The Bunny Collection

Is there someone in there....................Why do you wear that stupid bunny suit............I bet with those long ears you can hear the voices....................Be careful, you're handling a VIP, after all...............................I don't have regrets about anythin' anymore...................It'd be bad if Yoko got even stupider............................I know, you can be strong, too..............Put....the.....bunny....back.....in.....the box......What's the matter, snuggle-bunny, finding out the world isn't all sunshine and rainbows?

Click the red link, you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes.........

The Four or More Collection

I mentioned in The Trilogies Collection that film series that had gone past three entries were excluded from being listed therein, so Four or More was born. Below the cut you'll find links to film series that probably should've ended sooner and, in some rare cases, ones that ended too soon.
If there was an existing Collection post with links to all relevant films in a particular series, I've linked directly to it instead because it made my life easier... and making my life easier is my new favourite pastime.

NOTE: If text is coloured pink, it means no review currently exists for it.

The Viable Options Collection

Here on the Nut Blogs, we’ve covered plenty of Remakes, Reboots, and Reenvisionings. We’ve even tackled our fair share of adaptations (1, 2, 3, 4). As rare as it is for any of those to actually improve on their original works, it could be argued that the chances of them being equally worthwhile are even more astronomical. While these pairs (or, in a few cases, trios) may not share the exact same scores, they are considered to be comparable in quality and veritas by at least one of our authors. They are the narratives and experiences for which multiple incarnations deservedly stand side-by-side on our shelves.

_____________________

Mickey's Christmas Carol

Scrooged

The Muppet Christmas Carol
_____________________

Kamen Rider Blade

Kamen Rider Blade: The Movie — Missing Ace
_____________________

Brimstone and Treacle (1976)

Brimstone and Treacle (1982)
_____________________

Castlevania II: Simon's Quest

Worlds of Power: Castlevania II — Simon's Quest

_____________________

Constantine (film)

Constantine (game)

_____________________

Dune (film)

Frank Herbert's Dune (TV Mini-Series)

_____________________

The Fall of the House of Usher (1928)

The Fall of the House of Usher (1960)

_____________________

Fist of Fury

Fist of Legend

_____________________

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2009)

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

_____________________

La Jetée

12 Monkeys

_____________________

Kamen Rider Kiva

Kamen Rider Kiva: The Movie — King of Hell's Castle

_____________________

The Last Man on Earth

The Omega Man

_____________________

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

_____________________

The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask

The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D

_____________________

Mega Man X

Maverick Hunter X

_____________________

Piranha (1978)

Piranha (2010)

_____________________

Seven Samurai

The Magnificent Seven

_____________________

The Shining (novel)

The Shining (film)

Stephen King's The Shining (TV Mini-Series)

_____________________

Silent Hill — Harry Mason

Silent Hill — Rose Da Silva

Silent Hill: Shattered Memories

_____________________

True Grit (1969)

True Grit (2010)

_____________________

Yojimbo

A Fistful of Dollars

The First Nut is the Deepest - Music Version

Following on from my The First Nut is the Deepest - Film Version post, this time it's Music. There's no 'Favourites' list on Nut Suite to choose from, so I engineered an alternative. Narrowing music down to a Top 10 would be an impossible task for me, anyhow, so I'm going with a more expansive A-Z instead. It's the First Nut – Music Version A-Z. Which BAND, ARTIST or ALBUM would I pick from my worryingly overstuffed shelves and offer to a willing participant who'd not heard that particular band, artist or album before?
In many cases I had multiple perfect options and just had to choose one or the other. I realise the resultant list probably won't be of interest to anyone who isn't me, but I plan to enjoy it enough for all of us. :D
NOTE: each one opens in new tab, so prob best not to click 'em all at once.

The Final Fantasy VII Collection

Admittedly, VII, and the universe that grew out of it, exists exalted in the minds of fanboys and those for whom nostalgia is not only king, but verily, everything. While I do have nostalgia for the game itself, I am not actually one of either of those numbers. I have experienced the below items—that I’ve personally reviewed—multiple times over the intervening years. In fact, I engaged with them, and their myriad faults, immediately prior to the time of this writing. As a critical fan, I see not only their shortcomings, but also the strengths buried therein. I am able to continually find inspiration, joy, and emotional resonance in this world’s characters, without having to turn a blind-eye to the problems the individual releases have as interactive and non-interactive pieces of media.

