Unless you have been hiding under a rock in Bikini Bottom with Patrick the Starfish from SpongeBob SquarePants fame, you'll know that Britain's Prince William finally married Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey on Friday, April 29, 2011 in a sumptuous show of British pageantry that attracted a huge world audience and breathed new life into the monarchy.
One million well-wishers watched military bands in black bearskin hats and household cavalrymen in shining breastplates escorting the beaming couple in a 1902 open-topped state landau carriage after the ceremony.
The soldiers in black bearskin hats are the Queen's Foot Guards / Palace Guards and the cavalrymen are none finer than the Queen's Household Cavalry - the Blues and Royals, and the Life Guards. Click on the picture below for a bigger and better view of Her Majesty's Royal Guards.
Allow me to share with you pictures of these fine 12-inch action figures from the Palitoy Action Man line. Palitoy produced and released these magnificent 1:6 scale Ceremonials in the 1970s which were amazingly detailed and intricate for their time. Mind you, these were targeted at children and till today, no other 1/6 manufacturer has ventured to reproduce most of these figures. Hasbro did re-release these Action Man figures under the Action Man 40th Anniversary Nostalgic Collection which allowed many adult collectors to re-live and revisit their childhood again as well as for new collectors to marvel at these vintage styled action figures.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
A is also for Atom
Professor Ray Palmer is the ATOM, an expert physicist at the prestigious Boston University.
The Atom possesses a belt that allows him to shrink his body to varying degrees, including the subatomic level. This ability is not restricted to him, as he is also capable of reducing the size of other people of objects he is in contact with. However, whilst he has shrunken himself, he retains all of his physical strength that he would have at his normal size, making him seem surprisingly strong.
The Atom possesses a belt that allows him to shrink his body to varying degrees, including the subatomic level. This ability is not restricted to him, as he is also capable of reducing the size of other people of objects he is in contact with. However, whilst he has shrunken himself, he retains all of his physical strength that he would have at his normal size, making him seem surprisingly strong.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
VeryHot 1:6 USMC Force Recon VBSS (OD) PREVIEW
From the looks of things, it appears that Very Hot will be releasing two variations of this set - one with tan nomex flightsuit (see my earlier post HERE), and one with OD Green flightsuit.
Very Hot has released these preview images of their upcoming United Stated Marine Corp Force Recon Visit, Board, Search & Seizure (VBSS) Uniform Sets but no other information is available regarding the loadouts.
Very Hot has released these preview images of their upcoming United Stated Marine Corp Force Recon Visit, Board, Search & Seizure (VBSS) Uniform Sets but no other information is available regarding the loadouts.
Z is for Zam Wesell
Zam Wesell was a shape-shifting Clawdite bounty hunter from the planet Zolan. The character of Zam Wesell was played by actress Leeanna Walsman in "Attack of the Clones (2002)".
Wesell took the form of a Human woman and took a job in personal security. Over time, she moved up through the ranks by honing her skills, gathering equipment, garnering finances and making valuable contacts which altogether allowed her to begin a career in bounty hunting.
Wesell took the form of a Human woman and took a job in personal security. Over time, she moved up through the ranks by honing her skills, gathering equipment, garnering finances and making valuable contacts which altogether allowed her to begin a career in bounty hunting.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
VeryHot US Marine Force Recon VBSS (Sand Version) PREVIEW
This is the upcoming VeryHot: U.S. Marine Force Recon - VBSS operation training group (Sand Version) 1/6 scale uniform boxed set. Body and Head is NOT included.
Visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) is the term for maritime boarding actions and tactics, designed to capture enemy vessels, to combat terrorism, piracy and smuggling, and to conduct customs, safety and other inspections, as employed by modern navies, marine and maritime services, military and police forces. [source: wiki]
Visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) is the term for maritime boarding actions and tactics, designed to capture enemy vessels, to combat terrorism, piracy and smuggling, and to conduct customs, safety and other inspections, as employed by modern navies, marine and maritime services, military and police forces. [source: wiki]
Y is for Yoda
In the days of the Old Republic, Jedi Master Yoda was the most wise and powerful of all Jedi. Diminutive and unassuming, Yoda had no equals in his keen insight into the Force, or in his agile skill with a lightsaber.
Yoda made his first film appearance in "The Empire Strikes Back (1980)". Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) arrives on Dagobah to seek his guidance, having been instructed to do so by the Force ghost of Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness).
Yoda made his first film appearance in "The Empire Strikes Back (1980)". Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) arrives on Dagobah to seek his guidance, having been instructed to do so by the Force ghost of Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness).
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
X is for X-wing Starfighter
The Incom T-65 X-wing starfighter was the primary all-purpose starfighter of the Rebel Alliance and its successor governments. The X-wing played a major role in the Galactic Civil War following its capture on Fresia and the defection of its designers to the Alliance. It was most heralded as the fighter that destroyed the Death Star at the hands of Luke Skywalker. [source: wookipedia]
The X-wing was so predominantly flown by Rebel and New Republic forces that it became a symbol of their faction, much like the TIE fighter and Star Destroyer were symbols of the Galactic Empire.
