TOYSREVIL REVIEWS

House Of Liu - Mei Mei and Di Di

2008-06-06T18:37:00.009+08:00

BUMRUSH Vinyl Figure by DynomightNYC

2008-04-20T16:23:00.009+08:00

This is "physically" the closest ima gonna get to the New York Comic Con, happening this exact moment in Jacob Jarvitz Center in NYC = with DynoMightNYC's NYCC-Exclusive BUMRUSH Vinyl Figure, cruising for a bruising down the streets of the Eastern Singapore! Along with his tag-team-buddy, the Regular Edition BUMRUSH and a "special guest bruiser" - looking to tear up my neighborhood! He'll haveta get past me first!

THE PACKAGING: A pretty handsome cardboard-box with matt and spiffy-shiny-silver print. The window-display out front is die-cut to the shape of the face, head and horns of the vinyl figure housed within and keeps everything else a mystery (no lurve for the manboobies, eh?). I'm not too sure if this will help grab attention to the product at a toy boutique/shop (unless of coz the figure is displayed outside of the box - duh) but the subtilty of the product display is commendable, IMHO. Although I am not sure if the theme of the box-design gels with the Bumrush-origins, or rather his "ethos", but that is a matter of personal opinion and taste, really :)

Front of box-graphics also shows Bumrush in a Suit (variant version to come?), with sides and back filled with info and the origins of Bumrush [peep my interview with co-creator John Battistini HERE for the Bumrush-lowdown]

INTERNAL LAYOUT: The box opens up to a clear-plastic moulded-tray that slides out and quite importantly, does not have wire-ties (and that's a darned good thing!) - pop the figure out and we're ready for some fun!

Although I have to admit, the figure looks nigh imposing and huge via images online, but in person, he's actually pretty handy (no, I'm not saying he's small, becoz he is not!) and is a great size for having fun with! (peep my video-review top-of-post to see how much fun I had LOL). I haveta say tis kudos to the design of the character, which provided his visual identity and appeal (to me). Credit goes to both co-creators John Battistini and Justin Rudy (collectively DynomightNYC) and for ESC-Toy for producing such a sweet figure based on their initial designs [PEEP]

But then again, he'd tower above other toys and and would make pretty much a bruiser you'd not want to meet down some alleyway or fighting-ring, innit?

NYCC-PLUG: The Black-body/Purple-highlight/Yellow-paperbag head colorway is the New York Comic-Con-Exclusive variant limited to 250-pieces @ a SRP of US$75-per - which can be found both at Dynomight NYC's Booth #960 or online eventually (if there's any left, of coz :p).

STABILITY: Figure stands perfect upright on a single point of base-contact, it's stumpy-legs. The outstretched big paws also could serve as base-anchors, but even raised it could still maintain balance = good job this.

ARTICULATION:
The swivel-waist and shoulder-joints are noticeably tight. but not super-tight, tight enough to hear that subtle vinyl-creak (but no grind) and not loose that they'll unhinged when swung (who swings their designer vinyls anyways., yeh?) and I am suitably impressed with that aspect, so much so I'd not worry about having too much fun with them for fear of sustaining any breakage (NOT that I'd recommend anyone bringing their designer vinyls out of the display case and mucking about with them tho - but it sure was fun! LOL)

It would have been great if his wrists were articulated as well, for more playability and poses. I reckon a spare skeletal or decayed right-hand may be a bit out of the question (imagine if he brought a paper-bag that had his severed hand wrapped in newspaper, which prints of his defeat in a bout! muahahahahaha) *ahem*

... But then again, do watch out if you intend on man-handling them, as they are quite a hand-full to contend with, and I have my phantom-bruises to show for it! LOL

*ouchie*

*heh*
VARIANTS: In addition to the Black/Yellow/Purple NYCC-Exclusive colorway, there is the "Original" Regular Edition is in Yellow-body/Purple-strapped/Brown paperbag-head color, also limited to an edition of 250-pieces, at the same retail price. The 3rd variant is the DIY WHITE Edition - with currently no quantity, price nor availability details (to see public-print as yet).

DESIGN: I will not attempt to grapple nor deconstruct the concept of a horned-headed, chubby-fighter wearing a a paper-bag with a face, while fighting off his adoring public and fellow bruisers in Y-Fronts, and with a clawed lefty-paw and bloodied-stump for a righty - because there is no need to! It is just simple awesome, IMHO - a themed designed-creation that does not follow any existing big-eyed cutesy-pie or an indecipherable-artistic-expression of a notion (to be admired in dreams) - this figure, I suspect, would fit more comfortably with the conceptual-pantheons of Fighter Kaiju-figures, if not origins, while remain strongly Western-in-design, IMHO.

Standing 7-inches tall, with the choice of strong colors mystifyingly apt. The broken-heart tattoo decal on his right fore-arm tells of an intriguing-path, while the fresh-bloodied left-stump-where-hands-used-to-be would make for a very interesting fight-story to be told, i reckon. The disco-arm-straps is something else tho LOL. And the slight grin would either send fear down his opponents, or belies Bumrush's cheeky character and/or motivations.

Frankly, if I could personally garner such an array of thoughts and reactions from a figure such as Bumrush, it has proven itself by being beyond just a piece of pretty plastic" - into being a vinylization of a character. with such, tis kudos (again) for the design :)

VALUE/QUALITY: Sturdy to the touch, firm to the grip. This is not a fragile toy waiting to be broken in pieces, I surmise. The paint application and treatment of the figure is one of the best i've seen in a long while! Except for a uber-tiny lack of detail in the tighty-whites (would've been nice to see slightly different colored threads - but that would've been killer LOL) - the figure is sweet.

