toyhaven

“You must be truly desperate to come to me for help.” A new powerful enemy has appeared to destroy the nine realms, and Thor is forced to seek assistance from Loki in order to save us all in Thor: The Dark World, but can the God of Mischief be truly trusted?

Regardless of which side Loki is on, he has been extremely popular with fans of the Marvel Universe! Even Mr. Tom Hiddleston himself was very happy to see Hot Toys’ The Avengers: 1/6th scale Loki Collectible Figure which was released last year.

To continue the popularity of everyone’s favorite trickster, Hot Toys is excited to present the new 1/6th scale Loki Collectible Figure from Thor: The Dark World. The movie-accurate collectible is specially crafted based on the image of Tom Hiddleston as Loki in the movie, featuring the newly developed head sculpt, highly-detailed costume, weapon and accessories.

The 1/6th scale Loki Collectible Figure specially features: Authentic and detailed fully realized likeness of Tom Hiddleston as Loki in Thor: The Dark World. Movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture plus Black hair sculpture. Body with over 30 points of articulations. Approximately 32 cm tall. Six (6) pieces of interchangeable palms including: One (1) pair of partially clenched palms, One (1) pair of relaxed palms, One (1) right palm for holding dagger, One (1) left open palm. Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume: One (1) black long vest with leather-like materials and bronze-colored armor, One (1) long-sleeve leather-like black and green long coat with bronze-colored armor and strap, One (1) leather-like pants with patterns, One (1) pair of black boots

Weapon: One (1) dagger

Accessories: One (1) pair of handcuffs with chains, One (1) pair of legcuffs with chains, One (1) neck collar with chains. Figure stand with Loki nameplate and the movie logo

Special Version – Bonus Accessory (for selected markets only): One (1) 1/6th scale Aether

Artists: Head Sculpted by Yulli, Head Painted by JC. Hong, Head Art Directed by JC. Hong

Release date: Q2-Q3, 2014

**Collectible Figure - Prototype shown, final product may be slightly different
**Aether - Prototype shown is not final, pending licensor approval
**Product details could be subjected to change without further notice

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Here's the VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch action figure fully kitted out, assembled with all his gear and accessories, all ready to take on the bad guys and avenge the deaths of his family. After all, this VTS Revenger figure is based on the Marvel comics character Frank Castle, a vigilante who employs murder, kidnapping, extortion, coercion, threats of violence, and torture in his war on crime. Driven by the deaths of his wife and two children, who were killed by the mob during a shootout in New York City's Central Park, the Punisher wages a one-man war on the mob and all criminals in general by using all manner of conventional war weaponry.

The Punisher's brutal nature and willingness to kill made him a novel character in mainstream American comic books in 1974. By the late 1980s, he was part of a wave of psychologically troubled antiheroes and was featured in several monthly publications, including The Punisher War Journal, The Punisher War Zone, and The Punisher Armory. Despite his violent actions and dark nature, the Punisher has enjoyed some mainstream success (although toned down) on television, making guest appearances on Spider-Man: The Animated Series and even The Super Hero Squad Show. In feature films, Dolph Lundgren portrayed the Punisher in 1989, as did Thomas Jane in 2004, and Ray Stevenson in 2008.

This 1/6 scale Revenger figure is definitely inspired by Ray Stevenson's portrayal of the Frank Castle character from the 2008 "Punisher war Zone" movie, from the head sculpt which bears a striking resemblance to actor Ray Stevenson to his getup / outfit (most significantly the all important body armor with the skull print. The skull is the Punisher's signature, just as the shield is Captain America's) including the weapons he has on him. Scroll down to see the rest of the pictures :)

VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch figure (Ray Stevenson as Frank Castle / The Punisher) comes dressed in his black long sleeve sweater, combat pants, BDU belt and black combat boots. Other items included are: extra palm / hand for gripping his knife as well as a pair of tactical gloves (fingerless), bendy hands x 2, watch, body armor, combat belt, AR-15 magazine holster, grenade pouch x 2, fragmentation grenade x 2, CQC holster with drop leg platform, CQC holster with molle platform, CQC pistol magazine holster x 2, AR15 carbine with reflex sight, suppressor, grenade launcher, rail cover x 2, AR-15 mag 1 + 1, 40mm grenade x 3, tactical rifle sling, Beretta 92 pistol x 2, pistol magazine x 2, tactical mod revolver with micro red dot scope and weapon light with laser, revolver rounds x 6, revolver drop leg holster, combat knife with scabbard.

In my haste to assemble the 1/6 scale custom M4A1-type carbine equipped with KAC Quad-rails, a C-More red dot optic sight, an Advanced Armament Corp M4-2000 suppressor, and a short-barreled AG36 grenade launcher, I have attached the sight on backwards and didn't realize it until I've posted these pictures. My bad :(

NEXT: Check out pictures of this VTS Revenger figure with his 1/6 scale Smith & Wesson Model 500 Performance Center Magnum revolver with a Knight's Armament RIS setup, a tactical flashlight, a laser, and a black suppressor installed.

Related posts:
January 17, 2011 – Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" Figure REVIEWs HERE and HERE
December 7, 2011 – Reviews of Art Figures AF-005 Avenger AKA Thomas Jane Punisher posted in my toy blog HERE and HERE
December 10, 2011 – Art Figures 1/6 Punisher Figures spell Double Trouble (pictures HERE)

"Gear up! It's time!"

Celebrating the much-anticipated release of Marvel's film Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Sideshow is proud to present the Captain America Premium Format Figure. With a stunning likeness of award-winning actor Chris Evans, we've captured every aspect of super patriot Steve Rogers as he prepares to battle the Soviet agent known as the Winter Soldier. Featuring a screen-accurate sculpted costume, and switch-out classic and stealth shields, the Captain America Premium Format Figure is an outstanding addition to any Marvel collection.

