comiquette. The Mary Jane review was exceedingly positive; the Gwen Stacy review noted a persistent design flaw that caused the statue to repeatedly fall and break. It’s hard to tell from this preview image but collectors should hope that Black Cat is on a solid base and not imbalanced.
Sideshow had previously released a logo teasing the Black Cat statue’s release. In that image the feline felon was on all fours on a bed. This new tease promises a pose somewhat different from that original image, and it’s difficult to tell if this final design will feature her on a bed. If so, the design may be a nice counterpoint to Campbell’s Mary Jane statue.
All three previous J. Scott Campbell Spider-Man statues are released and shipping now from Sideshow Collectibles. You can get a head start on your collection now so the display is ready when the Black Cat arrives!
Check them out at Sideshow’s site:
To be among the first to know when Black Cat is up for pre-order you can follow Marvelicious Toys on Facebook and Twitter, and sign up for their Sales to Astonish newsletter to be e-mailed when the statue sale has gone live!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 439: 2014 Year in Review Part 1 – Hasbro Star Wars Toys
For Star Wars fans 2014 came in with a whimper but went out with a bang! From a year that started with few Star Wars figures to be found in either the 4 or 6-inch scales, it ended with Expanded Universe 6-Inch figures, new lines of 3.75-inch figures, and Star Wars fans everywhere trying to “get to da Chopper!”
Now in the first part of the Star Wars Action News year in review, the Star Wars Action News team looks back at 2014 from the point of view of a toy collector. Marjorie and Arnie are joined by several other collectors to rate the best and worst of Star Wars collecting this year!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN439.MP3
We Are (Baby) Groot! Pre-Order Alert
Hot Toys Enters the Quarter Scale Marvel Market in a Small Way with the pre-order for the Little Groot Quarter Scale Figure.
In 2012 Hot Toys announced they held the license for Quarter Scale Marvel Figures. The company is widely known for their detailed (and expensive) Marvel sixth scale figures, including over 20 versions of Iron Man, and many collectors wondered what the cost of such items would be. Yet since the announcement Hot Toys has limited their 1/4 Scale releases to Iron Man busts. Now Hot Toys releases their first full figure in Quarter Scale, but it’s not Iron Man, nor any other humanoid creature–it’s Little Groot, as seen at the end of this year’s top-grossing film Guardians of the Galaxy.
In 1/4 scale, this potted Groot stands about 5.5-inches tall. Yet the figure is fully bendable allowing for a variety of poses. With three separate head sculpts you can have serious Groot, dancing Groot, or super-happy Groot!
The collector in me is worried about long-term wear on the figure from too much bending, but the Groot fan in me finds this too cute to prevent me from buying it!
At under $45 I think this figure would be Hot Toys’ top-selling figure of all time, except the market is flooded with baby Groot figures. Funko has their POP Vinyl version released; a low-cost animatronic dancing Baby Groot has surfaced at Wal Mart stores in the USA, KIDdesigns has a dancing Baby Groot shipping this Spring, Dragon has a full-scale Baby Groot Maquette, and Hot Toys themselves have already put up for pre-order two different Baby Groot figures in the 1/6 scale line–accessories with the Rocket and (full size, adult) Groot 2-figure set.
Still, at under $45 this is a great gift item that will likely sell quickly. So go GROOT yours now at Sideshow Collectibles!
New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 438: Tarkin ‘Bout Toys
It’s been a long time since Star Wars action figure collectors could shop exclusively at their local brick-and-mortar stores to get the figures they wanted. Since the release of Hasbro’s The Vintage Collection in 2010 store supplies have been scarce. Now, however, that seems ready to change! Across the country collectors are finding new Black Series figures in both 3.75-inch and 6-inch lines, plus new Rebels and Mission Series figures too! On this episode of Star Wars Action News you can listen to find out which stores to hit to score full waves of new figures.
Also on this week’s show, Arnie and Marjorie discuss Hot Toys’ first exclusive release in their Star Wars Movie Masterpiece Series–the Shadow Stormtrooper. A repaint of their basic Stormtrooper figure, this release sold out in just a few hours at Sideshow Collectibles. What’s the fuss all about? Listen to find out!
With a review of James Lucino’s new Star Wars novel Tarkin and Jerry looking back on books of yesteryear, and ThinkGeek plushes too, you’ll find all this and more in this Episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN438.MP3
New Podcast: Episode 437: Black Friday Deals and 2014 Holiday Gift Guide
Want to know where to save big on Star Wars LEGOs, Blu Rays, and more this weekend? Then join Marjorie and Arnie for the 2014 Black Friday (and Thursday) shopping guide! While the Star Wars bargains are few, there are some choice items for those brave enough to face the lines and the crowds. Listen to this episode to find out what!
Then keep listening for the Star Wars Action News annual holiday gift guide! This year has gift ideas ranging from $3.00 to over $7,0000! No matter if you’re buying for young or old, man or woman, listen to find what to get the Star Wars collector who seems to already have everything!
And don’t forget to sign up for the Star Wars Action Sithmas Gift Exchange! Sign-ups end December 2nd. Get and give some Star Wars joy this season by joining this Secret Santa gift exchange! All the details are at http://www.swactionnews.com/Sithmas/
All this and more in this Episode of Star Wars Action News!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN437.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 436: Plastic Galaxy: The Story of Star Wars Toys
George Lucas’ 1977 space fantasy Star Wars changed the way American audiences consumed films. More, though, it also changed the landscape for movie merchandising, with more money being made on toys, games, and collectibles than on the movies themselves. Now the documentary Plastic Galaxy looks back at the first generation of Star Wars toys, released between 1977 and 1985 from Kenner. Does this film capture the childhood magic of Star Wars figures, and can the documentary appeal to anyone not already obsessed with little plastic Stormtroopers? Find out in this special Now Playing/Star Wars Action News crossover podcast hosted by Marjorie, Arnie, and Jerry!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN436.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Iron Man Mk II Maquette
The awesome Iron Man Mk II maquette, based on the design seen in the original Iron Man film, is now up for pre-order at Sideshow Collectibles!
This statue is replicated in 1/4 scale, standing 26-inches tall and weighing 15 pounds! The clean, silver suit is crafted from polystone and finished with a high gloss metallic paint and light-up features in the eyes, chest, and hands.
Add this to your own hall of armor now!
New Podcast: Episode 435: It’s the Yoda Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!
Halloween is this week and the costumes and decorations have started to go on sale! On this week’s Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie discuss the hard-to-find collectibles that combine Trick-or-Treating with the Galaxy Far, Far Away!
Also on this week’s show–reviews of two new 6-inch figures! First they look at the Hasbro Black Series Biker Scout with Speeder Bike, the first vehicle in the new, larger scale. Does it live up to the preview shown at SDCC?
And then the first Walgreens exclusive Hasbro Star Wars figure–Boba Fett in Prototype Armor. How does this compare to the original outfit, and is it worth the (bounty) hunt?