If you decide to procure this figure, you wmay not let it just sit on the display shelf looking all purdy and neat> You may be liable to bring it along with you to create all sorts of havoc and generally have FUN. And that to me is a stronger intangible value beyond secondary-market value-fluctuations, IMHO.

What would make this figure even worth collecting, is that there is/will be a series of other characters from Bumrush's world, to come - a sense on continuation of said series, rather than just a one-off-design and multiple colorways. (I'm voting for a Battle-Bloodied variant anyways! Toysrevil-exclusive perhaps? LOL)

STATS:
BUMRUSH vinyl figure is designed by DynomightNYC (www.dynomightnyc.com) and produced by ESC-Toy Ltd (www.esctoy.com).

Regular Edition and NYCC-Exclusive Editions are limited to 250-piees each design - worldwide - with a SRP of US$75-per.

"WHAT the hell is he?! Bumrush is tough, SUPER tough! He is not a toy! He gives what he gets. He hugs as hard as he hits. He could be your BFF, or he could make you wear your ass as a hat. The choice is entirely up to you."

"Dynomight is excited to announce its very first limited edition figure. It will be available in the spring of 2008. Only 250 figures will be produced for the first series. Each colorway will be very limited! Crafted by the talent of Esc-Toy, Bumrush stands about seven inches tall and is made of a solid well-crafted material. This little guy makes a great accent piece to any home decor. (Place him by your bed for added dream security. Bumrush loves to fight all the things that go bump in the night!)" [via]

Enterbay's Gang2 1/6th Figure

2008-01-08T01:11:00.000+08:00

THE PACKAGING: there is no doubt that the slip-case box wrapped in fabric is indeed a luxurious and handsome case. an epitome of Enterbay's intention for this product-line [read interview] with the embriodered pull-tab (to me) being the highlight of the packaging (as is the autograph out back by T.YORK, designer of G2 - which i reckon may not come with every other figure). altho dependent on how it is packed, the crisp edges may suffer dents or tiny dinks (mine did *sob*) and personally, it's a box you'd more likely want to keep, than just ripping into it and chucking it away like other "regular" 1/6th-figures boxes (but then again im a hoarder... :p)

to be frank, i had mixed feelings when the box-slipped open to reveal the contents. a sense of utter excitement (as all box-opening does, im sure) as well as trepidation of a figure i'd been blogging about (and only thru the sheer generosity of Enterbay's Bill Tjhang would i have the opportunity to have this figure, much less review it). and also a simple "fear", for i realized i've built-up an expectation of this figure, for which hampered my full enjoyment of it (but more on that later).

LAYOUT / CONTENT: simple but (again) classy layout of items revealed within a molded-tray finished in lush felt-texture. the fur jacket was a thrill to touch, and the bling-necklace on the side flickered in the light (drama, but true LOL). the matt-black envelope held a pull-put "comic" of G2's adventures [featured here prior] produced as an accordian-styled horizontal pull-out with sepia-toned illos - which frankly was something i was looking forward to, but could do without now - but nevertheless appreciate the effort for.

THE FIGURE: the entire figure itself (fully clothed) was heavy. heavier than any other 1/6th-figures i have held (with the near amount of clothes+gear) i like my figures "heavy", as it belies a possibility of being stable. and it does stand well. but alas without his shoes, he could not. i had to prop up the base of his feets with a toothpick for the dude to stand for my photo-taking. i know not if this be just for this figure or for others ... but then again, i know not of anyone who'd want to strip and display their figures, no? *heh*

other than that, this figure rawks for me, visually. standing with attitude aplomb and taking no shitte from anyone LOL

ARTICULATION: i suppose i blame myself for the heightened expectations for this figure. transplanting the notion of Enterbay's exceptional articulation for their 1/6 Bruce Lee series [Way of the Dragon + Game of Death et al] to this figure was a "mistake" on my part. it's quite ironic, when i first received this figure (months back, my bad), i'd wanted to do a review-photoshoot with my 1/6th Ferrari (ie. Barbies R/C-red Ferrari! LOL) and when i finally found the vehicle, i stripped the figure to discover it's lack of articulation (*bummerz*)

the figure consists of a grand total of 7 points-of-articulation. neck + shoulder/arm + higher-portion of wrists + higher-portion of ankles. and by "articulation", it is basic turn/swivel-action. i couldn't get the dude to sit down in the Ferrari (altho with his bulky+beefy build, he wouldn't have been able to fit in anyways LOL)

it's a tricky premise (which also led to a prolonged review). as a stand-alone statuette, the figure is da bomb - but as an "action figure" it totally falls short of my own expectations. on the other hand, to sacrifice the look and form of the figure (nekkid or otherwise LOL) with more articulation may not make a good-looking-figure make, IMHO. cater to the niche-collectors, or enhanced for the commercial masses? mayhap as a "luxury-figure" collectible-line, this figure can cater to the former.

i admit, i struggled with this assessment aspect of the figure. my disappointment for the lack of articulation weighed heavily, but the realization that to do so may disrupt the form (but would be a heck of a new form created, yes?), and in the end, what would make this figure different from any other 1/6th-figure out in the market? except for it's head-sculpt and clothes/accessories?

