In Search of...
Indiana Jones Toys
01/05/08, 2:55pm EST
Waiting
for May 1st to arrive and the arrival of the first Indiana Jones toys
to hit, well was almost as bad as the wait for May 22nd! May 1st was
long rumored as the street date for the new line of Hasbro toys and
LEGOs, even though I had been personally denied the LEGO Crystal
Skull sets last week at a Walmart when I was told they were out
but not yet for sale! Not today, today would be different... wouldn't
it?
Heading off to Walmart -- and found
nothing!
Across the street to Target -- and found nothin!
Back towards the highway and the other Walmart -- nothing!
Target at the Mall -- nothing!
Though Barnes and Nobles had the Ultimate Guide to Indiana Jones,
sticker books, Indiana Jones Handbook, and the Empire magazine with
Indy -- but these are not toys!
Distraught I check the Toys"R"Us.
There was a huge wall of Speed Racer, peg hooks of Batman:
the Dark Knight, Iron Man, The Hulk even Kung
Fu Panda! Then I see it... a few racks of the Indiana Jones 3/34" Raiders
and Crystal Skull figures, Adventure Heroes, 12' Indys,
LEGOs, DVD game, toy whip, Convoy tucks -- it was like an Indy
Christmas in May! So, I went through the shelves and chose wisely the
ones I wanted and ones I could get later on. Then other Indyfans showed
up and before you knew it just a few Mutts hung from the peghooks. The
clerk looked over at the display and just said "Wow"!
So there you have it Indyfans - the
toys have returned -- now you just have to find them!
By the way, the talking 12" Indiana
Jones is the creepiest thing I have ever seen. You pres his gut and
hear 12 or so quotes form Harrison Ford as Indy, that's fine. But the
rubber open mouth that moves as you press his stomach looks like
Donavan's jaw as he ages rapidly after drinking from the wrong Grail --
Creepy... but cool!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Hasbro's Indy Toy
Site Redesigned
01/05/08, 2:57pm EST
The
release of Indiana Jones to stores has also brought a redesign to the Hasbro's
Indy toy section. You can get all the latest news and images on the
figures, buddy icons, games, links to the National Geographic contest,
Burger King and the Hasbro Toy shop. A real snazzy way to get you
running to the toy stores!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Official Pix
Unviels New Indy 4 Photos!
01/05/08, 7:59pm EST
Official Pix has delivered two dozen great NEW
images from Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.
From various Indy images to Mutt, Marion and the gang these look great
and best of all you order them and start you collection of Indy imagery
right now!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Topps Crystal
Skull Cards Arrive
04/05/08, 4:25pm EST
Topps Indy 4 cards. |
|
While on a quest of my own to track down a cemetery Warrior from the
newest set of figures, I spotted a box of Topps newest trading cards
for Indiana Jones. The new set has 7 cards and even though this was not
a "hobby" edition bought at a comic or baseball card shop, but rather a
Target, it still mentioned finding autograph cards randomly inserted
into the packs. Like a kid at Christmas I had to peak, so I bought just
4 packs and carefully opened them to see what I would find. I found a
few of the exclusive "foil" cards, a "peel & reveal" card and some
basic scenes from the film. Now not wanting to spoil anything, I
scanned in only those images that have been circulating for months and
do not reveal any plot points. The cards are very nice in design and
feature some illustrated scenes, as if taken from the comic book
adaptation, in the cards as well.
I quickly shuffled through scenes I
hadn't seen before, and definitely did not read the backs with the
story told in detail -- rather I put them in my desk drawer with a
promise not to look until May 23rd.
So while you are searching for Indy
Potato Heads, Adventure Heroes, Pop Tarts and maybe a Cemetery Warrior
(get one for me, please). Look for the Indiana Jones and the
Kingdom of the Crystal Skull trading cards - only $1.99 a pack at
Target and probably Walmart.
If you want to see some of the
Indy/Skull sketch cards - read my upcoming new article with artist Joe
Corroney!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
More Info on the Tomb
of the Gods Comic Book
06/05/08, 5:13pm EST
Dark
Horse printed a special column on the back of all its April titles
focusing on their upcoming "Indiana Jones" line. You can view an online
version of the article here.
And here follows some new info
summoned up by 'Yodazone':
Indiana Jones and the Tomb of
the Gods is a 4-issue series instead of 5 issues and the Indiana
Jones Adventures book has their creative team announced and Vol. 1
is being released in September!
And now Dave Land is the new editor
of the Indy line instead of Jeremy Barlow who just stepped down to
focus on writing.
Newsrama recently published an interview with Indiana
Jones and the Tomb of the Gods writer Rob Williams who had some
exciting things to share.
Here follows an excerpt of the interview in which Rob announces the return of
one of the most beloved characters in the franchise, besides Indy
himself:
Newsrama: We've
got Indiana Jones onboard, for sure.. his name's in the title, after
all. But are there any other familiar characters we can look forward to
seeing in this miniseries?
Rob Williams: "Lots of Marcus Brody, who's an absolute delight in The
Last Crusade thanks to a wonderful performance by the late Denholm
Elliott. Marcus is just too good not to have along for the ride, and
also he's going to be something of an even keel in keeping Indy on the
right track when his eyes light up a little too wide when he gets the
'treasure' in his sights. Which is something that Indy is definitely
guilty of."
Writer Rob Williams was also talked
with Comic Book Resources about his Indiana Jones
and the Tomb of the Gods miniseries. Here follows an excerpt from
CBR's article report in which Rob Williams explains in
which year his Tomb of the Gods adventure takes place in
Indiana Jones' timeline, and why:
Though Temple of Doom was
the second film in the Indy film franchise, the film was set in 1935, a
year before the events of the inaugural Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Illustrated by Steve Scott with covers by Tony Harris, Tomb of the
Gods is set sometime in between those two films. "It's an interesting time in Indy's development,"
Rob Williams told CBR News. "One of the things we
talked about from the offset is the dichotomy in Indy's character
between Temple - where his mantra is ‘Fortune And Glory' -
and Raiders, where it's ‘That Belongs In A Museum.'"
And last, but definitely not the
least, Dark Horse has also revealed Hugh Fleming's cover
for issue #2 of the Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal
Skull comic book adaptation.
Here follows from left to right; High Fleming's final covers for issue
#1, his new cover for issue #2, and the variant cover for issue #2.
The cover to issue #3 of Indiana
Jones and the Tomb of the Gods should be out in a few days.
Issue #1 of the Indiana Jones and
the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull comic book adaptation goes on
sale on May 22.
Issue #1 of the Indiana Jones and the Tomb of the Gods comic
book mini-series goes on sale on June 29.
Special thanks to 'Yodazone' for the
information.
Posted by Gilles V
Blockbuster gets
the Indy 500 Gear Ready
08/05/08, 3:16pm EST
Exclusive Indy 500 hat. |
|
Blockbuster stores are pouring on the Indy racing
spirit and Indiana Jones release in a fast and furious way. The stores
are selling Official Pix images from Indiana Jones and the Kingdom
of the Crystal Skull, but they also have hats, including the
exclusive Indy/Indy 500 logo ones, replicas of the Indy 500 car in
die-cast metal, posters, glasses and an exclusive DVD case modeled
after Indy's luggage.
These items are appearing throughout
the country at your local Blockbuster video store so be sure to check them
out and maybe rent the first three Indy as you get ready for his return
on May 22nd!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy and the
Burger Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
12/05/08, 8:55am EST
If
the tell-tale signs that a huge blockbuster movie was coming was not
clear enough -- it is a when the kid's meal toys appear! Burger King
began running TV spots this morning showing a dad and his kids trying
to translate some temple writings only to have an Ugha Warrior show up
and translate that it meant to get to Burger King for Indiana Jones
toys!
The Official Burger King website is
also up and running an Indiana
Jones themed page that shows off the toys and food options. Let the
high calorie, fried treasure hunt begin!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones:
The Official Magazine Launches
15/05/08, 6:13pm EST
Marking
the momentous release of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the
Crystal Skull, the premiere issue of Indiana Jones: The
Official Magazine takes you behind the scenes on the production of
Indy's brand new adventure.
An incredible 26 years since
audiences first discovered Indiana Jones, the legendary movie franchise
finally has the magazine companion it so richly deserves. Indy's new
adventure takes center stage in this 100-page special issue, but in the
future we'll uncover all the secrets of Indiana Jones' illustrious
history - at the cinema, and beyond! The adventure starts here…
The premiere collector's issue of Indiana
Jones: The Official Magazine goes on sale May 22.
Visit Titan Magazines for more information.
Source: IndianaJones.com
Posted by Gilles V
Indiana Jones Die
Cast Miniatures
16/05/08, 1:58pm EST
Mark
over at the Indiana Jones Collectors has just posted some
close ups of Hasbro's first wave of Indiana Jones miniature vehicles
done in die-cast metal. From the Last Crusade tank,
motorcycle and sidecar to Mutt's motorcycle and the Jungle cutter from
the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull it looks like this line is
off to a flying start. Only time will tell if the next wave will be
giving us that Temple of Doom mine car and Tri motor plane. A
metal rubber raft may be cool too... but would probably sink in the
bath tub.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
A Sneak Peak At
New Indiana Jones Toys
20/05/08, 3:32pm EST
Leading
up to this week's highly-anticipated movie release of Indiana
Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, toy maker 'Uncle
Milton Industries' unveils a few of its previously undisclosed
educational Indiana Jones toy items and builds a bit of suspense
themselves… the new products won't be available until fall but this
sneak peak reveals that with this all-new line kids can learn about
science and nature in an exciting, fun-filled, Indiana Jones way.
Indiana Jones Giant RC Ant
from Uncle Milton
Giant
RC Ant |
|
In Indiana Jones and the Kingdom
of the Crystal Skull, Indy faces many dangers, not the least of
which is a swarm of huge, deadly ants. Now you can control a giant ant
complete with jaw chomping mandibles! Use the Crystal Skull remote to
send your ant scurrying across the floor. It's ultra-creepy and sure to
scare family and friends.