With Johnathan joining for an On The Pegs segment and a look at the latest offerings from Gentle Giant and Sideshow, it’s all on this new episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN435.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Pre-Order Alert: Spider-Man J Scott Campbell Maquette, Classic Colors, from Sideshow Collectibles
Up for pre-order right now is Sideshow Collectibles’ Spider-Man Classic Polystone Statue, part of their J. Scott Campbell Spider-Man Collection.
This statue stands over a foot-and-a-half tall, showing the wall crawler doing just that, ready to shoot his webs at an unknown enemy.
This statue is based on the same art and sculpt of their previous J. Scott Campbell Spider-Man statue, but features the web-head in his black-and-red coloring from the McFarlane era. More, the base is re-decorated showing a broken off, classic Spider-Man logo, resembling a comic book cover in three dimensions far more than the previous red and blue statue.
Sideshow Collectibles has been finding ways to reuse their sculpts for some time now. While this isn’t entirely new, they did a Gray Hulk and Negative Zone Spider-Man Premium Format Figures, it seems more prevalent now than before. In the past year they released the Storm Premium Format in white, the Gladiator Hulk redone as King Hulk, they used a new Hulk body to release three different Hulk statues, and then repainted their Deadpool Premium Format Gray.
On Marvelicious Toys I’ve usually railed against high-end repaints–it’s fine for a $12 or $20 figure, but seems excessive for a $300-$400 statue. In this case, however, it feels less like a cash-grab and more artistic. The exclusive version of the Campbell Spider-Man Maqeutte sold out, and this paint app has a totally different feel than the original. The different bases help differentiate the statue and make it feel like a nice option, or a chance for those who missed out on the original to get this new version of Spider-Man.
It’s up for pre-order now at $299, and a flex pay option is available. So place your order now at Sideshow’s site!
New Podcast: Episode 433: Collecting Nirvana in Aberdeen
Marjorie & Arnie are back from a trip across the American west, and of course they did some Star Wars shopping while there! Visiting with the members of SARLACC in Seattle, they visited several stores–including one of the oddest Star Wars toy shops out there. Watch to see a Star Wars shop unlike any other!
Also on this week’s show, new toys are showing up in stores! With the impending premiere of Rebels on Disney XD stores are stocking up with tons of new Star Wars merchandise from chairs to Christmas ornaments to even a few new action figures! Listen to find out what’s hitting, as well as a brief review of the Toys R Us exclusive Jedi Reveal Rebels figure 3-pack.
But the biggest news last week was a new sixth-scale Star Wars figure line from high end Hong Kong company Hot Toys! Through Sideshow Collectibles, the first two figures have gone up for pre-order–Han Solo and Chewbacca. Join Arnie, who has over 50 Hot Toys in his collection, to hear his impressions of these new Star Wars collectibles!
With a look at the Disney Store original trilogy figure sets, Halloween themed Star Wars collectibles, a review of the Star Wars Lootcrate and more, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News podcast!
And for our next show we want your input! What is your Star Wars collectible holy grail? A screen-used prop? A carded Vlix? A replacement for the stuffed Ewok you used to own? Let us know in our voicemail at 415-508-JEDI and your call may be used on our next show!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN433.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
The 40 Year-Old-Critic: Iron Man (2008)
In The 40-Year-Old Critic, Venganza Media creator and host Arnie Carvalho recalls a memorable film for each year of his life. This series appears daily on the Venganza Media Gazette.
We truly live in the golden age of Marvel movies. In the past six years Marvel Studios (and now Disney) have set the standard for comic-based films, and racked up some of the highest-grossing hits of all time.
This year, the company proved how golden it really is with Guardians of the Galaxy, a film featuring a talking raccoon and his friend, the tree. On paper, that’s laughable. This movie shouldn’t have worked; the concept is so far removed from The Avengers that it conjures up memories of Howard the Duck (who even made a cameo).
But as I sit here typing this, Guardians has the designation of being 2014’s top grossing picture in the U.S.
It’s a wild success story that no one could have predicted — certainly I didn’t — back in 2008 when Marvel Studios released its first film: Iron Man.
As I detailed in my reviews of Superman and Spider-Man 3, I was a Marvel Comics fan in my teen years. At my peak I had several thousand comic books; long boxes stuffed with popular titles like Spider-Man, X-Men, and The Incredible Hulk, as well as Darkhawk, Ravage 2099, and Fantastic Four. Conspicuous perhaps by his absence, I didn’t own a single issue of Iron Man.
The character did make appearances in many comics I owned. Massive crossovers such as Secret Wars prominently featured the Armored Avenger. Yet none of those appearances made me feel like picking up an Iron Man comic. A businessman who pretends to be his own bodyguard in a suit of armor? The concept sounded pretty cheesy. The suit’s design, a garish red and yellow, also was a turnoff. He could fly. He could shoot lasers from his hands. And? Why would I want to read about that?
More, why would I want to see a movie about that?
The arm-chair studio moguls online and in magazines like Entertainment Weekly seemed to agree with me. Phrases like “B-list superhero (at best)” were used to describe Iron Man. It is hard to believe now, but just seven short years ago Iron Man had virtually no name recognition among the common public. Marvel had sold the movie rights to many its most well-known superheroes, including Spider-Man, Hulk, Wolverine and the X-Men, and those characters had gone on to star in their own pictures. Even other B-listers like Daredevil, Blade, and Ghost Rider had been picked up by other studios. What did Marvel have left?
They had Captain America, a man out-of-time goody-two-shoes. They had Thor, a Norse god that may have been even less well-known in his comic incarnation than Iron Man. They had The Incredible Hulk, who had a good history but a recent box-office disappointment thanks to Ang Lee’s Hulk. And they had Iron Man.
Yet Marvel had a vision. More, they had a plan. They didn’t release one film in 2008, they released two. They let it be known immediately that they were going to do on screen what they had done in their comics: create a shared universe where characters would cross over. The end game was announced before Iron Man was in theaters, Marvel wanted to assemble The Avengers.
I thought it was crazy talk. While, thanks to Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings it had become more common to have sequels in production, or even entirely filmed, before the first film was released. Even those seemed risky though, with pundits noting Lord of the Rings could have bankrupted New Line Cinema. Yet here Marvel Studios was going this route for its first features.
Iron Man didn’t excite me, but Marvel’s strategy sure got my attention. It was audacious, it was bold, and it was risky. I admired them before I ever saw a frame of the film.
Even crazier — they hired Robert Downey, Jr. to play Iron Man/Tony Stark. If you’ll recall, in the late 90s and early 2000s, Downey had a fairly toxic reputation in Hollywood. His well-publicized battle with addiction and his prison stints had branded him as unreliable. Worse, he was uninsurable — no company would put up a bond for the actor lest he again be arrested and his filmed scenes became unusable.
Casting Robert Downey, Jr. was a risk, now where would Marvel be without him?
Despite his off-screen troubles, I had always been a fan of Downey. While I’d seen him in Weird Science and Back to School he first really caught my eye as someone to watch in The Pick-Up Artist, a film in which Downey is the only redeeming quality. I followed him for many years with Less Than Zero, Chances Are, Air America, hell I even watched Soapdish because he was in it. But two roles really defined Downey for me: his 1992 Oscar-nominated lead in Chaplin, and his role as a tabloid TV reporter in Natural Born Killers. But the more public his personal troubles became the more I felt he was an actor on the decline. I was really saddened by this — the man could act! From Two Girls and a Guy to U.S. Marshals to Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, I’d always been captivated by him.