HEADSCULPT: sporting a more of a "caricature-ish" style/look rather than a hyper-realistic one, with a heightened sense of "danger" with the highbrows shading the blankness of the eyeballs. and tis the sculpt that defines the figure, in G2's instance, IMHO. (and after a fashion, i'd gotten over the Denis-Rodman-likeness :p)

a side-note for kitbashers: i did not attempt (well i did, just not hard enuff LOL) to remove the headsculpt (of coz hoping to transplant it unto an existing articulated body, but not everyone would rip off Hot Toy's Clubber Lang's head for it's muscled-body, ennit? - different skin-tone too) so im not too sure if this will work. (if it does for you, lemme know, yeh? kekekeke)

TATTOOS: the facial tattoo (notably at the chin-region) added to the character's attitude, IMHO. nicely done and not too obvious to take away his rugged looks (*cough*) altho the pencil-thin moustache (or is that a tattoo? :p) was a tad annoying, but that's just me. the body tattoos were quite commendable, most notably the back shoulders and especially the lower-back. any more detailed or even "darkened", it would've been "too fake", in my opinion.

THE BLING: dude has bling. from the singular ear's, to the fingers'. of course the most obvious would be he's necklace. very fine and intricate piece, i must say (which reminded me of Indian costume jewelry - similar technique, i suspect). adds to the total package, but with only the necklace visible when he has his fur on. (of coz including the ear's)

half of me wishes the figure could come with a gun, and a blinged-out one at that! but another part of me is thankful they didn't go by way of "media-profiling" and over-glamorized the negative aspects of the figures' "origins" (as it were) :p

one noticeable little design-change is in his shades - from the initial prototype with cool-ass-wrap-Bono-ish goodness, to the current framed-pedestrian accessory (but of coz im picky that way) - to me, it does affect the final package and "look", as it were ... altho frankly, it would've been uber-cool if his (plastic) shades came with bling as well. of coz that'll be OTT enough for this dude, yeh? but then again, with the current trend now, this dude be under-blinged, innit? *heh*

FORM: taller than your average 1/6th-G.I.Joe figure (which is slightly sorter than 12-inches anyways), he does look impressive as is (he has man-boobies too! LOL). and i reckon if he were to be fully articulated (ie. 25-30 points-of-articulation) then we would have missed the sculpt altogether. but yes, i understand (and have said so before) we may not be displaying him nekkid on a shelf too, IMHO.

would've been nice to have some "healed-bullet-wounds" or battle-scars, yeh? ... but then again, folks may look upon them as "production-defects" than intended sculpts, ennit? *heh*

notice also i had to prop him up standing with a toothpick (as mentioned earlier in the review)

SHOES: if you folks don't know me by now, im a real sucker for 1/6th-shoes. and frankly, tis hard to be "critical" about this pair, becoz i do not instantaneously recognize the make. that said, the form is pretty nifty, and details commendable, especially the sole! LOL - altho with as lush as this figure attempts to be, it would've been fabulous of the shoe had actual laces. it may not be too much to ask for faux-leather/pleather as well, but of coz im greedy :p ... to cap it off, i have no luv for the gold-color tho, 'nuff said.

CLOTHES: the fur coat is indeed the highlight of the figure, no doubt. with full-lined interiors (*gasp*) it is utter mack-daddy-pimpin'! the jeans were utilitarian to me. but to be fair, the tailoring is exceptional - notice the base of the pants and it's "perfect" length? like a "real" pair of pants should be (LOL). the sew-trims were very neat and well controlled, IMHO.

altho i do have an issue with the belt. the buckle is fine (would've been fab if it too was blinged LOL) but tis the soft leather that bugged me, more so becoz it folded under the tailoring of the jeans' loops. so much so in the end, it looks sloppy, rather than refined.

but again this is tricky, for in "real-life" the belt would too have buckled and you woulda seen the dude's briefs, ennit? .. but then again, this is not real-life, and the dude can't even bend down/over ... (i meant "articulation" ya pervs! LOL)

ACCESSORIES: LUGGAGE
this item is a single molded piece. the handle doesn't withdraw. the zips and buckles don't work. im not too sure, but maybe the wheels can turn? but again, i forgot (so maybe it doesn't, otherwise i may have remembered LOL) ... single molded piece.

PLUS:
(1) the entire package is as immaculate and classy as a 1/6th-figure could come in. (but then again, i've not had the honor nor opportunity to assess a Enterbay Bruce Lee-figure set :p) and is not your average off the toy-shelf sort of affair.

(2) in the endgame, the sculpt was more than decent and manages to provide it the attitude for which the character's "lifestyle" is based from. as a statuette, this figure is rawking, IMHO!

(3) fur coat.

MINUS:
(1) while i do not have violent reaction to this figure, neither am i lording over it. the lack of articulation bothers me quite a bit, and im still struggling with that even now (old "habits" die hard lah :p). for i realize he would only be "good" standing in that pose (and a bad-ass-pose that is too, mind!) and not for anything else. altho his clothes+gear would be good for kitbashing, IMHO - but that defeats the purpose of this figure, dunnit?

(2) a "working" luggage would have been uber-cool, IMHO. (but of coz im being too "parts-specific", innit? *heh*

WRAP-UP: G2 is not for your average 1/6th-collector, who demands multiple-articulation. G2 is a fashion-figure. with very limited articulation, but with a dollop of attitude.

bearing in mind this figure is catering to a very, very niche taste. neither mass-market-1/6, nor is it (directly) based on an existing artiste or character (which loses out on it's real-world fan-base). neither is it a "toy" (per se) nor "fad-collectible" in the sense of urban-slash-designer-figures (or even vinyls). at best, this is a statue that has minor articulation. and in that respect, this is a sweet piece of "Designer" 1/6th (even if only by sense of figure size). for the luxury-aspect of the figure, i feel fulfills it's initial intentions [read interview], and can only get better (i hope).

