News

We still have plenty to report from the SDCC 2023 so here we would like to present to you parts 4, 5 and 6 of our feature:

In our fourth video about the San Diego Comic Con we already have an addition to our 1/6 summary: a Thranduil figure from Asmus, which definitely impressed us. On top, we are getting some insights directly from San Diego: our friend Patrick (@wonderbunk) is on site and doesn't just tell us about his own personal impressions but also shows us some new MOTU figures! You can watch it here:
https://youtu.be/2AP7T8IP-eE

The manufacturer Sideshow, who up until this point used to have the biggest presence at the Comic Con, was completely absent this year. However, they still took the SDCC as an opportunity to present their newest products in their own online event. In this video Sven and Mick tell you about all the highlights from the Sideshow Con:
https://youtu.be/o4-KXWTCa0I

In video no. 6 Sven and Mick chat about the cool sixth scale collectibles that Kaustic Plastik and Infinite are bringing fans of the cult series Twin Peaks. See for yourselves:
https://youtu.be/i-2jESNahOY

Have fun watching! And you can be excited for the next videos, which are already in our pipeline.

All good things come in threes - that's why we have another video on SDCC 2023 for you today ;)! This time it's about the two brands BLITZWAY and ECC (Elite Creature Collectibles).

Sven and Eva are not only digging through the novelties on the showfloor but also are admiring in our studio the wonderful, really breath-taking Elvis Presley statue by Blitzway which is our current product of the month. Don't be cruel, watching is cool:
https://youtu.be/OVJdSSFV5-k
 

In the second video about SDCC 2023, Tobi and Sven are checking out what's going at the booths of PCS (Premium Collectibles Studio) und HCG (Hollywood Collectors Group).

All statues collectors among you should definately tune in, because we have to admit that there were some really nice surprises along there: Morrigan, Candyman, Demogorgon, RoboCop ... geeeees!
https://youtu.be/5cYBX_z6Yw4
 

It's finally time: the San Diego Comic Con has opened its doors and of course we're back to collect news about the most exciting new collectibles, trailers and announcements and portion them out for you!

In our first "live on tape" video for SDCC 2023, Sven and Mick chat about the situation at this year's con, which, thanks to the strikes in Hollywood and the absence of well-known collectibles manufacturers, looks a little different than usual. Nevertheless, we don't want to miss the opportunity to present our highlights to you. Let's start with the 1/6 figures from threezero and Mondo!

So take a look - now on YouTube!
https://youtu.be/0uIw0WKBdPo

Two eagerly awaited, must-see films that couldn't be more antithetical are hitting theaters today: Christopher Nolan’s new film »Oppenheimer« sheds light on the role of the American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer in the development of the atomic bomb. A substantially lighter and definitely more colorful film is »Barbie« in which Greta Gerwig deals lovingly, satirically, philosophically and humorously with the icon, who leaves Barbieland to see the real world.

Following the well known principle that “opposites attract”, the publicity which was created around the theatrical release on the same day led to the phenomenon »Barbenheimer«, which playfully and joyfully combines both films in a large number of memes - to the delight of everyone involved as well, because the Barbenheimer hype generates a lot of attention for both movies:
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/barbenheimer/
https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/barbenheimer

We are super excited and will be watching both films as well (probably not in a double feature though, to give both enough after-effect time). We wish you a great cinematic summer!

Ouch - that's another piece of bad news for us MOTU fans! After years of uncertainty and back and forth, NETFLIX finally seemed ready to bring us the long-awaited MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE live-action film. Now the sad news just came through VARIETY: "Masters of the Universe Movie DEAD at Netflix"!

Even though at least 30 million dollars have allegedly already been pumped into the preliminary planning of this project, the streaming service has now decided to nip the whole thing in the bud. Again. This is clearly a bitter disappointment for fans, especially since Kyle Allen, a promising actor for the role of He-Man, and the Nee Brothers, two ambitious directors, had been hired.

Presumably the failure of the MOTU film at NETFLIX has to do with budgets. Of course, it's always mainly about money in the first place - which so often disenchants many dreams. In any case, we're wondering: "Who of all the studios has the power - and the honest desire - to really tackle the making of the new live-action film?!". Or shouldn't they just let it be and spare us fans further illusions?

Treat yourself to a nice filmation episode at the end of the day and let us know what you think about this topic. We are curious!

A few days ago, Paramount Pictures released the first teaser trailer for the biopic »Bob Marley: One Love«. You can watch it here:
https://youtu.be/gaGEmMCGLBU

The film accompanies the life and work of the reggae pioneer from his childhood in Jamaica to his rise as a global superstar. Its focus lies mainly on the creation of the album »Exodus«, which was made in exile in England after an assassination attempt on Marley and his family.