That he was the star of Iron Man had me both worried and excited. On the one hand it seemed like on-the-nose casting — if I knew one thing about the Tony Stark character in comics it was that he was an alcoholic; if most people knew Downey for only one thing it was for his substance abuse problems.
The trailers with the rocking Black Sabbath track, Downey’s quick quips, the great action, and the effects — the film looked better than I expected; better than it deserved to look. Plus, rumors spread like wildfire that the film would include a cameo by Samuel L. Jackson as S.H.I.E.L.D. boss Nick Fury. By the time Iron Man was released, my curiosity was piqued.
Still, I was more interested in the second of Marvel’s one-two summer punch: The Incredible Hulk. I was a Hulk fan, he was the hero with name recognition; plus it had Edward Norton, an actor I believed was every bit as talented as Downey. But until Hulk came out I thought Iron Man could help me pass the time.
My expectations were low, but I was still there opening night to see Iron Man. I even drove 90 minutes to the closest new-fangled digital projector in the area.
The film, in short, rocked. I never expected to have so much fun in a superhero film. Movies like Blade, X-Men, and Batman Begins had seemed to say there was only one way to make a comic book movie, and that’s deadly serious. Iron Man eschewed that attitude with the flippant irreverence I’d expect from its main character. The movie did have its serious scenes, but the majority of the picture was filled with a kinetic energy and a constant sense of fun. I walked into the theater not getting Iron Man’s appeal; I walked out an Iron Man fan.
This was bolstered by Downey’s now-iconic performance. I couldn’t take my eyes off him. His jokes, his charisma, he owned this film. His line, “I am Iron Man,” was 100 percent accurate, for I couldn’t imagine this movie without him. Given the wide range of roles I’ve seen Downey portray I am hesitant to call this his best performance ever, but it is my favorite (with his 2008 follow-up Tropic Thunder a very close second).
Iron Man even brought Now Playing Podcast out of a brief retirement in 2008, and we followed up that short review with an even more extensive breakdown of the film for our Avengers Retrospective Series in 2012.
Yet, despite my love of the movie, I still thought Marvel’s overall strategy was ill-formed. Iron Man did well, Hulk did not. More, the only superhero film people seemed to remember from 2008 was Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight — a film that was more than a blockbuster, it was a cultural touchstone.
In 2008 it really seemed Marvel had lost the battle. More, they had no movies planned for 2009. Iron Man was a big enough hit to keep the wheels turning for Iron Man 2 in 2010 but I never thought Marvel could go the distance. Avengers seemed like a pipe dream.
Again, I bet wrong. Iron Man 2 built on the brand in 2010, and the following year saw two more Marvel films, Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger. Both did respectable business, but neither broke the $200 million domestic mark to be qualified as a blockbuster. They didn’t need to; Marvel was playing the long game, they were building a brand.
It paid off — big time. The Avengers took the world by storm. It almost seemed a rematch of Marvel versus DC as, that same year, Nolan returned with The Dark Knight Rises. Iron Man once again faced Batman, but this time Stark brought his friends and when 2012 ended it was The Avengers that had become the benchmark for comic book movies. Sorry, Batman.
Iron Man. He’s poseable!
Marvel Studios’ brazen gambit paid off in spades. Not only has the company become an unstoppable movie juggernaut, they have expanded their cinematic universe to weekly network television, to four different Netflix series’, and even drawn plans for up to three movies per year in the future.
Other studios now desperately try to ape Marvel’s success. After trying for 20 years to get Batman and Superman on screen together, next year finally brings us Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, with a list of superheroes that include Wonder Woman, Cyborg, and — according to rumor — Aquaman, the Flash, and others. DC is now playing catch-up to Marvel.
Even other studios with Marvel properties have tried to follow this formula, though to less success. The same year The Avengers was released Sony tried to build its own multi-chapter story with The Amazing Spider-Man. This year they announced that a Spidey universe of films is coming, including two spin-offs featuring villains — Sony is now grasping for whatever characters to which they hold rights. At 20th Century Fox, studio executives also bet big-time on their X-Men franchise, bringing back original director Bryan Singer to revitalize the series. The Marvel Studios tactic of ending each film with a “stinger” to tease the next picture is now so commonplace, audience members are afraid to leave the theater before the end credits are finished.
Yes, for the past 6 years movies have been following Marvel Studios’ formula. It all started with a big gamble that paid off: Iron Man.
As for me, Iron Man opened a door that had been cracked the year before with Spider-Man 3. The Marvel movies were really an exciting property to follow. My dormant comic fandom was back with a vengeance. Marjorie, knowing my love of Iron Man, bought me my first high-end Marvel collectibles: a Hot Toys “Mech Test” Tony Stark figure, as well as a Kotobukiya Iron Man statue. The door was opened and before long the podcast Marvelicious Toys was launched as a companion piece to Star Wars Action News, focusing specifically on Marvel collecting.
More, Marvel Studios’ films had me wanting to build up to The Avengers. Now Playing Podcast had been following, almost exclusively, the retrospective format in 2009 and 2010, but after seeing Iron Man 2 I pitched to co-hosts Stuart and Jakob the craziest, biggest retrospective yet: every Marvel movie ever. Up until then our series’ had all been of manageable length of a dozen films or less. It took a year of discussion. First, Stuart thought we should only do the six Marvel Studios films. Then he thought we should do the major franchises. Finally he agreed to all theatrical films, and we had started Now Playing’s Complete Marvel Movie Retrospective. Over time I was even able to find a back door — several 1970s TV movies had aired in theaters in foreign countries.
It put Now Playing on a path to greater success, as described in my review of Howard the Duck — our first review in that very long series.
Yet while I still ride the high Iron Man gave me in 2008, bolstered regularly by a new “fix” from Marvel Studios, I do wonder how long this will last. Movies are defined by trends; after Star Wars every studio fast-tracked their space films, but by the mid-80’s those had become passé; after Gremlins any script with tiny attackers, from Ghoulies to Critters was given the green light. The cases of Hollywood me-too-ism are legion, but they all have one thing in common: they end when the next big thing comes along.
I often ruminate on what that next trend will be, and when audiences will tire of the serialized cinema storytelling and prefer movies that provide a singular experience with no “to be continued…” at the end. I have no doubt that day will come, but I think we’re in for many more years of the Marvel Age of cinema before we get there.
Tomorrow — 2009!
Arnie is a movie critic for Now Playing Podcast, a book reviewer for the Books & Nachos podcast, and co-host of the collecting podcasts Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys. You can follow him on Twitter @thearniec
New Podcast: Episode 432: A New Dawn for Star Wars Fiction
Last Spring it was announced that the Star Wars canon was taking a new direction. To pave way for the upcoming Episode VII as well as the Rebels TV series the previous Star Wars “Expanded Universe” was reclassified as Star Wars Legends, wiping the slate clean for a new era of Star Wars stories. That begins today with the release of A New Dawn, the Star Wars Rebels tie-in novel by John Jackson Miller. In this episode of Star Wars Action News Brock joins us with a review of this first novel in a new age of Star Wars fiction.
Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie review Hasbro’s 4th wave of Black Series 3.75-inch figures. From Dagobah Luke to Yoda to Toryn Farr, watch the video to see hands-on reviews of these collector-oriented figures!
With reports from Wizard World Chicago and GenCon, eating fresh with Rebels, and much more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN432.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 431: Exclusive Showdown
The irony of San Diego Comic-Con is that while everyone rushes to buy the exclusives, there’s no time at the con to really look at them! Now Marjorie and Arnie are back home and have unpacked their SDCC shipment, and are ready to tell you if Hasbro’s 6-Inch Jabba the Hut exclusive, or the SDCC/Toys R Us exclusive Cantina Showdown set, was worth the trouble.
Also on this week’s show Steve the Gingerprince reports in from the London Film and Comic Con. With a not-too-surprising number of Star Wars guests (given where Episode VII is filming) and tons of toys, listen in to find out about that European event.
With Johnathan telling us what’s hitting stores, a look at the Star Wars Celebration pin set, and more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!
We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN431.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Emma Frost Premium Format Figure
The White Queen Emma Frost has already been recreated as a Sideshow Premium Format Figure, in a statue based on the art of J. Scott Campbell. That statue, released back in 2009, is still a great piece but as Sideshow’s roster of quarter-scale X-Men has grown, that older statue did not fit with the more realistic aesthetics of the modern Premium Format line. Numerous fans have requested Sideshow revisit Emma Frost in a style that would go alongside the figures of the past few years like Cyclops, Storm, and Jean Gray.
Now Sideshow has put up for pre-order the brand new version of Emma Frost. Standing 20-inches tall, designed by Kris Anka, this new Emma looks as she did as the 1980 Queen of the Hellfire Club. The statue’s base is themed after that hedonistic, underground society.
And if you hurry and get Sideshow’s Exclusive Edition you get a swap-out head showing the White Queen with her short hair. These alternate heads on Rogue and Storm have driven the prices of exclusive editions sky-high on eBay, but now you can get one for the regular price!
I saw this statue in person at San Diego Comic-Con. While it may be on the risque side for some collectors, the piece is beautifully sculpted. The long cape in back is fur trimmed and able to be draped in a number of ways. This statue is great for Frost fans be it in her comics, in X-Men: First Class or even X-Men Origins: Wolverine or that old Generation X TV movie!
She is scheduled to ship in April, 2015 and Flex-Pay is available, so get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Sentinel Maquette
Last year Sideshow Collectibles released their gorgeous, giant Galactus Maquette. Now they have given Galactus a companion — The X-Men killer Sentinel robot!
This killer was originally conceived by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby and has become a staple in X-Men stories including the recent film X-Men: Days of Future Past. Three stories tall with tons of mutant-killing gadgets, these robots mean business!
Now Sideshow gives this character a giant collectible worthy of its fictional stature. Standing 32-inches tall, weighing 20 lbs, this Maquette has a representation of the character in his classic purple and blue color scheme. Plus he has light-up hands and swap-out heads with both classic and modern looks.
You can see a review of the Galactus Maquette in Marvelicious Toys Issue 99 and check out hundreds of photos in the Marvelicious Toys Photogallery. This Sentinel is bound to have the same quality, and no X-Men fan’s collection will be complete without it!
A payment plan is available as low as $81 per month, so don’t wait, get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Gentle Giant Announces SDCC Exclusive Rocket Raccoon Mini-Bust!
Every year since obtaining the Marvel license for mini-busts in 2011 Gentle Giant has released an animal-related San Diego Comic-Con International exclusive. First in 2011 was Squirrelpool. In 2012 came Thor Frog. In 2013 we were given Spider-Ham.
But in 2014, with the Guardians of the Galaxy movie opening one week after Comic-Con, one Marvel animal was the obvious choice for this year’s exclusive–Rocket Raccoon.
Unlike the previous animal releases, however, Rocket is a full-sized mini-bust standing almost 5 inches tall, and coming in at the regular $70 retail price.
This item will be available for sale (and, with the upcoming film, likely really hard to get) at San Diego Comic-Con, but if you’re in Gentle Giant’s Premiere Guild you can pre-order him now and have him shipped to your door! Even if you’re going to the convention, given the heat on this furry guy this summer I highly suggest pre-ordering and quickly–Gentle Giant’s McQuarrie Luke Skywalker Mini-Bust has pre-sold out and I expect Rocket will do the same!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ KING HULK Premium Format Figure
Hulk is an interesting Marvel Comics character. Envisioned originally by Stan Lee as an anti-hero, a monster like the Werewolf and Frankenstein, his comic was cancelled after 6 issues. The character never went away, though, and despite middling sales he became the first Marvel Superhero to have a mass media break-out with the 1970s TV Series. The 80s were a pretty good time for Hulk–in addition to the NBC Saturday morning cartoon he also had a great comics run by Todd McFarlane and Peter David in the late 80s and early 90s that expanded the character and took him to new places psychologically. While he never became as globally recognizable as Spider-Man, Hulk certainly seemed to be Marvel’s #2 guy.
But translating that success to mainstream audiences seemed hard. Ang Lee’s Hulk film, released the year after Sam Raimi’s blockbuster Spider-Man, failed to find an audience. The Marvel Cinematic Universe 2008 Incredible Hulk reboot also disappointed and has been mostly forgotten in all the future Marvel movies. It took Joss Wheadon and The Avengers to make Hulk a stand-out star. While holding off on a Hulk solo film, all the anticipation about Avengers 2 seems to be about the big green guy.
But could even Hulk lift all the Premium Format products Sideshow has now been releasing? Shortly after The Avengers hit theaters Sideshow Collectibles put up for pre-order their Hulk Maquette. This statue is still available to order, and it was a gorgeous, huge piece showing the character in his Avengers movie incarnation.
But for a comic inspired Hulk fans had to wait quite a while. Finally in late 2013 Sideshow offered up Gladiator Hulk, showing the character in armor from Greg Pak’s popular 2006 story arc. While we commented on Marvelicious Toys that anyone unfamiliar with the character arc may confuse this Hulk for an Orc from World of Warcraft, it is a huge piece showing a more comic-book familiar rendition of Bruce Banner’s alter ego. (This statue is set to ship next month and is still available).
But finally, over the past two months, Sideshow has gone back to the original comics and offered not one, not two, but three Incredible Hulk statues. A repaint of the same body, with different heads and, in the case of Gray Hulk, an exclusive shirt, Sideshow let fans have their choice of Hulk in red, gray, or green.
I have pre-ordered all four of those recent Hulk statues, inspired by the quality and craftsmanship shown in the Avengers maquette. But when the Gray Hulk Premium Format went up for pre-order I felt that Sideshow had reached the end of its Hulk run.