G2 is the first figure out of (hopefully) an entirely new family of figures, and mayhap with those figures, the image and vision for the world of G2; would be more complete, IMHO. and i for one, am looking forward to that, if and when it happens :)

GANG2 is from Enterbay's ORIGINAL series and is currently available via online for a SRP of US$70 - with a fixed-rate shipping cost of US$35-per via EMS Express post service from Hong Kong (rates accurate at time of post/review, based on Enterbay's website info). no other images of G2 is currently posted on the website, so i am not 100%-sure if the figure is still available. do drop them an email to confirm availability, yeh? :)

Anna Chambers' Burgerlog Doodie Doll Plush

2008-01-06T16:55:00.000+08:00

(Doodie Doll Is Not A Toy)
THE STORY: "something stinky, something gross, all churned up to make something cute!"

Burgerlog is the brainchild and creation of Anna Chambers, in which poopies of all shapes, sizes and texture (*cough*) are made adorable and huggable via handcrafted fabric and lurve. my humble thanks to Anna for this Doodie-dool you seen here in this post :)

THE PACKAGING: "plush-poopie-in-a-baggie". im loving the simple clear-baggie-packaging with a header-card. very frills-free DIY and ultimately charming. makes the figure pop out (pun intended :p) without clamouring for attention.

the stingy-toybugger in me appreciates the self-imposed notion that this translates to not being charged too much for the cost of packaging, IMHO. and the reality is, you'd not want to keep Doodie in the package, and want to free it to let it run around free and for cuddles (if he could escape from the porcelain-throne, you'd not expect to keep him lockedup for too long) LOL

THE FIGURE: the Doodie-doll i received is Tubby (i believe) and he stands 19cm / nearly 8" tall and is thoroughly cuddly! (as gag-worthy as it may sound coming from a grownassman, it is also very true). Tubby Doodie is soft to the touch and caress, and is puffed-up just nice and tight, fit and hardy like a brand new pillow.

the fabric-tag is a very cool touch and professionally-made. in fact, for a self-made plush, this is as professionally-produced as i've seen thus far. (*note: the plush CANNOT standup by itself as shwon in the pictures! i just propped him up becoz he too is a vain doodie and wanna be seen handsome and all LOL)

and tis a big doodie-too! (seen here mucking about with Crazy Label's Seamour Sheep vinyl - whom i assume is not too delighted with Doodie riding him LOL :p)

THE DESIGN: i am thoroughly charmed by it's form and shape. each Doodie doll is unique, as they are handmade by Anna herself and no two are alike. and i almost cannot resist stubby & chubby limbs LOL

the swirl on poopie-head is a hilarious-touch (i'd leave it to your imagination on it's origins LOL) amd the big beady button-eyes gives it a genuine expression i'd not thought possible with a plastic-button.

PLUS: tis the Doodiest Plushed-Doodie to Have Doodie-Plushed 2007.

/// peep Burgerlog-blog to see adventures of the various Doodies in different parts of the world (where you can email your pictures of Doodie-dolls to Anna and she'll post them on the blog) and also Burgerlog2-blog (the Japanese Edition!)

MINUS: i wish i could have more of them, and be able to claim to folks i have the cutest pile of doodie evah! LOL

WRAP-UP: truly one of my fav plushies received in 2007. i'd like to comment on the price and how that it would be value for money, but the fact is seems all Doodie-dolls are SOLD OUT in the Burgerlog-gallery! (daymn i feel lucky!) ... go bug Anna to see if she's making anymore in 2008, yeh? :p

meanwhile, Anna Chambers has produced a sweet selection of plush-creations with her Woodchucks and Lucy Owls (with ESC Toy)

Ron English's Rabbbit from Dark Horse

2008-01-06T15:36:00.000+08:00

i've only seen images of Ron English's Rabbbit vinyl figure online and thru his pop-artworks, and had enjoyed what i had seen. now thanks to Dark Horse, i have an opportunity to give a personal review of this figure:

THE PACKAGING: what draws your attention first is the deceptively simple and attractive full color window-boxed figure (with ample space within). then the three-eyed creature within grabs you by your eye-sockets and your intrigue, simultaneously wondering what's the peaceful zen-like hypnotic stare's gonna do to your pop-culture-lurvin' psyche.

personally, the contrasting pop-dots within the box surface serves as quite an ideal (diorama) display for Rabbbit, standing there partially hidden amongst the colors, a striking image stares back out. unfortunately the surface is easily damaged, when removing the twist-ties and plastic-mould backing from the figure.

THE FIGURE: standing @ 9"-ers tall, this soft vinyl figure is non-articulated. (hence "figure" and not "toy" :p). a silent observer amidst other shorter vinyl figures :)

THE DESIGN: the figure character design itself is charmingly retro, with a heavy dose of kitsch, both disturbing and unique, especially with his three eyes, 2 noses and 2 mouths (would've loved to see a single mischievous tongue sticking out from one of it tho hahaha) and the stubby three rabbit-ears, very reminiscent of Indian-deity halo-ed flames (IMHO). a lethal-sweet color combo of baby blue and pastel pink contrasts lightly with the off-whites in the eye-balls, tummy and fluff-tail = *very nice*

personally, i reckon it would've been pretty kick-a$$ if the off-white areas were GID (Glow-In-The-Dark), IMHO *heh*

PLUS: the unique character design mentioned above, and a banging good sculpt, to boot! :)))

MINUS:
i've only 2 gripes so far:
(1) the quality of the figure is a tad disappointing, with visible mould-joints around the figure, especially the obvious visible neck-to-head joints (which came apart slightly when i tugged at it gently, my bad :p), which is fine if the figure is left standing as-is and you don't take a peek underneath :p

but then again, this was released at the end of 2005, innit?