The lead role is played by Kingsley Ben-Adir (»Peaky Blinders«, »Secret Invasion«), Marleys Wife Rita is played by Lashana Lynch (»No Time to Die«, »Captain Marvel«). Some of the legendary singer's family members are involved in the project's production.

After several other musicians, whose stories were adapted over the last years, the king of reggae will now be paid filmic tribute as well. We are curious even if we'll have to patiently wait for the cinematic release in January 2024.

Wednesday evening (Californian time), the COMIC CON in San Diego will open its gates! Of course we are super excited for the event of the year - but the current situation in Hollywood begs the question: “Is it that time of the year?”

We would have loved to start our countdown for SDCC 2023 and present to you a schedule of different YouTube streams for our annual SDCC feature. However, it’s very tricky this year. Many cancellations from actors as well as studios due to SAG-AFTRA and WGA being on strike could really affect the usual Comic Con vibe, the reveals and premieres. On top of that, manufacturers like Sideshow and Weta Workshop are not going to attend either.

We are just as curious as you and we’ll have to wait and see. Of course we’re going to capture all new collectibles (even the ones from Sideshow’s own online-con), trailer drops and other news and bundle them in YouTube videos together with our colleague Mick, who’s going to travel to the S.P.A.C.E headquarters just for this. In our news-ticker and on social media we’ll keep you updated the next few days and over the weekend. Even if SDCC 2023 seems to not be getting off on the right foot, we are excited anyway and are looking forward to your reactions.

»Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One«, the seventh breathless adventure of Ethan Hunt aka Tom Cruise is currently hitting theaters. Say what you want about the actor, but when it comes to action, he's still number one.

The film was supposed to be in cinemas much earlier, but there were several delays due to Covid. Fortunately, one has to say, because the threat dealt with in the film is AI and the topic is on everyone's lips right now.

One can often read in reviews of the film that the series is getting better and better. In addition to a gripping story, the new film also offers a lot of spectacular action and breakneck stunts, which have become the trademark of the series - a point of honor that Tom Cruise does them himself! It's hard to believe that he just celebrated his 61st birthday on July 3rd. Of course, there is also CGI support and not everything is solved “in camera”, but the effects remain unobtrusive. The film also has just the right amount of humor. So far we haven't found a negative review, which makes us really want to see the film. We look forward to meeting Tom Cruise and his castmates Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames and Simon Pegg. Vanessa Kirby is back as well and Hayley Atwell joins the cast. Besides »John Wick«, »Mission: Impossible« is still the best that modern action blockbuster cinema has to offer.

A second »Ahsoka« trailer came out of nowhere yesterday, which increased our anticipation for the upcoming series even more. Here it is: 
https://youtu.be/J_1EXWNETiI

We can see space battles, laser sword fights, a fair amount of violence, many emblematic shots that emit great »Star Wars« vibes and provide some goosebump moments. And of course there’s a reunion with many beloved characters from the »Star Wars Rebels« series, which is why many Star Wars fans like to refer to the "Ahsoka" series as »Star Wars Rebels 5«. 

And finally, we’re getting a first appearance from Lars Mikkelsen as Grand Admiral Thrawn, with whom we finally have a serious Imperial villain in the game again!

On August 23, Disney+ will release the first two episodes of the series. We can hardly wait...

(… and are looking forward to all the new Hot Toys figures 😉)

Yesterday, Warner Bros. released the first trailer for »Wonka«. The film is based on the character of the same name from the children’s book classic »Charlie and the Chocolate Factory« by Roald Dahl which has already been adapted twice. In 1973, Gene Wilder played chocolatier Willy Wonka in Mel Stuart’s film. In 2005, Tim Burton took on directing and Johnny Depp played the eccentric candy manufacturer. In the prequel »Wonka« Timothée Chalamet puts on the top hat and plays the young Willy Wonka, who meets the Oompa-Loompas on a journey and takes up the fight with a powerful chocolate cartel. You can find the high-calorie trailer here:
https://youtu.be/otNh9bTjXWg

The trailer has an engaging, fairytale vibe. And director Paul King has already proven with the »Paddington« films that he has a knack for family entertainment. Of course, we also want to see Hugh Grant as an Oompa-Loompa. In short, this seems like the perfect movie for this holiday season. The theatrical release is Mid-December.

We are also very excited to see whether there will be Wonka collectibles under the Christmas tree. So, dear manufacturers, who will grab the license? That would be a treat!

Are you ready for a holiday in this heat already 🥵? If not, our July postcard might just change that. It exudes a real summer feeling ☀️!

