Packaging - ***1/2
I really like the smaller
blister created for the series. It makes for a far easier collecting
experience than most other toy lines. The packaging remains identical
to its Asian counterpart, and I'm really glad they did so. The design
isn't the brightest or most colorful, but what I like about it is that what
you see is what you get. The card remains small with a large bubble
allowing you to clearly view the figure and its accessories.
The front of each card is identical, with only a sticker on the front of the
bubble telling you what character you're getting and from what movie he/she
appeared. The back of the card features a photo of the animated
version along with a small blurb describing the characters (in Japanese,
unfortunately). The back also details which figures are in the current
series, as well as listing the figures coming in the next batch. Keep
in mind that this won't apply to US collectors since these figures have
already been released in Asia.
The packaging is simple but it really does a great job. Now all you
need is a translator and you're all set.
Sculpting - ****
I said it before, these sculpts are the best I have seen in any Disney
figure. Each character's likeness is captured so brilliantly it's as
if the figure stepped right out of the animated films.
There was no detail that wasn't included in each character. There's
usually a figure in every wave that isn't as well done as the others, but
that simply isn't the case in Set B. All of the characters presented
here are amazing.
The only one that suffers a tiny bit is Jafar for being on the short side
(but then again, Woody is on the tall side isn't he?). The top sculpts
are definitely Woody and Pooh bear. I can't say enough how great each
of these figures are.
Paint - *** ½
The paint ops incredible in this set. All of the colors used aren't
dull but rather vivid with rich tones, which makes for a fantastic looking
bunch. I don't want to make any jokes here, but the detail on Woody is
terrific. From the small amount of blush on his cheeks to the line
work on his shirt, Woody is one figure NOT to pass up on. The other
figures don't have the same level of detail, but keep in mind that the rest
are two-dimensional characters.
Articulation - ***
The first set received a slightly lower grade thanks in part to The Queen
and Dumbo (with zero), but this set overall is pretty decent.
Minnie Mouse is essentially a well sculpted bendie figure with 5 limbs to
flex and contort (the fifth being the tail). Snow White has a decent 5
points of articulation as well and Winnie the Pooh is alright with 4.
The rest don't fare as well. Woody and Ariel both have 3 points of
articulation (arms and neck) but Jafar sadly only has 2 points for each arm.
The Disney Magical Collection is really meant for display, so a lot of the
articulation is only done to compliment the sculpt but it would be nice to
see a little bit more on characters such as Jafar.
Accessories - ***
While the sculpts are great, the accessories add just a small touch of
detail to make these figures really worth collecting. For
starters, each figure comes with its' own stand for display. Nice
touch, though most of these figures do just fine on their own.
In the Oscar Nominated Short, Runaway Brain, Minnie Mouse is seen checking
out some new swimwear for a "supposed" trip to Hawaii. Since
this version of Minnie is specifically from that cartoon, that's exactly
what she comes with. I think Mickey may prefer her 'normal' clothes
better don't you think?
The ever popular Winnie the Pooh comes with some pretty decent accessories
for such a large figure. Pooh is never anywhere if there's no Honey
around, which is why a large pot accessory is included. As an extra
touch, there's even a TINY bee. Most toy companies wouldn't even
bother with an accessory that small, so I give Tomy a LOT of credit here.
It's also painted!
Snow White doesn't come with too much, but a well painted bird accessory
that fits in her hand is good enough as any!
Ariel doesn't come with any of her friends, but she DOES get a nicely
sculpted (and painted) base for her to be placed on.
Jafar, who was disappointing in the articulation department disappoints
again! All that is included is his staff. Where's Iago??
There were plenty of scenes in both Toy Story movies where Woody doesn't
wear his hat, so yes, the hat is removable! Another great accessory is
a unique toy army soldier. You can't get better than that!
Value - ***
These figures should be selling for about $6-7 a piece and for that, I think
it's fair. A toyline with sculpts as great as these and with as many
characters is always something to cheer about. If you pay import
prices of $8-10, then you can take away a half star.
Overall - ****
If you were wishy washy on the first set of Disney figures, Set B should
be the set that hooks you in. The sculpts are 98% dead on with great
paint application and well thought out accessories. Articulation is
lacking on a few figures but these are really meant for display anyway.
This toyline has been extremely fun to collect and it looks even better out
of the package. You can't find better detailed Disney figures anywhere
else!
Where to Buy -
Media Play and Sam Goody stores are selling them for about seven bucks
each. On-line:
- Beans
Toys has a great price of just $30 for set A and $33 for set C, but are
sold out of Set B right now!
About the Reviewer:
Coheteboy is an avid toy collector and now confirmed Disney nut. He
also writes for Galactic Hunter.
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