ARCHIVE FOR FEB - MAY 2001
Updates for 5-10
Recently I have seen a few shining examples of a job well done and I just had to say something about it. How many times do you always do the same thing and say you'll have to do this or that, and never end up making good on it. Well, these are examples so impressive, I could not let this opportunity go by.
Let's start with last weekend's record shattering First summer film of 2001,
The Mummy Returns.
This thank you goes out to Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, Arnold Vosloo, Oded Fehr, John Hannah, Patricia Velasquez, and, most importantly, Writer/Director Stephen Sommers. When I first saw The Mummy, 2 years ago, I was amazed to see that the Adventure film still existed. It totally took me by surprise and allowed me to have more fun watching a movie than I had since I was a kid. Now comes the follow up, usually feared by all, but Sommers fears nothing, because he is a man, who is smart and talented enough to know his characters and write a compelling adventure for them without putting them through the exact same thing through another film. Sure you could pick at elements of the end, but when all is said and done, it is still the rebirth of the perfect Summer Movie. Fun, Exciting, and Well worth the price of a ticket! Good job Mr. Sommers, cast, and Universal Studios.
Now I want to shine the spotlight on a great group of guys at the X-Files, who really took time out to Honor and appreciate the fans, and one in particular. This past Sunday's show featured a new character to the X-files; Agent Layla Harrison. Agent Harrison was an eager young agent from accounting who had admired Mulder and Scully's adventures from her desk throughout the years.
What most people don't know is that Agent Layla Harrison was named for and based
upon X-Phile Layla Harrison. A big presence in the X-Files fan community who
sadly died from Melanoma recently.
Lastly, since this is a toy site after all, I want to give McFarlane toys a big pat on the back for really coming through on their first major license. The movie Shrek doesn't come out for another week, but if you have been fortunate enough to see ANY of the toys in this line, you just can't wait. To put it simply, these things are BEAUTIFUL and they Rock as well! In technical aspects, McFarlane's Design and paint applications have never been better, and the planning delivers the most product, with minimal repetition. There is everything from Beanies to Standard action, to Deluxe talking plushes, and they are all truly excellent. Take your loved ones to see the movie next week, and then go and by BOTH of you a toy, you are bound to find something for someone of any age! Way to go McToys! -Russ37
Updates for 5-08 In keeping with the McFarlane tradition, we discovered recently that McFarlane will be releasing the T-1000 Movie maniac in 2 separate forms. One will be the full body figure with the impact wound in the head, and the other will be the blown apart T-1000 from the end of the film. It was originally thought that the figure would come with interchangeable torsos, it will now be 2 separate figures. A similar example can bee seen in the recently released SHREK movie figures. The normal Shrek Action figure can be found with a Grinning face or a normal face. -Russ37 Updates for 4-20
Well, we said we would keep you updated, now comes word from Mcfarlane toy's that the Jason X figure will be replaced by a 7 inch version of the awesome 18 inch Freddy Krueger!, this is fantastic news for all those like myself, who have complained of the poor quality of the series 1 Freddy. Read it all for your self at Spawn.com news Then head on over to the message board and discuss this news, whether you think it be good or bad. -Badism Updates for 4-19
New line Cinema has removed the Jason X film from it's 2001 release schedule...It is yet unclear how this will effect the figure and or MM4. We will keep you updated. -Badism Updates for 4-08
Well here we are, back in full force once again and totally up and running. First we would like to say thanks to all the fans who stuck with us during the downtime. Secondly, we would like to thank Wolfgrin and the good folks at SpawnCentral.com for being our new host. SpawnCentral is a great site and since our sites naturally compliment each other, we really believe that together we will be one of the web's best sources for all McFarlane toys. Who knows where the road goes we hope there is nothing but good things ahead for you and us both. Thanks for reading! -Russ37
With all the trouble with servers and getting things up and running again, we have missed a few small news bytes that some fans will be interested in. First, although the good folks on the message board have already been discussing it, Series 2 of the Silent Screamers is now hitting stores, and namely Electronics Boutique. I meant to get this up on the page when I saw that they were shipping out to the stores but never got time. We will have scans soon. You can also look forward to the new Buffy and Silent Screamers sections of the page, not only including figures, but Cars and other assorted collectibles. And Speaking of cars, we will have scans of the Leatherface and Truck to compliment the Jason and Freddy released by Matchbox Toys a year or so back. So keep it here for some great new stuff to come very soon! -Russ37
Updates for 4-02
Well, for the benefit of those who thought we were lost forever and new readers who think we somehow just missed a month of news, I am proud to say the site is finally back online! We had some server problems and although we aren't completely operating at 100%, we are at least going to be able to keep bringing you news, pics, and info on the upcoming lines. The online catalog will return in time. We are currently looking for a new and preferably inexpensive server, or a generous host, whichever comes first. In the meantime though, we will keep the updates coming. Thanks for your patience and sorry for the delay. -Russ37 Updates for 3-02