(2) the condition of the figure straight out-of-the-box, with slight dirt smudged over some surfaces (dust?) and a tad hard to wipe off, even with a damp cloth. (will try other liquids later on).

WRAP-UP: altho released more than a year ago, this Ron-English-design has lasted pretty well since (except for the physical dirt within) and has become an iconic representation of the artist, moreso than anything else i've seen so far, IMHO. and @ an uberly-affordable price of USD$17.99, you can do no wrong with having this figure in your collection.

check out Dark Horse for ordering details / and my multiply-album for more images of Rabbbit :)

[POSTED circa 25.01.07]

Touma's Zugan by Play Imaginative

2007-12-10T21:21:00.000+08:00

i review a Touma-designed ZUGAN vinyl figure (from Mephist Festa),
with "wrap"-design by Jim Koch [blogged]:

TOY STORY: managed to snag this figure @ an irresistible price (you say: "discount" and i say: "how high?") at the PI@Galleria Foyer showcase on their first day (Sat) - primarily becoz both Touma [tag] and Furi Furi [tag] autographed it! - quite a surprising circumstance, as both Japanese designers/creators were signing on each other's toys at one point - there was also a Wood Grabbit (which i dearly wanted but cannot afford) as well as a Back&Bocky set.

DESIGN: the colors were eye-catching enough (kudos to Jim Koch's design, 'natch) with a muted fuscia-pink and matt-black. the wings-design at the back was purdy-nice, and im wondering if Touma designed-Zugan with an "ashtray" in mind? *cough-cough* ... or am i too thick to notice the subtility?

(Touma signed at "back" of ball-head)
TREATMENT: am liking the figure's weightage (i like a little bulk in my "bigger" toys, mind) and the matt-surface finish, with a small tinge of glossier-highlights at some areas (chest crest and back logo) are a neat touch. altho i haveta say, matt-black surface makes me a tad nervous, becoz it's very prone to scratches and marks, and boy, would they show. mine already does :( - including two glossy-spots on the matt-arms ... besides that, the paint-apps were mostly smooth and decent, but for a few uneven areas, primarily at the edge of surfaces (underneath). squint your eye and you'll be fine.

there was a small (but horrifying) dent (on back of "ashtray-neckbrace") that i had not noticed before (and only until i took pictures of it at home), so it could've happened anywhere (altho i did not box-up the figure myself personally) - a shame really ... or am i expecting way too much for a vinyl figure within this price-range? either that, or i have a terminal case of toyqualicontrol-titis ... but overall a decent production figure (worth *3 dancing Bockyz*), with mondo points given to initial design and form, and minus a point or two for quality of finish, IMHO.

(lil Bocky's dancing around the ~~ashtray~~ neck-guard's edge)
STABILITY: even with a bulky main-body design, the figure actually stands up pretty darn well (less chances of shelf-dives). seriously, i like to be able to pose my figure and not have it fall down at any given nudge, and if ZUGAN stands between the Gates Of Hell? i would think twice about trying to knock him down! *heh*

("SAFE SEX" = LOL - base signed by Tei of Furi Furi)
ARTICULATION: a slight tightness to both the swivel head and both legs - which i feel is a good thing (don't want no free-swinging joints, yeh? LOL). and what i actually like about the arm-shoulder joints was that it's a ball-"joint" that can be detached! re-attaching it back requires a lil small amount of effort (but of coz don't constantly much about with it lah!) - great for folks who'd wanna consider customizing it, IMHO. there really isn't a attachment mechanism involved, just a tight-fit, with still room for the arm to move about = *nice*

and becoz he's stable, you would find him lying on the ground below the display-shelf the following morning, missing an arm, becoz the dog went and chewed on it. yep. horkay.

(RAWK-ON!)
IT'S A WRAP: frankly, as much as i prefer Super7's and One-Up's colorways, this pink-boy still rawks (im endeavouring to embrace my inner-pink, thanks) ... altho my own personal preference is; the "bulkier" the toy, the simpler the design ... but that's just me.

(~happy times~)
irregardless, this figure also holds the distinction of being the second only vinyl toy in my finite collection that has been autographed. (the first one was a contest-prize) ... damn, that's how effin' pathetic i am. ya feel me? = of coz not! oh ye with a horde of signed toys! ... *HAH*

[POSTED circa 02.07.07]

The Screaming Hand (Blue)

2007-12-10T21:09:00.000+08:00

let me start by stating that Made By Monsters X Garageworks Industries' SCREAMING HAND vinyl [tagged] is a gorgeous adaptation of the iconic design by Jim Philips, with a beautiful sculpt mysteriously peering thru a handsome matt+gloss-finish box with window display:

upon opening the box (tis a box i'd like to keep, so gingerly does it LOL) i'm initially surprised by it's sheer weight - clocking in at 1.6KG! with the bulk of the weight primarily from the solid PVC grey base and stainless steel rods, with the hand itself a much lighter vinyl piece. and what a sweet-sculpt it is, IMHO.