The track is far from the smoothest, but for me,

"There ain’t no gettin’ offa this train"~

Source:
Final Fantasy VII
Official Final Fantasy VII Strategy Guide

Sequel Film:
Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children
Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete

Prequel Anime:
Last Order: Final Fantasy VII

Spin-Off Game:
Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII

Copyright-Skirting Costume Accessory:
Spirit Deluxe Wide Blade Sword

The Ju-on Collection

The Ju-on franchise began life in 1998 as two short films directed by Takashi Shimizu that formed part of a TV Movie named Gakkô no kaidan G (1998); they were Katasumi (In a Corner) and 4444444444 (Ten Fours), respectively.
It then moved to V-Cinema for The Curse I + II (2000, both) before finally making the leap to a full theatrical release with Ju-on: The Grudge (2002).
Its success was such that Hollywood soon followed with a series of English language remakes, two of which were even helmed by Dir. Shimizu himself.
If you only want to experience the best that each region has to offer, the Nut Blogs contributors recommend number 03 in the Japanese language selection below, and number 02 in the English language selection:

Japanese Language Films:
01. Ju-on: The Curse (2000)
02. Ju-on: The Curse 2 (2000)
03. Ju-on: The Grudge (2002)
04. Ju-On: The Grudge 2 (2003)
05. Ju-on: Shiroi Rojo (2009)
06. Ju-on: Kuroi Shojo (2009)
07. Ju-on: The Beginning of the End (2014)
08. Ju-on: The Final Curse (2015)
09. Sadako vs. Kayako (2016)

English Language Films:
01. The Grudge (2004)
02. The Grudge: Director's Cut (2004)
03. The Grudge 2 (2006)
04. The Grudge 3 (2009)

NOTE: Sadako vs. Kayako (2016) is a crossover with the Ringu franchise. For short reviews of films in that series see the Ringu Collection.

Spirit Deluxe Wide Blade Sword (2017)

I was pretty sure I was going to learn something from this experience that I honestly already knew: NEVER order from the website. Shop in-person. Though, to be fair, this seems like a bad idea even if you find one without a hole in the tip. The paint is ghastly. Those two giant spots look to have been simply slathered on, after the fact. The support rod isn't nearly wide enough; the outer-thirds are super pliable. Not literally as pliable as, say, the blade on the Spin Sword, but it is the equivalent amount for a blade of this size. There were small random chunks missing from hilt, as well. By far and away, the worst Spirit product I've ever touched. I guess I applaud them for their ambition, but it didn't work out.

If you're impatient, into gambling, and okay with losing out on the shipping charge, you can at least return online orders in-store.

2022 Update:I did not ever expect that they'd be willing to fix this, BUT OMG, THEY DID. They had a few, yesterday, and to my utter shock they were all fully erect. Did they put more support rods in here? Is the blade smaller?

I FIGURED IT OUT!!! The perfectly circular hole, the flimsiness...the longest support rod must have fallen out of the original one I had. ...Annnnnnd, they shipped it to me, regardless. Lovely. Make sure to look out for the paint issues, missing chunks, and giant holes, but if you can find one that's in good shape and can hold its shape, BUY BUY BUY.

I am ecstatic over this. I never dreamed I'd actually get to own a solid copy of this!

CLOUD REPRESENT.

0 QC out of 5

5 Pfizer-Fueled Fixes out of 5

Neg's Costume Accessory Weapons Collection

Looking for a change of scenery? Click here.

Unlike toku role-play toys, where the meaning has been entirely shifted to the endless gimmicks you have to supply them with to unlock their 'on-disc dlc,' weapons in genuine fiction are symbols and conduits of the strength and resolve of the people who wield them. If they are appropriately rendered and as close to actual size as is feasible (hello, Mr. Buster Sword~), then YOU can hold them, and engage in a spectral, yet actually physical handshake with said character('s strength).

For the very most part, I recommend examining Spirit Halloween's wares carefully, in-person, before purchasing. Otherwise, be diligent in your research, and remember to consider a seller's reputation if photos of the actual piece you're ordering aren't provided. If you can find well-constructed pieces with a level of detailing that appeals to you, I think you'll be pleased, because such gems beg to be displayed long after you've built and worn your costume.


BA. Jeb — BMC Toys American Hero Collector Series: Authentic Bowie Knife

0. Travis

       a. Spirit Long Sledge Hammer
       b. Nicky Bigs Novelties Sledge Hammer
       c. Spirit Foam Sledge Hammer

1. Harry and Rose

       a. Spirit Deluxe Katana
       b. TMNT: Leonardo(’s) Katana
       c. Spirit Bloody Butcher's Knife
       d. Spirit Kitchen Knife

2. James and Maria

       a. Silent Hill 2 spoilers, ahoy!
       b. Suit Yourself Costume Co. Bloody Cleaver

3. Heather

       a. BladeBuilders Basic Luke Skywalker Heather Mason Beam Saber
       b. BladeBuilders Deluxe Luke Skywalker Heather Mason Beam Saber

4. Henry

       a. Hero's Edge Rusty Axe
       b. Spirit Bloody Axe w/Holster

5. Alex

      a. Kobalt 36’’ Hexagonal Wrecking Bar (For real real, not for play play.)
      b. Hero's Edge Fire Axe