Check out the preview HERE
There's also the Sideshow Collectibles Captain America page HERE where you can find all the products related to Captain America

ZCWO has already previewed a version of this character "Tong" in full PTU uniform with gear and accessories HERE. The 12-inch figure is based on the 2003 Hong Kong crime thriller film "PTU: Police Tactical Unit" with Hong Kong actor Lam Suet (Chinese: 林雪) playing the role of an Organised Crime and Triad Bureau Sergeant Lo Sa who loses his service revolver after he was assaulted by a group of triad members. This is a variant version based on the post scuffle appearance after he was roughed up by the thugs and losing his revolver! It is a collaboration figure between ZCWO and Milk Cargo (now that's what I call "milking it" LOL) and it's supposed to be a limited edition collectible figure.

It's nice to see an Asian head sculpt once in a while and this one even comes with a "fat" body suit to complete the look. You have to be a big fan of the character or the movie to even want to consider this and obviously this limited edition figure is targeted at very small market because i don't know of many people / collectors who would be eager to grab their hands on this fat boy. Scroll down to see the rest of the pictures.

This would make a good companion piece to the earlier released ZCWO and Iminime 1/6 scale PTU Tactical Unit Sergeant (Sam) 12-inch figure (previewed earlier HERE)

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Here are pictures taken of the VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch action figure armed with the 1/6 scale Smith & Wesson Model 500 Performance Center Magnum revolver with a Knight's Armament RIS setup, a tactical flashlight, a laser, and a black suppressor installed. I have already covered this VTS Toys Revenger figure's box packaging and contents HERE, followed by pictures of the fully kitted out figure HERE but because he has quite a number of weapons included, I just had to post pictures of him with the specially customized one-of-a-kind 1/6 scale S&W revolver.

If I haven't already said how great this figure is, let me reiterate again: "This is a DAM fine figure!" Pardon the pun but since DAM Toys is also VTS Toys, you can be assured of quality and highly detailed gear and accessories which VTS doesn't disappoint, including movie accurate weapons. Art Figures had already released their version of this 1/6 scale Ray Stevenson Frank Castle Punisher War Zone 12-inch figure in 2011 (you can see my review and pictures HERE and HERE) but this VTS Revenger figure seems to fare better in terms of gear, accessories and weapons. Scroll down to see the pictures and you can be the judge :)

VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch figure (Ray Stevenson as Frank Castle / The Punisher) comes dressed in black long sleeve sweater, combat pants, BDU belt and black combat boots. Other items included are: extra palm / hand for gripping his knife as well as a pair of tactical gloves (fingerless), bendy hands x 2, watch, body armor, combat belt, AR-15 magazine holster, grenade pouch x 2, fragmentation grenade x 2, CQC holster with drop leg platform, CQC holster with molle platform, CQC pistol magazine holster x 2, AR15 carbine with reflex sight, suppressor, grenade launcher, rail cover x 2, AR-15 mag 1 + 1, 40mm grenade x 3, tactical rifle sling, Beretta 92 pistol x 2, pistol magazine x 2, tactical mod revolver with micro red dot scope and weapon light with laser, revolver rounds x 6, revolver drop leg holster, combat knife with scabbard. Phew! that is quite a lot of stuff.

The 1/6 scale Smith & Wesson Model 500 revolver can be taken apart into two parts by removing the retaining pin. The revolver hammer can also be pulled back. The revolver cylinder is removable, as are the six bullets inside the chamber / cylinder. Close-up pictures posted HERE.

Here's the movie promotional poster image of Ray Stevenson as Frank Castle from The Punisher War Zone movie

And here's the VTS 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch figure. A very close match if you ask me.

NEXT: Comparison pictures of VTS 1/6 scale The Revenger side-by-side with Art Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" 12-inch Figure. It's all in the details.

Related posts:
January 17, 2011 – Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" Figure REVIEWs HERE and HERE
December 7, 2011 – Reviews of Art Figures AF-005 Avenger AKA Thomas Jane Punisher posted in my toy blog HERE and HERE
December 10, 2011 – Art Figures 1/6 Punisher Figures spell Double Trouble (pictures HERE)

This was originally promoted as the Hot Toys 1/6 scale "Iron Man 3" Tony Stark (Mandarin Mansion Assault Version) 12-inch figure - see the preview pictures HERE - but has since been renamed "Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic" figure.

In the 2013 superhero film featuring the Marvel Comics character Iron Man, Tony Stark's home is completely destroyed by the Mandarin's forces and he escapes to rural Tennessee in the Iron Man Mark 42 armor suit, following a flight plan from his investigation into the Mandarin. Stark's experimental armor lacks sufficient power to return to California, and the world believes him dead. Tony Stark has to depend on his wits instead of his armor suits to overcome his shortcomings (including post traumatic stress disorder caused by the events of "The Avengers" where he had a near-death experience) and becomes an American James Bond type figure when he assaults the Mandarin Mansion in a bid to stop the terrorist.

This is the recently released Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure with authentic and detailed fully realized likeness of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark in the Iron Man 3 movie, including Battle damaged head sculpt with movie-accurate facial features with detailed beard, wrinkles and skin texture. What's more? It features the Hot Toys Advanced body (which stands approximately 30 cm tall) with over 30 points of articulation including LED light on chest (battery operated). Scroll down to see the pictures and part 1 review of this very well made figure.

Hot Toys box packaging is pretty standard nowadays. It consists of a simple shoe-box design. Lift up the lid and it opens to reveal the contents / items inside. In this case, there's a card with the words "I am Iron Man"covering the contents.

Hot Toys 1/6 scale Tony Stark is in his tray with all his accessories around him. This particular Hot Toys movie masterpiece has a lot of goodies that come with him and they are all very cool. More of them in the next post.

But first, it's all about the figure!

This is no ordinary 12-inch figure. The preview photos / pictures don't begin to show what lies beneath all that 1/6 scale fabric clothes he has on.

Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure's costume / outfit consists of: One (1) white vest, One (1) pair of dark blue jeans, One (1) pair of white sneakers, One (1) black zip hoodie

Remove the black hoodie and white vest (T-shirt) and you get to see how this one-of-a-kind Hot Toys TrueType Advanced body (which stands approximately 30 cm tall with over 30 points of articulation) with battery operated LED light on chest looks like. How many figures will have a light-up chest except Tony Stark?

Here's a close-up view of the back with the battery compartment and light switch. Remember my HOT toy collecting tip number 1? REMOVE ALL BATTERIES!!! See my toy blog post HERE for the full details.

Here's how Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure looks topless without his black hoodie and white vest from the front. The arc reactor is implanted in his chest.

Lights ON! The LED light is very BRIGHT when it is switched on.

Close-up view of the Hot Toys 1/6 scale lighted up arc reactor on Tony Stark's chest

Close-up of the arc reactor with LED light switched off.

Close-up views of Tony Stark's 1/6 scale jeans

Close-up pictures of the 1/6 scale white and gray sneakers

Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure with his white AIM (Advanced Idea Mechanics) vest

The LED light-up chest (arc reactor) is very BRIGHT when it is switched on and shines through the vest.

Scroll down to see the close-up pictures of the Hot Toys 1/6 scale Battle damaged head sculpt of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark as seen in the Iron Man 3 movie, with movie-accurate facial features including detailed beard, wrinkles and skin texture. Hot Toys has done a top notch job once again with the sculpting and paint job to deliver a masterpiece :)

NEXT: All the gear and accessories that come with this Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure (Mandarin Mansion Assault Version)

As the Light Goes Out is a 2014 Hong Kong-Chinese disaster film directed by Derek Kwok, and ENTERBAY is proud to present the museum-like high end collectible figurines from this movie. There will be 3 characters in total from this movie collection, but third one will not be released until Q2 2014, and we are now introducing the first two characters: Sam (starring Nicolas Tse) Senior Station Officer figurine and Chiu (starring Shawn Yue) Station Officer figurine

Each figurine will features the following items: Two head sculpts design, one is the museum-like portrayal of the actor; and the other head sculpt is with a firefighter mask. There is an LED installed inside the mask in order re-create the atmosphere from the movie scene. The actor head sculpts are hand-painted with newly developed "multi layer" paint application.

Also includes the Newly developed ATLGO action body with 40 points of articulation, the height is around 12 inches tall. Scroll down to see all the preview / prototype pictures.

This is Enterbay "As The Light Goes Out" 1/6 scale Chiu (Shawn Yue) Station Officer Figurine. Each 1/6 scale Hong Kong Firefighter Figure is wearing the ENTERBAY designed EB Fire Service Firefighter suit. This protective suit is designed according to the actual fireman bunker gear, including the complete two-piece fire suit (jacket and pants), protective headgear and undergarment.

The two-piece fire suit was designed according to the actual fireman suit, decorated with pockets, zipper, reflective and fluorescent safety belt, extreme attention to accurate and details.

3 (three) pairs of interchangeable hands, including two pairs with fireman gloves and a pair of natural hands.

Also included: 1 (One) firefighter mask, 1 (One) EB Fire Service Firefighter helmet, 1 (One) flashlight with lanyard, 1 (One) metal pick head axe, 1 (One) metal made compressed air bottle (oxygen tank) with air breathing apparatus, A safety rope, A pair of firefighter boots, A FS-201 figurine stand

The other figure is the Enterbay "As The Light Goes Out" 1/6 scale Sam (Nicholas Tse) Senior Station Officer Figurine

The oxygen tank is wrapped in a special backpack, backpack is framed with shoulder strap, hand strap, adjustable ropes, nylon straps and metal buckles, etc., extreme attention to accurate and details.

You can Pre-order these Enterbay 1/6 scale Hong Kong Firefighter 12-inch figures (Nicholas Tse & Shawn Yue) from TFH (The Falcon's Hangar) HERE

Related posts:
September 11, 2008 – Modern American Firefighter by Hot Toys (pictures HERE)
March 29, 2011 – Where there's smoke, there's FIRE! Presenting 1:6 scale 12-inch Firefighter figures featured in my toy blog HERE
May 8, 2012 – Review II: Dragon Models (DML) 1/6th scale Jay Chou as Wan Fei (萬飛) 12-inch action figure (pictures HERE)
May 12, 2012 – Review: Dragon Models Limited (DML) 1/6th Man Yeung 萬陽 (Nicholas Tse) 12-inch figure
posted HERE

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In the 2013 superhero film "Iron Man 3", after discovering where the Mandarin is holding out (Stark traces the Mandarin to Miami), Tony infiltrates his headquarters using improvised weapons. Earlier when Harley, a precocious 10-year-old boy whose garage Tony Stark uses to stash his Mark 42 armor suit, asks who he is, Tony replies: The Mechanic.

And this is my second part review of Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure, showcasing all the wonderful accessories that come with this Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series figure after having shown how awesome the new Hot Toys TrueType Advanced body (which stands approximately 30 cm tall with over 30 points of articulation) with battery operated LED light on chest (Tony Stark's chest arc reactor) is in the previous post HERE.

Here's the Hot Toys 1/6 scale Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark 12-inch figure as seen in the Iron Man 3 movie wearing the Augmented-cognition headset with holographic effects. With this headset, Tony Stark can remotely control and operate the Iron Man Mark 42 from afar. Check out all the other 1/6 scale goodies by scrolling down. I posted quite a lot of pictures of them below :)

As with most of Hot Toys products, there's always the all important Instruction Sheet which you should read before doing anything else so that nothing gets damaged unintentionally and lead to some heartache and tears later haha This particular figure comes with quite a bit of instructions, somewhat more than the usual so take your time perusing.

At the top right hand corner of the tray which holds all the parts you will see these three items. From top to bottom: holographic display, augmented-cognition headset (referred to also as "goggles" on the Instruction Sheet) and aviator sunglasses. Scroll down to see pictures of 12-inch Tony Stark the Mechanic wearing his 1/6 scale aviator sunglasses.

