|
|
Packaging - ***
Beast is housed in a typical Ultimate Bust packaging. The packaging has plenty of attractive pictures of the product, as well as a write-up of the character. The side of the box also has an image of how Beast looks like in the Ultimate X-Men comic. As with
packaging of most superheroes statues, the box does not come with a window for viewing the product, but one hardly display a bust in-package, so that isn’t a great problem for me.
Beast also has a certificate of authentication, which is a norm in the line.
Sculpting - **1/2
The sculpt work on Beast is not exactly world class. His pose is that of him leaning forward, with his hands touching the ground. This is a tricky pose to have, because it tends to give the product a very nice front view, but causes it to look odd at other angles. I also find the over-emphasis on his muscles a turn-off. This is a common issue I encounter with the Ultimate Busts line – either too much muscles on male characters, or too much boobs on female ones.
The details on Beast are quite nicely crafted. We see the standard furry details being included on his body, a nice facial expression, as well as an awesome X-Men logo base. Giving Beast his glasses is a nice touch which ties in with the comic. However, the shades appear to stick out too much at certain angles, which once again reduce his display value.
Paint - ***1/2
The paint application on Beast is excellent. This is not an easy product to paint, due to the furry details on him. But the paint work is pretty consistent overall, with no obvious over-lapping across the different areas. There are different shades of blue on Beast to define the details on him, which is nice.
A tint of purple was also given to his hair to make him look more stylish, although the washed effect on his hair left much to be desired. I’m also baffled by the decision to paint his shades pink. These are the reasons why he didn’t get a full score in this area.
Value - **1/2
The Ultimate Beast bust retails for $50, which is a tad too expensive in my opinion. However, Beast is also bigger in size than most of his counterparts in the line, which may justify higher price range. I’d have given a higher score here if he doesn’t look so “flattened” at alternate angles.
Overall - **1/2
Beast is not the most accomplished product in the Ultimate Bust series. As statues and busts cannot be “played with” like action figures, display value for them are a major consideration for purchase. The main issue with Beast lies with his aesthetics, and he simply he doesn’t look good enough apart from viewing him from the front. Strictly for the completist only.Where to Buy:
The Ultimate Beast bust is available at most comics shops. On-line
options: - Alter Ego Comics
has the Ultimate Beast for $40, a very reasonable price.
|