Imagine my surprise when Sideshow today announced a new Planet Hulk inspired Hulk Premium Format Figure–King Hulk!
There is no doubt this is an impressive statue. Standing 28-inches tall, weighing 25 pounds, this figure shows off Hulk’s ripped body with his metal arm plate and wielding two weapons. More, it is a Sideshow Exclusive product ensuring rarity. You can pre-order this figure now from Sideshow Collectibles, and Flex Pay options are available as low as $77.14 per month.
But…how many Hulks are too many Hulks?
Let us know in the comments below!
Today only Kotobukiya Fine Art Psylocke, 29% off + Free shipping
Today only Entertainment Earth has a great bargain on the Kotobuikiya Psylocke Fine Art statue. Until midnight PST Psylocke is 29% off with free shipping!
From Kotobukiya! X-Force cannot be stopped! The incredible Fine Art Statue line has captured members X-23, Warpath, Dead pool, Archangel and Wolverine and now it expands to include the telepathic mutant ninja and current leader of Uncanny X-Force, PSYLOCKE! The deadly telepathic mutant stands on a ruined battlefield, focused intently on her enemies and ready to attack! Psylocke balances with her feet spread wide, gripping the broken pillar beneath her with her Japanese tabi-style boots. She leans forward with one katana held in a low guard position before her, her other hand poised behind her to strike. You can see the ninja training at work in Psylocke’s perfectly held pose, with just the floating of her long purple hair and sash to show that the world is affecting her. The powerful mutant wears her distinctive X-Force outfit consisting of a sleek black skin-tight costume, thigh high boots, long fingerless gloves and unique straps around her upper arms and legs plus a white sash belt decorated with the red and black X-Force symbol. As beautiful as she is deadly, Betsy’s likeness is spot on and conveys her otherworldly grace. As an added bonus, interchangeable parts let you display Psylocke with a second katana in her left hand or the swirling purple energy of her psychic knife! Sculpted by Erick Sosa, Psylocke stands over 10 Inch tall on her georama base in 1/6th scale with the other X-Force Fine Art Statues. Get her while you can before this psychic ninja disappears!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Dr. Doom Premium Format Figure
In the comics Victor Von Doom once said: “How to destroy a man: give him his heart’s desire.”
If that is the case I imagine many Marvel Comics fans will be destroyed by today’s new offering from Sideshow Collectibles–the Dr. Doom Premium Format Figure.
This is the second Premium Format release of the Fantastic Four baddie. The first Dr. Doom Premium Format was released in 2006. Only 1,000 of the regular edition were made, and only 500 of the exclusive (which came with a bonus chalice and base). Being an early release in Sideshow’s Marvel Comics line and so limited has made the price skyrocket on eBay–the exclusive edition recently sold for over $3,200! That Doom and his goblet have long been the holy grail for many Marvel collectors, myself included. Even the more common regular edition, without the golden cup, sells for over $2,000. This has simply priced most people out of getting Dr. Doom in their Premium Format collection.
Now frustrated Doom fans have their chance with this new release, and Sideshow has made sure this new Doom is very different from the last. While the 2006 release had Doom contemplative, sitting on his throne, this release shows Doom ready for action, standing, fist clenched. The Sideshow Exclusive Edition even comes with a swap-out hand holding a gun, showing his lethal intent.
A combination of polystone and soft goods, this new Doom stands nearly 2-feet tall and weighs 12 lbs.
You’ve seen what the previous Sideshow Exclusive Doom sells for, so why are you still reading this? Hurry and secure your Exclusive Doom today! It is expected to ship next May, and Flex Pay is available.
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 20-inch Iron Man Mk 42 Maquette
It’s time to pre-order the new bad-ass baby brother of Tony Stark’s armor collection — the Mark 42 armor from Iron Man 3!
Working with Legacy Effects, the company behind Iron Man 3’s impressive visuals, Sideshow Collectibles has now created what they call “the ultimate screen-accurate representation of Stark in his latest and greatest armor.”
This piece is called a “maquette” but it is a perfect fit for the Sideshow Premium Format line of Marvel Cinematic Universe figures. Built to one-quarter scale (20 inches tall!) with exacting detail and a tremendous likeness of Robert Downey Jr. this statue is sure to rock your collection!
Pre-orders are open now, so secure your order today at SideshowCollectibles.com!
Pre-Order Alert: We have a (Gray) Hulk from Sideshow Collectibles
Hulk has always been one to change colors. The original Stan Lee vision for Hulk was that he would be gray in color, and he was in his first appearance in Incredible Hulk #1. Printing process limitations had Hulk turn green for issue 2, and green he stayed for 20 years–until Incredible Hulk issue 324 when writer Allen Milgrom changed the character to a slightly weaker, smarter, and gray version.
Gray Hulk persisted into a spotlight run of Hulk comics written by Peter David and illustrated by up-and-coming artist Todd McFarlane (whatever happened to that guy?). Incredible art and even better writing combined to turn Hulk into Joe Fixit and several other incarnations before David turned him Green once more.
In the years since Gray Hulk has made several memorable cameos and appearances, and now he can appear in your collection! Sideshow Collectibles put up for pre-order the Gray Hulk Premium Format Figure, completing the trio of Hulk statues.
Like the others, this statue is 20-inches tall, weighs a hefty 20 pounds, and has detailed sculpting with a unique Gray Hulk head. But if you get the exclusive edition you get an extra accessory not found elsewhere — an orange shirt inspired by Hulk’s first story in Incredible Hulk #1 (pictured right). I checked with Sideshow and this shirt is removable so if you get the exclusive version you can display him topless or in his torn orange shirt.
So hurry and get your pre-order for Gray Hulk in today!
If you want other Hulks, the Red Hulk Exclusive Premium Format Figure has less than 10 remaining before it is sold out! It is limited to 500 pieces so you’ll have a truly limited collectible. The Green Hulk Exclusive Figure’s edition size has yet to be determined but is still available for order.
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Premium Format Daredevil, Hot Toys Iron Man Busts Series 2
It’s Thursday, and that means new Marvel pre-orders from Sideshow Collectibles! Today they put up for pre-order a long-awaited new Premium Format Figure and eight new Iron Man armors from Hot Toys!
For the Premium Format Figure we have — Daredevil! While some classic Marvel characters like Captain America, the Red Skull, and Hulk are getting their second Premium Format statues (technically Hulk is on his 4th, not counting Skaar!) Daredevil, despite being a long-time comic book favorite and an original Stan Lee creation, has never gotten the quarter scale treatment. I have seen many people on Sideshow’s Twitter feed, Facebook page, and site comments asking when ol’ hornhead would finally get the devil’s due. The answer is today–Sideshow has finally put a Daredevil Premium Format Figure up for pre-order!
Showing the classic hero in his red outfit, Daredevil is in a striking action pose, mid-strike, holding his billy clubs in one hand and ready to throw a punch with the other. He stands 17-inches tall and weighs 12 lbs, and is expected to ship in March, 2015.