The sunglasses fit very nicely. The Instruction Sheet cautions against leaving the aviator sunglasses on the head for a prolonged period as it might cause the paint fading onto the head and staining it.

This unique and specially crafted battle damaged head sculpt of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark as seen in the Iron Man 3 movie with movie-accurate facial features such as detailed beard, wrinkles and skin texture is very well done and stunning although Tony Stark only looks like that towards the end of the assault on Mandarin mansion.

12-inch Tony Stark with 1/6 scale Augmented-Cognition Headset

12-inch Tony Stark wearing 1/6 scale Augmented-Cognition Headset with holographic effects - very NICE! I found it easier to put on the headset and then the holographic display over the headset than to assemble them together before putting it on Tony as mentioned in the Instruction Sheet.

Tony Stark's home-made weapons in 1/6 scale: one newspaper, one plumb bob, one multi-tool, one container with syringe inserted, One stun gun, One Christmas Tree ornament / ball (it explodes in the face of one of the guards) and one digital watch (as requested by Tony from Harley who gives Stark his sister's watch).

The digital watch comes with a sticker sheet for you to apply the sticker onto the watch face. Extra / spare stickers are included just in case. There's also a transparent screwdriver included (not 1/6 scale but for use if you need although it appears too big to be used to unscrew the battery covers).

Here's a picture of the Dora The Explorer Limited Edition LCD Watch. This is the model seen in the movie "Iron Man 3" which Hot Toys fail to produce, most likely due to licensing issues.

A 1/6 scale black sling backpack is included for putting all the accessories as stated in the Instruction Sheet.

Other 1/6 scale weapons: One customized nail gun, One submachine gun

Tony Stark is seen wielding a MAC-10 submachine gun fitted with a small barrel shroud that was taken off a thug. The magazine is removable.

Another close-up view of the modified nail gun

Also included: Interchangeable metallic gold and red painting on Mark XLII armor parts including: One (1) right forearm armor, One (1) left leg armor. Eight (8) interchangeable palms including: One (1) pair of palms for holding gun, One (1) left palm for holding weapons, One (1) gloved right palm with wire (used to render one of the thugs unconscious by placing it on his head and electricuting him), One (1) right armored palm with improved articulations, movable fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated), One (1) right armored repulsor palm.

There's also the standard 12-inch Figure stand with Tony Stark nameplate and the movie logo (not shown).

NEXT: Tony Stark the Mechanic fully kitted and ready to assault the Mandarin Mansion.

"I want you to tell all your friends about me... I'm Batman."

From Warner Bros. groundbreaking film, directed by Tim Burton, Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present the Michael Keaton 1989 Film Version Batman Premium Format(TM) Figure.

Beneath the vast estate of Wayne Manor, millionaire industrialist Bruce Wayne transforms into his crime-fighting alter ego, and descends an iron staircase inhabited by bats into the hidden sanctuary of the Batcave. Crafted in 1:4 scale, this dynamic sculpture captures actor Michael Keaton's quintessential portrayal of Batman, featuring a stunning portrait likeness, iconic screen-accurate costume with bat symbol, utility belt and fabric cape. Grapple gun at the ready, Gotham's only hope rests with the dark vigilante, as he prepares to dance with the Devil in the pale moonlight...

Sideshow Exclusive: Swap out right hand with Grapple Gun

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This is the Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch figure fully kitted and ready to assault the Mandarin Mansion. After reviewing the box packaging and the specially designed Hot Toys Advanced body (which stands approximately 30 cm tall) with over 30 points of articulation including LED light on chest (battery operated chest arc reactor) in the part 1 review HERE and all the wonderful 1/6 scale gear and accessories that come with this figure HERE, it's finally time to put both figure and accessories together for the complete look :)

Tony Stark may not have his Iron Man suit but he proves that he is still pretty much the superhero as he takes down the Mandarin all by himself in the 2013 movie "Iron Man 3". Relying on his courage and the desire to do the right thing and bring the Mandarin to justice, Stark conjures up a whole array of home-made weapons from parts and pieces bought from the local D.I.Y. store in preparation for his assault on the terrorist's fortress, guarded heavily by a bunch of armed thugs. Scroll down to see the rest of the pictures :)

I think the hood is a little small on the black zip hoodie. It should cover more of his head and cast a shadow over his face. As it is, you can still make out who is under the hood which defeats the purpose. Examples of nice 1/6 scale hoods: Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt in "Mission: Impossible IV – Ghost Protocol" (pictures HERE) and kitbashed Bruce Willis as David Dunn in "Unbreakable" (posted HERE). Or course, the Jedis knew a thing or two about hoods e.g Young Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars Episode III (reviewed HERE) and old Ben from Star Wars Episode IV posted HERE.

Tony uses a specially designed gloved right palm with wire to render one of the thugs unconscious by placing it on his head and electrocuting him with it. The modified nail gun held in his right hand was also an effective weapon.

All the goodies on his backpack / sling bag have already been covered in much detail previously HERE

The only thing not right is the head sculpt. Tony Stark only sustains these injuries after his assault and subsequent capture so this 1/6 scale battle damaged head sculpt of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark the Mechanic from Iron Man 3 by Hot Toys rightfully should be when he manages to free himself from his bonds and is fighting off the bad guys with some of his armor i.e. right forearm armor and left leg armor.

Close-up views of the gloved right palm with wire

1/6 scale child's digital watch and nail gun

Tony Stark's sling backpack of goodies :)

NEXT: Hot Toys Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic with his armor to fight off the bad guys

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Most likely my last and final post / review of the Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch limited edition collectible action figure. This is why I enjoy collecting 12-inch action figures more than statues and smaller sized plastic molded figures. Most statues are expensive (to me anyway), cast from stone and being statues, are stiff, rigid and non pose-able which means that one toy blog post will more or less cover it. This particular figure from Hot Toys took me four posts to cover all the different aspects before I am satisfied. That's because there are so many variations that can be had with this figure and the pose-ability adds another dynamic dimension to it, not to mention the newly developed and specially designed Hot Toys Advanced body (which stands approximately 30 cm tall) with over 30 points of articulation including LED light on chest (battery operated chest arc reactor) covered in my part 1 review HERE.