6. Murphy and Anne

      a. Spirit Horror Double Axe
      b. Juda Toys Swat Team: Swat 9mm Pistol
      c. Dolanus Summer Party Water Pistol
      d. Spirit Battery-Operated Toy Gun

_______________

Spirit Deluxe Wide Blade Sword

X-Men '97 Wolverine Claws

Spirit Battery-Operated Toy Gun ()

Remember what I said in my review of the Skull Magnum? All of it is still 100% true, and frankly, it's even more pertinent here. Thank goodness this is the opposite of that toy. I.e., this is literally (financially) worthless and I'll never have to worry about selling it. It will sit on my shelf with the rest of my Silent Hill collection and I will never answer the door with it in my hand. Heed that advice yourself, if you get one.

It's undeniably cheap, but it fits the bill and it won't crumble in your hand. However, I wouldn't drop it. I didn't even know it had a sound! Yes, a single sound. It's more of an extended, violent WHOOSH than a gunshot, but I wasn't expecting anything, so it's icing. I don't have a Youtube channel any longer and I'm not going to bother the rest of the Nut Blog crew over it. You can try it in-store. It says you can, right on the packaging. Be kind and replace the plastic tab, if you do. Even if the batteries are dead, the click is heavy and satisfying.

I generally prefer melee weapons, in almost every sphere, but with Anne, there really is no leeway.

2023 Update: It seems like Spirit is only selling the entirely orange ones, now. I can't blame them. If you'd like the rest of the story, click here and here.

I adore Heather. I like Larfleeze. Ergo, I'm keepin' it. Q.E.D.

2 Obligatory Dick Monsters out of 5
It also looks like the M92F from RE5

Threshold Oil-Rubbed Towel Tower ()

Oil-Rubbed!?!? I can't 😂  Oooooh, ooookaaay... I don't remember seeing that on the box! Right, so its pretty sturdy, even if you choose to forgo the side-rails, like I did. I originally had my Blade weapons resting on the bottom four shelves, in their inserts. That's what precluded the rails. You'll need a Phillips-head screwdriver for assembly, regardless of your desired level of completion. If you really want it for towels, that's cool, and it'll definitely do the job flawlessly. I think its true strength is in storing bladed toys that are too pliable for their own good. Hanging vertically (and level) they won't have the chance to move, and consequently warp, in any particular direction. Assuming their hilts are wide enough to comfortably rest upon two of the rails, and their blades are thin enough to fit between them, this is an ideal set-up. It's five shelves high, so unless you've got a 1:1 scale replica of Sephiroth's Masamune, you should be fine.

I love how it looks loaded up, because it evokes those moments in games where you get to retrieve your inventory, after being separated from it for some back-to-basics/stealth/PANIC! times. Or, if you're Constantine, for the duration of two cutscenes...

5 Less Than One Minute Cleanings with a Dry-Dust Cloth out of 5

Spirit Deluxe Katana ()

It occurs to me that I didn't place the game in my shot of the TMNT katana.
I must have known subconsciously...

I traded up! There’s a good reason: our neighbor’s grandkid has been going on about how he wants Leonardo’s katanas. Guess who has had one of those~ Alright, there’s two reasons: this is the BEST costume accessory weapon I have ever held in my hands. JEEBUS H. FISTO, it is just shy of perfection (in its tier, of course). Simply take a look at the tip to make sure there isn’t any paint scraped off and you're good to go. The support rod runs just shy of the tip, like something else I reviewed, but the blade is so uniformly thick that there’s no chance of accidental warping. You’d have to deliberately try to wrench it out of shape. It’s super weighty and has a rounded guard!!! There was no way I was passing this up. It was a the-stars-have-aligned situation, through and through.

It has every right to call itself deluxe.

4½ Hidden Skills of the Father Made Manifest in the Daughter out of 5

Spirit Kitchen Knife ()

This is incredibly similar to the hammer that I've got for Travis. It's painted foam over some manner of support rod. It ends about an inch and a half short of the tip, for obvious reasons. This means that there is potential for it being, or getting warped. If you hang yours vertically through a wire shelf, like I do with my blades, then that potential issue should sort itself out. It's too pliable as-is for me to recommend the hairdryer trick. The bigger issue is one of QC. In this case, it's not the paint you'll want to examine in-person, it's the edge of the blade. I saw a few with untrimmed 'flash.' I DO NOT recommend trimming it yourself. You'll likely cut too close, disrupt the seam, and cause it to split open wholesale. Examine these carefully before purchasing!

I know, I know, the handle doesn't match Rose's. But, we already know that if it works for me, it works for me.