For the collector who like the different sort of treasure now and then , there are a big amount of new die cast metal cars now available in most Toy and collectable stores. First, from the previously covered Matchbox line that featured Jason and Freddy, I was surprised to see a Leatherface and truck in KB Toys the other day. Even more pleasing is the fact that they were marked down to $2.99. This should hold true at all KB and other affiliated stores. Also included in the line were Ace Ventura, Rocky, Bluto from Animal House, and a few others. Secondly is the newly released line of Johnny Lightning Cars based on the vehicles of Buffy the Vampire slayer and Angel. So Far I have managed to grab Angel's Plymouth, Xander's Chevy, and Spike's Desoto and all are VERY well done. I found mine at Electronics Boutique, but check around because they should be everywhere. We will have scans up soon. -Russ 37 Updates for 3-01
Want to pre-order reservoir dogs or Silent Screamers: Reel Masters?, then head on over to Entertainment Earth. They also have living dead dolls for those that are interested in that sort of thing. -Badism Updates for 2-23
While checking to see what was new in the coming soon list today, I discovered that almost all the Toy Fair announced lines, including Series 4, the 18 inchers, and Tortured Souls, were already available for reservation at Electronics Boutique stores. The dates they had on Series 4 were Sept for the figures and Oct for the 18's. Prices were still at $9.99 for figures and $29.99 for 18's. More dates and info as it becomes available.-Russ 37 Updates for 2-22
The makers of the reservoir dogs and silent screamers figures, and a company that I happen to be very impressed with now has their official site online. Check it out here and take a look at all their great products for 2001. -badism Updates for 2-21
Well this is something that I pretty much just stumbled across, but it appears that Sideshow have rather quietly released an Exclusive Translucent variant of their popular, and widely sold out, Creature From The Black Lagoon figure. The Creature is pretty damn unique looking with it's bright translucent green sculpt and like the previous version of this figure comes with 14 points of articulation, and is in an 8" scale. To take a look at The Creature in all of it's bright green glory for yourself hit the following Link. - Severen. Updates for 2-20
Last week a couple of potentially interesting tidbits slipped out as Clive Barker and Todd McFarlane talked about their collaboration while attending the launch of the upcoming Tortured Souls line. The official Spawn.com website quoted Clive Barker as saying "We're really looking forward to pursuing a film featuring these (Tortured Souls) characters, ideally that will work out." The article also goes on to say that in the future fans can "look for more collaborations between Todd and Clive in the form of more action figures, and possibly (the affore mentioned) movie". If what we've seen of the Tortured Souls line is any indication then this is very cool news indeed, and you can read the whole report by clicking the link above. - Severen. Updates for 2-19
There are a couple of sweet exclusives at your local Media Play, Sam Goody, Suncoast, and/or On Cue stores. N2 toys has made the entire series 2 of the Matrix, including the Agent Smith vs. Neo 2 pack, into one colossal boxed set. They also have the Neo/Trinity 12 inch figures boxed together in an exclusive set. Prices will vary by store, but at my local Media Play the 12 inchers were a reasonable $29.99 and the Boxed set was a steal at $49.99. Knock out series 2 in one blow and save money in the process.-Russ37
Sure were experimenting in covering other lines so we thought we'd take the time to let you know that the Series 3 of the Simpsons figures are now in stores. The figures are evenly packed and the line consists of Milhouse, Otto, Moe, Nelson, Sunday Homer, and Kamp Krusty Bart.-Russ 37
If you can find them, many stores are now clearing out their supply of Silent Screamers and Little Nicky figures. within the newt few months you will probably be able to find them for 30 to 70% off. As of right now check out Media Play and other musicland stores and KBTOYS.COM.-Russ 37 Updates for 2-18
A few weeks ago I reported on the Message Board. about another Edward Scissorhands figure showing up in Japanese toy stores. Made by Yellow submarine toys, he is slightly less detailed then the McFarlane version and in my humble opinion his likeness is not as accurate. If you would like to judge for yourself then click on over to Figures.com. to see a carded pic that has turned up. -Badism
Once again courtesy of Figures.com comes the first pics of series 3 of N2's Matrix line, and while it can certainly be argued that N2 definitely know how to milk every last drop out of this license a couple of them don't look too bad judging by these pics, although you've really got to ask yourself just how much we really need all of these secondary and minor characters. Judge for yourself by clicking the link above, and make your own thoughts known one way or the other over on the Message Board. - Severen.
Figures.com has released prototype pictures of N2 Toys forthcoming 5Th Element action figure line as part of the sites ongoing Toy Fair coverage. They're still in pretty raw shape and haven't been painted yet so it's hard to tell yet just which way these things will go likeness and detail wise, but hopefully N2 will mange to get their act together on this one. Click the above link to take a look at them for yourself. - Severen.
Operations Manager of McFarlane's Design Group and Moderator on the Spawn.com Toy Board Steve Hamady recently had this to say when asked about N2 attaining the Gladiator license for a series of 7 and 12 inch figures: "Maximus! Don't hold your breath...No license has been issued for the Gladiator. That's right from the horses mouth, nuff said." So are N2 being premature in their claims or is it just a case of sour grapes? I guess we'll just have to wait and see what develops, but maybe there's still (small) hope for a McFarlane Gladiator figure after all. Then again, maybe not. - Severen.