Surprisingly there is no exclusive edition of this figure. While Daredevil doesn’t have the gadgets of some heroes, I thought an unmasked portrait or swap-out hand would be a given. Even in cases where there were no accessories Sideshow would often make an exclusive edition with an art print. However there is only one version of Daredevil here. (Though, given their recent repaints of Premium Format Figures like Deadpool, Storm, the Stormtrooper, and 3 different Hulk paint jobs, I would not be surprised in 2-3 months to see a Yellow-clad Daredevil Premium Format show up in an extremely limited edition).
But if you prefer your heroes in armor, Hot Toys has 8 new Iron Man collectibles for you! Continuing to rock the House Party Protocol, Hot Toys has put up for pre-order Series 2 of their sixth-scale collectible busts. Seven of these busts are available for order individually–the Mark VII, Mark 20-Python, Mark 22-Hot Rod, Mark 23-Shades, Mark 27-Disco, Mark 28-Jack, and Mark 40-Shotgun. However if you order the set of 8 you get an exclusive bust unavailable for individual purchase–the holographic light-up Mark XLII! (is it me or does the Disco armor look like Mystique with a mohawk?) You can pre-order this set now and it’s expected to ship in January, 2015!
And as always thank you for using our affiliate links to support the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
May the SALES Be With You!
It’s May the 4th time again, and what started as an internet joke has become a major marketing tool for Lucasfilm and their partners to offer discounts on Star Wars items, or release new, exclusive ones! With all the news that is going to be released on the 4th, keep checking back to this page as we update with all the sales info!
And do you know of a sale we missed? E-mail us the details at show@swactionnews.com
Toys and Statues
Entertainment Earth has two sales going on! May 4th only all in-stock Star Wars Action Figures are on sale! This includes older figures, comic packs, and the new Black Series figures in both 3.75-inch and 6-inch scales! But also at Entertainment Earth all week you can get Star Wars statues and busts for 20% off. This sale includes pre-orders so get your Kotobukiya Mara Jade or your Gentle Giant Padme, Yoda, and Holiday Special Boba Fett!
Not a sale, but Sideshow Collectibles unveiled a new life-sized Star Wars statue — Yoda. This is the third life-sized item recently, added to the Han Solo in Carbonite and Boba Fett statues.
Sideshow also put up for pre-order their exclusive 1/6 Scale R2-D2 Deluxe figure. The exclusive edition comes with 3 extra accessories – a saw arm, a laser welding arm, and a spacecraft linkage arm!
Amazon.com has all their FX Lightsabers for 37% off! This is good through May 10th. Plus keep your eye on Amazon for the Black Series 6-Inch Stormtrooper which has been popping in and out of stock.
LEGO.com has another exclusive minifigure for May 4th this year — Darth Revan from Knights of the Old Republic! He is free at Lego.com with a purchase of $75 or more. You can also get a free Star Wars LEGO poster with any Star Wars LEGO Purchase.
Midtown Comics has ALL their Star Wars statues, figures, and more for 20% off May 4th only.
Rancho Obi-Wanis offering, today only, 15% off all of their fixed-price eBay auctions!
Plus Star Wars Action News sponsor Brian’s Toys has added nearly 1,000 Vintage Figures to their web site, so if you’re wanting to complete your vintage Star Wars collection now is the time! And through May 18th you can get $15 off any order at Brian’s Toys $75 or more by using coupon code 4THBWU at checkout!
Books, Comics, and Video
Dark Horse comics is again having their digital May the 4th Megabundle. This is 150 digital Star Wars comics for just $100, including series like Crimson Empire, Dark Times, and the new Star Wars series! They also have a May the 4th Kids MegaBundle for only $30 which comprises 18 comics and small books aimed at younger readers.
With Star Wars Episode 7 coming out the Star Wars Insider will have plenty of new, exclusive content. And through May 5th you can get 20% off with a subscription plus a free, exclusive T-Shirt!
Amazon also has their Star Wars DVDs and Blu Rays on sale, including the Star Wars films and the five seasons of The Clone Wars.
Amazon’s Star Wars eBooks and eComics are also on sale with tons of graphic novels for 99 cents or $1.99 and dozens of novels at discount as well (even if most of them are Legends now).
Gus Lopez and Duncan Jenkins are having a sale on their Star Wars Collectors’ books! Throughout all of May you can purchase their Price Guide for only $25, or bundle it with their guide to Star Wars Prototypes for just $50.
Clothes
Her Universe is celebrating the day with 40% off most of their Star Wars items, plus unveiling new designs and a “mystery tee”
Also Think Geek is having 20% off most of their Star Wars items including a Han in Carbonite rug, Star Wars chopsabers, their Dark Roast Coffee, Hoodies, and so, so much more!
Cufflinks.com is having 37% off all their Star Wars items on May 4th only. They have a very cool, wide selection of ties, socks, money clips, and (shocker!) cufflinks!
Amazon has some exclusive REBELS T-Shirts as well.
Hot Topic has 20% off all their Star Wars items, which is mostly T-Shirts but also some stickers, posters, car accessories, and POP Vinyl figures.
For even more Star Wars T-Shirts We Love Fine has 25% off their Star Wars T-Shirts May 4th only with coupon code MAYTHEFOURTH14
Video Games and Tech
Steam has their Star Wars gaming bundle on sale for 2/3 off, getting you 14 classic Star Wars games, including ttlefront II, Jedi Knight 1 and 2, The Force Unleashed, Knights of the Old Republic, Dark Forces, and many more for $33.99.
Sony and Microsoft also both have sales on their digital console games on their respective online stores.
If you still have a need for thumb drives (or just like cute designs) Mimoco has 20% off all their Star Wars MIMOBOTs on May 4th only.
Misc
Super 7 has a new silkscreened 16 x 20 Darth Vader poster, limited to 200, available starting today.
Check back here as we will be updating the page all day long, and if there’s a sale of note that we missed e-mail us!
Why Now is the Time To Order Your Kotobukiya Mara Jade Statue
News was revealed last Friday on StarWars.com that the Star Wars Expanded Universe is no longer canonical. As discussed on the Star Wars Action News podcast covering C2E2 2014, the previous Star Wars continuity is being rebranded “Legends”. Now a new Star Wars canon begins, with only the six Star Wars films and The Clone Wars TV Series considered gospel.
This turns 23 years of novels, beginning with Timothy Zahn’s Heir to the Empire into an extended “what if” scenario. Chewbacca was no longer killed by a moon. Luke was never Lando’s wingman on the latter man’s quest for a wife. Princess Leia never had three children (two of whom were later killed).
And this also means Luke Skywalker never met, married, and had a child with Mara Jade. More, Jade never existed. All the retcons of this Force-strong female working in secret for the Emperor, infiltrating Jabba’s palace, and later murdered by her nephew, are all now an alternate take on what happens in the Star Wars universe.
With this rebranding all future Star Wars fiction, from books to comics to movies to video games, is being monitered by a Lucasfilm Story Group. Some characters and events can be cherry picked from the “Legends” timeline if future creators wish, but as of today we face a new Star Wars where Mara Jade is not only dead, she never existed at all.