This super-cute motif was captured by Sammi aka Pika (@pikachus_adventures_photograph) from New Mexico who brought Pikachu to a self-made beach for the occasion. Of course, ice-cold drinks and sufficient sun protection are a must. This makes sandcastle building extra fun 🏖️🌴!

If you're a fan of Pokémon, Pikachu or even just Toy Photography, be sure to check out Sammi’s account!

And if you want this great postcard, all you have to do is order a package from us in the month of July 📦. So get yourself a nice cool down and then hit the keys!

Yesterday, the first trailer for »Napoleon« by master director Ridley Scott with Joaquin Phoenix in the role of the pugnacious Corsican was released. His queen of hearts, Josephine, is played by Vanessa Kirby (to be seen very soon in »Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One«). Here you can get a first impression:
https://youtu.be/OAZWXUkrjPc

That looks very high-class and promises huge battle scenes. The trailer awakens real »Gladiator« vibes for us and we’re looking forward to an epochal epic that bursts the screen. Legendary director Scott is just the right man for it and exceptional talent Joaquin Phoenix is always worth a visit to the cinema.

Sony is expected to bring the film to theaters in November. Since »Napoleon« was co-produced by Apple TV+, it will be available in the streaming provider's program some time after.

In 2013, James Wan awoke the haunted house genre from its slumber with »The Conjuring« and showed that cleverly used jump scares can also give you goosebumps. The story based on "true events" about the demonologists Lorraine and Ed Warren, embodied by Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, then also established, as is so popular these days, an entire cinematic universe that now sees the release of its 9th movie with »The Nun II«. Here's the trailer to set the mood:
https://youtu.be/QF-oyCwaArU

In addition to good and passable films, the franchise offered cash grabs and a few releases at which well-versed friends of the horror genre will probably only turn up their noses contemptuously. »The Nun« had a nice atmosphere here and there, but it's considered one of the weaker films in the series so our expectations of the sequel aren't exactly euphoric either. But let’s wait and see - »Annabelle: Creation« was also significantly better than »Annabelle«...

Whatever one's take on the »Conjurverse«, one has to concede that this series has created some highly recognizable creatures. Above all, the possessed doll Annabelle and the demon Valak, better known as the eponymous nun.

Of course, both have also inspired a whole range of collectibles:
https://www.space-figuren.de/products_all.php?filter%5B2%5D%5B0%5D=688

Have they found their way into your horror hall of fame?

Whenever a manufacturer plans to release a new collectible, producing a prototype is one of the first steps. This serves to coordinate with the licensor and usually also opens the pre-order phase at the same time. Of course, the company assigns its best people to making the prototypes or hires talented and sought-after freelancers for modeling and painting. After the final agreement with the licensor, taking into account any requests for changes, mass production follows based on the prototype. In this process, quality control is an important building block towards the final collectible. The big and well-known players in this game take this very seriously and so the mass product usually comes pretty close to the prototypes.

But there are also disappointments every now and then, where we look at the end result and ask ourselves: How was it possible to just wave this through? Was there no final quality control? 

On the other hand, we have also seen final products look even better than the previously shown prototypes, which may be due to improvements made during the process.

Prime 1 Studio and Blitzway keep their promises and can actually say "What you see is what you get." So far we have only been dissatisfied once when the final hairstyle of the Jimi Hendrix 1:6 figure unfortunately did not do justice to the work shown previously.

It is always commendable when manufacturers also show pictures of the final product at the end of production. Two days ago, Blitzway posted 10 prototype-to-final comparison photos of the announced ELLEN RIPLEY »Aliens« 1/4 scale statue, which was made in cooperation with Prime 1, on Facebook. Have a look:
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=648124084005901&set=pcb.648124227339220

We think they are rightfully proud of their work and the pictures show that they needn't fear this comparison.

The images really make us want to see this fantastic statue of our favorite sci-fi heroine, due for release in the last quarter of the year. Here is the pre-order link: 
https://www.space-figuren.de/Movies/Alien/1-4-Scale-Ellen-Ripley-Ultimate-Premium-Masterline-Statue-Bonus-Version-Aliens::23402.html?language=en

Yesterday, Paramount Pictures released the second trailer for »Killers of the Flower Moon«. A new Martin Scorsese film is always an event. The impressive trailer also bears witness to this. We’ll go so far as to say this is going to be a modern classic!
https://youtu.be/nFoIg72KGIk

The trailer gets us excited right away. The epic camera work in every frame, a production design to die for and the grandiose set design bring a chapter of American history to life. The film is a true-crime story based on journalist David Grann's non-fiction book »Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI« about the murder of members of the Osage tribe under mysterious circumstances on the Osage County Reservation in Oklahoma in the 1920s after large oil deposits were discovered beneath their land.