The X-wing was so predominantly flown by Rebel and New Republic forces that it became a symbol of their faction, much like the TIE fighter and Star Destroyer were symbols of the Galactic Empire.
Monday, April 25, 2011
W is for Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman, known also as Diana of Themyscira, was the princess of the Amazons and one of the original seven founders of the Justice League.
When "Man's World" came under attack by the Imperium, Diana left Themyscira and joined Hawkgirl, Green Lantern, and the Flash in the initial battle before all seven (Batman, J'onn J'onzz and Superman) took on the Imperium and defeated them.
When "Man's World" came under attack by the Imperium, Diana left Themyscira and joined Hawkgirl, Green Lantern, and the Flash in the initial battle before all seven (Batman, J'onn J'onzz and Superman) took on the Imperium and defeated them.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
V is for Victor Fries aka Mr Freeze
Dr. Victor Fries, through tragic circumstances, became known as the villain Mr. Freeze. Paul Dini and Bruce Timm re-imagined the entire history and motivation of Mr. Freeze to produce a villain that could be taken as both a believable character and a deadly, serious threat.
The creative team invented the character of the terminally ill Nora Fries to flesh out the backstory of a fully-realized tragic villain. It was the first complete overhaul of a pre-existing character in the DC Animated Universe, and to this day it is arguably the most successful.
The creative team invented the character of the terminally ill Nora Fries to flesh out the backstory of a fully-realized tragic villain. It was the first complete overhaul of a pre-existing character in the DC Animated Universe, and to this day it is arguably the most successful.
Tim Hetherington killed in Libya
An Oscar-nominated war-film director and a second prize-winning photojournalist died covering a battle between rebels and Libyan government forces in the western city of Misrata on Wednesday, 20 April 2011.
British-born Tim Hetherington, co-director of the 2010 documentary "Restrepo" about U.S. soldiers on an outpost in Afghanistan, was killed, said his U.S.-based publicist, Johanna Ramos Boyer. Hetherington was best known as co-director of the documentary film "Restrepo" with Sebastian Junger, author of "The Perfect Storm." The film tells the story of the 2nd Platoon of Battle Company in the 173rd Airborne Combat Team on its deployment in Afghanistan in 2007 and 2008. It was nominated for an Academy Award for best documentary. The title refers to the platoon outpost, named after a popular soldier, Juan Restrepo, who was killed early in the fighting. (I had blogged about the documentary earlier HERE)
Chris Hondros, a New York-based photographer for Getty Images, died later Wednesday after suffering a serious head wound, according to Getty's director of photography, Pancho Bernasconi.
Two other Western photographers apparently working alongside them were wounded. Doctors said two other photographers were treated for shrapnel wounds: Guy Martin, a Briton affiliated with the Panos photo agency, and Michael Christopher Brown, a New York-based photographer originally from Skagit Valley, Wash.
"Tim was in Libya to continue his ongoing multimedia project to highlight humanitarian issues during time of war and conflict," Hetherington's family said in a statement. "He will be forever missed." [source: nbc]
British-born Tim Hetherington, co-director of the 2010 documentary "Restrepo" about U.S. soldiers on an outpost in Afghanistan, was killed, said his U.S.-based publicist, Johanna Ramos Boyer. Hetherington was best known as co-director of the documentary film "Restrepo" with Sebastian Junger, author of "The Perfect Storm." The film tells the story of the 2nd Platoon of Battle Company in the 173rd Airborne Combat Team on its deployment in Afghanistan in 2007 and 2008. It was nominated for an Academy Award for best documentary. The title refers to the platoon outpost, named after a popular soldier, Juan Restrepo, who was killed early in the fighting. (I had blogged about the documentary earlier HERE)
Chris Hondros, a New York-based photographer for Getty Images, died later Wednesday after suffering a serious head wound, according to Getty's director of photography, Pancho Bernasconi.
Two other Western photographers apparently working alongside them were wounded. Doctors said two other photographers were treated for shrapnel wounds: Guy Martin, a Briton affiliated with the Panos photo agency, and Michael Christopher Brown, a New York-based photographer originally from Skagit Valley, Wash.
"Tim was in Libya to continue his ongoing multimedia project to highlight humanitarian issues during time of war and conflict," Hetherington's family said in a statement. "He will be forever missed." [source: nbc]
Saturday, April 23, 2011
U is for Ultra-Humanite
Ultra-Humanite was an albino gorilla whose intelligence is far superior to many men. Unfortunately, his true talents were not put to use when he served as a member of the Injustice Gang.
The Ultra-Humanite is the first supervillain faced by Superman. He was designed to be the polar opposite of Superman; while Superman is a hero with superhuman strength, Ultra-Humanite is a criminal mastermind who has a crippled body but a highly advanced intellect.
The Ultra-Humanite is the first supervillain faced by Superman. He was designed to be the polar opposite of Superman; while Superman is a hero with superhuman strength, Ultra-Humanite is a criminal mastermind who has a crippled body but a highly advanced intellect.
Soldier Story 1/6 USAF CCT (Combat Control Team) Expo Exclusive PREVIEW
For the 10th Annual CMEXPO (China Model Exposition), Soldier Story will be releasing this exclusive 1:6 scale USAF Combat Control Team (CCT) 12-inch figure. The figure seems to be saying "Hurry! Hurry! Go that way to grab your exclusives before they run out of stocks!"