The thing with the smaller scale action figures is that most of them are cast and molded in plastic with all their costumes and gear molded as one-piece before cuts are made to their body parts to enable articulation. That loses the realistic appeal for me especially since 1/6 scale figures are clothed / outfitted in fabric costumes / uniforms or can be even clad in armor if required. Scroll down to check out the pictures of Hot Toys 1/6 scale Tony Stark the Mechanic clad in some of his Iron Man Mark 42 (XLII) armor.

After assaulting the Mandarin Mansion (see previous post) and finding out that the Mandarin is a creation of Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), who appropriated Maya's Extremis research as a cure for his own disability and expanded the program to include injured war veterans, Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.) is captured and taunted by Maya, who was working with Aldrich all along. Stark manages to escape by remotely summoning the Iron Man Mark 42 suit.

The Mark 42 (XLII), Prehensile Suit, is known for its special ability to fly in separate pieces and wrap itself around Tony's body, piece by piece through a "state-of-the-art" computer chip that was implanted in his forearms, which enables him to mentally communicate with his armor.

Here are close-up pictures of the right forearm armor with right armored palm that comes with improved articulation, movable fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated). Originally posted HERE.

Hot Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure also comes with left leg armor.

Here's 12-inch Tony Stark with his 1/6 scale right armored repulsor palm which also has the alernate wrist armor as well. These armor pieces are different from the armor suited Iron Man figures because the leg armor is hollow in the centre so that it can slip into his left leg with pants / jeans. The right forearm armor is connected to a right human elbow joint via magnets which connects to the upper arm.

Scroll down to see the close-up pictures of the light-up gauntlets / right armored repulsor palm

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When the Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" 1/6 scale Figure was first released, the quality caught a lot of people by surprise and many were left scrambling to get their hands on the 12-inch Ray Stevenson as Frank Castle the Punisher figure. Unfortunately, because the figure was produced based on pre-order numbers and not many people gave a thought of pre-ordering it, the production number was small and supply was limited when it came out. Thus the secondary market price of the Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" figure began to rise very quickly and it became a holy grail for many collectors.

Fast forward to the present and DAM Toys (under their other brand name VTS for Virtual ToyS) just released their version of the 1/6 scale Ray Stevenson as Frank Castle the Punisher figure from the 2008 "Punisher: War Zone" movie and BAM! they certainly knocked this one out of the ballpark. This recently released VTS The Revenger figure is way better than the previously released and highly sought after Art Figures SAVES Punisher figure but hey, that's just my humble opinion.

What better way to bring a point across than to show pictures of both VTS The Revenger 12-inch figure with Art Figures: SAVES "Punisher" figure standing side-by-side and let you see and decide for yourself how different each figure is and which one is better. By the way, from what I hear, VTS The Revenger figure is already selling fast and some shops are already sold out of this figure so don't wait too long to get yours. Scroll down to see all the pictures. Click on them for bigger and better views (especially the landscape oriented ones). Enjoy!

In the pictures below, Art Figures: SAVES "Punisher War Zone" 12-inch figure is on the left and VTS 1/6 scale The REvenger figure is on the right.

As I've mentioned before, VTS The Revenger 12-inch figure has all the movie accurate 1/6 scale weapons which is a big plus and the quality is really good too.

Click on the pictures for bigger and better views. You can see how the same set-up can be done so differently and I'm certainly liking the newer version by VTS a lot. The sentimental me still will not let go of the Art Figures SAVES figure either haha they look great together

Related posts:
January 17, 2011 – Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" Figure REVIEWs HERE and HERE
December 7, 2011 – Reviews of Art Figures AF-005 Avenger AKA Thomas Jane Punisher posted in my toy blog HERE and HERE
December 10, 2011 – Art Figures 1/6 Punisher Figures spell Double Trouble (pictures HERE)

Today is the last day of the Chinese Year of the Snake. Tomorrow will be a New Year of the Horse. What better way to end the year than with a BANG! After posting all the entries of the VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12-inch figure (reviewed HERE, HERE and HERE) with side-by-side comparison pictures of the VTS Revenger and Art Figures SAVES Punisher War Zone figure, how about a look at a FANTASTIC Punisher custom job by Punch Customs (website HERE) that will blow your mind away! It certainly blew mine. This is the Marvel Comics style Punisher interpreted and customized by the amazing people at Punch Customs. Go to their site and take a look at the stunning customs they have done! All pictures are copyright of Punch Customs and you can see more at their site.

You can check out all the pictures at their site HERE. Suffice to say, this is one heck of a figure and certainly worth a look.

http://www.punchcustoms.com/

Frank Castle, aka The Punisher, created by writer Gerry Conway and artists John Romita, Sr. and Ross Andru, with publisher Stan Lee providing the name, made his first appearance in Marvel Comics' The Amazing Spider-Man #129. The Punisher is a vigilante who employs murder, kidnapping, extortion, coercion, threats of violence, and torture in his war on crime. Driven by the deaths of his wife and two children, who were killed by the mob during a shootout in New York City's Central Park, the Punisher wages a one-man war on the mob and all criminals in general, by using all manner of conventional war weaponry. His family's killers were the first to be slain. A war veteran of the U.S. military, he is a master of martial arts, stealth tactics, guerrilla warfare, and a wide variety of weapons.

http://www.punchcustoms.com/

This figure features a custom stylized headsculpt by professional sculptor Hanouman, beautifully painted by Skiman's Workshop, a custom-made spandex shirt with classic skull emblem by master costume designer Tony Mei, a custom-made double shoulder holster by the very talented, Gustavo Bautista Ponce and a custom base decal by Corrose Designs. The figure also includes high-end gear from Hot Toys and Sideshow Collectibles.

http://www.punchcustoms.com/

Note: As with all Punch Customs figures, this is a one-of-a-kind figure.