Ages: 6 and up SRP: $29.99
Indiana Jones Crystal Skull
Adventure Projector
from Uncle Milton
Crystal
Skull Projector |
|
Watch as the Crystal Skull projects
amazing images from its glowing eye. Professor Jones will be your tour
guide as you visit exciting archeological discoveries of the world and
famous scenes from the Indiana Jones movies.
Ages: 8 and up SRP: $39.99
Special thanks to Carrie for the info.
Posted by Gilles V
Indy Desk Set and Doom
MiniBust for Sale
28/05/08, 3:20pm EST
Ever
wish that you had the Holy Grail? Ark of the Covenant? Fertility Idol?
Then have you ever asked for a cool looking business card holder,
magnetic paper clip holder and pencil cup? Well you wishing days are
over, my friend because the folks at Gentle Giant have read your mind!
While they did not use the mind powers
of the Crystal Skull to get these ideas from you, they have created
some darn cool items to please every Indy fan -- and best of all they
ship in December just in time for the holidays! There is also a new
Indy min-bust molded after the Temple of Doom image on sale as
well. If you haven't been to the Indy shop lately then head over there as they have added Lego Indy
T-Shirts, bullwhip replicas, bus station posters and more!
Source: Indiana Jones Shop
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Harrison Ford To
Sign For Official Pix Again
29/05/08, 3:47pm EST
Official Pix is very proud to announce their next
signing with blockbuster actor, Harrison Ford!
Mr. Ford will once again be signing
both our fully Lucasfilm licensed Han Solo and Indiana Jones
photographs! The Star Wars image shown will be printed as an
11x14 inch photograph, and the Indiana Jones photo will be a standard
8x10 inch photograph. If history repeats, these will sell out quickly.
Make plans to get yours tomorrow!
Official Pix will begin the pre-order
for both images Friday May 30th at 3pm central time at officialpix.com.
Posted by Gilles V
Indiana Jones
M&M Merchandise on Sale
05/06/08, 4:11pm EST
The
ads were cute... the website was fun... the candy was good... and now
here comes the Indy M&M clothes! That's right from The
Chocolate Crusade to the Temple of Chocolate it is all here
and ready to order at the Official M&M site. So show your
cross-karketing promotion side and love for Indy with these shirts.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
LEGO's Indy
ComicCon Mystery
11/06/08, 6:01pm EST
LEGO San Diego ComicCon exclusive. |
|
While we have seen images of the exclusive Hasbro Mighty Mugg Fertility
Idol that will be a San Diego ComicCon available, now LEGO joins with a
mysterious package of their own! This image found on the net (and
passed on to me by Indyfans' Brandon Kleyla) isn't letting
out much, but does fill the mind with all sorts of possibilities. A
Mola Ram Temple scene? A Mine Car chase? A Flying Wing? Only time will
tell what lurks in the box!
Source: FBTB.net
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy Raids the
Newsstands - Again.
11/06/08, 6:04pm EST
The world of Indiana Jones continues on at the local comic book shop
and bookstores with a variety of reading material for all ages. A visit
to my local comic shop, Alternate Universe, yield not only the second
issue of the Dark Horse adaptation of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom
of the Crystal Skull (with both covers), but the Diamond exclusive
version of Indiana Jones: The Ultimate Guide by James
Lucerno was in as was the second volume of the Indiana Jones
Omnibus from Dark Horse (and a poster advertising all of Indy's
Dark Horse related tie-ins a sincere thanks to the shop's owner, Erik,
for giving it to me).
The "leather bound" guide is
essentially the same as the regular format found in bookstores except
the back treats readers to copies of the detailed layouts of all of
Indy's exotic locations with vellum overlays of the descriptions that
can be pulled back so one can enjoy the rich detail of the
illustrations. The illustrations are gorgeous as is the presentation of
the material, as you learn every detail of the famed archeologist life.
The special book also includes six large color stills or photos from
Indy's adventures including two from Crystal Skull. The book
while created in a limited run, is a keeper for the Indy fanatic (like
myself) who has to have all things Indy. Speaking of all things Indy, a
trip to Borders yielded some other Indy books, albeit aimed at a
younger crowd.
The Play-a-Sound publishers have
created an interactive Indy/Crystal Skull book, where kids can
read and listen to sound effects from the film. You can press the famed
fedora to hear the Raiders' march at various times in the story, or
press Mutt, Marion, Spalko and the other new faces to hear related
dialogue and sound effects like a whip crack, explosion and motorcycle.
The book also includes a game on the back where the players can use
sounds as clues to help Indy find treasures. The price was $16.00 US)
and looked fun for the budding archeologist. Speaking of young Indy's,
the folks at Archeology magazine have put out a special issue of DIG
aimed at the kids featuring Indiana Jones. The magazine has mazes and
puzzles a it tells of what archeology is all about, the truth behind
snakes, crystal skulls, the Ark of the Covenant, Holy Grail and the
"do's and don'ts" of archeology. There is even an interview with Frank
Marshall on what its like to make an Indy movie as well as photos from
all the films. The book is only 4.95 and is great learning tool for the
young ones. Learn more at digonsite.com.
The final trip of the day to
Toys"R"Us yielded the Jungle Cutter by Hasbro and the remnants of Indy
snicker bars as room was being made for The Incredible Hulk
toys. Though I may be sad to see Indy dwindle on the shelves I know my
bank account is somewhat relieved.
Well, brave adventurers, that is all
on today's shopping excursion Indy style... catch up with you soon!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Second Issue of
the Official Indy Magazine is Out
18/06/08, 3:01pm EST
Magazine issue 2 cover. |
|
As Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
continues to thrill audiences all over the world, the second issue of
Indiana Jones: The Official Magazine is here - and, like the first,
it's packed full of features and interviews that no true fan of Indy
can afford to miss!
An interview with Harrison Ford heads
up to this new issue, as he shares the experiences of reprising his
most famous role. We turn the spotlight on Belloq and Indy's other
fearsome adversaries, and delve into Indiana Jones' illustrious
history, both in and out of the cinema! We also take a look at the art
of the adventure and lift the lid on the original concept art behind
the opening of the Ark. plus, a look back at one of Indy's most famous
moments - can anyone hear rumbling?
Don't miss issue 2 of Indiana Jones:
The Official Magazine on sale June 24.
Visit Titan Magazines for more information.
Source: IndianaJones.com
Posted by Gilles V
New Hasbro Temple
Of Doom Action Figures
25/06/08, 4:10pm EST
The
first image of Hasbro's 3 3/4' tall Indiana Jones and the Temple
of Doom action figures has arrived. The new characters scheduled
for a September 2008 release are Indiana Jones, Short Round, Willie
Scott, Mola Ram, Chief Guard, and Thuggee. Each figure comes with
movie-accurate accessories on blister card packaging.
Hasbro will also be releasing a new
version of their Raiders of the Lost Ark Cargo Truck. The
difference with the first Cargo Truck is that version will have a real
fabric type material on the canopy.
And Medicom have released the first
photos of an upcoming limited VCD Indiana Jones. This VCD Indy figure
is limited to only 2,008 pieces.
Thanks to Philip Salazar for the
Hasbro news.
Sources: Toy News International, Medicom & ThrowMeTheIdol
Posted by Gilles V
5-page Tomb of
the Gods Comic Book Preview
26/06/08, 2:33pm EST
Newsarama.com has posted a 5-page preview of Dark Horse's new Indiana
Jones and the Tomb of the Gods comic book issue #1. The full color,
40 pages, Tomb of the Gods comic book arrives in stores next
week, on July 2nd.
While at DarkHorse.com you can read a 3-page preview of their Indiana Jones
Adventures Vol. 1, released as an 80 pages pocket-sized volume last
week.
Thanks to Yodazone for the news.
Posted by Gilles V
Indiana Jones
shows us the light
28/06/08, 7:49am EST
Indy Adventures
Vol. 1 cover. |
|
While it seems like thousands of calories ago, the reward for consuming
Indiana Jones Waffles from Kellogg's has been delivered from our loyal
postman. The several small white boxes (I did eat a lot of these
waffles) held a plastic bag surrounding a small brown and yellowish
plastic flashlight engraved with the familiar name of Indiana Jones
done in the famed Raiders style typeface and also had
exotically carved hieroglyphics around the shaft. While the button
produced a blue-ish white light at one end, the other side has a canvas
strap so you can put it on your belt. The perfect piece of hardware
when exploring dark forgotten tombs or just trying to find your way to
the bathroom in the dark. Either way, its a cool piece of Indy
memorabilia to add to the ever expanding collection (and waistline).
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones
Adventures Volume 1 Review
28/06/08, 7:51am EST
Indy Adventures
Vol. 1 cover. |
|
The newest Indiana Jones story in comic form actually predates Indy's
earlier big screen adventures by giving us a peak at Indy and Marcus in
1930. If that weren't enough, the digest sized comic that is perfect
for all ages and brimming with adventure, has the intrepid
archaeologist, not yet a certified professor, hot on the trail of
ancient Norse artifacts that hold the secret the secret of transforming
mortals into "Odin's Men"! Throw in mentions of Indy's rival Forrestal
way before he saw the light and got the point (ouch), a beautiful
British archaologist and a certain French archeologist fans may know
and you have the makings of a great new Indy tale. Throw in some street
fights, treks a cross the globe, lost tombs and worst of all the
introduction to the Nazis and this four color adventure flies through
your fingers.