This film unites some fantastic actors, led by Scorsese's regulars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, as well as the already acclaimed Lily Gladstone and an illustrious cast of great supporting actors, including Jesse Plemons, Brendan Fraser and John Lithgow.

We'll keep guessing and say this will be one of the big favorites at the next Oscars. We are really looking forward to the film, which of course should be seen on the big screen. The three and a half hour epic is expected to be released in October. The film which is co-produced by Apple TV+ will then be available in the streaming provider's program, where we will be happy to watch it a second and third time.

There was surprising news for fans of anime and DC Comics this week, as Warner Bros. Japan announced a new anime series together with WIT Studio at the Anime Expo in LA: »Suicide Squad ISEKAI«! No specific plot details have been announced yet, but we can look forward to seeing the popular DC villains catapulted into an unknown fantasy world. The first teaser from DC looks really promising and the character design of Harley Quinn and the Joker is definitely convincing. The release date is not yet known but we are already excited!
https://youtu.be/XSaBR58f7I0

Other animation studios also used the Anime Expo in Los Angeles as an opportunity to announce new releases. MAPPA showed the official trailer for the last season’s finale of »Attack on Titan« in a joint panel with Crunchyroll. The final season was split into four parts, the first of which aired in 2020 and the third in March of this year. Now, in the fall, the fourth part entitled »Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2« will complete the series after a decade. You can watch the epic trailer here:
https://youtu.be/8pEg8NrdL_Y

When we think of brawny action heroes of the 80s, the two big competitors, Arni and Sly, naturally come to mind.

In 1982 they competed against each other for the first time with »Conan the Barbarian« vs. »First Blood«. Both are now of retirement age. Sylvester Stallone, born in New York City in 1946, and the Austrian ex-bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger, born in 1947, have a lot in common recently besides muscles and action films. Lately both made their debut as the lead actors in a series - Sly with »Tulsa King« on Paramount+ and Arni in »Fubar« on Netflix where a three-part Schwarzenegger documentary started streaming last month as well. Now the streaming provider is teasing a retrospective documentary about Stallone and his career. You can get a first impression here:
https://youtu.be/5KJw3NRHMBs

Until the release, you will need some patience though, because the film won't be out until November. We are looking forward to it...

What? You don't remember Elvis Presley's »Aloha from Hawaii« concert? Well, to be fair, it was 50 years ago and most of us weren't even planned back then. But luckily we have Blitzway ...

... A manufacturer that takes its cultural education mission seriously and has brought us several pop culture icons in the form of collectibles. With the Elvis Aaron Presley Superb Hybrid statue in 1:4 scale, Blitzway pays homage to the King of Rock'n'Roll and shows him exactly as he stood on stage in 1973 in the Honolulu International Center Arena. The 1-hour concert was broadcast live via satellite to over 40 countries around the globe, which back then was a media sensation never seen before.

Once again, Blitzway makes history you can touch with great attention to detail. Reason enough for us to pick this statue as our Product of the Month July 2023.

Elvis wears his tailored »Aloha from Hawaii« American Eagle jumpsuit (with a flower necklace if you like) and comes with two heads: the authentic Elvis look from 1973 and a younger look if you want your Elvis to be even more hunky.

So It's Now or Never, Don't Be Cruel and jump into your Blue Suede Shoes because We can't help falling in Love (with this statue)!

Indiana Jones has been with us for most of our lives. George Lucas and Steven Spielberg took us on a journey of adventure and gave us many unforgettable hours. Harrison Ford in the title role as the archaeologist with fedora, leather jacket and whip became one of the great icons of cinema. It is said that some archaeological faculties even recorded an increase in enrollments. Whenever we sit together and talk about the films, we get excited. That’s why we’ve already had this day marked in our calendars for a long time, because »Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny« hits theaters today!

Harrison Ford is now 80 years old and the film is definitely his last Indiana Jones adventure. Composer John Williams delivers his congenial soundtrack for the last time as well. Despite all the anticipation for the film and the trust that we have in director James Mangold (»Walk the Line«, »Logan«), we have to admit that we were actually a bit scared. The fourth part of the series from 2008 had disappointed us at the time. Did we really need another Indiana Jones movie? And would this be a worthy farewell? 

The critics are largely unanimous: the film doesn't live up to the first three parts, but it offers good entertainment in addition to the inevitable nostalgia and you will definitely leave the cinema with a smile on your face. We are excited!

Just in time for the theatrical release, Hot Toys presents Indiana Jones as a 1:6 figure in a regular and a deluxe version with a diorama base that will be available for pre-order in the shop soon.