2 Series Where Jumping Between Buildings Is Actually a Good Idea out of 5

Logitech PSP PlayGear Pocket (Slim;)

I've long bought cases like this for all of my handhelds. As is the norm when there's a single noteworthy problem and a multitude of positives, I'm getting the former out of the way immediately: the material comprising the inserts is strangely almost gummy. This presents no issues in regards to coming into contact with the system, but when detritus ends up on it, you're going to have to basically gouge it out with your nails. It's not nearly as damning as it sounds, as you can simply rinse the inserts. I recommend either allowing them to air dry, or carefully using a blow-dryer (with an adult's help, if applicable). Drying them with any manner of tissue is going to return them to their original state, wasting your efforts.

In regards to the longevity and structural integrity, I'll let you know that I actually bought mine used. It's awash in scratches. Whoever had it first put it through hell. Yet, it still looks great and the friction on the dual hinges has remained sublime. There are mounds on the back for your fingers to naturally grip onto, and the lid is a revelation. Say you're grinding in an RPG and want to watch something while doing so. You can fold it such that it's sitting perpendicular, in the rear (I.e., 270°). In the course of normal play, I keep it up to emulate the top half of a DS/3DS. It does worlds for maintaining immersion, in that position.

As long as you can stomach a bit of effort when it comes to cleaning, and actually have a PSP, and actually take it places, this is a dream.

4 Wolves Pleasingly Mimicking A Sheep's Weight Distribution out of 5

The Magnificent Seven Collection

It doesn't matter to me whether or not the Western genre is representative of how life really was back in the day. I don't care if it's been exaggerated, romanticised or straight up invented. What matters is that it provides a recognisable framework within which many different types of story can be told: the frontier town, the bandits, the selfless hero, the guns for hire, etc, are versatile tools in the hands of experienced writers. The original Magnificent Seven film is that versatility in action. It's a remake that's respectful to both its Japanese source material and its own parent genre, proving that some stories truly can be universal at heart and it's just the telling that changes. The western appropriation of the seven hired hands is so good that it even spawned a number of imitators and sequels of its own:

The Source:
01. Seven Samurai (1954)

The Films:
01. The Magnificent Seven (1960)
02. Return of the Magnificent Seven (1966)
03. Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969)
04. The Magnificent Seven Ride (1972)

The TV Series:
01. The Magnificent Seven: TV Series (1998–2000)

Films Influenced By TMS:
01. Battle Beyond the Stars (1980)
02. The Seven Magnificent Gladiators (1983)

The Remake of the Remake:
01. The Magnificent Seven (2016)

The Sword and Sorcery Collection

Wiki describes the term as 'a subgenre of fantasy generally characterised by sword-wielding heroes engaged in exciting and violent conflicts,' with elements of 'romance [...] magic and the supernatural.' It mentions also that it often overlaps with Heroic Fantasy films, as does my list below.
The Hyborian Conan is the undisputed king, but there are plenty of other heroes for hire; you'll more than likely find them standing stoutheartedly on hills while the sun sets; temporarily chained in dank castle dungeons; or jovially drinking and wenching in taverns. I still love the genre, but I feel that modern film techniques have sucked most of the soul out of it – its heyday is over, sadly. Here's what we've got so far (arranged alphabetically):

Primitives By Kathy Box Sign — Imperfection ()

That's the door to the NegLiner. I'm not a fan of the term "man cave." It has nothing to do with gender politics; I just personally find it to be a silly turn of phrase. You may find the practice of hanging affirmations about your abode to be equally silly. I generally do, too, and for a few years I contented myself with having a picture of this, on my phone. One day, though, I suddenly felt that my Jin collection was falling behind. It's still behind, and will ever be.

This will also ever be the most concise statement of Jin's life-philosophy (assembled from pieces of broken memories). Don't go throwing it about, because I suspect you could start splintering the wood pretty easily. Well, don't drop it is the more appropriate warning. It really is a box with the back missing, so I've got the top edge resting on three equally spaced nails. Of course it ended up being crooked 😁

5 Lovable Eccentrics Who Were Never Really Yours out of 5

The PTU Collection

The real PTU (Police Tactical Unit) are a special unit within the Hong Kong Police Force that perform a number of roles, such as patrolling streets, providing backup to other divisions when needed, aiding disaster response teams, and participating in riot control, among other things. This PTU do all of that, too, but they're fictionalised. Their methods aren't always legal, but they cover their asses well, looking out for each other by stalling for time and hiding truths, except when there's a personal rivalry taking precedence.
The original film was by Hong Kong filmmaker Johnnie To (aka To Kei-Fung) in 2003 and remains to this day one of his best works. The five subsequent TV Movies used some of the same actors but as different characters.