Dark Horse Comics writer, Phillip
Gelatt and artist Ethan Beavers collaborate to give Indy fans a great
new way to see Indy in action and here's to hoping that the adventures
continue in this format alongside the regular sized comic adventures
that await in Rob Williams' Tomb of the Gods miniseries due out
next week. We all know you can never have enough Indy action. Pick up
issue one of Indiana Jones Adventures for only $6.95 US today
at your local comicbook shops and bookstores!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Exclusive Indy
Vinyl Figures at IndianaJonesShop
09/07/08, 4:25pm EST
While
it's traditionally been difficult to pair up the words "Indiana Jones"
and "cute" in the same sentence, StarWars.com feels their use here is justified.
From PansonWorks Japan comes these, yes, cute soft vinyl Indiana Jones
figures, a U.S. IndianaJonesShop exclusive!
Measuring approximately 4.75 inches
tall, Indy and Henry would look perfect standing guard on your desk at
work, riding the dashboard in your car, or just keeping you company on
your trips abroad.
Head on over to IndianaJonesShop to pick up the Indiana Jones and Henry Jones exclusives today (available separately
or bundled)!
Source: StarWars.com
Posted by Gilles V
Kingdom of the
Crystal Skull on DVD
14/07/08, 3:53pm EST
Several
websites are spreading information on the Indiana Jones and the
Kingdom of the Crystal Skull DVD release. And while we are still
waiting for an official announcement from Paramount I assume that the
following collected info is reliable:
Release date:
The film is supposed to be released on DVD in October, aimed for a
worldwide release. The release in Australia is set for Thursday, 30
October 2008 while other sources claim other dates.
DVD/Blu-ray:
According to The Digital Bits, Indiana Jones 4 will
definitely be released on DVD, while Blu-ray is undecided at the moment.
Versions:
Apparently there are at least 2 different editions planned:
- Special Single Disc Edition
- Limited Edition 2 Disc Box Set plus BONUS Crystal Skull Replica.
And we may also see a 'Quadrilogy' Box
Set featuring all four Indy films.
View the German Amazon.de for photos of the Limited Edition 2 Disc
Box Set with BONUS Crystal Skull Replica.
Thanks to Heiko
Behrends, Rafael Montoya, '-Jones-' and other fans at The Raven for the heads up.
Sources: The Digital Bits, Amazon.de & ThrowMeTheIdol
Posted by Gilles V
Tomb of the Gods
Comic #1 Review
14/07/08, 6:00pm EST
The day started off great, with the mailman delivering not only the
LEGO BrickMaster exclusive Indy Jeep but the arrival of the "Peril in
Peru" set, and Indy keychain as well. Thursday, July 10th, was a great
day the sun was shining, the birds were singing and we were off to
keeping the tradition of seeing a birthday movie (and yes it is both
the "years and the mileage" when you turn 42) with another viewing of Kingdom
of the Crystal Skull. Today Indy 4 would be with the family
and it couldn't get any better than seeing it in New Haven, CT just
blocks away from the streets where the Crystal Skull car chase
was filmed and where I was born at Yale New Haven hospital over four
decades ago. The kids were having fun playing with the new Indiana
Jones Titanium cars found at Toys R Us just before the film and
after the credits rolled we stopped by The Alternate Universe comic
shop in New Haven to get the weekly supply of four color comic classics
and another treat that hadn't been possible for many years and Indy
comic book. While it wasn't as long a wait as the nineteen years for a
new Indy film, the sight of a new Dark Horse Comics' Indiana Jones book
was the end to an Indy-ish drought as well.
Tomb of the Gods #1
cover by Tony Harris. |
|
After my talks with author Rob
Williams at the New York ComicCon on the plot line of this new
mini-series and how it would fill in the gap between TOD and ROTLA,
I was curious to see what would happen. In addition, Rob promised the
return of Marcus Brody who would accompany Indy on his latest adventure
into Tibet, aw well as the return of those baddies everyone loves to
hate - the Nazis!
The artwork by artist Steve Scott, as
well as the inks from Nathan Massengill and coloring by Michael Atiyeh,
came together to produce an eye catching tale worthy of anything from
the lenses of Steven Spielberg. The great two page spread of 1936 New
York City's skyline under construction or as the book calls it; "the
architectural pinnacle of the western society's developments", makes
for a great backdrop. As Indy befriends Henrik Mellberg who holds an
artifact that is part of an important mystery that is also eagerly
pursued by the Ahnenrbe, the ancestral heritage branch of Hitler's SS
dedicated to archaeology surrounding the superiority of the Aryan race
and the occult. The two are chased by Nazis through the skeletal frame
of a new skyscraper reminiscent of the chase in Casino Royale,
but Indy being Indy manages to use his own bag of tricks to avoid
capture literally.
As I said, the art is great, barring
a strange panel of Indy at the bottom of page 6 (being a nitpicker, I
had to throw in some geek complaint), everyone looks great - especially
Marcus Brody who looks just like the late great, Denholm Mitchell
Elliott. Not to mention a female treasure hunter who provides this
comic with a great comic (excuse the pun) relief scene with Indy about
his whip. Let's hope that some of these new characters survive the
outcome and return to harass Indy in later adventures. With the gap
between Last Crusade and Crystal Skull wide open there
are many more stories to tell and characters to meet like General Ross,
Mac and even the "other" man in Marion's life, RAF pilot, Colin
Williams, so why not mix them all up to create a new world for Indiana
Jones.
While this book is a set up for a
much broader adventure yet to follow it does a great job at exposition
and laying out the framework while keeping the pacing fast and true to
the Indy film series that inspired it. All too often many of Indy's
comic adventures have been filled with huge amounts of dialogue and
little action, as if the writers were desperately trying create a tale
that would be of equal or greater in scope to Raiders of the Lost
Ark. Williams doesn't fall into that trap, and masterfully weaves
in his character introductions, "MacGuffin" information, "cliffhanging"
action and most of all humor with ease and grace. Best of all, we are
told that this latest artifact is something that should be remain
hidden and promises much despair for those who seek it just like the
Ark was (or rather will be for Indy as this is a prequel to Raiders,
after all). While I might be at a disadvantage than the average reader
for having been told by the author what lies ahead for Indy in his
quest for the "tomb of the Gods", I have to say this tale promises to
be a character changing event for our favorite globe-trotting
archaeologist. One that forces him to do some serious "soul" searching
and why does he do the things he does. If you want to hear more on this
check out my interview with Rob Williams on the Indy-Cast episode 27.
That is going to be it for this
review of Indiana Jones and the Tomb of the Gods #1 - do
yourself a favor and run out and get it the book ends with a BANG that
will bring a smile to any serial loving adventure tale!
Posted by the aging
rapidly Mitchell Hallock
Indiana Jones at
the San Diego Comic-Con
25/07/08, 2:07pm EST
While nothing can compare to the excitement of seeing Spielberg, Ford
and the cast of Indy 4 on screen for a live broadcast from
the set like last year's San Diego ComicCon, this year's mega-event is
not Indy free! Starting with collectibles the good folks at Hasbro,
Gentle Giant Sideshow and others will not disappoint Indy fans, though
it may deplete their bank accounts. A great big thanks to Dan Curto and
the gang at Cool Toy Review and other sites, like ComingSoon.net and Michael Crawford (Captain Toy), for showing fans
around the net these great images and making everyone feel as if they
were there in lovely San Diego.
Gentle Giant
Adding to their ever growing line of busts and statues, the gang at
Gentle Giant are adding Indy and his Dad with Nazi motorcycle from the Last
Crusade and adding a Short Round mini-bust to their collection
which includes a Raiders and Temple Indy.
Sideshow Collectibles
Belloq figure, photo by Cool Toy Review. |
|
That "other man with the hat" is
coming! That's right, the most evil man in white, Rene Belloq will be arriving in a 12" format from
Sideshow Collectibles to torment their already released Indiana Jones
figures. While the likeness to actor Paul Freeman is uncanny, only time
will tell if this figure includes a pocket watch that could become
priceless (like this figure), if buried in the sand for a thousand
years.
Sideshow is also coming out with a great Indy accessory to stand
alongside you Indy figure, namely the fertility idol and pedestal from Raiders,
and another Indiana Jones figure!
Kotobukiya
Last Crusade
statue. |
|
While the ARTFX Theatre Scene of Raiders
has been on the internet since the International Toy Fair, Indy fans
can also see the new Temple of Doom and Last Crusade statues, and even better order them! Entertainment Earth has images and is taking
pre-orders for the new Indy collectibles and they are great by
combining key characters and scenes from Indy's classic adventures!
Hasbro
The jungle diorama. |
|
Hasbro will be offering Indy fans to
go on their own quests and track down exclusives as they have been
doing to Star Wars fans for years. Images from the ComicCon of Indy Target exclusives
featuring scenes from the films like the Cairo/Henchmen Chase with
Indy, Marion, Monkey Man and Cairo baddies will be showing up as well
as a Last Crusade Tank Chase boxed set. The folks at Hasbro
are showing off their Indy wares with a giant Crystal Skull -
jungle diorama that will be a one of a kind collectible and the envy of
all Indy toy fans! There are more 12 figures coming like Indy in Nazi
outfit with bazooka, and new vehicle boxed sets with figures.
LEGO
The mysterious LEGO ComicCon Exclusive has been revealed and quickly
found its way to eBay! The set limited to only 500 was an Indy
figure in a jeep (apparently identical to the Brickmaster Club
exclusive) and two Ugha Warriors (found in the big Crystal Skull
LEGO set) and a ramps to jump over a "jungle" cliff. While this was
hard to get it is not that spectacular.
Indyfans on DVD
The long-awaited documentary on Indiana Jones fans from filmmaker
Brandon Kleyla will be hitting store shelves on Oct. 7th as it was announced at ComicCon. Brandon and the gang of
Indy fan-atics are on hand to talk about the film and meet the legion
of fedora-wearing faithful at ComicCon.