The MSA Paraclete Concealment Vest Carrier is nice; it is the same type that came with BBI Joe Brennan. The HK416 also looks to be well done with lots of details.
The MSA Paraclete Concealment Vest Carrier is nice; it is the same type that came with BBI Joe Brennan. The HK416 also looks to be well done with lots of details.
Friday, April 22, 2011
T is for Terry McGinnis aka Batman Beyond
Terry McGinnis adopted the identity of Batman in the future. Like his predecessor, McGinnis fought crime and injustice in Gotham City and elsewhere for many years.
"Batman Beyond" (also known as "Batman of the Future" in some countries until its reruns) was the fourth television series produced in the DC Animated Universe continuity. It began airing on January 10, 1999 and ended its run on December 18, 2001.
"Batman Beyond" (also known as "Batman of the Future" in some countries until its reruns) was the fourth television series produced in the DC Animated Universe continuity. It began airing on January 10, 1999 and ended its run on December 18, 2001.
I collect Action Figures! And here are some of them
Eric Stettmeier aka Bubba Shelby of Toyriffic recently posted an entry "Action Figure or Doll?" on his blog :) It made for some interesting reading and generated quite a response. I thought I'll jump in with my two cents worth.
Definition of Action Figure from Wikipedia - Ac•tion Fig•ure: An action figure is a pose-able character figurine, made of plastic or other materials, and often based upon characters from a movie, comic book, video game, or television program. These action figures are usually marketed towards boys and male collectors. [source: wiki]
The term "action figure" was first coined by Hasbro in 1964, to market their G.I. Joe figure to boys who wouldn't play with dolls. It featured changeable clothes with various uniforms to suit different purposes. In a move that would create global popularity for this type of toy, Hasbro also licensed the product to companies in other markets.
So let me state here that I collect Action Figures (NOT dolls) and am darn proud of it :) So proud in fact that I've posted 24 pictures of action figure group shots in this post alone to show how much I enjoy collecting Action Figures! Scroll down to see all ENJOY ;p
Definition of Action Figure from Wikipedia - Ac•tion Fig•ure: An action figure is a pose-able character figurine, made of plastic or other materials, and often based upon characters from a movie, comic book, video game, or television program. These action figures are usually marketed towards boys and male collectors. [source: wiki]
The term "action figure" was first coined by Hasbro in 1964, to market their G.I. Joe figure to boys who wouldn't play with dolls. It featured changeable clothes with various uniforms to suit different purposes. In a move that would create global popularity for this type of toy, Hasbro also licensed the product to companies in other markets.
So let me state here that I collect Action Figures (NOT dolls) and am darn proud of it :) So proud in fact that I've posted 24 pictures of action figure group shots in this post alone to show how much I enjoy collecting Action Figures! Scroll down to see all ENJOY ;p
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Hot Toys Iron Man 2: Mark II (Armor Unleashed Version) PREVIEW
The Iron Man craze never stops and Hot Toys just keeps them coming, wave after wave! Hot Toys is again proud to present the collectible figurine from the "Iron Man 2" movie - Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series MMS150 Iron Man 2: 1/6th scale Mark II (Armor Unleashed Version) Limited Edition Collectible Figurine.
The movie-accurate Mark II collectible is highly detailed and deployed, specially crafted based on the image of Don Cheadle as Mark II in the movie, highlighting the authentic head sculpt, as well as the detachable chest, bicep, thigh armors and LED-lighted interchangeable boots with internal exoskeleton details.
The movie-accurate Mark II collectible is highly detailed and deployed, specially crafted based on the image of Don Cheadle as Mark II in the movie, highlighting the authentic head sculpt, as well as the detachable chest, bicep, thigh armors and LED-lighted interchangeable boots with internal exoskeleton details.
S is for Superman
Superman, birth name Kal-El and adopted name Clark Kent, is also one of the founding members of the Justice League. After responding to the Imperium invasion, Superman joined with Batman, Green Lantern, Flash, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl, and J'onn J'onzz to form the Justice League.
Everybody knows how as an infant Kal-El was sent to Earth by his parents, Jor-El and Lara, prior to the destruction of their home planet, Krypton. Kal-El's space capsule landed near Smallville, Kansas, where he was found by Jonathan and Martha Kent. The Kents adopted the young Kryptonian, naming him "Clark", after Martha's maiden name.
Everybody knows how as an infant Kal-El was sent to Earth by his parents, Jor-El and Lara, prior to the destruction of their home planet, Krypton. Kal-El's space capsule landed near Smallville, Kansas, where he was found by Jonathan and Martha Kent. The Kents adopted the young Kryptonian, naming him "Clark", after Martha's maiden name.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Spidey's New Costume!
Big news from Marvel in today's papers… Spider-Man will get a new costume, and it won’t be Peter Parker wearing it! In the Ultimate Spider-Man series, Peter Parker gets shot, and someone new pics up the Spider Mantle.