the details are great; from the "veins" on the forehand, to the lightly textured tongue (i was going to add some vaseline or gel on the tongue, to make it look "moist", for photo-taking, but was too lazy and i sure didn't wanna do anything to this beaut just when i opened it, yeh? LOL) and the wrist-stump is in glossy-blood red (nice) altho there is no sign of any bone cartilage ... *heh

frankly, if the hand were more insanely detailed, it would look like a Halloween-prop! this way, it retains still the spirit of urban art vinyls, IMHO :) ... anyways, the Screaming Hand does not smoke, thus it's teeth are pearly-white LOL

one thing to note tho: the Hand can be removed from both the stumps and the rods from the base, which renders it a tad tricky to balance - becoz if not perched properly, the Hand would slant sideways (but not fall) - which frankly was a tad disconcerting, to say the least ...

according to MisterLink (of Garageworks Industries), Jim and himself decided to not glue the rods to the base and figure, so rather than having it stuck stiff on a stand; folks can pose the hand indifferent angles and/or remove it completely to "play" - which makes the Screaming Hand more "lively" and enjoyable = for which i totally agree with (see the fun i had with picture-taking and posing below LOL) and for which renders this item beyond "just a sculpture", IMHO :)

one particular thing about the Screaming Hand-vinyl is the size of it = standing at 8 X 10"-ers tall (on stand) - tis a near-perfect humanoid-size! (ie: great for game-play and halloweens - NOT that you'd be bringing your SH out and be mucking about with it, yeh? HAH) ... bare in my mind own hands are not exactly huge tho LOL

limited to 500pcs and priced at USD$150 per, the Screaming Hand, in my humble opinion is indeed a worthwhile addition to your collection, especially if you are a fan of Jim's work and the movement/lifestyle which surrounds said heritage. and while this may not be the vinyl figure for everyone, as a (basic) errant "tourist" of urbanstreetstyle, it is still a sweet sculpt to be had, IMHO.

/// hit up info@garageworksindustries.com to order yours today, if you so please :)

UPCOMING RELEASENEWS:

/// watch out for an upcoming interview with Jim Phillips in HongKong's MILK magazine (once i know the particular issue#, i'll letcha know, yeh?)

/// Made By Monsters is going to produce a Jim Phillips X Sillything Screaming Hand - which will be sold @ Sillything HK with an exclusive limit of 100pcs ... it will be a blue-hand but with a different stand.

/// good news for the US Market, as there will be a Reverse Colorway-version made, with a RED body and BLUE tongue, and will NOT be a limited item!

/// other upcoming iconic releases planned are the Moon Hand and Rat Hand!!!!

*needless to say folks, stay tuned to this blog for future reveals!* LOL

*phew* - breatthless news indeed ... more images of Screaming Hand can be viewed on my MULTIPLY ... meanwhile here's some fun shots i did with my 1/6th-figures!

*run away pink bunny, run away!*

*chillin' wit da Hand*

have you ever had that feeling someone or something was behind you? ....

... Screaming Hands have feelings too....

*my sincere gratitude to MisterLink and all @ Made By Monsters and Garagework Industries for this piece of vinyl-art and for the lurve!*

[POSTED circa 28.06.07]

DIY Blank Munny from Kidrobot (Video-Review)

2007-12-10T19:51:00.000+08:00

my 2nd Toysrevil-Toy-Video-Review with my 1st DIY Munny!
(the 2nd part of the Anarchy In UK-contest prize)

[music: intro-sample from DJ Shadow's Six Days (Mos Def remix)
main-track: "Antique Toys" by Future Sound of London] *heh*
[POSTED circa 25.11.06]

Genius Collection Figures from Jailbreak Toys

2007-12-10T19:46:00.000+08:00

a while back i received a care-package courtesy of JailBreak Toys containing their first ever toy; Lord Crumwell's Oddfellows / the Genius Collection ~ and as appreciation, i'd wanted to do a small review about them. and of coz the idea grew beyond initial plans and month/s later, with a borrowed digi-cam, a junked audio-commentary-track (becoz my voice is crap), may i present for your viewing pleasure and consideration: the first-ever Toysrevil-Toy-Review In Video!:

(music: Kevin England's Summer Down, from Dubbed Out in DC)
and here are some images for size comparison (click to view bigger image)

as you can see, i had some fun :p

and re-visiting my previous dios and even Dr.Greensworth again hahaha

*heh* ~ watch out for their upcoming Artist Collection :)

thanks again to Jason and JailBreak Toys for the figures :)
[POSTED circa 19.11.06]

dKiller Panda's Monster Theatre Figures (Dark Horse)

2007-12-10T19:27:00.000+08:00

hot off the production-line and into my grubby arms comes Series One of dKiller Panda's new Monster Theatre-mini figures (produced by SD Toys), courtesy of Dark Horse. first thing i noticed (as compared to the small images found on DH's product reference site) was that the figures were far more impressive than the images shown. waaaaay impressive. do take a virtual walk with me thru my humble review of the figures, shall we? :)

THE PACKAGING: boxed-up in a simple (but classy-ish) elongated black-box with frontal window display, with white text and graphics. the DKiller Panda's icon/logo is prominent on box sides, while the back shows the entire family of the Monster Theater-series. the packaging is stylish. (but i've always been partial to anything "black" anyways LOL)

both dKiller Panda's and SD Toy's website URLs are displayed clearly (at back), and that is something i would appreciate, rather than just "nameless" designed-figures randomly displayed LOL (a small quirk of mine, my apologies)

THE QUALITY: the 3"-er tall PVC figures have no articulation whatsoever. and regardless of some minor finishing irregularities, the black-and-white paint-work was commendable. and they could stand/balance by themselves. that to me is a big-plus :)