Doc Savage coming
to the silver screen
While this may not be a directly-related Indy news, it does have some
Indy connection!. As pulp fans know the legendary pulp hero Dr. Clark
Savage, the Man of Bronze, has inspired every hero from Superman, the
Shadow and of course Indiana Jones. Now word comes from Batman uber
producer, Michael Uslan, that Warner Brothers will be bringing the
adventures of the man of action to the big screen. One hopes that this
will be a serious treatment and nothing like that insipid, horrible
piece of film crap from the 1970s starring TV Tarzan, Ron
Ely, and also featured Magnum PI's Higgins in a supporting role.
Appearing on G4's Attack of the Show hosted by the one and only, vision
of beauty, goddess of geeks, dazzling damsel, luscious lovely, Olivia
Munn and Kevin Pereira, Uslan talked about what makes a good comic
film, like The Dark Knight, and talked about bringing Doc
Savage, the original he-man adventurer to the big screen. If
anyone has ever read these stories or seen the gorgeous covers by super
artist Bob Layton, you can see the Indy connection easily, especially
in the early Indy concept sketches by comic artist legend, Jim Steranko.
There will be more Indiana Jones news
from ComicCon so keep your eyes open and see what lies ahead!
Sources: Cool Toy Review, ComingSoon.net, Michael Crawford, Entertainment Earth & The
Raven
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Lost Ark Found in
the Mailbox
28/07/08, 8:33am EST
Arriving
home from a day at the beach and emptying out tons of sand from my
shoes, towels and everything else, I was stunned to find a box on the
driveway that was designed to look like a small wooden crate. This
cardboard oddity bore the Indiana Jones logo and the words; "Property
of Dr. Jones" and a familiar serial number.
Lo and behold, it had arrived! My very
own 12" Indiana Jones Exclusive Ark of the Covenant was now in my
possession. Who would have thought that such an object would be mine
and I would not have to face off against blood thirsty Nazis, thousands
of snakes, endure all sorts of dangers or trek across the world. No,
this plastic treasure was a simple matter of buying four 12" figures
and sending in the stickers, plus nominal fee for shipping and handling
and waiting patiently.
What a treasure this Ark is! It is
much larger than I expected and after carefully unwrapping the
packaging and putting in the carrying poles I looked at it in wonder
and amazement wondering what to do with it. Considering its size, my
wife suggested a pencil box or napkin holder!
We will have to wait and see what to
to do with this "lost" treasure! Now where's my Crystal Skull
alien and Adventure Heroes Indy on Horse we sent for as well!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Harrison Ford To
Sign Indy Photos For OfficialPix
20/08/08, 3:26pm EST
Official Pix, the only Lucasfilm approved and
licensed autograph photo company in the world, is very proud to
announce their next signing with blockbuster actor, Harrison Ford!
Mr. Ford will once again be signing
Official Pix licensed Han Solo and Indiana Jones photographs!
Both the 11x14 inch signed Star
Wars Han Solo and the 8x10 inch Indiana Jones images
will be come bagged, boarded, and include our numbered certificate of
authenticity (COA) and are expected to ship in late September. Both
images will be limited to just 50 autographs!
Official Pix will begin this pre-order
Thursday August 21st at 2pm Central Time at officialpix.com. Don't miss this last scheduled
signing opportunity with Mr. Ford for 2008!
Special thanks to Ben Stevens for the
news.
Posted by Gilles V
New Might Muggs at
Indiana Jones Shop
28/08/08, 4:01pm EST
The IndianaJonesShop.com has not only added the
pre-order for the Crystal Skull DVD and Blu-Ray but also has
added some of those really creepy-looking Mighty Muggs including Tot,
Young Indy Boy Scout, Satipo, Spalko and the ever dapper - Indy in
Tuxedo!
Order before they roll away -- and
they can - just look at their heads!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Marvel Indiana
Jones Omnibus: Volume 1
10/09/08, 5:09pm EST
Great
news for the fans of the Indy comic books. I've just been informed by
'Yodazone' that Dark Horse has released its solicitation for the Marvel
Indy Omnibus Volume 1!
Marvel Omnibus Vol. 1. |
|
Written by Walt Simonson, John
Byrne, Denny O'Neil, David Michelinie and Archie Goodwin, art by Byrne,
Howard Chaykin, Klaus Janson, Terry Austin and others.
Join comics luminaries Walt
Simonson, John Byrne, Archie Goodwin, and Howard Chaykin, among others,
in the very first appearances of the esteemed professor on the
comic-book page! Weighing in at a hefty three hundred and sixty-eight
pages, this tome collects the first twelve issues of the 1980s ongoing
series -- along with the adaptation of Raiders of the Lost Ark
-- for the very first time. And David Michelinie, the writer who would
go on to pen most of Indy's four-color adventures, begins his
imaginative run here! Fans of the films won't want to miss these
classic tales that extend the Indiana Jones mythos beyond the silver
screen.
368 pages, $24.95, in stores on Feb.
18.
And don't forget that part two of Dark
Horse's Indiana Jones and the Tomb of the Gods adventure
is out in comic book stores as of today.
Thanks to Yodazone for the news.
Posted by Gilles V
Review of Tomb
of the Gods #2
18/09/08, 5:22pm EST
Issue #3 cover art
by Tony Harris. |
|
While it was nowhere near the nineteen year wait that Indyfans had to
endure between Indy's big screen adventures, the second issue seemed to
take as long to get here as the Grail Knight had to wait for someone to
come along and challenge him! But Rob Williams' second issue of Indiana
Jones and the Tomb of the Gods was well worth the several month
wait since we saw Indy back in four color printed glory in issue one
back in June.
Without giving too much away, let's
say that the story is quite clever in showing how Indy and Marcus
survived their bombastic encounter at the end of issue one. Okay, on
that note, Mr. Williams is staying true to the film serials that
inspired Indy in the first place, as we see our heroes survive, but
exactly how, is a mystery -- I guess we are like the kid viewers from
decades ago that kind of forget all the details from the last episode.
Indy and Marcus meet up with
Beresford-Hope's son in Tibet, and quickly take "flight" from more bad
guys, and its not the Nazis -- (boy Indy has a lot of enemies).
Thankfully, Indy and Marcus encounter a familiar face from Indy's big
screen adventures and "take off" (have I given enough hints, yet) to
Shanghi, China (no stops at the Club Obi Wan this time).
Then its off to the high seas where
our hero encounters the sexy Miss Janice Le Roi, in pursuit of the
clues that will take Indy on a soul-searching quest for the Tomb
of the Gods. All this, and an ending that makes Indy get tangled
up with a menace that is another tip of the fedora to a certain
Spielberg film classic (and no it isn't Hook) and you have
the makings of a great story.
Readers can raid the racks of their
corner comic shop right now to get their hands on Tomb of the Gods #2
from Dark Horse Comics ($2.99 US). Let's hope issue3 # is here before
year's end!
Special thanks to 'Yodazone' for the
cover of the third issue, drawn by Tony Harris. The cover for issue #3
was first show at Tomb of the Gods writer Rob
Williams' personal blog.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones
and the Army of the Dead
18/09/08, 5:51pm EST
StarWars.com just announced - out of the blue -
that the Indiana Jones adventure will continue with a new, original
novel from bestselling author Steve Perry. It will be available from
Del Rey Books in May 2009.
There's no rest for the weary
treasure hunter, but that's how Indiana Jones likes it. Fresh from
spying for the Allies in the thick of World War II Germany, the
globe-trotting archaeologist doesn't need much persuading to join his
cohort "Mac" McHale in searching for one of the most coveted of
artifacts: the fabled black pearl known as the Heart of Darkness. But
the partners in adventure are not alone on their foray into the
mysterious jungles of Haiti. German and Japanese agents are in hot
pursuit, determined to possess the ebony artifact -- and its secrets --
for their own sinister purposes. And shadowing them all is an infamous
voodoo priest, with powers of both diabolical science and black magic
at his command.
On a treacherous odyssey across the
Island of the Dead, where the legend of zombi looms large, spiders,
snakes, and booby-traps will prove the least of Indy's challenges. And
capturing the prize will be child's play compared with confronting an
enemy unlike any other, whose numbers are legion and nearly impossible
to kill -- because they're already dead...
Aha, we're getting our first post
World War II Indy adventure co-starring "triple agent" George 'Mac'
McHale. Should be fun!
Thanks to 'Skylover' for the article
link.
Source: StarWars.com
Posted by Gilles V
Bearing with Indy
20/09/08, 4:40pm EST
If
pocket watches die cast metal cars and big-eyed one coin figures
bearing the name or likeness of Indiana Jones are your thing than I
have something for you!. Found once again in the electronic marketplace
that is eBay, I happened across some interesting figures from Kubrick,
namely their Be@rbrick line, namely Indiana Jones and the Golden Idol.
Kubrick's Indy boxed. |
|
Standing almost twice the size of a
standard Indy LEGO figure, this articulated Indy and his treasure are
rather unique. Lets start with the Golden Idol Bearbrick, that "bears"
a remarkable resemblance to the Chachaopyian fertility idol from Raiders
of the Lost Ark or in this case "Raibears of the Lost Ark". it has
the famed toothy grin and big eyes, and at the waist, a small child's
(or cub) face peering out. The back includes details like the Indiana
Jones logo and markings to give it the look of hair or rather "golden
locks". In fact, if one removed the legs arms and ears it would look
exactly like the statue from Raiders. But who would do such a "grizzly"
thing to a collectible?
Now on to the papa bear in this set,
Indiana Jones himself. Armed with Indy's tools of the trade, a
removable fedora, whip, revolver and machete, this Kubrick is ready for
action. Somewhat larger than the Star Wars Kubrick figures I
own this figure does have the same detail and articulation one would
expect from the Kubrick line. As with many Kubrick's Indy's hair is
attached to the hat, so one can remove the fedora give Indy into more
of a "Dr. Evil" look. The whip fits nicely, as does the machete but the
revolver easily falls out and would be quickly lost in the wrong hands.