The Original Film:
01. PTU: Police Tactical Unit (2003) Dir. Johnnie To

The Tactical Unit TV Movies:
01. Tactical Unit: The Code (2008) Dir. Wing-cheong Law
02. Tactical Unit: No Way Out (2009) Dir. Lawrence Ah Mon
03. Tactical Unit: Human Nature (2009) Dir. Andy Ng
04. Tactical Unit: Comrades in Arms (2009) Dir. Wing-cheong Law
05. Tactical Unit: Partners (2009) Dir. Lawrence Ah Mon

Sparrow Innovations 1:12 Scale Deck of Cards ()

I'm honestly impressed with the print quality, given the size and especially the price point of these. My set is pretty astoundingly crisp. Yeah, they are paper and they will bend and crease if you manhandle them enough, but use a modicum of care and these will...suit your needs just fine~

I made part of a deck myself, once upon a time, but outside of the Joker, it was a pretty basic affair. If you're located in the US and want 1:12 scale cards, I honestly don't see you doing any better, given that Sparrow Innovations' miniatures are readily available at one of the largest craft stores around. I'll leave you to the simple task of figuring out which.

4½ Obvious Proclivities on Display out of 5

Sparrow Innovations 1:12 Scale Books ()

Unless you're looking for a specific book, these are utter perfection, and will suit any number of needs. They're textured, they've got streaks of paint for detail, and they actually have pages. Blank pages, of course, but if you're in the market for something for Philip, that's even more perfection. I like these things so much that I'm going to go count how many came in my package. Comparing mine to this picture, it would SEEM that you will get 8. Two of each color.

The nice thing about Sparrow Innovations' miniatures is that they are readily available at one of the largest craft stores in the United States. I'll leave you to the simple task of figuring out which.

5 Cyclone Effects (Please Don't Ever Stop It) out of 5

Falcon Collectible Miniatures 1:12 Scale Jug ()

I'm pretty confident this is a ceramic affair. Yes, one of the two miniatures stores I found tonight seems to confirm this. It's glazed well, and is pleasing to the eye, assuming you want to be seeing a jug in your dollhouse or display... If yours arrives like mine did, it'll be in a very classy tiny box. A most pleasing experience it was; may it be the same for you~

For me, this is a pleasing stand-in for Chimatsuri Doukoku's sake bottle.

3 Harrowing Reminders of Inevitability out of 5

Hudson River Miniatures 1:12 Scale Quart Milk Bottle()

Shirai Koutarou is love. I had to say that up front because I'm listening to his duet with Kenzaki and having a bit of a moment 😭

Right, right, the milk! This is really the most basic miniature I've ever owned. If you're as big a stickler for paint perfection as Bobby Skullface (someone else who is very much love), you might be disappointed, depending on the sloppiness of the piece you receive. To my eyes, though, it's perfectly acceptable for this scale. The only real complaint is with myself, for not getting a whole basket full of milk. Hudson River in particular doesn't seem able to scratch that itch, but several other options definitely exist to get a set of bottles, basket and all.

4 Very Custom License Plates out of 5

Aztec Imports 1:12 Scale Sony Vaio Laptop ()

From the reviews I've seen, this thing gets a miserable rap. I actually like it, A. WHOLE. LOT. The issue others have is that there is no joint present in the hinge, whatsoever. Not a ratchet, not detents, not even a friction joint. See those bumps? Those are two rings of (presumably) zinc, welded or soldered through two holes in the lid. It's a regular flop-topus. But, it's not a Figuarts accessory; it's a miniature and while, no, it won't work if you're planning to put it on a free-standing desk, or the like, it will work just fine if you have something to prop it up against. Push that desk up to a wall, or the back of a shelf, etc. Or, if that's not satisfactory, by all means, pass it by. I'll have to see how the years treat the stickers, but they didn't set off any of the usual alarms, so here's hoping~

I got it to represent Hirose-san, but it works for (or with) anyone who uses a laptop. They even have a MacBook!

4 Chances to Out-Troll the King of Trolls out of 5

Odoria Colorful 1:12 Scale Wine Bottles ()

Whether or not these'll be worthwhile for you depends on two things: how anal you are, and how handy you're willing to be. Some of these have small, circular extensions around back, from where I assume they were attached to their sprues. There's also a chance of mold flash on their bottoms, leading to them sitting somewhat askew. If you're willing to be careful, I suppose you could sand those problems away. Luckily, the ones I needed only suffered from the excess flash, which I was able to remove safely with my fingernail.

Really, what better representation is there for Yogostein, Kegareshia, and Kitaneidas?

The 3 Friendliest Villains You'll Ever Meet out of 5

Sparrow Innovations 1:12 Scale Rifles ()

I'm not entirely sure how the muzzle of that one got bent without a vice-grip. These are diecast and really nice for their price. The only fear I'd have is the paint coming off if left in the hands of a figure that also happens to reside in a particularly hot climate, or display space. I can't imagine them being damaged under normal circumstances, or in stable-temperature environs.