Which is why I placed my order today for the Kotobukiya Mara Jade Bishoujo Statue. And I highly suggest you do the same. Plus, if you haven’t already, get Kotobukiya’s first Star Wars Bishoujo statue, Jaina Solo.
I have asked the reps at Kotobukiya about the Mara Jade statue on several occasions, most recently in February at New York Toy Fair 2014. It was at that event that Hasbro Vice President Daryl DePriest mentioned that his company was no longer allowed by Lucasfilm to make or rerelease characters from the Star Wars Expanded Universe. Given that stance I have been worried that Kotobukiya’s second Star Wars Bishoujo statue may never see the light of day.
Now scheduled for release within the next 30 days I do now believe Kotobukiya’s Mara Jade will be released. However, given the character’s deep love in the community (the well-known Star Wars book site Club Jade, is named after her), I now think this statue will sell very quickly.
The Jaina Solo Bishoujo statue sold out from resellers and the price went up considerably on the secondary market. Realizing the demand for that statue Kotobukiya produced another run and she is now priced at $49.95 shipped on Amazon.
But with the new status quo of the Star Wars Expanded Universe, wiping both of these characters away, I wonder:
1) Once these statues sell out, would Kotobukiya choose to do another run for a character that’s removed from continuity?
2) If Kotobukiya chose to make more of these statues, would Lucasfilm allow them to continue to manufacture non-canonical characters? (Especially given that Hasbro cannot?)
3) If these statues, especially Mara Jade, become as rare and coveted as I expect, what will happen to their prices on the secondary market?
Once before Kotobukiya produced a Bishoujo statue they were not allowed to make another run of–DC Comics’ Catwoman. That statue, that originally retailed for about $65, is now over $200 on eBay. I can certainly see a similar fate for Mara Jade.
And that is why I placed my order today, to ensure I received a Mara Jade statue from Kotobukiya’s first shipment, securing her place in my collection. The Expanded Universe may reboot, but my fandom of those characters continues, and I want them represented in my Star Wars display.
If you are fans of these characters, I suggest you do the same and order your Mara Jade today!
Do you agree? Disagree? Will you be ordering the Mara Jade? Let me know in the comments below!
Pre-Order Alert! Sideshow Premium Format EXCLUSIVE Incredible Hulk!
He’s mean, he’s green, he’s mad, and he’s up for pre-order! It’s Sideshow’s new Incredible Hulk Premium Format Figure!
Standing over 20-inches tall and weighing 20 lbs, this Hulk is the most strongest Premium Format Figure there is!
And if you order now you can get the exclusive version with the swap-out head with a classic Hulk portrait!
So hurry and put your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Star Wars Collecting: A discounted Boba Fett, Sideshow’s Savage Opress, and a Life Sized Han in Carbonite
Star Wars Collectors have three new items to check out today!
The first two come from Sideshow Collectibles
as they continue their high end line of Star Wars memorabilia. First up is a new Premium Format Figure — Savage Opress. As seen in The Clone Wars cartoon series, Savage is the Zabrack brother of Darth Maul. Transformed into an unstoppable killing machine by Nightsister magic this character has been everything–Sith apprentice, rogue assassin, loyal brother, and more. And now you can own this reproduction of the character in 1/4 scale. Standing over 21-inches tall, weighing 15 pounds, this statue can stand alone or compliment Sideshow’s previous Darth Maul Premium Format Release.
But for the big spenders out there, Sideshow also has quite the trophy for your collection: A life sized Han Solo in Carbonite. Icons’ version of this piece has been sought by collectors for nearly two decades, but now Sideshow has rendered that older piece obsolete. Standing on a platform that recreates Cloud City’s carbon freeze chamber, with a light up side panels and rear power canister, this is quite simply the most accurate prop replica ever made of this piece. Standing 7.5 feet tall this is a true centerpiece for Star Wars collectors.
But after two high priced items, how about a bargain? Today only (April 10, 2014) Entertainment Earth has on sale the Boba Fett: A good Day to Die Giclee Print from Acme Archives. This art print is 19-inches tall and 13-inches wide and was limited to only 50 prints worldwide. From artist William Silvers this print has artistic flourishes that accent the artistic nature of the print while also showing the bounty hunter in all his glory. It’s 34% off, only $95, until midnight tonight so order yours now!
PREORDER ALERT: Thor and Thor Frog from Sideshow Collectibles
Today, with the opening of Captain America: The Winter Soldier in theaters, most Marvel fans have their minds on the First Avenger, but Sideshow Collectibles is bringing our attention back to the Mightiest Avenger with two new preorders of items for Thor! (would this be a preor-thor?)
First, in Sideshow’s one-quarter scale Premium Format Figure line comes Modern Age Thor. Based off Olivier Coipel’s designs for the thunder god in J. Michael Straczynski’s 2007-2009 run this figure looks as powerful as the character. From the pre-release photos Sideshow has outdone themselves with the sculpting of Thor’s metallic mail. A mixed-media piece, Thor has a fabric tunic with gold piping, but a sculpted cape guaranteed to accentuate the pose of Thor ready to strike! With the winged helmet atop his head and Mjolnir in his hand, this statue is one of the best Sideshow has revealed to date.
And it certainly has the size and heft of Thor’s hammer. The statue stands 21 inches tall and weighs 15 pounds! Surely a centerpiece for any Thor fan!
As usual, Sideshow has also put up for pre-order the exclusive edition of this statue which comes with a swap-out hand allowing Thor to wield the mighty (and giant) Odinsword. While not as iconic as the stone hammer, fans of Marvel’s Norse gods will surely snatch this up and, as always, drive the exclusive version’s secondary market cost high.
You can order the regular or exclusive Thor Premium Format Statue now at Sideshow Collectibles!
And there is also another, more unique, Sideshow item up for pre-order: the Thor Frog Diorama, with a design based off Walt Simonson’s 1980s comic where Loki turns Thor into a Frog. This statue is much smaller, standing 6 inches tall, but has a really detailed sculpt and glossy paint application. Sideshow has gone more amphibian with this statue than Gentle Giant did on their Throg mini-bust. With Thor Frog sitting on a stump holding Frogjolnir, this is a cute accent piece that will certainly draw the eye of someone viewing your display.
The Thor Frog Diorama is $99, but if you buy the diorama and the Premium Format Thor you save $20, bringing the diorama down to a really cheap $79!
So hurry and order one or both Thor products today from Sideshow Collectibles! And thank you for supporting our podcasts by using our links whenever ordering from Sideshow!
Also, some other Marvel Premium Format Figures still available from Sideshow
- Marvel Red Hulk Marvel Premium Format(TM) Figure
- Captain America – The First Avenger Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Captain America Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Gladiator Hulk Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Apocalypse Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Black Widow Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Red Skull Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Captain America Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Hear a review of The Punisher Premium Format Figure on Marvelicious Toys Podcast Issue 112!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Red Hulk Premium Format Figure – Exclusive and Regular Editions
Sideshow’s Premium Format Figure collection is hitting hard–with a Hulk! Coming right out of Jeph Loeb’s 2008 Hulk series, the Red Hulk, later revealed to be longtime Hulk nemesis General Thunderbolt Ross irradiated, invulnerable, and mad. It’s the first of three Hulk Premium Format Figures Sideshow will be releasing in 2014!