Oh whom am I kidding this sucker is never leaving my Indy collection
and into anyone's hands after I take some pictures of it. I wouldn't
mine seeing the good folks at Kubrick do more Indy's and his supporting
cast in the future though I Short Round would have to be scaled down.
That is the only set back with this set, the Golden Idol is the same
size as Indy. Perhaps if I purchased the 400% sized Kubrick Indy it
would fit alongside it better.
All in all, this new addition to my
collection will look fine alongside the Indy incarnations from LEGO,
Kotobukiya, Hasbro, Kermit Indy, and even the Disney Mickey Mouse Indy
I have.
So if you are looking for one, head
on over to Hong Kong or if you want to save on airfare, eBay is the way
to go.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones
Masterpieces
23/09/08, 3:41pm EST
Masterpieces advert. |
|
Topps has released the advertisements for their
new Indiana Jones Masterpieces trading cards. The new Masterpieces
collection features newly commissioned art, the best in Indiana Jones
Comic Book art from Marvel and Dark Horse Comics, rare authentic
autograph cards signed by George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, and for
the first time ever panoramic sketch cards.
You can view the advertisements online
at Les David's Throw
Me The Idol collectibles website.
The Indiana Jones Masterpieces trading
cards will start shipping in November.
Posted by Gilles V
Indiana Jones: The
Complete Soundtrack Collection
23/09/08, 4:25pm EST
On
November 11th, Concord Records will release "Indiana Jones: The
Complete Soundtracks Collection", a 5 CD limited edition boxed set
including expanded editions of the Indiana Jones trilogy as well as the
original soundtrack release of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
plus a bonus interview CD with composer John Williams on the making of
this historic music.
Here follows the official press
release:
For the first time ever all four
Indiana Jones soundtrack albums are available in this limited edition
collectible CD boxed set! Included are expanded and remastered versions
of Raiders of the Lost Ark, and exclusive to this set: Indiana
Jones & The Temple Doom, and Indiana Jones & The Last
Crusade. This set also includes the Indiana Jones and the
Kingdom of the Crystal Skull soundtrack plus a bonus interview CD
with composer John Williams on the making of this historic music.
Housed in a handsome embossed slip case and presented with a full color
booklet, this set reintroduces the iconic original Indiana Jones film
scores by Oscar-winning composer John Williams - out of print since
1995! A must for fans and collectors alike, all will rejoice in having
all these soundtracks presented together expanded with previously
unreleased music - along with this summer's blockbuster Indiana
Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull available together for
the very first time. Relive the musical adventure today!
And Concord Records is also planning
to release the expanded and remastered edition of Raiders of the
Lost Ark separately on October 14th.
- First time available on CD in 12
years!
- Digitally remastered from the original tapes.
- Booklet includes rare photographs.
- Original album artwork faithfully reproduced.
- Liner notes include a special note from Steven Spielberg.
For more information, visit the John Williams Fan Network.
Thanks to Don Zahorick, Journey Myers,
David Strohmenger, and JWFan.com
for the news.
Posted by Gilles V
Hasbro's Indy Toy
Line Future Looks Dark
30/09/08, 3:57pm EST
News revealed during Q&A session with Cool Toy Review.
Hasbro recently mentioned in a Q&A
session with Cool Toy Review that it is highly unlikely that
their Indiana Jones line "will continue significantly beyond the
holidays this year."
Here follows one of the Indy questions
to Hasbro:
Cool Toy Review:
Would you consider continuing the line as online exclusives with a
higher per-figure price if it is not feasible to continue the line at
stores like Wal-Mart and Target? In order to get figures like Oxley,
Mac, Donovan, and Marcus collectors would be willing to pay more.
Hasbro: "It would not be possible to continue the line in this
manner, since the size of the IJ collector base is not enough to
sustain development work and production volumes by itself."
Visit Cool Toy Review to read the full Q&A session
with Hasbro.
Thanks to Matt Foster for the heads up.
Posted by Gilles V
Tomb of the Gods
Issue #3 Sneak Peak
05/10/08, 1:39pm EST
Issue #3 preview. |
|
The good folks at Dark Horse Comics have let Indy comic fans see what
lies ahead issue # 3 that is due in November. Check out the synopsis
below and some preview artwork at Dark Horse Comics site as well!
Indiana Jones and the Tomb of
the Gods #3 will arrive in stores on Nov. 12 from Dark Horse
Comics. The issue is written by Rob Williams, with art by Steve Scott.
"Once again, archaeologist and
self-stated preserver of history Dr. Henry Jones Jr. is on the trail of
something colossal. With exotic locations, natural disasters, wild
animals, ever-pesky Nazis, and a beautiful fortune hunter, Indy's quest
for the Tomb of the Gods could be his most amazing and historically
disturbing escapade ever!"
Indiana Jones and the Tomb of
the Gods #3 will be 40 pages and will cost $2.99.
Source: Dark Horse Comics and Comics Continuum
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones 4
DVD and Blu-ray Exclusives
10/10/08, 3:41pm EST
With
the US release of the Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal
Skull DVD and Blu-ray next week, five chains in the USA will each
offer an exclusive bonus to the package!
- Kmart & Sears
will be giving away four Exclusive LEGO mini-posters. Each poster is a
LEGO replica of an original Indiana Jones theatrical poster.
- Circuit City will
have two lithographs of concept art from Kingdom of the Crystal
Skull.
- Target is
exclusively packaged with a hardcover book from Palace Press with 80
pages of behind the scenes photos, including many
never-before-published images.
- Trans World will
have exclusive Steelbook Packaging.
- Best Buy offers a
gift set that includes a replica crystal skull from Sideshow
Collectibles and a $25 gift card to Sideshowcollectibles.com.
Two Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
DVD and Blu-ray reviews can be found at DVDBeaver.com and High Dev
Disc News.
Thanks to Joshua Thomas, Christian
Villarreal and Mitchell Hallock for the info.
Additional sources: /Film, IndianaJones.es, and ThrowMeTheIdol.com.
Posted by Gilles V
Whip Tooth Decay
Away With the Indy Tunebrush
18/10/08, 10:44am
EST
How
many times have you hummed the Indy theme song when brushing your
teeth? Well, modern technology has made that process a little easier
with the introduction of Hasbro's Turbo Tooth Tunes singing toothbrush! That's right
if teeth cleaning has a name it must be... Indiana Jones. I wish I had
this when I was eating all those Indy snacks back in Springtime...
maybe I would not have had that root canal!
Here's more info from Hasbro Toys Shop:
Rock your teeth clean - and
encourage better brushing habits! - with this exciting toothbrush that
lets you hear one of your favorite songs while you brush! Turbo-charged
with improved sound technology, this cool toothbrush sends sound
vibrations streaming from the bristles through your teeth - so you can
actually hear music inside your head! Just press the button, wait for
the beep and brush away! To increase the volume, simply increase your
brushing pressure! If you brush well, you get great sound, and you'll
actually hear two full minutes of exciting Indiana Jones music and
classic movie phrases!
Now why hasn't there been a Jaws
version of this musical toothbrush -- now that seems like a no brainer
to me!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Noble Collection
Unveils New Indy Treasures
28/10/08, 11:56am
EST
The Noble Collection has offered the famed Indiana
Jones bullwhip for several months, but now just before the holiday
season gets into full swing they have added to their Indiana Jones line
of products. Indyfans (or their friends looking for a special gift) can
choose wisely from a wide array of high quality offerings such as the
Headpiece to the Staff of Ra, Mutt's sword, Indy's machete, and a cool
set of both those aforementioned items done as letter openers (or if
you want to detail your 1/6 scale Indy figures).
These look great - the craftsmanship
of the Noble Collection goes to extreme lengths - even the cases some
of the pieces come in are fantastic! So, start dropping those holiday
gift hints or better yet - buy it yourself!
Check out all the offerings and
details at: The Noble Collection.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy Toys Live On
in LEGO Form
28/10/08, 11:58am
EST
The
great folks at LEGO are keeping Indy moving. 2009 will give Indy brick
building fans a chance to create the famed Flying Wing battle from Raiders
of the Lost Ark and the Shanghai Car Chase with Willie and Short
Round from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.
Thanks to Les at Throwmetheidol.com
for discovering these new finds and posting the box shots.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy: Photographic
Journal Review
29/10/08, 12:54pm
EST
On
a dreary, rainy fall day in Connecticut there was a ray of sunshine
when I heard the sound of Mark the Mailman's truck outside. My dog,
Indiana raced to the door looking for the treats that our mailman
throws out to his four-legged fans, but I was the one who received a
bigger treat from Amazon.com with the arrival of: Indiana Jones
and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - A Photographic Journal by
David James.
I opened the rain covered box and just
gazed at the great shot of the silhouetted Indy looking down on the
valley that holds Doomtown in the early morning desert sunrise. I then
started to flip through the pages, stopping at a great shot of
Spielberg and Shia taken at the nearby Essex Connecticut Steam
Trainstation. Shia is busy playing with a yo-yo as Steven is deep in
thought on th next shot - or catching some shut-eye! There is a
Foreword by Harrison Ford, and though it wasn't as long and as wordy as
Spielberg's preface piece, Ford sums up the genius of David James work
in just a few words; "... David (James) was there
... discreet. squeezing in at the right moment for the right shot...
and (you) never noticed he was there."
And that is what this collection is -
great shots of the most talented team of filmmakers in the past 40
years coming together to have fun! Plus, it provides so many iconic
shots of Ford as Indiana Jones done in shadows and silhouettes that it
elevates the character to new heights of modern myth-making - he
appears to be more like an American legend from the old West than a
matinée movie hero. Fans will also get a smile at some of
James's candid camera focused on the creators of Indy. Like the fun
shot of Lucas and Spielberg driving down the New Mexican highway in a
50s hot rod. They look more like TV's Happy Days' Richie and
Potsie having a joy ride rather than two billionaire filmmakers.