Ichijou should have become a Rider, but as it stands a rifle is probably the most fitting representation a Kuuga fan is going to find. I passed the shotgun onto a friend, but it would have looked great in Momo's hands, if I still had him.

The nice thing about Sparrow Innovations' miniatures is that they are readily available at one of the largest craft stores in the United States. I'll leave you to the simple task of figuring out which.

4½ Undeniable Shippings out of 5

Superior Dollhouse Miniatures 1:12 ScaleGreen Cabbage Garden ()

The sculpting here is very nice for the normal retail price. Go take a look at some of the listings on that there giant internet marketplace, though. Sometimes you just have to laugh at the inexplicable prices in the hundreds and thousands of dollars range, for items that are only worth a few. Even for a few bucks, this still has to answer for the fact that the cabbages can rip up from the base with minimal effort. I've got crazy glue to fix mine if/when it gets bad enough, but light toothbrushing should not result in that. I shouldn't have to resort to canned air for something like this.

Highly recommended for a Figuarts Agito. No, absolutely essential.

2019 UPDATE: If the cabbages come up, you're going to find a stiff metal rod protruding from their bottoms. Don't purchase this for a child. Probably don't purchase it at all, in light of this, to be honest.

1 Cake Waiting to Happen out of 5

Sparrow Innovations 1:12 Scale Heart Cake ()

Even if you're careful with miniatures with sculpted pieces like these (no, I'm not going to be foolhardy enough to guess what material they're comprised of), they can still break off if you aren't excessively delicate. Be careful if you're using a physical implement to clean them, is the take-home message, today. The issue with this piece in particular is that doily. It's almost inevitable it's going to be creased, or get creased. It's just paper, after all. I removed it, because it was entirely unsightly. The bottom is a mess of scraped up paint, now, but if something's going to be damaged, the bottom is my first choice. Yeah, those aren't M&Ms on top, but it's close enough for something to represent Amachi Hakase, without doubling him up with Master Head.

The nice thing about Sparrow Innovations' miniatures is that they are readily available at one of the largest craft stores in the United States. I'll leave you to the simple task of figuring out which.

2 Bites and the Slice Was Gone out of 5

Doll House Shoppe 1:12 Scale Melting Snowman ()

The sad truth is that this seems to be a crapshoot, in terms of quality. Mine wasn't sloppy, but I've seen more than one picture tonight saying that the possibility for trailing ends and errant globs is very real. You could look at your local craft and hobby stores, or hope there's a listing on ebay with a picture of the actual piece. If you get a good one like mine was, this is a nice enough bauble. I had it for my Figuarts Momotaros to put his foot up on. Yeah, I know Urataros encouraged the hissatsu, but Momo had the more memorable part of the fight, and if you asked him, he'd likely claim the victory as his own.

3 Unexpected Affections For Father Christmas out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider W CycloneJoker (2010)

This is way past gone. It got the boot because mechanically it was AWFUL. The joints weren't agreeable in the ankles, the hands were hard to wrestle onto their balljoints, and, exacerbating both of those problems, the antennae—and honestly the entirety of the thing—felt brittle. Nothing ever broke, but the fear was disgustingly constant. It seemed as if I was trying to articulate a piece of glass without breaking it. Though small, the accessory count is exactly what it needs to be (see below the cut) and the paint is rather miraculous, especially on the Cyclone half. Though, because W's aesthetic is predicated on halves, the black elbow joint there does stick out, unlike with Yoko.

If you just want to look at it, it'll fit the bill. But, as with the Shinken ladies, this is a Figuart and articulating it is the point. For me, W and Figuarts were just a match made in Hell. W specifically. Accel rules.

1 Missing Maximum Drive Slot, Coming Up out of 5
It legitimately rivaled the kneepads of the Imagin.

KEM Plastic Bridge Cards ()

Because of the ubiquitous nature of playing cards, it’s intensely possible that both poker-sized and bridge-sized decks have called your utility drawer home, over the years. However, not everyone may be acutely aware of the difference which is most pertinent to me and a certain subset of toy collectors: their size. I’m not busting out a ruler, only my camera and a selection of cards relevant to the things I’ve reviewed here.

In specific, I’m covering plastic (né, plastic cellulose-acetate 😏 ) bridge cards. I suppose they’re nice if you’re the sort to repeatedly spill your drinks, but for my purposes, they were the perfect solution to keeping my Rouze cards in pristine shape. Bridge cards are slightly taller than DX toy cards from Bandai of Japan, but the key dimension for Blade Rouzers is the width. These cards fit that bill. If you store them in a hot enough place, they will begin to curl up, but the nice thing is that the fans on Kenzaki and Tachibana-san’s Rouzers prevent them from doing so. Try to keep something heavy on top of your Hajime, Mutsuki, and King decks.