“That’s not Peter Parker,” Marvel editor-in-chief Axel Alonso told The Post. “There’s going to be someone new wearing the costume.” The new webslinger and the new look – a sleek black and red costume – will make their debut at some point this summer, after the conclusion of the ominously titled “Death of Spider-Man” storyline in June’s Ultimate Spider-Man No. 160.
“That’s not Peter Parker,” Marvel editor-in-chief Axel Alonso told The Post. “There’s going to be someone new wearing the costume.” The new webslinger and the new look – a sleek black and red costume – will make their debut at some point this summer, after the conclusion of the ominously titled “Death of Spider-Man” storyline in June’s Ultimate Spider-Man No. 160.
R is for Ra's al Ghul
Ra's al Ghul (Arabic رأس الغول for "The Demon's Head") was an eco-terrorist who has lived for over 600 years through the use of Lazarus Pits.
Over his long lifetime, Ra's has become a master planner, an expert fighter, and independently wealthy, making him one of Batman's most dangerous foes.
Over his long lifetime, Ra's has become a master planner, an expert fighter, and independently wealthy, making him one of Batman's most dangerous foes.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Q is for Quinzel, Harleen aka Harley Quinn
This is one character that started on TV. Harley Quinn was created by Bruce Timm and Paul Dini, based on (and created for) Dini's friend Arleen Sorkin, who provided the character's voice. The character was so popular that she was eventually incorporated into the DC Comics universe.
Harley Quinn, real name Harleen Quinzel, was the sidekick and pseudo-girlfriend of the Joker. She occasionally struck out on her own, and was on good terms with Poison Ivy.
Harley Quinn, real name Harleen Quinzel, was the sidekick and pseudo-girlfriend of the Joker. She occasionally struck out on her own, and was on good terms with Poison Ivy.
VTS presents 1/6 Racing Girl series
These are for the hot girls of the fast track. Body and head is NOT included, only the outfits. There's something about fast cars and hot girls, and the pit girls are no exception! For most of us, these are just nice outfits to look at.
Not sure why Virtual Toys (VTS) is going into these when they'd released some interesting 1:6 products in the past, mostly alpha males and then these? Where's the logic? What's the game plan? Not most collector's cup of tea IMHO - Barbie's already churning out a lot of these chick outfits, though not so revealing.
Not sure why Virtual Toys (VTS) is going into these when they'd released some interesting 1:6 products in the past, mostly alpha males and then these? Where's the logic? What's the game plan? Not most collector's cup of tea IMHO - Barbie's already churning out a lot of these chick outfits, though not so revealing.
Monday, April 18, 2011
P is for Penguin
This is the original animated Penguin as he is seen in "Batman: The Animated Series". Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot was required to look similar to the Danny DeVito Penguin as he appeared in the movie "Batman Returns" as the movie came out roughly around the same time as the original animated series.
Director Tim Burton, inspired by the film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, re-imagined the character not as an eloquent gentleman of crime, but a physically deformed lunatic with a childhood trauma.
Director Tim Burton, inspired by the film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, re-imagined the character not as an eloquent gentleman of crime, but a physically deformed lunatic with a childhood trauma.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
1/9 Harley soft tail (or RAT TAIL) Post-apocalyptic Bike!
In July 2010, I'd posted an entry about an AWESOME 1/6 scale motorcycle custom-made by an e-bay seller "Probuilder41" based on the 1979 Australian dystopian action film "Mad Max" which starred the then relatively unknown Mel Gibson. See my post HERE for pictures of the Mad Max / Road Warrior bike.
Well, guess what? He's at it again! The response to the larger Honda model was overwhelming! So "Probuilder41" decided he'll do another bike with a little different flair.
"The rat rod craze these days is bigger than ever... so why not a rat bike? This 10 3/4" long all plastic model has rust... grime... dirt.... and oil all over the place. The paint is faded deliberately..... and has several different colors on many areas.
Well, guess what? He's at it again! The response to the larger Honda model was overwhelming! So "Probuilder41" decided he'll do another bike with a little different flair.
"The rat rod craze these days is bigger than ever... so why not a rat bike? This 10 3/4" long all plastic model has rust... grime... dirt.... and oil all over the place. The paint is faded deliberately..... and has several different colors on many areas.
O is for Oliver Queen aka Green Arrow
After selling his company for three billion dollars, Oliver "Ollie" Queen became a full time vigilante. He learned to master the bow, dressed himself as Robin Hood, developed an arsenal of trick arrows with various functions, and dubbed himself Green Arrow.
Green Arrow was summoned to enlist in the new expanded Justice League. However, as he failed to reply, John Stewart showed up when he was thwarting a grocery store robbery and teleported him into the JL Watchtower.
Green Arrow was summoned to enlist in the new expanded Justice League. However, as he failed to reply, John Stewart showed up when he was thwarting a grocery store robbery and teleported him into the JL Watchtower.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
1:6 Kitbash Leonardo DiCaprio as Dom Cobb 12-inch figure
Inception is a 2010 science fiction action heist film, written, co-produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan. The film features an ensemble cast starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Ken Watanabe, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cotillard, Ellen Page, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Dileep Rao, Tom Berenger, and Michael Caine.