Some amazing imagery like the hubcap
reflection of Spielberg in the desert with the actors and crew behind
him, and a shot of David James taking the photo. Behind the scenes
shots of Willie Scott herself (aka Mrs. Spielberg - Kate Capshaw)
turning the camera on to Steven as they relax between shots. Amazing
detail of Indy's classroom and pieces of his collection. An amusing
shot of George Lucas standing in the Saint Anthony Mental Asylum set
(he no nut, he's crazy). A series of Cate Blanchett photos as Irina
Spalko that look like they came from a villian-esque issue of Vogue
magazine rather than a rough and ready action film like Indy 4.
The book is simply a treat for the
eyes, and one that no true Indyfan can be without. The only criticisms
I have are just two - one minor and one major - the book states the
crew landed at Bradley, Connecticut on their way to Yale in New Haven
-- correction; it is Bradley Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
Okay, that was the minor, the major criticism is just this -- I want
more and I mean that in the best way possible. Like the brilliant
documentaries on the DVD of Crystal Skull, it is just
fascinating to get glimpses of these film artists at work (and play). I
enjoyed every page of this book, and cannot recommend it enough. Every
photo is a treasure and the journal entries that go along with each
section (broken down by set locations) are equally as entertaining.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of
the Crystal Skull - A Photographic Journal by David James is
published by Insight Editions and is available now for $29.95 US.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy Bank - A
Place to Store Those "Bad Pennies"
30/10/08, 12:10pm
EST
Raiders Figural
Bank. |
|
Diamond Distributors and the Indiana Jones Shop are offering Indyfans a chance
to save their money for a rainy day, or more Indiana Jones
collectibles, and have fun doing it with the Indy Bank. This latest
Indy collectible stands almost a foot high and has the famed adventurer
in a classic pose with whip overhead ready to take on the bad guys --
or anyone trying to get your treasure. As a bonus, you can turn the
knob and have the famed Fertility Idol do a "now you see it and now you
don't" move without the fear of your roof caning in or a giant boulder
to roll you over. The Indy Bank joins there other offering to keep your
money safe, and that is a replica of the aforementioned Fertility Idol.
With the ups and downs of the markets and the roller coaster of an
economy, I can think of no safer place to keep your hard earned cash
than the Indiana Jones Bank!
Available for order through Comic
shops and at the Indiana Jones Shop.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Toy Review:
Crystal Skull Adventure Projector
07/11/08, 11:39am
EST
While
the holidays are less than two months away, what better time to start
looking at some of the cool new Indiana Jones toys that will surprise
Indyfans young and old. The folks at Uncle Milton have been delighting
kids with their creative toys that not only teach but are great to play
with. Now these folks who in the past have brought ant farms, frog
habitats and other such items to market have teamed up with the man of
action, Indiana Jones, for four new offerings.
Let's start with Indy's latest film
for inspiring this cool new way of looking act archeology: Indiana
Jones Crystal Skull Adventure Projector
Holding the detailed replica of the Crystal
Skull I could feel the thrill of adventure begin to tingle, better
yet, all my Indy senses were working because I could see and hear the
adventures of Indiana Jones thanks to the folks at Uncle
Milton's Toys.
The packaging is done in the banner
packaging that has surrounded all of the Indiana Jones products this
year, with the Indy/Struzan Last Crusade face looking out and
the whip framing the familiar Indy logo. The Uncle Milton folks have
transformed Indy's image on the Crystal Skull Adventure Projector to
take the form of a younger Indy, as the box show's a fedora wearing boy
gazing at the famed archeologist's adventures by using the power of the
"crystal skull".
Not only can you use the three slides,
each containing eight images of Indy's big screen adventures mixed in
with real world archaeological finds, you can hear about them as well.
Always, one to entertain as well as educate the folks at Uncle Milton
are delivering a great Indy collectible and learning toy.
By inserting the special CD that is
included with the projector you can its "mythical power" to hear
Indiana Jones himself narrate the finds he has made in his career
(fedoras off to the voice over actor who captures Harrison Ford's
laconic cadence in his delivery), and learn about the real perils and
treasures that have been found. From Indy's reminiscing about finding
the Ark, Temple of Doom, Holy Grail and Crystal Skull, the viewer also
learns about Aztecs, hieroglyphs, the Mitchell-Hedges crystal skull,
tomb raiding, and more. The fun for me came when the sound of a whip
crack is used as the indicator to move onto the next slide. If you are
an old coot like me, you may recall the days in school watching slide
shows and waiting for the "beep" to advance the slide (usually finding
out at the end that you were a few slides behind).
The Indiana Jones Crystal Skull
Adventure Projector is a great way to introduce younger adventurers
(the box recommends it for ages 8 and up) to the world of Indiana Jones
and archeology. Even older Indy fans will get a kick at possessing the
projecting powers of the "Projecting Crystal Skull" and may learn a
thing or two themselves - and best of all you learn it from the
professor himself - just like you were a student in Archeology 101 at
Marshall College!
The Uncle Milton Crystal Skull
Adventure Skull will make a great holiday gift for Indyfans is
available now at Toys "R" Us, Target, Amazon and stores across the
country. SRP: $39.99
To learn more, visit: Uncle
Milton's Indiana Jones Toys
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Toy Review: Why
did it have to be Giant RC Ants!
07/11/08, 11:41am
EST
If
you thought Colonel Dovchenko had a tough time with ants in this
summer's Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,
wait until you see the size of the new Giant RC (Remote Control) Ant
from Uncle
Milton's Indy toy line.
The brown window box, done in the
familiar Indiana Jones packaging, lets you see what you are going to
get…and it's a doosie! This super-sized insect comes with a "crystal
skull" remote control that allows you to rotate the direction with one
eye button and send it forward with the other eye. In addition, as this
six-legged terror scurries across your floor, its mandibles move back
and forth for added realism.
Knowing the full test of this
scariness of having a giant ant running around the house would involve
bothering our Golden Retriever, the boys and I set out to do just that.
Poor Indiana, just as he was settling in for his sixth nap of the day,
he was forced awake when the giant ant started to head towards him with
mandibles moving in for a pinching attack. This was followed by a chase
around the house and ultimately ending with our dog barking a warning
at this buggy intruder.
The Indiana Jones Giant RC Ant would
not be a true learning toy without containing some cool facts about
this bug's life. Included with the RC ant was a booklet from the "field
notebook of Indiana Jones" written in Indy's own hand, centering on the
subject of "Amazing Ant Facts". Inside these pages you will learn that
the jaws of a Trap Jaw Ant shut at speeds approaching 45 MPH! Or that
Army Ants can swarm in troops approaching 200,000! I won't even tell
you what Indiana Jones did with a Honey-Pot Ant (hint: think
Winnie-the-Pooh).
What would be real cool is if Santa or
someone you know would bring you about a hundred of these bad boys and
you can recreate the ant scene from Crystal Skull! As with
all the Uncle Milton toys this RC Ant is fun to play with and comes
with some interesting facts that you can learn along the way. You never
know, it might help you pass your next entomology exam or come in handy
as you go on your own quest for a lost relic!
The Giant RC Ant from Uncle
Milton is available now at fine stores near you and online.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Toy Review: Lost
City Archeology Dig
07/11/08, 11:42am
EST
Every
dream of digging up lost artifacts? A mummy? Maybe even one of the
famous Crystal Skulls? How about discovering a "lost city"? Well now
you can without spending a fortune on airfare and worrying about deadly
snakes, ants, rats or bad guys. Best of all you can find these items
from the comfort of your tabletop with the Indiana Jones Lost City
Archeology Dig from the gang at Uncle
Milton Industries.
The box art shows an Indiana Jones
looking character complete with whip, uncovering a "crystal skull"
alongside some bones, a mummy and other assorted relics. Inside there
is a somewhat heavy looking frame with detailed moldings. It looks like
a cross between the Akator Temple and graveyard that Indy and Mutt
visited in this year's Crystal Skull movie but is called "El Castillo"
in this adventure. The set also contains a "field journal" from Dr.
Henry Jones, Jr. himself, so that you can read about places like
Stonehenge and the real El Castillo in the Yucatan, as well as the
tools used in digs and write down what you dig up.
Digging away! |
|
But enough with the talk, I wanted to
start searching for my "fortune and glory"! So armed with my
handy-dandy scraping tool, I set out to find what lies beneath! The
material you scrap away in your search for the lost city is like dried
up "moon sand", anyone with children will know what I am talking about.
After just a few scraps in the upper right corner, I began to uncover
the goods. Was it a mummy? Gold coins? Forgotten treasure? A 1951
Mickey Mantle Rookie Baseball Card? My old car keys? Or better yet - a
crystal skull - that lights up?
I wouldn't want to spoil the fun of
discovery and tell you what I found in this "lost city" dig from the
Indiana Jones toy line from Uncle Milton. Let's just say, it's a fun,
and best of all I didn't get my fedora dirty and when the dig was
finished, I had a cool plaque to hang on the wall. With it's cool
details and small pieces of treasures and skulls, it fits in perfectly
next to my Gentle Giant Indy busts, Indy action figures, Dr. Pepper
cans, toy cars, Sideshow Crystal Skull, Lego Crystal Skull, Crystal
Skull Projector, Crystal Skeleton action figure, and Crystal Head Vodka
- (thanks Dan Aykroyd) - and all the other stuff.
Indyfans will have a great time
digging around and humming the Raiders' march as they find the
artifacts that belong in a museum with this cool toy.
You can find and the other Uncle
Milton toys available at major stores, as online exclusives like: TRU.com, Amazon.com, Target.com and eToys.
You can see the Lost City and the other Indy at their website: www.unclemilton.com
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Toy Review: Room
Booby Trap Set
10/11/08, 1:40pm EST
Every
wish that you had an elaborate security system in your room that was
like the Peruvian Temple from the opening in Indiana Jones first, and
best big screen adventure; Raiders of the Lost Ark? Well,
your wishes have been answered thanks to the creative minds at Uncle
Milton Industries! The Indiana Jones Room Guard will make sure that any
unwanted intruder who enters your inner sanctum will be met with flying
projectiles and a host of spiders popping out at them (sorry, kids but
there is no two ton, giant rolling boulder included with this set).