THE DESIGN / SCULPT: designed by dKiller Panda [interviewed here], there are 6 classic horror characters in this series, split-up between two "sets", with Set One featuring Nosfe, the Invisible and London [here] while Set Two features Franky, the Bride and Mummy (which is the set i have and am reviewing :p)

personally, i feel the designs are "killer" (sorry, i had to get that in LOL) and the sculpts are phenominal. as unarticulated as these figures are, they have a "life" of their own, just from the design. a quasi-super-deformed design-take on classic horror characters, perfect for the quasi-kitty-cute-generation, while not alienating the older folks (*ahem*), IMHO

and as "scared" as we should be from these things-that-go-bump-in-the-night, they are enduringly ~~cute~~ adorable and an actual delight to look at, IMHO ... heck, i can even imagine them squealing in miniature voices, for attention! especially Mummy who goes around trying to scare folks, while teh Bride calmly and coolly stands back and just wants to dance, while Franky seems so keen to have fun as well, but am clueless to get about it! .... or maybe tis the caffeine in my system babbling ... *twitch-twitch*

wish i had Set One too tho, i kinda like Nosfe (from looking at the images) *heh*

EXTRAS: in addition to the two boxed-sets, there is also the Monster Theater Display Cases = where a singular display-box includes 2 each of the 6 characters, from Monster Theater PVC set 1 & 2 -- (Vampi, London, Invisible, Frankie, Bride, Mummy) - which means it'll be "easier" for collectors to just get whom they like, without getting the entire box.

PLUS: great sculpts and design. 'nuff said .. and with it's small size, i reckon i could/would be able to cobble-up some diorama/s for them to muck-about in, innit?

MINUS:
01. no articulation. it would have been nice if at least the arms/shoulders were able to move, where we could do the "im-coming-to-grab-you"-pose, yeh? LOL

02. packaging: mayhap folks not looking specifically for these figures might miss it, as the figures might not "pop out" enough, laid against the blackened-interiors, IMHO. altho one can argue about the "whites" popping out from the blacks ... but only if tis under a spotlight? but stacked-up with other boxes? ... other than that, how could you look away from the mysterious monstrous faces looking out back atcha? *heh*

MY TOY-WISH-LIST: wouldn't be cool if they are bigger vinyls, yeh? i would really mind a decent 6"-er, yeh? heck, throw me an 8"-er and i'll be all over it in a deadened-heartbeat! *LOL*

WRAP-UP: be it you're a classics-connoisseur or contemporary urban vinyl collector, these sets are worth every penny, becoz the "value" goes beyond the after-market price-points, and would have a place in yourr memories, if not your toy-lurving-hearts, IMHO :)

WHERE TO GET:
- Set One (nosfe / the invisible / london)
- Set Two (franky / the bride / mummy)
- Monster Theater Figure Display
- dKiller Panda's website

EXTRA LINKS:
- the dKiller Panda Interview ON TOYSREVIL-weblog
- more Monster Theater images on my multiply

[POSTED circa 13.05.07]

Spider Man Black (Spiderman Origins: Signature Series)

2007-12-10T19:25:00.000+08:00

and so i stumbled into this new figure in Toys'R'Us, with the intention to utilize the uniform for a Shadowman-bash ... but alas, this Spiderman Origins Signature Series figure left me wanting ... read my short review on my multiply

and there's a few more shots of the Venom Deluxe figure too here ~ *heh*

[POSTED circa 11.03.07]

Amy & Jordan Bendable Figure Set (Dark Horse)

2007-12-10T19:17:00.000+08:00

Amy & Jordan is a comicbook couple created by Mark Beyer, who victimize each other and by blind circumstance. the dysfunctional duo appeared in a long running weekly comicstrip that had appeared in alternative newspapers in the U.S, and had been collected into trades and comicbooks (Agony) and was even listed in Time Magazine's "Best Comix of 2004". [wiki/dh]

now you are able to "re-live" the couple's "adventures" in your own
home with Dark Horse Deluxe's Amy & Jordan Bendable Figure Set:

THE PACKAGING: front-window display box with a panel of "original" Amy & Jordan art at back of box (would've been nice to actually have an entire self-contained story-strip tho, and/or a write-up about the artist and his creations, IMHO). the box opens up to a base which could actually double-up as a diorama-backdrop :p

THE FIGURINES: within stands 2 X 8" bendable figurines featuring Beyer's characters sculpted by the folks @ Yoe Studio. and becoz the comicbook-look of the duo is "2-D", the 3-D bendy-figures actually reflects that, a pancake-thick couple - which i had thought was pretty cool and farnie :p

and becoz they are bendy (like Gumby), certain parts of their bods, like arms and legs, even torso, can be bent to a certain extent ... be it the Marcarena (spl) or bustin' a b-boy wave *LOL*

WRAP-UP: this set is no doubt a treat for Amy & Jordan-fans! but priced @ near USD$30, i would say this collectible figurine set will only appeal to the A&J comicbook fans, but outside of that would get lost in the display shelves, amidst the hyper-detailed and colorful figures of today's toys and designer vinyls. "recognition" is key and if this appeals only to the "alternative comic-readers"-crowd who already knew of their existence, then it does a decent job of that. but to gain newer fans who know nothing about A&J?

(1) character intros or even information of their creator could've been printed on the back of the display-box.

(2) mayhap the set could include a re-print of their stories in a comic? to gain newer fans, rather than just ~~bank~~ rely on the "older" ones? i feel mayhap to fully "appreciate" these figures, would be for the folks to know what Beyer's comicbooks/strips were all about.

(3) i had wanted to suggest a display-box color-change, but in reality, if folks are not familiar with A&J in the first place, a colorful box might end up just another colorful box (abetted an eye-catcher tho).