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Dom Cobb, a professional thief who specializes in conning secrets from his victims by infiltrating their dreams. [source: wiki]
This is the Nobody Toys "Dreamcatcher" 1:6 scale head sculpt which IMHO has the BEST likeness of Leonardo DiCaprio so far. There's no 12-inch body or figure, just the head but what a head it is. This "Dreamcatcher" headsculpt by Nobody Toys is way aHEAD of the others and the resemblance to the actor is amazing.
Leonardo DiCaprio plays Dom Cobb, a professional thief who specializes in conning secrets from his victims by infiltrating their dreams. [source: wiki]
This is the Nobody Toys "Dreamcatcher" 1:6 scale head sculpt which IMHO has the BEST likeness of Leonardo DiCaprio so far. There's no 12-inch body or figure, just the head but what a head it is. This "Dreamcatcher" headsculpt by Nobody Toys is way aHEAD of the others and the resemblance to the actor is amazing.
Iron Dome a success
America's got her Iron Man (totally fiction) BUT Israel's got the REAL thing: the Iron Dome - that's what Israel's missile shield is called.
Iron Dome (Hebrew: כיפת ברזל) is a mobile air defense system in development by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells. The system was created as a defensive countermeasure to the rocket threat against Israel's civilian population on its northern and southern borders, and was declared operational and initially deployed in the first quarter of 2011.
On April 7, 2011, the system successfully intercepted a Grad rocket launched from Gaza, marking the first time in history a short-range rocket was ever intercepted. Immediately afterwards, an IAF aircraft targeted the squad who fired the rocket and confirmed a hit. Later that day, the IDF stressed that the system, though operational, is still under evaluation. On April 8 the system again successfully intercepted 4 additional rockets.
Iron Dome (Hebrew: כיפת ברזל) is a mobile air defense system in development by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells. The system was created as a defensive countermeasure to the rocket threat against Israel's civilian population on its northern and southern borders, and was declared operational and initially deployed in the first quarter of 2011.
On April 7, 2011, the system successfully intercepted a Grad rocket launched from Gaza, marking the first time in history a short-range rocket was ever intercepted. Immediately afterwards, an IAF aircraft targeted the squad who fired the rocket and confirmed a hit. Later that day, the IDF stressed that the system, though operational, is still under evaluation. On April 8 the system again successfully intercepted 4 additional rockets.
N is for Nightwing
Dick Grayson was the original Robin, the sidekick to Batman. In adulthood, he struck out on his own as Nightwing.
After graduating from college, Dick had a falling out with Batman over the tactics he used. He consequently left Gotham City and traveled the globe studying various martial arts and crime fighting techniques.
After graduating from college, Dick had a falling out with Batman over the tactics he used. He consequently left Gotham City and traveled the globe studying various martial arts and crime fighting techniques.
Sideshow Collectibles Cobra Ninja Viper & Clone Commander 2011 SDCC Exclusives
Comic-Con 2011: Exclusives - 1/6 scale Cobra Ninja Viper 12-inch Figure
1/6 Scale Clone Commander 12-inch Figure
More details HERE
1/6 Scale Clone Commander 12-inch Figure
More details HERE
Friday, April 15, 2011
Sandcrawler Building in Singapore
The Empire Strikes Back... Again! But this time, it's target is Singapore!
It's all systems go for the construction of Lucasfilm's first overseas production facility at Singapore's Fusionopolis. The 'Sandcrawler Building' is an eight-storey complex that will house the local arm of the recognised film and entertainment company. Fans of the sci-fi classic Star Wars would notice the striking resemblance to the real Sandcrawler - a popular mode of transport seen in various episodes.
Singapore projects to offer 1,000 more jobs in the gaming, animation and visual effects industry over the next three years. "We sought out to grow this sector over the last few years, because it brings exciting career opportunities for Singaporeans. It offers very good jobs, and I think it's in line also with the aspirations of Singaporeans, particularly the young," said Leo Yip, Chairman of the Economic Development Board (EDB). Construction of the 'Sandcrawler Building' is due for completion by 2013. [source: CNA]
It's all systems go for the construction of Lucasfilm's first overseas production facility at Singapore's Fusionopolis. The 'Sandcrawler Building' is an eight-storey complex that will house the local arm of the recognised film and entertainment company. Fans of the sci-fi classic Star Wars would notice the striking resemblance to the real Sandcrawler - a popular mode of transport seen in various episodes.
Singapore projects to offer 1,000 more jobs in the gaming, animation and visual effects industry over the next three years. "We sought out to grow this sector over the last few years, because it brings exciting career opportunities for Singaporeans. It offers very good jobs, and I think it's in line also with the aspirations of Singaporeans, particularly the young," said Leo Yip, Chairman of the Economic Development Board (EDB). Construction of the 'Sandcrawler Building' is due for completion by 2013. [source: CNA]
ACI Toys 1/6 "Warrior": FLAMMA, Gladiator of Rome Teaser
Here are some pictures of ACI Toys 1/6 scale "FLAMMA", Gladiator of Rome 12-inch figure, and he will be the 1st 1/6 scale figure from their new "Warrior" series. No other details are available at the moment but this does look rather promising.