The presentation of this nifty novelty
is great, just like the other items in the Uncle
Milton Indy toy line. It depicts a would be Indiana Jones, albeit
one who looks about nine years old, running from the devices set off by
trespassing a room protected by the "room guard". The box artwork looks
like it came right off a cover from a lost DVD episode of the Young
Indiana Jones Chronicles, but a lot more exciting than those shows
were (ouch), The craftsmanship does not end with the packaging, but
continues in the highly detailed moldings on the room guards
themselves. These two pieces are just as detailed as anything that came
from the props department at Lucasfilm's ILM. The stone idol heads,
have the familiar Indy-esque look, reminiscent of the figures seen at
the opening of Raiders that have birds flying out of the mouth when a
guide hacks a vine off that was hiding it from view. The detail work
goes as far as having small vines draped across the figures!
After a few turns of the clamps that
hold these room guardians in place, I was ready to test it out on a
unsuspecting intruder, in this case my wife. Let's just say that the
devices worked perfectly as she triggered the spider-laden room guard
that had the eight legged creepy crawlies come flying out and then
banged right into the other room guard that shot projectiles from it's
eye sockets. Needless to say the sounds of screaming heard at our home
rivaled anything that came out of the mouth of Willie Scott, the Queen
of Scream from Temple of Doom. In addition, there were other
words that followed her fright that also were never heard in the Indy
films!
The Indy room guard would not be an
Uncle Milton toy if it did not include some educational aspect, and
this one does as you can read pages and look at diagrams form the
"field notebook" of Indiana Jones and learn all about the workings of
levers, fulcrums and other such devices and how they are used to make
booby traps work.
The Indiana Jones Room Guard set make
a fine addition to any Indyfans collection, heck you can even set up to
protect your collection! Even better, if you are feeling adventurous,
you can put on your own fedora and whip and reenact Indy's daring
escapes from booby traps in the privacy of your home. It's a great toy
for kids and their parents, or any one that wants to walk, or rather
run in the steps of the famous archaeologist, Indiana Jones!
You can find the Room Guard and the
other Indiana Jones/Uncle Milton toys available at major stores as
online exclusives like: TRU.com,
Amazon.com, Target.com and eToys.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Borders' Ultimate
Fedora Collection Gift Set
12/11/08, 12:55pm
EST
The "Ultimate Fedora Collection" Box. |
|
What's that you say, you have an Indyfan on your holiday gift list and
can't think of a thing to buy him or her? Well, If gift giving has a
name... it must be The Ultimate Fedora Collection exclusive
DVD set and hat at Borders. I spied this baby at behind the checkout
counter at my local Borders' today, and asked the kind clerk for a
picture - sorry about the overhead glare - the box has the 4 disc Indy
box set containing: Raiders, Temple, Crusade
and Skull and comes with the Indiana Jones Fedora. Now the
asking price on this was $109.00, and it had a 20% off sticker.
So just in case you don't have all the
films yet on DVD (shame on you) and you want to watch them with a
little extra head gear on... this Borders box set is just the ticket.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Review: Indiana
Jones; The Soundtracks Collection
13/11/08, 1:50pm EST
John
Williams is a genius.
Given that as a basis for listening to
Indiana Jones: The Soundtracks
Collection by Concorde Music Group prepares the listener by
letting him/her know that everything that emerges from the speakers is
a sheer pleasure. Having been a fan of Williams music since I was a kid
in the summer of 1975 when the thought of going near any body of water
whether it be a sink or a lake was always accompanied by the famed
"Da-Dum-Da-Dum" of Jaws. The soundtrack of my mind has been
populated by the famed Star Wars, Superman, Close
Encounters, and so many other great collaborations between
celluloid and sound by Mr. Williams that I cannot think of any movie
going experience in the past thirty without instantly hearing a full
orchestra. So, I was eager to unwrap the latest package from Amazon
containing the great new collected soundtracks of all the Indy films,
many not available on CD in years, and contains a great deal of
unreleased pieces including a bonus interview disc with the Maestro,
George Lucas and Steven Spielberg.
Combine the energy of Williams with
Indiana Jones and you have a match made in movie going heaven. As
Williams explains on the great bonus CD that contains interviews
conducted by Spielberg documentation, Laurent Bouzereau, the Indy films
always felt like they were going "90 m.p.h. from beginning to end" and
he rose to the occasion to create scores that match the Indy films
scene for scene. Plus, discover the origins of the familiar "Raiders'
March" that was a "two for the price of one" treat from John Williams
to Steven Spielberg.
I took a few minutes to admire the
great care and design that went into the packaging of this boxed set
from the textured outer box with gold lettering to the fantastic CD
artwork of each of the "MacGuffin" on their respective film scores.
Each disc contains a booklet with images of the films, many not scene
before, and a letter from Steven Spielberg talking about how Williams
music drove that particular film, a list of all the musicians that
performed on that soundtrack, and track listings. Any Indyfans will
have a great time just flipping through the booklets and recalling the
films and the scenes.
Moving beyond the packaging, the big
question is; "How do they sound?"
Fantastic. My favorite disc is the
collection of previously unreleased material that is on the bonus
interview disc that contains ten tracks, mostly from Temple and
Crusade. With it cranked up to the
number "11" button as I type this review, I am immersed in the world of
Indiana Jones, albeit only in audio form, but what a world it is. From
the complete otherworldly, and awe-inspiring music from the "Uncovering
the Ark" to the pensiveness of "The Secret Passage" from Temple,
I can almost feel the cool mist of the caverns that lie below Pankot
Palace and the dread that waits around the next bend.
The strings, percussions, wind
instruments and vocals that combine to add that layer of sound that
almost felt it had come from Ben Burtt's sound effects group is the
real "musical miracle" that John Williams' scores for the Indy films is
what makes this set so great. The quality is so vibrant and may I say,
"alive" that it has become it's own being or "force" of sound that
transcends so many other film scores. The listener almost is felled to
start "moving", as Williams points out on the interview CD. You want to
start to accelerate and start searching for some hidden treasures. On a
personal note; I always credit Williams' Last Crusade "Scherzo
for Motorcycle and Orchestra" that was playing on my car cassette
player way back in May 1998 when I was driving my wife, who was in
labor, to the hospital and miraculously avoided the typical bumper to
bumper early morning commuter traffic heading towards New York! We made
it in to the delivery room and her water broke five minutes later, I
remember the nurse commenting that I was lucky to make it just in the
"nick of time" -(Thanks. Mr. Williams!)
I could go on for pages to describe
how wonderful it is to finally have all of these Indiana Jones
soundtracks available, but any Indy fan can tell you that. Indiana
Jones: The Soundtracks Collection is a wonderful gift to fans of
soundtracks, action films, Indiana Jones, and of course great music.
Just listening to the familiar the triumphant trumpets of the "Raiders'
March" will put a smile on your face and a spring in your step. So, do
your self a favor and put this one on your wish list and in your music
library. As George Lucas says in the interview; "... I just sat back
and watched great artist at work, from great directing, great writing
to especially the great music. I didn't have to do anything but say
"that's fantastic".
And by George, he's right!
Indiana Jones: The Soundtracks
Collection is available now from Concord Music.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indy and the
Army of the Dead Cover Art
17/11/08, 2:18pm EST
Book cover. |
|
2009 may not give us a new Indy film, but it will give Indy fans the
chance to see the Man with the Hat back in action.
The new Indiana Jones novel that
takes place before the events of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,
has Indy alongside George "Mac" MacHale in a new adventure by author
Steve Perry. The cover for this new book which we hope is the start of
a new series of Indy novels will be out next Spring.
Source: Amazon.com
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
New Indy Books
Hitting Shelves
19/11/08, 12:49pm
EST
It
seems that Indiana Jones is alive in well in the literary world with
several new books showing upon Amazon.com besides next Spring's Indiana
Jones and the Army of the Dead. From Dark Horse's Indiana
Jones Adventures #2 to the new book based on the Top Trumps
playing cards it seems Indy fans will be adding to their library. One
of the newer Indy books is already available, except only in the UK
apparently. The book The Greatest Adventures of Indiana Jones
details the life of everyone's favorite archaeologist through photos
ands and souvenirs collected through his life. Like a companion piece
to The Lost Journal of Indiana Jones this book even features
the wedding invitation of Marion and Indy's nuptials! Hopefully, one of
a copy of one of this book will make its way "across the pond" to the
States so I have it "in my hands".
Here are some links to the forthcoming
Indy books:
Thanks to The Raven
member 'Walker' and Les at ThrowMeTheIdol for the heads up.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Last Crusade
ARTFX Going the Way of the Dodo
19/11/08, 12:56pm
EST
As
they say at the end of Bernard Malmud's classic, The Natural;
"say it ain't so..." It looks like Hasbro isn't the only Indy tie-in
merchandiser to throw in the the towel. ThrowMeTheIdol
reports that Kotobukiya is not going forward with its line of ARTFX
statues, and ending after the Temple of Doom piece currently
shipping. Here's what Les a ThrowMeTheIdol received:
To our valued customers,
We are sorry to inform you that due
to various reasons we have decided not to release the INDIANA JONES
ARTFX THEATRE LAST CRUSADE, initially planned to be released this
December.
We sincerely apologize to all our fans, customers and distributors for
any inconvenience that we may have caused.
Sincerely,
Kotobukiya Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
International Sales and Marketing
Here's to hoping that like a bad
penny, Indy toys and products start turning up again soon! Maybe when Indy
5 comes around!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Sideshow 12" Toht
Figure Coming Soon
23/11/08, 4:54am EST
With
the Sideshow 12" Indiana Jones showing up on doorsteps this week, what
else could be cooler? How about a 12" Arnold
Toht! That's right the evil that actor Ronald Lacey brought to life
and then melted away into movie history will be up for pre-order soon.