- click here for a Amazon collected hardcover book :p

- the Amy & Jordan Bendable figure set is available here @DarkHorse

- for a more detailed review and bigger+more pictures (18 images), do log unto my multiply-album here *heh*

[POSTED circa 02.02.07]

1/6 Dragon Wong (Comicbook Version) of Dragon Tiger Gate

2007-12-10T19:15:00.000+08:00

Dragon Wong = the third and final 1/6th release of DragonTigerGate-trio:
~ click on image below to read/view my short toy review of the figure ~

Dragon Wong, together with Tiger Wong (Dragon's younger brother) and their friend; Turbo Shek, were released as 1/6th articulated figures in conjunction with the 36th anniversary of the HK comicbook; Dragon Tiger Gate, better known as Oriental Heroes or Lóng Hǔ Mén (龙虎门 / 龍虎門)

:: the story of my 1/6 DTG ::

i was first "attracted" to this series becoz i had chanced upon an earlier incarnation of an older/adult Tiger Wong (pictured here) and had lurved the comic/anime-ish headsculpt and dug the long hair (rare in 1/6th-sculpts) *LOL* - again happened to see Dragon and Turbo displayed by another local collector/friend, which promptly blew me away with their hair-details! ahahahaha ... but alas tracking down the other two figures had proven futile...

i then had an opportunity to procure another "new" series of figures (featured currently), but with the headsculpts of them "at a younger stage in their life" and more "comic-book"-inspired, and hence without even looking at the product (no images were found online by myself), i plonked down a full advance for the trio of figures ... this was indeed foolish and totally goes against my purchasing-principle of see-before-you-buy ahahaha :p

all three figures worked out to be near SGD$120/USD$78, which was not half-bad for a full figure, really ... but considering t'was only the headsculpt i was gunning for, SGD$30 for a piece'a head was mildly ridiculous hahahaha

but i like 'em! especially Dragon's, with the teasing-fringe hahahahaha (as plastiky and bootlegged they might look LOL) ~ my thoughts and opinions on the figures are in my reviews:
- Dragon Wong / multiplied
- Turbo Shek / multiplied
- Tiger Wong / multiplied

and one of the main reasons for featuring these trio on my blog is, at least there'll be a record of these figures online, that hopefully will/would be easily/easier to access (at least in the English-language searches) *heh*

[POSTED circa 07.01.07]

1/6 Shadowman From Darkbox Workshop

2007-12-10T19:08:00.000+08:00

my first-ever published toy-review in Playtimes Vol:2 Issue#8

"I've always collected "nudes" ever since i started this hobby. And by that I mean "12-inch-action-figures-sans-clothing-and-accessories", which makes for great kitbash fodder options, IMHO."

"And it was with a certain sense of trepidation and excitement when I was asked to review a "new" action figure from Dark Box Workshop, named "Shadowman."

the entire review can be found here on my multiply (including some new additions :p) = BUT i would strongly suggest you guys go buy the magazine as well, coz there's loads other nifty toy-stuff galore to be found within! (NOT a shamless plug, i assure y'all *muahahahaha*)

all images can be found on my multiply here :)

[POSTED circa 10.11.06]

1/6 Tiger Wong Comicbook Version (Dragon Tiger Gate)

2007-12-10T19:02:00.000+08:00

a quick overview of a 12"-er Tiger Wong (Comicbook Teeganer-version) of DragonTigerGate

/// CLICK HERE TO VIEW (Multiply-album)
[POSTED circa 29.09.06]

Saturday Toys SWAT Gear Set (Male)

2007-12-10T18:55:00.000+08:00

Saturday Toys have arrived in singapore, sunday just! ~ got me the male-set to check out before i'd commit to the female-set.
PACKAGING:

rudimentary to the point of no-frills packaging (hopefully defraying the final cost, as well!), with the gears all strapped unto a basic cardboard-frame. the shelf-price was SGD$50 per set and it does not include boots, gas mask or any weapons.

THE FIT: tried putting the uniform unto a BBI-G3 figure. the shirt fit rather decently, while the pants seemed more suited to a slimmer waist (altho it still fit well on the G3). lazy-me tried to pull-up the pants together with the various straps (originally attached) ~ doesn't work, so i hadda strip it all down and attach-on after the pants were up.

LOOK OF BASIC SET-UP:

THE GEARS: it was a pretty tight-fit indeed with the safety-vest and gear-vest. mayhap it'll work better on a fig with smaller chest (appreciate the small-zipper-head tho). the pouch-details weren't really half-bad, made of thinner material, which should make for better draping when ya stuff i up. the straps reminded me of basic 21st Century stuff a whiles back, but with velcro, lots of it! it didn't come with a belt (per se) which is fine, coz you'd wanna replace it anyways. the gun-holster was a pleasant surprise and you'd know effort was put into that. and while i found the shoulder-emblem a real pain-in-da-ass, the worst item has got to be the baseball cap. totally useless, it couldn't even get a grip on the headsculpt i used - too small even!

other than that, tis as decent as you'll be able to get, at this price and day and toy-age.

ADDITIONAL SET-UP (KITBASHED):

add on additional stuff like boots, knee-guards and weapons (and mayhap an eye-patch? *heh*) and the set seems more than utilitarian and makes for a decent value-for-money.

me? i'd rather hold-out for some bargains for the good 'ol BBI LAPD SWAT boxed sets (can't afford / rather than Hot Toys, IMHO) ~ IF i could find them, that is! hope this lil review helped? *cheers*

[POSTED circa 29.05.06]