M is for Metamorpho
Metamorpho appeared in the "Justice League" animated series episode titled "Metamorphosis". Metamorpho, real name Rex Mason, was an old Marine Corps friend of John Stewart and was transformed by the machinations of Simon Stagg.
Rex Mason worked for Simon Stagg until he fell in love with Simon's only daughter, Sapphire. When Rex discovered that chemicals were being illegally transported by Simon Stagg's company, he quit the company and revealed his affair with Saphire to Simon.
Rex Mason worked for Simon Stagg until he fell in love with Simon's only daughter, Sapphire. When Rex discovered that chemicals were being illegally transported by Simon Stagg's company, he quit the company and revealed his affair with Saphire to Simon.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Hot Toys 1/6 Sweeney Todd Collectible Figure PREVIEW
Hot Toys loves Johnny Depp. Paying tribute to the award-winning movie "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" directed by Tim Burton which is adapted from the hit Broadway musical, Hot Toys is proud to present the Sweeney Todd Collectible Figure specially crafted based on the image of Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd in the movie, highlighting the newly sculpted head, highly detailed costume and shaving accessories, movie-accurate barber chair and backdrop of the iconic movie scene.
The 1/6th scale Sweeney Todd Collectible Figure specially features:
Authentic and detailed fully realized likeness of Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd in the "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" movie, Approximately 30 cm tall, Slim version of TrueType body with 38 points of articulation, Highly detailed hair sculpture with black and grey colors, Real-like facial expression with details wrinkles and gesture, Six (6) pieces of interchangeable palms including: One (1) pair of leather-like gloved palms with relaxed left palm and right palm for holding shaving razor, One (1) pair of knitted gloved palms with relaxed left palm and right palm for holding shaving razor, One (1) pair of palms for holding shaving kit. Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
The 1/6th scale Sweeney Todd Collectible Figure specially features:
Authentic and detailed fully realized likeness of Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd in the "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" movie, Approximately 30 cm tall, Slim version of TrueType body with 38 points of articulation, Highly detailed hair sculpture with black and grey colors, Real-like facial expression with details wrinkles and gesture, Six (6) pieces of interchangeable palms including: One (1) pair of leather-like gloved palms with relaxed left palm and right palm for holding shaving razor, One (1) pair of knitted gloved palms with relaxed left palm and right palm for holding shaving razor, One (1) pair of palms for holding shaving kit. Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
ZCWO: SPY "Nikita" 12-inch Femfig PREVIEW
Nikita is an American television drama for The CW Television Network based on the French film "Nikita (1990)", the remake "Point of No Return (1993)", and a previous series "La Femme Nikita (1997)". The series stars Maggie Q as Nikita, a spy and assassin who has gone rogue. She is now working to bring down Division, the secret government agency that recruited her.
I haven't watched a single episode so I don't know if this upcoming release by ZCWO has anything to do with the TV series or just simply riding on the "Nikita" moniker but it does look interesting.
I haven't watched a single episode so I don't know if this upcoming release by ZCWO has anything to do with the TV series or just simply riding on the "Nikita" moniker but it does look interesting.
L is for Lex Luthor
This is the Justice League animated Lex Luthor figure in business suit. He also came equipped with battle armor. This Lex Luthor was not at all identical in sculpt to any of the other figures.
Lex Luthor was a powerful businessman and criminal mastermind. He was widely considered to be one of Earth's most brilliant minds and one of Superman's greatest enemies.
Lex Luthor was a powerful businessman and criminal mastermind. He was widely considered to be one of Earth's most brilliant minds and one of Superman's greatest enemies.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Hot Toys TTM18 TrueType (Narrow Shoulder Version) PREVIEW
This is the new Hot Toys TTM18 - 1/6th scale TrueType Body - Caucasian Male (Narrow Shoulder Version). The head sculpt bears a strong resemblance to Wentworth Miller (he of "Prison Break" fame).
Earlier we had the TTM-16 which was the Hot Toys TrueType Caucasian Male (Advanced Version). That headsculpt looked a lot like Prison Break's Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell) - see my post HERE
Earlier we had the TTM-16 which was the Hot Toys TrueType Caucasian Male (Advanced Version). That headsculpt looked a lot like Prison Break's Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell) - see my post HERE
K is for Kyle Rayner
Kyle Rayner was an artist for the Daily Planet, recruited by the Green Lantern Corps after Abin Sur's death. The origin Rayner is given in the DC Animated Universe is a modified version of Hal Jordan's DC Comics origin. Kyle's original DC Animated Universe appearance was also more similar to Jordan than his own in the comics.
John Stewart was already a Green Lantern and reassigned to another space sector since Sector 2814 (which includes Earth) was already under the protection of Green Lantern Abin Sur. Following Abin Sur's demise at the hands of Sinestro, John would return to his home sector.
John Stewart was already a Green Lantern and reassigned to another space sector since Sector 2814 (which includes Earth) was already under the protection of Green Lantern Abin Sur. Following Abin Sur's demise at the hands of Sinestro, John would return to his home sector.
Horror of horrors (in 1:6 scale)
Presenting Shrunken Head Studios, a brand new 1:6 scale company with a focus on HORROR.