Palisades Marketing brings us these babies, Series 1 has Mr. Orange, Mr. Blond and incredibly poor old Marvin Nash complete with chair and missing ear. Series 2 will follow with Mr. Pink and Mr. White. Click here. to check them out. Thanks to Action Figure Collecting. -Badism
For all you Silent Screamer and Buffy fans out there Sideshow Toys has just posted pics of their new lines on their official site, and the first pics of the Universal Monsters series V look especially nice. Anyway if you're a fan then hop on over to Sideshow Toys.com and take a look for yourself. And as always be sure to tell us all what you think about the new lines over on the Message Board. - Severen.
The first pictures of Mezco's toys Silent Screamers series 2 are on line, follow this handy link to see them for yourself. Action-Figure.com. And then feel free to head over to our great Message Board to discuss your thoughts on them. -Badism
Click Here. to see the first close up pics. Thanks to Action-figure.com. -Badism
21st Century toys is planning on releasing a 12" Steve McQueen Action figure complete with motorcycle from the film The Great Escape, We will keep you updated on further developments. -Badism
Last year we showed you the Mini Blair witch figures. Now Kubrick toys has added to the set with Blair witch 2 book of shadows micro figures, Click here . and scroll down to the pics. Thanks to Randy of "Ask Randy" for the pictures. -Badism
Well, the time has come and the pics are HERE! McFarlane has posted their 2001 Catalog on their website for all to see, so if you want the first look at Movie Maniacs Series 4, Tortured Souls, and other great lines from McFarlane, just CLICK HERE. After you're done, don't forget to visit the Discussion Board to discuss your thoughts with other fans.-Russ 37
Today marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of the year, Toy Fair 2001, where all the Toy Companies set up shop to flaunt their products for the coming year. We will be bringing you all the news, pics and links for your first look at the Series 4 Movie Maniacs, as well as the new offerings from McFarlane, Mezco, N2, Sideshow, and just about anyone else who has something interesting we think you may want to see, so check back with us daily and see what's new for this year, and more importantly, to see just how Movie Maniacs Series 4 measures up.
Badism reports that a couple of different Highlander lines are being planned. Little is known so far, but apparently there will be a line of 12 Inch figures and regular action figures to be offered through Previews. The lineup so far consists of Conner McLeod, Duncan McLeod and Juan Ramirez...What's this...a Sean Connery figure? THE DAY IS OURS! More on this as we hear it.
Make sure you head out to a theater near you this weekend and check out the much debated sequel to the Academy Award winning "The Silence of the Lambs". Anthony Hopkins is back in his most memorable role ever as Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The Book was controversial, and the film is sure to be to, so after you check it out, be sure to visit the Discussion Board to Discuss the film. Meanwhile, check out the film's website HERE.
The Waterboy wrote in today to tell us that Spawn Board Member Anguswolf, posted some scans from the new Tomart's Action figure Digest, of the new Clive Barker line "Tortured Souls". The line is very reminiscent of Barkers work and we think the pics speak for themselves so CLICK HERE to check them out, and again, thanks to Anguswolf and Waterboy for the news.
I recently saw the Series 2 Matrix figures in Babbages and they were somewhat impressive. The sculpting was good and each now comes with a Stand and Matrix Background. The Series consists of Trinity in Jump Mode, Mr. Anderson (Neo) from the torture and bugging scene, Tank with Gun, and the Sentry Robot which was the most impressive of the lot. They were going for $9.99. Also, EB has the Series 2 Buffy the Vampire Slayer figures for $9.99. The first part of the line consists of Buffy, Giles and Oz. The sculpting is better this time around and the figures are larger and have more accessories, but the paint leaves much do be desired and seriously takes away from the figures. Also, the logo on Oz's Shirt looks like a Sticker just placed on there. They do look good though and Hardcore fans should be happy to see them after the long wait. Other figures in the line such as Xander, Cordelia, Spike and Variations on them all, will be available soon.
The Boxed Set for Series 4 will be a Diorama from JAWS which will feature Jaws, the Boat and Quint. You 2 new additions to the 18 inch Movie Maniacs line will be the brothers of the saw, Leatherface and the much demanded Ash. Here's hoping for a new Head Sculpt. We originally reported the lineup in the wee hours of the morning after sitting on a report from source, Ash X, for a couple of weeks. The Staff of Moviemaniacs.net didn't want to jeopardize or interfere with a contest being held by McFarlane Toys, so we decided to wait until just before the end of the contest. Since it was announced the contest would end on Monday, we posted the info last night, and by the time we checked in today, all was confirmed by McFarlane. Just remember who, for the 3rd year in a row, brought it to you first. Be sure to Check out SPAWN.COM for further details and pics when McFarlane reveals their 2001 Catalog on the website on Feb 11th. Until then, Feel Free to Discuss this Report on the Moviemaniacs.net Discussion Board.
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