Here's hoping a 12" Mola Ram is not far behind.
Source: Sideshow
Collectibles
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones
Masterpieces Sketchards
23/11/08, 5:15am EST
Topps' Indiana Jones
Masterpieces cards will arrive in stores during the first week of
December. Just in time for Christmas shopping.
Artist Patrick Schoenmaker has posted
images of his batch of 50 new amazing sketchcards for the upcoming
Indiana Jones Masterpieces set online on his The
Trumpet Parade blog. Definitely worth checking out!
Posted by Gilles V
Sideshow 12" Toht
Figure up for Order
02/12/08, 12:15pm
EST
Exclusive Toht with 12" Ark of the Covenant. |
|
The bad guy Indyfans love to hate is now out in 12" figure form from Sideshow Collectibles with the exclusive version
coming with a replica of the Ark of the Covenant. Here's what else Herr
Arnold Toht comes with:
The Toht 12 inch Figure features:
- 12-inch Prometheus male body with
30+ points of articulation
- Authentic likeness of Ronald Lacey
as Major Arnold Ernst Toht
- Shirt
- Pants
- Tie
- Jacket
- Trench coat with belt
- Shoes
- Hat
- Glasses
- Switch-out melted portrait
- Interchangeable gloved and ungloved
hands
- Interchangeable right hand with
medallion burn
- Luger pistol
- Hot Poker
- Collapsable coat hanger with chain
- Display base with Indiana Jones
logo
- Sideshow Exclusive: Polystone Ark
of the Covenant accessory
So if you have any interste in getting
one of these babies head over to SideshowToys.com NOW!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
New Exclusive
Short Round Bust by Gentle Giant
08/12/08, 10:00am
EST
Have
no fear Short Round is here! A new Entertainment Earth exclusive Gentle Giant
Mini-Bust of everyone's favorite orphan... and we ain't talking Little
Orphan Annie. It's Indy's brave sidekick from Indiana Jones and
the Temple of Doom -- Short Round -- and he is up for pre-order
right now and limited to only 2000!
See full details at Entertainment Earth.
Hold on to you potatoes!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Indiana Jones
Trading Card for just $20,000
11/12/08, 11:00am
EST
What's that you say? You have all the Indiana Jones action figures? Had
your fill of Indy Mighty Muggs? Read all there is about the Man with
the Hat? Crystalized your Skull by watching the latest Indy film too
many times? But still need that something special for your collection,
well if you don't want to spend big bucks on Belloq's Mercedes that is
still up for bid how about something a little smaller but still worth a
lot. Head on over to eBay to see what the going rate is for the Topps Tri-signature autograph card - containing
the autographs of George Lucas, Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford.
Definitely something that will be the
center point of any Indyfan collection.
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Topps Tops
Themselves with Indy Masterpieces Cards
16/12/08, 12:29pm
EST
Advert for cards by
J. Scott Campbell. |
|
If you every wanted to see what Indiana Jones and the classic scenes
from the film series would look like when envisioned by the top
illustrators in the field, your wait is over! Topps has just released
their latest and the greatest of the Indiana Jones trading cards with a
set that has Indy looking better than ever before. While previous sets
included original sketch cards by the likes of Randy Martino, Joe
Corroney and the cartoonish style of Jeff Chandler and Michael
"Locoduck" Duron, those were randomly inserted and most fans were left
searching eBay just to get a glimpse of the great art, and maybe even
pay to own them.
This time the card set under the
supervision of Topps "Top Man"; Creative Director; David Waldeck, is a
full out celebration of great artwork by making every card have a
depiction of Indy and his cast of characters. The set touches on
depictions of key film scenes from the Indy tetralogy, and also
expanded universe material from comic books, novels and even some video
games. See Drew Struzan, such as the character portraits of Willie
Scott, that was incorporated into the Temple of Doom B-Sheet,
move onto Toht in the "Nazi Meltdown" to the whimsical "Where's Marion"
by illustrator Laurie B. This set is not only a collection of great
artwork, but produced on high quality, glossy card stock that enhances
the colors in these images.
Indy Masterpieces cards. |
|
In addition, what would a card set
from Topps be without some specialty cards, and the Indiana Jones
Masterpiece set doesn't disappoint with the aforementioned original
sketch cards, a new type with a fold-out, panoramic sketch cards, and
actor autographs. To see some of these without buying every case Topps
put out, just take a search on eBay for "Indiana Jones sketch" and you
will see hundreds of results -- many very pricey. One hopes that Topps
will collect some, if not all of these sketches in a bound collection
somewhere down the road, like they did years ago with the Star Wars
Masterpieces/Visions set. At least an online checklist would be
nice.The set also has printing plate cards and foil etched cards that
can be combined to depict scenes from the Indy movies, rounding it all
out is regular foil and parallel cards.
Each pack includes 7 cards per pack,
I found them for 2.25 per pack, not a bad deal for seeing Indiana Jones
in a whole new way!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Sideshow Premium
Format Indiana Jones Figure
16/12/08, 12:34pm
EST
When
the call came from the United Parcel Service that I would be receiving
a huge package, I knew it was time to clear the decks because the
"Mother of All" Indiana Jones collectibles would be hitting my
doorstep. Yes, since it's pre-order went up last April, and quickly had
the exclusive version, limited to only 1000, disappear faster than a
Nazca cemetery warrior, I had been waiting for this piece. Would it be
worth the wait, more importantly, would it be worth the cost? After
opening the box and taking off the packaging I can say in the words of
Dr. Elsa Schneider, this Indiana Jones Premium Format Figure "doesn't
disappoint".
The craftsmanship is simply amazing!
If you were fortunate to see the prototype in person at a convention or
maybe saw Brandon Kleyla's close-up inspection on his tour of Sideshow
Collectibles in his documentary Indyfans, you knew this one
was going to be something special. While I thought the Sideshow Indiana
Jones 12" figure was something special when I saw all the accessories
and the dead-on sculpt of Harrison Ford, I thought the Sideshow
craftsman had hit their peak -- happily I was wrong.
At first glance when I opened the box
and removed the Styrofoam packing the headless figure looked like Indy
forgot that the Penitent man was humble before God (lost his head, get
it?). But then I saw that there was two heads (hey I hear that's better
than none -- some one stop the bad jokes). One with Fedora (not the guy
from the Last Crusade -- I mean the hat) and one without. I
put on Indy with hat, placed him on the pedestal modeled after the
floor of the Chachapoyan Temple from the Peru scene at the opening of
Raiders (this a Raiders version of Indy) and carefully added
his coiled whip, placed the revolver in the holster (yes the detail
even made sure the bullet holder on the revolver spins) and gave Indy
his precious Idol. What Belloq once took away was now once again his!
The detail like I said is amazing
from the teeth on the zipper to the wood grain on the handle of the
gun. The material onthe leather jacket, shirt, pants and bag are all of
top quality and don't seem thick and clunky because of their reduced
size. Then there is the face sculpt, again detail down to the famous
Harrison Ford scar. In fact, this statue/figure is so lifelike I almost
expected it to ask me for a check for $25 million dollars for the
rights to have it in my home.
Now the big question; "Is it worth the
cost?"
Without a doubt this is the highlight
of my collection and I am proud to display it all. In fact, if you had
to choose a Gentle Giant Indy statue or mini-bust to this, hands down,
spend the extra money and go the Sideshow route. Running a close second
would be Sideshow's recent 12" figure, so if you are budget conscious -
and who isn't in today's economy - I highly recommend the Premium
Indiana Jones Statue from Sideshow Collectibles.
I have posted a bunch of images from
the box to the close-up detail on my Photobucket album and some are
featured along with this article. Also go to Sideshow's website and you
can view some picture of the figure and a 360 degree Flash revolving
display.
So, hopefully Santa or whatever
particular gift-giving, or magical superstitious you hold dear, will be
extra generous to the Indyfans out there and let them unwrap a very
cool Indy this holiday.
Well done, Sideshow!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
Sallah and Shorty
Together at Last
17/12/08, 1:06pm EST
Shorty & Sallah Muggs. |
|
If the arrival of the Sideshow Premium Indiana Jones statue wasn't
impactful enough to my collection (and wallet - OUCH), along comes
another package containing Indy goodies, this time from Entertainment
Earth. It is the Entertainment Earth exclusive Sallah and Short Round
Mighty Muggs from the now cancelled line of Indiana Jones Muggs from
Hasbro. These two are great fun, though Short has his baseball cap
(sans New York Yankee official logo - just an "N") is part of his head,
while Sallah's fez comes off to reveal a receding hairline.
Priced as a set, this pair is a
welcome sight to all those Indyfans who had hoped to see Indy's one
time sidekicks back on screen, even if for a cameo at the wedding scene
in this past summer's Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal
Skull. Though Sallah is sculpted and bears no extra girth than the
other figures, Short Round is appropriately shorter than the other
Mighty Muggs, about the same size as my Yoda Mighty Mugg (I have to get
out more).
So do yourself a favor and order these
two guys and let Hasbro know there was still life left in the Indy
Jones toy line!
Posted by Mitchell
Hallock
The Untold
Adventures of Indiana Jones
22/12/08, 12:44pm
EST
Young
Indiana Jones fans now have something extra to look forward to next
year as our hero makes a return in a series of "middle grade" fiction
books named "Untold Adventures".
The books, due out in May, are named Indiana Jones and the Pyramid
of the Sorcerer and Indiana Jones and the Mystery of Mount
Sinai.
HarperCollins will be publishing them
in the UK, and visit StarWars.com to check out the two novel covers. In
the US, Scholastic will be publishing them with illustrated covers.
Thanks to Mitchell Hallock for the
info.
Posted by Gilles V
|