Catered towards horror hounds looking to spice up their collection, Shrunken Heads will be releasing a series of 1:6th scale horror accessories and environments called BITS & PIECES.
Catered towards horror hounds looking to spice up their collection, Shrunken Heads will be releasing a series of 1:6th scale horror accessories and environments called BITS & PIECES.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
J is for J'onn J'onzz
J'onn J'onzz was the last Martian and a founding member of the Justice League.
In the Justice League animated series, J'onn reached out telepathically to several heroes on Earth: Superman, John Stewart, Hawkgirl, Wonder Woman, and Flash after the Imperium began their invasion of Earth.
In the Justice League animated series, J'onn reached out telepathically to several heroes on Earth: Superman, John Stewart, Hawkgirl, Wonder Woman, and Flash after the Imperium began their invasion of Earth.
I is for Isley, Pamela aka Poison Ivy
Dr Pamela Isley was a botanist who led a secret life as the eco-terrorist Poison Ivy. Unlike most of Batman's rogues, Ivy had little interest in money or power, but instead was obsessed with preserving plant life, and taking revenge on those who she believed had harmed it.
This is Poison Ivy as seen in "Batman: The Animated Series". In the original series, Poison Ivy's abilities are somewhat more mundane than they are in the comics. In the comics, Ivy is a metahuman villainess who is herself part plant, able to communicate telepathically with plant life, and also able to synthesize chemicals from her body at will, either as deadly poisons or antidotes to same.
This is Poison Ivy as seen in "Batman: The Animated Series". In the original series, Poison Ivy's abilities are somewhat more mundane than they are in the comics. In the comics, Ivy is a metahuman villainess who is herself part plant, able to communicate telepathically with plant life, and also able to synthesize chemicals from her body at will, either as deadly poisons or antidotes to same.
Monday, April 11, 2011
H is for Hawkgirl
For the Justice League animated series, the well-known (but under-appreciated) superhero Aquaman was left out of the initial lineup and was replaced by Hawkgirl, the team's second female (along with Wonder Woman).
Shayera Hol, known on Earth as Hawkgirl, was a founding member of the Justice League, and a member of the Thanagarian military. She played a key role in the Thanagarian invasion on both sides.
Shayera Hol, known on Earth as Hawkgirl, was a founding member of the Justice League, and a member of the Thanagarian military. She played a key role in the Thanagarian invasion on both sides.
CrazyDummy: US Army Ranger Gunner In Afghanistan PREVIEW
This is a new figure from CrazyDummy and will be released soon: a 1/6 scale US Army Ranger 12-inch Gunner figure in Afghanistan. "Hoo-Ah!" I'm all over this one :) I just like the whole look and feel of it. For once, the uniform doesn't look too baggy or BIG for the figure, as has been the case for the Soldier Story modern military figures
Parts list:
Real-like 1:6 scale head sculpt and 12-inch male body, Multicam camouflage Gen2 combat suit and pants, Gen3 knee pads, belt and Asolo FSN 95 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
Parts list:
Real-like 1:6 scale head sculpt and 12-inch male body, Multicam camouflage Gen2 combat suit and pants, Gen3 knee pads, belt and Asolo FSN 95 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
G is for Green Lantern
When animator Bruce Timm took on the challenge of adapting the Justice League comic book and turning it into an animated sequel, the line-up of this new JLA adaptation was created with two things in mind: to pay tribute to the original line-up of the Justice League of America while also reflecting racial and cultural diversity.
John Stewart, an African-American Green Lantern who had previously worked with the League in the comics, was chosen rather than one of the better-known modern-era Green Lanterns (Hal Jordan, Guy Gardner or Kyle Rayner). In addition to his race, the producer felt Stewart's original abrasive personality would have more dramatic potential.
John Stewart, an African-American Green Lantern who had previously worked with the League in the comics, was chosen rather than one of the better-known modern-era Green Lanterns (Hal Jordan, Guy Gardner or Kyle Rayner). In addition to his race, the producer felt Stewart's original abrasive personality would have more dramatic potential.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
F is for Flash
In the first episode "Secret Origins" of the "Justice League" animated series which aired in 2001, Flash was one of the heroes (along with Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Wonder Woman) summoned to aid Superman, Batman, and J'onn J'onzz in defeating the Imperium invasion.
In the aftermath of that conflict, Superman suggested that the seven heroes band together to form the Justice League. Flash, appropriately enough, was the first to agree to Superman's proposal.
In the aftermath of that conflict, Superman suggested that the seven heroes band together to form the Justice League. Flash, appropriately enough, was the first to agree to Superman's proposal.
E is for Etrigan
Jason Blood was a world famous occultist. Centuries ago, Jason Blood was magically bonded with the demon Etrigan by Merlin after he had betrayed King Arthur during the age of Camelot. Jason now used his bond with Etrigan to fight off beings of evil magic.
In "The New Batman Adventures" episode titled "The Demon Within", Etrigan and Jason were separated by Klarion the Witch-Boy, and Batman had to reunite the two before Jason aged rapidly to death.
