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Packaging - ***
The color has that old west tin type sepia tone feel. and the photos
show off both Premium Format statues. Oddly, both PF's are on the box
though, with some text on both characters - I'm assuming I'll be
getting the same box again with Wyatt. That's the first time I ever
remember them double dipping on a package like this.
The interior tray is one of the
tricky ones as well, with the base packed on the side. You can
certainly put things back after the fact, but you'll want to be careful
when you do, since once the tape is cut it's quite easy for the heavy
base to fall out.
Sculpting - ***1/2
The sculptor working on Doc Holliday (unlike Blackbeard) had the
advantage of actual
photos to work from, and they managed to capture his
appearance quite well. It is worth noting though that the most famous
photo of him, referenced in that link above, may not be him, and there
has been some debate about it's validity.
The huge 'stache, large bushy
eyebrows, thin nose, and square jaw looks just about right (assuming
the best known photo is actually him), and the
expression implies a thoughtful consideration of your obvious fate.
There are earlier photos of Doc with a soul patch to go along with the
moustache, and it was a popular addition at the time.
I also like the look of the
slender body, where the internal proportions are accurate. The stance
is relaxed but deadly - the perfect combination for a killer like Doc.
This pose also reminds me very much of the Kilmer character, when he
hid a revolver behind his back out on the street of Tombstone. Since
the head comes as a separate piece, wouldn't it be cool if Sideshow
gave us a second head later on of Kilmer? Hey, I can dream, can't I?
The only thing pulling this
score down slightly is the ET fingers. I don't know why it's so
difficult for sculptors to get the proportions on human fingers
correct, but once again these are slightly too long. It's true on both
the hand holding the butt, as well as the hands holding the semi-hidden
weapons.
The only other change that I
would have liked to see would have been a slight alteration to the tilt
of
the arm and hand, so that the gun (and knife) would be a little bit
more concealed behind his back when looking at him from straight on.
I'm
not deducting from the score for this issue, but it's an aesthetic
change that would have made me happy.
Paint - ***
The work on the skin is excellent, and the hair is better than average.
The weapons are good, although the small cartridges are a little
sloppy. Nothing major there, considering how small they are and how
they are hidden within the cartridge belt.
The issue that pulls the score
down is the bleed into the steely blue eyes. It hurts the overall
quality of the paint work, and takes a little away from his deadly
stare.
Articulation - Bupkis
No, no articulation. Not supposed to be any, so I won't be deducting
anything from my overall, but it's worth mentioning in case you thought
the neck might turn, etc.
Accessories - ***1/2
Most statues don't have 'accessories', but this one certainly does.
First, the exclusive has the
extra knife hand, and it's a good addition. In fact, it's good enough
that I'm still unsure as to which one I'll use for long term display.
The hands swap easily enough,
and the magnetic attachment is very tight. That's true with the head as
well, which comes as a separate piece from the body.
The holstered gun is a separate
item as well, and fits perfectly in the holster. I love the leather
holster and belt, both of which are very realistic.
They've also included a ton of
cartridges, all made of metal. These slip into the appropriate loops on
the gun belt, and there's just enough to fill 'er up.
Outfit - ****
Another outstanding PF outfit, and this type of character is the
perfect stage for the mixed media format to shine. The clothing is
perfectly tailored and cut for this specific solid body and specific
pose, and everything fits perfectly.
The clothing is also made from
extremely high quality material. The vest is beautiful, with realistic
buttons and a metal watch chain. The cravat (tie) has a stickpin that
he was very well known for wearing, and the shirt collar is stiff
plastic. He even has gold cuff links! This figure could never be done
in
full resin or plastic and look this good.
Value - ***
Sideshow's Premium Format statues are certainly 'premium', particularly
when it comes to price. We're starting to see more and more of them run
close to $400, as was the case with Blackbeard. This guy is around $275
at Sideshow, and the regular version is closer to $250 at some sites.
Things to Watch Out For -
Not a thing!
Overall - ***1/2
I'm very happy with this version of the famous gunfighter, and he (with
his partner) will take a place of honor on my shelves. He might not be
the movie version, but this is one of those times when the historically
accurate appearance works just as well - if not better.
I must admit though that by
himself he's not nearly as good as he will be when paired with
Earp. As in life, these two men need to stand together to be at their
best.
Score Recap:
Packaging - ***
Sculpting - ***1/2
Paint - ***
Articulation - Bupkis
Accessories - ***1/2
Outfit - ****
Value - ***
Overall - ***1/2
Where to Buy -
Online options include these site sponsors:
- you can still get on the wait
list for both the regular
version and the exclusive
at Sideshow's website.
-
Urban Collector
has him for
$244, but that's the regular edition of course.
-
Big Bad Toy Store
has him listed at $260, again the regular edition.
- Forbidden
Planet has the regular for 245 GBP.
- or you can search ebay.
Related
Links -
Other reviews that are related include:
- if you like historical
figures, check out the Blackbeard
PF as well.
- Many years ago, Sideshow did a
series of 12" figures based on historical western characters (including
Wyatt and Doc) that was the start of Six
Gun Legends.
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