Go to their site and take a look at the stunning customs they have done! All pictures are copyright of Punch Customs and you can see more at their site.

Related posts:
January 17, 2011 – Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" Figure REVIEWs HERE and HERE
December 7, 2011 – Reviews of Art Figures AF-005 Avenger AKA Thomas Jane Punisher posted in my toy blog HERE and HERE
December 10, 2011 – Art Figures 1/6 Punisher Figures spell Double Trouble (pictures HERE)

Happy Chinese New Year!

It's supposed to be the Year of the Horse and not the Monkey but I guess the guys at Very Cool and Coo Model didn't get the memo ;p They have decided to collaborate and release a 1/6 scale Monkey King figure in the second quarter of 2014 and chose to preview the figure now to get pre-orders. Used to be figures were released when the movie was released to generate sales but nowadays figures are PREVIEWED instead when the film is released and pre-orders are then taken. You don't get the figure until maybe when the DVD is released some six months or so down the road. That's what happened with the Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch limited edition collectible action figure (reviewed HERE). The figure only came out after the Iron Man 3 DVD was released.

The Monkey King is a Hong Kong-Chinese film directed by Cheang Pou-soi and starring Donnie Yen as the titular protagonist, Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. Yen also serves as the film's action director. The film is based on selected chapters of Wu Cheng'en's classical novel Journey to the West and will tell the story of how the Monkey King rebels against the Jade Emperor of Heaven.

From VERY COOL x COO MODEL comes this New Product: THE MONKEY KING IN 3D IMAX Movie Version Licensed Sixth Scale Monkey King Figure (Product Ref. No: 64001). Product Checklist: Vivid Head Sculpt, Clothes, Trousers, Short Robe, Carved Dragon-Head Shoulder Armor, Arm Guard, Carved Wrist Guard, Copper Ornaments, Carved Leather Belt, Waist Guard Amor, Full Set of Amor, Cloak, Pair of Carved Boots, Hands x 4, Hat Crown, Pheasant Feather x 2, Carved Golden Cudgel, Brand New VERY COOL MX02 True Type Body.

Pre-order Starting from: February 7, 2014
Product in Stocks: Q2, 2014

Related post:
February 3, 2009 – Sūn Wùkōng (孙悟空) Monkey King 12-inch figure by Medicom Toys posted HERE. Based on Shingo Katori's portrayal of Sūn Wùkōng in the 2007 version of Saiyūki (西遊記)

RoboCop is a 2014 American science fiction action film directed by José Padilha. It is a remake of the 1987 film of the same name and a reboot of the RoboCop film series, making it the fourth installment of the franchise. The film stars Joel Kinnaman in the title role.

When Alex Murphy - a loving husband, father and good cop gets critically injured in the line of duty, OmniCorp sees their chance for a part-man, part-robot police officer. OmniCorp envisions a RoboCop in every city and big profits for their shareholders, but there is still a noble man inside the machine pursuing justice.

From threezero:
Here is the promised photos of Robocop V1 model, which we will release this year. We are keen on making the figure with utmost care and attention to details and all the tiny nuances. Not every company shows early and WIP photos, but we are excited to show you guys, what we are working on.

The movie was okay for me. I liked the original better but it's always nice to see a fresh take on the subject. The more the merrier, right? Personally, I prefer version 1 as it looks closer to the original except that this time around, the suit's sleeker. Scroll down to see all the pictures including the all black Version 3 RoboCop.

These were the initial prototype pictures / images

Prepare to meet proud creation of OmniCorp: RoboCop V3! On active duty in every town, protecting citizens from crime and making each street and dark alley safe. Criminals run away or turn themselves in, when they hear the sirens!

Related posts:
June 12, 2013 – Just some RoboCop and RoboCop movie-related figures on display, including ED-209 & RoboCain HERE
March 28, 2009 – Kotobukiya 1987 RoboCop mini-figure HERE
March 20, 2009 – Hot Toys 1987 RoboCop (The First) posted in my toy blog HERE
April 26, 2008 – RoboCop 3 (1993) by Hot Toys, released in 2007 (review and pictures HERE and HERE

These super 70's and 80's Sci-Fi Poster series (size: 16 x 24 inches) are digitally illustrated posters designed by Boiling Point Creative Group and printed on high quality matte archival stock. They are available on Boiling Point Creative Group website HERE. Feel free to check them out :)

These posters really bring back a lot of memories and nostalgia. I remember watching most of them on TV (except for The Black Hole which was a movie. And we never got Flash Gordon over here in Singapore) as a child and these shows really appealed to me and stoked the sci-fi-ness in me haha. Scroll down to see the rest of the posters (there are a total of six in the series).

Related posts:
February 23, 2008: Space 1999 - Eagle Transporter 1/72 scale die-cast model with high quality details by (Product Enterprise in the UK) and Aoshima version in Japan Posted HERE
February 24, 2008 – Product Enterprise Deluxe Eagle Gift Set: Space 1999 - Laboratory Eagle with Booster Rockets (pictures HERE)
February 24, 2008 – Space 1999 - Group Shots posted in my toy blog HERE

I had reviewed the "Star Wars: A Galactic Pop-up Adventure" book with light-up lightsaber earlier HERE and enjoyed the book quite a bit, not for the content because most of us Star Wars fans would already know most of the facts inside the book but for the pop-up effects which were astounding and truly a feat of paper engineering :)

This "Star Wars: A Pop-up Guide to the Galaxy" book is actually the first Star Wars Pop-up book by Matthew Reinhart, renowned paper engineer and bona fide STARS WARS aficionado. "Star Wars: A Pop-up Guide to the Galaxy" book was a NEW YORK TIMES bestseller and covers Star Wars episodes IV to VI, which to many of us older folks, was the better trilogy of the two because it was the classic that spawned the prequel.