3 Card Combos Quickly Rouzed Without The Fear of Frayed Edges out of 5

Shogun Mode Red Samurai Ranger (2011)

My dog actually got ahold of this one. No, not because I intentionally gave it to him 😑  If you've read enough of my stuff, you'll know I tend to really like BoA figures. And, this one in particular is great for fans of both Samurai and Shinkenger. If you like the former, and the aesthetics of this form, get it. The shoulder pads can swivel out of the way to a very nice degree, but if you're fine with the plastic of those and the fixed hip-skirts warping to the shape of a desired pose, you can do most anything you'd like with it. For those of us who devote ourselves to the latter, the accessories are where everyone's interests come together. The Mougyuu/Bullzooka is not painted like the Figuarts version that comes with Super Shinken Red, but this is the only way you're going to get one at this size. It combines with the included Mega Blade to make a decent Shogun Spear, and if you've got one of the regular Super figures, you can slap a Super Spin Sword in there for Super times~

I did it for the dual-wielding:

4 Destruction Strewn Heretic Paths out of 5

Souchaku Henshin Kamen Rider Den-O Liner Form (2007)

One could argue that any version of Den-O that they possess is good enough to encompass and represent Ryoutarou himself. However, for me, to be 100% respectful to the character and his growth, there are only two options: Liner OR Super Climax. While Blade’s King Form is undeniably the most gorgeous Souchaku Henshin I know of, I’d have to argue that this one is the most functional and solidly made that I’ve experienced. The Figuart wasn’t around when I had this and frankly, yes, you should go that route now that you can. Still, this looks much less bulky than earlier SH figures and if you have the taste for these predecessors, it remains a very nice option. There are even molded holding-hands included, since I know the thought of SH hands holding the DenKamen Sword will concern those in the know.

If I were to nitpick, I’d argue it should have come with a DenGasher in sword mode. Not only did he use it before the death of Plat Form, but he also used it in Saraba, where he was intentionally made to drop the DenKamen Sword, symbolizing his independence. I really can’t complain with a straight face that the blade of the latter doesn’t come off to emulate the Ryuutaros encouraged finisher from the combined finale. I’m sure most can settle for throwing it with the help of a Tamashii stage, which was also done.

Ore-tachi, sanjou!!

4 Heavy Burdens to Bear out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Shinken Blue & Shinken Green (2011)

I have no idea why, but they went absolutely apeshit with hands for all of the exclusive Shinkengers. I’m not even going to attempt to tell you what they’re all for. All I know is that, just like the regular releases, they have everything necessary to hold the stuff they come with. As for the rest...Ryuunosuke is apparently the posing-est motherfucker on the planet. But, hey, that doesn’t really qualify as a complaint. If you can afford these, and you want them, the rank-and-file boys are great. Let’s see, we’ve got:

• Shinkenmarus
• Shodophones in Brush mode
• Their Origami in Emblem and Live modes
• Their signature weapons:
• Water Arrow
• Wood Spear

I wish there had been a way to work the spear into the tray. Actually, it’s an exclusive; why couldn’t they give it its own tray like Takeru’s Rekka Daizantou? I was always leery about it, but it never warped, so it was ultimately fine.

A lot of people hate the shoulders, and while they are weird to work with, and can create gaps if you aren’t conscientious about the near-floating cover pieces, I was never overly annoyed by them. 

Given the overall quality of the figures, they’re FINE.

4½ Awkwardly Sticky Situations out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Sieg Imagin (2009)

While Ryuuta and Kin’s exclusivity was a surprise, Sieg’s decidedly was not. Look at the picture, right now, and realize that you aren’t getting much for your money, here. Splayed hands, fists, and one to hold his coffee. The cup doesn’t quite match the one he’s using in the finale, but it’s nothing more than a slight embellishment of it, so that’s A-OK. Especially considering he actually got one! They definitely should have picked a different picture for the box, or given him a pointing hand, though. One or the other, Bandai!

The rub, for YOU, not me, is that Sieg is in fact a show Imagin. There is no getting around this. He is not a movie exclusive. This is based on undeniable realities, not my usual fan-theorizing. If you’re getting Ryoutarou’s Imagin, the imperative is in place to get Sieg. I could apologize, but I’m not going to, because I adore him. As brief as his time is, he has an arc and a role to play in theories about the nature/symbolism of Kai. He is Den-O’s Sixth and he executes that part to perfection.

Be mindful of every Imagin’s kneepads. If you’re willing to risk potential future sales, carefully gluing them in is an option.