This statue has gorgeous sculpting that fits the REd Hulk perfectly, with huge muscles and veins. It stands 20 inches tall and 20 inches wide, weighing over 18 pounds!
More, if you hurry you can get the exclusive edition that comes with a swap-out head with the yellow X on the forehead from when Rulk was hit with Thor’s hammer.
It’s expected to ship this September and the edition size is still to be determined, so don’t miss out–get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Deal Alert: Gentle Giant C6 Exclusive Clone Trooper Statue – 35% Off
Gentle Giant’s Star Wars statues are often in high demand with edition sizes over 1,000. And Clone Troopers from the Star Wars prequel films are fan-favorites–they’re like stormtroopers with big guns and good aim! So it makes no sense to me, no sense at all, that Gentle Giant’s Clone Trooper Lieutenant Statue, exclusive to Star Wars Celebration VI in 2012 and with an edition size of only 600, is not only still available but (today only) 35% off at Entertainment Earth.
This statue, showing the blue-accented clone in a kneeling position, stands 10 inches tall, and comes with the Gentle Giant signature black base, with a high-gloss top that reflects the bright white armor of the statue.
It’s Entertainment Earth’s daily deal, and I have to believe that quantities of this statue are dwindling. In years to come fans and collectors may well kick themselves for passing on this piece, so get yours today!
TODAY ONLY – 35% Off Bowen Statues at EE
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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!
New Podcast: Episode 413: 2013 Year In Review Part 2 – Statues, Books, LEGO, and More!
Note: Star Wars Action News’ enhanced podcasts are now full HD video podcasts! Read all about it in Arnie’s blog post.
In 2013 Gentle Giant had the Admiral Ackbar Magnitude bust, Sideshow Collectibles had Premium Format Figures from The Force Unleashed and The Old Republic video games, and LEGO sold a Fury-Class Interceptor from The Old Republic. In short, for Star Wars collecting companies the universe expanded last year. In this episode of the Star Wars Action News podcast join Arnie, Marjorie, Nathan, Brock, Steve, and Jerry as they look back on the strange and interesting year where companies tried to find a footing marketing Star Wars while biding their time until Episode VII in 2015! We look back on the books, busts, statues, 1/6 scale figures, LEGO sets and so much more in this new video-enhanced Star Wars Action News podcast!
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN413.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 411: Get the 411 On Star Wars Discounts
Collecting Hasbro’s Star Wars toys is filled with highs and lows, and this holiday season it seems to be both at once! While the new 6-inch and 3.75-inch Black Series figures remain elusive, bargains abound on exclusive vehicles and figures. On this week’s podcast Marjorie and Arnie look at the discounts and tell you how to save the most money on the toys, and also discuss what these markdowns may mean for future exclusives. All that, plus a detailed review of Hasbro’s Black Series Wave 2, including Mara Jade, Pablo Jill, and more!
Also on this week’s show it’s a special focus on Star Wars trading cards. Jerry’s Vintage Viewpoint focuses on the rerelease of the Star Wars Radio Drama from Highbridge Audio, and looks at the new Topps trading card set based on the Radio Drama. Then Marjorie and Arnie talk to Topps sketch card artist Christian Slade about his work on the cards, as well as his new prints coming from Acme Archives on Dec 15th!
With a report from this weekend’s Toy Man Toy Show, a new sixth-scale Tauntaun, Imperial Probe Drones, and more, it’s all on this Star Wars Action News podcast!
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN411.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
Up for Order: Sideshow Premium Format Deadpool – X-Force Edition
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!
New Podcast: Episode 410: Black Friday Deals and 2013 Holiday Gift Guide
Black Friday isn’t what it used to be…it’s not even Friday any more! With sales having started Thanksgiving Day and some stretching through the weekend and even to “Cyber Monday” bargain shoppers now have almost a full week of savings. Stay on target for Star Wars bargains with this episode of Star Wars Action News! Marjorie and Arnie run down the stores with Star Wars items on sale to let you know which bargains are worth fighting the crowds, and which you can sleep through!
Also on this episode is the annual Star Wars Action News holiday gift guide! With gift ideas for men, women, and children, and in all price ranges, listen to find what to get the Star Wars collector who seems to already have everything! The entire Star Wars Action News team has contributed ideas. From books to lightsabers, toys to statues, jewelry to original art, it’s all here in today’s podcast! Plus listen to win a set of Star Wars Radio Drama CD-sets from Star Wars Action news and Highbridge Audio!
And don’t forget to sign up for the Star Wars Action Sithmas Gift Exchange! Sign-ups end December 2nd. Get and give some Star Wars joy this season by joining this Secret Santa gift exchange! All the details are at http://www.swactionnews.com/Sithmas/
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN410.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 409: The Death Star Plans are NOT in the main computer–they’re in this book!
Star Wars Episode VII draws nearer! We now have a firm release date. On December 18, 2015 fans will finally see a cinematic vision of Star Wars post-Return of the Jedi, 32 years after Episode VI’s release. On this week’s Star Wars Action News podcast your hosts Marjorie and Arnie discuss this news and anticipate a holiday season full of Star Wars goodness!
And the 2013 holiday season is upon us! From new Christmas ornaments in stores to gift sets, decorations, and more, the hosts run down all the new Star Wars holiday items and where you can get them cheapest!
Also this week, Arnie talks with prolific Star Wars Author Ryder Windham about his newest book, the Death Star Owner’s Tehnical Manual. Ryder discusses his first Star Wars projects with Dark Horse and how he has come to write so many Star Wars junior novels and reference books.
With Steve providing a new UK report, Johnathan reviewing the K-Mart Exclusive Endor packs and Scanning Crew sets, a review of the new, more affordable, Star Wars Frames books, and so much more, it’s all in this week’s super-sized edition of the Star Wars Action News podcast!
And don’t forget to join in the Star Wars Action News holiday Sithmas exchange! Give and get an extra Star Wars gift this season by joining in this “Secret Santa” exchange with another Star Wars Action News listener. Head to swactionnews.com to see all the details and the sign-up form.
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN409.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
New Podcast: Episode 408: Look My Head Look So Big To Young Eyes?
New Hasbro product is hitting fast. Exclusives are shipping from Amazon, as well as showing up on store shelves at Toys R Us and KMart. Also from Hasbro Black Series Wave 2, both 6-inch and 3.75-inch, are shipping from online retailers. On this week’s Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie look at some of the new 6-inch figures, Slave Leia and Greedo, and run down the exclusives.
Also this past week came the eBook editions of J.W. Rinzler’s Making of Star Wars books. Enhanced with more photos and multimedia content, listen to find out if the new features make this worth a purchase, or re-purchase if you already own the hardcover editions.
With cranially-enhanced holiday decorations, a report from the Winter London Film & Comic Con, and more, it’s all on this episode of the Star Wars Action News podcast!
Listen Now: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN408.MP3
Category: Movies & Television
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