The Pop-up book is divided into six sections. Each section covers a particular subject or topic and within the section are sub-topics. What's most interesting is that most of the pop-ups are hidden under the sub-topic sections via flaps and as you uncover each sub-topic, a pop-up appears, catching you by surprise with how it's cleverly engineered to be folded flat and hidden from view until you lift the flap. Ingenious is the word and so much FUN haha It brings joy to reading LOL. Scroll down to see the rest of the pictures.

I like the cover design of this "Star Wars: A Pop-up Guide to the Galaxy" book more than the later version because the latter has Yoda on the cover and Yoda is not as intimidating and foreboding as Darth Vader, third greatest movie villain in cinema history on "100 Years... 100 Heroes and Villains", behind Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates. At the back of the book is a slip of paper showing one of the pop-up pages (the last section) with "working" lightsabers that light-up, red light for Darth Vader and green light for Luke Skywalker. That's pretty CoOL, right?

The first section covers the Star Wars Galaxy and the worlds / planets that exist in them. The Battle of Hoth is the centerpiece with the AT-AT looming and the rebels trying their utmost best to fight the Imperial forces off (as seen in Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back). It even has Luke Skywalker about to climb up to the Imperial Walker's belly in an attempt yo bring the lumbering giant down.

Then there's Tattooine and the Death Star destroying Alderaan,

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

The speeder bike chase on Endor and more... You'll just have to get the book and enjoy it yourself ;p

The next section is titled "Citizens of the Galaxy" with mega predator Rancor taking center stage

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

Pop-up Chewbacca the Wookie, Wicket the Ewok, Bib Fortuna the Twi'lek, Greedo the Rodian...

Jawas, Wampa, Tuantuan and Space vermin Mynock complete the section.

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

Oops! Almost left out the Bantha

The third section is all about space ships / starships with the Millennium Falcon front and center but also has a pop-up of a Imperial Scout Walker AT-ST (top left)

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

The Fourth section has a complete and full pop-up Mos Eisley cantina with all the shady characters you couldn't have thought of

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

Including one Corellian Smuggler named Han Solo...

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

who gets carbonized by Boba Fett the Bounty Hunter. Lando Calrissian is also in the picture.

The fifth section is all about the Rebel Alliance against the Empire

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

There's Admiral Ackbar and Princess Leia Organa

And the rebel droids C-3PO and R2-D2

Against the Imperial troops

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

Last but not least, there's the Power of the Force section! It started with the galaxy and ends with the Force. Anakin Skywalker's face is first revealed before being enclosed by the Darth Vader mask and helmet

Darth Vader's lighsaber lights up in red...

while Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker's lightsaber lights up in green

Jedi master Yoda raises the X-wing fighter

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

I didn't cover everything that's in the book but you get the picture :) IMHO This "STAR WARS: A POP-UP GUIDE TO THE GALAXY" and the previously reviewed "Star Wars: A Galactic Pop-up Adventure" book (see my earlier post HERE) are MUST-HAVEs for all Star Wars fans, young and old. The book is full of hidden surprises and the pop-up effects are simply amazing and mind boggling.

Other notable books I have covered in my toy blog include:
"The Dark Knight Manual: Tools, Weapons, Vehicles and Documents from the Batcave" - posted HERE

and

"X-Men: The Characters and Their Universe by Michael Mallory", a HUGE (28 cm or 11 inches wide x 36 cm or 14.25 inches high x 3 cm or 1.25 inches thick), heavy, hardcover bound and crammed full of interesting facts (288 pages in all) about the X-Men - posted HERE

plus Hobby Japan Mil-FIG Customized 12-inch Military Action Figures book shown HERE

Kotobukiya presents the next Marvel 1/10 scale ARTFX+ statue in their Avengers Now line: Hawkeye. Kotobukiya based this figure of Hawkeye on his appearance in his current Marvel NOW! comic. Caught in mid-draw as he prepares to bring an enemy down, Hawkeye is tightly coiled in anticipation. This iconic character certainly looks different from his first appearance in the comics (check out the Famous Covers Hawkeye posted in my toy blog HERE).

Hawkeye was introduced as a reluctant villain in Tales of Suspense #57 (September 1964). After two more appearances as a villain in Tales of Suspense #60 and #64 (December 1964 and April 1965), Hawkeye joined the ranks of the Avengers in Avengers Vol.1 #16 (May 1965). He has been a prominent member of the team ever since. Scroll down to see the pictures of this Kotobukiya Marvel NOW! version of Hawkeye which looks much closer to the movie version.

Avengers assemble! Who would you enlist from the Marvel Universe to create the ultimate team?

Here's a picture of all the members of the Marvel Now Avengers

Click on the picture for a BIGGER and BETTER view

Hawkeye is portrayed by Jeremy Renner in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a shared fictional universe that is the setting of films produced by Marvel Studios.

Related posts:
May 26, 2008 – Hawkeye by Toy Biz (pictures HERE)
October 20, 2011 – Avengers Assemble! The ToyBiz Famous Covers 9-inch version featured HERE
March 31, 2012 – Preview Hot Toys The Avengers: 1/6 Hawkeye Limited Edition 12-inch Collectible Figure HERE
July 9, 2013 – Kitbash 1/6 scale Jeremy Renner as S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Clint "Hawkeye" Barton in The Avengers (pictures HERE)
November 12, 2013 – Review: Marvel Comics Hawkeye 1/6th scale Costume and Equipment set for Captain Action posted HERE

How cute is this?

Based on the "Darth Vader and Son" book by cartoonist Jeffrey Brown, this adorable maquette shows a scene from an alternate "Star Wars" in which the Dark Lord of the Sith is an active father, with li'l Luke very proudly presenting Dad Vader with a Rebel Alliance-pattern tie! Awkward... This charming display stands about 23.5cm tall, and a base is included. It's the perfect gift for anyone who grew up with "Star Wars," and who's maybe even helping someone else grow up with it too!