In "The New Batman Adventures" episode titled "The Demon Within", Etrigan and Jason were separated by Klarion the Witch-Boy, and Batman had to reunite the two before Jason aged rapidly to death.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
D is for Doctor Fate
Doctor Fate (along with his wife Inza) appears in the Justice League episode "The Terror Beyond" voiced by Oded Fehr while Inza is voiced by Jennifer Hale. Dr. Fate and Aquaman help Solomon Grundy escape from the authorities so they can enact an age-old spell to save this dimension from an invasion by the Old Ones, creatures based on the writings of H. P. Lovecraft.
The Justice League animated series Doctor Fate is apparently based on the Kent Nelson version. He was the son of American archaeologist Sven Nelson. When his father opened the tomb of the wizard Nabu, a poison gas was released which ultimately resulted in the death of Sven Nelson. Nabu took pity on the orphaned Kent. The wizard raised him and taught him the skills of a wizard, then bestowed upon him a mystical helm and amulet.
The Justice League animated series Doctor Fate is apparently based on the Kent Nelson version. He was the son of American archaeologist Sven Nelson. When his father opened the tomb of the wizard Nabu, a poison gas was released which ultimately resulted in the death of Sven Nelson. Nabu took pity on the orphaned Kent. The wizard raised him and taught him the skills of a wizard, then bestowed upon him a mystical helm and amulet.
C is for Clayface
This is the animated version of Clayface from "Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995)" and "The New Batman Adventures (1997–1999)".
Matt Hagen was a well-known movie actor who after being badly disfigured in an automobile accident, became addicted to a "miracle product" RenuYou which could restore Hagen's features within minutes as compared to years of plastic surgery.
Matt Hagen was a well-known movie actor who after being badly disfigured in an automobile accident, became addicted to a "miracle product" RenuYou which could restore Hagen's features within minutes as compared to years of plastic surgery.
Sideshow Collectibles 1:6 scale Commander Bly 12-inch figure Preview
Clone commander 5052, also known as Bly, was the leader of the Star Corps of clone troopers assigned to Jedi General Aayla Secura. He served with her on the exotic world of Felucia when he received Order 66. The executive command, originating from the Supreme Chancellor on Coruscant, identified Secura as a traitorous enemy of the state. Demonstrating his unerring loyalty to the Republic, Bly and his troopers raised their rifles and opened fire on their commanding officer, coldly killing the unsuspecting Jedi.
Bly was one of the first generation of clone commanders to be trained by the ARC trooper Alpha. The ARC troopers were a specially bred type of clone, more independent and with less docility tampering than the standard trooper of the line. Alpha's training program emphasized independence and outside-the-manual thinking.
Bly was one of the first generation of clone commanders to be trained by the ARC trooper Alpha. The ARC troopers were a specially bred type of clone, more independent and with less docility tampering than the standard trooper of the line. Alpha's training program emphasized independence and outside-the-manual thinking.
Friday, April 8, 2011
B is for Batman
B is for Batman! Who else? I almost named my toy blog "The Batcave" on account of the numerous Batman toys I have, because I am a BIG fan of the Bat and it was the toy figures from "Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995)" that got me hooked to toys at age 29 (in 1994) but went with "Toy Haven" instead because I also have so many other toys; and the rest, as they say, is history :)
This is the animated Batman figure from the Justice League animated television series (2001 to 2004), created by Bruce Timm and Paul Dini with two things in mind: to pay tribute to the original line-up of the Justice League of America while also reflecting racial and cultural diversity (more on the second in later posts).
This is the animated Batman figure from the Justice League animated television series (2001 to 2004), created by Bruce Timm and Paul Dini with two things in mind: to pay tribute to the original line-up of the Justice League of America while also reflecting racial and cultural diversity (more on the second in later posts).
New from DID: Paratrooper 3rd RPIMa Algeria 1961
This is DID's upcoming release, a 1/6 scale Parachutiste 3ème RPIMa Algérie 1961 (translated: Paratrooper 3rd RPIMa Algeria 1961) 12-inch military figure "Henri". Henri will be available in May 2011 (according to their website). This is DID's second French figure after their earlier release - a French Foreign Legion 2nd BEP military action figure as he was in 1954 Indochina (previewed HERE).
The French wear their beret on the opposite side to the U.S. and U.K. i.e. leaning to the left. He's armed with the MAT-49 and a greener shade French lizard camouflage para uniform. The MAT-49 was a submachine gun developed by French arms factory Manufacture Nationale d'Armes de Tulle (MAT) for use by the French Army. The MAT-49 saw widespread combat use during the First Indochina War and the Algerian War, as well as the 1956 Suez Crisis. The weapon found considerable favor with airborne and mechanized troops, who prized it for its firepower and compactness.
The French wear their beret on the opposite side to the U.S. and U.K. i.e. leaning to the left. He's armed with the MAT-49 and a greener shade French lizard camouflage para uniform. The MAT-49 was a submachine gun developed by French arms factory Manufacture Nationale d'Armes de Tulle (MAT) for use by the French Army. The MAT-49 saw widespread combat use during the First Indochina War and the Algerian War, as well as the 1956 Suez Crisis. The weapon found considerable favor with airborne and mechanized troops, who prized it for its firepower and compactness.