4 Names Shamefully Not Called out of 5

Figuarts Zero Kuroko (2011)

These kurokos came with the initial releases of Shinken Red and Gold. That’s actually quite convenient, as having them bookending your line-up makes for a very clean display. There are Shiba clan banners on the back of their boxes that you can cut out, if you’re so inclined. Honestly, the only real drawback is related to that: the packaging isn’t collector friendly. You can re-encase them in the bubble-wrap, sure, but those bags aren’t going to un-tear themselves until the universe re-contracts upon itself. In less ridiculous news, the sculpting is basic, but being mostly comprised of cloth undulations, it’s still decently impressive.

It’s hard to complain about free things.

4½ Under-appreciated Helpers in the Shadows out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Shinken Pink & Shinken Yellow (2011)

The score below will be for Mako and Kotoha, as I never ended up opening Kaoru before selling her. However, there’s still some things I can mention that warrant bringing her up as a talking point. There’s a glaring problem with the Shinkenger ladies, given that they were the first female Sentai Figuarts produced. I’m usually fine with skirts to the point that I tolerate them hindering articulation. I can normally forgo dynamic poses as long as Bandai is actually producing the female figures.

However, these are Figuarts; I cannot judge them the same as I would BoA figures or vinyl figures. I have to hold them accountable for their articulation, because that’s part of their M.O. If you want to have these utilize their full range of motion, you have to rip them in half and install broken-up skirt pieces to allow that. I find it excessive and a little unsettling, to be completely honest. The final result is really ugly, to boot. Later Figuarts ladies made a much better compromise. In line with this, know that Shinken Pinks are known for having insanely tight hips that can break if you force them too quickly.

If you’re going in on the entire team, and you can live with the women standing mostly upright, these at least do look absolutely stellar with their intact skirts. I’ll list Mako and Kotoha’s accessories below the cut, but Kaoru’s merit mention now: she includes everything Takeru does, except for Shishi Origami. That’s a bit baffling, along with the fact that her Rekka Daizantou is exactly the same, instead of being in Oozutsu Mode, given that Takeru’s doesn’t transform.

2 is the Norm, but Having Three Every Time Would Be A-OK With Me out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Kintaros and Ryuutaros Imagin (2009)

Seemingly because of Urataros’s shabby sales, Kin and Ryuuta were relegated to being exclusive releases. While this is disappointing, the one positive spin that can be executed is that the two most detailed and utterly beautiful designs were the ones shoved behind the additional-pay wall. Kin is staggeringly gorgeous rendered in plastic and was tight across the board. His fur is hard plastic, while Ryuuta’s coat and trappings are made of a rubbery sort that still veers closer to being hard than soft. They are hinged. I acknowledge that this is a problem for many folks, but for me personally, it is something that I ultimately prefer. Ryuutaros is more than capable of laying on the floor next to Momo’s dining-car table, with his legs bent up. I’d rather he be able to color there than be seated. I know that’s not the case for everyone, though.

While both come with their weapons and tons of hands, and Ryuuta has his ponytail and headphones, there is one great crime: they don’t have their coffees! I’d honestly be pretty close to begrudgingly okay with them being exclusives, if they had both had that crucial accessory. How did they give it to the regular releases, but not these? It boggles the mind.

I personally believe that figure collectors need to invest in dollhouse miniatures, and while I doubt you could find appropriately decorated coffee cups, you can at least track down some 1:12 scale crayons and a coloring book, like I did. Shit, use a scrap of paper for the latter. Ryuutaros deserves it.

Be mindful of every Imagin’s kneepads. If you’re willing to risk potential future sales, carefully gluing them in is an option.

4½ Acts of Violence Perpetrated on Child Characters Capable of Defending Themselves out of 5

S.H. Figuarts Shinken Red (2011)

Outside of having the Rekka Daizantou, Takeru is pretty basic as a Figuart. Regardless, the Shinken Red suit is iconically Sentai, in my eyes. Plus, he’s the only other Shinkenger who got a regular release. Consequently, there’s not much to complain about here, in terms of what comes in the box, at any rate. There are hands specifically for everything included: a Shinkenmaru, a Shodophone in brush mode, the Rekka Daizantou, and Shishi Origami, both in emblem and live mode (Hi, W.). The Rekka Daizantou (yes, I will say it as much as possible) is hollow and consequently works just fine in his hands. The Figuarts Blade Blade, however, stretches them out and is generally an ultimate pain. It’s a shame, but it shouldn’t be enough to dissuade someone from picking up this figure. In terms of getting the sword itself, sure, it may be a deal breaker.

If you’re the kind of person who only buys Reds (please don’t be), you should be very happy with this one. Though, be aware that his Super and Hyper versions were made and released, as well. They LOOK really good, but I’m not qualified to make any statements beyond that. Also know that Kaoru was produced, but was an exclusive.

A lot of people hate the shoulders, and while they are weird to work with, and can create gaps if you aren’t conscientious about the near-floating cover pieces, I was never overly annoyed by them. 

Given the overall quality of the figures, they’re FINE.

4½ Properly Existing Paper Airplanes out of 5