Gentle Giant has partnered with Chronicle Books to put together something pretty special just in time for Father’s Day. The artisans at Gentle Giant Studios have captured this hilarious and sweet comic as re-imagining, Darth Vader as a dad like any other-except with all the baggage of being the Dark Lord of the Sith. Traditionally sculpted by the Artisans at Gentle Giant Studios, no detail has been overlooked.

Based on the "Vader's Little Princess" book by cartoonist Jeffrey Brown, this adorable maquette shows a scene from an alternate "Star Wars" in which the Dark Lord of the Sith is an active father with a handful of a daughter! Looks like li'l Leia's found the perfect material to practice cutting out Valentine hearts...! This delightful display stands about 23.5cm tall, and a base is included. This would be the perfect gift for anyone who grew up with "Star Wars," and who's maybe introducing it to a new generation of fans!

Each maquette is a numbered cold-cast Polystone collectible featuring a bottom stamp with a matching certificate of authenticity. Comes with an exclusive edition of Darth Vader and Son book or Darth Vader’s Little Princess book

16-page signature with the original black & white concept sketches from Jeffrey Brown! These sketches have not been released to the public until now, and are exclusive to each boxed set.

A new full color illustration from Jeffrey Brown printed on board and packaged in a vellum sleeve. The book cover and spine will be printed with color foil stamps and spot gloss varnish. Each set will cost $150 and will be released by Father’s Day.

Related posts:
April 1, 2008 – 14-inch Darth Vader confronts Luke Skywalker HERE
May 15, 2011 – F is also for Father and Son Lightsaber Duel from "Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back" (pictures HERE)
June 17, 2012 – Lim lau peh or "Who's your daddy?" i.e. Happy Father's Day to all toy collectors who are dads (posted HERE)

At the climax of Iron Man 2, Ivan Vanko appeared in his new Whiplash Mark II armor and proved to be a formidable foe for both Tony Stark and Colonel James Rhodes. The Whiplash Mark II’s incredible mechanical design has left a strong impression for Iron Man fans and since the appearance of collectible figure’s prototype at various Hot Toys exhibitions, fans have been longing for the official reveal of this amazing armor.

Now we are very excited to present this eagerly awaited 1/6th scale Whiplash Mark II Collectible Figure. It will also be the newest addition to our MMS Diecast Series which the collectible figures are made of diecast material, realistically designed to look more like Whiplash Mark II as he appears in the movie. The MMS Diecast Series will take fans to the next level of authenticity, focusing on the materials, fine details and engineering of the collectible figure.

The movie-accurate collectible is specially crafted based on the image of Mickey Rourke as Whiplash Mark II in the movie featuring a helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Mickey Rourke, an interchangeable helmeted head with LED light-up eyes, a magnetic mask, highly detailed mechanical design, metallic black painted full body armor with distressed effect, interchangeable battle damaged chest armor, pair of whips with real-like flashes and light-up function, and a specially sculpted diorama figure base.

The 1/6th scale Whiplash Mark II Collectible Figure’s special features: Helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Mickey Rourke as Whiplash Mark II in Iron Man 2, Movie-accurate facial expression, wrinkles and beard. Helmeted head with LED light-up eyes (white light, battery operated). One (1) magnetic mask, Highly detailed metallic black painted full body armor with distressed effect, Contains die-cast material, Approximately 33 cm tall with Over 36 points of articulations. One (1) chest armor, One (1) interchangeable battle damaged chest armor, LED chest light (white light, battery operated), Articulations on waist armor to allow more flexible movement, One (1) pair of palms with articulated fingers. Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Weapons: One (1) pair of whips with real-like flashes and LED light-up function (white light, battery operated)

Accessory: Diorama figure base with stand

Release date: Q1-2, 2015

**Prototype shown, final product may be slightly different
**Battery included for collectible figure. Button cells are required

Preview Hot Toys Thor: The Dark World: 1/6th scale Loki 12.5-inch Ltd Edn Collectible Figure

VTS Toys 1/6 scale The Revenger 12" figure aka Ray Stevenson Punisher War Zone Review II

Check out Sideshow Collectibles Captain America - The Winter Soldier - Premium Format Figure

1/6 Fat Boy Slim? Nah! It's ZCWO 1/6 PTU Hong Kong Police Tactical Unit - Tong (casual version)

Review III: VTS 1/6 scale The Revenger (Ray Stevenson Punisher War Zone) 12-inch figure

Review 1: Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Ltd Edn action figure

Pre-order Enterbay 1/6 Hong Kong Firefighter 12-inch figures (Nicholas Tse & Shawn Yue)

Hot Toys 1/6 scale Iron Man 3: Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Ltd Edn action figure Review II

Preview Sideshow Collectibles 26.5-inch Michael Keaton 1989 Batman Premium Format Figure

Review III: 1/6 scale Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark the Mechanic from Iron Man 3 by Hot Toys

"Repulsor ON!" Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch figure from Iron Man 3 by Hot Toys - Review IV

Comparison pictures of VTS The Revenger 12-inch figure with Art Figures: SAVES "Punisher"

Check out Punch Customs 1/6 scale Punisher v4.0 Custom Figure - it'll blow your mind :)

Preview Very Cool x Coo Model 1/6 The Monkey King (Donnie Yen as Sun Wukong) 12-inch figure

Prototype images of ThreeZero 1/6 scale 2014 (Reboot) RoboCop V1 and V3 figures revealed

Beautiful Retro 70's and 80's Sci-Fi Poster Series by Boiling Point Creative brings back memories

Review "Star Wars: A Pop-up Guide to the Galaxy" book with dual light-up light sabers

Check out Kotobukiya Marvel Comics Avengers Now Hawkeye ARTFX+ 1/10 scale Statue

Preview Deluxe Maquette: "Darth Vader and Son"&"Vader's Little Princess" by Gentle Giant

Preview Hot Toys "Iron Man 2" 1/6th scale Whiplash Mark II 33cm tall Collectible Figure